The Golden Triangle Tour in Jordan offers an unforgettable journey through three of the country’s most iconic destinations: Aqaba, Petra, and Wadi Rum. This tour seamlessly blends history, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a must-do for travelers. Aqaba, Jordan’s only coastal city, provides a relaxing start with its stunning Red Sea beaches, vibrant marine life, and exciting water activities. Moving inland, Petra, the world-famous “Rose City,” captivates visitors with its breathtaking rock-cut architecture, including the Treasury and Monastery. Finally, the tour reaches the surreal desert landscape of Wadi Rum, known for its dramatic sandstone mountains, red sand dunes, and Bedouin hospitality. Whether exploring ancient wonders, diving into the sea, or experiencing a magical desert sunset, the Golden Triangle Tour delivers a rich and diverse travel experience.
Start with Red sea Aqaba
Beginning of the Golden Triangle Tour – Aqaba
The Golden Triangle Tour kicks off in Aqaba, Jordan’s vibrant coastal city, known for its stunning Red Sea views, rich history, and lively markets. As the country’s only seaport, Aqaba is a hub for both relaxation and adventure.
Red Sea Experience & Boat Tour
Your journey begins with a 1.5-hour boat tour on the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, where you can admire Aqaba’s coral reefs, colorful marine life, and even catch glimpses of historic shipwrecks beneath the surface. Many boat tours offer options for snorkeling or glass-bottom boats, allowing you to explore the underwater wonders without even getting wet. Some tours even include refreshments or traditional Jordanian tea on board, making for a relaxing and scenic experience.
Shopping in Aqaba
After the boat tour, enjoy some free time exploring Aqaba’s bustling markets and shopping districts. The city is a duty-free zone, meaning you can find great deals on perfumes, gold, electronics, and local handicrafts. Popular spots include:
- Aqaba Souk – A traditional market offering spices, souvenirs, and handmade Bedouin crafts.
- Ayla Oasis – A modern shopping and leisure complex with high-end boutiques and waterfront cafes.
- City Center Mall – Perfect for those looking for international brands and modern shopping experiences.
Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Aqaba
While in Aqaba, visitors can explore a mix of historical, cultural, and natural attractions, such as:
- Aqaba Castle (Mamluk Fort) – A historic fortress dating back to the 16th century, offering insight into Aqaba’s strategic past.
- Aqaba Archaeological Museum – A small but fascinating museum showcasing artifacts from the region’s ancient civilizations.
- Aqaba Marine Park – A paradise for divers and snorkelers, home to some of the best coral reefs in the Red Sea.
- South Beach & Berenice Beach Club – Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying beachfront dining.
- Sharif Hussein Bin Ali Mosque – A stunning white-domed mosque and a symbol of Islamic architecture in the city.
After an exciting start in Aqaba, the tour continues inland toward the breathtaking ancient city of Petra, where more adventures await!
Petra Time
Exploring Petra – The Rose City
After the vibrant coastal experience in Aqaba, the Golden Triangle Tour continues inland to Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Known as the “Rose City” due to its stunning red and pink sandstone cliffs, Petra is an ancient Nabatean city carved into the rock over 2,000 years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit destination for history lovers, adventurers, and photographers alike.
Entering Petra – The Siq
The journey into Petra begins with a walk through The Siq, a breathtaking 1.2-kilometer-long narrow gorge flanked by towering cliffs. As you make your way through this natural rock passage, you’ll see remnants of ancient carvings, water channels, and niches once used for worship. The anticipation builds as the path opens up to reveal Petra’s most famous monument—Al-Khazneh (The Treasury).
Top Attractions in Petra
- Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) – The most iconic structure in Petra, this elaborate rock-cut tomb is believed to have been the mausoleum of a Nabatean king. Its intricate facade, standing nearly 40 meters tall, is especially mesmerizing at sunrise or sunset.
