Xplore Jordan - Amman

Welcome to Jordan! Upon arrival at the Jordan International Airport, you will be met by a local representative. He/she will be holding a signboard with your name on it and will assist you through visa formalities. Once you have gathered all of your luggage, you will be transferred to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is at leisure.
oned in the program

The Prophet Haroun (Aaron), the brother of the prophet Moses, he shared Moses his mission to pharaoh
in Egypt when Moses was a messenger. His tomb was built by the Mamluk Sultan Al Nasir Mohammad to
commemorate his death. His Tomb is located in Petra On top of Jebel Haroun inside a small mosque.

Yosha was the great grandson of Prophet Yusuf and the maternal nephew of Moses, was mentioned two
twice in the Holy Qur’an as the apprentice of Moses and became his successor. Moses appointed him his
deputy and went up to mount Nebo before he died.
The Tomb - Shrine of Prophet Joshua is located within a mosque west of Al Salt city

Arabian prophets and a descendent of the prophet Abraham, and the father in law of Moses , mentioned in
the Qur’an by name a total of 11 times. He used to live in area of Ma’in near Madaba, Shu’ayb was also said to
be the only prophet known to be blind.
His Tomb - Shrine is located near El Salt city at the Valley called Wadi Shoayb.

Descendant of A’mis, the third son of Ishaq (Isaac), who is mentioned in the Holy Quran four times for his
patience and faith in God which gave him the strengt to survive the many disasters that struck his life.
Shrine in an area known as Khirbet Ayyoub Southwest of Salt.

David was an important figure in Islam because he was one of the few apostles to whom heavenly scriptures
were revealed, the Zabur, the book of David, a holy book before the Holy Quran, referred to in the Qur’an as one of God’s books. His Shrine is located at the town of Northern Mazar near Irbid.

Was descended from the prophet Noah, an ancient Arab prophet, was sent to the tribe of A’ad because they
abandoned the worship of Allah in favor of idols. His story is mentioned in the holy Qur’an by name.
His Shrine is located near Jerash inside a Cave.

You can visit Prophet Nuh’s (Noah) shrine in Karak, and his tomb lies close to the city. God sent Noah to his people to warn them of divine punishment if they continued to worship idols, and to build a mighty ark that would withstand the floods to come.

Was a descendant from the progeny of Haroun, a popular saint and not a prophet, was mentioned in the Holy
Qur’an but not by name. he is the immortal figure whom Prophet Moses encountered according to the story
with Prophet Moses, has so many shrines in Jordan but no tomb. Shrines for Al-Khadir at the town of Bayt Ras in Irbid, Kerak, Ajlun and a sanctuary is located at Mahis.

He was the son that Allah had promised to Zakariya in his old age. Prophet Yahya (John the Baptist) baptized Prophet Jesus Christ at Bethany and often accompanied him and later he became a prophet and an apostle. His body remained at Mukawir.

Arriving in the modern town of Jerash, with its provincial streets and small market
gardens, you see little to suggest its illustrious past. But the moment you cross from
the new town into the ancient city, its boundary marked by the imposing Hadrian’s
Arch, it becomes apparent that this was once no ordinary backwater but a city of
great wealth and importance.
Located some 48 km (30 miles) north of the capital Amman, Jerash is known for the
ruins of the Greco-Roman city of Gerasa, also referred to as Antioch on the Golden
River. It is sometimes misleadingly referred to as the “Pompeii of the Middle East”,
referring to its size, extent of excavation and level of preservation (though Jerash was
never buried by a volcano).
Jerash became an urban centre during the 3rd century BC and a member of the
federation of Greek cities known as the Decapolis (“ten cities” in Greek). Jerash
prospered during the 1st century BC as a result of its position on the incense and
spice trade route from the Arabian Peninsula to Syria and the Mediterranean region.
Jerash was a favourite city of the Roman emporer, Hadrian, and reached its zenith in
AD 130, flourishing economically and socially. The city began to decline in the 3rd
century, later becoming a Christian city under the rule of the Byzantine empire. The
Muslims took over in AD 635, but the final blow to the city was dealt by Baldwin II of
Jerusalem in AD 1112 during the Crusades.
Modern Jerash sprawls to the east of the ruins, sharing the same city wall but little else.
Thankfully, the ruins have been carefully preserved and spared from encroachment.

The road to ‘Ajloun, located 25 kilometers west of Jerash and 73
kilometers from Amman, winds through fertile green hillsides lined with
olive groves. The main attraction in ‘Ajloun is the stronghold of Qala’at
al-Rabadh, a fine example of medieval Arab/Islamic military architecture.
The castle was built between 1184-85 CE by the nephew of Salah Eddin
al-Ayyubi (known in the West as Saladin), the great Muslim commander
who waged a successful campaign to recover lands lost to the invading
Crusaders.
Ajloun’s strategic position commanding the Jordan Valley, as well as the
three small valleys leading to it, made it an important link in the defensive
chain against the Crusaders, who spent decades unsuccessfully trying to
capture the castle and nearby village. The fortress is built upon the apex
of the hill above ‘Ajloun, and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding
countryside. On a clear day you can see the Dead Sea, the Jordan Valley,
the West Bank, and Lake Tiberias (the Sea of Galilee).
The original fortress had four corner towers, with arrow slits and a
16-meter-wide moat. It was enlarged in 1214-15 CE by the Mamluk officer
Aibak ibn Abdullah, who added a new tower in the southeast corner
and constructed the main one. In 1229, the castle fell to the Emirate
of Karak. In 1260, it was largely destroyed by the Mongol invaders, but
was reconquered and rebuilt almost immediately by the Mamluk Sultan
Baybars. The southwest tower was constructed at that time. During
Mamluk times, Qala’at al-Rabadh was one in a network of beacons and
pigeon posts that allowed messages to be transmitted from Baghdad to
Cairo in only twelve hours.

