The Top 5 Wellness Activities in Jordan

1. A serene balloon ride over Wadi Rum

Float like a butterfly over the haunting terrain of the majestic Wadi Rum desert, observing the lunar-landscape rock formations from a bird’s eye view. Here, the wild winds have carved imposing sandstone towers into the desert, forming a ruggedly beautiful panorama. Expect an early start to soak up the sights in the soft morning light and enjoy a peaceful, romantic experience as you soar over the sands.

2. A sumptuous spa day at Ayla

If you take your wellness with a splash of luxury, consider a stay at Ayla, one of Jordan’s swankiest design resorts. Book yourself a rejuvenating pampering session at the on-site Hyatt Regency Aqaba, where the Aqua Spa offers state-of-the-art facilities including six treatment rooms, a yoga garden, and a relaxing outdoor pool. From body scrubs and foot baths to couples massage treatments, you can expect the A-List treatment at Ayla.

3. Fresh and authentic local cuisine

You can tuck into delicious foods without compromising on nutrition in Jordan, thanks to the abundance of fresh, locally-produced ingredients and the emphasis on nourishing spices. Sample sweet dates, salty olives and golden honeycomb for breakfast, served with a fluffy round of fire-baked bread. Or savour the soft cheese and creamy labneh from the herds of the hills, a stalwart of the Middle Eastern mezze. Look out for the traditional za’atar, a blend of herbs and seeds that serves as a base for many Jordanian specialties. It’s rich in antioxidants so you’ll be treating your body as well as your tastebuds.

4. A mud bath in the Dead Sea

You can’t go in search of wellness in Jordan without succumbing to the siren song of the legendary Dead Sea. It’s said that Cleopatra herself treated her skin with the famous black mud of this region, thanks to its curative, clarifying qualities. Give yourself a DIY facial by slathering it on generously and baking in the hot sun for 15 minutes before washing it all away. If it’s good enough for the Queen of the Nile…

5. A Turkish hammam

Treat yourself to a traditional Turkish hammam, and partake in a centuries-old tradition that will steam the desert dust out of your pores. The full hammam ritual includes a full steam, followed by a rigorous body scrub to remove all impurities, and a relaxing massage to conclude. Be aware that the true hammam experience involves no clothes at all, so prepare to embrace the culture or request to wear a swimsuit! And remember to give yourself a little extra time to sip a glass of sherbet or cup of Turkish tea while swaddled in towels at the end of your treatment.

Wellness in Jordan is growing by the day, so for a restorative holiday that will give you your glow back, you couldn’t pick a better destination.