Over the years, Jordan has been a favorite destination for many Black travelers: from boat riding in the Red Sea to hot air ballooning over the Wadi Rum desert, travelers have experienced an array of unique adventures in the kingdom.
In celebration of Black History Month, we have rounded up some of the most memorable experiences in Jordan.
Boating in the Red Sea
(Photo credit: Ohemaa's Instagram Account)
Travel creator and filmmaker Ohemaa Akosua had an unforgettable boat day experience in Jordan’s port city of Aqaba, which is home to the beautiful Red Sea. The Red Sea, located in southern Jordan and a four-hour drive from the capital city of Amman, is especially known for its unique scuba diving sites and rich marine life. “Aqaba completely shifted my perspective of Jordan, it’s so much more than I imagined! From breathtaking views to relaxing vibes, this city is the perfect blend of fun and tranquility. Whether you’re here to party or simply unwind, Aqaba has it all,” Ohemaa shared.
Hot Air Balloon Rides in the Desert
(Photo credit: Myna's Instagram Account)
Visiting Wadi Rum was one of the most “iconic stops” in Jordan for travel content creator Myna. “Wadi Rum is a desert valley in southern Jordan that looks like something straight out of Mars. Aside from looking otherworldly, Wadi Rum was actually once part of ancient trade routes connecting Africa to the Arabian Peninsula. Watching the sun rise over 'Mars on Earth' is something I’ll never forget, it was pure magic,” Myna said.
Floating in the Dead Sea
(Photo credit: Kaitlyn's Instagram Account)
In October, New Orleans-based photojournalist Kaitlyn Amor visited Jordan, one of her bucket list destinations. During her trip, she visited the Amman Citadel, Petra, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Wadi Rum desert, the Dead Sea, which is the lowest point on earth, and the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ. Here is a shot of her standing on the Dead Sea's beautiful salt crystal beach; she explains that "due to the high salt content, you become buoyant and just naturally float."
Explore Petra at Night
(Photo credit: Sam's Instagram Account)
A second-time visitor to Jordan, New York native Sam loves Jordanian food, specifically dishes at Amman’s renowned Fakhreldin restaurant as well as Jordan's ancient ruins, especially the stone-carved Nabatean city of Petra. Sam chose to experience Petra at night: a magical candlelit stroll with a licensed guide through the ancient city. “Traveling through Jordan with a group of Black folk from the Black Travel Alliance organization was amazing and we were all living our best lives. Jordan is incredibly welcoming to Black travelers and the perfect place for our melanin to shine while we wander around in the desert sun. If you need a new spot to add to your bucket list, make it Jordan,” Sam shared.
Roam Through Roman Ruins
(Photo credit: Kris's Instagram Account)
Solo traveler and writer Kris spent two weeks in Jordan, revealing that she was blown away by the rich Jordanian culture and its people. She made her way to the ancient Greco-Roman city of Jerash and shared some of the top things to do at the site, including visiting the Jerash Archaeological Museum, watching reenactments of Roman battles, and shopping at local markets for souvenirs.
Discover Amman’s Gems
(Photo credit: Ciar's Instagram Account)
Bursting with culture, history, and vibrancy, Amman offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveler. Adventure traveler and storyteller Ciara visited Amman and enjoyed an array of activities during her trip, such as making art at Dar Ne’meh restaurant, tasting Jordanian-grown olive oil, and eating delicious falafel downtown. “It is a city brimming with archaeological wonders, culture, and yummy food!” she expressed.