Jordan is a Middle Eastern gem that greets you with desert dunes, mountain trails, and seashores. The country’s landscape ranges from the red sands of Wadi Rum to the blue waters of the Red Sea. Here, every corner offers a new adventure. Plus, renting a car in Jordan makes it easy to uncover hidden gems beyond the usual tourist paths.
Jordan is a great destination for German travelers looking for adventure, history, and culture. The country’s famous spots, like Petra and Wadi Rum, offer exciting experiences. With charter flights from Europe, it’s now easier and quicker for German tourists to visit.
Jordan fits well with European tastes, from the historic Petra ruins to eco-friendly activities like diving in Aqaba. The country’s focus on responsible tourism and protecting nature and history makes it a perfect place for German travelers who care about sustainability.
Jordan also works hard to make travel easy for everyone. The country has been improving its facilities to make them accessible for people with disabilities. German tourists can enjoy all of Jordan’s attractions without worrying about access, from Wadi Rum adventures to relaxing by the Dead Sea.
Exploring Jordan's outdoors is much easier when you have your car. A car makes accessing remote hiking spots like Wadi Mujib or Dana much easier. These areas are far from the bus routes and can only be reached by car.
You can drive straight to the trailheads and explore some of Jordan’s most stunning, secluded spots with your vehicle. Many of these places, like hidden wadis or quiet villages, make self-driving an ideal option for anyone wanting to experience the country's beauty.
Public transport is not very well developed in Jordan. Also, Jordan is a small country, and during your trip, you’ll be at least five hours on the road. Renting a car is simple and convenient. You can pick up a rental at major airports like Amman or Aqaba. There's no need to arrange for additional transfers.
However, using GPS or offline maps for navigation is a good idea, as some desert or mountain roads have weak signal coverage.
From red desert cliffs to green valleys, outdoor adventures in Jordan offer unforgettable thrills and diverse scenery. These activities will be memorable things to do in Jordan for nature-loving visitors. Here’s a list of the top spots and experiences in the country:
Hiking in the Dana Biosphere Reserve offers a unique adventure in Jordan’s largest nature reserve, which spans canyons and mountains in the country’s south. The trails wind through red-rock cliffs and lush valley oases, where hikers can spot rare birds or ibex.
One of the popular routes is the Wadi Dana Trail, a 16 km path that descends from Dana Village to the Feynan Ecolodge. It offers stunning views of diverse ecosystems, including sandstone cliffs and lush valleys, and typically takes 4 to 6 hours to complete.
For those seeking a more challenging route, the Wadi Ghuweir Trail is a 17 km adventure that takes hikers through narrow gorges and pools, with an opportunity for rappelling in certain sections. This trail is a bit more demanding, taking around 5 to 7 hours to finish.
Tips for Hiking in Dana Biosphere Reserve
For a moderate hike, plan on spending about 3 to 5 hours. Longer trails can take a full day or more, depending on the route. Gear up with sturdy hiking boots, a sun hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Bring a light jacket if you plan to stay late, as temperatures drop quickly at night.
The best time to visit is early morning when temperatures are cooler and wildlife is more active. Late afternoon is also ideal, but finish your hike before dark.
Wadi Rum is one of Jordan's most famous desert landscapes, known for its towering sandstone mountains and vast, open sand dunes. The area offers an exceptional camping experience, immersing visitors in the serene beauty of the desert. Whether you explore the area by jeep, camel, or foot, the experience allows you to connect with nature.
Jeep tours, lasting 2 to 4 hours, are a great way to explore the vast desert. It can take you to landmarks like the Seven Pillars of Wisdom and ancient petroglyphs, with views of the rock formations.
For a more traditional experience, camel rides provide a relaxed way to navigate the dunes. Stargazing is another highlight, with clear desert skies offering an uninterrupted view of constellations and planets.
Tips for Camping in Wadi Rum
Most travelers spend 1 to 2 nights in Wadi Rum to fully experience the desert’s activities. If you plan on doing more activities, consider a three-night stay. Comfortable footwear is essential for walking on uneven, sandy terrain. The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November, when the weather is milder.