In the north-western corner of Jordan, in the hills above the Jordan Valley, are the
ruins of the Decapolis city of Gadara (now called Umm Qais). The site is striking
because of its juxtaposition of Roman ruins with an abandoned Ottoman-era village,
as well as its tremendous vantage point, with views of three countries (Jordan, Syria,
and the Palestinian Territories), encompassing the Golan Heights, Mt Hermon and
the Sea of Galilee.
According to the Bible, the place where Jesus cast out the devil from two men into a
herd of pigs (Matthew 8: 28-34). Rising 518 meters above sea level with magnificent
views of Lake Tiberias .
Gadara was renowned for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, attracting an array of writers,
artists, philosophers and poets. It also served as a resort for Romans vacationing in
the nearby al-Hemma hot springs. Like Pella, its sister Decapolis city, Gadara was
blessed with fertile soil, abundant water, and a location astride a number of key
trading routes connecting Asia and Europe.
The city was probably founded by the Greeks during the fourth century BCE. Gadara
was overrun by the Seleucid ruler Antiochus III in 218 BCE. When the Romans under
Pompey conquered the East and formed the Decapolis, the fortunes of Gadara, taken
in 63 BCE, improved rapidly and building was undertaken on a large scale. During the
early part of Roman rule, the Nabateans (with their capital at Petra) controlled the
trade routes as far north as Damascus. Aiming to put an end to this competition, Mark
Antony sent King Herod the Great to weaken the Nabateans, who finally gave up
their northern interests in 31 BCE. In In appreciation for his efforts, Rome rewarded
Herod with Gadara. The city remained under Herod’s rule until his death, and then
reverted to semi-autonomy as part of the Roman province of Syria.

Al-Salṭ, also spelled As Salt or Es-Salt, town, west-central Jordan. It is on the old main
highway (often called the Al-Salṭ Road) leading from Amman to Jerusalem. Al-Salt was
also once the most important settlement in the area between the Jordan Valley and the
Eastern Desert.
The Romans, Byzantines and Mameluks all contributed to the growth of the town but it
was at the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, during Ottoman rule,
when As-Salt enjoyed its most prosperous period.
It was at that time that the Ottomans established a regional administrative base in AlSalt and encouraged settlement from other parts of their empire. As the town’s status
increased, many merchants arrived and, with their newly acquired wealth, built the fine
houses that can still be admired in Al-Salt today; Perhaps the most beautiful is the Abu
Jaber mansion, built between 1892 and 1906, which has frescoed ceilings, painted by
Italian artists, and is reputed to be the finest example of a 19th century merchant house
in the region.
Tightly built on a cluster of three hills, As-Salt has several other places of interest,
including Roman tombs on the outskirts of town, and the Citadel and site of the town’s
early 13th century Ayyubid fortress, which was built by al- Ma’azzam Isa, the nephew
of Saladin, soon after 1198 AD. There is also a small museum and a handicraft school
where you can admire the traditional skills of ceramics, weaving, silk-screen printing
and dyeing.Al-Salt’s Archaeological & Folklore Museum displays artefacts dating back
to the Chalcolithic period and up to the Islamic era, as well as other items relating to
the history of the area. In the folklore museum there is a good presentation of Bedouin
and traditional costumes and everyday folkloric items.

Abila, an ancient site located 13km northeast of Irbid, Abila is most well known as one of
the cities of the Hellenistic league known as the Decapolis, and then as the home of five
prominent churches during the Byzantine period. Abila or ancient Raphana lies 15 km
(9 mi) to the north of Irbid, east of Umm Qais, 2 km (1 mi) east of Hartha. The largest
site is located amidst verdant agricultural fields near the modern Ain Quweilbeh spring.
Roman temples, Byzantine churches and early mosques lie amidst olive groves and
wheat fields.
Excavations indicate that the site was inhabited more than 5,000 years ago in the
early Bronze Age, and appears to have been continually used by man since then. The
site was in use from the Neolithic period until the Abbasid / Fatimid and Ayyubid/
Mamluk periods , though its use in these later periods was limited. While several of its
ancient structures have been excavated including aqueducts, tombs, gates and public
buildings, Abila is especially fascinating because so much of its remains unexcavated,
yet visible of the surface of the ground.

When Ayla was occupied and fortified by the Crusaders in 1115, they
built the castle, credited to the Mamluk Sultan al-Nasir Muhammad
of Egypt in 1320 AD, was rebuilt by one of the last Mamluk sultans in
Qansawh Al Ghawri 1587 AD,
The scene of a great Arab victory in July 1916 when this heavily defended
Turkish stronghold fell to a daring Arab camel charge. Lawrence
of Arabia rode triumphantly from here to Cairo to report the good
news to an astonished General Allenby. The port of Aqaba became a
major supply base for the advancing Arab Revolt ; The Aqaba Region
Archaeological Museum is located in the Aqaba house of Sherif Hussein
Bin Ali next to the Aqaba Castle.The museum was opened to the public
in 1990. Presently it houses an important collection from the Islamic
site of Ayla, dated to the Rashidun, Umayyad, Abbasid and Fatimid
periods, thus representing the Islamic periods from the mid-7th to the
beginning of the 12th century AD.

