best way to travel jordan

7-Day Jordan Itinerary: How To Spend 1 Week In Jordan

Posted on Last updated: May 6, 2020

If you’re looking for stunning desert landscapes, spectacular archaeological sites, good food and friendly locals, Jordan needs to feature on your travel bucket list.

Jordan had been on my list for quite sometime and being able to recently spend 7 days in Jordan was a dream come true for me.

In this post I’ve put together my Jordan itinerary with information on what to see, where to stay, travelling times between destinations and anything else you might need to know for your own Jordan 7-day itinerary.

So read on and start planning your Jordan itinerary!

• 1.1 When is the best time to visit Jordan?
• 1.2 Getting around Jordan
• 1.3 Cuisine in Jordan
• 1.4 Why you need the Jordan Pass
• 1.5 What to pack
• 2.1 Day 1: Fly into Amman
• 2.2 Day 2: Jerash & Dead Sea
• 2.3 Day 3: Kerak & Little Petra
• 2.4 Day 4: Petra
• 2.5 Day 5: Wadi Rum
• 2.6 Day 6: Aqaba
• 2.7 Day 7: Return to Amman & fly out

Admiring the Treasury of Petra, Jordan

Jordan itinerary planning: Essential things to know

Before jumping straight into my day-by-day Jordan itinerary I want to cover a few of the biggest questions I had before my Jordan trip, which I think you will find useful in planning your own time in Jordan.

When is the best time to visit Jordan?

Starting with the basics, when should you actually visit Jordan? The high season in Jordan is in spring, from March to May, when the temperatures are moderate and the days start getting longer.

I was there in December, which isn’t recommended since it can rain quite often and it gets very cold in the evenings, but I loved it since there weren’t as many people around, especially in the main tourist attractions like Petra.

I wouldn’t recommend visiting in summer since the temperatures can go up to 40°C in Aqaba and the Dead Sea.

Admiring the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan

Getting around Jordan

There are buses and coaches that travel around the country, however they are not very regular and only touch the big cities. The best way to get around Jordan is to rent a car and drive yourself.

If you’re not a comfortable driver you can also hire a driver with the car, this will obviously be more expensive but you will still have the freedom of going where you want and spending how long you want at each location.

You can also do an organised tour and sit back, relax, and have someone else take you around Jordan.

The colonnade of Jerash in Jordan

Cuisine in Jordan

The cuisine in Jordan is similar to that in other countries in the Middle East, with lots of rice based main dishes and traditional “mezzes” as starters.

Some of the most famous dishes are hummus, a puree of chickpeas, and falafel, deep fried chickpea balls.

One thing to note about eating out in Jordan is that Jordan is a Muslim country, meaning a lot of places don’t serve alcohol.

You will find alcohol in big five star hotels or liquor stores, but the average restaurant most likely won’t serve alcohol.

Little Petra in Jordan

Why you need the Jordan Pass

If you’re planning on spending more than 3 nights in Jordan I highly recommend you get the Jordan Pass . The Jordan Pass is an initiative of the Jordanian tourism authority to make it easier for tourists to travel around the country.

There are different packages, the most basic one costs 70 JOD (99 USD) and includes your tourist visa for Jordan, 1-day entry to Petra and entry to a lot of other attractions in Jordan.

If you calculate that just the tourist visa would be 40 JOD and 1-day entry to Petra would be 50 JOD, you’ve already saved money!

Camels in the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan

What to pack

What you should bring to Jordan massively depends on the time of year you’re visiting, however there are some essentials that you will need regardless of when you’re in Jordan.

Comfortable walking shoes : If you’re planning on following this Jordan itinerary (even if you’re not) you will probably find yourself walking a lot every day, make sure you’re comfortable doing so!

You don’t necessarily need trekking shoes, I only had a pair of trainers, just make sure to bring shoes you know you can walk in for long periods of time.  

The amphitheatre of Jerash in Jordan

Power bank : Yes I may be a little attached to my phone but especially when I’m travelling to a new country I like to make sure it’s always charged, you don’t want to be lost somewhere you don’t know without Google Maps handy!

Tank tops , t-shirts and long sleeved shirts : Dress in layers! More so than any other destination I found that the layer approach was necessary in Jordan.

The days started off very chilly, became fairly hot as the sun climbed and then it got cold again at night. If you wear a couple different layers you can strip and then dress up again as the day goes on.

Desert views in the Wadi Rum, Jordan

Swimsuit : Whether it’s in the Dead Sea or in the Red Sea you will most likely go for a swim in Jordan, don’t forget your swimsuit!

Water bottle : Save money and the planet by bringing your own reusable water bottle to refill, instead of buying new plastic ones every time!

The forum of the archaeological site of Jerash and the new city of Jerash in Jordan

7 days in Jordan itinerary

Day 1: fly into amman.

What better place to start your Jordan trip than in the capital city of Jordan? We flew into Amman early in the morning, which gave us a full day in the city. Even if you have the Jordan Pass it can take a while to get through passport control.

Add to that waiting for your luggage, changing money and organising a transfer into the city centre and it can be a while before you’re ready to hit the city.

There are lots of beautiful places to visit in Amman .

Depending on what time you land you can start your Jordan trip with a visit to the Roman Amphitheatre (just make sure to check the time, as this closes at 4PM in winter and 6PM in summer) or walking around the souks of Amman.

Entry at the Roman Amphitheatre is included in the Jordan Pass. You can end your first day in Jordan with a local Jordanian dinner at one of the trendy restaurants in Rainbow Street; my personal favourite was Sofra Restaurant .

We spent our first night in Jordan at the Shams Alweibdeh Hotel Apartments , a 20 minute walk from the centre of Amman.

Check out the latest prices and availability at Shams Alweidbeh Hotel Apartments

View over Amman and the Roman theatre from the citadel of Amman

Day 2: Jerash & Dead Sea

As soon as you wake up on day 2 it’s time to hit the road. You only have one week in Jordan and lots to see! Pick up your rental car and get ready for a 45-minute drive, enroute to Jerash.

Jerash is a city 52km north of Amman, where a huge Roman archaeological site can be found. Entry at Jerash is included in the Jordan Pass.

I was surprised to find that the archaeological site of Jerash is located in the middle of the modern city of Jerash (it can be confusing, I know).

On Google Maps search for “ Jerash Visitor Car Parking ”, not “Jerash Visitor Centre”, as this is the correct entrance and there is also plenty of space to park.

One of the theatres in Jerash, Jordan

Jerash archaeological site in Jordan

The nymphaeum in Jerash, Jordan

Jerash was a prosperous city until the mid-eighth century when a huge earthquake destroyed large parts of it. In the following centuries it was ruined by subsequent earthquakes and due to being the location of war efforts.

They started excavations on the ancient city in 1925 and are gradually bringing new parts of it to light. Today only 5% of the ancient city is actually above ground and visible.

The main areas of ancient Jerash that you should visit include the Amphipheatre, the temple of Zeus, the temple of Artemis, Hadrian’s Arch and the Forum.

The site is fairly big and it will take you at least 2 hours to visit it all. When you arrive at the entry local guides will come up to you offering to show you the site, the guide isn’t compulsory so it’s up to you whether you want one or not.

If you do get a guide just make sure to haggle on the price (like with everything else in Jordan)!

View over the Forum of Jerash in Jordan

The colonnade in Jerash, Jordan

Once you’re done visiting Jerash grab a quick wrap or sandwich to eat in the car since it’s time to hit the road again!

The stretch of the drive is much longer so make sure you have snacks and water with you, as there aren’t many shops along the road.

There are 88km from Jerash to the Dead Sea and it will take you at least 1 hour and 45 minutes to drive there, probably more if like us you get out at the wrong exit in a roundabout and get stuck in traffic.

The temple of Zeus in Jerash, Jordan

The temple of Artemis in Jerash, Jordan

The columns of the Jerash archaeological site in Jordan

The Dead Sea is a salt lake that is 430m below sea level, the lowest point on dry land on Earth. It has a salinity of 34.2%, which is 9.6 times saltier than the ocean and the 7 th saltiest lake in the world.

The high salinity prevents any plants and fish from living in it, hence the name Dead Sea . The salinity also makes it extremely easy to float, which turned it into a popular tourist attraction.

If you don’t take a photo floating in the Dead Sea with a book in hand, have you even really been there?

Floating in the Dead Sea, Jordan

You can try driving along the coast of the Dead Sea and just going for a dip anywhere you find, but I would highly recommend going to an equipped beach.

As soon as you step out of the Dead Sea the salt will dry off and get really itchy on your skin, you’ll really appreciate having a fresh water shower readily available.

Also if you’re visiting Jordan in autumn or winter, when the temperatures aren’t that high, it’s nice to have hot showers there. One of the cheapest beaches you can go to is Amman Beach, for 20 JOD per person.

What you get is very basic and not really worth the price in my opinion, but the alternative of having extremely dry and salty skin until you reach the closest shower made it worth it for me.

After floating around in the Dead Sea we waited for the sunset and then drove to Madaba, where we spent the night at the Delilah Hotel .

Check out the latest prices and availability at Delilah Hotel

Sunset over the Dead Sea in Jordan

Day 3: Kerak & Little Petra

You have one of the longest drives of the trip ahead of you today; a whole 213km from Madaba to Wadi Musa, approximately 3 hours of driving. If you want to break up the drive you can do a stop at Kerak Castle.

Kerak Castle is one of the largest crusader castles in the Middle East and it sits on top of a hill with epic views of the surrounding landscape.

The castle is very well preserved and you can explore the various rooms, tunnels and all the internal and external areas of the castle.

Access to Kerak Castle is included in the Jordan Pass. There are some local restaurants just outside Kerak Castle where you can grab lunch on the go before heading on to Little Petra.

The view from Kerak Castle, Jordan

The courtyard and surrounding views of Kerak Castle, Jordan

Inside Kerak Castle, Jordan

Little Petra is located just before Wadi Musa, and it’s the perfect site to visit prior to seeing Petra. It’s lso known as Siq el-Barid and it’s a Nabataen archaeological site, with buildings carved into the walls of the canyons.

It’s a much smaller site than Petra and while the buildings are less elaborate, the natural beauty of the location is what amazed me.

We walked through to the canyon and past the buildings, to a small rocky platform that overlooked the rocks and canyons.

From here you need to climb a bit over some rocks to reach a beautiful viewpoint where you can wait for the sunset. The path isn’t well marked though so I would ask one of the local guides to take you.

We paid 5 JOD per person for the whole visit to Little Petra, prices aren’t fixed and you can haggle when you’re there.

One of the buildings of Little Petra in Jordan

Hiking to the viewpoint of Little Petra in Jordan

View from Little Petra in Jordan

Walking through the canyons of Little Petra, Jordan

Canyon views in Little Petra, Jordan

Sunset in Little Petra, Jordan

After Little Petra we went to our hotel in Wadi Musa, the Peace Way Hotel , to shower and chill a bit, we had an early dinner in town and went straight back out to see Petra by Night.

Petra by Night is a show that is on every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 20:30 to 22:30.

During Petra by Night they light 1,500 candles all along the Siq and in front of the Treasury, where they play live music, serve complimentary tea and tell stories of the place.

Entry isn’t included in the Jordan Pass and costs 17 JOD, you can ask your hotel and they’ll get you tickets.

Make sure to get there early enough so you can enjoy it without too many people, seeing the Treasury lit up by thousands of candles is magical.

Discover the latest prices and availability at the Peace Way Hotel

Petra by Night

Day 4: Petra

I hope you’re ready for the highlight of your Jordan trip. Petra is one of the most famous attractions in Jordan and rightly so.

Petra is a 60 squared kilometre archaeological site, where stunning Roman and Nabataean ruins can be found on a red rock and canyon backdrop.

The Treasury and Monastery of Petra, with their well-preserved facades built into the rock are amongst the most iconic locations in Petra.

Make sure to get to Petra early in the morning, so that you can beat the crowds. A one-day entry ticket is included in the Jordan Pass.

Some people prefer to spend longer in Petra, I personally found that one day was enough to see everything I wanted to.

In one day we walked 20km and saw the Siq, the Treasury (both from below and the viewpoints above), the Royal Tombs, the theatre, the Colonnade and the Monastery.

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and to bring water and snacks with you!

| READ MORE: 20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING PETRA |

Admiring the Monastery of Petra

The Treasury of Petra, Jordan

Day 5: Wadi Rum

After the last two days you might think it’s impossible to top the beauty of Petra, and yet you will find that the Wadi Rum desert will give Petra a run for its money.

On the fifth day you can have a bit of a lie-in to recover from all the walking, but you should still set off fairly early in the morning as you have 112km and almost 2 hours of driving ahead of you.

We did a tour of the desert with Beyond Wadi Rum Camp . We parked our cars at the Wadi Rum Village where our guides were waiting for us with open back 4×4 jeeps. We set off for a full afternoon tour of the Wadi Rum desert.

Camels in the Wadi Rum desert, Jordan

The view from the top of Lawrence’s spring in the Wadi Rum desert

Red sand dunes in the Wadi Rum desert

Exploring the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan

The Wadi Rum desert is huge, but most tours will take you to see all the same main attractions. These include; the red sand dunes, Lawrence’s spring, the Khazali canyon, the house of Lawrence, Abu Khashaba canyon and Um Frouth Arch.

You won’t easily forget the natural beauty of the canyons, arches and views you will see today. It’s easy to see why the movie The Martian was filmed here!

The viewpoints at Lawrence’s spring and house aren’t well marked so you need to do a big of climbing to reach them, but they’re well worth it!

We ended the day at viewpoint that is also a popular sunset spot, where we watched the sinking sun turn the rocks and sand around us even more red.

Um Frouth Arch in the Wadi Rum desert

Khazali canyon in the Wadi Rum desert

Desert views in the Wadi Rum

Sunset in the Wadi Rum desert

I was in Jordan in December and the sun set at 16:30 and I was a bit worried about what we would actually do for the rest of the afternoon and evening.

After the sunset they drove us to the camp, where we had dinner in the big communal tent (they cook the food in the traditional Bedouin way under the sand and will take it out just before it’s time to eat!) and danced traditional dances.

Unfortunately it started raining while we were having dinner so we were unable to see the stars, but if you’re there on a clear night sky you will see the most incredible stars.

Maybe bring some card games with you so that if the weather is bad you have something to entertain yourself with for the evening.

| READ MORE: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO WADI RUM OVERNIGHT TOURS |

Desert views from the house of Lawrence in the Wadi Rum desert

Desert views from Lawrence’s spring in the Wadi Rum desert

Day 6: Aqaba

After a pretty packed week this is the relaxing day of this Jordan itinerary. Breakfast is served fairly early at the Beyond Wadi Rum Camp, so once you’re up its time to hit the road again.

The drive from the Wadi Rum desert to Aqaba is only 70km and will take around 1 hour.

Once you get there pop by your hotel (we stayed at the Dweik Hotel ) to drop off your bags, change into a swimsuit and you’re ready for the beach and the Red Sea!

Click here to book your stay at Dweik Hotel!

The Red Sea in Jordan

Similarly to the Dead Sea, I suggest visiting an organised beach since women aren’t allowed to be in a bikini in public beaches.

We went to Berenice Beach Club, a short 15-minute drive away from Aqaba. Entry is 10 JOD each and it’s a very well equipped beach.

There is a changing room with lockers, a pool, a beach bar, sun beds with beach umbrellas, a beach volley court and snorkelling gear you can rent.

You can snorkel by the beach and will be able to see lots of coral and fish, or you can do an organised 2-hour boat trip that will take you to snorkelling spots slightly further away.

Berenice Beach Bar serves alcohol so why not sit back on your sunbed, order a mojito and wait for the sun to set on your last full day in Jordan.

Sunset in Aqaba from Berenice Beach Bar

Day 7: Return to Amman & fly out

Your Jordan trip is coming to an end, time to head back to Amman and squeeze in some final sightseeing before you fly out.

Amman is 330km away from Aqaba, approximately a 4-hour drive depending on whether you do the more direct Desert Highway or the more scenic Kings Highway.

If you set off early enough in the morning you can make it to Amman in time for lunch. After a quick wrap on the go from the souk, head over to see the Amman Citadel (entry is included in the Jordan Pass).

This is archaeological site located on top of a hill in the centre of Amman and it’s a great combination of history and epic views, the perfect way to end your time in Jordan!

