Journey Around Jordan - Visitor's Guide to Trips, Hikes, Events, and Festivals around Jordan Summer 2014
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Journey Around Jordan Visitor’s Guide to Trips, Hikes, Events, and Festivals around Jordan Summer 2014
Welcome to Jordan!
We at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities welcome you to the Hashemite Kingdom of
Jordan.
To assist you in organizing your trips around Jordan, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
has compiled this brochure that should serve as your guide to what to do and where to
go. We have also suggested a number of itineraries to help you in planning your trips and
included a calendar of activities and festivals that are happening around the country.
We hope your stay will be an enjoyable one!
Some contacts to remember:
• Police: 911
• Hotline/Tourism Police: 117777, www.tourist-police.psd.gov.jo
• Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities: www.tourism.jo
• Jordan Tourism Board: www.visitjordan.com
• Jordan Society of Tourism and Travel Agents: www.jsta.org.jo
• Ministry of Culture: www.culture.gov.jo
• Jordan Hotel Association: johotels.org
• Jordan Restaurant Association: www.jra.jo
• Aqaba Tourism official website: www.aqaba.jo
• Nature Reserves, The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature: www.rscn.org.jo
1
“Al Urdon Ahla” Visitors Program Tourist Agents Phone Numbers
A Summer 2014 Calendar for Arab Visitors
Ajam )05( 3960600 (06) 5665666
Al Urdon Ahla (Arabic for “Jordan is Beautiful” ) is a budget-friendly program designed to
Al Amal 0776677707 (05) 3960005
bring a unique tourism experience to individuals as well as the whole family.
Oscar 0796905348 )06( 5528904
We are happy to invite you to join one or more of these pre-programmed trips around
Jordan. The trips are varied and are family friendly. Whether you are interested in exploring Al Akhtabout 0796631200 )06( 5858444
the wondrous sites of Jordan alone or with a group of friends, or taking your family for an Titanic 0799714444 (06) 5639222
exciting trip, these all-inclusive trips are for you!
Dar Al Salam 0797147707 (06) 5858160
To enjoy one of the Al Urdon Ahla full-day visits, all you need to do is book your space,
through one of the listed tourist agents, on one of many shuttles heading towards the Dalas (06) 5622222
different exciting destinations around beautiful Jordan. Al Daleel 0797075870 (06) 5651002
Rakaz 0799905054 )06( 5545801
For bookings please call:
Rimal 0795333810 (06) 5511835
Dr. Rafea Tahat, Head of Domestic Tourism, Jordan Society of Tourism
and Travel Agents, 0795559440. Al Sabeel 0795299890 (06) 5699663
Al Sama' Al Bronziyyah 0786699002 (06) 5539660
Note: Trips are suspended during the holy month of Ramadan, and last until September
Al Taqa 0799115113 (06) 5657333
2nd.
Places you don’t want to miss while in Jordan: Abr Al Zaman 0795609023 (06) 5511730
Prices: • Souk JARA, Amman’s must-visit open market, Al 'Araqa 0797196702 (06) 5656774
is off the Rainbow Street and offers unique
• Prices below are inclusive of transport cost,
handicrafts, vintage collectables, homemade Al Qadiree 0799897071 (06) 5549409
lunch, guide, entrance fees, and water. snacks, jewelry, and trinkets of every kind. Souk
• Children under 2 years old: Free of charge. Qanat Al Sewais 0797455970 (06) 5525100
JARA opens from 10am-10pm on Fridays, and
• Children 2-6 years old: 10 JDs each. lasts till the end of September. Al Masa 0780066666 (06) 5602222
• A few blocks away from Souk JARA, families
• Children 6-12 years old: 15 JDs each. Al Motawwaset 0796720348 (06) 5516684
can visit Urdon Shop, a new venture introduc-
ing a unique Jordanian experience where you’ll Al Majd 0797143185 (06) 5653553
Pick up and Drop-off points: find quality original products made by various
Regency Hotel, Amman. local communities, including jewelry, kilims, Mafateeh 0798508080 (06) 5665115
olive oil, and ceramics. Al Markeb 0797707703 (06) 5560562
Pick up time: • On the same street, Wild Jordan café and gift
center offers visitors a chance to enjoy healthy Mawakeb 0799998958 (06) 5814545
Trips to the Southern Region: 7:00am.
foods and smoothies, and an opportunity to Moshen 0798203909 (06) 5670010
Trips to the Northern and Central shop unique gifts from the Natural Reserves of
regions: 8:00am. Jordan. Al Mawed 0795507722 (06) 4627475
• Did you know that Jerash city, in the north, Milano 0796531638 (06) 5863388
Deadline for bookings: has the largest intact ancient Roman city east
24 hours ahead of trip. of Rome? Al Najm Al Sate' 0799480861 (06) 5863357
• The south of Jordan is home to the Golden Lamees (06) 5512198 (06) 4657570
Triangle, encompassing Aqaba, Wadi Rum
Bookings can be made through the and Petra. One of the Seven Wonders of the Hawazen 0796700841 (06) 4642925
following tourist agents: World, the rose-read city of Petra, is a beautiful
Holiday (06) 5667766 (06) 5540554
archeological site that tells the story of the
Nabataean Arabs, who inhabited the Arabian
Peninsula around 2,200 years ago.
