A city left a little on the sidelines and not reached by mass tourism, however essential to understand the complexity of this magnificent country!
All 'extreme south of Jordan is situated Aqaba: the only outlet to the sea in this magical state. The Red Sea that bathes the coasts of Jordan it is one of its many attractions, but also a crossing point to visit the nearby ones Israel and Egypt.
Aqaba is a combination of relaxation, sport and a pinch of culture. The perfect base for visiting the red desert of Wadi Rum, for a walk in the biosphere of Dana or to visit one of the seven wonders of the world, Petra.
So here are three things not to be missed in Aqaba.
1. Red Sea between snorkeling and diving
Aqaba is famous for its snorkeling and diving sites, the schools that offer these services and the beaches. The marine life of the Red Sea is rich and colorful, while the mild climate even during the winter allows you to embark on this adventure whenever you want.
The ecosystem of the Gulf of Aqaba counts more than a thousand species of fish and 240 of corals; if you are lucky you might even spot some turtles.
If you want to take your diving certification, this is the place! The calm waters of the gulf guarantee perfect conditions even for beginners. Furthermore, under the surface of this sea everything is hidden: over 25 diving sites, including coral reefs, shipwrecks, tanks and even an airplane.
2. A resort on the Red Sea
If you prefer comfort and relaxation then head to the Berenice Beach Club. This resort is reachable within 15 minutes by car and allows you to enjoy a wonderful day on the shores of the Red Sea for only 12 €.
Further south, however, you can find all the free and more Spartan beaches if you don't want to spend even money.
A magnificent sunset
Furthermore, the view of the sunset is inevitable. Be ready on the shores of the sea to see the sun disappear behind the mountains of Egypt. You will never forget this show!
3. Historical Aqaba
Aqaba is not only the Red Sea, it is also history and archeology. This city played a fundamental and strategic role in the history of the Arabic Peninsulaa: it was ruled first by the Byzantines then by the Arabs and finally it was the scene of the battle of Aqaba also shown in the film Lawrence of Arabia.
Although many of the historical remains have been destroyed, it is still possible to see traces of what was one of the first Arab cities in the city center, Ayla. Ayla, in fact, was the first Islamic city built outside the Arabian Peninsula, unfortunately destroyed by the Crusades and the attacks of the Bedouins, whose site was rediscovered only in 1980.
Another historical site is the Aqaba Fort, also called the castle of the Mammalucchi. Built during the Crusades in the XNUMXth century, it later became a strategic location during the clashes at the time of Lawrence of Arabia.
To conclude the visit of the city, do not miss the many souk that populate it, a symbol of Jordan and a bit of the whole Arab tradition.
In short, Aqaba is a city left a little on the sidelines tour of Jordan, but it remains a fundamental step to understand the variety and complexity of this land.