After this final sight seeing in Amman it’s time to head back to the airport and fly home, where you can start planning the next trip.

The citadel in Amman, Jordan

Have you been to Jordan before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below! Visiting Petra and Jordan had been on my travel bucket list for a very long time and I was stoked to finally travel there.

For me 7 days were enough to see everything I wanted to, if you want to visit Petra more in depth or spend long relaxing by the Red Sea you can always shuffle around this itinerary or spend longer in Jordan.

I hope you find this 1-week Jordan itinerary useful in planning your own Jordan itinerary!

Enjoyed reading my 7 days in Jordan itinerary? Pin it!

Monday 30th of September 2019

Hi Greta, for Wadi Rum, do you think 4 hours is enough to see all the sights? x thanks

Hi Caitlin! Yes an afternoon should be enough to see all the main spots, that's more or less how long our tour lasted and then we went to the camp for the night. If you have the time though I would definitely stay a night in the desert, it's a really unique experience! x

Becca Talbot

Monday 20th of May 2019

I went to Jordan back in May 2017, and I had the best time! I did pretty much everything here on your list too. One thing you've not mentioned much of is the street art everywhere in Amman, which is definitely worth a look - can't wait to go back to Jordan! x

Monday 27th of May 2019

That's a good point, I saw some beautiful street art around Amman! :)

Wednesday 8th of May 2019

Did you have an opportunity to go to Wadi Mujib and where could you fit that into an itinerary like this?

Wednesday 29th of May 2019

Unfortunately I was in Jordan in December and I couldn't visit the Wadi Mujib. If I were to go back in summer I would probably swap it out with Jerash on day 2 or Kerak on day 3. Hope that helps! :)

Saturday 23rd of February 2019

Thanks for all of this great information. I am hoping to go to Jordan and Israel in May.

Monday 25th of February 2019

No problem, glad you found it useful! You're going to love Jordan, it's such a beautiful country!

Tuesday 8th of January 2019

Great post. You really captured the architecture well. This post reminded me of my trip to Israel last year, I got to visit the dead sea too. The highlight of being in that area was the food as well as that there's so much to see.

Thanks, glad you enjoyed my post! The Dead Sea really is an incredible place to visit, I loved the food there too!

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Hikers take a break amid the rushing water in Wadi Mujib, a river that flows through the Mujib Biosphere Reserve in Jordan.

7 Ways to Visit Jordan

With its desert mountains perfect for hiking, ecolodges run by Bedouin locals, and fantastically preserved reefs, Jordan has an adventure for every type of explorer.

Entering the great gorge of Wadi Mujib feels like stepping into the gaping jaws of some mythical monster. An ankle-deep stream quickly narrows, until the red-orange, wind-carved cliffs seem to swallow you up inside the belly of the beast. The smooth and flowing canyon draws you deep into the hidden earth, forcing you to gawk upward at the elaborate architecture of nature all the while you’re double-checking your step as the gushing white water grows deeper, faster, and louder.

A mile up inside the slot canyon, the din is crushing, with waterfalls that tumble down on every side, whipping you like a spin cycle, so that every step is a battle against the current. Ropes and ladders help you reach the next level, and just like a video game, each new level feels more intense.

The Mujib Biosphere Reserve borders the Dead Sea, some 1,400 feet below sea level—the lowest spot on land. In the warmest part of the year (from April to October), adventurers can brave the soaking hike up the canyon.

No doubt, Jordan is best enjoyed outdoors, among the vast wild spaces that define this desert nation. Clear and dependable skies guarantee 360 days of sunshine a year, so any day is ideal for camping, climbing, trekking, swimming, and just being in nature.

Hike and Bike the Mountains

A wooden path leads to a desert campsite in Wadi Rum, a protected area in Jordan.

Perched on the sloping edge of an immense mountain, the Rummana campsite puts you at the edge of the world, high above the rippled pink horizon of the Dana Biosphere Reserve . Watch the heavenly sunrise from your tent, sip coffee around the campfire, then head out on some exotic day hikes. This is also stellar terrain for mountain biking, with trails that run from docile to heart-stopping—if you’re up for the challenge, bikers can climb or drop a mile of pure altitude on a single track.

Stay with the Locals

Those who prefer a tad more luxury, while still surrounded by nature’s fullness, must spend a few nights at Feynan Ecolodge —a sustainable stucco outpost in the untamed heart of Dana. Dedicated to strict principles of sustainability, Feynan is solar powered by day and lit by hundreds of flickering candles at night. All visitors are guests of the local Bedouin tribe, with 80-some locals employed directly by the lodge.

In the honest custom of the desert, the Bedouin open their lives and tents to all who pass. That means the bread you are eating was hand-shaped and baked over a fire by one of the women in the village—you can help out if you want. The all-vegetarian menu is prepared by locals, who also give cooking classes. Spend a day with the shepherds, corralling their family herds out in the great red land, or lie down in the shade of the family tent, taking part in the everyday traditions of your hosts.

Gaze at the Night Sky

When evening falls, grab a spot on the roof for absolutely unreal stargazing, guided by the Bedouin and the help of a telescope. Gape at Saturn and Venus, inhale the intense constellations, and experience the night like you’ve never felt it before: warm, glowing, and dancing with stars.

It may be hard to believe, but the stars shine even brighter in Wadi Rum , the adventure epicenter of Jordan. It’s the bold gateway into the Arabian Desert, with flowing dunes, sandstone arches, and table mountains that seem to poke straight up from the flame-colored sand.

Discover Movie Magic

Goats move across the rocky landscape of Jordan's protected Petra.

Wadi Rum looks as mystical as it feels—this is the same wind-whipped desert where the real Lawrence of Arabia wandered on horseback, and where the 1962 movie of the same name was filmed. Thus began a long tradition of moviemaking in Jordan, with Wadi Rum as the exotic backdrop for other worlds. This same rusty landscape is planet Mars in The Martian and the lonely desert moon of Jedha from Star Wars: Rogue One .

By far the best way to explore the range of Wadi Rum is to join a jeep tour. Besides a camel, 4X4s are best for crossing the endless miles of sand, zipping you between each geological monolith. Casual hiking and scrambling allow pretty much anyone a chance to get some altitude and take in the splendor, while serious climbers should accept the challenge of Jabal Ramm.

At 5,689 feet high, the mountain’s iron-colored cliffs demand total focus and ample experience. Local Bedouin guides can show you the ropes (literally), or lead you to lesser known wall climbs, each with their own unique quirks. In Wadi Rum, you can never run out of interesting vertical terrain.

Hot-air balloon rides lift you even higher, above the scattered stone and ocean of sand, lit by the transcendent desert sunrise—the ultimate highlight for any visit. But Jordan is not simply desert and rock—this is a country with green forests in the north, and in the far south, exquisite coral gardens that reach up to the surface of the sea.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Dive into the Red Sea

Sunbathers and boaters enjoy the beach in Aqaba, Jordan.

The port of Aqaba has the kind of breezy warmth and laid-back spirit of most seaside towns. With clean beaches, warm water, and outstanding visibility, Jordan is a diver’s oasis. Every mile counts on this wedge of coastline, with some of the best dive sites in the Red Sea.

King Abdullah Reef is a favorite spot, adorned with beautiful pastel corals that glow a soft yellow, purple, and orange in the sun. Farther down the coast, divers will encounter rare black coral and sunken ships and tanks, crusted over with sea life. As a protected marine park, Jordan’s coastline flourishes with biodiversity, with hundreds of fish species that call this water home. Jordan is also a terrific place to get certified—the sea is clean, never crowded, and packed with marvelous sights, while the many dive shops uphold the highest standards and are well regulated.

Trek the Jordan Trail

But the greatest adventure in Jordan remains on land—the nearly 400-mile Jordan Trail runs the full length of the country, from the ruins of Umm Qais (on the northern border) all the way down to the Dead Sea, though Petra and Wadi Rum, and finally to the peaceful beach in Aqaba. Most hikers take around 40 days to complete the full through-hike, passing through 52 villages, where families often host them .

“The Jordan Trail lets you connect with locals person to person. You see the whole of our nature—countryside, desert, mountains, and forest,” says trail guide Ahmed Alomari, “and you make friends along the way.” In this lies the true adventure of Jordan, and it is why no matter how often one visits, the adventure is never finished.

Related Topics

• HISTORY AND CIVILIZATION
• SCUBA DIVING

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Perfect Jordan Itinerary and Travel Guide

By Helene Sula

Jordan, with its spectacular desert scenery, fascinating archeological sites, delectable cuisine, and fair weather, is one of the best places to explore in the Middle East .

Whether you have a week or 10 days, I've got a full itinerary and travel guide for your time in Jordan. It's one of those places you definitely need more than 3 days to explore.

I went to Jordan without expectations. I left feeling like I absolutely must come back. Incredibly generous, kind people, delicious food, and overwhelming beauty and history. Jordan is a country that will surprise and delight you. This guide will help you make the most of your visit.

Jordan Itinerary at A Glance

What to expect, taking a tour, when to visit jordan, how long to stay in jordan, jordan itinerary, day 1 – amman, day 2 – amman and jerash, day 3 – wadi rum, day 4 – petra, day 5- petra – kerak castle – wadi mujib – dead sea, so, why is it called the dead sea, top tips for the dead sea, day 6 – dead sea & religious sites, day 7 – dead sea & amman, if you have more time….

Day 1- Amman

Day 5 – Petra – Kerak Castle – Wadi Mujib – Dead Sea

Day 6 – Dead Sea & Baptism Sites

Jordan is one of the most welcoming and hospitable countries in the world. People are incredibly open and kind, always willing to talk or help you with directions or advice. The food with a variety of dishes is delicious, there are epic places to discover and the religious and historical sites are mesmerizing.

Jordan is a Muslim country but you are perfectly fine to not cover your hair as a woman. Some women do, but many don't and you'll find a variety of clothing and styles. You don't need to cover up, but it is important to dress modestly. Avoid short dresses or skirts. Dress for the weather. It can get hot during the day and cool at night especially in the desert.

You will hear a call to prayer in most major cities. If you are visiting on a Friday, some traditional markets and shops might be closed during prayer time, as Friday is a holy day in the Muslim religion. Sunday is the start of the work week, having Friday and Saturdays off, as opposed to Saturday and Sunday off in the USA and Europe.

I found Jordan to be be very safe, and as a woman a wonderful place to travel.

I think the absolute best way to see Jordan is with a tour. I recommend Globus which organizes your trip from start to finish. I've been lucky enough to travel many times with Globus but this trip to Jordan was my absolute favorite.

Everything is organized for you from the seamless airport pickup, beautiful hotels, and unique experiences while still remaining affordable travel. The hotels were all absolutely stunning, some even 5 star! The VIP sightseeing was well planned and there was free time to explore on your own.

Globus takes care of all your travel needs. From taking your luggage off the bus and putting it in your room to organizing your required COVID exam the day before you return to the United States.

But the best part of touring with Globus is the incredible guide. Our tour guide, Osama, was with us every step of the way. Not only did he tell us the history of what we saw, he told us fun facts, and we were free to ask questions about the traditions and customs of Jordanians.

Globus Escapes is such a unique and wonderful concept. Tours are competitively priced and during off season. You save money and miss the crowds. This is truly the best way to experience Jordan.

February through May, early to mid spring, is typically best for visiting Jordan. You'll have nice temperatures. It's not too hot but can get chilly at night and windy near the Dead Sea. This is also great for hiking Petra or the Wadi Rum desert.

I suggest avoiding summer as it can get quite hot. September through early November is also good as well since it's not quite as hot.

I think seven days is the perfect amount to get a good feel for Jordan. You'll get to experience the major attractions including Petra, Wadi Rum and Amman. Plus you'll have time to relax, shop and take tours too.

We flew into the Queen Alia International Airport and Globus arranged a pick up. But this was not your average pickup! You'll be taken directly from your gate and through customs in a seamless and easy way. This service makes your travel stress-free and easy. We then took the car service directly to the hotel.

Amman, Jordan's capital, is a great place to start your trip. The city is spread out and has a lot to offer, from Roman ruins to great restaurants. The city is very walkable so I recommend for your first day to walk around town and have a bite to eat.

This is the largest city in Jordan with 4.5 million people and over half a million that drive in to work every day. It's known as the City of Seven Hills because of its history of Roman rule.

I was surprised to find a great mix of modern architecture mixed in with antiquity. You'll see street art, hip cafes, book shops, and local restaurants perfuming the air with delicious treats.

Rainbow Street is a great place to walk around, stop in a restaurant and get your bearings. Check out the Royal Automobile Museum to see one of the best collections of beautiful antique cars from King Hussein. Or, check out King Abdullah's Mosque .

Where to stay in Amman : Globus arranged for us to stay at Kempinski Hotel – a perfect spot to explore the city! This was a modern, lovely hotel with an included buffet breakfast and dinner with your Globus tour.

Make your way to the historic site of the Amman Citadel , which is in the heart of town. The city's original name, Rabbath-Ammon, means “capital of Ammon” and was coined by the Romans after they built the citadel, which is one of the world's oldest inhabited settlements.

The city's name was then changed by the Greeks to “Philadelphia” which means city of brotherly love and then, finally Amman.

You'll walk through the ancient gate that once led to the city and find the Temple Of Hercules. Built during Marcus Aurelius' seat as emperor, this temple has stood the test of time, despite earthquakes.

Leave some time to take in the museum inside the citadel, Jordan Archaeological Museum, filled with artifacts and information about the city, the ruins, and its people. Walk around the ruins and look down below at the sprawling city of Amman. You can see the Roman Forum below. You'll also find a huge, marble remnant of a hand of Hercules and it's speculated this was one of the largest marble statues known to man.

Next, our guide took use to Wasat Al-Balad in Downtown Amman . You'll find lots of shops selling fresh fruits and vegetables, clothing, and cafes. Make a stop at Habibah Sweets for traditional “ Kunafeh ” a dessert of fried goat cheese topped with dough and honey.

Then, it was time to head to Jerash , one of the best preserved Roman ruins outside of Rome!

Jerash is about an hour north of Amman and on our way we stopped off in the small village of Souf for a homemade traditional lunch at Beit Khairat Souf . There were piles of lamb kebab, steaming pots of tea, plates of hummus, and salads of every kind.

The food was absolutely divine and such a wonderful, unique experience organized by Globus . The restaurant is part of Beit Khairat Souf’s Women’s Community Project created to help women financially support themselves.

Just an hour north of Amman is the ancient city of Jerash. This well-preserved Roman ruin is one of the most impressive I've ever seen! I really enjoyed my time here. With sweeping views and incredible history, this site in Jordan cannot be missed.

What I found most fascinating, besides the nearly intact Jerash theater, hippodrome, temple of Zeus and Artemis, Forum, and Hadrian's Arch, was that much of it is still standing!

Earthquakes shook and destroyed much of the city, but the in the 2nd century AD Romans learned to add copper or tin between the columns which helped the structures not to fall over.

I definitely recommend a tour here as there's so much history to learn, our tour with Osama through Globus was incredible. We also had time to walk around and listen to the Jordan bagpipe band (not a typo!) in the Jerash theater. They played very familiar classics like Amazing Grace while I was shocked to see them outside of Scotland, I learned that the instrument's original roots are in the Middle East!

As we walked the grounds Michael stopped to play soccer with some kids. I love how accessible Jerash is, it perfectly mixes ancient ruins with modern day life, helping to picture what the ancient city really felt like.

We headed back to Amman to spend one more night in the Kempinski Hotel. For dinner we had a unique experience with a cooking class at Beit Sitti .

Beit Sitti means “Grandmother’s house” in Arabic, and it really felt like we were at Grandmother's house! Photos of their family hung on the wall and Maria, our instructor was lively and excited, showing us exactly how to cook while regaling us with stories.

I've never cooked traditional Middle Eastern cuisine before, and I learned a great deal, and also made a fabulous meal!

Heading to Wadi Rum feels like going to outer space. And I'm not the only one who thinks so, this also happens to be where they filmed the movie “The Martian” because it looks like the surface of Mars!

This is a desert valley made up of red sandstone and granite mountains. It's one of Jordan's most popular tourist destinations and was even used as a filming location for other movies like Lawrence of Arabia and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

On our way to the desert Osama helped learn how to tie a “keffiyeh,” a Bedouin scarf.

When we arrived we ate a buffet lunch at the Wadi Rum camp (you can spend the night out here if you'd like!) and then headed out for a four-by-four Jeep tour into the desert.

