Things To Do
in Ma‘ān
Ma‘ān is a city located in southern Jordan, known for its beautiful desert landscapes and historical sites. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with ruins and archaeological sites scattered throughout the area. The city is also an important transportation hub, connecting various regions of Jordan.
Ma‘ān offers a unique cultural experience, with traditional markets, mosques, and a hospitable local community.
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $7 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ma‘ān Archaeological Museum to learn about the rich history of the region. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café before heading out.
Spend the afternoon exploring the ancient ruins of Al-Ma‘ān, where you can take breathtaking photos. Grab lunch at a nearby eatery to taste local flavors.
As the sun sets, stroll around Ma‘ān's vibrant streets. Dine at a restaurant that offers local dishes and enjoy live music.
Begin your adventure by visiting the scenic Wadi Rum, a short drive from Ma‘ān. Experience the stunning desert landscapes on a guided tour.
Enjoy a packed lunch in the desert while taking in the views. Engage in activities like camel riding or a jeep tour to explore more of the terrain.
Return to Ma‘ān for a relaxed evening. Have dinner at a cozy café, reflecting on your exciting day in the desert.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location near major trade routes and the Red Sea.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
- Diverse natural landscapes, including desert and mountainous regions.
- Growing tourism sector due to proximity to Petra and Wadi Rum.
- Limited economic development and job opportunities.
- Water scarcity issues affecting local communities.
- Infrastructural challenges in transportation and facilities.
- Potential geopolitical tensions in the region.
Best Activities in Ma‘ān
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful rock formations and ancient sites in Wadi Musa, including the spectacular Petra archaeological park.
Embark on a thrilling off-road adventure in the otherworldly desert landscape of Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon.
Experience the natural beauty of Dana Biosphere Reserve by camping under the stars and enjoying the diverse wildlife and landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ma‘ān with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ma‘ān
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its beautiful desert landscapes and rock formations, offering stunning views and great photo opportunities.
Home to the famous ancient city of Petra, featuring unique rock-cut architecture and breathtaking scenic views.
A nature reserve with diverse landscapes, including canyons, mountains, and valleys, providing picturesque vistas and wildlife photography opportunities.
Food in Ma‘ān
Ma‘ān Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Jordanian dish consisting of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice and flatbread. It is a staple at many local celebrations and gatherings. Recommended to try at Al Mukhtar Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A flavorful dish featuring layers of rice, eggplant, and meat, usually chicken or lamb, often flavored with a blend of Middle Eastern spices. Best enjoyed at Zad Al Khair Restaurant.
Thinly sliced, marinated meat, typically beef, chicken, or lamb, cooked on a rotating vertical spit. Served in a wrap or with flatbread, accompanied by pickles, tahini, and vegetables. A popular street food found at many vendors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ma‘ān better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An authentic market where visitors can immerse themselves in the local food culture, offering a variety of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and traditional Jordanian street food such as falafel, hummus, and stuffed pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ma‘ān, Jordan, it is important to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. It is also common to use the Islamic greeting 'As-salamu alaykum' which means 'Peace be upon you'.
Respecting elders is highly valued in Ma‘ān, Jordanian culture. It is customary to show deference to older individuals and address them with appropriate titles such as 'Haji' for men and 'Hajjah' for women.
When dining in Ma‘ān, Jordan, it is polite to accept any food or drink offered as a gesture of hospitality. It is also customary to eat with the right hand, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ma‘ān with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ma‘ān
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Ma‘ān, Jordan, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, so it's always good to check before tipping extra.
In Ma‘ān, Jordan, cash is the dominant form of payment, especially in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and stores. It's always wise to carry some cash for transactions in Ma‘ān.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ma‘ān.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Ma‘ān, Jordan, as the weather is mild and pleasant. The landscape is lush and colorful due to the blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Autumn is another favorable time to visit Ma‘ān, Jordan. The temperatures are cooler, and the foliage begins to change colors, creating stunning sceneries. This season is perfect for enjoying the outdoors and experiencing cultural events and festivals in the region.
Summer in Ma‘ān, Jordan, tends to be hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). It is not the most comfortable time to visit, but if you can handle the heat, you can still enjoy exploring the historical sites and taking part in desert excursions.
Winter can be chilly in Ma‘ān, Jordan, with temperatures averaging around 50°F (10°C). While it's not the peak tourist season, it's a good time to visit for those who enjoy cooler weather and want to avoid the crowds. Additionally, winter is a great time for stargazing in the clear desert skies.
Ma‘ān at Night
Hiking in Ma‘ān
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning canyon offering various trails, including a water trail through canyons. Known for its beautiful views and diverse wildlife.
Famous for its biblical significance, Mount Nebo provides hiking trails with panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea.
Features scenic trails through dense pine forests, with opportunities for bird watching and enjoying nature.
Although primarily known for its archaeological sites, Petra also offers various hiking trails with stunning views of the rock formations.
Jordan’s largest nature reserve with diverse ecosystems and numerous hiking trails that showcase breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ma‘ān through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ma‘ān by plane.
The largest airport in Jordan, located about 30 kilometers south of Amman, it serves as the main international gateway to the country.
Located in Aqaba, this airport mainly serves flights to and from destinations in the Middle East and beyond, being a key entry point for tourists.
Located in Syria, about 120 kilometers to the north of Ma'an, it is the main international airport serving Damascus.
Located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, approximately 600 kilometers to the south of Ma'an, it is one of the busiest airports in the Middle East.
Situated in Cairo, Egypt, about 700 kilometers to the west of Ma'an, it is the primary international airport serving the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Ma‘ān, consisting primarily of ethnic Jordanians of Arab descent.
Nomadic Arab groups who have traditionally inhabited the region surrounding Ma‘ān.
A significant number of Palestinians live in Ma‘ān, especially those who migrated during and after the 1948 Arab-Israeli conflict.
A smaller but notable group, primarily belonging to various Christian denominations.
A growing demographic due to recent conflicts, adding cultural diversity to the area.
The Soul of Ma‘ān
Discover the essence of Ma‘ān through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ma‘ān, with numerous local teams and a strong following among residents.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Ma‘ān, with youth teams and local tournaments promoting the sport.
Volleyball is a favored sport, particularly among women, with various clubs and recreational play.
Athletics, including running and track events, are promoted in schools and local competitions.
Traditional wrestling has a cultural significance and is practiced among the youth in Ma‘ān.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ma‘ān.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat dishes are prominent, many restaurants and cafes in Ma‘ān offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, such as falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, and grilled vegetable platters.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options at select restaurants by informing the staff in advance. Dishes like grilled meats, salads, and rice-based meals are often safe choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ma‘ān with these cultural adventures.
