Main

Main (also known as Ma'in) is a small town in the Mādabā Governorate of central Jordan, best known for its proximity to the Hammamat Ma'in hot springs and waterfalls, one of Jordan's most popular natural attractions. The town lies in the dramatic landscape between the central plateau and the Dead Sea depression, approximately 30 km southwest of Madaba.

The area is characterised by steep wadis (valleys), hot mineral springs, and cascading waterfalls heated by geothermal activity beneath the Jordan Rift Valley. Water temperatures at some springs reach 60°C or higher. The lower elevations near the Dead Sea experience extremely hot temperatures in summer, while the higher areas are more temperate.

Main is a quiet settlement that serves primarily as a gateway to the hot springs. The Hammamat Ma'in resort has developed the area's natural thermal waters into a spa destination attracting both locals and international visitors.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), approximately 50 km northeast. Travel via Madaba and then southwest to Main/Ma'in.

By Train

By Car / Road

Main is accessible via the road from Madaba heading southwest towards the Dead Sea. The drive from Madaba takes approximately 30–40 minutes. The road descends through dramatic wadis. A private vehicle or taxi is recommended. From Amman, the total distance is approximately 60 km.

The area is spread along the wadis. A vehicle is needed to move between the town, the hot springs, and the resort.

• Hammamat Ma'in Hot Springs — A remarkable series of natural hot springs and waterfalls, some channelled into pools and baths. The main waterfall cascades down a cliff face into a pool below. Water is heated geothermally and is rich in minerals. ☏ +962 5 3245500. The spa resort offers day access to its pools and facilities.

• Wadi Ma'in — The dramatic valley leading down towards the Dead Sea, with hot springs, waterfalls, and lush vegetation contrasting with the arid surroundings.

• Soak in the hot springs — The mineral-rich thermal waters are the main attraction. The spa resort offers multiple pools at different temperatures.

• Hiking in the wadis — The steep valleys around Main offer dramatic scenery, though the terrain is challenging and water is essential.

• Spa treatments — The Hammamat Ma'in resort offers a range of spa treatments using the thermal waters.

The Hammamat Ma'in resort has restaurants serving Jordanian and international cuisine. Local eateries in town serve basic Jordanian fare.

The resort serves a range of drinks including alcohol for hotel guests. Water is essential in this hot environment — always carry a bottle.

• Upscale: Ma'in Hot Springs Resort Hotel — A full-service spa resort with thermal pools, set in the dramatic wadi landscape. Rooms from 100+ JD.
• Budget: Stay in Madaba (30 km northeast) where options range from 5 JD (dorms) to 55 JD (mid-range hotels).

Limited shopping is available; the resort gift shop stocks souvenirs. Bring additional supplies from Madaba.

• Madaba — The "City of Mosaics", 30 km northeast.
• Mukawir (Machaerus) — The biblical fortress of Herod, further southwest.
• Mount Nebo — Biblical viewpoint overlooking the Holy Land, near Madaba.
• Dead Sea — The lowest point on Earth, accessible from the road below.