Whether you’re shooting with a professional DSLR or just your smartphone, Jordan offers an endless canvas of textures, colors, light, and landscapes. From the rose-red stones of Petra to the golden silence of Wadi Rum, Jordan is more than just a destination—it’s a visual story waiting to be captured.
This guide is crafted for photography lovers who want to make every shot count. Let’s explore the best places in Jordan to elevate your photography game.
1. Petra – The Rose-Red City
Best for: Architectural photography, low-light, textures, symmetry
Petra isn’t just Jordan’s most iconic site—it’s a dreamland for photographers. The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) is the star, especially in the early morning light when the sun brushes its detailed façade with warm gold. But wander beyond the main path—explore the Monastery, the Royal Tombs, and the High Place of Sacrifice. You’ll find dramatic angles, weathered stone, and atmospheric light everywhere.
Pro Tip: Arrive at the entrance right at opening time (6:00 AM) to capture Petra with soft light and minimal crowds.
2. Wadi Rum – The Valley of the Moon
Best for: Landscape photography, astrophotography, wide-angle shots
With its rust-colored sand dunes, towering rock formations, and vast open sky, Wadi Rum is a cinematic dream. The shifting colors from sunrise to sunset offer a wide palette, and at night, the desert turns into one of the best stargazing spots in the world. Bring a tripod—you’ll want those long exposures of the Milky Way.
Pro Tip: Ask your Bedouin guide to take you to lesser-known spots like Burdah Arch or Um Fruth Bridge for stunning compositions.
3. The Dead Sea – Otherworldly Minimalism
Best for: Minimalist photography, reflections, textures
Floating at the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea offers surreal photography opportunities. Salt formations, still turquoise waters, and dramatic desert mountains in the distance create an otherworldly vibe. Capture reflections during sunrise or sunset for a magical mood.
Pro Tip: Look for hidden salt pools along the shore, especially near Suweimeh. Drones work well here (check local regulations).
4. Jerash – Roman Grandeur Preserved
Best for: Historical ruins, symmetry, golden hour
Often overshadowed by Petra, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy. Colonnaded streets, towering arches, and grand amphitheaters provide endless symmetry and patterns to work with. The afternoon light enhances the textures of the ancient stones beautifully.
Pro Tip: Use leading lines in the colonnades to add depth to your compositions.
5. Dana Biosphere Reserve – Nature Unfiltered
Best for: Nature, wildlife, moody landscapes
A paradise for hikers and nature photographers, Dana offers rugged cliffs, deep canyons, and untouched wilderness. You’ll find old villages, herds of goats, and maybe even an ibex if you’re lucky. The changing light over the valleys is perfect for landscape shots.
Pro Tip: Capture golden hour over Wadi Dana for breathtaking depth and contrast.
6. Amman – Urban Life Meets Tradition
Best for: Street photography, culture, urban textures
Amman might seem chaotic at first glance, but it’s a treasure trove for street photographers. From the rainbow-colored stairs of Jabal Amman to the graffiti of Jabal Al-Weibdeh, every alley tells a story. Don’t miss the Citadel for panoramic city views.
Pro Tip: Capture everyday life in downtown markets (Al-Balad), but always ask before photographing people—respect matters.
7. Aqaba – Underwater and Coastal Vibes
Best for: Underwater photography, coastal sunsets, marine life
Located on the Red Sea, Aqaba offers vibrant coral reefs and sunken military wrecks just meters from the shore. It’s perfect for underwater photography. If you stay above water, the sunsets over the Gulf are intense and dreamy.
Pro Tip: Bring or rent a waterproof camera setup—visibility underwater is usually great, especially in the morning.
8. Mount Nebo – Sacred Panoramas
Best for: Panoramic views, spiritual landscapes, mosaics
Believed to be the site where Moses viewed the Promised Land, Mount Nebo offers sweeping views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and on clear days, Jerusalem. The spot is both scenic and spiritual, with ancient mosaics in the church nearby.
Pro Tip: Visit late afternoon for golden light across the valley, especially in winter.
Final Tips for Photographers in Jordan:
-
Lighting is everything: Aim for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid harsh sunlight.
-
Respect cultural norms: Avoid photographing people, especially women, without permission.
-
Travel light but smart: A good zoom lens and a lightweight tripod will serve you well.
-
Use the Jordan Pass: It gives you access to many major sites and saves money on entrance fees.
In Summary:
Jordan is not just a destination—it’s a living photo essay. From its ancient ruins to its natural wonders, every corner holds a frame-worthy moment. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a pro, Jordan will inspire you to see the world through a richer, more creative lens.
Ready to capture Jordan through your lens?
You can book your customized photography-friendly tour with Zaman Tours
a trusted local company that knows how to take you beyond the postcard shots and into the heart of the country.