We spent a few hours touring around the incredible landscape, our hair whipping in the wind, as we gazed at the otherworldly landscape. You can tour sights like the red sand dunes, Lawrence’s Spring , the Khazali Canyon , the House of Lawrence , Abu Khashaba Canyon and Um Frouth Arch .

We hopped out of the jeeps and had the option to take a short, 30 minute camel ride to the Bedouin camp. If you've never done one, I recommend it! We did have a “frothing” camel since one of the females was in heat. Michael was the lucky one to ride this camel, and it was quite comical!

Camels are an integral part of the Bedouin nomadic lifestyle. Bedouin means “roamer” and this incredible part of the Jordan population traverses the landscape.

We then headed into a Bedouin tent for traditional tea. It was incredible to see how they live and use the land to sustain themselves. Then a Bedouin family invited us to show how they make bread. It was delicious! We dipped it in oil and spices and savored it among the towering red rocks. Hot and fresh off the fire we tasted the delicious bread and spoke with the family who welcomed us with such kindness.

After our long day, we made the drive to Petra so that we could get up early and hike to one of the world's wonders! See my full guide to Petra here !

For dinner, we enjoyed an incredible, home cooked dinner with a Jordanian family in Petra. We started off by drinking coffee, a ritual with lots of meaning. Each guest was handed a small cup of steaming coffee. It's tradition to start with a cup for each guest and customary to have 1-3 cups. If you have more than 3, you're telling the host the coffee is too weak!

Then we were taken to the kitchen for highlight of the evening: mansaf !

On our plane ride over from the USA we were told we must have this traditional Jordanian dish of mansaf, but ONLY if it was home cooked! We were in luck!

This tender lamb dish was decadent and scrumptious. Jordanians definitely encourage you to eat and drink to your fill! We had such a lovely evening chatting and learning about one another's cultures and traditions.

Where to Stay in Petra : Movenpick Resort Petra . It's a hike to get to Petra and this hotel is quite literally as close as you can get! This 5-star hotel is right by the Petra Visitor Center and Museum and is the perfect place to wake up, beat the crowd and head to the sight.

The buffet breakfast was particularly good and the interior of the hotel feels like a luxurious spa. Marble floors and delicate inlaid fixtures made for a beautiful place to rest.

Petra is a magical place and one of the new wonders of the world and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It has to be seen to be believed! You'll need at least one full day here to enjoy and relish in the history and awe-inspiring architecture.

I recommend you wear hiking boots or tennis shoes, lightweight clothing, and don't forget a hat and sunscreen.

See my full guide to Petra Here!

You can enter Petra through the Siq , a narrow crack in the sandstone that's bordered by walls that soar hundreds of feet into the air. As you walk through this enigmatic corridor, you'll be filled with anticipation for what lies ahead.

And then suddenly, you emerge into the breathtaking and very famous Treasury . It's no wonder that this is one of the most photographed sites in all of Jordan – it's absolutely stunning!

There is also a back entrance, a longer hike of 9 miles but it gives you an incredible view of Petra and the land surrounding it as well as the Monastery with no tourists!

Petra was inhabited by the Nabataeans and later fell under Roman rule during their reign. But they were eventually driven away by an earthquake in 363 AD.

As I explored the incredible ruins of Petra, I was filled with awe and wonder at the remarkable architecture and history of this ancient city. The site is truly one of the world's wonders, as its spectacular stone temples and tombs have been preserved for centuries. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade was filmed here and it's easy to see why this site was chosen!

PRO TIP: Don't just stop at the Treasury! Yes, it's a hike to keep walking al the way to the Monastery, but it will be well worth it. You'll have far less crowds and absolutely stunning views.

There are plenty of places along the way to grab a bite to eat or drink. And, if you're particularly tired after the miles of hiking, you can take a camel, horse, or donkey ride back. Now, they even have golf carts! It's 1.2km (about .75 mile) long to the Siq, the narrow gorge to the Treasury, but a total of 6 kilometers to the monastery (3 miles) so 12 kilometers (6 miles) round trip.

I spent several hours hiking around Petra, marveling at the incredible architecture and history. Save some energy because you must come back at night for “ Petra by Night .”

We had a short break in between where we explored the visitor's center and museum, got a bite to eat and rested our feet before an additional hike back in.

White paper bags filled with sand and candles are the only sources of light that warm the red stone walls. As you meander down the narrow gorge the bright stars above you beckon you down to the music.

From the visitor center to the Treasury, more than 1,000 candles illuminate the path. The Treasury is lit up as the Bedouins play music for around 40 minutes before being told a brief history of Petra's development.

Not only is Petra a wonderful place to see, the history of the Nabataeans is fascinating.

Full guide to Petra here!

If you have extra time in Petra check out “ Little Petra ” also known as Siq al-Barid. It's an archaeological site located north of Petra and the town of Wadi Musa with smaller versions of buildings carved into sandstone.

We drove from Petra on to the Dead Sea and made some stops along the way. First was the Crusader Castle or Kerak , which was built in 1132 A.D.

This fortified castle is one of the largest in Jordan, and gives stunning views. Built like a labyrinth, the castle held prisoners and you can walk through where they were held.

After exploring the castle we had lunch and then made our way to Wadi Mujib .

We had a quick stop at the “Grand Canyon of Jordan” with sweeping views and the wind whipping the cavernous gorge as it carves it's way down the the Dead Sea.

We arrived just in time for sunset and a dip at the lowest place on earth, the Dead Sea !

I absolutely love how Globus organized our Dead Sea experience. We stayed at a lovely resort: Movenpick Resort and Spa at the Dead Sea which gives you private beach access. Having gone to the Dead Sea in Israel, I can say this is a truly enjoyable experience.

Well, because the water is 34 salinity, super salty, nothing lives in it! But this also means you can easily float in it! You'll literally feel like a cork bobbing on top of the water. It's a sensation unlike anything else I've ever experienced. You can see me float in the Dead Sea here !

DO NOT: dive, splash, or get the water in your eyes. It will burn. I would also avoid getting it in your mouth. I recommend about 20 minutes at a time for a float because it can cause dehydration.

It's a bit tricky getting into the water as there are salt formations that can be tough on your feet. if you have water shoes or flip flops you can opt for that, or just walk in carefully like I did.

But don't be alarmed! The minerals are very good for your skin. I also recommend lathering up with some Dead Sea mud and enjoying the ritual of washing it off in the water. My skin felt so smooth after!

Where to stay at the Dead Sea : As I mentioned above, we stayed at the Movenpick Resort . This gorgeous, large hotel greets you with sweet tea and comfortable, spacious rooms. The highlight, of course, is your access to the Dead Sea. There are lifeguards here to help you enter the water – this was especially nice to not hurt my feet on the salt formations.

The resort offers pools, a spa, and many restaurants on the property. We had pina colodas and enjoyed sunset at the beach bar.

In the morning we had time for another dip in the Dead Sea, so mud up and go for it!

Then we headed to some of the most moving religious sites. I was excited to see the place where Jesus was Baptized and Moses saw the Promised Land , but it was really an emotional experience.

Whether you're religious or not, we've grown up with stories from the Bible and its historical significance has touched the world. To see it come to life was truly an experience. I was raised Catholic and going to these places and hearing the descriptions is unlike anything I've ever experienced before.

Our guide, Rustom Mkhjian, is the esteemed Director General of Bethany Beyond the Jordan , who shared an outpouring of love and enthusiasm for these sights. We saw the spot where Elijah was taken in to heaven in a chariot of fire, the spot where John the Baptist lived and performed miracles, and the place where John baptized Jesus in the Jordan River.

The baptism site of Jesus was particularly moving, and because there weren't any crowds we got to go down and touch the water.

At the Jordan river you can see the border of Israel and you feel a certain kind of significance standing here. I also recommend stepping inside the Greek Orthodox St John the Baptist Church.

Next, we took a short drive to Madaba to see the world's oldest map of the Holy Land on the floor of St. George's Church. Known as the City of Mosaics the incredibly numerous mosaics lay untouched for over 1,000 years until they were uncovered when a new building project was started.

The Madaba Archaeological Park and Museum contains the ruins of several Byzantine churches, as well as the stunning Madaba Mosaic Map and the Hippolytus Hall, part of a 6th century mansion.

From here, we went to St. George's Church to see the mosaic map of Jerusalem of the floor in the church. The Mosaic Map was created in the 6th Century to help pilgrims get around the Holy Land. The Holy Land's sites are shown throughout Jordan, Israel, the Palestinian Territories, and Egypt's Sinai in detail. This helps prove the location of Jesus' baptism.

From the mosaics in Madaba, we made our way to Mount Nebo . This is where Moses surveyed the Promised Land of Canaan. God prohibited him from proceeding any farther, and he died before leading his people into it, according to the scroll. It is claimed that Moses was buried in this area, but no one knows exactly where it is.

After a long day of touring, we headed back for our last night at the Dead Sea and one more sunset.

Globus arranges your easy transport back from the Dead Sea to Amman. It's about an hour's drive.

Our flight was early and Globus arranged to have a boxed breakfast ready to go. We had plenty of time to get to the airport and head home after a fabulous trip. You can check all the Globus Escape tours right here .

Of course there's more to see in Jordan. If you have time, you can extend your time in the desert at Wadi Rum or take more time in Petra. Also Aquada is a place to see the Red Sea and, if you're up for it, go diving.

This was a whirlwind tour of some of Jordan's most incredible sites. I hope this travel guide helps you plan your one week itinerary (or more!) for Jordan! I highly recommend making your trip easy with Globus !

This post is in collaboration with Globus, but all opinions are my own.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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We were very happy with our guides. They had excellent people skills, were very knowledgeable and accommodating. We can only highly recommend them.

Jordan is served by daily nonstop flights from London and easy one-stop connections from around the UK, as well as nonstop routings from major European, North American and Southeast Asian hubs.

When to travel

Flights from the uk and ireland, flights from the us and canada, flights from australia, new zealand and south africa, organized tours, getting to jordan overland, tailor-made travel itineraries for jordan, created by local experts.

6 days  / from 1333 USD

Discover Jordan

Jordan has it all: spectacular desert scenery; the Dead Sea, age-old cities, castles, monuments, and more. Discover the best of this welcoming country as you delve into the history of ancient civilizations and see one of the New Seven Wonders of the World up close.

8 days  / from 1665 USD

Treasures of Jordan

From the Dead Sea's restorative salty shores to Red Sea reefs teeming with aquatic life, Jordan is full of treasures. Get a taste of desert life and adventure in Wadi Rum; then fill up on culture in Petra and Amman, and maybe squeeze in a trip to Jerusalem, too.

6 days  / from 1080 USD

Highlights of Jordan

Explore the highlights of Jordan in this compact itinerary. Activities include stargazing in Wadi Rum, exploring Petra and spending a day at leisure at the Dead Sea. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories about history and culture and introduce the Bedouin lifestyle to you.

Tailor-made trips for   Jordan

Queen Alia International Airport in Amman (AMM) ( w aig.aero ) handles almost all incoming flights to Jordan. A few flights arrive at Aqaba (AQJ) ( w aac.jo ), which is linked to Amman by daily short-hop shuttles on the national carrier Royal Jordanian.

The best times to visit Jordan , weather-wise, are spring (March–May) and autumn (Sept & Oct), although this is also when air fares and package deals are at their most expensive. In summer you face the disadvantages of heat – though it’s rarely extreme – and the peak season for tourism from the Gulf countries (as well as the holy month of fasting, Ramadan, which falls in June and/or July each year until 2016). Winter, when fares are lower, can be chilly for sightseeing.

Air fares also peak in the periods surrounding major Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, when thousands – or, in the case of the hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, millions – of people are on the move. For weeks before the hajj (which takes place in Sept/Oct until 2016), whole planes get block-booked for pilgrims on many routes into the Middle East – not just flights into Saudi Arabia, but also connections via Jordan and neighbouring countries. For two weeks after the pilgrimage, few planes out of the region have spare capacity. It pays to check when Islamic holidays are due to fall; book well ahead if you want to fly at or near those times.

One thing to watch when planning an itinerary is your scheduled arrival time : many flights from London, for instance, are afternoon departures, landing in Amman in the late evening – which means your head may not actually hit the pillow until midnight or later. In addition, many return flights to London take off from Amman at breakfast time, necessitating a pre-dawn wake-up call.

Flying to Amman from London there are nonstop flights daily from Heathrow on Royal Jordanian ( w rj.com ) and British Airways ( w ba.com), and thrice-weekly from Gatwick on easyJet ( w easyjet.com). With a bit of flexibility, return fares can be had for £200–250 – though if your dates are fixed or you’re booking at short notice, expect to add £100 or more to that. The flight time is five hours.

If you’re starting from elsewhere in the UK or Ireland you could opt for a shuttle flight into Heathrow or Gatwick to pick up a connection, or explore options on Lufthansa ( w lufthansa.com) via Frankfurt, Austrian ( w austrian.com ) via Vienna or Air France ( w airfrance.com) via Paris. Alternatively Turkish Airlines ( w thy.com) has some decent fares from Birmingham, Manchester and Dublin to Amman via Istanbul.

Holiday charter flights formerly operated weekly from Gatwick to Aqaba, but were axed in 2011 and show no signs of resumption.

From North America , Royal Jordanian flies nonstop to Amman from New York, Chicago and Montreal, plus one-stop direct from Detroit. RJ’s codesharing deals offer good connections from a range of other cities. Delta ( w delta.com) flies from many US cities to Paris, and from there onward to Amman codesharing on Air France. United ( w united.com) offers good connections with European airlines such as Lufthansa and Austrian, while British Airways ( w ba.com), Air Canada ( w aircanada.com) and others also fly (or codeshare) from major cities with a change of plane. Turkish Airlines ( w thy.com) has nonstop flights from Chicago, New York, Washington and Los Angeles into Istanbul, for a shuttle onward to Amman. EgyptAir ( w egyptair.com) does the same from New York via Cairo.

Expect a round-trip fare in high season of around US$1000–1400 from the east and Midwest, US$1600–2000 from the west, and C$1100–1800 out of Canada. All these drop slightly in low season. Flight time is eleven hours from the East Coast or fifteen hours from the West Coast, not including stops on the ground.

There are no direct flights to Jordan from Australasia – though, thanks to code-sharing, it’s relatively easy to put together a one-stop routing: Qantas or Thai to Bangkok, for instance, then direct to Amman with Royal Jordanian. Pricier alternatives include Emirates via Dubai or Etihad via Abu Dhabi. From South Africa , you’re looking at one-stop routings on Emirates, Etihad , Qatar , EgyptAir or Turkish.

Return fares from Australia are likely to start around A$2000; add A$500 or more in the high season. From New Zealand, reckon on NZ$3000–3500, and from South Africa around R6000–9000.

Many organized tours follow a fairly set pattern – a week or so in Jordan, comprising stays in Amman, Petra, Aqaba and/or the Dead Sea, with sightseeing on the way and excursions to sites like Jerash and Wadi Rum.

The advantage of these packages is that they get you a good-value flight-plus-accommodation deal. By booking a tour in advance you can end up staying in posh hotels for bargain prices. The disadvantage, of course, becomes clear if you fancy an extra day or two on your own to explore Petra once you get there.

Our tailor-made service is here to help you with your itinerary and tour selection. Whether you have specific holiday plans, want to learn all about Jordan's archaeological sites, or want to learn how to scuba dive, our local Jordan experts can help you create a tailor-made tour to suit your requirements. Here are some examples of our fully customisable tours that you may be interested in:

• Honeymoon in Jordan (10 days): Indulge in a blissful honeymoon in Jordan, where relaxation and adventure await. Soak in the soothing Ma'in Hot Springs, explore the captivating landscapes of Wadi Rum, and wander hand in hand through the ancient wonders of Petra.
• Family adventure in Jordan (8 days): This tour has been specially designed to highlight the most exciting corners of Jordan, from natural reserves to historical Jerash to magnificent Petra, from Wadi Rum desert to the blissful Dead Sea.
• An active adventure in Jordan (8 days): Experience a mix of hiking in the North of Jordan, canyon trails and relaxing activities combined with sightseeing of the highlights and meeting locals.
• Follow the Foot Steps of Jesus in Jordan (8 days): During this holiday you will be introduced to many Biblical places across our beloved county accompanied by our knowledgeable tour guide who will tell you a lot about the fascinating history and culture of Jordan.
• Mind, Body & Soul in Jordan (8 days): During this holiday, you will find your “peace of mind”. Discover Jordan highlights with relaxing activities and meeting locals. Visit peaceful spots with breathtaking landscapes and practice true relaxation.

