Why we love Jordan
Jordan is a land of fascinating contrasts, from an ancient wonder of the world to modern architectural cities. It is defined by ancient monuments, desert landscapes, nature reserves and seaside resorts. A expect a friendly local culture that takes pride in providing fine hospitality. This welcoming attitude is deep-rooted within the Jordanian people, going far back to their Bedouin ancestry.
Three of the best places to visit in Jordan.
Petra
Home to the famed archaeological site of Petra, the Nabatean capital dating to around 300 B.C. Set in a narrow valley with tombs, temples and monuments carved into the surrounding pink sandstone cliffs, Petra earns its nickname, the "Rose City." Famous for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system, Petra has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. This is a symbol of Jordan, as well as Jordan's most-visited tourist attraction.
This Nabataean caravan-city, which lies half-hidden in the wind-blown landscape between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea, was an important crossroads between Arabia, Egypt and Syria-Phoenicia. Petra is half-built, half-carved into the rock, and is surrounded by mountains peppered with passages and gorges. It is one of the world's most famous archaeological sites, where ancient Eastern traditions blend with Hellenistic architecture.
Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is a salt lake bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel and the West Bank to the west. It lies in the Jordan Rift Valley, and its main tributary is the Jordan River. Its surface and shores are 1412 feet below sea level, making it the world’s lowest elevation on earth. The sea is called "dead" because its high salinity prevents fish and aquatic plants, from living in it.
The Dead Sea carves its way through the heartland of the Middle East, and geographically speaking the Dead Sea acts as a major border that sits in between Israel and Jordan.
On a visit to the Dead Sea, you can float in the water and cover your body with the mud of the sea as you enjoy the mountainous surroundings.
Amman
Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a modern city with numerous ancient ruins always an incredible site for visitors as it is the birthplace of several great civilizations.
The historic Citadel includes the pillars of the Roman Temple of Hercules and the 8th-century Umayyad Palace complex, known for its grand dome that sits atop Jabal al-Qala’a. Built into a different downtown hillside, the Roman Theater, a 2nd-century stone amphitheater has a 6,000-person capacity.
In Amman one can find traditional souks and open spice and vegetable markets, Western-like nightlife, international cuisine, and sustainable tourism initiatives. Downtown Amman offers travelers a chance to experience local life in the city — eat falafel and hummus in a small alleyway at Hashem’s, explore the King Abdullah I Mosque for an introduction to Islam, and go shopping in the souk.
Lion World Cares
In partnership with the TreadRight Foundation, you will visit the Iraq al-Amir Women’s Cooperative on our Luxury Jordan itinerary where you will see the power of sustainable development in action.
You will learn about the cooperative’s goal to become a sustainable business and the stories of the women who the cooperative continues to help become financially independent.
Suggested Safari: Luxury Jordan