South of Madaba on the old King’s Highway is Kerak, which was the capital of the biblical
kingdom of Moab. Perched atop a steep hill, Kerak is a predominantly Christian town
dominated by the largest and best preserved of the Crusader castles in the region.
Once an important city of the Biblical kingdom of Moab, Kerak was also home to
the Nabateans, Romans (from 105 AD), and the Byzantines, before the Crusaders built
a castle here. In the Byzantine period Kerak was a bishopric and it remained mostly a
Christian town even under Arab rule.
Kerak Castle resisted attacks by Saladin’s troops in 1183 and 1184, but finally fell after
a siege in 1189. The Mamluk ruler Baybars added a tower on the northwest corner in
1263. It was later owned by local families until 1840, when Ibrahim Pasha of Egypt
captured the castle and destroyed much of it in the process.
Kerak Castle is a typical example of Crusader architecture, with Romanesque-style
stone vaults, numerous corridors, and strong doorways. The Crusader parts of the ruins
are mostly on the upper level and can be identified by their dark volcanic tufa; later
Arab additions are in white limestone.
Through a massive door steps lead down to vast, dimly-lit, vaulted rooms and
corridors underground.
The upper courtyard includes the remains of a Crusader chapel and provides excellent
views over the Jordanian landscape to the Dead Sea.
The west wing of the complex is home to the small Kerak Archaeological Museum,
which displays artefacts excavated at the site.

Shobak Castle is an early 12th-century Crusader castle in barren surroundings. It is
perched on the side of a rocky, conical mountain at 1,300m (4,265ft) above sea level,
looking out over fruit trees below. Although not so well-preserved or visited as Kerak
Castle, its isolation from the nearest town makes it more atmospheric.
Shobak was originally called Krak de Montreal or Mons Regalis. Built in 1115, it was
the first of many fortifications built beyond the Jordan by King Baldwin I of Jerusalem
to guard the road from Egypt to Damascus. It successfully resisted a number of sieges
until it fell to Saladin’s troops in 1189.
Much of what remains of Shobak Castle today are reconstructions and additions from
the Mamluk period, but there are numerous original Crusader features as well. The
northeast corner of the castle has a keep with Quaranic inscriptions in Kufic script,
possibly dating to the time of Saladin. There are two churches in Shobak Castle. The
first one, near the entrance, and has an apse, two smaller niches, and a baptistery off
the west side. The second church is near the southeast corner of the castle (next to
a Mamluk watchtower with more Kufic script), with a Crusader cross carved in the
east wall. Beneath the church are catacombs, which contain Islamic tablets, Christian
carvings, big round rocks used in catapults, and what is claimed to be Saladin’s throne.

Iraq Al Amir is situated in a lush, the area is generally known for Qasr Al-Abd an impressive
and unique building which dates from the first quarter of the second century BC.
Originally two stories high and constructed of megalithic stones weighing from 15-25
tons each, it the most striking Hellenistic monument that has survived on either side of
the Jordan River.
During the Greek Macedonian occupation, Iraq al -Amir was known under the Greek
name Tyros. Ptolemy Philadelpus built the city, transferring population from Tyre
in Phoenicia. It is located on the hills with high and medium altitude, the area has
many springs, and is famous for its olive trees, in addition to other forest trees. About
0.5 km south of the town is located the so-called Al-Iraq historical site, marked by the
partially restored palace / Qasr Al-Abd, (literally, “Palace of the Servant”) perhaps an
ironic reference to the name etched in the caves nearby, believed to be the name of
the owner of said estate. which was built during the Hellenistic period, around the 3rd
century BC, and reused under Byzantine rule before being destroyed by an earthquake.
There are many caves in the hills which were inhabited during the Copper Age.
Iraq Al Ameer Cooperative ,This cooperative, west of Amman in the village of Iraq Al
Amir, opposite the village caves of the same name, sells handmade pottery, fabrics,
foodstuffs, carpets and paper products. The project was founded by the Noor Al Hussein
Foundation and employs dozens of women from the surrounding area.

The rugged beauty and natural diversity of Dana make this nature reserve a
worthwhile stop for visitors to Jordan. The reserve encompasses some of Jordan’s
most breath-taking scenery, stretching from the 1800-meter-high Sharaa mountains
in the east down to the dunes of Wadi Araba at sea level.

Dana became the Kingdom’s sixth wildlife reserve in 1990, thereby protecting all
animals—including endangered species such as the ibex—from the ravages of
hunting. Next to the nature reserve is the small village of Dana. Artifacts uncovered
there indicate that man has inhabited this area for six thousand years, drawn by the
region’s fertile land and natural springs.
Dana Nature Reserve hosts a wide variety of fauna, including ibex, mountain gazelle,
fox, badger, porcupine, wolf, hyrax, striped hyena, jackal and many others. Numerous
species of birdlife roam the skies of Dana as well. Visitors to Dana are welcome to take
advantage of the designated campground area and the hiking trails which crisscross
the reserve. The rather luxurious campground offers meals, showers, guided walks
around the reserve, and tents with mattresses and pillows.

Trails in Dana are open from March 15th – October 31st Only , guided or self-guided.
For more information on hiking Trails lodging and camping please check the following
link : http://www.wildjordan.com/eco-tourism-section/dana-biosphere-reserve.

