Desert Highway to Aqaba

طريق الصحراء

A scenic drive through the Jordanian desert landscape south from Madaba offering dramatic geological formations and desert scenery. The route connects cultural sites while showcasing the region's natural desert terrain and Bedouin settlements.

Things to do

• Wadi Mujib Viewpoint — Stop at the dramatic canyon overlook along the highway where the deep gorge of Wadi Mujib cuts through rust-colored cliffs.
• Lot's Cave (Deir Ayn Abata) — Visit the ancient Byzantine monastery perched on a cliff edge south of Madaba with panoramic desert views and biblical significance.
• Desert Photography Stop — Pull off at marked scenic viewpoints to capture sweeping vistas of layered desert mountains and valleys in warm afternoon light.
• Bedouin Camp Visit — Stop at roadside Bedouin settlements to observe traditional black tent dwellings and purchase handwoven rugs and crafts directly from families.
• Dead Sea Viewpoint — Access panoramic overlooks of the Dead Sea and Palestinian territories to the west as the highway descends toward lower elevations.
• Wadi Zarqa Ma'in Hot Springs — Detour to natural thermal waterfalls cascading into pools where warm mineral-rich water flows through a narrow canyon near the highway route.

Food to try

• Zarb (Desert-Roasted Meat) — Lamb or chicken slow-cooked underground with vegetables in a sealed pit, a traditional Bedouin specialty served at roadside camps and restaurants.
• Mansaf — A signature Jordanian dish of lamb cooked in tangy yogurt sauce with pine nuts, traditionally eaten communally and available at highway rest stops.
• Fresh Goat Cheese and Bedouin Bread — Tangy local labneh and za'atar-dusted flatbread baked on metal plates over open fires, sold by Bedouin families along the roadside.
• Falafel and Hummus Wraps — Crispy chickpea fritters and creamy chickpea dip wrapped in warm pita, easily found at small cafes and roadside stands throughout the drive.
• Bedouin Tea and Coffee — Strong cardamom-infused Turkish coffee and sweet mint tea served in small cups at Bedouin camps, a gesture of hospitality not to refuse.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly in Remote Areas — Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing and avoid shorts or low necklines, especially when visiting Bedouin settlements and conservative communities.
• Accept Offered Hospitality Graciously — If invited for tea or food at a Bedouin camp, accept at least a small portion as refusal can be considered rude; it is customary to compliment the host.
• Hire a Local Guide for Safety — The remote desert route is safer and more rewarding with a Jordanian driver or guide who knows Bedouin customs and can navigate unpaved detours.
• Carry Sufficient Water and Supplies — Limited facilities exist along the highway; bring at least 2 liters of water per person, sunscreen, and snacks as distances between settlements are significant.