2 3
Program details:
Day Program details Price per
person
Friday Amman-Petra-Amman 23 JDs
Amman-Dana-Shobak-Amman 23 JDs
Amman-Tafileh (Afra Hot springs, Silei’, Mi’ten)-Amman 23 JDs
Amman-Desert Castles (Azraq Castle, Azraq Reserve)-Amman 20 JDs
Amman-Madaba (Mount Nebo)-Dead Sea-Amman 20 JDs
Amman-Um Rassas-Dheeban-Wadi Al Mujib-Karak-Amman 23 JDs
Amman-Jerash-Ajloun-Rassoun-Amman 20 JDs
Amman-Um Qais-Pella-Northern Ghor-Amman 20 JDs
Amman-Jala’d-Wadi Shue’ib-Salt-Amman 20 JDs
Day Program details Price per
person
Saturday Amman-Desert Castles (Azraq Castle, Azraq Reserve)-Amman 20 JDs
Amman-Madaba (Mount Nebo)-Dead Sea-Amman 20 JDs
Amman-Um Rassas-Dheeban-Wadi Al Mujib-Karak-Amman 23 JDs
Amman-Petra-Amman 23 JDs
Day Program details Price per
person
Tuesday Amman-Jerash-Ajloun-Rassoun-Amman 20 JDs
Amman-Um Qais-Pella-Northern Ghor-Amman 20 JDs
Amman-Jala’d-Wadi Shue’ib-Salt-Amman 20 JDs
Amman-Petra-Amman 23 JDs
4
Calendar of Events and Festivals 2014
This is a quick guide to the events and festivals happening across Jordan during the
summer months. Whether you enjoy culture and arts, and sports, or you enjoy attending,
we have a great variety to offer our visitor!
Notes:
• Events are subject to change; kindly refer back to the organizer
• Some events may be ticketed
• For a full list of events and festivals organized by the Ministry of Tourism and
Antiquities, please refer to www.tourism.jo
• For the full calendar, details, timing and prices for performances including
transportation details during Jerash Festival, kindly visit www.karasi.com, or call
(06) 56115383
• For more information on the Jordan Motor Sports calendar and events, please visit
www.jordan-motorsport.com
JULY
• Ramadan Nights at the governorates; the town comes to life during Ramadan.
MAY
Celebrate this holy month in the governorates amongst the hospitable people of
• Amman Festival at the Hashemite Square (Saha Al Hashimiyeh), Downtown Amman,
Jordan, enjoying food, shopping and entertainment! All governorates, during the holy
every Friday from 1st May – 27th June, organized by the Greater Amman Municipality
month of Ramadan, organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
(GAM)
• Ramadan Nights at the Hashemite Square (Saha Al Hashimiyeh), Downtown Amman,
• Beit Al Ruwad Arabic musical concerts, King Hussein Cultural Center, Ras Al Ein,
every day during the holy month of Ramadan, organized by the Greater Amman
Amman, every Tuesday evening, organized by the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM)
Municipality (GAM)
• 2nd National Rally, 30th May, organized by Jordan Motorsport
• 1st annual Kart Race, 4th July, organized by Jordan Motorsport
• Souk JARA, Fawzi Ma’louf Street, off Rainbow Street, Amman, every Friday from 10am-
• 3rd annual Drift Race, 11th July, organized by Jordan Motorsport
10pm, organized by the Jabal Amman Residents Association (JARA)
• 4th annual Speed Test, 18th July, Sofex racing track, Marka, organized by Jordan
Motorsport
JUNE
• 2nd annual Kart Race, 25th July, organized by Jordan Motorsport
• Karak Tourism Festival; a celebration of everything Karaki! From the famous Jameed
• Souk JARA, Fawzi Ma’louf Street, off Rainbow Street, Amman, every Friday from 9pm-
and Mansaf to the Shihhan honey, all at the fabulous Karak Castle including folk dance,
2am, organized by the Jabal Amman Residents Association (JARA)
souvenirs and children’s activities! 17th – 18th June, Karak Castle and Plaza, Karak,
organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
AUGUST
• Amman Festival at the Hashemite Square (Saha Al Hashimiyeh), Downtown Amman,
• Citadel Nights, 2nd day of Eid Al Fitr for two weeks, Citadel, Amman, organized by the
every Friday from 1st May – 27th June, organized by the Greater Amman Municipality
Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM)
(GAM)
• The annual Amman Summer Festival, 2nd – 10th August daily, at the King Hussein Park,
• Beit Al Ruwad Arabic musical concerts, King Hussein Cultural Center, Ras Al Ein,
Amman, organized by the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM)
Amman, every Tuesday evening, organized by the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM)
• Beit Al Ruwad Arabic musical concerts, King Hussein Cultural Center, Ras Al Ein,
• The annual Jerash Festival , 19th – 28th June at Jerash Archeological Park, Jerash,
Amman, every Tuesday evening, organized by the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM)
organized by the Higher Committee for Jerash Festival
• 3rd annual Kart Race, 8th August, organized by Jordan Motorsport
• The 3rd annual Speed test, 6th June, organized by Jordan Motorsport
• Al Hussein Rumman International Hill Climb, 22nd August, organized by Jordan
• The 2nd annual Drift Race, 13th June, organized by Jordan Motorsport
Motorsport
• 3rd National Rally, 20th June, organized by Jordan Motorsport
• 4th annual Kart Race, 29th August, organized by Jordan Motorsport
• Souk JARA, Fawzi Ma’louf Street, off Rainbow Street, Amman, every Friday from 10am-
• Souk JARA, Fawzi Ma’louf Street, off Rainbow Street, Amman, every Friday from 10am-
10pm, organized by the Jabal Amman Residents Association (JARA)
10pm, organized by the Jabal Amman Residents Association (JARA)
6 7
SEPTEMBER A journey from the South to the North
• The Jordanian Bedouin Festival, 15th – 16th September, organized by the Ministry of
Tourism and Antiquities In the coming pages, we visit some of the wondrous places in Jordan. We will start from our
• Beit Al Ruwad Arabic musical concerts, King Hussein Cultural Center, Ras Al Ein, most southern tip, Aqaba, with its golden beaches; moving onwards to Wadi Rum with its
Amman, every Tuesday evening, organized by the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) pristine sand dunes, and then to the rosy wonders of Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of
• Zarqa Cultural Festival, 16th – 23rd September, King Abdullah II Cultural Center, Zarqa, the World.