Situated about 15 minutes south of Azraq, the Shomari Wildlife Reserve covers 22 square
kilometers. The park is open daily from about 07:30 until around 16:00. It can be reached by
following a desert road to the western side of the reserve, which is completely encircled by a
fence. Numerous species of wildlife, including ostrich, gazelle, wild donkey, Arabian oryx and
others inhabit Shomari. While the park has been able to protect these animals from being
hunted, the lack of water in this area has caused these species’ habitat to shrink. Shomari’s
great success story is Operation Oryx. This project has attracted worldwide recognition for
its reintroduction into the wild of an almost extinct species, the Arabian oryx. With its two
straight horns and black face markings, the white oryx once roamed the deserts of Arabia
and the Fertile Crescent. Overhunting almost brought the species to extinction, but because
of careful management Shomari now boasts around 200 Arabian oryx. The reserve has also
fostered 14 ostriches from a single pair, and about 30 gazelles call Shomari home, as well.
For the best Experience at Shomari is to take the Safari Tour
A professional nature guide will meet you at the gate to the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve in
converted Land Cruiser safari vehicles. The tour begins with a brief about the reserve and
what to expect on your journey through the desert. Midway through the safari, you will stop
for a picnic and enjoy a hot cup of tea while taking in the beautiful semi-desert landscape
of Shaumari. The reserve is an amazing place where you will learn about Shaumari’s unusual
desert habitats and conservation history.
During your tour, you will learn the basic principles of animal tracking and practice reading
tracks. Your guide will also provide an overview of the reserve’s vegetation, pointing out
different kinds of native plants and herbs and their uses.

At 410 meters below sea level, the Mujib Biosphere Reserve is the lowest nature reserve
on Earth. Its rugged and spectacular mountains border the Dead Sea coast and are
dissected by several river-filled canyons that offer the best river and adventure hikes in
Jordan. The breathtaking scenery and the challenge of negotiating Mujib’s fast-flowing
rivers make the Reserve one of Jordan’s most popular natural attractions.
Mujib’s complex river system and all-year water flow enable it to support a rich
biodiversity. To date, over 300 species of plants, 10 species of carnivores and numerous
species of resident and migratory birds have been recorded. Some of the mountain
and valley areas are difficult to reach and offer safe havens for rare species of cats,
mountain goats (Ibex) and other mountain animals.
There are many Hiking Trails guided or self-guided with different difficulties from Easy
for Hiking beginners to difficult for professional hikers , Trails are open from April 1st till
October 31st annually
Due to the nature of the reserve there are many applicable conditions before taking
the trails , Visitors must be at least 18 years old, know how to swim, have a reasonable
level of fitness, and no fear of heights.

Ajloun Forest Reserve is located in the Ajloun highlands north of Amman and covers 13
square kilometres. It is dominated by open woodlands of Evergreen Oak, Pine, Carob, Wild
Pistachio and Wild Strawberry trees. These trees have been important to local people for
their wood, scenic beauty, and quite often for medicine and food.
The Ajloun area has a long history of human settlement, due to its mild climate, dense
forests, and fertile soil. This rich history is reflected in the many archaeological ruins scattered
in the wood-lands and surrounding villages. The reserve itself supports a wide variety of
wild plants and animals and is a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature. Among the more
unusual animals to be found in the Reserve are the Striped Hyena, Crested Porcupine and
Stone Marten. In spring, the reserve is a carpet of wild flowers, including drifts of anemones
and rock roses.
The reserve is houses a captive breeding programme for the locally extinct roe deer and has
been declared an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International. There are also a number of
hiking trails for tourists.
The most famous guided trail is Orjan Village Tour starts from the Soap House, this tour
takes you through wooded valleys to the lush green orchards of Orjan village, giving you
the chance to discover the rural lifestyle of the region. A poplar-lined spring provides a
wonderful contrast to the arid mountains. As you hike, note the dramatic rock walls, old
water mills once used by local people to grind their seeds and the hollow walnut tree. Enjoy
a delicious traditional meal prepared by locals parts of a community support program in an
orchard of fig, pomegranate, apple and apricot trees.

Azraq is a unique wetland, located in the heart of the arid Eastern Desert, which takes its name
from the Arabic word for ‘blue’. A migratory stopover for birds from three continents, Azraq is
becoming increasingly popular for bird-watching. From the walkways and hides, visitors get the
chance to observe birds close at hand, including local, migratory and occasional rare species.
Azraq is located about 110 kilometers east of Amman at the junction of roads leading northeast
into Iraq and southeast into Saudi Arabia. With 12 square kilometers of lush parklands, pools and
gardens, Azraq has the only water in all of the eastern desert. The oasis is also home to a host of
water buffalo and other wildlife. There are four main springs which supply Azraq with its water
as well as its name, which in Arabic means “blue.” Over the past 15 ye ars or so, the water level in
Azraq’s swamps has fallen dramatically due to large-scale pumping to supply Amman and Irbid.
This has resulted in the destruction of a large part of the marshlands. While Azraq remains one
of the most important oases in the Middle East for birds migrating between Africa and Europe,
its declining water levels have led many species to bypass Azraq in favor of other stops. The area
was once home to numerous deer, bear, ibex, oryx, cheetah and gazelle, many of which have
been decimated in the last sixty years by overzealous hunters.
The Azraq area also has a rich cultural history due to its strategic location and water resources.
It was used as a station for pilgrims and camel trains and Lawrence of Arabia was stationed in
Azraq Castle during the Arab Revolt. The local people are also unusually diverse, coming from
three different ethnic origins, Bedouin, Chechen and Druze; each of which has distinctive beliefs
and traditions.

