SOUTH DESERT HIGHWAY

Southern Jordan: Most Interesting Destinations and Activities

Southern Jordan is an area that should not be missed in your itinerary, as it is home to some of the most fascinating places in the country where you can experience truly unforgettable activities. On this page, we provide you with access to information on the most important destinations, the most remarkable experiences, and more.

Table of Contents

What is considered Southern Jordan

Southern Jordan is generally understood to be the region south of Wadi Musa (Petra). To get here, you need to travel the last kilometers of the King’s Highway and then continue to the end on the Desert Highway. On the western side lies Wadi Araba, which borders Israel, and on the eastern side, a vast desert in its broadest sense (including demographic), which extends into the Arabian Peninsula.

It is a harsh land, home to Bedouin tribes, the only ones capable of adapting to life in such a hostile environment. But for the traveler, exploring this space has its rewards: Wadi Rum Nature Reserve is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Middle East, and in the southernmost tip, the Red Sea awaits with its beaches and crystal-clear waters, a delight for any tourist.

What to see in Southern Jordan

There are two major destinations to visit in Southern Jordan: Aqaba and Wadi Rum. These are two places that should not be missed in a circuit throughout the country, and we provide detailed information about them in their respective guides.

Aqaba

Nestled on the coast of the Red Sea, it is the only city in Jordan with access to the sea. This gives it a crucial strategic importance, but also a special charm for tourists. It has a few but interesting monuments, but it is thanks to its resorts and modern amenities that it has become a preferred destination for premium travelers.

Wadi Rum

It is the most famous desert region in Jordan, popularized by T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia). The attractions of this natural reserve are numerous, including its mountains and viewpoints, petroglyphs, rocky canyons, and rock bridges, along with its starry skies at night, making it a place of unparalleled beauty.

What to do in Southern Jordan

When it comes to activities, Southern Jordan is likely the most interesting region in the country: here you can experience numerous adventures, some of which are only available in this region due to the unique terrain, such as desert dunes and the Red Sea coast.

Therefore, it can be said that it’s impossible to get bored in Southern Jordan, at least if you enjoy challenges and unique experiences. Here is a list of suggestions for things to do in Southern Jordan, organized by location:

Activities in the desert

Things to do in Wadi Rum
  • Rock climbing: on the red walls of Wadi Rum nature reserve, which attracts climbers from all over the world of all skill levels.

     

  • Hot air balloon rides: this activity has gained popularity in Wadi Rum, largely due to the favorable weather conditions for it.

     

  • Camel rides: exploring the desert dunes like a Bedouin on a camel is an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with the magical environment and the ancestral traditions of this nomadic people.

     

  • 4×4 off-road tours: for those seeking a more adrenaline-filled adventure, there’s the option to explore desert tracks on motorized vehicles.

     

  • Bedouin camping: spending the night under the starry desert sky in traditional tents is also a unique experience that can be enhanced with Bedouin cuisine and customs.

     

  • Meditation and spiritual exercises: the silence and vastness of the desert provide a conducive environment for introspection and inner reflection.

Activities at sea

Activities in the Aqaba Sea
  • Scuba diving in the Red Sea: the crystal-clear waters off the coast of Aqaba are perfect for beginners or for improving diving skills. It’s guaranteed to be a fascinating experience, as spotting marine species is not too difficult.

  • Beach swimming: the only beaches suitable for swimming are in Aqaba, except for some bathing spots at the Dead Sea, which have completely different conditions.

  • Boat rides, whether along the Jordanian coast or for longer durations, in the waters of Egypt.

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