Best of Aqaba

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Aqaba
Perched along Jordan’s tiny coastline, which stretches just 16 miles (26km), Aqaba is a popular getaway for its palm-backed beaches and immersive adventures on the Red Sea. The city itself has a handful of historical attractions, including a 16th-century fort and the ruins of an ancient church. The fine assortment of seaside hotels and eclectic restaurants also makes Aqaba an appealing stopover after visiting Petra or Wadi Rum

Aqaba has been an important port since the Iron Age, and the artifact-filled Aqaba Archeological Museum sheds light on the many cultures that have inhabited the area. For most visitors, the highlight is what lies just beyond the shoreline: you’ll find vibrant coral reefs and colorful tropical fish on snorkeling and diving tours in the Red Sea, and you can also opt for glass-bottom boat tours or leisurely sunset cruises. Boat trips to Pharaoh’s Island offer some great snorkeling, as well as the opportunity to explore a historic Crusader castle. 
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Golden Triangle & Dead Sea - 5 Days
Map of Golden Triangle & Dead Sea - 5 Days
Golden Triangle & Dead Sea - 5 Days

Grab your camera and your sense of adventure and make your way around Jordan's famous southern sites. From the red city of Petra to the desert wilderness of Wadi Rum to the Red Sea port city of Aqaba, this tour offers a taste of everything the south has to offer!

Spend two days soaking up the sun and swimming in the Red Sea in Aqaba
Map of Ultimate Jordan: Amman to the Red Sea - 12 Days
Ultimate Jordan: Amman to the Red Sea - 12 Days

This 12-day tour of Jordan features a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Starting in the country's north, you'll admire the evocative ruins of Amman and Jerash, visit towering castles and ancient mosaics, and go for a dip in the salty waters of the Dead Sea. Continue south down the legendary King's Highway to explore the lost city of Petra, camp on the red sands of Wadi Rum, and enjoy the beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea.

Jerusalem
Map of Jordan and Holy Land Tour - 14 Days
Jordan and Holy Land Tour - 14 Days

Explore the most religiously significant area in the world and its most breathtaking historic and natural sights, from Wadi Rum to the Sea of Galilee, the heart of Jerusalem to the distant ruins of Umm Qais. This two-week-long tour takes you across Jordan, Israel, and the West Bank to uncover a rich historical legacy as well as understand the multiple cultures that call the Holy Land home.

Palms along the Red Sea beaches of Aqaba
Classic Jordan: Aqaba, Wadi Rum, Petra & Amman - 5 Days

This quick, 5-day getaway is the perfect introduction to Jordan's Golden Triangle—a region rich with stunning scenery and ancient wonders. Start at the Red Sea port of Aqaba for some laid-back beach time and watersports, then transfer deep into Wadi Rum for an off-road adventure among the desert dunes. After a day exploring the mysteries of Petra, head north along the historic King's Highway to end your trip in the vibrant capital of Amman.

A sunset over the Dead Sea
Map of Highlights of Jordan: Amman, The Dead Sea, Petra, & Aqaba - 8 Days
Highlights of Jordan: Amman, The Dead Sea, Petra, & Aqaba - 8 Days

Your first three nights will be in Amman—which offers the perfect blend of modern life among ancient ruins—and you'll discover Amman's ancient temples and Mosques, visit the Seven Sleepers Cave, and take a day trip through Jordan's Eastern Desert to Azraq. You'll then visit the Sahabbab Shrines on your way to the Dead Sea where you'll spend one night. The next two nights will be spent in Petra, where you'll visit the famous temples made of red-colored rock and then take a tour through the Wadi Rum Desert before spending your final night in Aqaba.

Looking up at Petra
Map of Highlights of Jordan - 10 Days
Highlights of Jordan - 10 Days

Travel for 10 days through the highlights of Jordanian history, both popular and lesser-known. See the famous UNESCO site at Petra and Wadi Rum, stroll through Roman ruins, scope out Byzantine mosaics, and climb through desert castles, with some seaside time alongside.

Climb to the Monastery in Petra
Ancient Jordan & the Golden Triangle: Cities, Deserts & Seas - 15 Days

From Amman to the Dead Sea, this 15-day grand tour immerses you in the incredible culture, history, and hospitality of Jordan. Tour the ancient cities of Jerash and Umm Qais, climb through sandstone canyons to Petra's Monastery, and watch the sunrise over the desert from a Bedouin camp. After some free time on the beaches of Aqaba, you'll head back to the capital via the otherworldly shores of the Dead Sea.