organized by the Ministry of Culture From there we go to Maan with its time-defying desert castles, and then to Tafileh with
• 5th annual Kart Race, 12th September, organized by Jordan Motorsport its natural landscapes, arriving to Karak with its rich and inspiring history. In the Central
• 4th annual Drift Race, 26th September, organized by Jordan Motorsport Region, we visit Madaba, famous for its beautiful mosaic arts, and from there we visit
• Souk JARA, Fawzi Ma’louf Street, off Rainbow Street, Amman, every Friday from 10am- Amman, the capital, where diverse cultural landscapes mix eloquently with tradition and
10pm, organized by the Jabal Amman Residents Association (JARA) everything Jordanian.
Moving northward, we visit the Balqaa region with its rich heritage, we then go to Jerash,
OCTOBER home to various Roman archeological sites, and to Ajloun’s thick forests, before ending
• Dead Sea Nights; enjoy the atmosphere of the Dead Sea in this annual Festival, listen our journey in Irbid, where expanses of green roving fields can be found. In each of these
to the beautiful voices of Jordan’s most popular artists, during Eid Al Adha, Dead beautiful sites you will encounter the true hospitality of Jordanians, and this, we know, will
Sea, organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Greater Amman truly enrich your journey around Jordan!
Municipality (GAM)
• 4th National Rally, 10th October, organized by Jordan Motorsport
• 5th annual Speed Test, 24th October, organized by Jordan Motorsport
88 9
AQABA & WADI RUM Must visit restaurants and cafés:
Restaurants and cafés are available offering an
You cannot come to Jordan and not make a few days’ stop in the Southern tip of the assortment of local and international cuisines.
Kingdom. The governorate of Aqaba includes the sparkling seaside resort of Aqaba, a lively
seaside town with hotels, restaurants, and lots of sun! Don’t miss out on water sports and Must visit museums and galleries:
scuba diving in the Red Sea. • Aqaba Archeological Museum, (03)
While in the south of Jordan, make arrangements to visit the breathtaking Wadi Rum, 2019063, opening hours from 8:00am-
a World Heritage Site. This is where Lawrence of Arabia, the film, was shot. Wadi Rum is 5:00pm. Ticket prices: 0.150 JD for
known for its pristine expanses of sand dunes, authentic Bedouin lifestyle, camel trips, and Jordanian and 1 JD for non-Jordanian
rock climbing. A trip down south is worth your while, especially to Wadi Finan, located on • Aqaba Heritage Museum, (03) 2091000,
the Aqaba-Dead Sea highway. opening hours from 8:30am-2:00pm
The Aqaba destination offers facilities and activities for the whole family to enjoy. (Sunday-Tuesday), 8:30am-4:00pm
(Saturday-Wednesday-Thursday). Free
For inquiries, please contact: entrance
• Aqaba Visitors Center, Great Arab Revolt Square, Aqaba City, (03) 2013363 • Aqaba Marine Museum, (03) 2033089,
• Wadi Rum Visitors Center/Wadi Rum Entrance, Wadi Rum, (03) 2090600 opening hours from 8:00-4:00pm. Ticket
• Humaymah Visitors Center, Al Humaymah Archeological Site, 0787246871 prices: 0.50 JD for Jordanian and 5 JD for
• Tourism Directorate of Aqaba, (03) 2013363 non-Jordanian
• Director of Tourism, Mahmmoud Al Halalat, 0777806992, 0798488880
• Tourism Police, in Aqaba (03) 2050829, in Wadi Rum (03) 2018215 Must visit handicraft and local produce
shops:
Most important tourism sites to visit: Tens of oriental souvenir shops that sell
• Aqaba Archeological Museum colorful sand bottles and traditional gifts are
• Aqaba Marine Museum available
• Heritage Museum
• Aqaba Castle Activities available in Aqaba:
• Ayla Archeological Site • Horse carriages, available at different
• Byzantium Church, Aqaba street corners
• Humaymah Archeological Site • Glass-bottom and submarine Boats,
• Wadi Rum Reserve available at public and hotel beaches
• Finan, Wadi Araba • Water sports, available at hotels
• Aqaba Marine Park • Scuba-diving, available at diving centers
Most important archeological sites to visit: Activities available in Wadi Rum:
• Aqaba Castle, opening hours from 9:00am-5:00pm. Ticket prices: 1 JD • 4x4 adventures
• Ayla Archeological, opening hours from 9:00am-5:00pm. Free entrance • Horse and camel rides
• Byzantium Church, opening hours are limitless. Free entrance • ATV rentals
• Wadi Rum Reserve. Ticket prices: 1 JD for Jordanian and 5 JD for non-Jordanian
Most important lodging and accommodation available:
• Finan Ecolodge, Wadi Araba, (06) 4645580
• Aqaba Hotels Association, www.aqabahotels.org
• Wadi Rum Camp sites, http://international.visitjordan.com/Wheretogo/WadiRum/
Accommodation.aspx
10 11
PETRA
The rose-red city of Petra, known for its unique historical and archeological ruins, is one of
the Seven Wonders of the World.
