Jordan with Family: Must-See Attractions and Activities
Are you thinking of traveling to Jordan with your children but hesitant? Wondering if a circuit with young ones is feasible?
Are you thinking of traveling to Jordan with your children but hesitant? Wondering if a circuit with young ones is feasible? The answer is yes! Jordan's lands brim with historical treasures and natural sites, offering wonderful compromises between unique discoveries and outdoor activities. Discover Jordan with family: the must-see attractions and activities to experience!
Visiting Jordan with Children: 4 Cities to Explore the Country
1 – Amman
Named the "white city" because of its stone color, the capital Amman sprawls across nineteen hills. Known for its heritage and modernity, it blends the richness of the past with contemporary architecture:
The Ancient Theatre
Carved directly into the mountain, the Roman theatre dazzles with the beauty of its amphitheatre. Today a venue for performances, the site houses the Museums of Folklore and Popular Traditions within its historic setting.
The Citadel of Amman (or Jabal al-Qal'a)
Nestled in the heart of the city, this place bears witness to a rich era. Though few buildings remain today, taking time to discover them allows you to pause and appreciate the panoramic views overlooking the capital. Worried about your children's patience? Free access to the ruins allows you to explore at your family's pace.
The Abdali Mall
A major tourist hub in the city, the Al-Abdali district is known for its spectacular Abdali Mall shopping center. Spanning 227,000 m² across five floors, this ultramodern space promises a unique shopping experience.
2 – Karak
Located about a hundred kilometers south of the capital, the Al-Karak castle is an architectural treasure. A blend of Western, Byzantine, and Arab styles, its watchtower offers breathtaking views over the valleys. Housed in underground galleries, visiting the museum takes on the feel of adventure!
3 – Petra
A city built into the rock, Petra is one of the seven wonders of the world. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it boasts nearly 3,000 remains! Among them, 4 unmissable sites:
the "Treasure of the Pharaoh" Khazneh;
the monastery al-Deir;
the temple Qasr al-Bint;
the temple of the winged lions.
To discover all the richness of Petra, a stay of several days is advised. Midway through your visit, offer your children a donkey ride or opt for a carriage ride through the heart of the rock-cut city!
4 – Aqaba
A port city, Aqaba is a beach resort known for its famous fort, inherited from the Mamluks (the "slave-soldiers"). For your moments of relaxation, choose the comfort of private beaches. Prefer a stroll by the water? Public beaches, less suited for swimming, will delight you with their sandy stretches.
Traveling in Jordan: 4 Outdoor Activities to Experience as a Family!
1 – Swimming in the Dead Sea
Jordan abounds with remarkable natural sites. The most astounding? The legendary Dead Sea! Its salt content is so high that no plant or aquatic species can survive there. Famous for its beneficial salinity, this unique water promises wonderful family moments. While swimming is challenging, bathing in the Dead Sea guarantees an incomparable floating experience and unforgettable memories!
2 – Snorkeling in the Red Sea
Want to introduce Jordan to your children in an unusual way? Initiate them to snorkeling! This surface diving requires minimal equipment and is accessible to everyone. Renowned for its marine park, the city of Aqaba offers outings and necessary equipment. Too young for diving? The city's aquarium allows your youngest to observe sea turtles and other aquatic species that inhabit the Red Sea.
3 – Visit the Shaumari Nature Reserve
Located near Azraq, the Shaumari wildlife reserve is a must-see stop. Created in 1975, this park works to conserve nature and maintain Jordan's fauna... Ready to approach the rare and prestigious Arabian Oryx?
4 – Explore the Wadi Rum Desert on Camels
Wadi Rum (or Wadi Ramm in Arabic) is a desert rich in canyons, natural arches, caves, and rock engravings, much beloved by filmmakers. Did you know that The Martian and Aladdin were filmed on its exceptional lands? While it attracts many trekkers, what is called "The Valley of the Moon" can also be explored on camelback!
Family Circuit to Discover Jordan
Want to enjoy your vacation without worrying about logistics? Opt for a journey specially designed for you. The advantages? Organization tailored to satisfy both young and old, plus easy transport between different sites (avoiding car rentals). Ready to travel with peace of mind? Discover our custom-made circuit to explore "Jordan with Family"!
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Jordan is a very accessible destination for families. Sites like Petra offer alternatives to hiking (carriage, donkey rides), the Dead Sea is safe for children thanks to its natural buoyancy, and family accommodations are plentiful. It's recommended to avoid July and August (intense heat) and prefer spring or autumn for optimal comfort.
French, Belgian, and Swiss nationals need a visa to enter Jordan. It's possible to obtain it upon arrival at major airports. The Jordan Pass, recommended for families, includes entry visa and access to numerous tourist sites including Petra, which represents significant savings.
The best times to visit Jordan with family are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Temperatures are then pleasant for exploring Petra, Wadi Rum, and other sites. Summer (June to August) is not recommended with children due to intense heat that can exceed 40°C in the desert.
A family circuit in Jordan ideally requires between 8 and 12 days to visit the main stages: Amman, Karak, Petra (2 to 3 days minimum), Wadi Rum (1 night in camp), and Aqaba for swimming in the Red Sea. This pace allows you to not overwhelm children while discovering the country's highlights.
Yes, snorkeling in Aqaba is accessible to children from about 6 years old. The Red Sea is renowned for its clear waters and exceptional marine biodiversity. Local providers offer outings and equipment rentals adapted for families. For younger children, Aqaba's aquarium is an excellent alternative to discover the marine species of the region.
