Roman ruins of Jerash Jordan

Beyond Petra: 10 Hidden Gems in Jordan You Need to See 12/08/2025


The rose-red city of Petra often springs to mind when travelers think of Jordan. Who can blame them really? With its breathtaking rock-cut architecture and rich history, Petra Tours are a must on almost every travel bucket list.
But the big secret that no one told me is that Jordanian beauty doesn´t end at Petra´s Treasury. In this old land there are so many hidden places to discover and all of them with a different story, new scenery and other unforgettable moments! Whether that is on a Jordan Petra tour or discovering the more far-flung parts of the country, each of these 10 destinations will make your adventure in Jordan something unique.
 

1. Wadi Rum - the Valley of the Moon

Just 1.5 hours away from Petra, Wadi Rum feels like another planet. From the towering sandstone cliffs to the seemingly endless red dunes and sky so clear you can see The Milky Way, this desert region is truly one of those landscapes that has starred in Hollywood movies and captured the imagination of every intrepid dreamer.
You will get to discover all kinds of fascinating places, from Jeep Safaris to Camel rides and star watching under the Bedouin tent. Since most tours to Petra also come with a Wadi Rum add-on, it is an ideal concatenation to your Petra Jordan tour.
Pro-tip: Spend the night here for an enchanting desert sunset followed by a star-studded night sky.

2. Dana Biosphere Reserve

Dana is paradise for anyone who adores nature. The reserve is a mix of rugged mountains, deep valleys and enigmatic wildlife. Trails lead through quaint old villages and rugged landscapes, to rival any national park anywhere in the world.
If you like slow travel, then adding Dana to your Jordan tours is a good choice - it is quiet, beautiful and perfect for photography enthusiasts.

3. The Dead Sea

Dead Sea - the lowest place on Earth, with rich natural salt giving you almost no density of swimming. And it's a natural spa - apparently the mineral-rich mud is medicinal. The Dead Sea is a visit that many travelers will add on after their trip to Petra before taking an international flight out of Jordan. Saltier than ever after a day of hiking Petra and Wadi Rum!

4. Ajloun Castle

Ajloun Castle is located atop one of the hills in northern Jordan, it was built in the 12th century by the armies of Saladin. Its panoramic views over the Jordan Valley are not to be missed from the top. This is a great side road for any of the historically inclined departing tours to Petra and the like, if you have an extra day.

5. Pompeii of the East: Jerash

Jerash: This Roman city is one of the best-preserved in the world, and actually breathtaking. Stroll along its colonnaded streets, stand in the huge oval forum and envisage chariots careering round the ancient hippodrome.
In other words, coming to Jerash on Jordan tours allows you a sliver of insight into the broad mix of ancient influences in this part of the world.

6. Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)

For those who love Petra, you will fall head over heels for this baby brother. Whilst it might not have the same Instagram-worthiness as Petra proper, Little Petra is just a short drive away and provides those well-known Nabataean vibes. The place is intimate, carved in the rock; its narrow canyon and surrounding villages are still a shroud of mystery, but I will do my best to introduce you to all.
As a warm up to the grand finale, I'll reveal one little secret - for some PETRA tours Little Petra is included which is any step worth it.

7. Ma’in Hot Springs

Picture sitting in hot mineral waterfalls amidst mountains. That is exactly what Ma'in Hot Springs gives you. Said to relieve muscle aches and improve circulation, these natural baths are popular with residents and tourists alike. Great for a Jordan Petra tour after days of hiking.

8. Umm Qais

Set on the actual location where Tiberius dissolved his empire, Umm Qais is an enchanting juxtaposition of Roman ruins and scenic beauty looking out onto the Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights. JAJ - A hidden cultural gem abound Jordan, this Greco-Roman city was once called Gadara.
It’s a quieter alternative to Jerash and a great place for travelers who like to avoid crowds.

9. Shobak Castle

Shobak is another Crusader fortress that usually lives in the shadow of its more famous neighbour, Karak Castle. Winding tunnels and ancient chambers make you really feel like you are walking around during medieval times in Jordan.
Most tours to Petra visit here - just have your guide make a brief stop on the way.

10. Aqaba - Jordan’s Coastal Gem

Beaches may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Jordan. Although Aqaba also has clean waters for snorkeling and scuba diving but it is the Red Sea. It is a cool way to wrap up an action-packed Petra Jordan tour or desert extravaganza.
Aqaba, with its coral fringed shores and luxury resorts shows a different side to Jordan: the vibrant beaches of the Red Sea.

Why Explore Beyond Petra?

Many people plan their whole trip around a Petra tour, but the essence of Jordan is its variety. In the morning you will be able to walk through ancient Roman streets - in the afternoon, float on the Dead Sea - and by evening watch the sun set from over a heart-break desert.
Getting out of Petra enables you to look beyond simply Jordan the ancient country, helping you feel a part of its land, people and history spanning thousands of years.

Planning Your Own Journey

Ready to book a trip that rivals the best of these expertly connected destinations? With one of the Jordan Petra tours, you could also spend time at these other less-visited spots and maybe savor both mythological highlights and the hidden gems.
With Petra Nights Tours, we will take you on a Jordan tour to provide more than just run-of-the-mill tours. The service we provide ranges from tours through Petra to tailor-made trips around the country, our ideal is that your trip is comfortable, genuine and unrepeatable.

Your Jordan Adventure Awaits

Experience Jordan - don't just dream of it. From a classic Petra tour to completely personalized itineraries that go beyond the norm, if you can dream it up then Petra Nights Tours can make it happen.
Call us now +962 6 5543600 or write to info@petranightstours.com.
Your next adventure in Jordan starts here - and it’s going to be unforgettable.