Things To Do
in Buşayrā
Buşayrā is a small desert town in southern Jordan, perched on the edge of the Wadi Araba plains and surrounded by rugged sandstone hills. Its skyline features simple stone and whitewashed houses that rise along winding lanes, giving a timeless Bedouin character. Visitors encounter warm hospitality, traditional guesthouses, and easy access to iconic sites in the Petra and Dana regions.
From Buşayrā, you can base day trips to Petra, Little Petra, and the Dana Biosphere Reserve while enjoying quiet desert scenery away from crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Buşayrā and settle into your cozy accommodation, taking a moment to appreciate the stunning natural beauty surrounding you. Enjoy a traditional Jordanian breakfast at a local café to fuel your adventures. Explore the nearby gorgeous landscapes to get a taste of the vibrant flora and fauna of the region.
Visit the ancient ruins of the Buşayrā archaeological site, where you can wander among the remnants of long-lost civilizations. Take guided tours to learn about the rich history and culture embedded in the stone carvings and architectural wonders. Capture breathtaking photographs of the landscape and ruins in the golden afternoon light.
Savor a delightful dinner at a traditional Jordanian restaurant, where you can try local specialties such as mansaf or falafel. Enjoy the warm atmosphere of the village as locals gather and share stories. Wind down your day by soaking in the majestic sunset views over the mountains.
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour to explore Buşayrā's historical sites including the remnants of ancient churches and Roman tombs. Engage with knowledgeable locals and historians who can share fascinating tales from the past. Take time to walk around the area, capturing the stories etched in the stones.
Head to the nearby desert for a unique experience of hiking through stunning trails overlooking the vast landscapes and intriguing rock formations. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch surrounded by nature, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the desert atmosphere. Observe the unique flora that thrives in this arid environment.
Return to Buşayrā just in time to enjoy a meal at a local eatery famous for its delicious grilled meats. Join a cultural night event where you can experience traditional music and dance with locals. Share laughter and stories under a starlit sky, deepening your connection with the enchanting landscape.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🧭Souvenir or market purchases | $5-40 |
| 🚗Car rental per day | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Spectacular desert landscapes and easy access to Petra and Dana Reserve
- Warm hospitality and affordable travel experience
- Low crowds in most areas outside Petra’s peak season
- Rich Bedouin culture and authentic local cuisine
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options beyond cafes
- Desert heat in summer and remote road travel can be challenging
- Occasional gaps in English-speaking staff in small establishments
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is the price?
- "لا شكراً" - No, thank you
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "ساعدني" - Help me
Places to Visit in Buşayrā
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic desert and canyon views with warm evening light; ideal for golden-hour photography and silhouettes of distant Petra rocks.
Distant, dramatic profiles of Petra’s ridges on clear days; a longer approach yields dramatic sunrise or sunset shots.
Rolling terraces and dramatic escarpments offering wide-angle opportunities and encounters with wildlife and birds.
Narrow canyons and carved facades with soft light, perfect for exploring textures and historical lines.
Photograph the traditional architecture, doors, and staircases that weave through Buşayrā’s hillside streets.
Food in Buşayrā
Buşayrā Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The national dish of lamb cooked in yogurt sauce and served over rice with flatbread; a festive centerpiece often shared with guests.
Must-Try!
Lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions; a hearty vegetarian staple that pairs with yogurt or salad.
An upside-down rice dish layered with meat and vegetables; flavorful and comforting in a desert setting.
Classic mezze staples that are widely available in cafés and roadside stalls; great for a light, veggie-forward meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, herbs, breads, olives, and dairy sold by friendly vendors; look for fresh greens, beans, and flatbreads to pair with dips.
Casual spots offering falafel, falafel sandwiches, shawarma, and sweet pastries—the perfect quick bite after a day of exploring.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Salaam or Marhaba; use polite titles like Sayyid or Sit for elders; offer tea or coffee as a sign of welcome.
Modest dress is appreciated in public, especially in rural areas; avoid loud public displays of affection and expect to remove shoes when entering some homes.
Ask before photographing people or private spaces; some families may request a small donation or a share of the photo.
Safety
Tipping in Buşayrā
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included. In nicer establishments, 10% is common. Guides and drivers may expect small tips at the end of a trip.
Cash is widely accepted in smaller towns; many tourist-focused places accept credit/debit cards, especially near Petra and Ma’an. ATMs are common in larger towns; carry a bit of local currency for markets and casual eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days with cool nights; plan outdoor activities for early morning and late afternoon, stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Mild to cool days with chilly evenings; occasional rain and strong winds; bring a warm layer and a light waterproof jacket.
Pleasant temperatures, blooming shrubs, and clear skies; ideal for hiking, photography, and outdoor meals outdoors in shaded courtyards.
Comfortable weather with shrinking daytime heat; great for canyon walks and cultural visits without the peak-summer crowds.
Buşayrā at Night
Hiking in Buşayrā
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trails through diverse landscapes, from rocky escarpments to riverine corridors, suitable for day hikes and longer treks.
Scenic routes offering carved facades, narrows, and views of the main Petra canyon system.
Historic fortress area with surrounding canyons and desert scenery, ideal for day hikes with viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Buşayrā by plane.
Main international gateway to Jordan; located near Amman, with frequent connections to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. From AMM, you can reach Buşayrā via road transfer or a domestic flight plus ground transport.
A smaller international airport serving the Aqaba region and southern routes; convenient if combining a Red Sea visit with Buşayrā.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing desert families with strong hospitality traditions; you’ll encounter their cuisine, music, and shepherding lifestyles.
Residents of Buşayrā and nearby towns who support tourism through guesthouses, markets, and small eateries.
Visitors drawn to Petra, Dana Reserve, and related cultural heritage sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Jordan, played informally in streets and organized clubs alike.
Growing interest in long-distance desert treks and weekend group runs across nearby reserves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Buşayrā.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy mujadara, hummus and falafel plates, salads, lentil soups, and bread-based dips; ask for oil- or ghee-free options if needed and confirm that meat stock is not used in soups.