Jordan’s top five travel destinations

Cox & Kings, the five-star adventure/luxury tour company has chosen five top "bucket list" destinations in Jordan for travelers who want to immerse themselves in history, archeology and culture of this land rich in Biblical connections.

As other destinations in the Middle East undergo political turmoil, Jordan has remained a relatively safe and tranquil destination for pilgrims and other travelers who are seeking immersion in a Biblical-era landscape and culture.  It is important to note that travelers to Israel need not worry that an Israeli Visa will prevent travel to Jordan as the two countries have long worked with each other to allow tourists to travel from one destination to the other in a single journey.

Cox & Kings Big Five in Jordan include:

1.     Dana Biosphere Reserve

The Dana Biosophere Reserve is a sanctuary for rare species of birds and plants, many of which were plentiful in Biblical times.  Travelers can experience four different biological zones within one area: Mediterranean, Irano-Turanian, Saharo-Arabian and Sudanian penetration. Featuring 833 species of plants and 215 species of birds across 300 square kms, the reserve contains one third of Jordan’s plant species, including three recently discovered varieties. Its interchanging landscape from granite to sandstone extends in altitude from 100 metres below sea level up to 1,500 metres above sea level.

2.     Dead Sea

Reportedly the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea is fed by a number of rivers, including the pilgrimage site of the River Jordan where Jesus was baptized by St. John. The landlocked saline waters evaporate in the Middle Eastern heat, leaving behind a high concentration of salts and minerals, reported to have healing properties. With scientists believing the Dead Sea may dry up by 2050, Cox and Kings says pilgrims should plan a trip now.

3.     Red Sea

Surrounded by desert coastline and named after the red algae (Trichodesmium Erytreum) found in the water, the Red Sea is often referred to as the ‘underwater garden of Eden’. Dating back 30 million years, species found in the water are an eclectic mix of Atlantic and Mediterranean origin. This is due in part to its history as the sea was once closed at the southern end and open to the north. A notable location in Biblical texts, it is also believed that Moses escaped Egypt by crossing this ancient sea.  Divers can also experience plentiful Biblical-era ruins in underwater dives.

4.     Wadi Rum

The desert of Wadi Rum gives way to canyons that cut deep into the landscape.  Cox & Kings says one of Wadi Rumm’s most popular spots is Lawrence’s Spring, the place where Lawrence of Arabia reportedly washed himself during the Arab revolt.  Also important for pilgrims interested in history and archeology are ancient rock carvings and inscriptions that may date back 12,000 years.

5.     Petra

Over 2,000 years old, the pink city of Petra has only been known to the western world for the last 200 years.  Rediscovered by chance in August 1812 by J L Burkhardt, 2012 celebrates its 200th anniversary. Carved into solid sandstone rock, this UNESCO world heritage site boasts some of the finest archaeological sites, including the mysterious Treasury and The Monastery and the stone alleyway passage to the Treasury made famous in the film, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Source: Cox & Kings