The Dead Sea is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Jordan due to its therapeutic properties. Here, you can float effortlessly on the salty waters. They have a mineral-rich composition that makes them incredibly buoyant. The unique experience of floating on the surface without effort is the region's highlight.
Beyond floating, the mud from the Dead Sea is famous for its skin-healing properties. Applying the mud as a face or body mask is great for rejuvenation. The mineral content in the mud helps detoxify and soften the skin, making it an excellent choice for spa-like relaxation.
Tips for Swimming in the Dead Sea
Spend a few hours enjoying the floating experience and mud mask. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, especially during summer. Be sure to bring sunscreen, as the reflection from the water can intensify sun exposure. The high salt content can irritate cuts or sensitive areas, such as the eyes or mucous membranes. Always rinse off with fresh water after swimming to avoid discomfort.
Wadi Mujib is a natural reserve located near the Dead Sea. The Siq Trail, its most popular route, takes you through a deep river gorge surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs. As you walk, the canyon narrows, and the rock walls' vibrant orange and pink hues create a dramatic backdrop.
Along the way, you’ll encounter waterfalls and natural pools. The towering canyon walls, sometimes just a few meters apart, enhance the sense of adventure as you trek through the river.
Tips for Hiking in Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve
The best time to hike is in the morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. The trail can be slippery, so wear sturdy water shoes or sandals with a good grip. Be prepared to get wet, as you’ll wade through the river and climb waterfalls. Bring a waterproof bag to protect your belongings. It’s best to hike with a friend or group for extra support and safety.
Ajloun Forest Reserve in northern Jordan is a haven for hikers looking to explore the country’s natural beauty. The reserve features lush pine forests, rolling hills, and scenic views, making it one of the best hiking spots in Jordan.
The main trail is about 4 kilometers long and takes approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete, but visitors can opt for longer routes if they wish to explore deeper into the reserve. Ajloun is also home to the Ajloun Castle, which offers historical insights and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Tips for Trekking the Ajloun to Rasoun Trail
When trekking the Ajloun to Rasoun Trail, prepare for varying terrain and elevation changes. The trail offers scenic views of olive groves, pine forests, and hillside farms. The best time to hike this trail is in the spring or autumn, when lush greenery and colorful foliage are in season.
Wadi Hidan is a hidden gem nestled near Madaba in central Jordan. This black-basalt canyon offers a natural obstacle course filled with adventure. You'll hike, swim, scramble over rocks, and jump into cool pools. The canyon's narrow passages and small waterfalls make it a thrilling experience. The dramatic backdrop of dark volcanic basalt contrasts beautifully with the emerald pools.
Canyoning here is an adrenaline rush, ideal for those exploring Jordan's rugged landscapes. The guided canyoning trip typically takes 3 hours.
Tips for Canyoning in Wadi Hidan
When preparing for canyoning in Wadi Hidan, wear sturdy, closed-toe water shoes and quick-dry clothing, as the terrain can be rough and wet. The best time to visit Wadi Hidan is late morning to early afternoon when the sun is overhead. Avoid visiting during the rainy season or when rain is forecast, as flash floods can pose a danger in narrow canyons.
The Ma'in Hot Springs are a natural oasis known for their healing properties. The springs are set against a dramatic backdrop of rocky cliffs, with cascading waterfalls feeding into warm pools. As you immerse yourself in the hot springs, the surrounding beauty of the desert and lush green valleys enhances the tranquil experience.
These natural hot springs provide not just a chance to relax, but also an opportunity to indulge in the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters. Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours soaking in the springs and enjoying the surrounding area.
Tips for Visiting Ma’in Hot Springs
When planning your visit to the Ma'in Hot Springs, wear swimwear and bring a towel to dry off afterward. The warm waters range from 42°C to 63°C, so take breaks and do not stay in for too long. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to April. Summer can be extremely hot, so visit early in the morning or late in the evening.
Jordan attracts German adventurers with its natural beauty, thrilling activities, and welcoming culture. The journey brings new excitement and discovery from hiking up mountain trails to floating in the Dead Sea. To make the most of this journey, consider renting a car with Finalrentals. FinalRentals offers reliable cars and wide availability across Jordan, so you can focus on the fun and the sights ahead.
