Amman

Amman is not only the capital and largest city in Jordan, it is also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. During the 7th Century BC is was named Ammon by the Ammonites who lived there and since then it has been inhabited by the Assyrians, Persians, Greek, Nabateans, Romans, Circassians and Ottomans. It finally became known as Amman during the Islamic period and was designated as the capital city of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in 1921.
When touring Amman be sure to visit The Citadel and the Roman Temple of Hercules, then sit on one of the 6000 seats in the magnificent Roman Theatre, which was built into the mountainside. The Roman Theatre has once again become a place of entertainment where, in the summer, you can enjoy performances, traditional music, folk dancing, plays and modern pop concerts under the stars. Learn about Amman’s rich history when strolling through its numerous museums, boasting centuries of traditional costumes, antique jewelry and crafts. Take the time to visit the teaming market for handmade gold and silver jewelry, local handicrafts, and a taste of the wonderful fresh fruit and vegetables. After dark, this intriguing city shows off its young culture and vibrant nightlife with a multitude of restaurants, bars and nightclubs, some of which have live entertainment featuring old and new Arabic music and dance. So, if you’re a night owl, we recommend you go to Rainbow Street for the best entertainment scene Amman has to offer. In addition, Amman is a great base for day trips to locations such as Jerash, Desert Castles, the Dead Sea and Madaba.

Jerash

Overshadowed by Petra, its popular southern neighbor, Jerash is a site usually overlooked by many visitors, however an excursion to this ancient city is highly recommended and very rewarding.
The city of Jerash lies in an extremely fertile area and has had an unbroken chain of human occupancy for over 6,500 years, reaching its prime during Roman rule. Large parts of this incredible city were unfortunately destroyed during earthquakes, leaving it buried in sand and hidden for centuries until 1925, when it began being excavated and restored. Jerash is now acknowledged as one of the best-preserved examples of a Roman city.
Enter the Jerash’s ancient walls and walk along its paved and colonnaded streets, discover the beauty of the city’s hilltop temples, and revel in centuries of culture and architecture when visiting the theatres, hippodrome, public squares, grand plazas, bath houses and fountains. During springtime, visitors enjoy the bonus of seeing nature at her best when the stunning wildflowers blossom in abundance all over this fertile land. Every July, the Jerash Festival offers an exciting celebration of local and international cultures, as well as performances in the south amphitheatre that include world class ballet, Italian opera, Shakespeare, local folk dancers, and modern music and dance artists.

Madaba and Mount Nobo

Known as the ‘City of Mosaics’ Madaba is famous for its 6th century Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land, a 25 x 5 meter masterpiece containing over 2 million tesserae. Located on the floor of the modern St George Greek Orthodox Church, which is built on the site of an older 6th century church, the map depicts holy sites, hills, valleys, towns and cities spreading as far as the Nile Delta!
Close by is Mount Nebo, which is believed to be Moses’ burial site. Early Christians made pilgrimage to this place, and the first church in the area was built there in the 4th century. Visitors are invited to stand at the top of the mountain, as Moses did when he first saw the Promised Land, and gaze upon the breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, Jerusalem and Jericho.

Dead Sea

Visitors from all over the world come to the Dead Sea to relax and rejuvenate. The area is renowned for its weaker ultraviolet radiation, sunny skies, oxygen enriched dry air, higher atmospheric pressure, thermal springs and mineral rich sea salt and mud, all of which contribute to the Dead Sea’s theraputic and medicinal qualities. The salt, for example, offers a natural remedy for many skin ailments, and the dry climate helps relieve conditions such as asthma. The healing properties of the Dead Sea have been well known for thousands of years, it is believed that King Herod and Cleopatra used to visit the region regularly.
Today, there are several 5 star luxury resorts that line the coast, all with private beaches and spas which offer a wide range of treatments using products made from the Dead Sea’s water, salt and mud. So, after exploring Jordan’s countryside and perhaps going on a few adventures, it is a wonderful idea to treat yourself to some real rest, relaxation and recuperation.

