72 Hours in Aqaba

Overview of Aqaba 

Aqaba is a charming coastal city located in southern Jordan, on the northeastern tip of the Red Sea. 

Known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and proximity to some of Jordan’s most iconic sites, 

Aqaba is a perfect getaway for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax by the sea. 

The city offers a unique blend of historical intrigue, underwater beauty, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Aqaba City

Morning: Arrival & Check-In (9:00 AM - 10:00 AM)

Depending on your arrival time, check into your hotel. 

Aqaba has a range of accommodations, from luxurious seaside resorts to budget-friendly options.

Recommended hotels:

Luxury: Kempinski Hotel Aqaba, Intercontinental Aqaba Resort.

Mid-range: Marina Plaza Tala Bay.

Budget: Darna Village Beach Hotel.

Mid-Morning: Aqaba Fort & Archaeological Museum (10:30 AM - 12:00 PM)

Start your trip with a visit to Aqaba Fort (Mamluk Castle), a 16th-century fortress. 

Walk through its ancient walls and learn about the pivotal battles fought here.

Head to the nearby Aqaba Archaeological Museum to explore exhibits of artifacts from the Bronze Age through to the Islamic period.

Lunch: Local Cuisine (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM)

Have a traditional Jordanian lunch at Al-Shami or Ali Baba Restaurant, where you can try Mansaf, Zarb, or fresh seafood.

Afternoon: Red Sea Snorkeling & Diving (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Aqaba is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life. 

Book a snorkeling or diving trip to one of the nearby spots like the Japanese Garden or the Cedar Pride Shipwreck, a sunken Lebanese freighter that has become a popular dive site.

Tip: Beginners can snorkel, while certified divers can go for a full dive.

Evening: Sunset at South Beach (5:30 PM - 6:30 PM)

Relax at South Beach and watch the sunset over the Red Sea. 

The views of the mountains changing color as the sun sets are breathtaking.

Dinner: Beachfront Dining (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

Have dinner by the sea at Suzana Restaurant or Floka Seafood with fresh catch from the Red Sea and a variety of Mediterranean dishes.

Day 2: Day Trip to Wadi Rum

Morning: Departure to Wadi Rum (7:00 AM - 8:30 AM)

After breakfast, set off for Wadi Rum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about an hour and a half from Aqaba. 

Known as the “Valley of the Moon,” this desert landscape is famous for its towering rock formations and expansive red dunes.

Mid-Morning: 4x4 Jeep Safari (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Embark on a 4x4 Jeep Safari through the desert. 

Highlights include:

The Seven Pillars of Wisdom rock formation.

Khazali Canyon with its ancient petroglyphs.

Lawrence’s Spring, where T.E. Lawrence, the famed “Lawrence of Arabia,” is said to have visited.

Lunch: Bedouin Camp (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM)

Enjoy a traditional Bedouin lunch at a desert camp, where you’ll be treated to Zarb (a meal cooked in an underground oven) and experience authentic Bedouin hospitality.

Afternoon: Camel Trekking & Sandboarding (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM)

After lunch, take a camel trek through the sand dunes, or for the more adventurous, try sandboarding down the high dunes.

Return to Aqaba (4:00 PM - 5:30 PM)

Evening: Relax and Dinner (6:30 PM - 9:00 PM)

After a full day of adventure, unwind with a casual dinner at Rakwet Kanaan, where you can enjoy traditional Jordanian dishes with a laid-back vibe.

Day 3: Beaches, Aqaba Marine Park & City Souqs

Morning: Tala Bay Beach & Water Sports (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Spend your morning relaxing at Tala Bay, a private beach resort with pristine sands and calm waters. 

You can lounge by the beach or engage in activities like jet skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, or parasailing.

Lunch: Beachfront Dining at Tala Bay (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM)

Have a leisurely lunch at one of Tala Bay’s beach clubs. 

Try the seafood platters at C4 Beach Club.

Afternoon: Aqaba Marine Park (2:30 PM - 4:00 PM)

Visit the Aqaba Marine Park for a last snorkeling or glass-bottom boat ride, where you can see coral reefs teeming with marine life. 

If you’re more interested in a family-friendly activity, check out the Ayla Oasis Marina for more relaxed water-based experiences.

Late Afternoon: Shopping in the Souqs (4:30 PM - 6:00 PM)

Wander through the local souqs (markets) in Aqaba’s old town. 

Look for:

Handicrafts, such as pottery, rugs, and glasswork.

Spices, especially sumac, cardamom, and Za’atar.

Local sweets like baklava and halva.

Evening: Final Dinner in Aqaba (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

End your trip with a dinner at Buffalo Wings & Rings Aqaba for an international twist or Syrian Palace for more traditional cuisine.

Optional Night Activity: Stargazing (9:30 PM - 11:00 PM)

Book a short stargazing experience in the desert outside of the city. 

The clear skies of Aqaba provide an incredible view of the stars, especially if you missed stargazing in Wadi Rum.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather. 

Summers can be hot, but the sea breeze cools things down.

Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD). 

It’s helpful to carry some cash, especially when visiting markets or small vendors.

Language: While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

Unique Souvenir: Try to find the local Aqaba Coral jewelry made from responsibly sourced Red Sea coral or Bedouin crafts.

Local Etiquette: Jordan is a conservative country, so dress modestly when not on the beach or in resorts.

This 72-hour itinerary balances historical exploration, underwater adventure, desert escapades, and relaxation—giving you a complete experience of Aqaba’s many facets.