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Jordan - Petra Treasury ancient ruins cover photo

Things to Do in Aqaba, Jordan

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Most popular attractions in Aqaba, Jordan

The top things to do in Jordan include exploring Petra, especially the Treasury face carved into rose-red cliffs more than 2,000 years ago. Visitors also enjoy the vast Wadi Rum Protected Area with its dramatic desert landscapes. For relaxation, float effortlessly in the Dead Sea at Sweimeh, the lowest point on earth.

1. Aqaba Marine Park / Coral Reefs

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Aqaba

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Vibrant coral gardens are just offshore, perfect for quick snorkels or short dives. Expect turtles, colorful reef fish, and glass-clear water ideal for photos.

Quick facts: Shallow coral gardens lie close to shore, so colorful fish and branching corals are visible from a simple snorkel rather than a deep dive. On calm days water clarity exceeds 20 meters, and divers frequently spot hawksbill turtles, stingrays, and schooling reef fish within short swims.

Highlights: A single reef stretch hosts more than 250 recorded fish species and roughly 30 hard coral species, producing vivid mosaics of purple, orange, and lime green. Night dives reveal bright-green bioluminescent plankton and sleeping parrotfish, while shallow sand flats often hide sleeping turtles within ten meters of the reef edge.

Our #1 travel tip

Have you heard of free walking tours?

After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.

Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.

Local guide, 2-3 hours

Major sights, hidden gems, local stories

100% tip-based

Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best

You tip what feels right

At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right

I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Aqaba, Jordan, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.

Adrijana, founder of City Buddy

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Where to Stay in Aqaba, Jordan

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Traditional Sweet Dishes

Kunafeh

Kunafeh is eaten hot so the sweet cheese melts into long, stringy ribbons when served, and in Jordan it is a celebratory dessert often sprinkled with crushed pistachios.

Baklava

Baklava layers flaky filo with syrup and chopped nuts, and in Jordan it is a festival favorite that often uses orange blossom or rose water for a fragrant twist.

Basbousa

Basbousa is a semolina cake soaked in syrup, and its tender, grainy texture makes it a Ramadan and celebration staple across Jordanian homes.

Traditional Savory Dishes

Mansaf

Mansaf is Jordan’s national dish, lamb simmered in jameed, a fermented yogurt, and served communally over rice and flatbread to signal honor and hospitality.

Falafel

Falafel are crunchy chickpea patties that became a beloved street breakfast in Jordan, and they are traditionally eaten tucked into warm bread with pickles and tahini.

Hummus

Hummus is a creamy chickpea dip that doubles as food and social glue in Jordan, it is always served with olive oil and fresh bread for scooping.

Traditional Beverages

Arabic coffee

Arabic coffee in Jordan is lightly roasted and often spiced with cardamom, it is poured in tiny cups as a ritual of welcome and respect.

Tea with mint

Tea with mint is a ubiquitous gesture of hospitality in Jordan, it is usually served sweet and hot to greet guests and to wind down conversations.

Ayran

Ayran is a frothy, salted yogurt drink that refreshes the palate and pairs especially well with rich Jordanian dishes, it is both simple and incredibly cooling.

Frequently Asked Questions about Aqaba, Jordan

What is the best time to visit Jordan?

The best months to visit Jordan are March, April, May, September, October, and November. These months offer comfortable weather that is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the colder winter months.

Is Jordan expensive to travel to?

Jordan has an average cost of living of around $900 per month. It is moderately priced compared to many Western countries, making it relatively affordable for travelers seeking good accommodations and meals without overspending.

How safe is Jordan for tourists?

Jordan is generally considered safe for tourists. The country welcomes around 4,000,000 visitors per year and maintains a stable environment for travel. However, standard precautions should always be followed, especially when exploring less touristy areas.

How can I get around Jordan using public transport?

Public transport in Jordan has a score of 4 out of 10, indicating limited coverage and comfort. While buses and shared taxis are available, many travelers prefer renting a car or using private taxis for convenience and better access to key destinations.

How many tourists visit Jordan each year?

Jordan receives approximately 4,000,000 tourists annually. The country attracts visitors with its rich history, cultural sites, and natural landscapes, contributing significantly to its economy through tourism-related activities.