For more practical guidance that will help you make the most of your Jordan trip, read our guide to the best things to do in Jordan and browse more of our Jordan itineraries to find the best option to suit your tastes.

Many independent travellers visit Jordan overland, either popping across from one of the neighbours or as part of a longer odyssey between Istanbul and Cairo. Border crossings are straightforward, and most nationalities can get a visa on arrival – except at King Hussein/Allenby Bridge between Jerusalem and Amman , where no Jordanian visas are issued.

From Damascus

At the time of writing, violence and civil disorder were continuing in Syria and the country was effectively closed to tourists. We have retained information in this section in the hope that, by the time you read this, travel will once again be possible. The easiest way to get to Amman from the Syrian capital Damascus, barely 100km north of the Jordanian frontier, is by serveece, or shared taxi. Before the conflict they departed day and night from the Sumriyeh (Somaria) garage in western Damascus, for S£700 (JD11 or US$15) per seat. It’s common for individuals to buy two seats (or couples to buy three) to give a roomier ride – or you can charter the whole car (usually four or five seats). There are 24-hour banks at the border. The usual terminus in Amman is Abdali, but for a little bit extra the driver will drop you off anywhere you want. The journey time is about three hours.

Karnak and JETT buses to Amman used to leave from Kadem station in Damascus (t 011 441 0531) daily at 7am and 3pm; as we went to press, though, the service remained suspended. Formerly, the fare was around S£600 (US$11 or JD8). Reckon on a journey time of four hours, since everyone must clear customs and immigration before the bus can carry on (which is one reason to go by serveece instead). Buses terminate next to the JETT External Lines office, in the Abdali district. It’s wise to book seats one day ahead. Extra buses are laid on in the peak summer season.

The passenger service between Damascus and Amman on the historic Hejaz railway has been permanently withdrawn. Flying takes longer than driving.

From Jerusalem

No public transport runs directly between Jerusalem and Amman: the only way to go is with a combination of bus, taxi and serveece. All traffic is funnelled towards the single border crossing open to the public, located a short way north of Jericho in the West Bank. It is known as the Allenby Bridge (Jissr Allenby in Arabic; Gesher Allenby in Hebrew) or the King Hussein Bridge (Jissr al-Malek Hussein). Opening hours are limited (Sun–Thurs 8am–midnight, Fri & Sat 8am–3pm; t 02 548 2600). The Israeli and Jordanian terminals are around 5km apart, separated by no-man’s-land either side of the bridge itself. Walking across, or taking a private car, is forbidden: you must take public transport. This crossing-point is also notoriously subject to the ebb and flow of Middle Eastern politics, and can close at short notice.

Although you must have a visa to enter Jordan, they are not issued at this bridge – which, thanks to a complex piece of official doublethink, is not viewed by Jordan as an international border. If you try to cross without already holding a Jordanian visa, you’ll be turned back by Israeli security.

Israeli buses from West Jerusalem don’t go to the bridge; they only drop off at a parking area beside Highway 90 by a security barrier. Instead, use the serveeces (shared taxis) which depart frequently from East Jerusalem for NIS38 per person plus NIS4 per bag – choose from Abdo travel agency opposite Damascus Gate (t 02 628 3281) or Nejmeh (t 02 627 7466), a short walk east on the same street beside the Golden Walls hotel. Set out early in the morning, or book your ride in advance: serveeces stop running by about midday (10am on Fri & Sat), after which your only certain option of reaching the bridge is a private taxi for NIS200 or more. Buses also run to the bridge from Jericho.

At the Israeli bridge terminal (foreigners’ hall), your bags are taken away for X-ray while you pay the Israeli departure tax, currently NIS176 (around US$45). If you intend to use your passport for overland travel beyond Jordan, be sure to tell the Israeli officials to stamp the loose immigration forms only, not your passport (see From Jerusalem). Then you reclaim your bags and must wait up to an hour for a bus which makes the short trip across the bridge to the Jordanian arrivals terminal – the fare is JD3 plus JD1.25 per bag, usually payable in cash dinars only. During the trip the bus driver will collect all passports; on arrival you go into the foreigners’ arrivals hall to reclaim your passport, which won’t have been stamped by the Jordanian officials. Here you’ll find a snack bar, a bank and an ATM. Taxi drivers gather outside, charging JD25-30 to Amman. Alternatively, turn left and head through a couple of unmarked doors to find the exit from the locals’ arrival hall, from where serveeces do the one-hour journey to Tabarboor station in Amman for JD5-6 per person.

With luck the journey from Jerusalem to Amman can take as little as two hours; without it (or with security/immigration delays) you could be hanging around most of the day. If you need speed, you can pay roughly US$200 for VIP service city-to-city from agencies such as w amman2jerusalem.com – but this excludes the bridge shuttle bus. A better option is to take ordinary taxis at both ends, but then at the Israeli departures terminal go to the marked VIP office run by Laufer Aviation (w laufer.co.il) – for around US$100 they can whisk you through all the passport and security formalities and zip you direct to Jordanian arrivals in a private minibus.

From Tel Aviv and Nazareth

Buses of Trust International Transport run regularly from the Israeli cities of Tel Aviv and Nazareth direct to Irbid and Amman, without passing through the West Bank. From Tel Aviv, buses depart from the Central Bus Station, 4th floor, bay 99 (Sun–Fri 3pm; NIS180; t 050 553 8762). From Lower Nazareth, departures are from the Trust office (daily 2pm; NIS160; t 04 646 6660). Both services cross at a bridge over the River Jordan about 6km east of Bet She’an (Beisan in Arabic), known to the Israelis as the Jordan River crossing (Sun–Thurs 6.30am–9pm, Fri & Sat 8am–8pm; t 04 609 3400), and to the Jordanians as the Sheikh Hussein Bridge or simply the Northern Crossing. You pay an Israeli departure tax, currently NIS98 (about US$25), plus around NIS5 for a bus across the bridge. On the Jordanian side, after you’ve bought a visa (JD20), the waiting bus continues to Irbid (dropping off at the Trust office near Safeway) and on to Amman, terminating at the Trust office near 7th Circle. Reckon on 4-5 hours end to end – and always book one day in advance. You can also cross independently, with a taxi from Bet She’an to the bridge (around NIS25) and another taxi to Irbid (around JD25) or Amman (around JD50).

Flying from Tel Aviv to Amman costs around US$280 one-way on Royal Jordanian (t 03 516 5566, w rj.com) – but offers the lure of spectacular scenery over desert hills and the Dead Sea. Flight time is about thirty minutes.

Another crossing-point from Israel is in the south, between the neighbouring Red Sea resort cities of Eilat (Israel) and Aqaba (Jordan), known to the Israelis as the Yitzhak Rabin Crossing or Arava crossing (Sun–Thurs 6.30am–8pm, Fri & Sat 8am–8pm; t 08 630 0555), and to the Jordanians as the Wadi Araba or Southern Crossing. From Eilat bus station, it’s reached most easily by taking a taxi (around NIS50) or by simply walking 2km to the border. There’s an Israeli departure tax, currently NIS98 (about US$25). Once you’re through the formalities – Jordanian visas are free at this crossing (see Customs and duty-free) – a taxi into central Aqaba (5km) costs JD10-15, if you bargain hard.

From Cairo and the Sinai

Buses do run from Cairo to Amman, though it’s an uncomfortable journey of at least twenty hours. Jordanian JETT and Egyptian SuperJet buses leave once or twice weekly from the Almaza terminal in Heliopolis (t 02 2290 9013). The East Delta bus company (t 02 2405 3482) runs daily services from the Sinai terminal in Abbassiya. The fare on either is around US$90–110 including the Nuweiba–Aqaba ferry, payable in dollars only. Royal Jordanian and EgyptAir fly from Cairo to Amman (around US$240; flight time 1hr 30min), and you can also find flights from Alexandria, El-Arish and Sharm el-Sheikh.

Ferry services from Egypt to Aqaba are operated out of Nuweiba by AB Maritime (Cairo t 02 2260 4949, Nuweiba t 069 352 0365; w abmaritime.com.jo). At the time of writing, fast ferries (catamarans) depart daily at 5pm (economy US$75; first class US$95; 1hr), and slow ferries depart daily at 5pm and 10pm (US$70; 3hr) – though their timetable is notoriously unreliable and can change from month to month. Expect lengthy delays. There may be a tax of about EGP50. Arrive at the port, 8km south of Nuweiba, at least two hours early to buy tickets (with US dollars only). On boarding, you’ll have to hand over your passport, which will be returned to you at Aqaba passport control, where visas are free. A serveece into central Aqaba (9km) is about JD2 per person, a taxi about JD8. Check for details of extra departures in peak season (during summer, at the end of Ramadan, and around the hajj and Eid al-Adha).

You’d do better to opt for the other ferry, a passenger-only catamaran (built in 2010) also run by AB Maritime but marketed by Meenagate (Aqaba t 03 201 3136, w meenagate.com). It’s slightly more expensive, but eliminates the chaos and uncertainty – and, above all, runs to a fixed, reliable daily schedule. Until their online booking system is up and running, book at least 24 hours in advance by phone or email; you may have to send a copy of your passport by email. Departure from Nuweiba is daily at 6am; you must be at Meenagate’s Pyramid Hall check-in zone, separate from the main hall, by 5am. The fare is US$85, which includes all taxes and a snack on board. The voyage takes ninety minutes and arrives at the convenient Royal Yacht Club marina, within easy walking distance of Aqaba’s city-centre hotels.

Ferries and cruises to Aqaba also used to run out of Taba, 70km north of Nuweiba. These were suspended at the time of writing; check for the latest info with tour operators in Sinai or Cairo.

A cheaper and often easier alternative is to go overland through the Israeli resort of Eilat. Taba, on the Egyptian-Israeli border, is well served by transport from Nuweiba, Dahab and Cairo. The crossing is open 24 hours daily, but it’s difficult to find transport inside Israel during the Jewish shabbat, so avoid turning up here after 2pm Friday and before 8pm Saturday. There may be a small Egyptian departure tax (around EGP50), and most nationalities are routinely issued with a free Israeli visa on arrival. Once in Israel, a combination of city buses and walking will get you to the Jordanian border (hagvul ha-yardeni in Hebrew), but it’s easier to take a taxi (around NIS80–100). Details about crossing into Jordan are given in “From Eilat”. Total journey time is about two or three hours – though the passport stamps you pick up will disqualify you from subsequently entering Syria and many other Middle Eastern countries.

Travelling onwards from Jordan with an Israeli stamp

If you intend to visit Israel, the West Bank or Gaza as part of a longer journey in the region, you need to bear in mind that it is the official policy of almost all Middle Eastern and North African countries (exceptions include Egypt, Jordan and Morocco) to refuse entry to people who have evidence of a visit to Israel in their passports. “Evidence” includes not only Israeli stamps, but also Jordanian entry or exit stamps from the border-posts at the Sheikh Hussein/Jordan River Bridge, the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge and the Wadi Araba/Yitzhak Rabin crossing (Aqaba–Eilat), as well as Egyptian stamps from the border-posts at Taba (near Eilat) and Rafah in northern Sinai. Visas issued in Israel for travel to any country and flight itineraries that specify Tel Aviv (or TLV) will also bar you, as will anything in Hebrew discovered in your belongings.

We’ve had some reports of travellers holding Israeli stamps getting into certain countries (Tunisia, Oman and the UAE, among others) without any difficulty, but this can’t be relied upon. Syrian and Lebanese officials are the least flexible in this regard.

The best advice is to construct your itinerary so that you visit Israel last, after Syria and the rest. Alternatively, you can apply in your home country, well in advance, for a second passport: many countries issue these to people travelling around the Middle East as a matter of routine, but it’s then up to you to ensure that your tally of entry and exit stamps in each passport adds up, and that you don’t hand the wrong passport over to the wrong border official.

If you hold only one passport, there is no foolproof method of avoiding a giveaway stamp. If you’re feeling lucky, and you’ve entered Jordan by air, sea or across the land borders from Syria, Iraq or Saudi Arabia, then you could try using only the King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge to cross from Jordan to the West Bank and back (while making sure that your Jordanian visa does not expire in the meantime). At this bridge Israeli and Jordanian immigration officials will usually stamp you both in and out on a piece of paper if you ask, thus avoiding any permanent evidence of having been “on the other side” (as many travellers refer to Israel, to avoid detection by eavesdropping officials). However, the success of this depends on not running into an official who decides to stamp your passport regardless.

It’s a well-known ploy of travellers who have unwittingly acquired evidence of a visit to Israel to lose their passports deliberately in Egypt or Jordan and apply for new ones from their embassies. However, an unused passport issued in Cairo or Amman is as much evidence to some consular officials of a visit to “Occupied Palestine” (as Syrian visa application forms put it) as a border stamp. Even if the loss of your old passport was genuine, you may still find yourself refused entry to certain countries on this suspicion alone.

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How to Get Around in Jordan

With planes, buses and taxis, there are many way to get around Jordan by public transport. On top of this, the roads in Jordan are safe and easy to navigate making it ideal for those who wish to hire a car and venture further afield. Either way, you can be sure to find affordable and simple transport options in Jordan.

Get Around in Jordan By Plane

The main airport in Jordan is Queen Alia International Airport which is home to popular national airlines including Royal Jordanian. Visitors can fly to Jordan from almost any country on a daily basis.

The airport is located just 30 km from the capital city of Amman making it the best option for those who wish to get around Jordan easily. There are also many internal flights which are operated by Royal Jordanian. The only internal route is between Amman and Aqaba which takes just half an hour, costs around 56JD (80USD) and offers wonderful views of the desert below.

Get around in Jordan by Private Transfer

With our private transfers in Amman, you can reach almost every corner of this beautiful country. A permanently available transfer can be organized daily to the main sites in Jordan. If you want to go to a special location or you cannot find the transfer option you are looking for, please feel free to contact us and we will find you an option.

Get Around in Jordan By Bus

Once you have arrived in Jordan, do as the locals do and travel by bus. Buses in Jordan are more like minibusses with some coaches in the larger cities. When it comes to timings, Jordan is a fairly relaxed country and the buses here do not follow timetables. Instead, a bus will depart the station once it is full so you must be prepared to wait.

The roads in Jordan are very good and bus journeys are fairly quick with a trip between Amman and Aqaba taking just under four hours. As these bus systems are built for local people, expect affordable local prices. A half hour journey will only cost around 1 USD.

Discover Jordan with a tour

One of the most convenient ways to discover Jordan is by joining a tour. There are many options of tours all around Jordan among them this  Petra and Wadi Rum Tour from Amman , this Petra Tour from Aqaba or the  Highlights of Jordan 3 day tour . For more tour options click here .

GetTING Around in Jordan By Taxi

A Jordanian taxi can be recognized by its yellow and green shades and Arabic writing. Taxis are very affordable and drivers will usually be happy to take visitors on both short and long journeys. For slightly longer trips and day excursions, it is more cost worthy to hire a car or join a tour operator.

Get Around in Jordan By Train

There are no trains operating in Jordan except for the occasional train excursion on the astonishing Hejaz Railway. These train journeys are tailor made and organized by international tour companies so expect high prices.

Explore Jordan By Car

For those who like to hit the road at their own leisure, the best option for getting around Jordan is to hire a car. Arrange car hire prior to your trip with one of the many car hire companies based in Jordan. Hiring with a local car company equals lower prices. Expect to pay around 25-30JD (35-40 USD) per day for a fairly new model with insurance. International driving licenses are accepted. There are many petrol stations on-route in Jordan and an attendant will be on hand to assist you.

Get Around in Jordan By Bike

In order to take in the sites and natural beauty of Jordan, the most scenic option is to travel around by bike. Try to avoid cycling through busy cities as many drivers are not used to cyclists on the road. The best way to cycle through Jordan is with a tour group such as the Cycling Jordan company which arranges bike trips for an entire weekend with likeminded enthusiasts.

With unreliable bus schedules and only one internal flight route, the most convenient way to get around Jordan is to hire a car or take part in an organized tour. If, however, you plan to stay in one destination and are prepared to wait for departures then the bus system is cheap, simple and a great way to experience Jordan like a local.