Views across the Red Sea at Aqaba
Ancient Jordan & the Golden Triangle - 11 Days

Discover Jordan from north to south on this eventful, 11-day itinerary. Start in Amman to tour ancient cities and desert fortresses, then head south into the Golden Triangle, where cultural antiquities and breathtaking landscapes abound. Stroll through the hidden wonders of Petra and take an off-road adventure into the Wadi Rum, then switch gears for some relaxing downtime on the shores of the Red and Dead Seas.

Discover the highlights that Jordan's capital city has to offer
Map of Jordan in 7 Days - Amman, Jerash, Mt Nebo, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba and the Dead Sea
Jordan in 7 Days - Amman, Jerash, Mt Nebo, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba and the Dead Sea

Perfect for travelers ready for a full week of adventure, this 7-day, 6-night itinerary prioritizes Jordan's best-loved landmarks. You'll bask in the beauty of the Dead Sea, take in panoramic views from the temples of Petra, and camp in Wadi Rum's desert wilderness, finally returning home with a satisfying slice of the country's rich heritage.

Spend a day at UNESCO-listed Petra
Map of Highlights of Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum, & Dead Sea - 7 Days
Highlights of Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum, & Dead Sea - 7 Days

This exciting Middle Eastern adventure gets to the heart of hospitable Jordan in just one week. Starting in the capital of Amman, you'll visit ancient Roman ruins, experience the UNESCO-listed sites of Petra and Wadi Rum, and see Byzantine mosaics in Madaba Archaeological Park. You'll also have two days to enjoy the Red Sea and Dead Sea, respectively, and spend a night in a luxury Bedouin Camp for stargazing.

Snorkel off the coast of Aqaba in the Gulf of Aqaba
Map of Discover Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea  - 7 Days
Discover Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea - 7 Days

Enjoy one week exploring Jordan's cherished landmarks as you take in the country's rich heritage. You'll begin and end in the bustling capital of Amman where you'll cover some major ground, from the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea, to the Crusader castle in Karak and the Church of Moses on top of biblical Mount Nebo. You'll swim in the Red Sea, sleep under the stars in a Bedouin-style tent, and marvel at the ancient tombs and temples of Petra.

Glimpses of Petra from the Siq
Jordan's Golden Triangle: Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum & the Dead Sea - 6 Days

This 6-day itinerary takes you on a journey through the highlights of Jordan's Golden Triangle—home to some of the country's most famous archaeological and natural wonders. From the hidden temples of Petra to the red deserts of Wadi Rum, you'll explore diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks before heading north to end your adventure strolling through the Red Sea port of Aqaba and relaxing in the tranquil waters of the Dead Sea.

Petra from a different perspective
Jordan Highlights: Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum & Dead Sea - 7 Days

This 7-day itinerary of Jordan whisks you through the country's highlights, including the unmissable Petra, Wadi Rum, Roman ruins, Byzantine mosaics, and Crusader castles. You'll have lots of time to float in the famous Dead Sea, and can take advantage of opportunities to personalize your trip with a smattering of unique options!

Petra: one of the Seven Wonders of the World
Relaxed Jordan: Amman, the Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum & Aqaba - 7 Days

Explore the best of Jordan in this relaxed tour through the country's landmarks and highlights: visit the capital city of Amman, float in the Dead Sea, and spend two nights at the UNESCO Heritage Site of Petra, discovering its back roads. You'll also spend the night in Wadi Rum and stop at a number of incredible historical gems as you travel through this incredibly rich country in the Middle East.

Enjoy beach time and watersports on the Red Sea in Jordan's only coastal city, Aqaba
Map of Jordan Grand Tour: Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba & the Dead Sea - 13 Days
Jordan Grand Tour: Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba & the Dead Sea - 13 Days

From the northern capital of Amman to the southern coastal city of Aqaba, this 13-day tour introduces you to Jordan's highlights, both natural and cultural. Start with tours of the UNESCO-listed sites around Amman, then it's off to ancient Petra via Mount Nebo and Madaba. Venture into the Wadi Rum desert by Jeep, grab some beach time on the Red Sea, and float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea. Wrap things up back in the capital with a craft brewery tour and a hike in nearby As-Salt.