Recognized as the capital of the olden Nabataean Arabs, Petra blossomed into the
crossroads of the Arab Peninsula more than 2200 years ago. Petra was possibly established
as early as 312 BC, and it quickly became a strategic and significant trade route and center
that influenced the region in various ways back in ancient times. It lies on the slope of a
biblical mountain, and to reach its Treasury you need to go through the valley-like path,
called “Seeq.” This long and winding entrance has witnessed the arrival of a great number
of tourists over the few past decades, especially after the ancient city was known to the
Western world in 1812, thanks to Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckardt.
Petra has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1985, and it was named one of the true
Most important trails for one day: Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
First trail: Today, Petra is regarded as a symbol of Jordan, as well as Jordan’s most-visited tourist
Departing from Aqaba to Wadi Rum am or pm, you arrive in Wadi Rum Rest House at the attraction, and it has seen many famous leaders and movie and music stars and
Rum village, followed by time spent at Rum Gates Restaurant, Rum Visitors Center, and personalities flock to it from all over the world.
from there a trip on camels or 4x4 cars, and back to Aqaba
Second trail:
Visiting touristic sites starting at the Church then to to Ayla city, the Museum, the Castle
and the Heritage Museum, you then head to the Southern Beach to visit The Marine
Science Station and you finish by the Marine Park
12 13
MAAN
Maan is located in Southern Jordan and covers a large area. It is well known for its desert and
its important location on trade routes as well as Pilgrimage routes, and it is known for its rich
history. You will find Roman, Nabataean, Umayyad and Islamic wonders for you to enjoy.
The great Arab revolt started from here, the Palace of King Abduallah I and the old Maan
Souk are also interesting places to visit. A trip to Maan should include Shobak Castle
(Montpelier) and spending an overnight at one of the Shobak hotels is a must.
For inquiries, please contact:
• Ministry of Tourism Office, (03) 2132138, Director of Tourism: Dr. Yassin Salah,
0776609610. For inquiries: Amjad Hamid Hamales, 0779048048 – Ezz El-Deen Salem Al
Ghnaimeen, 0772622614
Most important tourism sites to visit:
• Shobak Castle
• Ayoubi Army Parade/Shobak Castle
• Birket Al Hammam
• King Abdullah Park
• Maan Castle
• King Abdullah I Palace
• Roman Army Camp at Ithreh
Most important archeological sites to visit:
• Shobak Castle: Opening hours from 8:00am-4:00pm
Most unique lodging and accommodation available:
• Shweikh Inn, Desert Highway, (03) 2132428
• Montreal Hotel, Shobak, (03) 2165441
Must visit handicraft and local produce shops:
• Southern Special Education Society
• Shobak Villages Society
• Asha’ri Women Society
Most important trails for one day:
Maan Trail:
Departing from Birket Al Hammam, to Maan Sham fields, to the old heritage souk (market),
and then to King Abdullah II Park, to Maan Hijazi fields
Shobak Trail:
Shobak Castle and the Ayoubi Army Parade
Ithreh Trail:
Tahkeen Mount and the Roman army camp
14 15• Silei’ village • Khirbet Al Rashadiyeh
• Burbeita Hot Springs • Khirbet Thureih and Tanoor
Most important lodging and accommodation available:
• Dana Reserve Lodge/The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN),
(03) 2270497 or (03) 2270498
• Dana Tower Hotel, Dana, (03) 2270537 or 0795688853
• Dana Hotel/Sons of Dana and Qadeseyeh Society, Dana, (03) 2270537
• Dana Youth Association, Furnished Apartments, Al Tafileh/Al Qasba, 0777155655
• Afra Hot Springs Chalets, Afra, 0772090892 or (03) 2242635
• Rummana Campsite, The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN),
0777919781
Must visit handicraft and local produce shops:
• Ahl Al Himmeh Assocaition, 0772089614
• ‘Araaqa Center for Handicrafts, 0772089614
• Nahr Al A’ta’ Association, 0779086052
Must attend festivals and events:
• July: Tafileh Nights, in three different touristic locations, organized by the Tourism
Directorate of Tafileh, (03) 2242635
TAFILEH • 11th and 12th of August: Tafileh Festival,
Take the scenic King Highway road to Tafileh to enjoy its breathtaking landscape it is in touristic sites, organized by the
famous for. Tafileh, tucked between Karak and Maan, is Jordan’s hidden gem and not for Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and
the light hearted! If you want to spend the day or looking for a few days’ trip in Jordan, the Tourism Directorate of Tafileh, (03)
make sure you plan for a visit to Tafileh! 2242635
Tucked away in Tafileh is the famous Dana Nature Reserve with its amazing and one-of-a- Most important trails for one day:
kind bio-diversity, plants, and animals of every kind. This wondrous location offers tourists First Trail:
special camping tents that are erected in the midst of the lush wilderness. Departing from the Byzantine Church, to
Wadi Afra, then Hasa Stream, and Ghor
Tafileh is also known for its archeological sites that span several ancient civilizations,
Niqei’
including the Edomites, who established their capital, Busaira, within Tafileh’s vicinity.
Whether your thing is hiking, or you wish to visit holy shrines, or even hot springs, or
Second trail:
maybe archeological and heritage sites, Tafileh is the place to go!
