Jordan

Types of trips: Exploration, Nature, Culture, Cuisine, Adventure

Best known for: The city of Petra, River Jordan, Ancient ruins

Why Go?: Beyond the well known city of Petra, Jordan is a country filled with things to see and do - with numerous ancient ruins, magical explorations into the wilderness, food unlike anything you've ever tasted and a friendly local population, Jordan is a country not to be overlooked when considering destinations in the Middle East!

Fact File

Population: 6,700,000

Capital: Amman

Language(s): Arabic

Ties to the UK?: Good relationship, fairly popular travel destination

Landscape: Generally quite flat and dry, with some bodies of water and a highland area with forests.

Climate/Seasons: Dry and hot in the summer, with quite cool winters. The majority of the rain falls in winter and more frequent the closer to the Mediterranean you are in the country. 

When to Go: Spring (March - May) and autumn (September - November) are the best times to visit weather wise as the daytime temperatures are less extreme. 

Reasons to Visit: Local history and culture, food

How to Get There: There are a few international airports in the country, one of which you should be able to fly direct to from London. 

Places to Go: Qusayr Amra, Umm Al-Jimal Ruins, Castle of Herod the Great

Famous People: Abdullah II, Queen Rania, Ayah Marar, Suleiman Mousa

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Dana Biosphere Reserve, Azraq Wetland Reserve 

History: Under British supervision until it gained independence in 1946 

Architecture: Petra, Amman Citadel, Ajlun Castle

Culture: Religion and tradition are very important in Jordan's culture, and is an overwhelmingly Muslim country and considered quite cosmopolitan. 

Sport: Football, Rugby, Basketball, Cycling

Events: Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, Ramadan/Eid al-Fitr, Middle Eastern Dance Festival, Amman International Theatre Festival

Watch Out For: You will need a visa to enter the country from the UK - you can generally get these upon arrival, but be sure to check beforehand about what needs to be done to do so.  Also, avoid all large crowds and political gatherings if you can to be safe. 

Medical Issues: There are some advised vaccines and boosters for travel to Jordan - check this page for an overview and always consult with a doctor.