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The Ultimate Jordan Itinerary with map (2023)

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A Jordan road trip is full to the brim of amazing historic sights, beautiful scenery and delicious food making it the perfect spot to take a road trip. From floating in the salty Dead Sea to marvelling at the iconic Petra, Jordan is definitely one of our most memorable trips! We loved our time spent exploring Jordan and, to help with your Jordan planning, we’ve put together our ultimate Jordan itinerary to help you plan your trip. From its unmissable historic sights to the best places to stay, this itinerary will help you make the most of your journey through Jordan!

Table of Contents

Planning a Jordan Road Trip

Arriving in jordan.

Amman is the main point of entry to Jordan whether it be on an international flight or by an overland crossing from Israel via the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge Crossing (you can read about  how to cross via the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge here ). From Eliat in Israel, the Yitzhak Rabin/Arava border is another popular entry point as it offers the opportunity to get a free Jordan visa for visitors from a number of countries.

Make sure to check the visa requirements prior to arrival. Some middle eastern countries are visa exempt while much of the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific are subject to a visa on arrival. Most of Africa and a select number of other countries are required to obtain a pre approved visa.

Jordan itinerary tip:  visas on arrival are not granted at the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge Crossing so make sure you secure a visa prior to the crossing. We didn’t realise and had to make a last minute jaunt to the Jordanian Consulate in the Palestinian City of Ramallah in the West Bank. We really enjoyed seeing Ramallah (check out the details of getting a visa in Ramallah here ) but you might want to organise your visa in advance!

Where to Stay in Jordan

There is a good selection of hotels in Jordan and we opted for three bases during our stay: Amman, Dead Sea and Petra. Agaba is a great fourth base if you want a resort type stopover or want to enjoy some scuba diving. We used booking.com for our Jordan accommodation as it has an amazing range of options and offers the best prices we could find in Jordan– you can hotel prices on  booking.com here .

What to Wear in Jordan

Clothing is more relaxed in the more touristy resort and beach areas but it is considered respectful to cover up when out and about. 3/4 length pants and long-sleeved tops covering cleavage worked well for us.

Jordan Itinerary Route

Most Jordan road trips start and end in Amman and we used the city as an entry and exit point. If you are entering from Eliat, you can start your trip in Aqaba and still hit all the main stops from there so feel free to adjust the itinerary accordingly.

The route: (A)   Amman – (B) Day trips to Jerash and (C) Umm Qais – (D) Petra – (E) Wadi Rum –  Kings Highway – (F) Dead Sea – Aqaba – (A) Amman

Click here for the Google Map

How to Use This Google Map: Click on the grey star at the top of the map and this map will be added to your Google Maps account. You can then view it on your phone or computer in Google Maps by clicking on the menu button, going to “Your Places” and selecting this map. We use these maps all the time as you can set out your itinerary ahead of time and quickly reference the saved maps.

Getting around Jordan

A car is the best option for exploring Jordan, however it is also possible to see the main sights in the country from Amman via day and multi-day tours.

Renting a Car in Jordan

Renting a car in Jordan is the best way to explore the country plus driving is relatively easy in the country. The roads are very good quality and fuel is cheap. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace a see places that are simply not possible on group tours or public transport – check out our tips for renting a car in Jordan for more information.

We’re huge fans of road trips and have driven rental cars in almost 50 countries so we have a lot of experience renting cars in foreign countries. Book your car now with RentalCars.com , where you will find the best rental car prices – click here to book now

Click here for the best rental car prices

Tours from Amman

It is also possible to visit many of the sites in Jordan from Amman via organised tours

Petra and Wadi Rum: This small group two-day tour departs Amman and includes Petra, the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum – check prices now!

Jerash and Umm Qais – This popular day trip tour from Amman and includes Jerash, Umm Qais and Ajloun Castle – check prices now!

Check out all the tours from Amman

Jordan Itinerary

1 | amman .

Jordan’s capital city is a heady mix of modern and ancient and is the perfect balance of chaotic and charming. Often used as a stopover en route to the rest of the country, it’s worth spending a few days exploring if you have some time. Amman is also a great base for taking a day trip north to the incredible ruins of Jerash and Umm Qais.

How long to stay in Amman

We recommend 3 nights in Amman, which will allow a day trip to Jerash and Umm Qais and time to explore the city.

Jordan itinerary tip:  Amman traffic is notorious so be prepared for traffic jams. As we arrived by taxi from the border we arranged our car rental to be delivered to our Amman hotel. This is a great option if you want to avoid the crazy city traffic.

Where to Stay in Amman

• Marriott Amman –  we opted for the Marriott Hotel in Amman. The hotel was modern, rooms well appointed and the swimming pool a welcome relief from the city heat –    Check prices now!
• Amman Pasha hotel  – an excellent budget option located across from the Roman Amphitheater with a lively cafe next door –  Check prices now!

Click here for the best Amman Hotel Prices

What to see in Amman

• The Citadel and its beautiful views of the city
• Souk Jara market for some local shopping
• The Roman Amphitheatre
• Rainbow Street and its plentiful souvenir shops

2 | Day trip from Amman to Jerash and Umm Qais

Amman is a great base for a day trip to both the incredible Roman ruins of Jerash (45 minutes north of Amman) and the hilltop settlement of Umm Qais (2 hours north of Jerash). The 12th Century Ajloun Castle, a hilltop castle, is an interesting stop between the two sites.

Jordan itinerary tip:  if you are combining Jerash and Umm Qais in a single day trip make sure you leave your hotel early in the morning as this will involve 6 hours of driving in total there and back. The roads north are good roads making it doable in a single day. An alternative, if you prefer shorter sightseeing days or wish to spend longer exploring the expansive Jerash, is to split the sites over two separate days. If you prefer to sit back and relax and take a tour, check out some options here .

The Roman ruins of Jerash are among the best preserved Roman ruins in the world. Highlights of Jerash include the hippodrome which once hosted chariot races watched by up to 15,000 spectators, cardo maximus, once the main thoroughfare through the city, and Hadrian’s Arch, built to commemorate a visit by Emperor Adrian. The site is so well preserved it’s easy to imagine the grandeur of this city that once was and the history of the site really comes alive.

A tour is a great option for visiting Jerash from Amman. There are a number of great day trips from Amman to Jerash, like this one – check prices now!

Book your tour to Jerash now

Jordan itinerary tip:  remember to bring sunscreen and water. The sites, especially Jerash, are vast and exposed to the blazing Jordanian sunshine .

On the border of Jordan, Israel, Palestine and Syria,   the ancient city of Umm Qais has sweeping views over the Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights. Originally known as the Decapolis city of Gadara, the present day Umm Quais represents the ruins of a Roman town built on an old Ottoman village. The ruins, while much less well preserved than Jerash, include a theatre, the main street and buildings once occupied by shops, temples and houses. Umm Qais is also touted as the site of a miracle where, according to the Bible, Jesus cast demons from men to pigs.

Jordan itinerary tip: Driving north to Umm Qais you will approach the border of Syria and Jordan and this means frequent checkpoints along the road. We were stopped at multiple checkpoints, where the police were very friendly and simply checked the car, our documents and my driving licence.

Jordan itinerary tip:  We enjoyed a delicious fattoush lunch (our favourite Jordanian salad) in the Resthouse Restaurant located within the ruins and both the food and the views of the surrounding countryside were incredible.

3 | Petra 

The quickest route from Amman to Petra is via Route 15 and the journey takes around 3 hours. Umm Ar-Rasas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its spectacular, perfectly preserved mosaic (the largest in Jordan) is an unmissable stop along the way.

The site hosts extensive Roman, Byzantine, and early Muslim ruins as well as the mosaic floor in the Church of Saint Stephen. The mosaic depicts the major cities of ancient Jordan as well as the hunting and fishing techniques of ancient times.

How long to stay in Petra?

This is a really common question we get as planning time at Petra can be tricky. Plan to spend at least two nights, ideally three, at Petra. Petra is a huge place with lots to see within the ancient site itself and outside. Exploring the site itself will take at least two visits ( early morning and evening) and we highly recommend going to Petra by night in addition to this. We stayed in the Marriot Petra which overlooks and visited the site 5 times over two days, two mornings, two evenings and Petra by night.

Jordan Itinerary tip: try to avoid being in Petra during the hottest part of the day. Hiking around during these temperatures is really hard so it’s best to chill back at your hotel for a few hours and visit during the cooler evening hours.

Where to stay in Petra

• Marriott Petra – We stayed at this fantastic hotel located just a few minutes drive from Petra and loved the panoramic views across the Petra Mountains. Our highlight of the stay was a traditional Jordanian meal served in a Bedouin tent overlooking the Petra Mountains – our meal was served over an incredible sunset accompanied by traditional Bedouin music – Check hotel prices here!
• Mövenpick Resort Petra – Located right at the entrance to Petra, the Movenpick Resort is an excellent choice for those without their own transport and boasts good rooms and an impressive breakfast spread – Check hotel prices here!
• Candles Hotel – a great budget friendly option just a few hundred metres from the entrance to Petra – Check hotel prices here!

Click here for the best Petra Hotel Prices

What to see in Petra

In addition to exploring Petra during the day we highly recommend Petra by night , a candlelit visit to the Treasury of Petra, was one of our favourite events and only runs on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. We visited Petra on four occasions: two sunrise hikes, a daytime visit and our evening at Petra by night. Little Petra , a much smaller and quieter version of the main Petra site, is also worth a visit.

• Check out our Petra by Night experience here

Jordan Itinerary tip: A visit to Petra is as stunning as it is exhausting. Vigorous hikes in unrelenting heat require lots of water and sunscreen and be sure you bring your hiking boots as the terrain can be rough at times.

4 | Wadi Rum 

Having experienced one of the New 7 Wonders of the World at Petra it’s time to experience the aptly named Valley of the Moon, otherwise known as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wadi Rum. Spending the night in a Wadi Rum desert camp is truly a once in lifetime experience and exploring the desert in a 4×4 during the daylight hours brings the magnificent landscape to life.

How Long to Stay in Wadi Rum

One night is enough time to explore the desert and experience Wadi Rum

Where to stay at Wadi Rum 

• Wadi Rum Luxury Night Camp:  if you want to experience the harsh desert conditions of Wadi Rum while still enjoying the luxury of beautiful tents and comfortable beds then this is the camp for you! For an extra special Wadi Rum experience book the Full of Stars tent and watch the stars sparkle from your bed – Check latest prices here
• Salman Zwaidh Camp:  for a more traditional camping experience this   authentic Bedouin camp lies within the protected area of Wadi Rum and is excellent value for money – Check latest prices here

Click here for the best Wadi Rum Hotel Prices

What to see Wadi Rum

• Lawrence’s Spring and the ruins of Lawrence’s House
• The Rock bridges/arches
• Khazali and Burrah Canyon
• Ancient rock drawings

5 | Aqaba

Jordan’s only coastal city, Aqaba is the perfect access point to the diving and snorkelling of the Red Sea. We skipped Aqaba as we weren’t planning on indulging in any diving or snorkelling but it’s one to add to your itinerary if you’re a fan!

How Long to Stay in Aqaba

We recommend 2 nights in Aqaba, giving enough time to explore the area and rest before the trip to the Dead Sea

Where to stay in Aqaba

• Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea: luxury 5 star hotel on the Red Sea with a private beach and a maze of pools – Check latest prices here!
• Costa Marina Hotel and Suites:  budget friendly and the perfect clean and modern base for an Aqaba diving trip – Check latest prices here!

Click here for the best Aqaba Hotel Prices

6 | The King’s High Way

The 280km King’s Highway is one of the Middle East’s most scenic drives and the winding road takes visitors through the ancient trade route which once connected vast amounts of the Middle East. It’s known as the longer and more scenic route between Amman and Petra. There is lots to see on the King’s Highway and we recommend splitting the journey and spending the night at the Dana Biosphere Reserve to indulge in some hikes in the incredibly beautiful surroundings.

Jordan itinerary tip:  we choose to incorporate the King’s Highway into our drive north to the Dead Sea. If you prefer, you can drive the King’s Highway en route from Amman to Petra.

Where to stay on the King’s Highway

• Dana Guesthouse:  an excellent option with cosy and clean rooms and excellent views, the guesthouse is located within the Dana Reserve – Check latest prices here!
• Dana Moon Hotel:  another great choice within the Dana Reserve, the hotel is well maintained, clean and reasonably priced – Check latest prices here!

Click here for the best Dana Hotel Prices

What to see on the King’s Highway

Day 1:  Aqaba to the Dana Biosphere Reserve

• Shobak Castle: a 12th Century Crusader Castle perched on the side of a rocky mountain in barren surroundings
• Dana Biosphere Reserve:  Jordan’s largest nature reserve sits along the face of the Great Rift Valley and boasts spectacular landscapes and hikes. Check out Dana Village, a stone village occupied since 4,000BC

Day 2:  Dana Biosphere Reserve to the Dead Sea

• Kerak Castle: t he largest and most well preserved of the Crusader Castles. The 12th Century Castle is perched atop a hilltop in the town of Kerak
• Wadi Mujib:  a spectacular river canyon known as Jordan’s Grand Canyon. The river enters the Dead Sea over 400 metres below sea level and Moses is believed to have once walked through
• Madaba Map: an incredible mosaic map of the Middle East created in the 6th Century located in the early Byzantine church of Saint George in the town of Madaba

7 | The Dead Sea

Swimming in the Dead Sea, Earth’s lowest elevation point, is a bucketlist moment in any Jordan itinerary. It’s aptly named the Dead Sea as the water is devoid of life and, with salt levels 4 times higher than the rest of the world’s oceans, it’s a case of floating rather than swimming! The water contains 35 minerals and these, together with the rich mud on its shoreline, make it a spa treat for the skin.

Jordan Itinerary tip: only float on your back and don’t try to swim in the Dead Sea, wear beach shoes to protect your feet from the rocks and don’t shave before entering the water as the salt will sting!

How Long to Spend at the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is a great place to kick back and relax a little after a hectic trip around Jordan. While one night is enough to experience it, we recommend two nights at the Marriott Dead Sea Resort for some great relaxation!

Where to stay at the Dead Sea

• Marriott Dead Sea Resort:  on the shores of the Dead Sea we loved this resort style hotel where we had direct access to the Dead Sea. Our highlights were the fantastic evening happy hour, the views from our balcony and the resorts swimming pools – Check latest prices here!
• Crowne Plaza Jordan Dead Sea Resort and Spa:   another great option with direct access to the Dead Sea, the Crowne Plaza is the must budget friendly of the luxury options lining the Dead Sea – Check latest prices here!

Click here for the best Dead Sea Resort Prices

8 | Day trip to Mount Nebo and the Baptism Site of Jordan

Mount Nebo is, according to ancient tradition, the place from which Moses saw the Promised Land before he died and, at 700 metres above sea level, the views of the Holy Land and the Jordan Valley are spectacular. It’s the reported death and burial site of Moses and the church with the mosaic is a highlight of a visit.

The Baptism Site, Bethany Beyond the Jordan, is a relatively recent addition to the UNESCO World Heritage List and is considered to be the original location of the Baptism of Jesus and the site where John the Baptist resided. It’s surreal being beside the narrow waters separating Jordan and Israel and it’s common to see baptisms taking place on the Israel side of the site.

9 | Return to Amman

After leaving the Dead Sea we made our way back to Jordan where we were departing from the Queen Alia International Airport. If you have some extra time, Quseir Amra is an excellent stop about 70 minutes east of Amman. The well-preserved 8th Century desert castle built as a royal desert oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its incredible frescoes.

20 thoughts on “The Ultimate Jordan Itinerary with map (2023)”

What car rental company did you use??

Hi Zak, we used RentalCars.com We chose Hertz or Avis as they had a good price.

This was amazing! I will be utilizing this itinerary. I’m headed there next week as a solo-er and want to rent a car and take in the sites. Thank you all much! Everything on your list is where I desire to go.

Thanks! Have a great trip!

Excluding the hikes, which parts of this itinerary will involve a fair bit of walking which my 65-year old Dad will find difficult to do? He can easily walk 3-4 kms a day? Thanks in advance.

There’s a decent amount of walking in Petra but I believe those in need can utilise a horse and cart between the entrance and the Treasury although it may be at an additional cost.

I don’t remember any other places where excessive walking was required. In Wadi Rum for example, a jeep transported us around and we could walk as little or as far as we liked.