Stunning in its natural beauty, Wadi Rum epitomizes the romance of the desert. With its
“moonscape” of ancient valleys and towering sandstone mountains rising out of the sand,
Wadi Rum is also home to several Bedouin tribes who live in scattered camps throughout the
area. Climbers are especially attracted to Wadi Rum because of its sheer granite and sandstone
cliffs, while hikers enjoy its vast empty spaces. Wadi Rum is probably best known because of
its connection with the enigmatic British officer T.E. Lawrence, who was based here during the
Great Arab Revolt of 1917-18. Much of David Lean’s Lawrence of Arabia was filmed in Wadi Rum.
There are also some interesting petroglyphs carved onto the side of the distant rock by the
Thamud tribes who first roamed this area in 800 BC.
There are several options available for exploring Wadi Rum. At the visitors centre , you can rent
out a four-wheel-drive jeep with a Bedouin driver for short or longer day tours of the area. Also
available are camels, which you can hire for short excursions or for the desert trip to Aqaba.
For those with a bit more time and/or sense of adventure, the best way to see Wadi Rum is
by hiking and camping in it. Indeed, the vast silence and grandeur of the landscape is best
experienced on foot. All you need for hiking in Wadi Rum is plenty of water (at least 2-3 liters
per day), some food, good shoes and a sleeping bag. Those with a four-wheel drive, a map and
plenty of fuel can see more of the landscape, while saving their energy for spectacular hikes such
as the Rock Bridge of Burdah, one of Wadi Rum’s most popular attractions.
True adventurers can test their skills and endurance by climbing Jordan’s highest mountain,
Jabal Rum.

Dibbeen Forest Reserve is a nature reserve located in the north-west of Jordan. It is
situated just south of the Roman site of Jerash and covers an area of 8.5 square kilometres
(3.3 sq mi) of rolling hills covered with pine–oak habitat. This area houses the largest
Aleppo Pines one of the oldest and naturally grown habitats in Jordan. It also is the home
to 17 endangered species that have been identified within the reserve. These include the
Persian red squirrel, four bat types, grey wolves and striped hyenas. Woodland birds also
live in the forest. It is also believed but not proven, that this reserve has the last population
of Southern Banded Newts living in Jordan The area was protected as a nature reserve in
2004 under the initiative of the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature.
The forest reserve contains one of the last remaining examples of a pine–oak forest
in the Middle East. The species of the reserve’s trees vary with elevation; Aleppo
Pines inhabit the lower altitudes, the mixed pine–oak woodland (comprising Aleppo Pine
and Palestine Oak) grows in the middle, and a species of small deciduous oak – Quercus
infectoria (the Aleppo, or Cyprus, Oak) – grows at the higher altitudes. Other flora in the
habitat include orchids, Greek strawberry trees, pistachio, and olive trees. The forest’s age
structure shows wide variation, with many areas containing mature forest trees and a
vigorous understory.
There are some short marked (but unmapped) hiking trails through the park. In March
and April carpets of red-crown anemones fill the meadows beneath the pine-forested and
sometimes snow-capped hills. Most trails are either small vehicle tracks or stony paths,
some of which continue beyond the park’s boundaries. The area is very popular with local
picnickers on Fridays.

The first botanic garden in Jordan. This unique 400 acre garden is
located in the mountains about 25km north of the capital city Amman
and is easily accessible from Amman to Irbid highway. The site benefits
from its proximity to other key attractions in Jordan, forming a natural
stopping point in the international visitor journey from Petra in the
south, on to Karak and Amman and thereafter to Jerash in the north.
Here in the northern part of the Jordan Valley’s highland ridge it enjoys
a Mediterranean climate, receives some of Jordan’s greatest rainfall and
includes traditional woodland habitats that have been protected from
grazing for eight years.
The Garden site is in Tal Al-Rumman area , a steep slopes overlooking
King Talal dam. The site comprises a significant variety of soils
and microclimates, several wadi systems, a perennial freshwater stream
and over 300 m of elevation change within its boundaries, offering a wide
range of possibilities for botanical research and display.
Jordan is particularly rich in plant species, having approximately over
2,600 species of vascular plants. Due to pressures associated with
desertification, e.g., drought, over-grazing, soil depletion, urban sprawl,
many of Jordan’s plant habitats are threatened or on the verge of
extinction. RBG is functioning as an instrument for addressing Jordan’s
conservation challenges and interpreting both problems and solutions.

The Jordan Trail crosses the length of this Middle Eastern country, from the mountains in
the north to the desert and the Red Sea coast in the south.
Ancient architectural wonders — like Petra, Roman ruins, and Crusader relics — will also
be passed en route, but with spectacular deserts, rugged mountains, canyons and cliffs,
green forests and fertile farmland, as well as Bedouin culture and rural homestays, it may
be difficult to decide what the highlight of this trek is.
The full Jordan Trail is 650 kilometres/403 miles, but it is conveniently divided into eight
more manageable sections of between four and six days. Pre-arranged group departures
are in the developmental stage, as are facilities along the route, so at the moment it is
recommended to attempt shorter sections of the trail, especially day hikes.

