Jordan: Petra to the Dead Sea

Second only to Petra in popularity, Jerash is one of the best preserved Roman provincial cities in the world. Settled for over 6,500 years, it flourished under Roman rule as Gerasa, a member of the Decapolis League. Buried in sand for centuries, the city now reveals grand colonnaded streets, towering temples, theaters, fountains, and plazas, offering a vivid glimpse into ancient Roman life in the Middle East.

Perched on a hill in northern Jordan, Ajloun Castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and stands as a masterpiece of medieval Arab architecture. Built in 1184 by one of Saladin’s generals, it was designed to control the region’s iron mines and protect key trade routes between Jordan and Syria. Though Crusaders tried for decades to capture it, the fortress never fell. Today, Ajloun Castle remains one of the Middle East’s most impressive historic landmarks.

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee, Gadara, known today as Umm Qais, boasts an impressive colonnaded street, a vaulted terrace, and the ruins of two theaters, all framed by breathtaking views.

Amman, the capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, has been continuously inhabited for over 7,000 years. Once spread across seven hills and now extending over twenty, the city blends ancient heritage with modern life. Visit the Amman Citadel, home to the Archaeological Museum, Temple of Hercules, Byzantine Church, and Umayyad Palace. Explore the Roman Amphitheater and nearby Folklore Museum, then stroll through downtown’s bustling old markets for a taste of local life.

Step back in time and explore the Desert Castles of Jordan, scattered across the arid landscape east of Amman. Built in the 7th and 8th centuries under the Umayyad dynasty, these fortresses and palaces remain a mystery—historians believe they served as retreats for nobles, hunting lodges, and defensive outposts. Though some have been partially rebuilt, they stand today as remarkable examples of early Islamic art and architecture, offering a glimpse into Jordan’s rich past.

Join your guide for a stroll through Amman’s lively streets and experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Wander along Rainbow Street, a trendy hub filled with cafés and shops, and explore the bustling souk near the Husseini Mosque, where the sounds and scents of local life fill the air.

Madaba is widely known for its unparalleled Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, making it one of the most memorable cities in the Holy Land. Hundreds of exquisite stone mosaics fill the churches and homes in the city. Most notably, you will see the floor of the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint George, which is covered with a 6th century Mosaic Map. Consisting of two million pieces of brilliantly colored local stone this map depicts the hills, valleys, homes, towns, and villages of Jerusalem. A masterpiece, to say the least!

According to Christian and Jewish tradition, Mount Nebo is where Moses first saw the Promised Land and where he was later buried. At its highest point, Syagha, archaeologists uncovered a 4th-century church built to honor his memory. Visitors can see the remains of the ancient structure, including hollowed tombs and beautifully preserved mosaic floors. One of Jordan’s most sacred sites, Pope John Paul II visited in 2000 and planted an olive tree beside the Byzantine chapel, symbolizing peace.

Um er-Rasas began as a Roman military camp and later developed into a thriving town between the 5th and 9th centuries. The site preserves traces of Roman, Byzantine, and early Muslim history, including a fortified camp and 16 churches, some with remarkably well-preserved mosaic floors. The Church of Saint Stephen is especially notable for its detailed map depicting nearby towns. Two square towers, believed to have been used by stylite monks, still stand amid the ruins, surrounded by remnants of ancient farms in the desert landscape.

Before stepping into the magnificent Kerak Castle, take a moment to study the map at the entrance to better understand its rich history and the people who once lived here. Bring a flashlight—its dark tunnels and winding passageways are full of intrigue. Though the present castle dates to the 12th century, Kerak’s origins reach far deeper. The Bible records the King of Israel and his allies seizing King Mesha in the fortress of Kir Heres, the ancient name for today’s Kerak.

Saddle up an Arabian horse and ride along scenic trails to the ancient city of Petra. For safety reasons, weight restrictions apply to this activity.

Spend a day exploring Petra, the rose-red city known as the Eighth Wonder of the World for its advanced culture, grand architecture, and ingenious system of dams and water channels. Lost to the West for nearly 300 years before its rediscovery, Petra reveals wonders like Bab Al Siq, with its towering Djinn blocks, and the Siq, a dramatic passage leading to the magnificent Treasury (Al Khazna). Standing nearly 40 meters high, its intricate carvings showcase Nabataean artistry, while the nearby Dam once protected the city from flooding.

Aqaba is a lively coastal city showcasing some of the best Jordan has to offer. Visitors come to enjoy scuba diving, glass-bottom boat rides, and relaxing on soft beaches along the calm Red Sea. For over 5,000 years, Aqaba has been a vital trading port linking Asia, Europe, and Africa. It’s also believed to be home to the world’s first church, adding to the city’s fascinating blend of history, culture, and seaside charm.

The Dana Biosphere Reserve is Jordan’s largest nature reserve, spanning more than 300 square kilometers and encompassing all four of the Kingdom’s bio-geographical zones. From the high cliffs rising 1,500 meters in the east to the deep canyons descending toward Wadi Araba, Dana is both biologically and historically rich. It’s one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited regions, featuring Neolithic villages, Roman aqueducts, and Byzantine churches. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views from the Dana Guesthouse or stay at the Rummana Campsite, surrounded by rare wildlife and dramatic landscapes.

Spend a day at one of the world’s most remarkable natural wonders, the Dead Sea. Known for its extreme salinity, four times saltier than regular seawater, it supports no marine life, hence its name. Floating effortlessly on its dense, mineral-rich waters is a truly unique experience and one of Jordan’s must-do activities.