Northern Jordan Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich Northern Jordan. Follow this guide to discover the top attractions, best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Northern Jordan

Jordan’s Northern Region is a cultural and natural wonderland. Located in the country’s northern part, it boasts archaeological sites, mountains, canyons, forests, and hot springs that offer visitors unique and unforgettable experiences. Whether you are an adventure seeker or just someone who enjoys learning about history and culture, you will find North Jordan a destination that will fulfill your dream.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Jordan

Make sure to not miss these must-visit attractions in Northern Jordan.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Jerash: Known as the “Pompeii of the East”, Jerash is home to a collection of Greco-Roman ruins that are believed to be the best preserved in the Middle East. The site includes a huge hippodrome, the Temple of Artemis, and Hadrian’s Arch among others.
  2. Ajloun Castle: A 12th-century castle that was built by the nephew of the great Islamic warrior Salah al-Din. The castle helped protect the region against Crusader and Mongol invasions and offers stunning views of the surroundings.
  3. Umm Qais: An ancient city that was once part of the Decapolis, a group of 10 cities that enjoyed a high degree of autonomy under Roman rule. The site includes a Roman theater, a mausoleum, and a basilica.

Natural Attractions of Northern Jordan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Wadi Rum: One of the most visually stunning deserts in the world. The sheer cliffs of the red sand the mountains tower above the desert U-shaped valleys is a sight to behold. It’s a great place to camp and enjoy stargazing tours, 4x4 jeep safaris, and hikes.
  2. Dana Biosphere Reserve: A nature reserve located in southern Jordan. It has become a popular destination for eco-travelers, hikers, and bird-watching enthusiasts. It is home to 800 species of plants, 449 species of animals such as the Syrian wolf and the leopard, and a unique bedouin culture that has lived in Jordan for centuries.
  3. Ma’in Hot Springs: A series of hot natural pools fed by thermal springs that offer relaxing and therapeutic treatments for visitors. The pools lie in the middle of a breathtaking mountainous landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Jordan

  1. The Jordan Trail: An 8-day hike stretching 650km from Umm Qais in the north all the way to the southern tip of Aqaba through Northern Jordan’s mountains, wadis, and desert landscapes.
  2. Wadi Rum Jeep tours: Take a 4x4 jeep to explore the scenic sand dunes, the mountain valley, and the natural rock formations of Wadi Rum.
  3. Ajloun Bicycle Route: A kid-friendly route that brings your family through the rolling hills and forests of Ajloun taking in the scenery and exploring the rural life of the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Northern Jordan: Activities and Tours

  1. Petra by night: Visit the Nabatean city of Petra at night, where the canyon walls are lit up with candlelight.
  2. Cooking classes: Learn how to cook traditional Jordanian food like mansaf, musakhan, and falafel with local cooks, and enjoy your meal after the class.
  3. Hammamat Ma’in Spa: Relax in the natural hot springs water pools and be pampered with spa treatments and massages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Jordan

Day Activity
1 Visit Jerash and Ajloun Castle
2 Explore the Wadi Rum
3 Take a 4x4 jeep tour of the Wadi Rum desert
4 Visit the natural hot springs of Hammamat Ma’in
5 Experience Petra by Night
6 See the ancient ruins of Umm Qais
7 Enjoy the stunning beauty of Dana Biosphere Reserve

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Jordan

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Mansaf: A traditional Jordanian dish made with lamb, yogurt sauce, and rice. Often served during special occasions
  2. Musakhan: A local dish made with baked chicken, sumac, onions, and bread. A perfect picnic dish.
  3. Falafel: Small chickpea balls typically served in a pita with humus, tahini sauce, and pickled vegetables.

Local Beverages

  1. Mint tea (shay): A sweetened tea made with fresh mint that you can find almost everywhere, from restaurants to homes of local families.
  2. Jallab: A sweet and refreshing drink made with dates, grape molasses, and rose water that is enjoyed during Ramadan fasting or at the end of a fast-breaking meal.
  3. Arak: A traditional anise-flavored spirit that is usually served with mezze.

