Zarqa Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about Zarqa, including the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, what to buy, and local culture and customs.


Introduction to Zarqa

Zarqa, located in Northern Jordan, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Nestled in the Middle East, Zarqa is a city of captivating beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, which make for a unique travel experience.

List of Places to Visit in Zarqa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Zarqa Museum: A must-see for history buffs, it features a collection of historical, cultural, and archaeological artifacts.
  • Abu Darweesh Mosque: One of the oldest and most significant mosques in the city, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.
  • Dar Al-‘Ulum: A historical school established in 1922, which now serves as a cultural center, showcasing the lives and work of famous scholars.

Natural Attractions of Zarqa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Azraq Wetland Reserve: A unique desert oasis, home to over 100 bird species, several wildlife species, and historical archaeological sites. It’s ideal for bird watching, hiking, and exploring the desert.
  • Al-Sailiya Nature Reserve: A protected forest reserve that’s a haven for trekkers, bikers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Al-Omari Mosque Park: A picturesque park, with plenty of shaded areas where visitors can enjoy a picnic, relax, or stroll around the park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zarqa

  • Al-Sailiya Nature Reserve: Offers excellent hiking and biking routes across its various terrains, along with scenic views, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
  • Wadi Al-Yabis: A perfect destination for hikers, with picturesque landscapes and stunning vistas, it’s a popular hiking spot among locals and visitors alike.
  • Al-Ruwayshid: An off-road biking trail that offers rugged terrain, steep hills, and a thrilling biking experience for adventure junkies.

Best Things to Do in Zarqa: Activities and Tours

  • Desert Safari: Visitors can embark on a thrilling desert safari tour, which includes camel ride, sandboarding, and Bedouin-style dinner under the stars.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: A unique way to see the city from above, visitors can book a hot air balloon ride that offers aerial views of the landscape and the city.
  • Arabic Calligraphy Workshop: Visitors can get an insight into the art of Arabic calligraphy and create their own artwork under the guidance of a local expert.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zarqa

Day 1-2: Visit historical sites and museums such as Zarqa Museum and Abu Darweesh Mosque Day 3-4: Explore the natural attractions, including Azraq Wetland Reserve and Al-Sailiya Nature Reserve Day 5: Take a hot air balloon ride to see the city from above Day 6: Experience a desert safari tour and try sandboarding Day 7: Attend an Arabic calligraphy workshop and bring home a unique souvenir.

Food and Drink Scene of Zarqa

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mansaf: This national dish of Jordan features lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce and served with rice or bread.
  • Maklouba: A flavorful rice dish with layers of meat, vegetables, and spices that’s served upside down.
  • Fattah: A dish of meat, chickpeas, and yogurt sauce on top of croutons or bread, which is served in special occasions.

Local Beverages

  • Tea: A hot cup of tea is a ubiquitous drink in Jordan, and visitors can enjoy a cup of mint tea or Arabic coffee.
  • Laban: A traditional drink made of yogurt, salt, and water served cold, and it goes well with spicy food.
  • Arak: A popular liquor made of anise, distilled grapes, and sugar, that’s best enjoyed with meze dishes.

Where to Stay in Zarqa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Al Saraya Hotel: A four-star hotel centrally located in Zarqa, with modern amenities and excellent customer service.
  • Aqaba Gate Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel in downtown Zarqa that provides dormitory-style accommodation and caters to backpackers and travelers.
  • Al Hamra Palace Hotel: A luxury hotel that offers a unique blend of traditional and modern architecture and features upscale amenities.

What to Buy in Zarqa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Dates: Jordan is known for its high-quality dates, and visitors can find them in the traditional markets or souks.
  • Handicrafts: Visitors can buy handmade pottery, baskets, and other traditional handicrafts in Zarqa’s artisan shops.
  • Spices: Zarqa’s markets are a treasure trove of exotic spices, including herbs, dried fruits, and nuts.

Local Culture and Customs of Zarqa

The local culture of Zarqa is deeply rooted in Arab traditions and customs. Visitors should dress modestly and respect the locals’ values and beliefs. It’s customary to remove shoes before entering a mosque, and visitors should avoid eating during the holy month of Ramadan when Muslims fast from dawn to dusk.

Best Time to Visit Zarqa

The best time to visit Zarqa is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zarqa

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respectfully.
  • Learn a few Arabic words to communicate with the locals.
  • Try the local cuisine and learn about the culture.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water or eat street food.
  • Display public affection.
  • Engage in political discussions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zarqa

Zarqa is a safe city, and visitors should take standard safety precautions, such as avoiding dark alleys or isolated places after dark and keeping their belongings safe.

Health in Zarqa

Visitors should drink bottled water and receive the required vaccinations before traveling to Jordan.

Getting to Zarqa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Zarqa

  • Queen Alia International Airport (AMM): The primary airport in Jordan, located around 40 km south of Zarqa.

Bus Stations Near Zarqa

  • North Bus Station: The primary bus station in Amman, which operates several buses and shared taxis to Zarqa.

Other Options

Visitors can take a taxi or book a private car from Amman, which takes around 30-45 minutes to reach Zarqa, depending on traffic conditions.

How to Get Around in Zarqa

Visitors can take a taxi, shared taxis, or public buses to get around Zarqa, depending on their budget and convenience.

Where to Go Next from Zarqa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Amman: The capital city is located around 30 km to the south of Zarqa and offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and entertainment options for visitors.
  • Jerash: A historical city located around 50 km north of Zarqa and known for its well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins that showcase the city’s rich history.
  • Ajloun: A city located around 40 km north of Zarqa that boasts a medieval castle, nature reserves, and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Zarqa is a fascinating city in Northern Jordan and offers something for every type of traveler. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and local cuisine, Zarqa is a city that’s worth exploring in the Middle East.

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