Things To Do
in Muthallath al Azraq
Muthallath al Azraq sits at coordinates 31.8342, 36.815 in Jordan's eastern desert, a sparse settlement framed by flat arid plains. The landscape features salt flats, scrubby desert and small oases that punctuate long, clear horizons. It serves as a quiet gateway to desert adventures and the nearby wetlands, with a friendly, hospitality-focused local community.
Visitors come for stargazing, birding along the wetlands, and the chance to experience Bedouin life away from busier cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Muthallath al Azraq, where the scenic beauty of the desert landscape immediately captivates you. After settling into your accommodation, take a leisurely walk in the surrounding area to familiarize yourself with this unique ecosystem. Gather your essentials and prepare for a thrilling adventure into the heart of the reserve.
Post-lunch, embark on a guided nature hike to explore the distinct biodiversity of the Azraq Wetland. This area is rich with avian life, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers. Engage with your guide to learn about the local flora and fauna, and capture unforgettable moments.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Jordanian dinner at a local restaurant. Take in the stunning views of the desert as the sky transitions into twilight, providing a perfect backdrop for reflection on your first day. Wind down with some storytelling around a campfire, soaking in the peaceful desert atmosphere.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a thrilling desert safari. Explore the remarkable geological formations and unique rock structures that characterize the Azraq region. Experience the thrill of dune bashing and navigate through the mesmerizing desert landscape.
After an exhilarating morning, take a break for lunch at a Bedouin camp, where you can enjoy traditional food and hospitality. Following the meal, immerse yourself in the culture by participating in local crafts or learning about traditional Bedouin life. The afternoon offers a perfect blend of adventure and cultural insights.
As the day winds down, head back to your camp to refresh before dinner. Enjoy another delightful dinner under the stars, sharing stories with fellow travelers and enjoying the tranquility of the desert night. The evening concludes with stargazing, where the clarity of the desert sky reveals constellations you may have never seen before.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🚗One-way local transport | $1-4 |
| 💧Bottle of water (0.5-1.5 L) | $0.5-1.5 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich desert scenery and stargazing
- Warm hospitality and authentic Bedouin culture
- Proximity to the Azraq Wetlands for birding and nature photography
- Low crowds outside peak travel season
- Limited dining and nightlife options
- Sparse public transport outside the towns
- Potentially hot summers requiring careful planning
- Basic medical facilities in the immediate area
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlak" - Please (masc)
- "Min fadlik" - Please (fem)
- "Law samaht" - Excuse me / Pardon me
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kam hatha?" - How much is this?
- "Hal tatakallam al-Inglizia?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ana la afham" - I do not understand
- "Ilā al-liqa'" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Muthallath al Azraq
Visit one of these nice places.
A salt-marsh fringe where migratory birds gather; golden hour lighting makes for striking silhouettes.
Rolling dunes with clear horizons, ideal for low-angle desert photography and night sky shots.
Remnants of historic trade routes provide textured stone frames and a sense of place.
Narrow lanes with whitewashed walls and vibrant doorways, excellent for portrait and detail shots.
Food in Muthallath al Azraq
Muthallath al Azraq Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The national dish of lamb cooked in a thick yogurt sauce, served with rice or bulgur and toasted almonds.
Must-Try!
Lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions; a staple comfort food.
Bedouin-style underground barbecue where marinated meat and vegetables cook slowly in a clay pit.
Crispy falafel served with hummus, tahini, and warm bread, widely available at street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small town market offering olives, fresh bread, feta, herbs, and seasonal produce; great for a quick bite and supplies.
Falafel wraps, shawarma, fresh juices, and za’atar bread along the main street in the afternoons and evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Opt for shoulders and knees covered in public spaces; pools and beach areas in resorts may be more relaxed.
Ask before photographing people; in rural areas, people may be wary of cameras.
It is common to be offered tea; accepting graciously is part of local etiquette.
Use the right hand for giving and receiving, especially in exchanges.
Safety
Tipping in Muthallath al Azraq
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafés, a 10-15% tip is customary if service is not included. Small tips for guides or drivers are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted in towns; credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted in larger eateries and hotels; ATMs are available in Azraq.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot, dry days with cool nights; carry water, sun protection, and a hat; aim for dawn and dusk photography and outdoor activities early or late.
Milder days with pleasant evenings; great for outdoor exploration and longer daylight hours.
Cool to cold temperatures; occasional rain; layers are essential; excellent for dramatic skies and clear visibility.
Mild temperatures and blooming vegetation; bird migrations bring rich wildlife photography opportunities.
Muthallath al Azraq at Night
Hiking in Muthallath al Azraq
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A curated desert hike along rolling dunes with wide-open skies and photo-friendly horizons.
Short loop through palm groves and scrub near the oasis edges, suitable for a half-day hike.
Gentle walk among ancient stone ruins along trade-route corridors, offering texture for photography.
Airports
How to reach Muthallath al Azraq by plane.
Main international gateway to Jordan, located near Amman; about a 1.5–2 hour drive to Azraq depending on road conditions.
Jordan’s southern gateway near Aqaba; more distant from Azraq but useful for combining a Red Sea stopover with desert visits.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of the eastern desert towns, including Bedouin communities and farmers.
Historically nomadic or semi-nomadic families with strong desert heritage and hospitality.
A portion of the regional population includes refugees living in camps nearby and host communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Jordan; local teams and street games are common in towns.
Widely played in schools and community centers; pickup games can be found in towns.
Traditional desert activities and competitions in some camps.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Muthallath al Azraq.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most traditional dishes can be adjusted to vegetarian versions with hummus, mujadara (lentils) and salads; ask for no meat stock.
Choose hummus, falafel, and vegetable dishes; verify no dairy in sauces and stock.
Inform staff about sesame, nuts, and dairy; cross-contact can occur in small kitchens; opt for bread, olive oil, vegetables, and plain rice when in doubt.