Things To Do
in Aţ Ţafīlah
At-Tafilah is a small, sun-kissed city in southern Jordan set among rolling hills and olive groves. It serves as a gateway to the Dana Biosphere Reserve and other natural wonders of the Jordan Rift Valley. The town blends ancient limestone architecture with a slow-paced, hospitable atmosphere that invites wandering and conversation with locals.
Visitors come for authentic rural Jordan, scenic drives, and markets where daily life unfolds away from busier tourist centers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the Aţ Ţafīlah Archaeological Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the region through its ancient artifacts. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the museum’s beautiful gardens, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere that sets the tone for your adventure. As the sun rises, capture the stunning views of the surrounding hills that will surely enchant every visitor.
After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, venture into the surrounding mountainous terrain for a hiking experience that offers both breathtaking landscapes and a taste of local flora and fauna. Engage with friendly locals and learn more about their culture while exploring traditional villages nestled within the mountains. As the day progresses, find a scenic vantage point to appreciate the stunning vistas.
As night falls, treat yourself to authentic Jordanian cuisine at a cozy restaurant, enjoying dishes like Mansaf and Zarb while listening to traditional music. Join a local storytelling circle to learn more about the legends and folklore of Aţ Ţafīlah, creating a profound connection to the place. End your evening with a leisurely stroll under the stars, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Begin your day by visiting the local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere filled with colorful spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Engage with market vendors and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs while learning about the art of traditional Jordanian craftsmanship. This authentic experience will provide insight into the daily life of the local people.
Attend a cooking class where a local chef teaches you how to prepare classic Jordanian dishes, deepening your culinary skills and understanding of the region's flavors. Enjoy your hand-made meal with the group, savoring the fruits of your labor while sharing stories and laughter. This afternoon’s experience will surely be a highlight, leaving lasting memories.
After dinner, explore the charming alleyways of Aţ Ţafīlah and discover its art scene, which may include visiting local galleries or attending an impromptu street performance. Don’t miss a chance to connect with local artists, understanding their inspirations and passions. End the night by sipping mint tea at a local café while enjoying the friendly ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (within town) | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, uncrowded Jordanian experience
- Easy access to Dana Biosphere Reserve and southern highlights
- Limited nightlife and services in remote areas
- Language barriers may arise outside main towns
- "Marḥaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-ḥammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Aţ Ţafīlah
Visit one of these nice places.
Winding lanes, whitewashed houses, and doorways with blue and ochre accents provide colorful, characterful compositions especially at dawn or dusk.
Long-range desert and valley panoramas with dramatic rock formations; ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.
Sunset vantage points that bathe the valley in warm light and create silhouettes of the surrounding hills.
Historic stone remnants offer atmospheric textures and a sense of place amid the surrounding countryside.
Food in Aţ Ţafīlah
Aţ Ţafīlah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Jordan’s national dish: tender lamb served over rice with a thick yogurt-based sauce (jameed). Best found in traditional restaurants and during family-style meals.
Must-Try!
A layered one-pot dish of rice, vegetables, and meat that’s flipped onto the plate to reveal a colorful, fragrant centerpiece.
Sumac-spiced chicken roasted on flatbread with onions and pine nuts; a staple in many southern Jordanian homes.
Stuffed grape leaves filled with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat; a common mezze option.
Bedouin-style underground barbecue, typically featuring lamb or chicken slow-cooked with vegetables and spices in an underground pit.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Markets brimming with olives, dates, fresh produce, breads, spices, and casual street food stalls offering falafel and fresh juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Greet with a polite 'Salam Alaikum' (hello) or 'Marhaba'; use the right hand for handshakes and giving/receiving items. Ask before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Aţ Ţafīlah
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave around 10-15% if service isn’t included. Small tips to cafe staff, guides, and hotel porters are common.
Cash is widely used in smaller shops; many restaurants and larger venues accept credit cards. ATMs are available in Tafila for JD and USD.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with strong sun. Hydration is essential; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; bring sunscreen and a hat.
Cool to cold, especially at night; occasional rain and higher elevation winds. Layered clothing, a warm jacket, and sturdy shoes are recommended.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming rural scenery; ideal for walking and photographing nature. Pack a light jacket for cool mornings.
Mild days and cooler evenings; comfortable for outdoor exploration and short hikes.
Aţ Ţafīlah at Night
Hiking in Aţ Ţafīlah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A range of trails through limestone canyons and scenic ridges; suitable for day hikes and multi-day treks.
Canyon and valley routes near Petra offering dramatic landscapes and accessible day walks.
Airports
How to reach Aţ Ţafīlah by plane.
Amman’s main international gateway; about a 2.5–3.5 hour drive to Tafila depending on route and traffic.
Aqaba’s airport; farther south and less frequent international service; typically combined with a broader Jordan itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Jordanian Arabs with deep ties to local families and agriculture.
Semi-nomadic and village-based groups with strong hospitality and traditional crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region’s most popular sport; local leagues and pickup games are common.
Widely played in schools and clubs; indoor courts are available in Tafila and nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aţ Ţafīlah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Jordanian cuisine naturally offers plenty of vegetarian options like hummus, falafel, grilled vegetables, salads, andWarak Enab; ask for dishes without meat or dairy as needed.