Jordan
Desert cities and nomadic cultures
Rich in archaeological heritage, Jordan has been at the centre of history-altering civilisations even before the ancient Nabateans founded their now famous sandstone-carved capital and the Romans built marvellous cities on the edge of their empire. Few experiences in the world come close to the pure awe of seeing Petra’s Treasury for the first time, as it becomes visible through a narrow slit in the canyon. Further east, bouncing through the otherworldly deserts of Wadi Rum in the back of a pickup truck makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet — and perhaps you have: the Valley of the Moon has moonlighted as the red planet in The Martian.
Often unfairly lumped together with its troubled neighbours, Jordan remains stable and ever-welcoming. The country’s culture is deeply underpinned by Bedouin traditions, with the memory of Jordanians’ generosity and lively spirit one of the best souvenirs you can take home.
Hidden gems in Jordan
Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum
Rising from the desert plains, the orange sandstone rocks and mountains of Wadi Rum provide a backdrop to this most Martian of landscapes. Not only can you follow in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia but experience a different way of life through the eyes of the Bedouin tribes who have lived in these lands for centuries. It is possible to trek Wadi Rum without a guide but having local knowledge can allow hikers to go off-trail and discover gems that would otherwise appear hidden or time-consuming to locate. Need to know My favourite Wadi Rum highlights include a scramble to the top of Lawrence's Spring, walking through the colourful Canyon of Al Mahama and seeking out rock bridges with natural arches, which will have you reaching for your camera. These sites can be packed with holidaymakers at certain times of the day, often on a one-day jeep excursion. However, the crowds can be avoided by taking a multi-day trekking tour and seeing these magnificent structures on foot.
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