Petra

“Although much has been written about Petra, nothing really prepares you for this amazing place. Iit has to be seen to be believed.” (Dr. Muhammad Ali Alkhuli)
One of the new 7 Wonders of the World, the Nabatean city of Petra is not only Jordan’s most valuable treasure, but its greatest tourist attraction as well. The city of Petra was carved into the pink and red sandstone of the mountainside and was an important trading center connecting trade routes that linked China, India and southern Arabia with Egypt, Syria, Greece and Rome.
Enter Petra through a narrow, 1 km long canyon known as the Siq, whose walls are an attraction in themselves with their amazing colouration and rock formation. As you reach the end of the Siq, you will catch your first glimpse of the impressive Al Khazneh – The Treasury. Beyond the Treasury an entire city perforated with intricately carved tombs beckons you to explore its obelisks, temples, sacrificial altars, Nabatean built Roman style amphitheatre and colonnaded streets. Then, climb over 800 rock-cut steps that lead you to the incredible Al-Deir monument, also known as the Monastery.
Although you can manage to see Petra’s main highlights, such as the Treasury, the Amphitheatre, the central temple – Street of Façade and Royal Tombs, in a single day tour, at least a couple of days are required, and recommended, to fully explore this breathtaking ancient wonder.

Wadi Rum

“Vast, echoing and God like…” T.E Lawrence, The 7 Pillars of Wisdom
If you’re looking for fun and adventure, Wadi Rum, also known as ‘The Valley of the Moon’, is the place for you! The 1,750 m mountains create a natural challenge for serious mountaineers, while hikers can enjoy the tranquillity of the boundless, empty spaces and explore the many canyons and water holes in the area. Travel by horse, camel or 4×4 vehicles as you follow in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, or choose to experience Wadi Rum from a different perspective as you soar over the mountains in a hot air balloon. To end an abundant day, nothing beats savoring the stunning sunset over the red mountains, while you relax and revel in the renowned Bedouin hospitality in one of the many camps on the reserve. Enjoy a delicious traditional meal of Zarb – meat and vegetables cooked under the sand, then fall into a deep slumber under the star spangled desert sky.
Please note that the RSCN  (Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature) are constantly working to protect the flora and fauna in this area. Some of their most successful projects are the Oryx and Ibex release programs (in conjunction with the Shawarmi Reserve breeding centre), the implementation of a management plan that constantly encourages visitors to follow the rules and regulations of the reserve in order to minimise the impact of tourism on the site, and enlisting the local Bedouins’ help by creating incomes from the benefits of sustainable tourism. We profoundly support sustainable tourism and all of our tours in the area are run with the help of the local Bedouins.

Aqaba

Surrounded by mountains to the East and the Red Sea to the South, Aqaba is Jordan’s only coastal city. Its unique micro climate, together with its abundance of activities and attractions, make Aqaba the perfect holiday destination all year round for every type of traveller. With water temperatures ranging from 26ºC in the summer to 18ºC in the winter, it’s never too cold to get wet! So bring your swimming gear and take your pick of the numerous water sports Aqaba has to offer, including para-sailing, jet skis, banana boats, water skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling and of course the most popular of all… scuba diving! We offer guided dives, diving courses and introductory dives, giving visitors a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of the coral reefs at Aqaba Marine Park. For those of you who don’t wish to get wet, we implore you to delight in the equisite coral reefs from one of the many glass bottom boats, or breathe in the refreshing sea air, relax and enjoy a meal on board a cruise.
Aqaba is also rich in history, explore intriguing sites such as the world’s oldest church that dates back to the 3rd century AD, the ruins of the ancient city of Ayla, a Mamluk fort and an archaeological museum. Stroll through the local markets offering souvenirs, clothes and perfumes. Arouse your senses with the fresh fruits, vegetables and spices in the food market, and dine on a variety of local cuisine and international dishes, including some of the tastiest fresh fish and seafood, in Aqaba’s many restuarants. After dinner we suggest that you soak up the ambiance in one of the wonderful street cafes with a scrumptiously sweet desert and a superb cup of cooked coffee or a pot of freshly brewed tea.
Aqaba is a great, convenient base for day tours to Wadi Rum, Petra and the Dead Sea.

Aqaba Snorkeling

All marine life enthusiasts will admit that the Red Sea is a world known location for snorkeling and Scuba Diving. Its deep, clear blue waters offer great visibility, revealing an underwater paradise of colorful corals teeming with fish, some of which are endemic to this region. Due to the fact that most of the coral reefs brush the water’s surface, there is no easier way to enjoy nature’s treasure than simply floating on the water, while observing the intricate eco-system that unfolds before your eyes. To enhance this fantastic experience, and make it worthwhile, we urge you to use one of our local guides and a fish identification chart. Please remember that all snorkeling sites are part of the nature reserve so it is forbidden to catch, touch or feed the fish.