The Dead Sea is 75 kilometres long and from 6 to 16 kilometres wide. It is fed by the
Jordan River, but it has no outlet. As its name suggests, the Dead Sea is entirely devoid
of plant and animal life. This is due to an extremely high content of salt and other
minerals—350 grams of salt per kilogram of water, as compared to about 40 grams
in the world’s oceans. This concentration is caused by a rapid rate of evaporation.
These natural elements give the waters of the Dead Sea certain curative properties,
recognized since the days of Herod the Great over 2000 years ago.
The Dead Sea is also famous geographically as “the lowest point on earth,” lying some
400 meters below sea level. In addition to the historical significance of the “Salt Sea,”
as it was referred to in the Bible, the Dead Sea is today an important and rich source
of minerals essential for agricultural and industrial development, as well as for the
treatment of various medical conditions such as psoriasis. Visitors to the Dead Sea
come away with an unforgettable swimming experience, as the high density of the
water makes sinking virtually impossible. Indeed, swimming is also difficult, as one
is lifted too high in the water to be able to stroke properly. More appropriate is the
often-photographed pose showing a visitor reclining in the water, leisurely reading
a perfectly dry newspaper.
The Dead Sea mud contains salts & minerals as the mud absorbs them from the water
itself, it is rich in Magnesium, silicon compounds, it has a mask effect to the skin,
helps stimulation of blood circulation around the joints.
The natural healing power of the Dead Sea is utilized to treat skin diseases & joint
disorders, anti stress therapy, relaxation, fitness & beauty programs.

Lying 264 meters below sea level in a spectacular mountain landscape, The hot springs
and baths of Hammamat Ma’een have been enjoyed for therapeutic and leisure pursuits
for thousands of years. The public springs and commercial resort area are located 35
kilometres southwest of Madaba, along a winding road which crosses some of the most
spectacular territory around the Dead Sea. It is, however, impossible to drive directly
from Hammamat Ma’een to the Dead Sea. Hammamat Ma’een should not be confused
with the actual town of Ma’een, which is 15 kilometres before the springs.
The main public attraction is a large spring-fed waterfall, while a number of smaller ones
spurt forth within the private resort area (08-545-500). Shower facilities and a swimming
pool are also available for public use. Within the spa complex, one of the most popular
attractions is the body mud pack treatment, followed by showering and a hot bath. Other
spa and health facilities are also available in Hammamat Ma’een, as are accommodations.
The Ma’in region contains a total of 63 springs at different temperatures but similar
chemical composition, containing important elements such as sodium, calcium, chloride,
radon, hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide. Temperatures in some springs reach 63
degrees Celsius.
Tourists frequent the hot springs, seeking treatment for chronic physical ailments
such as skin and circulatory diseases, and bone, joint, back and muscular pains. The
hot water treatment is also useful in cases of chronic rheumatism, muscle spasm, back
pain, blood vessels, varicose veins, skin diseases, and overall body activation of nervous
and psychological exhaustion, endocrine secretion and chronic sinusitis. In addition to
immersing the body in the springs, as in a shower, bubble bath, jacuzzi bath or waterbed,
foot baths and steam treatments are available.

Ten kilometers to the north, the road from Umm Qais winds down toward the Yarmouk
River and the Golan where it ends at the baths of Hemma. There, Roman holidaymakers
sought rejuvenation and vitality from these health-giving hot springs. who held its
therapeutic abilities in high esteem, the waters are highly saturated with minerals ;
These are open to modern-day travellers as well. The main hot spring, whose mineralrich waters are a warm 57ºC, pours into an indoor pool. A number of chalets are also
available for rent within the complex. The Hemma facilities have been renovated, and
are now available for tourists.

Aqaba is a fusion of history, nature, and city life surrounded by picturesque mountains
and blue sea.
Bathing in its year-long warm sun, Aqaba invites you to relax on its beaches, partake
in the exhilaration of its water sports, and explore the coral reefs of the Red Sea, home
to hundreds of different types of corals and sponges with their wealth of brilliantly
colored fish.
With its balmy winter climate and idyllic setting, Aqaba is Jordan’s year-round aquatic
playground. In winter, while Amman shivers around 5ºC (41ºF), the temperature
hovers steadily at about 25ºC (77ºF) in Aqaba. The thriving underwater marine life and
the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Aqaba make diving conditions there among the
acknowledged best in the world. Snorkelling, water skiing, windsurfing, fishing and
other water sports are also popular.
Aqaba has a number of luxury hotels, including in the Tala Bay resort 20 km further
to the south, which service those who come for fun on the beaches as well as Scuba
diving. It also offers activities which take advantage of its desert location, another
amazing project is Ayla Oasis, a resort and a man made lagoon with luxury hotels,
villas, an 18-hole golf course, It also has an Arabian Venice theme with apartment
buildings built along canals only accessible by walkway or boat. There are many coffee
shops that offer local cuisine and desserts. Another very popular venue is the Turkish
Bath (Hamam) built in 306 AD, in which locals and visitors alike come to relax after a
hot day.

Situated about 37 km northwest of the center of at-Tafilah this area is
important for medicinal, historical and religious reasons. The hot springs are
known for their therapeutic qualities, as they are rich in minerals.
The area is also home to an ancient Byzantine church made up of three
caves. ‘Afra Hot Springs has special significance for Muslims, as a monument
to Faruah bin Amro al-Jathami, the first Muslim martyr outside of the Arabian
Peninsula, is located here. The area enjoys a moderate climate during winter
and thus the hot springs attract many people during winter who come to
relax and escape the cold weather. The natural spring water reaches 49 C
and contains beneficial minerals such as iron, bromide, and Sulphur, which
help treat many diseases such as arthritis, rheumatism, eczema, and various
skin diseases, as well as helping to improve blood circulation.

