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Jordan travel guide

Petra, Jordan

Find out what to see and do when travelling or backpacking around Jordan.

Jordan highlights

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Petra, Jordan
Petra
Jordan’s most famous attraction, this ancient city carved into the sandstone rock is definitely worth a visit. Do spend a couple of days hiking to see the many temples, tombs and amazing carvings.
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Aqaba, Jordan
Aqaba
This Red Sea resort is the perfect place to unwind with some snorkelling or scuba diving amongst the coral reefs. The backdrop of the desert and mountains is dramatic and also offers some decent hiking opportunities.
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Jerash, Jordan
Jerash
Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Middle-East. You can get a feel for Roman life by visiting the Temple of Artemis, the Cardo and Hadrian’s Arch all situated within the ancient city walls.
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The Dead Sea, Jordan
The Dead Sea
Jordan shares the Dead Sea with Israel and visitors can float in the extremely salty water and experience a mineral-rich mud bath at the lowest point on earth.
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Wadi Rum, Jordan
Wadi Rum
This desert valley in southern Jordan is still home to nomadic Bedouin tribes and Lawrence of Arabia spent time here during the First World War. Take an organised hike or jeep trip amongst the imposing granite cliffs and mountains to fully experience this isolated area.
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Karakr, Jordan
Karak
This magnificent Crusader castle still stands on a hill overlooking the old town. There are many passages and tunnels within the depths of the castle that are well worth a visit.
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Main travellers routes

  • Jordan’s main international airport is based near Amman and receives flights from many European cities. It is also possible to take a domestic flight between Amman and Aqaba.
  • It is possible to enter Jordan by bus from Israel, Syria and Saudi Arabia but crossing through the borders can be extremely time-consuming.
  • There is a good bus network between the larger towns and this is supplemented by minibuses for less popular connections.
  • A ferry service runs between the port of Aqaba and Nuweiba in Egypt and only takes about an hour and also means you don’t then have to go in and out of Israel.
  • Jordan has land borders with Israel, Syria, Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

Capital and main cities

  • Amman is the capital
  • Major cities are Aqaba, Irbid and Zarqa.

Languages

  • Arabic
  • English is spoken in major tourist and urban areas.
  • Some French and German

Currency

Foreign Office Advice

Flights and accommodation

Tours and day trips in Jordan

Next: Planning a trip to Jordan

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