Jordan

Situated on the east bank of the Jordan River is the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. It is known for its nature reserves, ancient monuments and the astonishing Dead Sea. It is also home to the most visited and famous archaeological site of Petra, called the “Rose City” due to its sandstone cliffs. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World and was once inhabited by the Nabateans. The Al-Siq is the awe inspiring ancient entrance to the city, which leads to the Treasury, Temples and Tombs.

Wadi Rum is an adventurer’s heaven with infinite golden coloured sands, rocky canyons and stellar starry skies. Wadi Rum's offer its visitors the opportunity for camel tours and overnight stays in the local Bedouin Camps. They have also been the site for several Hollywood films including the famous Lawrence of Arabia.

Amman is the modern capital city of Jordan, with so much historical significance to explore including the Roman Theatre, the most famous archaeological site located in the heart of the downtown area. There is also the Citadel and the Temple of Hercules, which is situated on the city’s highest hill overlooking the capital.

One of the country’s largest and most compelling Roman sites is the ancient city of Jerash with its Colonnaded Street paved with original stones. There are also squares, public baths and Temples including the Temple of Artemis, which was built between 150-170 CE and devoted to the revered goddess Artemis. It is one of the most striking of sites in Jerash.

The ancient town of Madaba, located southwest of Amman, is famously known for the 6th Century CE Mosaic Map of the Holy Land, which is assembled on the floor in the 19th Century Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. The map was originally made up of over two million mosaic pieces, unfortunately less than one third have survived until today. The Madaba Archaeological Park today preserves the mosaic rich Church of the Virgin Mary with many artefacts from past eras.

Located only 10 kms from Madaba lies Mount Nebo, one of the holiest sites in the country and where it is believed Moses first saw the Promise Land. It is also said to be the burial site of Moses even if it has never actually been proven. Pilgrims from all over the world travel to Mount Nebo to visit the small Church, which displays Byzantine mosaics. From the top of the hill you will have some wonderful views overlooking the Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley.

Another truly amazing experience in the middle of the desert is the thermal mineral Ma’in Hot Springs, a natural spa sitting at approximately 264 metres below sea level. The water is believed to assist skin conditions and people with joint pain due to its water being rich in magnesium, calcium and potassium.

The Jordan Valley is where the River Jordan exits from the north of the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea in the south. This valley is surrounded by mountains with many sumptuous tropical fruit farms including both dates and bananas farms.

At 431 metres below sea level and the lowest dry portion of land on earth, the Dead Sea encompasses 26 kms of coastline and is situated along Jordan’s western border meeting with the Red Sea in the south west. It has exceptional salty water, which is mineral rich and attracts visitors from all over the world for its therapeutic waters where you can float on your back and indulge in the black mud. The Red Sea port city of Aqaba is 26 kms of crystal clear waters and nice warm temperatures making it an ideal holiday hotspot in Jordan. It is also within reach for a day trip to Petra and the Wadi Rum desert sites. Aqaba is known for its watersport activities, fresh seafood and lively markets.

Wadi Mujib hovers over the Mujib River, which eventually flows into the Dead Sea. This dazzling canyon stretches over 70 kms and is believed to be where Moses walked through the chasm, once known as the Arnon Valley. Here you can enjoy all types of outdoor activities including canyoning, hiking, and abseiling.