Aqaba Scuba Diving

Tremendous effort has been made by the Aqaba authorities to preserve the delicate flora and fauna of the coral reefs. Some of their projects included building fantastic artificial reefs which alleviate the effects that divers have on the natural reefs. As a result, Aqaba now offers both recreational divers and underwater photographers a diverse haven of interesting sites: Ship wrecks, two sunken airplanes and the underwater museum of war apparatus, which opened at the beginning of 2020, and includes tanks, cannons, helicopters and trucks – thereby creatively re-assigning war machinery to serve nature instead.  
Our Sea Star dive center in Aqaba, run by Mr. William, is very comfortable and well-equipped with a professional, caring team of dive guides. We offer daily guided dives to all the best sites, some of which are accessible from shore, while others are reached by boat.

Aqaba Learn to Dive

Aqaba is a perfect location to learn how to dive. Not only are diving courses an extremely enjoyable activity, it is also a great way to utilize your time and earn your internationally recognized diving certificate. We offer a wide range of courses from a one-hour introductory dive with a private instructor, to a four-day Open Water SCUBA certification. The course runs daily from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, with a one-hour recess to relax and eat lunch in our dive center’s cafeteria. Our ‘Learn to Dive’ program is suitable for the entire family from the age of 10.

Aqaba Cruise

Sea Star operates daily cruises on our house boat, that include a spacious deck for leisure and sunbathing, a scrumptious lunch, and of course ample time to swim, snorkel and scuba dive at some of Aqaba’s prime locations. The cruise leaves Aqaba’s yacht club in the morning and returns in the afternoon, offering you the perfect opportunity to enjoy a day of fun and relaxation suitable for everyone.

International Time

GMT +2.

Entry Visa

Please check according to your nationality if you need a visa. for this information please contact the nearest embassy in your country. Additionally, please check for updates prior to your departure.

Personal Documents

A passport with at least 6 months validity.
Travel and diving insurance – can be purchased on this site.
A credit card is accepted in most places, saving the need to carry excess cash.
Diving certificate, valid diving insurance and a diving log.
Photocopy of your passport, diving certificates and travel insurance.
Make sure to keep it in a separate file from the original documents.

Diving Equipment

It is recommended to bring your own equipment with which you are accustomed to using, especially a mask and a dive computer. Check your diving equipment prior to your departure.  Rented scuba diving equipment must be booked in advance. The average water temperature throughout the year is about 25C, and we recommend a 3-5 millimeter wetsuit, depending on the season you visit.

Photography

In order to ensure your underwater photographic equipment safely crosses the border, you must send us the exact specifications of all photographic equipment, including compact cameras, at least two weeks prior to your arrival.
This is certainly a destination to document. You do not have to be an expert photographer in order to take superb photos to capture some amazing, unique and unforgettable moments. Diving packages are available for most kinds of cameras, for photography above and under water. Easy-to-use extreme cameras are also a popular choice. Our instructors are experts on the subject, and we will be happy to advise and assist in purchasing an underwater photography kit and training prior to the trip.

Clothing

It is unnecessary to pack a lot of clothing on a summer-beach holiday. A light garment to wear
in the day between dives is recommended. If you are planning to travel to Wadi Rum or Petra, or visiting Aqaba on winter time, pack warm clothing and appropriate hiking shoes.
Jordan is a Muslim country and it is advisable to consider the sensitivities in terms of clothing, especially in public places, markets and restaurants.

Medication and First Aid

Pre-equip yourself with enough personal medication, the chance of obtaining specific drugs is small. Pack a high factor sunscreen, hat and long light clothing to protect you from prolonged exposure to desert weather. There are not special vaccine requirements for visiting Aqaba, however, we recommend you keep updated with your local Ministry of Health website.

Transportation and Arrival by Land

There are few land borders between Israel and Jordan. Arava border, between Aqaba and Eilat, opens midweek at 07:00 and 08:00 on weekends. The border closes every evening at 20:00. The border crossing can get quite busy during opening hours due to a great deal of tourists travelling to Petra on day trips.

Border tax on the Israeli side is 105 shekels per person and 10 Jordanian Dinar on return to Israel on the Jordanian side. If you stay 3 nights or more, there is no need to pay the Jordanian tax. This information, as in the past, may be modified by the Jordanian government  without prior notice.

