A Thorough Look at the Top 5 Amman Adventure Tours
So, you find yourself in Amman, and honestly, the city’s ancient Citadel and Roman Theater are genuinely amazing. Yet, a part of you is likely looking for something more, a kind of activity that gets your heart pumping. As a matter of fact, Jordan has a wild side that calls to the thrill-seeker in all of us. Basically, beyond the city’s charming cafes and markets, there’s a whole world of outdoor fun waiting. You know, it’s about finding that perfect trip that speaks to your adventurous spirit. In that case, let’s explore some of the absolute best adventure tours that you can take, starting right from the capital city.
1. Canyoning and Splashing Through Wadi Mujib
What the Day Is Like
Okay, first up is the famous Wadi Mujib Siq Trail, which is literally a water-filled canyon experience. Seriously, you spend the day climbing, swimming, and sliding through a really stunning river gorge. This place, as a matter of fact, is run by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, so it’s very well-managed. Anyway, you’ll start by walking into the canyon, and pretty soon the water is up to your waist. In some respects, it feels like a natural water park created by mother nature herself. You’ll actually pull yourself up small waterfalls using ropes and slide down smooth, water-carved rocks. To be honest, the cool water is just incredibly refreshing, particularly on a hot Jordanian day. The guides are there, of course, to show you the way and help with the tricky parts, you know.
Who Should Go?
Frankly, this trip is pretty much for anyone with a decent fitness level and a love for water. You don’t, in fact, need any technical climbing skills, just a good sense of balance and a willingness to get completely soaked. I mean, if the idea of jumping into pools of fresh water and scrambling over rocks sounds like fun, then this is definitely for you. Obviously, it’s not for someone who dislikes water or has a fear of enclosed spaces, as some parts of the canyon are quite narrow. More or less, it’s a perfect group activity too, and you will share a lot of laughs along the way.
2. A 4×4 Desert Safari in Majestic Wadi Rum
The Experience Out in the Sand
Alright, so next is an experience that is honestly a must-do in Jordan: a desert expedition in Wadi Rum. Apparently, a lot of tours start from Amman, making it a very accessible escape from the city. So, you’ll ride in the back of a beat-up 4×4 truck, driven by a local Bedouin guide who just knows the desert like his own home. It’s almost like stepping onto another planet; the sand is a deep red color, and these massive rock formations shoot up towards the sky. You’ll stop, for instance, at spots made famous by films like ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ and ‘The Martian’. By the way, the guides often share old stories and point out ancient rock carvings, and stuff. You will kind of feel a very real connection to the history and the land here.
Is This Your Kind of Trip?
Well, a Wadi Rum safari is for pretty much everyone, to be honest. It can be a very relaxed sightseeing trip or, in a way, a bit more adventurous if you choose to climb some of the rock bridges or sand dunes. I mean, it is perfect for photographers, history buffs, and anyone who just wants to see one of the world’s most beautiful desert settings. Basically, if you choose to stay overnight in a Bedouin camp, the experience gets even better. At the end of the day, sleeping under a sky filled with countless stars after a traditional Zarb dinner is just an absolutely unforgettable moment.
3. Rock Climbing and Abseiling Adventures
Getting Vertical on Jordan’s Cliffs
You know, for those who really want to challenge themselves physically, there are some great rock climbing opportunities just a short drive from Amman. In fact, local adventure companies have set up routes for all skill levels, from total beginners to experienced climbers. Typically, a guide will meet you, provide all the gear, and give you a safety briefing that is actually very thorough. It’s a bit of a workout, for sure, as you figure out the handholds and footholds to make your way up the cliff face. Abseiling, or rappelling, is often part of the day too, which is just an incredible feeling as you lean back and walk down the rock wall. Still, the view from the top is always worth the effort.
Who Is It For?
Actually, you don’t need to be an athlete to try this, but some upper body strength is definitely helpful. It’s really for the person who likes to push their personal limits a little. So, if you enjoy problem-solving and physical activity, you will probably love rock climbing. Obviously, it’s an activity that requires a lot of trust in your guide and your gear, so it’s also a good way to build confidence. Likewise, it’s a very focused activity, so for a few hours, all your daily worries just sort of melt away, which is pretty great.
4. Soaring in a Hot Air Balloon Over the Desert
A Quiet Ride Above It All
Now, on the other hand, if you want adventure of a quieter kind, then a hot air balloon ride is almost perfect. I mean, these tours usually happen over Wadi Rum and are part of packages that include transport from Amman. You have to wake up very, very early for this, basically before sunrise. But, as you gently lift off the ground, all sleepiness disappears. The silence up there is really something else, only broken by the occasional blast from the burner. Watching the sun come up and cast long shadows across the red desert is just one of those really special, almost spiritual moments. You just float along, taking in the huge, quiet landscape below.
Who Will Love This?
Honestly, a hot air balloon trip is ideal for couples, families, or anyone looking for a completely peaceful yet exciting experience. It isn’t physically demanding at all; you just stand in a basket, you know. It’s arguably one of the best ways to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of Wadi Rum. For photographers, the opportunity is absolutely golden. In some respects, it feels a little bit like a dream. If your idea of adventure is more about stunning views and quiet wonder than physical exertion, then this is sort of the perfect choice for you.
5. Exploring the Red Sea: Scuba Diving in Aqaba
Discovering a World Underwater
Finally, let’s talk about heading south to Aqaba for some scuba diving. Of course, this requires a full day or an overnight trip from Amman, but it’s so worth it. The Red Sea is world-renowned for its incredibly clear water and rich marine life. Local dive centers in Aqaba cater to everyone, from those doing an introductory dive to certified divers wanting to explore deeper sites. One of the most famous dive sites is literally a sunken C-130 Hercules plane, which is an artificial reef that is just so cool to explore. There’s also a tank and an anti-aircraft vehicle underwater, creating a kind of military museum beneath the waves.
Is Diving for You?
Well, diving is for anyone who is comfortable in the water and curious about the world below the surface. You don’t need to be a super strong swimmer, just able to handle yourself in water, right? The feeling of weightlessness and breathing underwater is completely unique, and you get to see all sorts of colorful fish and coral. It’s a very different kind of Jordanian adventure, showing you that the country’s wonders are not just in its deserts and ancient cities, but also in its sea. At the end of the day, it is a fantastic way to cap off a trip to Jordan.
Read our full review: Amman adventure tours Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Book Your Amman Adventure Tour)