Kings Highway, Jordan
Jordan
One of the world's oldest continuously used roads, the Kings Highway from Amman south through Madaba's Byzantine mosaics, the Crusader castle of Kerak, the rose-red city of Petra's rock-carved temples, and the vast sandstone wilderness of Wadi Rum where Lawrence of Arabia waged his desert campaign. Three thousand years of trade routes in one drive.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Amman
The Roman Citadel, a 6,000-seat theatre still in use, and the souqs of East Amman frame a city where ancient and modern coexist gracefully.
- Madaba
The 6th-century Madaba Map, oldest cartographic depiction of the Holy Land, is embedded in the floor of the Greek Orthodox Church of St George.
- Kerak Castle
A Crusader fortress besieged seven times by Saladin before falling in 1188. Views reach the Dead Sea on clear days.
- Petra
The Nabataean capital entered through the 1.2 km Siq gorge to the Treasury's 43m facade. The Monastery and High Place extend for kilometres beyond.
- Wadi Rum
Lawrence of Arabia's sandstone wilderness: 720 sq km of rust-red canyons, arches, and towering jebels. Bedouin camps offer nights under the stars.
- Aqaba
Jordan's only sea outlet on the Red Sea. World-class reef diving includes the Cedar Pride wreck, deliberately sunk as an artificial reef.
Where to Eat
- Haret JdoudnaMiddle Eastern
A charming restaurant in Madaba offering traditional Jordanian dishes in a historic setting with live music.
- Al QantarahJordanian
Located in Petra, this restaurant serves authentic Jordanian cuisine with a view of the ancient city.
- Red Sea GrillSeafood
A seaside restaurant in Aqaba known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the Red Sea.
- Al Qidra RestaurantMiddle Eastern
A popular spot in Wadi Rum offering traditional Bedouin dishes in a desert camp setting.
Things to Do
- Mount NeboHistoric Site
A biblical site near Madaba offering panoramic views of the Holy Land and the Dead Sea.
- Dana Biosphere ReserveNature Reserve
Jordan's largest nature reserve, offering diverse wildlife and hiking trails through stunning landscapes.
- Aqaba Marine ParkMarine Park
A protected area in Aqaba ideal for snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
- Wadi MujibCanyon
A dramatic canyon near the Dead Sea, offering adventurous hikes and water treks through its gorges.