This is a featured article by world traveller Teresa who loves to experience outdoor travel adventures around the world.
Aqaba, on the south coast of Jordan, is a fantastic destination for adventurers. It is situated in the heart of the Middle East and offers plenty of attractions for those looking to explore the Aqaba region.
While the port city itself is primarily known for its excellent beaches and diving facilities – as well as the luxury hotels, such as the Kempinski Hotel Aqaba on the shore of the Gulf of Aqaba – its proximity to a number of historical attractions around the area makes it perfect for anyone seeking an activity-filled trip around the Red Sea.
Top five activities from Aqaba
These are my top five activities from Aqaba in Jordan.
Top five activities from Aqaba
Kerak
Kerak was once the location of a huge Crusader fortification, and is now a small Arab city with a significant Christian presence. The ruins of the castle remain on the skyline, and are well worth seeing, despite a few confusing elements; restoration is underway, but there is no information, so you’ll have to rely on instinct and maybe a local for a good idea of what you’re looking at! The museum is a good place to start, for a basic run-down of the city’s history.
Madaba
Madaba is a small town with a rich past, best known for the famous “Jerusalem Map” created entirely from mosaic tiles in the 6th century. This is a beautiful piece of history, and a must-see for all history-lovers. Walkers will find themselves with their own challenge – climb to the top of Mount Nebo, ten minutes from the city centre, for a truly breathtaking view over the Dead Sea and the neighbouring city of Jericho.
Petra
Petra is easily the gem in Jordan’s crown; an ancient city built from sandstone, these impeccable ruins date back to sometime before the 6th century. It’s an archaeological wonder, and well worth booking a hotel to get a two-day tour of the whole city. Highlights include the spectacular Treasury, the façade of which is carved into rock, and the ad-Deir Monastery, the largest carving in Petra.
Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is at the lowest point on Earth, sitting 394.6m below sea level. It’s also the one of the most saline bodies of water in the world, so much so that no marine life can inhabit it. However, there are also many benefits – the mud along the shore is extremely rich in minerals, so don’t be surprised to see people laying it on like a face mask! You can swim in the Dead Sea, but you should always adhere to safety precautions.
Dana Biosphere Reserve
If the bustle of the cities is getting to you, head to the Dana Biosphere Reserve, the largest nature reserve in Jordan. It’s also the most biologically diverse, with rare plants as well as endangered animals taking shelter thanks to conservation efforts. Look out for the Nubian Ibex desert goats and the Caracal, a type of lynx. Explore enough and you’ll pass over four bio-geographical zones, each with itso own distinct biological traits. Ideal for nature-lovers!