Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Resorts
If you have only one night's luxury during your visit to Jordan, plan to stay in one of the
Dead Sea resorts. Not only are these state-of-the-art hotels worth a visit in their own right,
but they also offer the best access to the Dead Sea - an area where there is next to no al-
ternative accommodation. Residents of one resort can also use the facilities of the neigh-
bouring hotels, which can take care of several nights' worth of entertainment in an area
with no local nightlife.
Apart from the Dead Sea, there are also resorts in and around Aqaba - including the
flagship resorts of the Mövenpick and Intercontinental chains. With access to the calm
waters of the Red Sea, multiple pools, gyms and a selection of top-notch restaurants, they
are bringing a touch of class to Jordan's second city.
HIKING
Hiking is an exhilarating activity in Jordan, not least because of the pristine and varied quality of the landscape and
the historical allusions that underlie almost every path.
Bear in mind that Global Positioning System (GPS) units and mobile phones may not function between steep
canyon walls. Always check local conditions before setting out as flash floods can occur throughout spring and may
make wadis impassable.
When to Go
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Best
Mid-March to late April when it's not too hot, the rains have finished, flowers are blooming and wells are
full.
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Good
Late September to mid-October when it's dry but not excessively hot.
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Avoid
November to March when rains make it dangerous to hike or camp in narrow wadis and flash floods can
sweep unheralded out of the hills. Paths are often washed away and so routes change frequently. It's also very cold
for camping.
Where to Go
The best places for hiking in Jordan are Ajloun Nature Reserve, Dana Nature Reserve and Wadi Mujib Nature
Reserve where most trails require a guide. For more DIY options, there are some exciting hikes in Petra and in Wadi
Rum. Bedouin guides also offer accompanied hikes along the old caravan routes that link these two spectacular
places.
Several longer routes are possible with a tent. In particular, Dana to Petra is an excellent four-day trek that takes
you through Wadi Feinan, Wadi Ghuweir and Little Petra.
What to Bring
Lightweight trousers and long-sleeved shirts are culturally sensitive and best for the terrain. Other essentials include
a hat, sunscreen, water bottle, torch (flashlight) and insect repellent. Lightweight walking boots are ideal, and a wa-
tertight bag for wet wadi walks.
