Sports and leisure activities Jordan

Budget & Tips

Although hiking is free (except in the Natural Reserves or in tourist sites such as Petra), we recommend that you hire the services of a guide. The trails are often unmarked and the desert is a hostile environment. Your guide knows the way, the water points, the sources of supplies and how to reach help in case of need.

What's very local

Turkish baths are generally open between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m., sometimes a little later in the evening, especially on weekend evenings (Thursday and Friday in Jordan). It takes around 30 DJ to succumb to the full Turkish bath treatment, including baths at different temperatures, an energetic scrub, an invigorating massage and mint tea. Women may want to try their hand at a traditional beauty salon with caramel waxing and threaded eyebrows. A must if you have a Jordanian girlfriend or a long-term resident.

Your documents please

Aqaba is a mecca for diving in the Red Sea. You will need to provide diving certification, proof of diving within the last 6 months and a recent medical certificate in English.

To be booked

Activities and accommodation promoted by Wild Jordan must be booked in advance, as must meals. You can contact them on your arrival in Amman by visiting their offices or by e-mail before your departure.

Flying over Wadi Rum in a hot-air balloon is another activity that requires advance booking (24 to 48 hours are sufficient).

Main events

The Jerash Festival, held in July, attracts large numbers of local and international tourists. The Diseh Camel Festival, held at the Diseh Camelodrome in December, attracts large numbers of participants and spectators from all over the Arab world. Hotels and camps are often full during this period.

Tourist traps

Jordan is a safe country. You won't be exposed to any particular scams during your stay. Star gazers may come and disturb you at your camp in Wadi Rum, but they won't insist.