Things To Do
in Şammā
Şammā is a village in Jordan known for its picturesque setting amidst the mountains. It is located in the Balqa Governorate in the northwestern part of the country. The village offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Şammā is also known for its traditional architecture and friendly 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: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by visiting the iconic Petra. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you hike through the Siq to reach Al-Khazneh.
After exploring Al-Khazneh, continue to the Royal Tombs and the Roman Theater. Grab a quick lunch at a local café nearby to recharge.
As night falls, take a short walk in the surrounding area to experience the tranquility of Petra at dusk. Consider joining the Petra by Night tour which showcases the site illuminated by candles.
Begin your journey in Wadi Rum with a guided jeep tour of the stunning desert landscape. Take in the impressive rock formations and vast open spaces.
Stop for a traditional Bedouin lunch in the desert and experience the local culture. After lunch, consider a camel ride to explore more remote areas.
Watch the sunset over the desert plains, creating a beautiful backdrop. Camp under the stars and enjoy a night of Bedouin storytelling.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including nearby mountains and valleys.
- Pleasant climate, especially in spring and autumn.
- Close-knit community with friendly locals.
- Low cost of living compared to larger cities in Jordan.
- Limited job opportunities and economic development.
- Basic infrastructure and public services may be lacking.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping options.
- Risk of isolation due to its smaller size and rural setting.
Best Activities in Şammā
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Wadi Mujib, known for its beautiful canyons and natural reserves. Various trails cater to different skill levels.
Experience the unique sensation of floating in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea, and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of its mineral-rich mud.
Thrill seekers can enjoy quad biking adventures through the barren landscapes and sand dunes, offering a unique way to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Take a day trip to Petra, the ancient city famous for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not to be missed.
Experience breathtaking views of the night sky by camping in the desert. The clear air and lack of light pollution make for incredible stargazing opportunities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Şammā with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Şammā
Visit one of these nice places.
Spectacular desert landscape offering stunning views and natural formations that are perfect for photography.
Ancient city with breathtaking rock-cut architecture and scenic views, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Historical site with panoramic views of the city and ancient ruins, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Scenic nature reserve offering diverse landscapes and hiking trails, allowing for great views and photo opportunities.
Food in Şammā
Şammā Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Jordanian dish consisting of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt, served with rice and topped with nuts. Best experienced at local family-run restaurants or during special occasions and celebrations.
Must-Try!
A popular one-pot dish made with layers of spiced rice, vegetables, and your choice of meat, typically chicken or lamb, cooked in a flavorful broth and then flipped upside down when served.
Similar to Maqluba, Maglouba is a delicious dish of meat, rice, and fried vegetables that's known for its comforting and satisfying flavors.
A beloved dessert made of thin noodle-like pastry, typically topped with cheese, soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup, and layered with crushed nuts. It can be found in local bakeries and sweet shops.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Şammā better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling marketplace offers a wide array of fresh produce, local spices, herbs, and a variety of street food stalls where you can sample traditional Jordanian snacks like falafel, shawarma, and savory pastries.
A vibrant street known for its diverse food scene, offering a mix of quaint cafes, trendy eateries, and street food vendors serving up delicious falafel, hummus, and traditional Jordanian sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Şammā and throughout Jordan, it's important to dress modestly, especially in public spaces. Men and women should wear clothing that covers arms and legs to respect local customs and norms.
When greeting someone in Şammā, a firm handshake is common among men. Women may prefer to avoid physical contact with men unless they are familiar. It's polite to greet the elders first and to use proper titles when addressing individuals.
Jordanian culture values hospitality, so if invited to someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift such as sweets or fruit. When sharing a meal, it's polite to wait for the host to start before you begin eating, and it's common to enjoy food with your right hand.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Şammā with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Şammā
Ensure a smooth experience
In Şammā, Jordan, tipping is a common practice and is generally appreciated in restaurants, cafes, hotels, and for services such as taxis. It is customary to tip around 10% of the total bill if service has been satisfactory. In some cases, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is also acceptable. Tipping may not be expected in all establishments, but it is seen as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
Payment practices in Şammā involve a mix of cash and card transactions. While cash is widely accepted and often preferred, particularly in smaller establishments and markets, credit and debit cards are increasingly used in larger businesses, hotels, and restaurants. It is advisable for visitors to carry cash, as smaller shops may not have card facilities. Additionally, the local currency is the Jordanian dinar (JOD), which is commonly used for all transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Şammā.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Şammā with moderate temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Another great time to visit Şammā with pleasant weather and clear skies.
Hot and dry weather, less ideal for visiting.
Cool temperatures, occasional rain, and snow-capped mountains in the surrounding areas.
Şammā at Night
Hiking in Şammā
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning natural reserve known for its dramatic canyons and diverse wildlife, offering various hiking trails with breathtaking views.
A scenic area filled with dense oak and pine forests, featuring multiple trails ideal for hiking, cycling, and nature walks.
A historically significant mountain providing panoramic views of the Holy Land, along with hiking paths reflecting biblical history.
Jordan's largest nature reserve, offering various trails through its unique and varied landscapes, rich in flora and fauna.
A short hike with stunning views of the Dead Sea, along pathways that highlight the surrounding natural beauty and historical sites.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Şammā through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Şammā by plane.
The main international airport serving Amman, the capital city of Jordan. It is well-connected to various international destinations.
Located in Aqaba, this airport offers international flights and is the gateway to the Red Sea resorts.
Located in Syria, this airport is approximately 140 km from Şammā and serves a variety of international destinations.
Israel's main international airport, located near Tel Aviv, approximately 200 km from Şammā.
Situated in Egypt, it is one of the busiest airports in Africa, located about 550 km from Şammā.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Şammā, Jordan, constituting a majority of the population.
A significant demographic in Şammā, many of whom have historical ties to the region.
Nomadic tribes that have a cultural presence in the region.
Including Greek Orthodox and Catholic communities, representing a smaller portion of the population.
Includes smaller populations such as Armenians, Circassians, and others.
The Soul of Şammā
Discover the essence of Şammā through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Şammā, with a strong local following and many clubs participating in regional leagues.
Basketball enjoys a significant fan base in Şammā, with local schools and clubs engaging in competitions.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and community centers, promoting teamwork and athleticism.
Track and field events are popular in Şammā, with many young athletes participating in local and national competitions.
Handball has been growing in popularity, with local teams and clubs fostering talent among young players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Şammā.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Jordanian cuisine heavily features meats, many restaurants and cafes in Şammā offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes like falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, and various vegetable-based mezze.
Those with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes such as grilled meats, salads, and rice-based dishes at local restaurants. It's advisable to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods to ensure compatibility with a gluten-free diet.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Şammā with these cultural adventures.