From the rose-red city of Petra to the lunar landscapes of Wadi Rum and finally the shimmering shores of the Red Sea, a journey through Jordan’s “Golden Triangle” reveals the country at its most spectacular. Travelling south from Amman, we traced a path through desert, mountains and salt plains before arriving in Aqaba, where turquoise waters, warm hospitality and mountain-framed sunsets made the perfect finale to an unforgettable road trip.
We set off from Amman early in the morning, tucked into the car with a friendly local driver, ready to make our way south through the very best of Jordan. Our route would take us past three iconic destinations often called the “Golden Triangle” of Jordan travel: Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea.
First up was Petra, the ancient Nabatean city carved into sandstone. Then Wadi Rum, the red-sand desert valley also known as the “Valley of the Moon. From there we passed by beautiful landscapes giving way towards the Dead Sea, a surreal salt-flat lake famed for floating effortlessly in its mineral-rich waters. No, I didn’t get in but it was great to see where it was.
Although we didn’t linger long at each stop (the focus was making it into Aqaba by afternoon), the drive itself was part of the magic: the scenery shifting from highland desert to striking red sandstone to the shimmering coastline of the south.
Afternoon – Arrival & First Impressions
By mid-afternoon we arrived in Aqaba, Jordan’s sole coastal city and a destination that immediately stunned us. It’s perched at the northern tip of the Red Sea, framed by mountains rising behind the azure water. A very different landscape from any other part of Jordan.
We checked into the InterContinental Aqaba (Resort Aqaba) — a resort that proved perfect for families yet also offered plenty of evening appeal for couples. We found generously sized rooms and balconies facing straight out to the sea. The setting felt extraordinary: sun, sand, sea and mountains visible from the private beach.
As the afternoon lazily drifted on, we heard the soft, distant call to prayer, the adhaan — drifting across the water and beach. It was a serene moment: lounged on the sand, the waves lapping, mountains framing the horizon, and that gentle religious call creating an almost meditative atmosphere.
Late Afternoon – Beach Time & Water Fun
After a short rest, we dipped into the water which was unbelievably clear, calm and warm. Aqaba’s marine environment is something special: coral-rich reefs, colourful fish, and crystal-clear visibility.
We swam, snorkelled a little, and just allowed ourselves to relax on the private beach. The resort’s location couldn’t have been better: direct beach access, water-sports on offer (parasailing, banana boats or jet-skis if you like), and loungers shaded by palms while the mountains loomed gently behind.
Evening – Dinner & Entertainment
As dusk set in, we headed to dinner by the shore: fresh seafood, local mezze, a gentle breeze off the Red Sea. Then came the entertainment: live Arabic singers performing by the beach, and to our delight they also sang in English. It reminded us how widely English is spoken in Jordan and the Middle East’s tourist-friendly culture. The couple side of the resort came alive, beach-front loungers and comfy chairs, soft lighting, music drifting over the sea, and the kind of relaxed, upscale vibe that felt just right.
Morning – Exploring Aqaba City
The next morning we rose early and enjoyed a hearty breakfast: eggs, hummus, fresh salad, fruits — a strong start before another short outing. The food is delicious wherever you go in Jordan! With a Turkish coffee in hand, we set off into the city centre of Aqaba. The city is vibrant yet relaxed: markets, cafés, fresh seafood by the harbour, and views across the Gulf of Aqaba.
Aqaba is found in the far south of Jordan, bordering both the Red Sea and close to both Saudi Arabia and Israel (though our focus was purely on the beauty of the coastline and city). We wandered through its souk, admired the waterfront promenade, and soaked in the mix of local culture, historical sites, and seaside leisure.
In just 24 hours we travelled from Amman through some of Jordan’s most iconic landscapes and ended in Aqaba — a destination where you can have sun-sand-sea and mountains in one view. The resort stay at the InterContinental offered comfort and family-friendly amenities, with enough romantic atmosphere for the evening too.
Aqaba is a destination that not only feels safe and welcoming but is poised to become one of the region’s hottest tourism hotspots in the years ahead.
The clarity of the Red Sea, the soundscape of the adhan, the mountain backdrop and beach-front water-sports all combined for a unique escape. If you ever find yourself in southern Jordan for a short stay, this is a slice of travel that delivers both adventure and relaxation. For the full feature, pre-order our Winter issue today!
Natasha Syed is the dynamic Editor-in-Chief of British Muslim Magazine, the UK’s premium Travel & Lifestyle publication catering to Muslim audiences. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for celebrating diverse cultures, she leads the magazine in curating inspiring content that bridges heritage, modern luxury, and faith-driven experiences.
Under her leadership, British Muslim Magazine continues to set the standard for authentic, and engaging trusted narratives, making it the go-to source for Muslim traveler's and lifestyle enthusiasts across the UK and beyond.