We are wanting to rent a car and road trip Jordan as well. I was just wondering if most of the hotels you stayed at charge extra for parking, or if there is a free lot included?

We didn’t pay for parking at any of our hotels, it was all complementary.

Awesome itinerary. Was it eight days long or were you there longer?

Hi Sandara, we spent 10 days in Jordan

Hello and thanks for your articles, they’re really helpful!

I’m gonna go to Jordan in September and can’t find any information about the parking spots. Are they secured? How did you do in-between hotels, did you travel and left the car with luggage in the booth? I’m worried that we get our things stolen and want to be sure 🙂

Thanks for your answer.

Hi Marie-Justine

Parking was easily available – there were car parks at hotels and tourist spots. We didn’t have anything valuable in the car (our cameras were always with us) but we’d no issue with security. We’ve had our car broken into twice (in the city we live in!) so we never leave our valuables in the car anymore no matter how secure it seems!

Looks like an amazing trip! How much would you recommend as a budget for a similar trip?

It wasn’t expensive – hotels were reasonable and fuel and car rental was cheap. I’m pretty sure we spent less than 100 usd a day and we stayed at lovely hotels.

great plan. have a doubt. though we rent a car for a week, during the three days stay in Petra is there a need for a car. or is it to be just parked in the hotel as most of the places will be covered by trekking

We used the car to drive to Little Petra but mostly parked at our hotel when we were there.

Hi there, Did you rent a 4×4 for the whole trip? It seems that most of the sites are reachable with basic cars, not sure about wadi rum though.

We had a standard car. Our only 4×4 was in wadi rum where someone drove us through the desert.

Great blog, got loads of ideas for my trip next month.

I’d like to camp in Wadi Rum but will only have a normal car. Im assuming the tours bring you around in 4x4s. How do you get to the campsites? Do they pick you up on the edge of the desert or how does it work?

Thanks, greetings from Ireland,

Hi Felix, we only had a normal car too. Everyone parks in Wadi Rum Village. From there the tours and camps take you into Wadi Rum in 4x4s. There’s no way you’d get in with a normal car, the sand is intense! Love your photography too, have fun in Jordan. It’s a stunning country, the Petra at night tour is a must for photos. We’re Irish too! Let us know if you have any other questions. David

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The Smooth Escape

Nature & adventure travel blog

10-day Jordan itinerary: An unforgettable Jordan road trip

My trip to Jordan, the land of mysterious ruins, red deserts and ancient history, completely exceeded my expectations. The country is often considered one of the best destinations to visit in the Middle East and after spending 10 days in Jordan, I can easily understand what all the hype is about! 

In this post, I’m sharing my 10-day Jordan itinerary that takes you across this beautiful country – from the history-packed capital Amman in the north all the way to the Red Sea coast in the south. Along the way, you’ll get to explore amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Petra and Wadi Rum, visit the lowest point on Earth and discover natural wonders both on land and in the sea.

I’ve also included my tips on where to stay on each of the days and my Jordan itinerary map which gives you an overview of where everything is located. At the end of the post, you can also find my recommendations for what to do if you have more than 10 days in Jordan.

Ready to start planning your itinerary for Jordan?

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

Taking a Jordan road trip or a guided tour

This itinerary is designed to be a self-drive itinerary, so I recommend getting a rental car and embarking on a Jordan road trip. Since some of Jordan’s top attractions (like the Dead Sea or Wadi Rum) are located in relatively remote areas that are difficult to reach by public transport, the best way to travel around is by car.

Driving in Jordan was a lot easier than I expected. The roads are in pretty good condition, easy to navigate and uncrowded (outside of Amman). 

Read my detailed guide to driving in Jordan for everything you need to know for a safe and fun driving experience.

Alternatively, if you don’t feel like driving yourself, you can still have a wonderful time in Jordan by taking guided tours. Most tours depart from Amman (the capital) or Aqaba (a city on the Red Sea coast). 

Here are some tours that allow you to just sit back, relax and let somebody else do all the driving for you:

• A 9-day tour from Amman that takes you all around Jordan and covers all the destinations I’ve included in this post (except for the Wadi Mujib canyon)
• A 3-day tour from Amman covering Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and Aqaba

Tip: Before traveling to Jordan, buy yourself the Jordan Pass . It’s an official ‘ticket’ intended for tourists and covers both your Jordan visa fee and entry tickets to all the top attractions (e.g. Petra and Wadi Rum).

10-day Jordan itinerary: The perfect Jordan road trip route

Day 1: arrive in amman.

Most people arrive in Jordan by flying into Queen Alia International Airport near Amman. Therefore, this will be the starting point of this 10-day Jordan itinerary. Alternatively, you could also fly to Aqaba and simply follow the itinerary in reverse.

You can either rent a car at the airport right away or do it the next morning in Amman. To get from the airport to the city, which is about 30 km (19 mi) away, you’ll have the option to take a bus, taxi or a private transfer .

On the first day, I recommend taking it easy. Take your time to recover from jet lag, withdraw some local currency and buy a local sim card so you can have mobile data throughout your Jordan trip. You’ll have more time to explore all the best attractions of Amman at the end of your trip.

For dinner, head to the buzzing Rainbow Street in downtown Amman. Here you’ll find a variety of cool coffee shops, bars and restaurants. I recommend checking out Cozy Casa, Cantaloupe Gastro Pub and Mijana.

Accommodation

MID-RANGE: Hotel Philosophy A fabulous boutique hotel with vibrant artsy design and a great restaurant, located just a short walk from Rainbow Street.

LUXURY: Hilton Amman A brand new 5-star hotel that opened in October 2022. The hotel offers stylish rooms with contemporary design, a gym and a luxurious spa perfect for pampering yourself after the long flight.

Day 2: Visit the Dead Sea

On day 2, pick up your rental car and kick off your Jordan road trip by driving to the Dead Sea, which is just an hour’s drive from Amman. 

The Dead Sea is a saltwater lake situated on the border between Israel (West Bank) and Jordan. What’s so special about this lake is that it sits 430m (1410 ft) below sea level and is therefore the lowest land point on Earth. 

With almost 10 times higher salinity than the oceans, the water in the Dead Sea makes you float effortlessly. It’s such a unique sensation! To bathe in the Dead Sea, you can visit a free public beach or a private beach at one of the 5-star resorts by the sea. I recommend doing both. 

First, head to a public beach just south of Wadi Mujib (I’ve marked the exact location on the map at the end of this post). Here the entire shoreline of the beach is covered with shimmering white salt crystals. If you plan to go into the water, bring water shoes because the crystals are sharp. Also, bring a bottle of water to rinse yourself after floating in the Dead Sea because you’ll have a layer of salt on your skin.

Then check into one of the resorts by the Dead Sea and enjoy their private sandy beaches. The resorts offer their guests free Dead Sea mud, which is known for its many benefits for the skin. So lather yourself up and give your body a healing treatment.

There’s only a handful of accommodation options by the Dead Sea and almost all of them are 5-star hotels. I highly recommend splurging on this one night and staying by the Dead Sea!

LUXURY: Hilton Dead Sea Resort This is where we stayed. From the fantastic pool areas and the sunset views over the Dead Sea to the amazing restaurants and incredibly kind staff, everything about our stay here was wonderful!

LUXURY: Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea The most famous resort in the area. With its Babylon-inspired design, 9 different pools, upscale amenities and world-class service, this hotel offers an exceptional level of luxury.

Day 3: Explore Wadi Mujib & drive to Wadi Musa

Start the third day of your Jordan itinerary by heading to the Wadi Mujib Adventure Center and getting ready for an epic canyoning experience. 

Canyoning in the Wadi Mujib river gorge was one of the things I was looking forward to the most on my Jordan trip. Unfortunately, when we arrived at the visitor center, we found out the gorge was closed due to some collapsed rocks, so I never got to do it. (The problem with the fallen rocks has been resolved and the gorge is open for visitors again.)

There are several trails to choose from at Wadi Mujib but the most popular one is the Siq Trail, which meanders along the river bed between towering sandstone cliffs. The trek through the gorge is an exhilarating experience that involves hiking, swimming through pools of water and pulling yourself up rocks using ropes. At the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a view of a waterfall.

Since this is a highly popular attraction, arrive early in the morning. Otherwise, the site might reach its capacity limits and you might not get in.

After visiting Wadi Mujib, continue your Jordan road trip by driving along the scenic King’s Highway (road 35) to Wadi Musa. This is the gateway town to the world-famous Lost City of Petra, which you will be exploring over the next two days.

Spend the next three nights in Wadi Musa.

MID-RANGE: Petra Plaza Hotel A small cozy hotel with exceptionally friendly staff and fantastic breakfast, located in the center of Wadi Musa.

LUXURY: Mövenpick Resort Petra A fabulous 5-star hotel situated just a few steps from Petra Visitor Center. It features an outdoor pool, a fitness room and a rooftop garden terrace with views over the hills of Petra.

Day 4 & 5: Discover the wonders of Petra

No trip to Jordan is complete without visiting the ancient city of Petra, the most famous landmark in the country. This fascinating archaeological site is located right next to the town of Wadi Musa and the entrance ticket is included in the Jordan Pass.

Even if you don’t plan to rent a car for your Jordan trip, you can still easily and conveniently visit Petra, since there are many different tour options available from Amman.

Not only is Petra a UNESCO World Heritage Site but it has also been chosen as one of the 7 New Wonders of the World, so including it in this 10 day Jordan itinerary was a no-brainer. It is hands down one of the coolest archaeological sites I’ve ever been to and is worth all the hype!

From the majestic awe-inspiring ruins carved into the rocks to the incredible slot canyon ‘Siq’ and the colorful sandstone cliffs, this ancient Nabataean city has a lot to offer. With its beautiful views and an abundance of cool photo spots, it’s easily one of the most Instagrammable places in Jordan .

Most people come to Petra for just one day but I highly recommend spending two days here since the site is massive. We walked around 25 km (15 mi) on each of the days in Petra – there’s just so much to see! Two days gives you enough time to explore both the famous monuments like the Treasury and the Monastery but also discover some hidden gems, like the Al Khubtha trail. 

Every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evening, you can attend the Petra by Night event. There you can see the Treasury illuminated by hundreds of candles and listen to live music played by locals. 

I had mixed feelings about Petra by Night though. While the candlelit ruins looked magical, the ‘performance’ was very underwhelming. However, some people claim that Petra by Night was the highlight of their Jordan vacation, so perhaps we just got unlucky. 

Spend another two nights at Petra Plaza Hotel or Mövenpick Resort Petra (see Day 3 for more details).

Day 6: Explore the Wadi Rum desert

After two days in Petra, it’s time to move on to visit another one of Jordan’s top attractions – the magnificent desert of Wadi Rum. 

With its giant red sand dunes, sandstone mountains and rock formations, this place looks like it’s from another planet. It’s easy to see why it was chosen as the filming location for many famous movies such as The Martian, Dune and Star Wars, to name a few.

The most common way to experience the magic of Wadi Rum is to take a jeep tour and spend a night in a Bedouin-style desert camp. The jeep tour, which can usually be arranged by your camp, takes you to all the main attractions, such as rock arches, viewpoints, ancient petroglyphs and large dunes where you can try sandboarding.

Make sure to also find a good spot to watch the sunset and enjoy the spectacular view as the sun turns the desert vivid orange.

For more tips on visiting Wadi Rum and a map with all the main attractions in the desert, check out my detailed post on the 10 best things to do in Wadi Rum .

The Wadi Rum desert camps range from ultra-cheap ones with very simple tents to upscale camps with luxurious glamping domes.

MID-RANGE: Sand Star Camp This is where we stayed and it was really good value for money. Our tent was clean, warm and comfy, the food was delicious and the location of the camp was great. The only downside was that the guide on our jeep tour didn’t explain much about the places we visited.

LUXURY: Memories Aicha Luxury Camp This is the most famous and the most luxurious place to stay in Wadi Rum. Their lavish panoramic domes, the lounge area and the entire campsite look absolutely breathtaking. It’s like a Mars colony!

Day 7 & 8: Relax in Aqaba by the Red Sea

Continue your Jordan itinerary by driving to Aqaba, which is about an hour away. Located on the coast of the Red Sea, this city is known for its beach resorts and is a fantastic destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.

It is not recommended to wear a bikini on public beaches in Aqaba. Therefore, if you want to bask in the sun, I suggest you stay in a resort that has a private beach or buy a day pass to one of the beach clubs.

We visited Berenice Beach Club, which is a great and affordable place to spend a relaxing day by the sea. Besides their own private beach area, they have several pools, sun beds, a restaurant and snorkeling gear for rent.

On our second day in Aqaba, we went scuba diving with Deep Blue Dive Center and had the most amazing time exploring the underwater world of the Red Sea. During our two dives, we saw beautiful coral pinnacles and lots of colorful marine life such as an octopus, a moray eel, a boxfish, lionfish etc. as well as a sunken tank, a sunken plane and a large shipwreck!

It was definitely one of the highlights of this 10-day Jordan itinerary. They also offer snorkeling tours if you’re not into scuba diving.

Those that don’t want to get in the water but still want to see the wonderful marine life have the opportunity to take this 2-hour glass-bottom boat tour instead.

Spend the next two nights in Aqaba.

MID-RANGE: Laverda Hotel This little boutique hotel offers cozy, tastefully decorated rooms with sea views and is situated in the center of the city, near all the shops and restaurants.

LUXURY: Kempinski Hotel Aqaba A modern 5-star beachfront resort with an outdoor pool, wellness center, a private sandy beach and a central location in Aqaba.

Day 9: Return to Amman

On the 9th day of your Jordan road trip, drive all the way back to Amman. It’s a 330 km (205 mi) journey and should take a little over 4 hours. If you start driving early enough, you’ll have plenty of time to do some sightseeing in Amman. 

The most famous attraction in the city is Amman Citadel. This archaeological site is home to various ancient ruins and the entry is included in the Jordan Pass. It sits on the highest hill in Amman and offers panoramic views of the city around it. Come here at sunset for the best views.

Other sights you might want to visit are King Abdullah I Mosque and the Roman Amphitheater.

For lunch or dinner, head to the highly popular restaurant Hashem. It’s a super affordable local eatery selling authentic Middle Eastern cuisine such as falafels, hummus, fava bean dip, mint tea and more.

Spend your last night in the same place as the first night – in Hotel Philosophy or Hilton Amman (see Day 1 for more details).

Day 10: Fly out

It’s time to wrap up your Jordan trip. Depending on when your flight departs, you might be able to squeeze in a few more activities. You could visit some attractions in Amman that you didn’t have time for the day before or you could take a day trip to Jerash , a sprawling complex of ancient Roman ruins.

Jerash is an hour’s drive from Amman and features well-preserved colonnaded streets, amphitheaters, temples and monumental arches. The entrance ticket is included in the Jordan Pass.

Jordan itinerary map

On the map below, you can see the exact driving routes and all the points of interest on this Jordan 10-day itinerary. I’ve marked the stops of each of the days with different colors so you can have an easy overview. Click on the icon in the top left corner of the map for more details.

Have more than 10 days in Jordan?

If you’re lucky to have more than 10 days in Jordan and want to add more activities to your itinerary, take a look at the following places to visit and things to do:

• Visit Dana Biosphere Reserve – the largest nature reserve in Jordan and an area known for its hiking trails and wildlife  
• Take a Desert Castles tour – get off the beaten path on this 6-hour tour to eastern Jordan and the ancient Umayyad desert castles
• Relax at Ma’In Hot Springs – enjoy the gorgeous thermal waterfall and natural hot springs at the 5-star Ma’In Hot Springs resort
• Visit Mount Nebo – a mountain with a religious significance; it’s said to be the place where Moses saw the Promised Land before he died
• Explore Little Petra – a site similar to Petra but way smaller and less crowded

10-day itinerary for Jordan: Final thoughts

I hope you found this post useful for planning your own Jordan itinerary and that it gave you an idea of what this wonderful country has to offer. I thoroughly enjoyed our 10 days in Jordan and I think everyone should add this amazing country to their bucket list!

If you have any questions about the itinerary or can recommend other cool places to visit in Jordan, let me know in the comments below.

Pin this 10-day Jordan itinerary!

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Top Tips For Visiting Petra, Jordan: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Thinking of visiting Petra, Jordan? From how to get there, to ticket prices and the best time to visit, this guide will help you plan your trip to Petra. 

