Jordan
Entering Jordan is akin to opening an ancient treasure chest: it is full of natural and archaeological treasures just waiting to be discovered. Remnants of ancient civilisations lie hidden in the rock-hewn city of Petra and scattered along the King’s Highway; while Bedouin tribes still live across the dusty sands of Wadi Rum.
Wadi Rum
Described by T.E. Lawrence as ‘vast, echoing and Godlike’, the red and orange sands of Wadi Rum give way to towering rock formations 1700 m high. Many Bedouin tribes still live among Wadi Rum’s mountains in their unmistakable goat-hair tents. Day trips into the desert are possible from nearby Petra. For the more adventurous, camping under the stars in Bedouin tents offers an insight into traditional desert life.
HIGHLIGHTS: Camel rides, four-wheel drive safaris, hiking.
Kerak Castle
On the pilgrimage route south along the King’s Highway lies Kerak, a small, bustling market town encircled by large stone walls. Sitting atop a rocky plateau overlooking the town is the most impressive Crusader castle in the whole of Jordan, Kerak Castle. It is easy to envision battles taking place here thousands of years ago as you wander through crumbling courtyards, stone vaults and arched corridors.
HIGHLIGHTS: Archaeological tours. Dana Nature Reserve
Dana Nature Reserve is the largest nature reserve in Jordan spanning over 300 sq km. The chain of valleys and mountains sweeps from the heights of the Rift Valley down to the deserts of Wadi Araba. Gentle hiking trails wind through the quiet and barren sandstone hills, passing Neolithic villages, Byzantine churches and ancient copper mines. Friendly local Bedouins can often be seen herding their goats along the valleys.
HIGHLIGHTS: Hiking. 110
The Dead Sea
Fed by the River Jordan buried some 400 m below sea level, the Dead Sea takes its name from the water’s high level of salt content. Although no marine life can survive here, the sea’s healing properties are legendary: lather yourself in mud found on the beaches and take a dip in the water – you will be sure to float on the surface!
HIGHLIGHTS: Swimming, spa treatments.
Petra
Frequently referred to as the Rose Red City for the colour of the rock, Petra was cleverly carved into the desert cliffs by the Nabateans. Hidden from sight for about 1000 years, the ancient city is now widely recognised as a national wonder. Enter through the narrow gorge of the Siq to discover the Treasury looming above you; wind your way through the plethora of tombs, temples and ruins to the Monastery.
HIGHLIGHTS: Walking tours, the Treasury by candle-light, hiking.
Amman and nearby towns
Amman may have only been the capital since 1921, but the majestic citadel and the hillside Roman Theatre are evidence of its ancient beginnings. North of Amman are the extensive remains of Jordan’s best preserved Greco-Roman city, Jerash. A short distance south is Madaba, home to the celebrated 6th-century mosaic Map of the Holy Land. Just outside the city stands Mount Nebo, the most popular of Jordan’s holy sites and the legendary burial site of Moses.
HIGHLIGHTS: Guided history tours.
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