Planning your trip to Jordan to go from the ancient city of Petra to the Dead Sea means that you are a person passionate about entertainment, exploration, and discovering the secrets of what previous civilizations produced. Petra is that astonishing city carved into the rock, and the Dead Sea is that place that witnessed ancient religious rituals and saw many peoples and civilizations. It is also distinguished by its salinity and therapeutic properties, along with many activities on its shores.
Tourism in Jordan offers you a unique depth accompanied by the hospitality you will feel through your interaction with the kind and generous Jordanian people.
Petra: The Jewel of History in the Heart of the Desert
Petra is located in the Ma’an Governorate and was the capital of the ancient Nabataean Kingdom. It is known as the Rose City because of the soft pink hue of its rocks and its famous Treasury that was built in the second century AD. The streets of Petra and its carved palaces tell the story of a civilization distinguished by its mastery of irrigation and the construction of water channels, and its remains extend to the old trade routes that connected the Arabian Peninsula with the Mediterranean Sea. Heritage scholars have described it as one of the most precious cultural landmarks in the world, and it is the most iconic symbol of Jordan attracting visitors from around the globe, strengthening the reputation of tourism in Jordan.
The Dead Sea: A One-of-a-Kind Experience
The Dead Sea forms the lowest point of the Jordan Valley depression, at about 430 meters below sea level, and it is among the saltiest bodies of water in the world. Its waters are characterized by a high concentration of salt and therapeutic minerals, which make the body float effortlessly. There, visitors rest from the fatigue of the journey by covering their bodies with mud rich in minerals that have well-known healing properties. Swimming and relaxing in the Dead Sea have become among the most important recreational and therapeutic activities in Jordan, attracting families and those seeking physical and psychological rejuvenation, confirming the richness of tourism in Jordan.
Unforgettable Tourist Activities from Petra to the Dead Sea
First: Tourist Activities in Petra
Petra is not just an archaeological site, but a complete experience of history, nature, and adventure.
Here are its most prominent activities:
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Walking through the Siq
- A narrow passage stretching about 1.2 km between towering pink rocks leading to the famous façade of the Treasury.
- The experience is like entering a secret world where the colors of the rocks change with the light, and the echo of footsteps can be heard in the majestic silence of the place.
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Visiting the Treasury
- The most famous landmark in Petra, a massive structure carved into pink stone about 40 meters high.
- Visitors can take photos from the front square or from high platforms overlooking it from above.
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Climbing to the Monastery
- It requires climbing 800 stone steps through the mountains, but it offers one of the most beautiful views in Jordan.
- At the top, you will find the grand temple known as the Monastery, and a simple Bedouin café serving sage-flavored tea with a stunning view over the valleys, a favorite experience for enthusiasts of tourism in Jordan.
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Hiking the Mount Aaron Trail
- For adventure lovers, you can climb the mountains surrounding Petra to reach the Tomb of Prophet Aaron.
- The trail grants a panoramic view of the pink rooftops of the ancient city, and you are often accompanied by a Bedouin guide who narrates stories and legends.
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Petra by Night Tour
- A magical experience held three times a week, where the Siq and the Treasury are illuminated by hundreds of candles.
- The event is accompanied by Bedouin music and traditional chanting that takes you back to the era of ancient caravans.
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Visiting the Petra Archaeological Museum
- It displays tools and models from the Nabataean civilization that built the city more than two thousand years ago.
- The place is ideal for understanding how the complex water system was built that made the city thrive in the heart of the desert.
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Shopping from Local Artisans
- At the exit and inside the courtyards, you will find Bedouin women selling handmade products of silver, beads, and pink ceramics inspired by the colors of the rocks.
- Buying a small piece from them is a direct support to the local community.
Second: Tourist Activities in the Dead Sea
Traveling from Petra to the Dead Sea means moving from the fragrance of history to a unique relaxation experience at the lowest point on earth.
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Relaxing in the Waters of the Dead Sea
- A one-of-a-kind experience, as you can float effortlessly because of the high salinity of the water.
- The sensation of weightlessness is fascinating, and it is often recommended to lie calmly without diving into the water to protect your eyes from the strong salt.
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Covering the Body with Healing Dead Sea Mud
- A favorite activity among visitors is covering the body with black mud rich in minerals and waiting for it to dry under the sun.
- It helps purify the skin and improve blood circulation, and this experience is available at both public beaches and luxury hotels.
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Visiting the Spa Resorts
- The most famous are Kempinski, Mövenpick, and Hilton Dead Sea resorts.
- They offer therapeutic sessions based on Dead Sea salts and natural oils, with a mesmerizing view of the mountains across the water.
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Watching the Sunset from the Beach
- The sunset here is among the most beautiful in the Middle East; the sky turns into a blend of orange and gold.
- You can take wonderful photos or enjoy dinner at one of the cafés overlooking the sea, making it a highlight of tourism in Jordan.
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Visiting Mount Nebo
- Located on the road leading to the Dead Sea, it is one of the most important religious sites in Jordan.
- From its summit, you can see the Holy Land and the Jordan Valley, and it is said that Prophet Moses stood there and saw the Promised Land.
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Visiting Wadi Mujib
- Half an hour away from the Dead Sea, it is one of the best adventure sites in Jordan. You can take a hike in the water between giant rocks and slide through the canyon until you reach a stunning waterfall.
- The activity suits nature and adventure lovers, and it is recommended during mild weather seasons.
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Shopping in Local Gift Centers
- You will find products made from Dead Sea salts and mud such as creams, soaps, and skincare items.
- These are perfect gifts, often organic and locally produced.
Additional Baggage Service with almatar
almatar provides an additional baggage feature for all flight passengers or for one traveler as needed. This additional service allows the purchase of extra baggage when booking flight tickets, ensuring the traveler full peace of mind without worrying about luggage weight limits.
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Petra and the Dead Sea
How can I travel between Petra and the Dead Sea?
You can rent a car or join an organized tour; the road between them passes through magnificent desert landscapes and stops at historical sites like Mount Nebo.
What is the best time to visit Petra and the Dead Sea?
Spring and autumn (March – May and September – November) are the best seasons for tourism in Jordan, as the weather is mild and the sky is clear for taking photos.
How can I benefit from the Dead Sea mud?
Visitors cover their bodies with mineral-rich mud, let it dry, then rinse in the salty waters; this traditional Jordanian remedy refreshes the skin and relieves muscle pain.
Is this trip suitable for all family members?
Absolutely, because the trip combines culture and entertainment; children will love exploring castles and caves, while adults will enjoy therapeutic waters and desert nature.
How many days do I need to explore Petra and the Dead Sea?
We recommend three days for Petra and its area, and two days for the Dead Sea to fully enjoy the experiences of tourism in Jordan.