From what to wear and what to see, to how to get there and how much it costs, find out all the answers in this ultimate travel guide to Petra.

I visited the ancient ruins of Petra last month, and before I left the UK I found myself in a Google frenzy.

I was searching all sorts of things…

What should women to wear in Jordan?

How hot is it in Petra?

Do I need to cover my head?

Can I buy food once I’m inside Petra?

Is there water for sale?

How to get to Petra?

How much is the Petra entry fee?

How long does it take to tour the site?

Is it safe to travel to Petra in Jordan?

So many questions! Surprisingly I couldn’t find a Jordan travel blog with all the answers!

I thought it’d be helpful to impart some of my newfound knowledge for any of you who are planning on visiting Petra soon.

How much is the Petra entrance fee (2023)?

As of 2023,  a one-day ticket to visit Petra costs 50 JD (£57 / 70 USD). As there is so much to see, many people opt to visit for multiple days. A two-day ticket costs 55 JD and three-day ticket costs 60 JD.

Children under 12 enter free. Petra By Night tickets cost 17 JD (more info on that below). Remember to take your passport in order to purchase your ticket.

Oh, and if you’re a resident of Jordan it’s super cheap… just 1 JD!

How much does it cost for a guided one day tour of Petra?

Usually, private tour guides for the main trail cost 50 JD. You can organise everything at the visitor centre when you arrive. If you want to plan something in advance, with transport and a tour guide, there are plenty of Petra day tours you can book to travel to the site with.

For example, I visited with Abraham Tours who were very friendly and efficient. Find out more about my experience here .

What time does Petra open and close?

Petra’s Visitor Centre is open each day from 6am to 6pm during the summer and 6am to 4pm in the winter. This is the place to buy Petra tickets, arrange a guide or pick up a Petra map, and what I’d consider to be the Petra opening hours.

However, there doesn’t seem to be an official ‘closing time’, but there are instructions at the front gate saying you need to leave the site by 7pm in summer and 5pm in winter, unless you’ve got a ticket for Petra By Night. 

When is the best time to visit Petra?

I’d recommend getting to the site as early as possible. We arrived at 8am and avoided lots of the big tour groups, making for a more pleasant experience.

It can get extremely hot during the day so you’ll want to prioritise the bigger treks in the morning and late afternoon. Also, avoid rainy days as the valley is prone to flooding.

How much is a horse and carriage, donkey or camel in Petra?

You actually get a horse ride included in your ticket at the entrance, but it’s often thought of as a bit of a scam! The owners will ask for costly tips, so if in doubt agree the final fee before you accept the ride, or avoid altogether.

A horse and carriage from the entrance to the Treasury costs 20 JD (two ways) and 40 JD to get to and from the main basin area.

As there are lots of trails, many of them steep with numerous steps, many people choose to travel by donkey. As camels and horses can’t travel up steps, and there is much debate as to how well any of the animals are kept, it’s best to walk unless you’re not very mobile.

How long does it take to walk to The Treasury?

At a reasonable pace, it’ll take you around 30 minutes to walk from the entrance, along The Siq, to The Treasury.

How long does it take to get to The Monastery?

At a reasonable pace, it takes around 1 hour 30 minutes from the basin area (just beyond The Treasury) to reach The Monastery. There are 800 rock cut steps to get up there. The thing to remember about Petra, is that you’ll be on your feet all day, so wear comfy shoes.

What are the key sites I have to see on my first visit to Petra?

The Siq, The Treasury, The Monastery, High Place of Sacrifice and the Royal Tombs. It’s too much to see in a day but if you have the chance to stay a few, then that’s the dream itinerary!

What should a woman wear to visit Petra?

While it may be warm, most women were still respectful of the Jordanian culture and chose to cover up. I wore a long skirt with leggings, my Converse trailers, a T-shirt and cardigan.

I took a scarf too. I’d recommend sturdy trainers or walking boots rather than sandals or flip-flops. Here’s some inspiration…

I actually wrote a post to help you pack for Petra:  What Clothes Women Should Pack To Visit Jordan

What should a man wear to visit petra.

Again, most men were in trousers rather than shorts, with a T-shirt and sturdy trainers or walking boots. Here’s some inspiration…

READ MORE: What To Wear In Jordan – A Men’s Packing Guide

How to get to petra, jordan.

Want to know how to get to Petra, Jordan? Many visit Petra as part of an organised tour – but that’s not the only way! There is the option of public transport from Amman and Aqaba, or you can hire a car and drive.

Driving from Amman to Petra takes about three hours, or it’s just under two hours from Aqaba.

If you’re looking for public transport to Petra,  JETT Bus leaves from Abdali station in Amman at 6.30am and arrives to Petra around 10.30an. It then returns to the city at 5pm.

Or from Aqaba, public buses leave from the central market and travel to Petra. More info here .

You can book a group tour to Petra from Amman here , from Eilat here or Jerusalem here . There are also some from Tel Aviv, Israel if you’re looking at visiting Petra from there. 

How much time do I need if I’m visiting Petra for the first time?

How long is a piece of string?! I only had around 6 hours at Petra, but could have easily spent several days. We raced around the site, keen to pack as much in as possible, but it would have been nice to explore at a leisurely pace.

I’d opt for two or three days, and stay at a hotel nearby so you can enter the site early in the morning.

READ MORE: A Tour Of Petra, Jordan

What trails are there in petra and how long do they take.

I could write all this info out, but as I snapped this handy pic at the entrance, I’ll let that to the talking. 

What is Petra By Night?

Every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday there’s magical light show at Petra, with 1500 candles lighting the route to along The Siq to The Treasury.

Along with the beautiful views, there are tales from local Bedouin people and live music.

The experience begins at 8.30pm from Petra Visitor Centre and finishes at 10.30pm. Tickets cost 17 JD. You can find out more here: Petra By Night .

If you want to book in advance for Petra by Night,  you can book here. 

  A post shared by Visit Jordan (@visitjordan) on Sep 5, 2016 at 3:20pm PDT

What should I bring to Petra?

• Big bottle of water
• Scarf   

How safe is Petra?  

I’d read a few blogs before travelling, and had a pretty mixed impression on safety at Petra. I was with my boyfriend so didn’t feel nervous, and saw plenty of solo female travellers exploring the site.

I think the biggest dangers are to do with being scammed and ripped off, so as long as you know what price you’re aiming for when you’re haggling, you should be fine!

There are parts where the ground is quite even and rocks are crumbling, so be sure to wear sensible shoes and look where you’re going.

Where should I stay in Petra?

Camping isn’t permitted within the site, so the best option is to book a hotel or camping experience nearby. Have a search, or scroll down for my suggestions…

Luxury – £70+ per night

Movenpick Resort Petra  – If you’re wondering where to stay in Petra, you can’t get any close to the site than this!

Just two-minutes walk from the entrance, this 5-star hotel is perfect for those wanting to relax in style after a busy day exploring. There are several restaurants, a swimming pool and all the other amenities you could possibly need!

Bed and breakfast: 126 JD / £143 / 177 USD.  Check latest prices here.

Petra Marriott Hotel – Another 5-star hotel in a stunning location, this smart hotel has an outdoor pool and a restaurant, plus comfortable stylish rooms, some with Jacuzzis. Check latest prices here.

Hayat Zaman Hotel & Resort – A 5-star hotel in a traditional stone style, set in the hills with a pool and spectacular views, this is another great option for staying near Petra. Rooms start around £70 so it’s great value too. Check latest prices here.

The Old Village Hotel & Resort – This stone hotel is one of the most charming places to stay, and is just over a mile from the entrance to Petra. There’s a gorgeous indoor pool, terrace with beautiful views and a restaurant on site. Check latest prices here.

Mid-Range – Between £30 and £70 per night 

  P Quattro Relax Hotel  – A 17-minute walk to Petra, this is a comfortable mid-range hotel with a buffet breakfast, free wifi and an indoor pool.

Bed and breakfast: 50 JD / £57 / 70 USD.  Check latest prices here.

Petra Sella Hotel – Really convenient for visiting Petra, this hotel is around 10 minutes walk to the entrance. There’s free WiFi, AC and views of the mountains, plus it’s close to the town too. Check latest prices here.

Budget – under £30 per night

Seven Wonders Bedouin Camp  – This camp is an incredible place to stay out in the desert, yet only 15 minutes drive to Petra’s entrance. The traditional Bedouin tents are warm and comfortable, and the location is truly magical!

Bed and breakfast: 20 JD / £22 / 28 USD  

Rocky Mountain Hotel – Located in the centre of Wadi Musa (not to be confused with Wadi Rum!) this Petra guest house has free WiFi, AC and a rooftop terrace with spectacular views of the mountains. They also have a free shuttle twice a day to and from Petra which is a great bonus! Check latest prices here.

I’d also recommend checking out some of the options on Airbnb – lots of them are great if you’re travelling as a group or family, are on a budget or don’t want to eat out all the time. I found a few options that would be perfect for groups, including this one that sleeps 16+ people. There are also several cosy apartments that would be ideal for couples. You can search here…

What can I buy at Petra?

There are a number of stalls within the site selling water, tea, Turkish coffee, scarves, jewellery, antique coins and other nic-nacs. We bought a lovely scarf for 5 JD (a price we negotiated). We also had a free cup of tea thrown in!

Is there Wi-Fi at Petra?

You’ll find Zain free Wi-Fi points around Jordan, and my phone picked it up next to the Visitor Centre at Petra.

Once out in the site, a few small stalls and café claimed to have Wi-Fi but I didn’t test it out. It was nice not to be looking at my phone all day!

And finally… Are there toilets at Petra?

Yes, of course! Don’t panic if you get caught short. There are toilets around the site, but they’re not everywhere, so pick up a map at the start and plan your route.

There are plenty by the entrance and I found one by The Monastery, which was a makeshift portaloo. It had toilet paper and a bowl outside to leave a small tip for the pleasure!

Read more: 21 Interesting Facts About Petra, Jordan Read more: A tour of Petra, Jordan Read more: What clothes to wear in Jordan

Enjoyed this Jordan travel blog all about visiting Petra? Pin it…

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

36 thoughts on “Top Tips For Visiting Petra, Jordan: The Ultimate Travel Guide”

I appreciate this post! I am going at the end of the month and this is just the info I needed and I am more excited now about staying the camp. Happy Travels

Thank you! It is such a unique experience!

Were you able to sign up for ‘Petra by night’ while on your tour with Abraham tours? We”ll be doing an abraham tour of Petra/Wadi Rum. Did you get to shower? was there running water to brush teeth and stuff….I wish I got more information as to what to expect with Abraham Tours…

Hey Andee! There was a shower with running water at the camp we stayed in near to Petra. It was fine for brushing teeth and washing faces, but as it was chilly outside I chose not to shower that evening! Some people did though – hope that helps. I didn’t sign up for the night time visit to Petra but it may be something you can organise directly with Abraham. It’s an amazing experience so enjoy it!

It literally looks like something out of Aladdin!! So magical!

It really is one of the most incredible places I’ve ever been. It’s a tricky one to plan though so hopefully this will help a few people out 🙂

Wow Jordan was never on my radar, but this guide got me interested in it. Thanks for the great and full guide.

Thanks so much! It really is a proper bucket list place! I loved it.

Thank you so much for all the tips Chloe, this is so useful! Petra is definitely on my bucket list. Did you feel safe while traveling in Jordan? P.S. thanks also for writing a small section on how to dress – I’ve seen pictures of girls wearing totally inappropriate stuff uhh.

Thanks so much! Glad you found it useful. I’m working on a whole feature on What to Wear in Jordan for that reason precisely. I was shocked at how disrespectful people were of the culture, just to get that perfect Instagram shot. So bad!

The image of Seven Wonders Bedouin camp is so beautiful! Are they candles that are lit on the cliffs behind? Definitely need to visit Jordan one day!

Thank you Lisa – it was such a wonderful experience. They looked like candles but I think they were large fairy lights as it’d be hard to clamber up to the top to light candles! It’s well worth a trip – totally magical experience and you’d love the photography opportunities there.

I’ve always wanted to visit the Treasury ever since watching Indiana Jones haha, it looks so awesome!!

Ahhh it is soooo amazing! I knew it would be special but it went beyond expectations. Hope you get the chance to visit one day 🙂

What stunning photos! I play Uncharted and this absolutely reminds me of that. I’d love to visit Petra but I’ve always been reluctant to plan because it’s so meticulous! This is a really cool straightforward guide, though!

Thank you so much! I hoped it would cut the jargon and give people a simple to follow guide. I found a lot of the info around very very confusing! Hope you get the chance to visit one day – so worth it, I promise!!

Did you get a camel or donkey ? If so how much should we pay? with the animals take us the whole trip? is there water or food for the animals or do we bring it with us?

Hi Sarah, we paid 15 JD for two donkeys up the Al-Kubtha trail (the viewpoint overlooking The Treasury). The camels don’t go up steps so I think you’d just ride those down on the main paths. Assuming they’re a similar price! You don’t need to worry about food or water for the animals as far as I know their owners take care of everything. I was a little unsure of their welfare generally, and if you have time/energy I’d suggest walking the routes. We were in a hurry to get to the viewpoint so took a donkey but I wasn’t sure about it all! Have an amazing time though, Petra is incredible!

Unless you cannot walk, don’t even consider the ‘free’ ride to the Treasury – it was much slower than walking and then we were hassled to book a return time, which limited us. But we had a great day!

Best guide I’ve read on Petra so far, and I’ve read many. Only missing the visa info, but this was so good, its ok 😉

Beautiful sights!

So, you can just walk right up to the visitor center and buy a ticket to get in?

Hey Tim – yep buy them on the day if you want!

The culture of Jordan is quite interesting to learn and explore. This is the type of place that i love to travel with. Keep us updated.

Thank you for such informative blog. It is really very useful… Hope to have a grt time at Petra in October.

Thanks so much! I hope you have a wonderful time!

Very informative. We plan to travel end December. Wondering if two days would be sufficient as days are quite short and one has to get out by 5 pm. What would be timings for the night visit?

Hi Nalin, thanks for your comment. Glad you found the post useful. I can’t find the timings for Petra by night in Dec sadly. I think it’d be enough time though. We only had a day there and rushed to see everything – 2 would have been perfect! Have an amazing time!

Thank you for your great info. Off to Jordan very soon and although easy to get info about most things, everyone else has not mentioned toilets in Petra. Was getting a badge concerned! Now able to go with an easy mind. Thanks so much.

Haha it’s the little things like that which are the difference between whether it’s a comfy and relaxed day or not! Have a wonderful time – it’s SUCH a special place!

As for tickets, you really should mention the Jordan Pass – or did I miss that somewhere? It’s just 70 JD for one day, or 75 for 2 days, it also covers the 40JD visa fee on arrival, and it allows you into dozens of other sites around the country for free (I used it today at the Citadel and Roman amphitheatre in Amman, for example). So it’s a major savings off the ticket price at Petra as long as you purchase it online before you arrive in Jordan. Thanks for the other info!

Great highlights and tips! Thanks for sharing about your experience and tips to seeing Jordan! It’s a magical place.

Thanks for your informative blog on Petra

– ? love from India

What do you recommend doing in Jordan other than Petra. We have three full days. Thanks.

I really enjoyed Amman and Jerash. I didn’t make it to the Dead Sea or to Wadi Rum, but they’d be on my list for next time!

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How to Visit Petra Like a Pro – Guide to Jordan’s Lost City

Last Modified: January 21, 2023 //  by  Anda //   22 Comments

Most people who travel to Jordan want to visit Petra. In fact, I don’t think I’d be wrong in saying that that Petra is the very reason why most people travel to Jordan these days. This alluring city that laid hidden for centuries, has been attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors ever since it was discovered. There is a reason why Petra is one of the world’s most amazing destinations .

Unfortunately, very few of those who flock to the mysterious city of Petra are truly prepared for this visit or know what to expect. So in this post I’ll try to cover all the questions you may have about visiting Petra.

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Petra

What to expect when you visit petra, top sites to visit in petra, where to stay in petra, when is the best time to visit petra, how to reach petra, admission fees and hours of visitation, how much time do you need for visiting petra, what to wear when visiting petra.

Petra was once the thriving capital of the Nabatean Kingdom . Nabateans were the people who inhabited the area until 100AD, when the Romans invaded it and took over Petra.