Explore the Dana Biosphere Reserve and visit the stone village of Dana
Map of Highlights of Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, & More - 14 Days
Highlights of Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, & More - 14 Days

This two-week tour of Jordan covers cultural highlights and lesser-known attractions. Start in Amman and travel the length of the country from the hills of Umm Qais down to Aqaba on the Red Sea. Along the way, you'll discover the ancient city of Petra, camp in Wadi Rum, and float in the Dead Sea. You'll also tour Crusader-era castles, hike in the Dana Biosphere Reserve, and visit the Byzantine mosaics of Madaba.

Head to the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea, to float in the salty waters
Map of Jordan Grand Tour: Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba & the Dead Sea - 15 Days
Jordan Grand Tour: Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba & the Dead Sea - 15 Days

In just over two weeks, you'll discover Jordan's ancient ruins, natural landscapes, and rich culture with this far-reaching itinerary. Check off the capital's highlights, take a day trip to Jerash and Ajloun Castle, and journey to Petra for a hike to its iconic Monastery. Camp among Wadi Rum's desert dunes, then head to the shores of the Red Sea for sun, sand, and snorkeling. After a break by the Dead Sea, return to Amman to sample local wines, tour a women's cooperative, and peruse the Royal Automobile Museum.

Bedouin camels rest outside the Treasury at Petra
Map of Family Trip to Jordan:  Petra, Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, & More – 8 Days
Family Trip to Jordan: Petra, Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, & More – 8 Days

This well-rounded tour is designed to suit families and has something for everyone. Visit the ruins of Gerasa and stay in a Bedouin camp in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wadi Rum. See the holy Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics at Madaba and frolic on the beach at Aqaba. Add to this Petra and the Dead Sea and you have the complete highlights of Jordan.

Wander amid the ruins of the former Roman Empire at the Amman Citadel
Map of Experience Jordan: Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum, & More - 10 Days
Experience Jordan: Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum, & More - 10 Days

Experience the best of Jordan from the northwestern tip in Umm Qais down to Aqaba at the Red Sea. Enjoy ten days visiting main attractions like the "Lost City" of Petra, the bustling capital of Amman, the salty Dead Sea, and the wilds of Wadi Rum. Along the way, you'll wander amid ancient Roman ruins in Jerash, discover the historic Ajloun Crusader castle, and look out onto the Judean Desert from atop biblical Mount Nebo.

Explore the ancient Nabataean treasures of Petra
Map of Classic Highlights of Jordan: Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum & Dead Sea - 8 Days
Classic Highlights of Jordan: Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum & Dead Sea - 8 Days

Visit Jordan's most iconic destinations on this eight-day tour. You'll discover ancient Roman ruins in Amman and Jerash, then spend a full day wandering through the red city of Petra. The journey continues to the desert wilderness of Wadi Rum, where you'll gaze at the stars from a Bedouin camp. From here, you'll travel to Aqaba to swim and snorkel on the sunny Red Sea coast, ending the adventure with a float on the Dead Sea.

Section of the King's Highway
Map of Highlights of Jordan by Bike - 8 Days
Highlights of Jordan by Bike - 8 Days

Explore the deserts and seasides of Jordan via bike on this eight-day trip. You'll start with the city of Amman, then tour the ruins at Jerash and archaeological sites at Madaba on the shores of the Red Sea. Follow the King's Highway to Kerak Castle, cycle through the Wadi Araba desert and camp under the stars, and see the famous monuments of Petra and sand dunes of Wadi Rum, all under your own steam.

The Golden Gate at Jerusalem's Temple Mount
Jordan & Israel Panorama - 13 Days

Explore some of the most important cultural and religious sites of the Middle East on this 13-day journey through Jordan and Israel. After checking off Jordanian highlights like Amman, Petra, and the Dead Sea, you'll cross the border into Israel to gaze across the Sea of Galilee in Tiberias, stroll through ancient olive groves in the Garden of Gethsemane, and discover historic and holy landmarks throughout Jerusalem's Old City.

