King's Highway Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for King's Highway in Jordan, including information on places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food, accommodation, local culture and customs, safety, transport and nearby destinations.


Introduction to King’s Highway

King’s Highway is a historic road that spans across Jordan, from the north of the country to the south. The highway is known for its stunning scenery, ancient ruins, and cultural significance. It’s considered one of the oldest continuously used communication routes in the world, with evidence of activity dating back to the 8th century BCE. King’s Highway is a must-visit for travellers who want to explore the rich history and diverse landscapes of Jordan.

List of Places to Visit in King’s Highway

From ancient ruins to natural wonders, King’s Highway has plenty of attractions to explore. Here are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Petra: One of the most famous and iconic attractions in Jordan, Petra is an ancient city carved into the rock face. Its rose-coloured sandstone structures and tombs make it an unforgettable destination.
  • Madaba: Known for its impressive mosaics, Madaba is a charming town with significant religious and historical sites, like the Church of St George with its Madaba Map of the Holy Land.
  • Karak Castle: One of the most imposing castles in Jordan, Karak Castle is a must-visit for history buffs, offering plenty of insights into Crusaders’ battles and lifestyles.
  • Dana Biosphere Reserve: A natural reserve covering 320 square km, Dana is known for its mountainous landscapes, scenic canyons and abundant wildlife.
  • Shobak Castle: Another important castle on King’s Highway, Shobak Castle was built in the 12th century and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Crusader Knights.
  • Jerash: One of the largest and most well preserved Roman ruined cities in the Middle East, Jerash offers a vivid window into the Roman era, with impressive structures, temples and amphitheatres still standing in situ.

Natural Attractions of King’s Highway: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wadi Rum: A vast and stunning desert landscape in Jordan’s southern region, Wadi Rum offers a range of outdoor experiences including hiking, camel and jeep tours, rock climbing, and stargazing.
  • Dana to Petra Trek: An ancient caravan route traversing stunning Dana Biosphere Reserve and leading to the magical city of Petra, this multi-day trek is an adventurer’s dream.
  • Ma’in Hot Springs: A hidden gem in King’s Highway, Ma’in Hot Springs has soothing thermal waters, cascading falls and serene landscapes, making it an ideal place for relaxation and wellness.

Hiking/Biking Routes of King’s Highway

For those keen to explore Jordan’s stunning landscapes by foot or bike, here are some trails worth checking out:

  • Jordan Trail: This is a hiking route that spans over 650 kilometers from the north of Jordan to the southernmost tip. King’s Highway section forms a major part of the Jordan Trail.
  • Dana to Feynan: A challenging but rewarding hike, taking you through the stunning Dana Biosphere Reserve, to the traditional Bedouin village of Feynan.
  • Dead Sea Panorama Trail: A long-distance hiking trail offering sweeping panoramic views of the Dead Sea and beyond.
  • Petra by Night: Not technically a hike, but walking along Petra’s winding and dark Siq to reach the iconic Treasury illuminated by thousands of candles is an otherworldly experience.

Best Things to Do in King’s Highway: Activities and Tours

  • Jeep Tour of Wadi Rum: Explore the vast, desert landscapes of Wadi Rum with a 4x4 Jeep tour.
  • Camel Trekking: A classic way to explore the desert, take a camel ride through the sand dunes of Wadi Rum.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: For birds-eye views of Jordan’s beautiful landscapes, take a hot air balloon ride and soar over the stunning views below. Balloon tours run around Wadi Rum.
  • Bedouin Experience: Learn about Bedouin culture by spending a night in a traditional desert camp, Bedouin tent or home in Wadi Rum or Petra area.
  • Cooking Class: Indulge in a culinary experience and learn how to cook traditional Jordanian dishes and bake bread.
  • Hammam Experience: Unwind and rejuvenate at a traditional Jordanian Hammam, the country’s version of a bathhouse, with scrubbing, steaming and relaxation as its main features.

Week-Long Itinerary for King’s Highway

If you’re planning to spend a week in King’s Highway, here is one itinerary worth considering:

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Amman and explore the city's most famous landmarks, like the Roman Theatre.
Day 2 Head to Madaba to explore the town's Byzantine-era mosaics and the famous St. George's Church. On your way, stopover at Mount Nebo for stunning views over the Jordan Valley.
Day 3 Drive to Petra, which requires a 3-hour drive from Madaba, and explore the ancient city.
Day 4 Spend another day exploring Petra, completing some of the best hikes, and enjoying a Petra at Night show.
Day 5 Drive to Wadi Rum and enjoy Bedouin experiences such as camel ride or Jeep tour in the desert.
Day 6 Spend a full day in Wadi Rum – hiking, rock climbing, stargazing or simply relaxing at of the desert camps.
Day 7 Depending on your flight time, you can visit other local destinations such as Little Petra, take part in cooking classes or simply spend time at your hotel.

