Five unique Jordanian travel destinations

AMMAN — The ongoing pandemic makes it challenging to travel like we used to. But not to worry: There are plenty of unique and historical sites you can visit in Jordan without leaving the country. We put together this list of unique and lesser-known Jordanian travel spots that you can visit without hopping on an international flight.اضافة اعلان

Don’t worry, you won’t find Aqaba or Wadi Rum on this list. Instead, we chose to focus on locations that don’t get as much attention. No matter where you go, make sure to stay safe and enjoy your holiday.



Blessed Tree


(Photos: Kimi Bississo/Jordan News)

It takes a long journey to get to the Blessed Tree from Amman — but the voyage is worth it. In the remote desert near the Jordan-Iraqi border, dedicated travelers can find the tree. Stories say that the Prophet Mohammad visited the tree on his way to Syria. The tree has been estimated to be over 1,500 years old, a living testament to history, religion, and culture.

The site, in what is now Safawi, is overseen by the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs as well as a royal committee that administers and restores Islamic shrines. Check out our previous coverage for tips on how to access the site.

Tahounet Odeh


(Photo: Ahmed Bani Mustafa/Jordan News)

You can add a historical touch to your visit to Irbid by visiting Tahounet Odeh, or the mill of Odeh. This ancient watermill has been restored into a fully operational tourist site, offering a glimpse into how early Ottomans ground grain using just the natural flow of water.

The mill is surrounded by Roman olive trees and thousands of pomegranate trees. The mill lies within Wadi Al-Yabiss, an incredibly fertile valley considered one of the largest producers of Jordanian pomegranates. Visitors to the mill can purchase locally made pomegranate products, like jam, juice, and soap.

Cave of the Seven Sleepers


(Photos: By Kimi Bississo/Jordan News)

The ‘Cave of the Seven Sleepers’ is located just a brisk 20-minute drive from Amman. The story of the cave is told in both the Christian and Muslim faiths: seven men living in a time of idol worship were brought together by their secret belief in one God. Fearing persecution for their beliefs, the men fled and took refuge in a cave — only for God to preserve them for 300 years so they could wake in an age of tolerance.

A groundskeeper offers tours of the cave and narrates its story to visitors. Read our previous coverage for an idea of what to expect at this incredible religious and historical site.

Al-Birketein


(Photos: Ahmad Bani Mustafa/Jordan News)

Almost anyone who’s ever stepped foot in Jordan knows about the Roman theater downtown. But there are many more Roman ruins scattered throughout the country, including the Al-Birketein (two pools) in modern-day Jerash. The two large pools measure 88 meters long by 43 meters wide. The site, which also includes a festival theater, bath, and paved collonade, was originally designed to host the festivals of Maiuma, according to an inscription.

Although Al-Birketein is under the administration and protection of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the site is underdeveloped and rarely seen by tourists. You can be one of the lucky few to visit the pools, which date back to the third century AD.

Wadi Bin Hammad


(Photo: Duha Fayad/Jordan News)

Lovers of the outdoor should add Wadi Bin Hammad to their eid itinerary. The canyon, though not the most famous wadi in Jordan, makes for a gorgeous and unique hike in Karak. The wadi features both natural hot springs and a waterfall.

Professional guides can help you make your way through the hike. Make sure to stay safe and bring lots of water during the intense heat in Jordan.

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