The Byzantine Church, to Afra, then to
For inquiries, please contact: Tafileh Castle, Silei’, Mi’ten, Busaira, and
• Silei’ Visitor Center/Tourism Directorate of Tafileh, (03) 2242635 Dana
• Afra Visitors Center/Tourism Directorate of Tafileh, (03) 2242635
• Dana Visitors Center/The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), Third Trail:
(03) 2270497 Mi’ten Visitors Center, to Ramses I and
• Mi’ten Visitors Center/Al Boqae’ Tourism Society, 0775504550 Ramses II, then to Silei’ fields, and Silei’
• Tourism Directorate of Tafileh, (03) 2242635, Director of Tourism: Dr. Khalid Al Wohoush, Castle
0798506189. For inquiries: Zahi Al Ghababsheh, 0779102268
Most important tourism sites to visit:
• Afra Natural Hot Springs • Byzantine Church in Afra
• Dana Nature Reserve • Khirbet Busaira archeological site
• Mi’ten village • Khirbet Gharandal archeological site
16 17KARAK Must visit museums and galleries:
Opening hours are from 8:00am-6:00pm, all week long and during holidays
Karak is a short distance from the Capital Amman and lies towards the Mid-South of the • Karak Museum, (03) 2351216
Kingdom. Karak is home to the famous Karak Castle, one of the largest crusader castles in • Lot’s Cave Museum, Ghor Al Safi, (03) 2302845
the Levant. In 1176, Raynald of Châtillon gained possession of Karak, however, at the Battle • Islamic Museum, Southern Mazar, (03) 2370319
of Hattin in 1187, the famous Saladin besieged Karak, which was under the rule of Raynald
of Chatillion, and finally captured it in 1189. Must visit handicraft and local produce shops:
• Castle Gift Centre, Karak Castle street
Karak is also rich with a multitude of diverse landscapes including mountains and valleys,
and a visit to the Wadi Al Mujib reserve and Wadi Bin Hammad is a must for all visitors. A Must attend festivals and events:
number of shrines of Islamic importance can also be paid a visit; these shrines are for Noah, • Karak Tourism Festival, 17th and 18th June
Lot, Khader and Suleiman. Most important trails for one day:
Karak is also famous for its cuisine, so don’t forget to have authentic Karaki Mansaf during Heritage Trail:
your visit. The trail is inside the city of Karak, and includes the Eastern Panorama and the Southern
Panorama, Al Thaher Beibers Park, Field Marshal Habis Al Majali Park, Hamidi Mosque,
You can reach Karak from the Desert Highway, the picturesque King’s Highway or the Dead Omari Mosque, Shrine of Khader, Khader Road, King Hussein street, followed by a visit to
Sea Road. old churches, the old millhouse, the Karak Plaza project, and Karak Castle
For inquiries, please contact:
• Tourism Directorate of Karak, near Karak Castle, (03) 2354263. Director of Tourism: Religious Trail:
Jaafar Shihadeh, 079674689 The shrines of Prophet Mohammad’s (PBuH) Companions, the Mo’ta battle site, Karak
• Tourism Police in Karak: (03) 2352909 Castle, Shrine of Khader, Shrine of Noah, Shrine of Lot, and Ghor Al Safi
Most important tourism sites to visit:
• Karak Castle Southern Jordan Valley (Ghor) Trail:
• Jubilee Forest Dead Sea Panorama, Wadi Mujib, Bab Thraa’ archeological tombs, the Charitable Societies
• Ein Sarah Corporation in Southern Ghor and Ghor Al Safi to enjoy the taste of local produce, Lot’s
• Wadi Mujib Cave, and the Archeological Cave
• Dead Sea
• Wadi Assal
• Wadi Numeira
• Qatranah Castle
• Eastern Panorama and Southern Panorama
• Muhiee and That Ras
• Mo’ta scenic site
Most important archeological sites to visit:
• Karak Castle
• Qatranah Castle
• Al Ribbeh and Al Qasr ruins
Most important lodging and accommodation available:
• Karak Tourist Guesthouse, (03) 2352148
• Mujib Hotel, (03) 2386091
• Qirawan Hotel, (03) 2396022
• Castle Towers Hotel, (03) 2354293
18 19MADABA • Um Rasas (Opening hours from 8:00am-5:00pm. Free entrance)
• Mkawer (Opening hours from 8:00am-6:00pm. Ticket prices: 0.250 JD for Jordanian and
Welcome to Madaba! This small and friendly city is famed for its Byzantine mosaics and is 1.5 JD for non-Jordanian)
centrally located within Jordan, making it a popular base from which to tour the country. • La Storia Museum (Opening hours from 8:00am-6:00pm, (05) 3250247. Ticket prices:
Madaba is 32 kilometers away from Amman, nestles over an area 774 meters above sea 2JD for both Jordanian and non-Jordanian)
level, and enjoys fertile soil that comes with lush greenery.
Activities available in Madaba:
The word Madaba is originally Aramaic and means “water.” There is plenty to see both in • Art Gallery, (05) 3241992, www.madabaartgallery.com
and around the city, so you will definitely need more than an overnight stay to fully enjoy • Ramadan Nights in Madaba, every Thursday and Friday in Ramadan at Madaba Visitors
what Madaba has to offer. Center, organized by the Tourism Directorate of Madaba, (05) 3245527
From a fascinating Christian history to intricate mosaics, along with a traditional Jordanian Most important trails for one day:
culture, Madaba covers some major sites including Mkawer, Mount Nebo and Um Al Rasas Madaba Heritage Tour:
which should not be missed. (Walking trail): Madaba Visitors Center, Madaba Institute for Mosaic Art and Restoration,
As for Madaba the city, make sure you spend time there for it is easy and enjoyable to walk Archeological Park, The Burnt Church, Tourism street, Saint George’s Church (Church of the
around and explore. Stay at one of the family-run hotels and B&Bs, taste local dishes at any Map), Church of Saint John the Baptist, Madaba Museum, Apostles Church
of the multiple restaurants, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the people of Madaba.