Food and Drink Scene of King’s Highway

Jordan is known for its rich culinary heritage, and King’s Highway offers some excellent dining options. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mansaf: Considered Jordan’s national dish, Mansaf is lamb cooked in yogurt served on a bed of rice or bulgur.
  • Maqluba: A popular Levantine dish, Maqluba is an upside-down rice dish layered with meat, vegetables and spices.
  • Musakhan: A traditional Palestinian dish popular in Jordan, Musakhan features roasted chicken seasoned with sumac and served with sautéed onion atop pita bread baked in a wood-fired oven.
  • Falafel: Chickpea balls served in pita bread with tomatoes, lettuce, and tahini sauce, falafel is a perfect on-the-go snack.
  • Sweets: Baklava, Mutabbaq, and Knafeh, are some common sweets to indulge.

Local Beverages

  • Tea: Tea is a popular beverage in Jordan and is often served piping hot with sugar and fresh mint leaves.
  • Coffee: Traditionally served Arabic coffee is an excellent way to explore the local culture while enjoying a warm cup of brew.
  • Juices and smoothies: Use of fruits in Jordanian cuisine is abundant. Orange, lemon, and tamerind juices are some of the favourites which are served freshly squeezed.

Where to Stay in King’s Highway: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

King’s Highway offers a wide variety of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget backpacker hostels, and charming guesthouses in ancient towns. Here are some options:

  • Petra Marriott Hotel: A luxury hotel located near the entrance of Petra, offering comfortable rooms, fantastic dining options and indoor and outdoor pools.
  • Seven Wonders Bedouin Camp: An affordable desert camp located in Wadi Rum, offering a truly authentic Bedouin experience with family-style meals and cultural activities.
  • Dana Guesthouse: A nature-friendly accommodation option located within Dana Biosphere Reserve, this guesthouse is perfect for hikers and nature lovers.
  • Spice Guesthouse: A rustic property located centrally in Madaba downtown, offering rooms filled with character, homemade breakfast and unique local cultural experience.

What to Buy in King’s Highway: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Deir Alla handmade ceramics: Handmade and hand-painted ceramic plates, cups, bowls and pots are a popular souvenir from Madaba.
  • Jordanian spice blends: Perfect for foodies, spice blends with unique flavours such as za’atar, sumac and cardamom can be picked up from nearby spice markets.
  • Keffiyeh scarves: Originally worn by Bedouins, Keffiyeh is a traditional headscarf that makes a great souvenir.
  • Dead sea cosmetics: Products such as, mud masks, body lotions, scrubs, and oils made from Dead Sea minerals are sold all over Jordan and make great gifts for loved ones.

Local Culture and Customs of King’s Highway

Jordan is a conservative and predominantly Muslim country. Tourists are expected to dress appropriately, covering shoulders and knees, and respecting the local customs and traditions. Jordanians are known for their hospitality and generosity, and it is not uncommon for visitors to be invited for a cup of tea or a meal at a local home. It is prohibited to drink alcohol in public places such as parks, beaches and streets.

Best Time to Visit King’s Highway

The best time to visit King’s Highway is during the spring season (March to May) and autumn (September to December). The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. During the summer months, temperatures can soar up to 35°C and above, making it difficult to explore outdoor attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of King’s Highway

Do:

  • Dress appropriately.
  • Bargain at markets.
  • Learn basic Arabic phrases.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public places.
  • Take pictures of people without their permission.
  • Smoke in non-smoking areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in King’s Highway

Jordan is considered a safe country to visit, tourists are advised to take the usual precautions while travelling. It is also advised to use licensed taxis and public transport to avoid scams and risks.

Health in King’s Highway

Medical facilities in Jordan are reasonable, but medical treatment can be costly. Visitors are recommended to take out travel insurance which covers medical expenses. Dehydration can be a problem in hot climates, so drinking plenty of water is essential.

Getting to King’s Highway: Transportation options and Logistics

King’s Highway is accessible by multiple modes of transport:

Airports Near King’s Highway

The nearest international airport to King’s Highway is Queen Alia International Airport, located in Amman, the capital of Jordan.

Bus Stations Near King’s Highway

Jett Bus Company is a popular option running from Amman to Petra most frequently. Services are less frequent when going to Madaba or Wadi Rum.

Other Options

Renting a Car is the best option if you want to experience the joy and flexibility of driving along King’s highway on your own. Taxis, both shared and private ones, can be found throughout the region.

How to Get Around in King’s Highway

Getting around on King’s Highway is possible with a private driver or rental car. Alternatively, there is public transportation, taxis and shared taxis such as ‘Service’ taxis operating throughout the region.

Where to Go Next from King’s Highway: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Aqaba: The southernmost city in Jordan located on the Red Sea coast, famous for its beaches, resorts and diving opportunities.
  • Amman: The capital city of Jordan, offering a mix of old and new culture, with ancient ruins and modern attractions.
  • Wadi Mujib: A canyon located near the Dead Sea, known for its hiking trails and waterfalls.
  • Dana Biosphere Reserve: A nature reserve in Jordan known for its diverse landscapes and hiking trails around it.
  • Um Qais: A historic town situated in the northern region of Jordan. It has ancient Greco-Roman ruins, the site of the Biblical city of Gadara.

Conclusion

King’s Highway is a road less travelled but not less incredible. The route presents an opportunity to experience Jordan’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and local culture in a way that’s not easily replicable. From the ancient city of Petra and Wadi Rum’s vast deserts to the traditional towns with authentic local experiences, it’s a trip of a lifetime.



    Dana Nature Reserve
    Kerak
    Madaba