After crossing the Israeli side, it is necessary to walk about 150 meters to the Jordanian side of the border, there our representative will be waiting for you and assist with the conduct of passing the Jordanian passport control, money exchange etc. Our shuttle will await you as soon as you exit the border crossing ready to transfer you to the destination of your choice, diving club, hotel or excursion. If you arrive by flight, transfers can be easily arranged.

Flights

Aqaba can be reached by international flight, or by a domestic flight from Amman. When you receive your flight ticket, please ensure that your name is spelled exactly as in your passport! Whilst checking in, make sure that the label on your suitcase shows AQJ as the final destination of your trip. You must arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. The number of bags and their weight should comply with airline restrictions to avoid overweight charges. Weight regulations are strict on domestic flights and entail a nominal fee for every extra kilo.

Communication

Communication from Aqaba is easy and most places have Israeli communications network access. If you are planning to travel to the north or into the desert for one of the wonderful hikes the area has to offer, you may purchase a local sim or buy a communications package from your local operator.

Weather

The weather is convenient all year round and although seasonal allows perfect diving conditions throughout the year. Although water temperatures hardly differ (The average water temperature throughout the year is about 25C), ground temperatures are dramatic between summer and winter and day and night. Northern winds are common and range between 10-15 knots and the sea is wavy in the southern region.

Sea Conditions

The northern region of the Gulf of Eilat offers wonderful sea conditions throughout the year. Compared to other diving destinations around the world, the area is similar to diving in an aquarium with hardly any currents, amazing visibility, calm sea waters and ideal diving conditions. Between seasons southern winds can develop into storms that cause waves and also impair visibility. It is recommended to always keep up to date with the sea conditions before traveling.

Electrical Supply

220V- The sockets are British and we recommend to bring a universal adapter, to avoid problems. Sockets are compatible for plugs with two wide, flat pins.

Money

The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar. If you cross by land, it is advisable to exchange currency on crossing the border on the Jordanian side at the bank opposite passport control. Only exchange the amount you think you will need, mostly for purchasing souvenirs or leaving tips. It is advisable to pay for activities prior to your arrival in order to save carrying unnecessary amounts of cash with you. Credit cards are accepted by most tourism service providers and at hotels.

Local Taxes

Entrance to Aqaba via the southern border is tax free. On leaving via the same border 10 Dinar tax payment is required and is payed directly at the border crossing, in cash  only. If you stay 3 nights or more, there is no need to pay the Jordanian tax. This information, as in the past, may be modified by the Jordanian government without prior notice.

Emergency Numbers and Decompression Chambers

The decompression chamber is located at the Princess Haya Hospital in Aqaba
Phone 32014114 962 + Dr. Jamal Rifai

You can also cross the Israeli border and reach the decompression chamber in Eilat in reasonable time, however this decision is at the discretion and the responsibility of the diver and in accordance with case at hand.

Land Activities FAQ

What are the advantages of booking with us?

When you choose to book a Red Sea Triangle tour, you can sit back and relax while we design your all-in-one package deal tailored especially for you. After years of experience and personal familiarity with the people and places, we can guarantee that your 3-country trip (or 2, or 1..) is planned using the best local operators and tour guides. We will take care of all your logistics, sparing you the time and hassle of coordinating things in languages and places you are less familiar with. In addition, we are happy to book your international flights and accommodations, so all you will have left to do is pack, arrive and enjoy!

So what do I have to take care of?

We are more than happy to book everything for you from A to Z 🙂 

Do I have to book all of the trip with you?

You are most welcome to book everything with us, from A to Z! You are also very welcome to book some parts of your vacation with us and book the rest on your own. Our menu is flexible – you can plan a trip tailored specifically for your exact needs and desires. We believe every trip is like a personal puzzle which we are happy to build for you piece by piece. You can also complete any missing pieces on your own. 

Are the tours guided?

Yes, all of our tours are accompanied by professional and experienced English-speaking guides. These also include our water-oriented tours – snorkeling and diving activities. In some cases, we can also provide guides who speak your own language – French, German, Spanish and more.

Is accommodation included? How will we know to choose the best accommodation for us?

Accommodation is not included in our offered trips. However, you can book your accommodation with us either for all or some destinations according to your preferred personal standard.

Are transfers included?

Yes! Our offered tours include transfers, in comfortable a\c cars. Domestic flights (or any flight in between the 3 countries) are also included depending on your chosen plan.