One of the first treatment centre of its kind in Jordan, the world-renowned Dead Sea Medical
Centre is the only place in the region offering natural skin care treatments. Located at Dead Sea
Spa Hotel, this facility draws upon the unique beauty and the natural healing elements of the
Dead Sea, providing an ideal setting for therapeutic treatments ranging from anti-stress therapy,
spa massages and mud packs to ultrasound therapy, galvanic therapy, microwave therapy,
cryotherapy and hydrotherapy.
In addition to private treatment rooms, the Medical Centre features a saltwater swimming pool
for the care of skin diseases and joint disorders and private male and female solariums with direct
access to the Dead Sea.

The Resense Spa in Kempinski Hotel Ishtar, Dead Sea – is the largest spa in the region at 10,000 Sqm
(107,639 sq ft) and Jordan’s best hotel Spa for the year of 2015.
Every element of the spa is carefully designed to provide a classical service, a luxurious experience and
the element of surprise.
it offers 20 beautifully designed treatment rooms with private shower facilities, six outdoor individual
treatment and relaxation areas, hydro-facilities with a steam room, sauna, and whirlpool, Tepidarium
heated lounges, the Dead Sea pool and the largest hydro-pool in the Dead Sea.
There’s also a separate ladies-only area , and the spa is open daily from 10:00am to 10:00pm.

Zara Spa is one of the most advanced spa complexes in the Middle East and unique in Jordan, featuring 6,000 square metres dedicated to pampering the senses, relaxing, revitalising and refreshing the mind.
The professional team of therapists will guide you through the extensive facilities, offering hydro-pools, whirlpools, pools with varying saline concentration, steam rooms, tropical scent showers, 31 treatment rooms, a VIP royal therapy suite and up to 70 à la carte treatments and
massages. Entrance and treatment fees apply. Entrance to the spa is not allowed for guests below 18 years of age. Zara Spa. Facilities are available at both Moevenpick Dead Sea and Aqaba Tala Bay hotels, Open daily from 8.30 am to 8.30 pm.

Finding sanctuary within sanctuary, the world class Crowne Plaza Spa is an escape in itself. It is here that you will embark on a journey that is rewarding, energizing, positive, and entirely yours. Spread over 6,000 square meters, the Spa is a wonderful destination to restore, regroup, and simply be.
Sohum Spa stand out because of this unique approach to health and healing. The therapists are themselves practitioners of mind-body balance to ensure that they operate from balance. The Facility is a comprehensive haven of leisure where you can forget the whole world behind and enjoy tremendous relaxation feel, It includes 30 Treatment rooms with private shower & a bathroom, 2 indoor heated Hydrotherapy Pools, Dead Sea Salt Water Pool, Outdoor Jacuzzi, Fitness Centre and a Beauty Salon offering professional manicure and pedicure. Open daily from 8.30 am to 8.30 pm.

The classically designed Spa sits directly under one of the natural hot spring waterfalls that elegantly cascades into the main pool and relaxation area. Treatments focus on the therapeutic properties of the mineral rich waters, offering healing mineral and deep sea therapies combined with Asian signature treatments to ensure pure pampering in the hands of expertly trained Spa therapists. The Spa is perfect for a day out for the ladies; massages, facials, sauna room, steam room, a meditation room and everything you need to relax and let go. Entrance and treatment fees apply.

Gaia’s Cocoon Spa in Amman is Jordan’s best and ultimate 7 star spa. It was made with luxury in mind and is a Women’s only spa. It provides services that range from massages, manicure and pedicure, facials, hammams, body toning and weight loss and much more. Their staff comes from all over the world, Thailand, Russia, Philippines, Morocco, and each is an expert in the service she performs. If you are looking for the ultimate pampering and relaxation experience, then Gaia’s Cocoon 7 star spa and lounge is one of the best destination. The harmonic balance between regenerating ingredients and individually matched mentoring creates the perfect refreshing experience and an unforgettable stay..
Open daily from 9.30 am to 7.30 pm.

The Spa at The Jordan Valley Marriott Dead Sea Resort & Spa finds ways to immerse you in the spirit of your setting. Enjoy an ultimate day of relaxation at The Spa as you unwind and refresh in style. Our
products from the Dead Sea and traditional healing techniques will work wonders on the body and soul. Over decades of spa leadership, The Jordan Valley Marriott is continually redefining the ultimate spa
experience. This world-class spa features tranquil indoor relaxation areas, showers, steam areas, whirlpools and a Dead Sea Salt pool. With luxuriously tranquil surroundings, delights to refresh each sense and intuitive care that takes on deeper meaning in The Spa, your feeling of well-being lingers long after your farewell. Appointment is Required.

The best choice in Aqaba town for tourists who want to experience a truly oriental spa designed for woman offering special signature treatments, using natural products from the Dead Sea.Janna Beauty & Fitness ClubLeader in improving the health, beauty and wellness of our community by providing inspired treatments & the best fitness facilities, teaching our clients healthy practices, and fostering wellness education. Services: oriental hammam bath, relaxing massage, sauna & jacuzzi, hair styling, facial and body treatments, manicure & pedicure, and specific complimentary product offerings. Other services: Coffee Shop & Kids Playground.

The King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Centre sits on the shore of the Dead Sea, 45
kilometres from Amman. Besides conventions, the KHBTCC caters to large corporate launches, gala dinners
and cocktail receptions, as well as exhibitions, workshops and team building activities. High profile international events converge on the centre, including the World Economic Forum, International Monetary Fund, United Nations, UNICEF and Jordan Travel Mart. The Philadelphia Hall provides over 2000 square metres of pillar-less space, seating up to 3000. Its 25 meeting halls have large wrap-around
terraces, suitable for breakouts or evening receptions.

