Things to see & do in Jordan

Walking through the 1.2km-long sandstone “corridor” of Al Siq is the classic way to enter Petra, with the astounding sight of the Treasury revealing itself at the end. You might think it would be hard to improve on this experience – after all, Petra is one of the top things to see in Jordan – but the Jordanians thought otherwise. They decided to light 2,000 candles every evening to beautifully illuminate the front of this monument. Returning after dusk to witness this is a travel experience not quickly forgotten, as the rose-coloured rock appears to glow from inside.

Our Travel Team specialist Alice Jewell recalls her visit to Petra:
“Not surprisingly, the crowds at Petra were predominantly focused around the iconic Treasury, but there is so much more to Petra then this. We found it was relatively easy to get away from the larger crowds. We easily spent eight hours walking around the site and could have gone back the next day and done the same – there are so many different parts of the site to explore, or simply sit and take in the beauty of the surroundings.

“We climbed 1,000 steps to reach the monastery and were rewarded with wonderful views and no one else to enjoy those with beside our group. It’s well worth it if you have the time. We left at dusk and I’m pretty sure we were the only visitors left for the day! As we left, we were fortunate enough to catch the site being set up for Petra by night. There was something so special about being there at this time – it was so quiet and peaceful, and I will certainly be going back to experience Petra by night.”

At 400m below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point anywhere on land. Water from the mountains collects in the Dead Sea and then evaporates, concentrating the minerals and salts that are extracted for industry, agriculture cosmetics and health products. This viscous cocktail is many times saltier than sea water – nothing can survive in its depths, hence the name. The Dead Sea is actually an 80km long and 14km wide lake, often very calm, almost mirror-like, which adds to its otherworldliness.

Floating in the Dead Sea is an unusual experience, but is said to be therapeutic, the minerals helping with a range of ailments. Though if you’ve picked up any nicks or scrapes while hiking or canyoning, expect them to sting when you get in. There are many spas and places to stay around the Dead Sea where you can see nothing but water and mountains for miles around. Mud baths that are reputedly excellent for the skin are also popular here, along with other treatments.

With almost 10 percent of its landmass declared an Important Birding Area and a total of 412 species recorded here, Jordan is not the place to forget your binoculars. Dana Reserve, the wetlands of Azraq and Petra itself are all fantastic spots for birdwatching vacations in Jordan, with the Sinai rosefinch, Bonelli’s eagle, steppe buzzard and Syrian serin all waiting to be ticked off the twitcher’s checklist.