Things to do in Jordan Rift Valley
Discover the best attractions and experiences Jordan Rift Valley has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient sites and mosaics that trace the deep history along the Jordan Rift Valley.
Mount Nebo
An ancient hilltop with sweeping views over the Jordan Valley and the Holy Land, tied to biblical tradition.
Baptism Site (Bethany Beyond the Jordan)
A sacred Jordan River location marking John the Baptist's sightings and biblical events.
Church of Saint George (Madaba)
Home to the famous Madaba Map mosaic, a crucial artifact in early Christian cartography.
Museums
Delve into regional archaeology and mosaics at museums and heritage sites near the Rift.
Madaba Archaeological Museum
Shows mosaics and artifacts from Madaba and surrounding areas, offering context for the map mosaic.
Umm ar-Rasas Archaeological Site
UNESCO-listed site with well-preserved church mosaics and Roman-era remains that feel museum-like.
Baptism Site Visitor Center
Exhibits and interpretive displays about the Baptism site and the Jordan River region.
Religious Monuments
Sacred places steeped in biblical history along the Rift Valley’s edge.
Baptism Site (Bethany Beyond the Jordan)
A principal Christian pilgrimage site along the Jordan River with significant religious history.
Mount Nebo
A biblical landmark with sacred associations and panoramic views of the valley.
Church of Saint George (Madaba)
Religious site hosting the renowned Madaba Map mosaic, a key Christian-era artifact.
National & Theme Parks
Protective nature reserves and dramatic landscapes ideal for outdoor adventures.
Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve
Rugged canyon trails and river gorges offering adventurous hikes and natural beauty.
Dana Biosphere Reserve
Jordan’s largest nature reserve, with diverse habitats and multi-day trekking routes.
Dead Sea Nature Reserve
Coastal reserve preserving the Dead Sea environment and scenic shoreline views.
Neighborhoods
Historic towns and gateways along the Rift that showcase local life and heritage.
Madaba
A mosaic-filled town famous for its ancient map and friendly local vibe.
Salt
A historic hill town with traditional architecture and crafts.
Wadi Musa
Gateway town to Petra and a base for exploring the southern Rift.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to soak in the scenery and history without a heavy itinerary.
Mount Nebo viewpoints at sunset
Take in the panoramic valley views as the day fades over the Rift.
Stroll along the Dead Sea coast
Walk the shoreline and enjoy the unique desert-Salt scenery at no cost.
Explore Madaba Old Town
Meander the streets to admire mosaics, markets, and century-old architecture.
Gastronomy
Taste traditional Jordanian flavors that pair perfectly with Rift Valley scenery.
Mansaf
Jordan’s national dish of lamb and rice, richly flavored with yogurt sauce.
Zarb
Bedouin-style barbecue cooked underground for a distinctive, smoky flavor.
Maqluba
Layered rice and meat dish flipped upside-down for a dramatic presentation.
Nightlife
Evening atmospheres range from serene resorts to desert camps under starlit skies.
Petra by Night
A magical twilight stroll through lit, candle-adorned pathways of Petra.
Wadi Rum Bedouin Night
Star-filled desert evenings with traditional music and storytelling.
Dead Sea Resort Lounges
Relax at sunset with live music and cocktails from lakefront venues.
Entertainment
Cultural experiences and performances that bring the Rift Valley’s heritage to life.
Wadi Rum Desert Camp Experience
Evening performances, music, and storytelling at desert camps.
Dana Biosphere Reserve Stargazing Nights
Group or guided stargazing events under exceptionally clear Rift skies.
Petra Archaeological Site Exploration
Daytime exploration of ancient rock-cut monuments and temples.
Sports
Adventure-ready activities amid canyons, trails, and dramatic landscapes.
Wadi Mujib Canyoning
Rappel and hike through Mujib’s dramatic river canyons.
Dana Biosphere Reserve Hiking
Extensive network of trails across varied terrain and viewpoints.
Mount Nebo Trail
Gentle to moderate hikes offering striking valley scenery.
Off the Track
Less-touristy routes that reveal hidden corners of the Rift Valley.
Umm ar-Rasas UNESCO Site
Remote mosaics and ruins offering a quieter alternative to busier sites.
Shobak Castle Ruins
Crusader fortress ruins perched along scenic southern routes.
King's Highway Scenic Drive
Historic road trip between Amman and Petra with multiple stops.