A holiday in Jordan is great for thrill-seekers

A holiday in Jordan is great for thrill-seekers

There are a number of reasons why Jordan would be a great holiday destination, starting with the rich history and culture, through the fascinating eco systems and wildlife, to the array of leisure activities. But aside from the epic ancient ruins of civilisations past, probably one of the most exciting prospects is the variety of adventurous activities that Jordan can cater for.

Firstly, consider what has to be one of the most exciting forms of travel that has fascinated man since the dawn of time; flight. Not merely sitting on an aeroplane for a few hours with nothing to do except for push the tragic excuse for food around your plate. Rather, getting involved with the type of flight where you’re exposed to the elements, where there is as little as possible between you and the clouds. For instance, hand gliding, ok so it’s not flying but it’s still pretty exhilarating. The deserts that make up Jordan is washed over by several thermal currents that are generated by winds channelling through the soaring cliffs. For this reason, Wadi Rum an ideal location for anyone who wants to try their luck at hang gliding, kiting or even parascending.

If you do not have a good head for heights and taking to the skies doesn’t appeal to you, then the plunging Jordan Rift Valley includes the famous Dead Sea, which is the lowest spot on earth at 410 metres below sea level. At a more hospitable level, there is The Red Sea Resort, where the warm waters are no doubt enticing for anyone who enjoys a bit of diving or any other watersports such as speedboating, wind surfing, sailing, snorkelling and many more.

Finally if you’re not enticed by the skies or the waters then there is also the opportunity to take to horseback. Although this may not be as exhilarating as hang gliding it does provide an interesting experience that replicates the routes that would have been taken by spice, silk and frankincense traders centuries ago. These routes pass through the green hills of Petra, north Jordan, and Amman, and for the more daring there is the option of embarking on a four-day trek through the eastern desert, with stopping points such as castles. For anyone who is a fan of Lawrence of Arabia or horses the prospect of such an adventure must be appealing, just so long as you know you’re going the right way and not heading aimlessly into the harsh desert.