Things To Do
in Al Juwayyidah
Al Juwayyidah is a remote desert village in eastern Jordan set against red dunes and rugged rock formations. It preserves Bedouin hospitality and traditional crafts, offering a quiet, authentic rural experience away from city crowds. The area serves as a base for desert exploration, stargazing, and learning about nomadic heritage.
Visitors can expect a simple, welcoming atmosphere with clear night skies and expansive horizons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient city of Jerash, known for its stunningly preserved Roman ruins. Wander through the impressive arches and colonnades, taking in the grandeur of the Temple of Artemis. As the sun rises higher, the ruins glow beautifully, making for perfect photographs.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling traditional Jordanian dishes like mansaf or falafel. Post-lunch, delve deeper into the site by visiting the theater and the oval plaza, where you can often catch local performers. Spend some time in the museum to learn about the artifacts discovered from this historical site.
As the day winds down, return to Al Juwayyidah and relax at a local café, sipping on Arabic coffee or mint tea. Engage with friendly locals and reflect on the day's adventures. If you're up for it, take a stroll through the town to experience the evening ambiance and perhaps buy some local handicrafts.
Embark on a morning adventure to the breathtaking Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon. After arriving, meet your Bedouin guide who will take you on a jeep tour through the stunning sandstone mountains and unique rock formations. Marvel at the expansive desert landscapes while learning about the Bedouin way of life.
Enjoy a traditional Bedouin lunch in a tent, featuring fresh bread, grilled meats, and local vegetables, all while surrounded by the serene beauty of the desert. After lunch, take a camel ride and experience the desert from a different perspective, allowing you to connect with the landscape. Capture the mesmerizing views and colors of the desert as the sun begins to dip.
As night falls, gather around a cozy campfire under the starry sky, enjoying traditional Bedouin music and stories. Savor a delicious dinner prepared by your hosts before retiring to your desert camp for a night of restful sleep. The sounds of the desert will lull you into a peaceful night, enveloped by the magic of Wadi Rum.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥙Falafel wrap or street food | $1-4 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 💧Water bottle (1.5L) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🚗Car rental per day | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Bedouin hospitality and rural life
- Stunning desert landscapes and clear night skies
- Low crowds and off-the-beaten-path experiences
- Cost-effective for a desert base
- Limited facilities and medical services nearby
- Very limited public transportation; requires a car or guide
- Seasonal accessibility (dust storms, heat in summer)
- Sparse nightlife and entertainment
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "أين هو ...؟" - Where is ...?
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "نعم" - Yes
- "لا" - No
Places to Visit in Al Juwayyidah
Visit one of these nice places.
A panoramic vantage point over red sands and sculpted rock formations, especially striking at sunrise or golden hour.
Ruins and abandoned wells along aging desert routes—great for atmospheric wide shots and texture close-ups.
A dark-sky site away from lights, ideal for long-exposure shots of the Milky Way on clear nights.
Food in Al Juwayyidah
Al Juwayyidah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lamb cooked in a thick yogurt sauce served over rice; a signature Jordanian feast often shared with family and guests.
Must-Try!
Lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions; a staple, economical vegetarian option.
Bedouin earth oven meal featuring meat and vegetables slow-cooked underground; available at guesthouses or during arranged experiences.
Creamy chickpea dip served with warm, fresh bread—perfect for a quick, satisfying bite.
Simple, flavorful desert grill often featured in home-cooked meals and guesthouse dinners.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, bread ovens, olives, cheese, and dairy from nearby farms; great for tasting fresh, everyday Jordanian fare.
Occasional market days offering regional staples, snacks, and ready-to-eat treats; ideal for sampling portable street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Salam' and a handshake. Use the right hand for handshakes and giving items.
Dress modestly in rural areas; shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women in village settings. Ask permission before taking photos of people.
Hospitality is central to Bedouin culture; accepting tea or coffee is considerate even if you decline food offerings.
Safety
Tipping in Al Juwayyidah
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service: about 5-10% in casual eateries and 10-15% in more formal settings or guided experiences.
Cash is commonly used in remote areas; credit cards may be accepted at guesthouses or larger establishments. Carry small denominations of Jordanian dinars (JOD) for markets and local services.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot daytime temperatures; plan early-morning activities and carry ample water. Seek shade during peak heat and be mindful of sun exposure.
Warm days with cooler evenings; a comfortable period for hikes and village strolls. Nights can get chilly; bring a light jacket.
Cool to cold days, with potential chilly nights. Rain is possible; pack layers, a windbreaker, and waterproof footwear.
Mild days with blooming desert flora and more wildlife activity. Occasional dust storms may occur; stay hydrated and plan indoor options if needed.
Al Juwayyidah at Night
Hiking in Al Juwayyidah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic walk along a ridgeline with panoramic desert views; moderate difficulty and suitable for a half-day hike.
A short canyon route with rock steps and shaded sections; ideal for a cool day hike near the village.
Airports
How to reach Al Juwayyidah by plane.
Main international gateway to Jordan, near Amman; car rentals and taxis available; travel to Al Juwayyidah typically 60–90 minutes by road, depending on traffic.
Aqaba-based international airport serving regional flights; long overland transfer to Al Juwayyidah but useful when combining a Red Sea visit.
Smaller airport near Amman with limited regional flights; not the primary gateway for most travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant local population with a heritage rooted in desert life, hospitality, and traditional crafts.
Residents from various regions contributing to the local economy and services.
People who visit for agriculture, tourism, or research projects in the desert region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in towns and schools; informal games can be organized with locals.
A traditional desert activity popular with visitors; often offered by guesthouses or Bedouin hosts.
Desert ridge and canyon trails are popular for day trips with guides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Al Juwayyidah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared vegetarian using legumes, dairy, and vegetables. Inform hosts ahead of time and rely on mujadara, hummus, and bread-based meals as dependable options.