If Jordan were a film, Petra would be the Oscar-winning lead actor, but there’s a supporting cast you really shouldn’t miss. And who better to guide us through the highlights than H.E. Makram Mustafa Al-Qaisi, Jordan’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities? From cinematic landscapes to local culinary delights, here’s why Jordan deserves a spot on your bucket list.
The Classics: Petra, Wadi Rum, and Beyond
Jordan’s star attractions are timeless for a reason. Petra’s rose-red rock facades, carved by the Nabataeans, remain one of the world’s most iconic destinations. But as the Minister stresses, it’s not just about admiring the monuments—it’s about preserving them.
“We are introducing timed slots at Petra to better manage crowds,” Al-Qaisi explains. “Electric buses and new hiking trails will reduce environmental impact and provide visitors with a more immersive experience.”
Less than 25% of Petra has been uncovered, leaving endless opportunities for discovery, and there’s no shortage of ways to experience this ancient wonder. Hike up 800 steps to the Monastery (Al-Deir) for views as grand as the monument itself, or explore the Royal Tombs, carved into cliffs with a detail that rivals any modern masterpiece. For a fresh perspective, trek to the High Place of Sacrifice, where sweeping vistas reward every step.
Petra isn’t just about daytime exploration either. Petra by Night transforms the site into something almost mythical, with the Siq and Treasury illuminated by thousands of candles. If history isn’t enough to captivate, the atmosphere surely will.
“Hiking and trekking through the uncovered areas of Petra offer a more intimate connection with its history, while our sustainability measures, like electric buses, aim to protect this treasure for future generations,”Al-Qaisi adds.
But then, there is also Wadi Rum. This Mars-like desert doesn’t just look like it belongs in a sci-fi blockbuster—it’s actually starred in them. From The Martian to Dune, Wadi Rum has dazzled filmmakers and adventurers alike. Yet, beyond its Hollywood glow, it offers a mix of serenity and adrenaline that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s stargazing under an ocean of constellations or carving through the dunes on a jeep safari, Wadi Rum is the ultimate playground for dreamers and daredevils alike.
“Jordan’s diversity of landscapes makes it a filmmaker’s dream,” says Al-Qaisi. “And by hosting productions, we directly support our local communities and showcase Jordan’s unmatched beauty to the world.”
For those looking to stretch their legs, the newly minted Wadi Rum Trail is a 120-kilometre journey through ancient trade paths, serving up endless panoramas. Prefer your adventure with a touch of tradition? Try a camel or horseback ride—quintessential Bedouin style.
Hidden Gems: More Than Meets the Eye
While Petra and Wadi Rum are Jordan’s headliners, the country’s lesser-known sites are no less extraordinary, as the Minister is keen to point out.
“Sites like Umm ar-Rasas and Sayyid Poseyid deserve just as much attention,” Al-Qaisi says. “They represent the depth of Jordan’s history and diversity, which we are working hard to promote internationally.”
Umm ar-Rasas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a fascinating blend of Nabataean, Roman, and Byzantine architecture. Its mosaics, particularly those in the Church of St. Stephen, are a masterclass in artistry, depicting regional towns in stunning detail. “It’s an incredible site that showcases how different civilisations left their mark on Jordan,” the Minister adds.
Equally captivating is Sayyid Poseyid, an Umayyad desert palace adorned with 99 frescoes. These vivid paintings capture the vibrancy of 8th-century life, from hunting scenes to depictions of musicians and courtly life.
“These frescoes are among the finest examples of early Islamic art, and we’re committed to ensuring they gain the recognition they deserve,” Al-Qaisi explains.
Culinary Journeys Along the Jordan Trail
The Jordan Trail is a 650-kilometre trek that’s perfect for adventure-seekers and food lovers. It’s a great way to eat, explore, and connect with Jordan’s heart and soul.
“Visitors on the trail interact with small businesses, taste traditional dishes, and experience local hospitality,” says Al-Qaisi. “This directly benefits our communities while offering tourists a truly unique experience.”
This immersive cultural journey winds through 52 villages and towns, each offering a distinct flavour of Jordanian life. In the north, the lush greenery inspires dishes bursting with vibrant herbs and farm-fresh vegetables. As you make your way south, the cuisine grows heartier, with rich, shepherd-inspired meals and yogurt so thick and tangy it’s practically a meal in itself.