For inquiries, please contact: Madaba Religious Trail:
• Madaba Visitors Center, Abu Bakir Al Sideeq Street, (05) 3253563 (Walking and Vehicle trail): Madaba Visitors Center, free tour around the Madaba City
• Um Rasas Visitors Center, Um Rasas, 0779251220 Center, Saint George’s Church, Mount Nebo, Baptism Site
• Tourism Directorate of Madaba, (05) 3245527 or 0772278468. Director of Tourism: Wael
Ja’neeni, 0772278468, 0796525011. For inquiries: Faisal Bakkar, 0777396464 Madaba Christian Pilgrimage Trail:
• Tourism police in Madaba, (05) 3240764 or 0772420706 (Vehicle trail): Mount Nebo, and the Baptism Site
Most important tourism sites to visit: Madaba Cultural Heritage:
• Saint George’s church (Church of the Map) (Vehicle trail): Um Rasas, Llahoun, Mkawer, and Bani Hamida carpet and candle makers
• Mount Nebo
• Madaba Archeological Park Madaba Wellness Trail:
• The Burnt Church and Martyrs Church (Vehicle trail): Mai’n Hot Springs, Dead Sea Panorama, Dead Sea Panorama Geological
• Madaba Archeological Museum Museum
• The Apostles Church
• Mai’n Hot Springs
• Mkawer
• Um Rasas
• Madaba Institute for Mosaic Art and Restoration
Most important archeological sites to visit:
• Madaba Archeological Park
• The Burnt Palace
• Madaba Archeological Museum
• Apostles Church (Opening hours from 8:00am-5:00pm. Ticket prices: 0.250 JD for
Jordanian and 2 JD for non-Jordanian)
• Saint George’s Church (Church of the Map)
• Church of Saint John the Baptist (Opening hours from 8:00am-6:00pm. Ticket prices: 1
JD for both Jordanian and non-Jordanian)
• Mount Nebo (Opening hours from 8:00am-6:00pm. Ticket prices: 0.250 JD for Jordanian
and 2 JD for non-Jordanian)
20 21BALQAA
With a rich and varying landscape, the Balqaa region boasts some of Jordan’s most
wondrous sites and beautiful towns. This area of Jordan is rich in history, and with every
corner, you will find an archeological, historical or important site worth dropping by.
Relaxing at the Dead Sea? Whether you wish to spend a couple of days relaxing at the
hotels, or just a day trip, the Dead Sea is considered the World’s largest natural spa and
the lowest point on earth, the saltiest of seas and the most pure of air, is a must-see for all
travelers to Jordan.
Close by, the Baptism Site, the place where Jesus was baptized, is also a trip that you should
take.
AMMAN
The city of Salt, considered to be the capital of Balqaa, is known for its beautiful
The capital city of Amman is a melting pot for ancient civilizations, heritage, tradition and
architecture and rich heritage, and has a warm, cozy vibe.
modern times. This vibrant city enjoys a large variety of traditional and modern markets and
malls, as well as numerous archeological and cultural heritage sites that are worth your while. A must visit area of Jordan and with its close proximity to Amman (30 kilometers away) can
fill your day comfortably!
One of the landmark sites in Amman lies in its Downtown, and it is none other than
the Roman Amphitheatre, located in close proximity to the Hashemite Square (Saha For inquiries, please contact:
Al Hashimiyeh) where numerous festivals and book fairs take place in summertime, in • King Hussein Bridge Visitors Center, (05) 3581030
addition to cultural, touristic, and handicrafts exhibitions. • Baptism Site Visitors Center, (05) 3590360
• Salt History Museum Visitors Center, (05) 3532072
Amman embraces a large number of museums, art galleries and artistic and touristic
• Tourism Directorate of Balqaa, (A’yn Square, next to Salt History Museum), 0798280677.
activities of every kind. These activities peak in summertime, attracting visitors from every
Director of Tourism: Ayman Abu Jalmeh, 0798280677
age and background.
Tourists often start their journey toward other touristic trails from Amman, and this guide
details the many destinations for each trail.
The Rainbow Street is one of Amman’s busiest entertainment spots during the summer
this year. Families can take a simple stroll down the street lined with Jordanian and
international cuisine restaurants, in addition to fast food snack bars, ice cream parlors, and
souvenir shops.
Off the Rainbow Street, there lies Souk JARA, one of Amman’s most famous open markets,
held exclusively during summer months. The Souk offers its visitors a great variety of
handicrafts, vintage collectables, homemade snacks, handmade jewelry and accessories,
and many more trinkets that pleasure the eye. Souk JARA is open from 10:00am-10:00pm
on Fridays, and lasts till the end of September.
A few blocks away from Souk JARA, a newly-launched Urdon Shop & Café receives visitors
who wish to enjoy a unique Jordanian experience. Urdon Shop sells Jordanian-made
products that are handpicked from different localities and communities around the
Kingdom, including jewelry, kilims, olive oil, and ceramics.
On the same street, you can also visit Wild Jordan, a café that offers healthy dishes and
smoothies, and a gift shop that brings you unique products from Jordan’s Natural Reserves.
For more ideas and information about activities around Amman, please visit: www.
visitjordan.com/99things
22 23Most important tourism sites to visit:
• Baptism Site
• Dead Sea
• Salt City Museum
• Jala’d
• Ramaimeen
• Zay
• Um Al A’mad
• Salt Valley
• Shue’ib Valley
• Holy Shrines
• Maghareeb
• Sitteen Road
Most important archeological sites to visit: JERASH
• Salt Castle
• Jadour Mount A close second to Petra on the list of favorite destinations in Jordan is the ancient city of
• Roman Graveyard/Salt Valley Jerash, or Gerasa, which boasts an unbroken chain of human occupation dating back more
• Shrine of Khader/Khader Road than 6,500 years.