- Street of Facades – A row of tombs and ancient houses carved into the rock, showcasing Petra’s unique architectural style.
- The Royal Tombs – A collection of grand Nabatean tombs, including the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, and Corinthian Tomb, each with distinctive designs.
- The Roman Theater – A fascinating amphitheater carved into the mountainside, capable of seating up to 8,500 spectators.
- The Monastery (Ad-Deir) – A larger and less crowded structure than the Treasury, The Monastery requires a challenging 800-step climb, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort.
- The Great Temple – A massive complex showcasing the grandeur of Nabatean civilization, believed to have served religious or governmental purposes.
Optional Experiences in Petra
- Petra by Night – A magical experience where thousands of candles illuminate the Siq and Treasury, accompanied by traditional Bedouin music.
- Camel or Donkey Rides – A fun way to explore Petra, with local Bedouins offering rides through different parts of the site.
- Local Cuisine – Enjoy traditional Jordanian dishes like Mansaf, Maqluba, or freshly baked bread in one of the local restaurants near the entrance.
After an unforgettable day in Petra, the tour continues deeper into the Jordanian desert to the mesmerizing landscapes of Wadi Rum, where an entirely new adventure awaits.
Go Wild in Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum – The Valley of the Moon
The final leg of the Golden Triangle Tour takes you to the breathtaking desert of Wadi Rum, known for its surreal landscapes, towering sandstone mountains, and deep red sand dunes. Often referred to as the “Valley of the Moon,” this UNESCO-listed site is a favorite among adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking an authentic Bedouin experience.
1.5-Hour Jeep Tour – Exploring Wadi Rum’s Wonders
Upon arrival, embark on an exhilarating 1.5-hour Jeep tour through the stunning desert terrain. Led by experienced Bedouin guides, this adventure takes you to some of Wadi Rum’s most iconic landmarks, including:
- Lawrence’s Spring – A historic site linked to T.E. Lawrence (“Lawrence of Arabia”), offering stunning desert views.
- Khazali Canyon – A narrow gorge featuring ancient Nabatean and Thamudic inscriptions.
- The Sand Dunes – Giant red dunes perfect for climbing, running, or simply admiring the vast desert landscape.
- The Mushroom Rock – A unique natural rock formation shaped by wind and erosion over thousands of years.
- The Burdah Rock Bridge & Um Fruth Arch – Stunning natural rock arches that make for incredible photo opportunities.
As the sun begins to set, watch the desert transform into a breathtaking palette of orange, pink, and purple hues—a sight you won’t forget.
Luxury Bubble Camping Experience
After the Jeep tour, settle into your accommodation for the night: a luxury bubble tent in the heart of Wadi Rum. These transparent, dome-shaped tents offer panoramic views of the desert and starry night sky, giving you a unique and immersive camping experience while still enjoying modern comforts such as private bathrooms, air conditioning, and cozy beds.
Open Buffet Bedouin-Style Dinner
As night falls, enjoy a traditional Bedouin-style open buffet dinner, featuring delicious local dishes like:
- Zarb – A Bedouin barbecue cooked underground with lamb, chicken, and vegetables.
- Mansaf – Jordan’s national dish, made with lamb, rice, and fermented yogurt.
- Mezze Platters – A variety of appetizers like hummus, baba ghanoush, and fresh salads.
- Freshly Baked Bread & Sweets – Accompanied by traditional mint tea or Arabic coffee.
Evening Activities & Stargazing
After dinner, relax around the campfire with live Bedouin music and storytelling or join a stargazing session to witness the Milky Way and constellations in one of the world’s best dark-sky locations.
End of the Tour
After a peaceful night in the desert, wake up to a beautiful sunrise over the sand dunes and enjoy a traditional Bedouin breakfast before heading back to civilization. This unforgettable journey through Aqaba, Petra, and Wadi Rum provides a perfect mix of adventure, history, and relaxation, making it one of Jordan’s most iconic travel experiences.