Jordan Valley Travel Guide

Geography

The Jordan Valley, nestled among the rocky splendor of the Middle East, a geographical wonder, which stretches from the glittering waters of the Dead Sea to the green plains of the northern Jordan Rift Valley, is a tribute to nature’s marvels and a living testament to the resilience of humanity and the enduring spirit of a land that has seen empires rise and fall.

History

For thousands of years, the Jordan Valley has been a crossroads of cultures and civilizations. Its strategic location, surrounded by mountains and cradled by the rich Jordan River, has made it a highly sought-after area throughout centuries. This region has witnessed the rise and fall of power and the movement of ideas, from prehistoric cultures to biblical narratives.

The Jordan Valley has had human occupancy from prehistoric times, with archaeological findings offering information on the early agricultural societies that thrived here. However, it was during the Bronze Age that the region saw the rise of major city-states such as Jericho and Ai, which prospered as trading and cultural hubs.

Throughout the centuries, the Jordan Valley has been a stage for conquest and conflict. It has been ruled by various civilizations, including the Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. Each empire left its mark, constructing magnificent cities, fortresses, and irrigation systems that shaped the landscape.

The modern history of the Jordan Valley saw it coming under the control of the Ottoman Empire and later witnessing the struggles of Arab nationalism. Today, the Jordan Valley remains an essential part of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, contributing to the country’s cultural and economic tapestry.

The Jordan Valley is frequently mentioned in biblical accounts, and it is believed that towns of Sodom and Gomorrah were originally located in this region.
Under Moses’ leadership, the Israelites crossed the Jordan River through Jordan Valley to reach the Promised Land. Since Jesus was baptized in this valley by John the Baptist, the region’s significance continued in the New Testament.

The fascinating Dead Sea, located west of the Jordan River, is Jordan’s crown gem. The Dead Sea is a natural beauty unlike any other, with its bizarre blue waters and sparkling white salt crystals adorning its shoreline. It is a refuge of rest and renewal, renowned for its therapeutic powers and the peculiar buoyancy it provides swimmers.

As you go deeper into the Jordan Valley, you will come across a tapestry of scenery that will captivate you. Every step reveals a fresh perspective that shows the beautiful combination of nature’s elements, from the fertile plains and verdant farmlands that cover the valley bottom to the towering cliffs and canyons that punctuate the horizon.

The Jordan Valley also has a number of fascinating geological structures. The stunning canyons created by millennia of erosion remain as silent witnesses to time’s passage. Majestic granite formations rise like sentinels, protecting the land’s secrets. The Jordan Valley is a playground for adventure seekers and nature aficionados alike, from the majestic cliffs of Wadi Mujib to the jagged landscapes of Wadi Rum.

A variety of plant and animal species find refuge in this diverse and breathtaking landscape. The Jordan Valley is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a diverse ecology that flourishes despite dry circumstances. The valley is a tribute to nature’s determination, from vivid wildflowers that paint the landscape with bursts of color to elusive fauna that roams the woods.

Via Jordan Travel and Tours recognizes that each tourist is unique, and we endeavor to offer customized trips that appeal to your specific tastes. Our skilled guides will accompany you on this incredible adventure, sharing their extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for the area, ensuring that every minute is filled with wonder and discovery.