• Deir A’la Hill The Jerash Archeological Park was one of the ten great Roman cities of the Decapolis
Must visit museums and galleries: League. The site remained hidden for centuries in sand before being excavated and
• Salt Archeological Museum/Salt Archeological Museum: (05) 3555651, daily from restored over the past 70 years, comprising paved and colonnaded streets, soaring hilltop
8:30am-4:30pm temples, handsome theatres, spacious public squares and plazas, baths, fountains and city
• Salt Historical Museum/A’yn Square: (05) 3532072, daily excluding Fridays, from walls pierced by towers and gates.
8:30am-4:30pm Jerash boasts impressive sites, beautiful landscape, green rich forests and reserves, a rich
Must visit handicraft and local produce shops: cuisine and an even richer community.
• El Bait Baitak, Al Jad’a, 0795055505 So there is plenty to see in this northern area of Jordan, and a full day visit is a must!
• Spice vendors, Al Hammam Street, Salt
For inquiries, please contact:
Must attend festivals and events: • Jerash Visitors Center, Jerash Archeological Park, (02) 6351272
• Ramadan Nights, Salt Historical Museum, During Ramadan • Tourism Directorate of Jerash, (02) 6351272, Director of Tourism: Hussam Mharmeh,
• Rumman Hill Climb, Jordan Motor Sports, annually in September 0795611456. For inquires: Abdul Illah Kayed, 0795697676
• Al Hammam Street Festival, 27th June • Tourism Police in Jerash: (02) 6342009
Most important tourism sites to visit:
• Jerash Archeological Park
• Jerash Archeological Museum
• Jerash Handicrafts Market
• The Eastern Hamamat
• Al Birkitein
• Pasha Ali Kayed Palace (Souf )
• Dibeen Nature Reserve
• The Cedar Reserve
• The Gazelle Reserve
• Safsafeh and Um Jozeh
24 25• Sindyan Reserve (Kafer Khal)
• Princess Alia Reserve (Souf )
• Prince Hamzah Reserve (Al Muraba’a)
Most important archeological sites to visit:
• Jerash Archeological Park, opening hours from 9:00am-6:00pm daily. Ticket prices: 0.50
JD for Jordanian and Arab and 8 JD for non-Jordanian
Must visit museums and galleries:
• Jerash Archeological Museum; located at the Jerash Archeological Park, (02) 6351272,
opening hours from 9:00am-6:00pm excluding Tuesdays. Free entrance
Must visit handicraft and local produce shops:
• Ammon Glassware, the only Nabataean glassmaker in the Middle East, 0795302654
• Jerash Women’s Society for handicrafts and embroidery, 0777713959
• Jerash Handicrafts Society for traditional handicrafts and mosaics, 0777849198
• Rural Jerash Association for local produce, 0772093595
• Jamla Association for local produce, 0775316440
• Khasheeba Al Tahta for local produce and community kitchen, 0779290737
• Souf Camp Women’s Association for local produce and community kitchen,
0786523769
• North Jerash Association for local produce, 0772236151
• Al Shawahed Association for local produce, 0772235054
• Jordan Youth Association for local produce, 0779069190
• Land Treasures Association for local produce, 0777945897
• Al Sindyaneh Association for local produce, 0777221392
• Kafer Khal Women’s Association for local produce, 0788759569
• Al Mastaba Women’s Association for local produce, 0772351355
• Ghazat Hashem Rural Women’s Association, 0777150226
• Al Jazazah Rural Women’s Association, 0772603424
Most important trails for one day:
Jerash Rural Trail (Sindyan Reserve):
Jerash, Sindyan Reserve (Khafer Khal), ‘Arqoub Broum, Sunset panorama, Moon panorama,
Monk Hinyouf Monastery, Al Nahla Al ‘Asiya Valley, Rose Valley
Cedar Reserve Trail and Yanboo’ Al Hayat Monastery:
Jerash, Cedar Reserve/Dibeen Nature Reserve, Yanboo’ Al Hayat Monastery, walking to the
Pottery House/Dibeen, King Talal Dam panorama
Um Jozeh Al Safsafeh Trail:
Jerash, Um Jozeh, Sham valleys to learn about the natural habitat and herbs that grow in
the area, Al Safsafeh
26 27AJLOUN Most important archeological sites to visit:
• Ajloun Castle, opening hours from 8:00am-6:00pm. Ticket prices: 0.25 JD for Jordanian
Ajloun, the “beauty of all beauties” according to the late King Hussein Bin Talal, lies north of and 1 JD for non-Jordanian
Amman and Jerash, south of Irbid. • Mar Elias Archeological Site, opening hours from 8:00am-6:00pm. Free entrance
Ajloun is the perfect location for a summer retreat due to its cooler climate. It boasts many Most important lodging and accommodation available:
archeological, heritage and tourism site, but Ajloun must be famous for its forests and • Rasoun Campsite, Rasoun, 0776994709, www.rasouncamp.com
greenery! • Ishtafeina Campsite, Ishtafeina, 0795102780
Make sure you visit this area during your next trip to Jordan to enjoy the many unexpected • Ajloun Forest Reserve Campsite, 0777422105, www.rscn.org.jo
sites, tastes and sounds of Ajloun! Must visit museums and galleries:
For inquiries, please contact: • Ajloun Castle Museum, Ajloun Castle
• Ajloun Visitors Center, Near Ajloun Castle, (02) 6420115 • Abu Isam Museum for local artifacts, Rasoun
• Tourism Directorate of Ajloun, (02) 6420115. For inquires: Firas Al Khatatbeh, • Handicrafts Society for Heritage and Culture Museum, Kafranja
