Aqaba: the hidden jewel of the Red Sea

Guest blog

What’s this all about?

When most people say they’re going on a Red Sea Holiday you automatically think of Egypt and Sharm El Sheik - a bustling touristic city with large hotel resorts, shopping malls and attractions open until the early hours of the morning.

However if you’re looking for something slightly more relaxed, Above & Below Adventures explain why Aqaba in Jordan is the ideal destination for you.

Under the sea in AqabaJordan's coast line is only 20 Km long, but what it lacks in quantity it certainly makes up for in quality! 7 km of this coastline is dedicated to the Aqaba Marine Park Reserve, a protected area for the incredible coral reef and marine life the Red Sea is famous for – a must visit for scuba divers, snorkelers and nature lovers.

What else is there on offer?For diving we highly recommend SeaStar Diving Center!

You can also jump on a boat for a day trip or just a relaxing lunch cruise down the coast. For non-divers there are also glass bottom boats and 'submarine vision' boats that allow you to discover the underwater world without getting wet.

Ahoy there shipwreck!As well as the coral reefs, Aqaba also boasts several ship wrecks:

Cedar Pride: This Lebanese cargo ship was purchased by King Abdullah II (an avid scuba diver himself!) and sunk 80m off the shore at a max depth of 26m - making it an ideal wreck for any level of diver.

The Tank: This M42 anti-aircraft military vehicle is not sight you’re expecting to see underwater. Another present for tourists from King Abdullah II, this one sits at only 6m depth so even non-divers can see it when snorkelling from the surface.

Taiyong and Al Shorouk: Not wrecks for everyone as they lie at 56m and 60m respectively – but definitely worth a visit for those qualified to do so!

Not a diver?For a day of relaxation, why not visit one of the many spas or a Turkish Bath House. But if you’re looking for something action packed, rent ATVs and take off along the sand trails to the mountains behind the city.

Get involved with the local culture by signing up for a cooking class or a craft class to make your own souvenir to take home with you.

Don’t forget the city of Aqaba itself – it’s full of history and culture, souks (traditional markets), a museum, a Mumluk fort, ancient ruins, mosques, churches and one of the world’s highest flag poles!

There are many restaurants serving a wide range of different foods from traditional Jordanian dishes. Not many of the restaurants will serve alcohol but there are a few bars where you can grab a drink afterwards.

Want to find out more?Although Aqaba is only a small city and very quiet on the grand scale of tourist destinations there are still plenty of things to do and see, whether they are above or below the water!

Plus it is a great base to stay if you wish to explore more of Jordan; from Aqaba you can take day tours to the desert of Wadi Rum, The Ancient City of Petra or the Dead Sea.

All these day tours and more can be booked through Above and Below Adventures.

What now? Want to read the full travel guide?

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Aqaba: the hidden jewel of the Red Sea