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Belqa Plateau
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plateau
The Belqa Plateau is a central highland region in Jordan, historically and geographically encompassing the area between the Jordan Valley to the west and the desert to the east. With elevations ranging from 700 to 1,100 meters, it enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate with sufficient rainfall, making it one of the most fertile parts of the country. The city of As-Salt, once the region's primary administrative hub under Ottoman rule, is famous for its distinct yellow limestone architecture and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021. Jordan's capital, Amman, is also situated on the edge of this plateau, utilizing its strategic topography of seven hills. Agriculturally, the plateau is vital for the cultivation of olives, grapes, and various grains. Its rugged terrain, dotted with numerous springs and valleys, has encouraged human settlement for millennia. Today, the Belqa Plateau serves as a dynamic center for Jordan's economy, education, and culture, linking the country's historic past with its modern development.
- Location: Jordan
- Top sights: Khirbet Gal'ad · Khirbat Zayy · Al Sahn
- Nearby: Fuheis (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 13 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 28 | 30 | 30 | 28 | 24 | 18 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 63 | 58 | 32 | 15 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 8 | 29 | 52 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The plateau is largely accessible via the main highway networks connecting the central regions of Jordan, often approached from the capital city of Amman. Local rural roads branch out into the agricultural areas, making it relatively straightforward to reach by private vehicle.
Best season
Spring and autumn are typically the most pleasant times to visit, taking advantage of the temperate climate and the blooming agricultural landscape. Summers can be quite warm, though generally milder than the lower desert regions, while winters may bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain.
Terrain & paths
The terrain consists mostly of gently rolling plains and fertile farmlands, providing a relatively flat and easily traversable environment. Away from the paved roads, visitors will encounter dirt tracks and agricultural paths that require basic walking mobility.
What to bring
Standard outdoor clothing suitable for mild to warm weather is recommended, along with sturdy walking shoes for exploring unpaved rural tracks. Sun protection, including hats and sunscreen, is essential, and carrying sufficient drinking water is advised during the warmer months.
Parking
Parking is generally straightforward in the towns and villages scattered across the plateau, usually offering free spaces near local shops or community centers. When stopping along rural roads, ensure your vehicle is pulled safely off the main carriageway to avoid obstructing agricultural traffic.
Safety
The region is typically very safe for travelers, though visitors should remain mindful of active farming machinery when walking near cultivated fields. As with any rural area, it is wise to be aware of local stray animals and to respect the privacy of private farming properties.
Time needed
A visit can range from a brief drive-through taking a couple of hours to a half-day excursion focused on exploring the local rural communities. Photography enthusiasts or those interested in agriculture might spend longer appreciating the landscapes and temperate climate of the region.
Geography
Facts
- The city of As-Salt was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021
- The plateau's elevation ranges from 700 to 1,100 meters
- Annual rainfall on the plateau can reach up to 600 mm
- Amman, the capital city, is located on the edge of the plateau
- The region was a major administrative center during the Ottoman era
- The area is well-known for its high-quality olive oil production
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Belqa Plateau (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Belqa Plateau?
A fertile region near Amman that is used for agriculture.
What can you experience here?
Rural life, traditional farms, and beautiful views over the landscape.
Is it good for day trips?
Yes, it is easily reachable from the capital and very quiet.
What is there to see historically?
There are small, old villages and traces of ancient settlements.
When is the best time for a visit?
Especially in spring when everything is blooming and green.
Belqa Plateau: where is it located?
Belqa Plateau is located in Jordan.
Belqa Plateau: what is there to see?
Highlights include Khirbet Gal'ad, Khirbat Zayy, Al Sahn.
Belqa Plateau: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Belqa Plateau: why is it worth visiting?
The Belqa Plateau is a central highland region in Jordan, historically and geographically encompassing the area between the Jordan Valley to the west and the desert to the east.
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Nearby cities
Ain Basha
Ain Basha is located on the edge of the capital on fertile land.
As-Salt
As-Salt was once the most important settlement in Jordan.
Fuheis
Fuheis is a picturesque town northwest of Amman, inhabited almost exclusively by Jordanian Christians.
Mahis
Mahis is situated on the hills above the Jordan Valley.
Amman
Amman is the capital of Jordan, spreading across multiple hills.
Kufranja
Kufranja is one of the green pearls of the Ajloun Mountains.
Madaba
Madaba is world-famous for its Byzantine mosaics.
Sahab
Sahab is located southeast of the capital and serves as a major logistics hub.
Al-Mashareq
Al-Mashareq is a predominantly agricultural settlement in northern Jordan.
History & landmarks
Qasr al-Abd
A Hellenistic palace near Iraq al-Amir, built from huge stone blocks.
King Abdullah I Mosque
A distinctive landmark of Amman, known for its magnificent blue mosaic dome.
Arch of Hadrian
This massive triumphal arch was erected in honor of the visit of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 129 AD at the southern entrance of Jerash.
Monastery of Saint Gerasimus
The Monastery of Deir Hajla near Jericho is a desert oasis dedicated to Saint Gerasimus.
Nature
Dead Sea Coast
The lowest coastline on Earth, lined with sparkling salt crystals and mineral-rich mud beaches.
Jordan River
This historically and religiously significant river forms the natural border between Jordan and the Palestinian territories.
King Talal Dam
The largest reservoir in the hills of Jerash plays an important role in the irrigation of the Jordan Valley.
Jordan River
The Jordan River is a historically and religiously significant river that flows through the Jordan Valley and empties into the Dead Sea.
Zarqa River
An important river system in northern Jordan that flows through steep valleys and feeds the King Talal Dam.
More places
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An important valley connecting the city of Salt to the Jordan Valley, intensively used for agriculture.
Jordan Valley Citrus Farms
The Jordan Valley is the country's agricultural heartland where citrus fruits thrive exceptionally well.
Royal Botanic Garden
The Royal Botanic Garden of Jordan protects native flora while offering stunning views of the King Talal Dam.
Jordan Rift Valley
This significant geological depression is part of the Great Rift Valley and is very fertile.
Jordan Valley Date Palm Plantations
Jordan is globally renowned for its premium Medjool dates.
Al-Maghtas
The historical baptismal site on the Jordan River, widely recognized as the authentic location where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.
Children's Museum Jordan
An interactive museum that introduces children to science, technology, and art in a playful manner.
Wadi as-Sir
A green and water-rich valley on the outskirts of Amman, surrounded by wooded hills.