Rana Abu Alhala
17-Mar-2025
Five thrilling activities in Jordan that should be on your bucket list!
Jordan is a land of breath-taking contrasts, where ancient history meets heart-pounding adventure. From the mesmerising rose-red city of Petra to the dramatic dunes of Wadi Rum and the vibrant marine life of the Red Sea, this Middle Eastern gem offers a playground for thrill-seekers. Whether you're scaling towering cliffs, diving into crystal-clear waters, or soaring above the desert in a hot-air balloon, Jordan promises an unforgettable rush of adrenaline. As the country continues to establish itself as a premier adventure destination, 2025 is the perfect time to discover its exhilarating experiences.
With insights from Rana Abu Alhala, CEO of Plan B Travel & Tourism, we explore five of the most thrilling activities that make Jordan a must-visit for adventure lovers worldwide.
Kayaking in the Red Sea (Aqaba)
Kayaking in Aqaba is an unmissable adventure, offering a unique way to explore Jordan’s only coastal city. Glide through the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, where vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life thrive beneath the surface. Framed by rugged sandstone mountains and golden beaches, Aqaba provides the perfect setting for both thrill and tranquillity. A sunset kayaking excursion is a truly magical experience, as the sky transforms into shades of gold and crimson, reflecting on the calm sea. Whether you're an adventure seeker or simply looking for a serene escape, paddling through the Gulf of Aqaba is a must, combining breath-taking scenery, warm waters, and Jordanian hospitality.
Abseiling Down Waterfalls in Wadi Al Mujib
For thrill-seekers visiting Jordan, the Trail in Wadi Mujib is an adventure like no other. This 6-kilometer round-trip takes you deep into a side canyon of the world’s lowest nature reserve, 410 meters below sea level. Prepare for an adrenaline-fuelled journey through rushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, and natural rock slides, all set against the breath-taking backdrop of towering sandstone cliffs. A mix of hiking, swimming, and climbing makes this canyoning experience both physically and mentally exhilarating. If you're visiting Jordan during the right season, don’t miss the chance to conquer Wadi Mujib—it's the ultimate outdoor adventure.
Explore an Ancient Roman Tunnel in Umm Qais
Deep beneath the historic village of Umm Qais, an engineering marvel stretches 420 meters through bedrock, offering a remarkable window into one of humanity's most impressive early water engineering achievements. Visitors can explore the tunnel's sophisticated engineering features, including intersecting passages at different levels, original plasterwork preserved on the walls, Hellenistic-era wells for water collection, multiple emergency exits and staircases and strategic ventilation systems. The tunnel's strategic location offers views of Lake Tiberias, the Yarmouk River, and the Golan Heights, highlighting the ancient builders' strategic thinking. Beyond its primary purpose of water transportation, it is believed to have served as an emergency shelter for the city's residents.
Night Desert Safari in Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum, a mesmerising desert in southern Jordan, is a landscape straight out of a dream. Its fiery red sands, towering sandstone mountains, and surreal rock formations create an otherworldly beauty that captivates every traveller. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, Wadi Rum is rich in history, archaeology, and Bedouin culture. Whether you’re racing across the dunes in a Jeep, trekking through ancient canyons, or riding a camel under the endless sky, every moment in this desert wilderness is unforgettable. For the curious and adventurous, Wadi Rum offers more than just stunning views—it’s a journey through Middle Eastern history, geology, and art, all set against the backdrop of Jordan’s most iconic natural wonder.
Scuba Diving at the Cedar Pride Shipwreck
The Cedar Pride shipwreck, Aqaba’s first purposely sunk wreck, has spent nearly four decades beneath the waves, transforming into a thriving artificial reef. Resting 150 meters off the coast, this 74-meter vessel is now a haven for vibrant corals and marine life, making it one of Jordan’s most iconic dive sites. With its crystal-clear waters, colourful reefs, and diverse aquatic species, Aqaba has earned its reputation as a world-class scuba diving destination. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, the city’s underwater treasures promise an unforgettable adventure. Dive in and discover why Aqaba is truly a diver’s paradise.
Whether conquering canyons, diving into the Red Sea, or soaring over Wadi Rum, every moment here is an adventure waiting to happen!
Image Credits : Jordan Tourism Board