Spend a night in the red deserts of Wadi Rum and explore rock formations and dunes by Jeep
Map of Jordan Grand Tour: Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba & the Dead Sea - 16 Days
Jordan Grand Tour: Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba & the Dead Sea - 16 Days

Get to know Jordan in-depth with this comprehensive 16-day highlights tour. Indulge in local cuisine and hunt for colorful street art in Amman, then set out on day trips to Jerash, Ajloun Castle, and the Desert Castle Loop. Head for Petra next to explore its sandstone treasures before journeying into Wadi Rum for Jeep adventures and camel rides. Trade the desert for the sea with snorkeling off Aqaba and swims in the Dead Sea, then return to the capital for wine tasting and a visit to a local women's co-op.

End your trip floating in the soothing waters of the Dead Sea
Map of Ancient Jordan & the Golden Triangle - 9 Days
Ancient Jordan & the Golden Triangle - 9 Days

Culture and history meet beach vacation on this nine-day journey through Jordan. Start in Amman and make your way south along the King's Highway toward Petra—visiting museums, mountains, and castles en route. After touring the temples and canyons of the "Rose City," venture into the desert of Wadi Rum for off-road explorations and Bedouin-style camping. Transfer to Aqaba to soak up some sun on the Red Sea, then head north to the Dead Sea to end your trip floating in its blissful waters.

The Holy Land
Map of Biblical Jordan and Israel: Tel Aviv,  Tiberias, Jerusalem, Amman & More - 14 Days
Biblical Jordan and Israel: Tel Aviv, Tiberias, Jerusalem, Amman & More - 14 Days

This 14-day tour of the Holy Land starts off in Israel and takes you to Bethlehem, the Galilee, and other Biblical sites, before continuing in Jordan, with stops at Bethany Beyond the Jordan, Mount Nebo, and Elijah's Hill. Combine these holy sites with visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra, a night in the Wadi Rum desert, and a chance to float on the Dead Sea.

Follow your guide down the Siq Trail in the Mujib Nature Reserve
Map of Jordan's Natural Wonders: Amman, Dana, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba & Dead Sea - 11 Days
Jordan's Natural Wonders: Amman, Dana, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba & Dead Sea - 11 Days

Outdoor adventures abound on this 11-day exploration of Jordan's most spectacular deserts, forests, and canyons. Go bird-watching in the wetlands of Azraq, hike through the unique ecosystems of Dana and Ajloun, camp on the red sands of Wadi Rum, and trek along the river canyon of Wadi Mujib. In between active excursions, you'll tour iconic cultural sites like Petra, Jerash, and Umm Qais—then relax and unwind on the beaches of the Red and Dead Seas.

Wadi Rum
Map of Highlights of Jordan and Israel:  Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Petra, Wadi Rum and More - 14 Days
Highlights of Jordan and Israel: Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Petra, Wadi Rum and More - 14 Days

This 14-day itinerary through Jordan and Israel gives visitors a chance to combine the highlights of Jordan with all of Israel's major attractions, including stops in Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Haifa, and the Galilee. Explore the red dunes of Wadi Rum, go snorkeling in the Gulf of Aqaba, float on the surface of the Dead Sea and more in this complete tour perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their two-week vacation. 

Visit the cliff-hanging St. George Monastery in Israel's Wadi Qelt
Map of Highlights of the Holy Land: Israel, Jordan & Egypt - 14 Days
Highlights of the Holy Land: Israel, Jordan & Egypt - 14 Days

This complete two-week itinerary features Israel's Holy Land in addition to significant historical and religious sites in Jordan and Egypt. Follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ as you explore Jerusalem, Nazareth, and Bethlehem, dive into the Crusader past and wander ancient Caesarea, Acre, and Haifa, cross the border into Jordan and explore the "Lost City" of Petra, and ride a ferry across the Gulf of Aqaba to Egypt to hike Mount Sinai. You'll float in the Dead Sea, sleep in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum, and discover the beautiful Byzantine mosaics in Madaba.

Women walking along the ancient amphitheater of Amman
Jordan History & Heritage: Amman, Petra & Wadi Rum - 7 Days

From the earliest human settlements to thriving modern cities, you'll delve deep into the cultural history of Jordan on this fascinating, week-long itinerary. Tour Roman ruins and modernist mosques in Amman, then head south to explore the archaeological wonders of Petra. After a night of Bedouin hospitality in the rugged deserts of Wadi Rum, you'll make your way back to the capital—stopping off for a quick dip in the Dead Sea along the way.

Other popular travel destinations in Jordan
Petra · Amman · Wadi Rum · The Dead Sea · Dana · Madaba · Feynan · Ajloun · Umm Qais · Little Petra