Ajloun – Forest Reserve and Loop Trail

A short loop trail with views across the reserve starts at the Ajloun Forest Reserve campsite. Check the latest information on trail availability before setting out. If you are looking for a short nature trail as a specific focus when choosing your destination, Ajloun offers a clear option.

Nature Trails and Landscapes in Jordan

The Nawatef Trail offers a different kind of route: the loop runs from the Al-Barrah area to the Nawatef area and the lodge, and leads to mountains, springs, and ancient ruins. It operates year-round, but access is only permitted with a licensed guide. Check the latest information on this access rule before your tour. Comparing these nature experiences, the short loop trail in Ajloun focuses on views across the reserve, while the Nawatef Trail highlights mountains, springs, and ruins.

The Jordan Trail offers an even broader view of Jordan’s landscapes: it passes through wooded hills in the north, rugged wadis and cliffs above the Jordan Rift Valley, through Petra, and on to the Red Sea. At the Dead Sea, visitors use the rich, black mud. Jordan thus offers both changing landscapes along a route and a specific activity by the water.

Culture and History in Jordan

The baptism site of “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” (Al-Maghtas), Bethany beyond the Jordan, is considered by the majority of Christian denominations to be the place where Jesus of Nazareth was baptized by John the Baptist. It comprises two archaeological areas: Tell el-Kharrar, also known as Jabal Mar Elias, and the area of the Churches of St. John the Baptist. Generations of monks, hermits, pilgrims, and priests stayed there and visited the site; evidence of their religious activities dates from the 4th to the 15th century AD. Access is controlled through a single entrance. Designated paths are used for visitor tours and pilgrim processions; check the latest official information before traveling.

At Umm Al-Jimāl, the settlement developed from around the 5th century AD on the site of an older Roman settlement and remained in use until the end of the 8th century. Its basalt architecture reflects local Haurani styles of residential and religious buildings. In As-Salt, a narrow, pedestrian-only street runs along the slopes between traditional Ottoman stone buildings considered to be 150 years old. These offer different ways to explore Jordan’s history: the development of a settlement and a streetscape shaped by the slopes and its buildings.

Crafts and Cultural Experiences

Crafts also offer a distinct way to experience Jordanian culture. At The Biscuit House, visitors can tour the workshop where Tasali Jordanian delights are made. Check the latest information on public access before visiting. The Shaqilah Centre offers workshops and interactive lessons on Nabataean history and the cultural significance of traditional crafts. For this experience too, it is advisable to check the latest information before planning your visit.

Discover more destinations: Burma, Kerak, Balqa Governorate, Zarqa, Madaba Governorate, Mafraq Governorate, Aqaba, Irbid Governorate.

For the broader travel overview: Jordan.