Ma'in Hot Springs★★
Ma'in Hot Springs — Hot Springs in the Desert
The hot springs of Ma'in (Hammamat Ma'in) are located in a dramatic gorge 264 meters below sea level, about 30 km southwest of Madaba. Natural hot waterfalls (up to 63°C at the source, a pleasant 36–40°C in the pools) cascade over basalt rocks into terraced pools — a natural spectacle and wellness experience in one.
The mineral springs are rich in sulfur, calcium, and magnesium and have been valued for their healing properties for centuries. Even King Herod the Great (yes, the one from the Bible) is said to have bathed here.
Visiting Options
- Public Baths: 15 JOD entrance fee. Natural pools and waterfalls, basic facilities. Very crowded with Jordanian families on weekends (Fri/Sat) — much quieter during the week.
- Ma'in Hot Springs Resort & Spa: The 5-star hotel is located directly at the springs. Hotel guests have exclusive access to private pools and waterfalls. From 120 JOD/night. Day pass (without overnight stay): about 50 JOD with lunch.
Getting There
The road from Madaba down to Ma'in is one of the most spectacular roads in Jordan: It winds through a barren desert landscape in tight switchbacks down into the gorge. 30 minutes from Madaba, but every curve offers a new panorama.
💡 Tipp
Combine Ma'in Hot Springs with Madaba and Mount Nebo for a perfect day trip from Amman: Morning in Madaba and Mount Nebo, midday down to the hot springs, afternoon on to the Dead Sea. A fantastic route with a huge elevation difference (800 m above sea level → 430 m below sea level).