For hands-on foodies, Petra Kitchen offers the chance to learn local recipes like baba ganoush and lentil soup from chefs who turn cooking into a communal experience. Meanwhile, Beit Khairat Souf in Jerash is a must-stop for warm bread, garden-fresh produce, and the satisfaction of supporting a women-led social enterprise.
Creativity and Film Tourism
Jordan’s film industry is as dynamic as its landscapes. From Lawrence of Arabia to Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and recent hits like Dune, the country’s terrain has become a global cinematic icon. The Royal Film Commission supports these productions, fostering local jobs and skills.
“Our landscapes aren’t just beautiful—they’re versatile,” the Minister explains. “This versatility draws filmmakers from all over the world, helping our local economy thrive.”
Jordan’s diverse landscapes not only captivate filmmakers but also offer tourists a unique opportunity to explore the real-world settings of their favorite films.Several tour operators specialize in film location tours. For instance, Discovery Circle Tours offers packages that visit sites from films like The Hurt Locker and Theeb.
Beyond its cinematic landscapes, Jordan plays host to an impressive lineup of cultural festivals and modern events, each adding a unique layer to its global appeal.
The Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, held annually in the ancient city of Jerash, transforms the archaeological site into a stage for traditional music, theatre, and dance. It’s a celebration of Jordanian and Arab heritage that draws artists and audiences from across the region.
And then there’s Gumball 3000, the celebrity-studded supercar rally that roared into Jordan for the first time in 2023. Known for its glamorous blend of motorsport, music, and luxury lifestyle, Gumball 3000 saw the country’s diverse terrain and vibrant cities take centre stage for an international audience.
“Hosting events like Gumball 3000 shows the world a different side of Jordan—safe, vibrant, and full of potential,” Al-Qaisi explains. “It’s also an opportunity to attract luxury tourism and adventure travellers, giving them a taste of Jordan’s diverse offerings, from its historic sites to its modern cultural experiences.”
Faith-Based Tourism
For spiritual travellers, Jordan offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with sacred history. The Baptism Site of Jesus Christ (Al-Maghtas), a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the east bank of the Jordan River, is believed to be the exact location where John the Baptist baptised Jesus. Recognised by the Vatican and visited by multiple Popes, the site continues to draw pilgrims from around the world.
Nearby, Mount Nebo offers a breathtaking view of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and, on a clear day, even Jerusalem. According to tradition, this is where Moses saw the Promised Land before his death—a moment immortalised in Christian and Jewish scripture.
“Faith-based tourism connects visitors with our history on a deeper level,” notes Al-Qaisi. “These sites connect visitors with our history and traditions on a profound level.”
Other significant religious sites include the Church of St. George in Madaba, home to the famous 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land, and Lot’s Cave, believed to be the refuge of the biblical Lot. Together, these landmarks create a spiritual itinerary that bridges history, faith, and culture.
Biodiversity Tourism
For those who find their spirituality in nature, Jordan’s ecological offerings are equally compelling. The Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth at 400 metres below sea level, is a natural wonder known for its mineral-rich waters and therapeutic mud. Its healing properties attract visitors seeking both relaxation and rejuvenation.
The Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan’s largest nature reserve, spans four distinct bio-geographical zones, supporting an astonishing diversity of plant and animal life. Hiking trails like the Wadi Dana Trail offer nature enthusiasts the chance to encounter endangered species like the Nubian ibex while taking in dramatic canyon views.
“Jordan is unique. You can go from 400 metres below sea level to 800 metres above in under 20 minutes,” says Al-Qaisi, highlighting the country’s dramatic biodiversity.
Adventurers can also explore Wadi Mujib, a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve with dramatic sandstone gorges and the thrilling Mujib Siq Trail. For those seeking a quieter connection with nature, the Azraq Wetland Reserve is a bird-watcher’s paradise, providing sanctuary for migratory species crossing continents.
H.E. Makram Mustafa Al-Qaisi sums it up:
“Jordan’s heritage, creativity, and resilience make it a truly unique destination. Whether you’re exploring Petra, hiking the Jordan Trail, or attending a cultural festival, there’s something here for everyone.”
So why wait? Let the Minister’s advice be your ultimate insider’s guide to exploring this extraordinary country.
For up-to-date information on travelling to Jordan, visit https://visitjordan.com/
Photos: courtesy of Jordan Tourism Board