Where to Stay in Northern Jordan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Beit Al Fannan Guesthouse: Located in the ancient city of Jerash, the guesthouse is designed to give guests a taste of traditional Jordanian life. The rooms are well-appointed and have a private bath, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and hot water.
  2. Rum Stars Camp: A Bedouin camp located in Wadi Rum that offers traditional camel trekking and stargazing at night.
  3. Ajloun Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel that provides a warm Bedouin hospitality with stunning views of Ajloun Forest Reserve.

What to Buy in Northern Jordan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Dead Sea products: From bath salts to mud masks, the mineral-rich clay from the Dead Sea has been used for centuries for its health and beauty benefits.
  2. Nabatean Jewelry: Handmade crafts using traditional silverwork techniques that were handed down through generations. You can find them in the markets in Petra and Amman.
  3. Traditional headscarves (keffiyeh): A vibrant and multi-purpose headscarf that is commonly worn by men in the Middle East. A must-have souvenir of Jordan.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Jordan

  1. Dress code: Jordan is a conservative country, and visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  2. Greetings: Jordanians are known for being welcoming and friendly, so expect a handshake and a warm greeting when you meet people.
  3. Currency: The Jordanian dinar is the official currency, and US dollars are widely accepted. Visitors should keep cash on hand as some places won’t accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit Northern Jordan

The best time to visit Northern Jordan is between March and May and between September and November when the weather is mild, the skies are clear, and the flowers are in full bloom. Summers in Northern Jordan can be unbearably hot, and winters can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Jordan

Do:

  1. Learn basic Arabic phrases like “marhaba” (hello), “shukran” (thank you), and “allaf watasleem” (goodbye).
  2. Respect local customs and dress modestly.
  3. Try to join a Bedouin family to experience their culture and hospitality.

Don’t:

  1. Public displays of affection (PDA) are frowned upon, be respectful of local cultures.
  2. Bring alcohol to Muslim holy areas or during Ramadan.
  3. Swim in natural hot springs that are not designed for swimming.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern Jordan

Northern Jordan is generally safe to visit, with rare cases of petty theft reported. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in the less-populated areas.

Health in Northern Jordan

Visitors should ensure that they are up-to-date on all vaccines recommended by their home country’s health department and should take their health insurance card and malaria prophylaxis if recommended by the doctor.

Getting to Northern Jordan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northern Jordan

  1. Queen Alia International Airport (AMM): Located near Amman, Jordan’s capital city.
  2. King Hussein International Airport (AQJ): Located in Aqaba, southern Jordan.

Bus Stations Near Northern Jordan

  1. Amman Tabarbour Bus Station: Located in the capital city of Amman.
  2. Northern Bus Station: Located in Irbid, 15 kilometers southeast of the Syrian border.

Other Options

  1. Taxis: Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or called for hire.
  2. Car rental: Visitors can rent cars from any major airport or city in Jordan.

How to Get Around in Northern Jordan

Taxis, buses, and rental cars are the most common ways to explore Northern Jordan. Buses are the most affordable and efficient way to travel around cities and towns. Taxis are readily available and cost-effective for short distances. Rental cars are a great option for those who want to explore off-the-beaten-track destinations independently.

Where to Go Next from Northern Jordan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Visit the Dead Sea, which is located 80 km west of Amman.
  2. Explore the ancient city of Petra, which is located 227km south of Amman.
  3. Visit the Red Sea, which is located 30km south of Aqaba, and enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling or boat tours.

Conclusion

Northern Jordan offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a beautiful part of the Middle East that is steeped in rich culture and history. With its breathtaking landscapes, friendly locals, and unforgettable attractions, it is no wonder why Northern Jordan is becoming a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.

Al-Maghtas Al-Maghtas


    Irbid
    Jerash
    Pella
    Zarqa