Jordan’s finest and leading MICE venue is situated in the heart of Amman. Adjacent to the Grand Hyatt Amman Hotel, Zara Expo offers state-of-the-art facilities and professional services. The exhibition facilities at Zara Expo consist of three purpose built exhibition halls providing almost 3,000 m2 of high-quality, air-conditioned exhibition space and a 297-seat Conference Auditorium. Each exhibition hall has its own foyer, with organizers’ offices and a dedicated registration desk, as well as
under-floor service channels for single phase and communication services. The Conference Auditorium is located above the exhibition halls, and can be used as a main conference auditorium, theatre, concert hall, cinema or lecture hall.

(AIMS) established in Jordan in 1988, and now considered the largest fair ground in Jordan and one of the largest fair ground in the Arab region. Over the years about 200 international exhibitions took place in this hall. The name of this hall was founded from the most important exhibition that has been organized by the Hall Management starting from 1998 and this exhibition related to the Automotive. Amman International Motor Show AIMS is an Exhibition Centre located in Amman, Jordan. Top Organizers hosting events at Amman International Motor Show AIMS include Orange Fairs & Events, MEORIENT International Exhibition, Petra Conferences & Exhibitions , and more. Events being organized at the venue are
of Agriculture & Forestry, Building Construction, Chemicals & Dyes, Textile, Fabrics & Yarns, Furniture, Travel & Tourism etc. Amman International Motor Show AIMS is best suited for events such as Trade Fairs, Exhibitions and Tradeshows etc.

Jerash is the only place in the world where Roman army, gladiators and chariot racing
performances can be experienced in a genuine Roman setting. It is a truly exciting and unique
experience that you will want to see again ..in the Hippodrome. This show consists of some
40 gladiators engaging in ancient battle tactics, fighting and competing in chariot races.

The Jordan Hejaz Railway Corporation organizes regular weekly trips and in holidays along with customized trips to many stations , Hejaz Railway is a 100 year old heritage rail line that is still in use in Jordan. Watch the re-creation of Arab Revolution show to live through it. It is now 1916. The desert seems tranquil but the winds of change are blowing. The Ottomans are trying desperately to retain control as the fate of their vast empire hangs in the balance. Against this backdrop, guests can join a detachment of Ottoman troops as they raid a Hijazi train. Quiet descends and with it, enough time for some story telling. The quiet is short-lived. Across the sands, warriors emerge: some on horse, some on camel – and all with a desire to control their own destiny. Guests witness the explosions and gunfire and realize that this is how nations are often born.Shows are performed in 3 places , Petra , Wadi Rum and Shoba.

The Bani Hamida Women’s Weaving Project, originated by the Save the Children Federation in 1985 and merged into the Jordan River Foundation in 1998, revived traditional Bedouin rug weaving, helping to maintain the social fabric of the Makawir area. Older women in the community were eager to pass on rugweaving techniques to younger generations. Today, women in 13 villages keep this tradition alive, while contributing to the betterment of the quality of life of their families. Using home-made ground looms and wooden spindles, the project rejuvenated the unique warp-faced flat weave in pure wool, along with the colors and particular designs representing Jordan’s unrivalled traditional rug
making. The rugs were an instant hit when they were commercially introduced and have created a unique image for the Bani Hamida Mountain and its women. As the project grew throughout the years, it has become the largest and most famous rug weaving project in Jordan and the neighboring countries. Since its
inception, the project employed 24 full-time employees, benefited over 1650 wage-based women and over 1.5 million Jordanian Dinars have been paid to spinners, weavers and dyers who have produced the superior quality pure wool rugs that travel the world with a “Handmade With Pride by Bedouin Jordanian
Women” ticket.

Jordan Jewel Art & Mosaic was established in 2008 to be a money-generating project in Madaba, Jordan (35km south Amman), but, due to social and philanthropic developments, the project transformed to serve nobel purposes, leaving profitability behind. Today, the project supports hundreds of families through
out the hand work of their free lance sons and daughters the majority of whom suffer handicaps. Most families’ hopes and dreams are coming true, like giving their children the opportunity to have proper education, medical care, and life with decent welfare.

The Dead Sea Panorama Complex/Dead Sea Museum; 300M below Sea Level ; is a new complex of regional museum about the Dead Sea, panorama lookout, restaurant and conference hall on a steep cliff high above the Dead Sea near Hammamet Ma’in it is accessible from both the Dead Sea and Madaba .The museum is run by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, and has some fascinating information about the geology, ecology (animal and plant), archaeology, history and industry of the Dead Sea and surrounding area. It has also information about the environmental problem concerning the Dead Sea, such as decreasing of the Dead Sea water level and sinkhole in the Dead Sea coast. As the name suggests it has a magnificent view of the Dead Sea and the hills beyond it. Watching the sunset from there is a wonderful experience.

Little Petra is an archeological site, located 10 km from the main entrance to the city of Petra. Beida is surrounded by beautiful, high pink mountains and divided into two main sites, which are
connected by a narrow walkway. Each of these sites is featuring an amazing Nabatean monument, This theme dinner is specially designed for incentives and high luxurious groups, representing
the highlight of their tour in Jordan. Parties can be arranged for groups of up to 350 guests. Special effects , decorations, candle lights and set-up makes it real. Guests are transferred to an era and a world away. Procedures to rent the venue should start in advance.