Are these trips family oriented? suitable for children?

Yes! A big part of what we offer is family oriented and definitely suitable for family with kids – youngsters and teenagers – including our water-oriented activities.  Introductory dives can be done from the age of 8, and the open water dive course is available for children from the age of 10 (12 in Israel).

We booked a trip including land border crossing. Will we be doing this on our own?

There will always be an agent present at each of your pre-booked land border crossing. Our agents will assist you and ensure you cross safely and efficiently.

Should we be aware of anything important regarding clothing?

All three countries are hot year-round, it is advisable that you dress accordingly. The desert sun is strong, and it is advisable to use sun protectors (for more information please read the “Know before you go” section).

The capital cities – Jerusalem, Cairo and Amman – are mostly populated by a religious public and modesty is a very important value in their way of life. You are requested to respect the locals and avoid wearing tank tops revealing your shoulders and\or belly. In addition, short pants and dresses should not be worn unless covering below your knees.  For us ladies, it is inappropriate and unacceptable to go topless at the beach, at any of these 3 countries, in any of the water sources.

I am a vegan\ vegetarian\ have some special food or diet choices or allergies. Should it be a problem?

The middle-eastern kitchen is well known for its richness and variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Deliciously spiced veggie stews and a wide variety of legumes are traditional and street food. As part of our good service, we are aware of various types of diet preferences, in all 3 countries. While booking a trip with us, please let us know of any special food request you may have and remember to come with an open mind to try some special middle eastern delicious food!

Water Activities FAQ

Is the visit to Aqaba also suitable for non-divers?

The answer is defiantly yes! The visit to Aqaba is a pleasant experience for everyone. Beach lovers can sunbathe and snorkel in almost all of the southern dive sites and beaches, The hotels offer good standards of service and facilities and there are also top notch resorts with a host of attractions for all ages, facilities and swimming pools. Aqaba offers amazing day and half day trips to Wadi Rum or the Nabataea city of Petra which are both highly recommended for all ages.

Is it worth staying in Aqaba?

All hotels at all level in Aqaba are excellent and are a great alternative to accommodation in Eilat. Prices are cheaper by approximately 30% than those in Eilat and it is worthwhile crossing the border the evening before you plan your first dive, to enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the good local restaurants. Aqaba offers a spectacular range of hotels such as the 3-star Captain Hotel, or the 5 star Radisson Blu resort, located on the South Coast with several pools and a private beach.

For how many days should you plan a scuba diving trip to Aqaba?

We recommend at least a 3 day trip that include a minimum of 6 dives.
It is recommended to combine at least one day of diving from a dive boat as well as a sunset trip to Wadi Rum with a traditional Bedouin desert dinner. You may also combine a trip to Petra before, during or after the dive trip. There is no doubt that, due to the beautiful sites, warm hospitality and easy accessibility, you will return to dive in Aqaba again!

Do I need to be an experienced diver to participate in such a trip?

The diving sites are comfortable, relatively simple and suitable for all divers. The dives in Jordan are guided dives. If you haven’t been diving for the past year, a refresh dive must be performed before your arrival although you can also do this in Aqaba. There are wall and shipwreck dives in Aqaba so this is definitely an interesting destination for experienced divers.

Can I Dive with Nitrox in Jordan?

Nitrox is available but it is recommended to book this service in advance. The use of Nitrox can be used to increase the safety ranges by using your dive computer on normal air condition mode.

Are there Offshore Dives in Aqaba?

Most dive sites are accessible from the beach and we recommend incorporating a day of diving from a dive boat on each trip. Diving from a boat allows you to reach the Power Station site which is the only wall site in Aqaba and the diving there is impressive and beautiful. The dive boat only costs approximately $50 including lunch and two dives. Boats leave for a day sailing with a minimum of 4 participants .

Do I Need Medical Approval to Dive?

In principle, the requirement for medical approval is international with a medical statement accepted by diving organizations. If the answers to all the questions in your health declaration are negative, then there is no problem. If there are positive answers, consult your diving doctor and get approval. If you are over the age of 45, medical approval is required.

Should I Purchase My Own Diving Equipment?

The answer to this question is according to the amount of dives. Naturally, when planning a scuba diving trip you can decide to purchase full or partial scuba equipment. We recommend to purchase your own mask and personal dive computer. We would be happy to be at your service and offer advice on purchasing equipment.