Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Aqaba, in the south of the country, has
wonderful beaches and a world-famous marine environment. Among its attractions
are a first-rate hotel infrastructure, boat trips, diving (including night dives),
gastronomy and historical sites.
Its importance and fame as a destination for lovers of marine fauna have only grown
over the years, being a preferred destination even for all the most demanding
professionals related to marine fauna.
The warm and crystalline waters of Aqaba, with temperatures ranging between 22
and 28 degrees, are the ideal environment to enjoy scuba diving, thanks to the
natural colours of this environment. Coral reefs, generally located less than 100
meters offshore, are rich in tropical fish.
The area stands out for the large number of dive sites along the entire coast, located
a few meters from the shore since the bottom of the Gulf of Aqaba is an underwater
gorge that falls into the depths in a few meters.
In Aqaba, it is also possible to go on night diving excursions where you can admire
the sea creatures that take advantage of those hours to show themselves.
For those visitors who do not have due experience in the field of diving, Aqaba has
several diving centres. They all offer equipment to practice this sport in optimal
conditions, professional instructors and transfer by boat to various places of great
marine wealth. In addition, there are many more activities and water sports available,
as well as an interesting and important marine park.
Another interesting leisure alternative for the visitor in Aqaba is to take a ride on the
typical glass-bottomed boats. It is a good opportunity to see the city from the sea and
observe the coral reefs and animals that populate the seabed of the Red Sea.
You can also enjoy its rich commercial life in Aqaba. Most of the bazaars and shops
are located on the main street of the city where local merchants will treat you to tea
and offer you Jordanian products. Gastronomy is another attraction, closely linked to
the fact that it is an area rich in fishing.
One of the main historical sites of Aqaba is the Mamluk Fort which was originally a
Crusader castle rebuilt by the Mamluks in the 16th century. Square in shape and
flanked by semicircular towers, it is marked with various inscriptions from the last
period of the Islamic dynasty.