0777776328
• Tourism Police in Ajloun: (02) 6420856 Must visit handicraft and local produce shops:
Most important tourism sites to visit: • Al Wafa’ Lil Ard Association, 0772188524
• Ajloun Castle • Biscuit House, Rasoun, 0777422105
• Mar Elias Archeological Site • Soap House, Rasoun, www.facebook.com/thenatureshop
• Ajloun Forest Reserve • Calligraphy House, Rasoun, 0799844788
• Ishtafeina Forest • Handicrafts Society for Heritage and Culture, 0772069338
• Lady of the Mount Church
• Rajeb Waterfalls Must attend festivals and events:
• Ein Al Zaghdadiyeh, Kaferanja • Adventure and Hikes, (06) 4616523
• Rasoun walking trail • Adrenalin Team for Adventure Tourism, Rasoun Campsite, 0776994709
• Tawaheen Valley • Ramadan Nights, every Thursday and Friday during Ramadan, Ajloun Castle,
• Abein Ablein (02) 6420115
Most important trails for one day:
Rasoun Trail:
Ajloun Castle, Ishtafeina, Ajloun Forest Reserve, Biscuit House, Soap House, Calligraphy
House, Abu Issam Museum, Roman Olive Tree Garden, Forest hike, Mar Elias
Tawaheen Valley (Valley of the Mills):
Ajloun Castle, Tawaheen Valley, Kafranja, Mar Elias, Listeb Mosque, Rasoun Campsite
Ajloun Trail:
Ajloun Castle, Ajloun Heritage Downtown, Lady of the Mount Church, Rajeb waterfalls,
Wadi Kafranja, Ajloun through the Tawaheen Valley route
28 29IRBID Must visit restaurants and cafés:
• Um Qais Restaurant, Um Qais Archeological Site, (02) 7500555
Irbid, the Northern governorate of Jordan that is known primarily for its agriculture and its • Pella Restaurant, Pella Archeological Site, 0795574145
universities as well as the city of Irbid which is one of the largest in the Kingdom.
Must visit museums and galleries:
Irbid is home to a number of sites as well of huge historic impact including Beit Ras • Dar Al Saraya Museum, Irbid city center, (02) 7245613. Ticket prices: 0.50 JD for
(Capitolias), Um Qais (modern Gadara) and Pella (known locally as Tabaqit Fahl). Pella and Jordanian and 2 JD for non-Jordanian
Um Qais were once Decapolis Cities. • Museum of Archeology and Anthropology, Yarmouk University, (02) 7211111,
A full day will pass very quickly when sightseeing in Irbid and can include visits to the University opening hours apply
orange groves found in the northern Jordan Valley as well as the hot springs and the many • Um Qais Museum, Um Qais Archeological site, (02) 7500072
archeological sites. • Al Hosn Museum for heritage, Qanatera, Al Hosn, 0777423480. Ticket prices: 0.50 JD for
A visit to Irbid City is a must if you are into architectural heritage, which is home to a Jordanian and 2 JD for non-Jordanian
number of beautiful houses belonging to important Jordanian personalities. Most important trails for one day:
For inquiries, please contact: Yarmouk trail:
• Irbid City Visitors Center, Irbid City Center, (02) 7246297 Hosn Heritage Museum, Irbid to visit Dar Al Saraya Museum, Beit Al Nabulsi and Al Sharayri
• Um Qais Visitors Center, Um Qais Archeological Site, (02) 7500238 house, Beit Ras, Yarmouk Battle location, Um Qais
• Jordan Valley Border Crossing Visitors Center, Northern Jordan Valley, (02) 6550695
• Ramtha Border Visitors Center, Ramtha, (02) 7383074 Baqoura Trail:
• Tourism Directorate of Irbid, (02) 7241744. Director of Tourism: Dr. Bassam Toubat, Shatana Natural Site, Samad heritage village, North Shouneh, Shrine of Jalil Muath Bin
0772037842. For inquires: Hazem Kanaan, 0772176476 Jabal, Wadi Al Arab Dam Park, North Shuneh hot water springs, Baqoura
• Tourism Police in Um Qais: (02) 7500134
Birqesh trail:
Most important tourism sites to visit: Wadi Rayan, Jesus cave and church, Wild Bird Reserve/Birqesh, Birqesh Cave and Forests,
• Um Qais Archeological Site Pella, Sharhabeel Bin Hassna Park and Dam
• Pella
• Yarmouk Battle
• Beit Ras
• Birqish Forest
• Al A’sha Forest
• Iraq Al Tabel site and Kafer Assad Forests
• Dar Al Saraya Museum, Irbid
• Museum of Archeology and Anthropology, and the Natural History Museum and the
University of Yarmouk
• North Shouneh mineral water and hot springs
• Queilbah Archeological Site
• Shrines of the Prophet’s Companions
• Hosn old town
Most important archeological sites to visit:
• Um Qais Archeological Site, opening hours 8:00am-6:00pm. Ticket prices: free for
Jordanian and 1 JD for non-Jordanian
• Pella Archeological Site, opening hours from 8:00am-6:00pm. Free entrance
• Beit Ras, opening hours from 8:30am-3:30pm. Free entrance
• Dar Al Saraya Museum, opening hours from 8:30am-7:00pm. Ticket prices: 0.50 JD for
Jordanian and 2 JD for non-Jordanian
30 31We wish you an enjoyable journey across beautiful Jordan! The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities thanks you for your visit to Jordan, and we hope this tourist guide, “Journey around Jordan” has assisted you in organizing your trip across Jordan, We leave you with the following numbers for any inquiries you may have, And, “Ahlan wa Sahlan” (Welcome to Jordan)! 32
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