Because of its location at the crossroads between Arabia, Egypt and Phoenicia, Petra was a major caravan centre during the Roman period. However, in time the city’s importance declined and Petra was ultimately abandoned and forgotten.  Since it wasn’t marked on any modern maps, Petra remained ‘hidden’ to the Western world for more than 500 years.

In the 19th century, a Swiss explorer by the name of Burckhardt discovered the prehistoric city of Petra accidentally. In the last two centuries since its discovery, Petra has seen more visitors than it has seen in its 3000 years of existence!

Petra is a vast conglomerate of elaborate tombs and religious high places half-built and half-carved into red sandstone cliffs. But no matter how much you read about Petra, or see pictures of it, that first glimpse of the lost city of the Nabateans will take you by surprise.

Petra is really big!

The first thing that will grab you when you first visit Petra is its size. Even the tombs and the public buildings that line Petra’s main street look like they were built for giants. Petra is huge, stretching for at least 60 square kilometers through canyons, along river beds and up the mountains.

There are lots of hiking trails in Petra

Most of the sites in Petra are close to the main street and don’t require any special effort to visit. Other sites, like the Monastery , or the viewpoint for the Treasury , that can only be reached by hiking steep trails, with numerous steps.

There are also some sites, like the High Place of Sacrifice , that can only be accessed by going off-road, on unmarked trails. Those trails are almost impossible to follow if you don’t know what to look for. If you are interested in going off-road, I suggest hiring a local guide.

Expect to walk mostly in the sun

There is barely any shade in Petra, so be prepared to do a lot of walking in full sun. This makes hiking in Petra really difficult during the summer months and even in the fall. You get no break from the sun, so wearing a hat or a scarf and lots of sunscreen is a must! Also, drinking lots of water

Petra is packed with working animals

There is an abundance or working animals in Petra that are used for tourist transportation. While they are a source of income for the Bedouins, there is much debate as to how well these animals are kept and cared for. Donkeys and mules haul tourists up 900 steep and eroded steps to the Monastery, horses and camels carry tourists through the city, by pulling carriages and carts.

There seems to be a need for some tourist transportation in Petra. Especially for elderly people who can’t climb up steps or walk long distances. However, we mainly saw young, strong people riding the donkeys.

Some of these animals looked really abused and deprived of food and water. We personally witnessed the whipping of an exhausted donkey that was struggling to hike the steep steps to the Monastery. I would strongly discourage people able to walk from riding these animals!

There are quite a few places to eat and drink in Petra

I don’t think anybody comes to Petra to eat and drink, but it’s good to know that if you want to grab a bite or have a drink, there are several eateries on the site. You’ll see them along the Street of Façades and beyond, but you’ll also receive a free map with your ticket so you can locate them. We brought a few snacks and lots of water, so didn’t try any of these eateries.

Petra is really big, so unless you have several days to explore the site, you should choose some bits to focus on. You can concentrate on the ones along the main pathway towards the centre of Petra past the Street of Façades and the grand Royal Tombs.

The Bab Al Siq and the Obelisk Tomb

Right after you pass the Visitor Centre, you’ll start walking along a wide path known as the Bay Al Siq. There are several monuments and tombs in this area, among which you’ll notice the Obelisk Tomb . The tomb has four pyramidal obelisks, which were funerary symbols of the Nabataeans.

The entrance passage to the hidden city of Petra is via a towering, narrow canyon called  the Siq . The path twists and turns between strangely eroded cliffs for over a kilometer.

Walking the Siq is one of the most pleasant experiences in Petra. The 150 m high emerging walls close to a few meters apart, blocking out sound and light. It’s about the only place in Petra where you’ll enjoy shade.

The ‘Treasury’

At the end of the Siq the path narrows becoming completely dark. As you step out into the sunlight you’ll find yourself in front of the  Khazneh , or the Treasury . That first glimpse of the Treasury through the narrow passage is a sight you’ll never forget.

Carved directly into the cliff, the 40-meter high Treasury was never a treasury, but rather a beautifully ornate tomb which became Petra’s most iconic site.

The Street of Façades

From the Khazneh, the pathway broadens into a wider area lined with large tombs carved into the rock. The area which is known as the Street of Façades , is a cliff face with a cluster of tombs considered to be the oldest ones in Petra.

The Theater

Further down the road is Petra’s spectacular Theater , built by the Nabataeans around the 1st century AD. The Theater which was later enlarged by the Romans, can seat 8,500 people!

The Royal Tombs

After passing the Theater, on the right side of the wadi you’ll notice the great massif of Jebel Al Khubtha. Within its cliffs are carved some of the most impressive burial places in Petra, known collectively as the ‘ Royal Tombs ’. They look particularly impressive in the afternoon light.

The Colonnaded Street

Downhill from the Theatre is the Colonnaded Street , that marks the centre of the Ancient City. 

The street ends at the Roman Gate, built in the 2nd century A.D. Originally, the gate had huge wooden doors and side towers and marked the entrance to the sacred courtyard of the temple.

The Monastery

The hike to the Monastery was the highlight of our visit to Petra. Hidden high in the hills, the Monastery is one of the most spectacular monuments of Petra.

The Monastery (called  Ad Deir  in Arabic) is half-carved, half-built out of rock. The design is very similar to that of the Treasury, but far bigger. The structure was built in the 3rd century BC as a Nabataean tomb.

Hiking to the famous Monastery is quite exhausting, involving climbing almost 900 steep steps! Nonetheless, the hike is really beautiful, allowing bird-eye views of the entire archeological site.

The nearest town to the archeological site of Petra is Wadi Musa (Valley of Moses). The town sits on a very steep hill at the bottom of which is the main entrance to Petra.

There are plenty of hotels in Wadi Musa to choose from, but you should choose a hotel that is near Petra . Prices range from $55 to over $380/night and don’t necessarily reflect the quality or cleanness of the rooms.

We didn’t want to spend a lot of money since Jordan is an expensive country anyway, so we chose an $85/night hotel (Al Rashid). However, despite the good reviews on TripAdvisor, we weren’t happy with it. The hotel was clean, but very old and outdated. If you want a nice hotel room, you’ll probably have to pay over $130/night.

There are several nice hotels in Wadi Musa, like Petra Guest House Hotel , La Maison Hotel , or Petra Boutique Hotel , which are also within 2 miles from the archeological park entrance.

Spring and fall (March to May and September to November) are the best months for a trip to Petra. The days are warm, but the nights are cool. Although temperatures get into the high 20°C during the day, it’s not too hot for hiking.

The summer months in Petra are very hot. In June, July and August temperatures may get as high as 40°C. While you may have Petra all to yourself, hiking in that kind of heat is brutal.

In the winter months (December to February) Jordan experiences more rain and sometimes even snow. Nonetheless, winter is also a great time to visit Petra. The cool temperature is perfect for hiking. 

The best times at the site are in the early mornings, before the crowds arrive, and late afternoons when most tourists already left.

Petra lies about 230 km south of Amman, the capital city of Jordan, and 120 km north of Aqaba, the southernmost city in Jordan. Depending on how you choose to travel to Jordan , there are several ways to reach the archeological site of Petra.

The fastest way to get to Petra from any point in Jordan is to rent a car and drive yourself there. If you are coming from Amman it’s a 3-hour drive on Desert Highway, or 2-hour drive from Aqaba.

You can also hire a taxi that will drop you at the visitor center parking lot. If you choose this option, try to negotiate the price before you get into the cab. The cost they quoted us was 35 JD ($50) one way, from Aqaba to Petra.

The cheapest way to travel to Petra is by JETT Bus that runs daily between Aqaba and Petra or Amman to Petra . The cost from Aqaba is 18 JD ($24) round trip. From Amman the ticket is probably more expensive.

The easiest way to get to Petra is to join a guided tour. This option is much more expensive, but it’s the most convenient one. You let someone else do all the planning and you sit back and enjoy your day. There are tour packages available from Amman and  Aqaba  in Jordan, or  Jerusalem , Tel Aviv and  Eilat   in Israel.

The ticket price for one day in Petra is 90 JD. If you are staying in Jordan overnight, the ticket price is only 50 JD for a day, 55 JD for 2 days, and 60 JD for 3 days. So the longer you stay, the more you save. Children under 12 are free.

You can buy your tickets at the Visitor Center with cash or credit card. If you are planning to visit other sites in Jordan, I recommend buying a  Jordan Pass . The pass will give you free entry to Petra and many other sites, including Jerash and Wadi Rum.

The Visitor Center is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in summer, and from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in winter. Visitors need to leave the site by 7:00 p.m. in summer and 5:00 p.m. in winter.

On Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. you can experience Petra by Night . This beautiful candlelight show with music played by the local Bedouins allows you to visit the Siq and Treasury away from the hordes of tourists.

There is so much to see in The Rose City of Petra! I wish I knew this when I was planning our Jordan itinerary ! Many people spend only a day in Petra, but if you want to do some of the hikes you’ll need much longer than that.

We started at 6:30 a.m., right after the gates opened, and were hiking and exploring straight through until 6 p.m. We saw A LOT, but we still missed several sites we were hoping to see. Ideally, you should spend two full days in Petra to properly explore the sites and enjoy what you see.

You’ll be walking a lot in the heat and on uneven terrain when you visit Petra. Therefore, wearing loose, comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes is a must, if you want to enjoy your visit. I’ve seen people hiking in sandals, or sneakers, but from my experience hiking boots are the best choice for Petra.

You should also try to dress in layers. The weather may be a little cool in the morning, but after the sun goes up it gets very hot. Remember, this is a desert and the sun is very cruel.

Bring a hat, a scarf and lots of sunscreen with you. Also, buy a hiking pole from the main entrance. They sell for $7-8 and are totally worth the investment. Your joints will thank you on the steep trails of Petra!

Planning a trip to Petra? You may want to read these Tips for Traveling to Jordan

If you found this information helpful, pin this article to help other travelers to Petra:

Looking for some other exotic destinations? You may also like these:

• Morocco 10 Day Itinerary • Two Weeks Israel Itinerary for Independent Travelers • The 23 Most Important Places to Visit in Jerusalem • Best Day Trips from Tel Aviv

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

Giancarlo Pena

March 5, 2023 at 10:59 pm

Hi! I am planning to go to Abu Dhabi during the first week of April and would love to do a day trip to Petra. I would fly in at 9:00 am and take the red-eye back at 11:00 pm. Would that be enough time?

I know I would have to drive there and back from AMMAN airport, so would tickets be available by then, or should I buy tickets prior to my arrival?

Thank you so much!

March 8, 2023 at 12:55 pm

Hi Giancarlo, Petra is bigger than you think and visiting it takes at least one full day. From what I see your schedule is pretty tight. Driving from Amman to Petra takes around 3 hours (one-way), so if you arrive in Amman at 9:00 you’ll be in Petra the earliest around noon (possibly later). The park closes at 6:00 p.m., so that will leave you with 5 hours, at the most. Considering that you have to catch a plane at 11:00 p.m., I’d say your visit would be not only very rushed but also very stressful. As for buying tickets ahead of time, I don’t think it would be necessary. Most visitors come to Petra early morning, so around noon you won’t be faced with long lines.

November 22, 2021 at 9:00 am

I’m really grateful you mentioned the donkeys in the context of not using them – I visited yesterday and my experience was completely ruined by what I witnessed towards the donkeys and camels; the behaviour of the handlers is disgusting, and I would also urge absolutely everyone to avoid financing this abuse at all costs. This is a great review in general, and you’re absolutely right about needing multiple days to explore fully, my legs are still aching 24 hours later after the back entrance hike to the front gates, and I still didn’t see everything!

November 22, 2021 at 9:08 am

Thank you for your comment. I’m saddened by the fact the the animal abuse continues in Petra. I was hoping it was just an incident, although I’ve heard other people complaining about it.

January 14, 2020 at 3:36 am

For quite sometime now I have been dreaming of Petra. I so want to get there. And see the lost city with its abandoned wonders. I even dreamt of the treasury once… something about me on a horseback. Seeing all this in your post, reminds me to start planning and maybe fulfill that dream this year. I am definitely gonna take the tips that you have shared and yes, petra at night is on!

Anda Galffy

January 14, 2020 at 8:38 pm

Hope you’ll get to visit Petra soon, Ami.

January 11, 2020 at 4:14 pm

I never would have guessed that Petra gets snow! Regardless of when I visit, I know I definitely want to see the night light show. It looks even more mysterious being a hidden city at night with the candlelight.

Yukti Agrawal

January 11, 2020 at 12:53 pm

What a timely post, as I was planning to visit Jordan in a very short period of time. The Obelisk Tomb really looks interesting and it would be great to take beautiful photos of ancient ruins. Walking through narrow zig-zag alleys of the Siq also looks beautiful thing to do here. Amazing photo of The Treasury.

Bhushavali N

January 11, 2020 at 2:50 am

Ofcourse, like everyone else, Jordan is in my wishlist as well! And you’re right, that place totally needs a dedicated study about it before visiting there, even as a tourist. Without knowing the history, importance and the excavation of it, its just pointless! Good to know that there are donkey rides available. While we mostly walk, sometimes it gets a bit exhausting with our toddler!

January 10, 2020 at 8:24 pm

This is so cool! Your blog is very informative and detailed. As seen in pictures the people were like ants because of these huge structures. Hopefully I’ll be able to have a tour there soon.

Marion Halliday

January 10, 2020 at 12:38 pm

I’ve always been fascinated by Petra and I’ve seen many photos over the years, but I still had no idea of the sheer scale of the city! While the traditional tourist sites look amazing, I particularly like the idea of going off the main trail to some of the less visited sites like the High Place of Sacrifice and the Lion monument. I can see how easy it would be to spend at least 2 or 3 days there – that’s a great travel tip 😀

January 10, 2020 at 6:35 pm

Thank you Marion.

January 9, 2020 at 4:26 pm

When I first time saw Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and heard for the first time the nickname of Petra the “Rose City,” Perta became my must-see place to visit. I hope I will do it soon. I would love to see The ‘Treasury’ and The Royal Tombs Accessed and narrow canyon called Al Siq because I love slot canyons. I like to taste local food, so it’s great to know about the Street of Façades. Your article is very detailed and will be helpful during trip planning for sure.

January 9, 2020 at 7:16 pm

Thank you, Agnes. I’m glad if you could use the information for your trip.

Linda (LD Holland)

January 9, 2020 at 6:20 am

We loved our visit to Petra. But I wish I read your blog post before we went. We didn’t have control over the timing since we went on a tour. And mid-day was crazy busy. And hot. We really did not understand how big the site was. And how much of the walk you did without cover. I agree that one day may not be enough if you really want to hike and spend some time at the site. I guess it just means we need to go back. There was so much more of Jordon to explore as well.

January 9, 2020 at 11:20 am

It’s great that you could visit Petra even for a short time, Linda.

January 9, 2020 at 1:43 am

This has been on my radar for years and there are still good flight prices to Jordan from London, UK. However I am waiting for my daughters to grow up a little bit more so I am going to hold off for a few years, not because I want them to see Petra in it’s amazing glory but also to educate them. I really cant wait to give them history and geography lessons whilst on the road and give them the early start in life. 🙂

January 9, 2020 at 11:21 am

I know what you are saying, Danik. It’s difficult to travel to Jordan with two little kids.

January 8, 2020 at 11:54 pm

Really informative guide! I really loved Petra and I could recommend the Movenpick as a good local hotel – amazing food too.

January 9, 2020 at 11:25 am

Thanks, Fiona. I should check it out for next time.

Rhonda Albom

January 8, 2020 at 2:58 pm

Petra has been on my bucket list for years. Thanks for all the good advice. I think I will have to stay for at least 2 days. I am going to look at your recommendations for nearby “nice” hotels as I wouldn’t want to have to make the same trip from Aqaba multiple days in a row.

January 8, 2020 at 7:46 pm

You are long due for a trip to Jordan, Rhonda. I know how much you want this trip and hope you’ll get there soon.

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• Jordan Travel Tips: 10 Things To Know Before You Start Packing

15 Nov 2021

Embellished with World Heritage Sites, iconic landmarks and vast expanses of desert, Jordan is the star of the Middle East. With the capital city of Amman being one of the oldest on the planet, there’s a lot in store for explorers and history enthusiasts. While most travelers limit their stay to Petra, you will be surprised by the beauty that goes beyond this city.

But while we’re on the subject of Petra, did you know that the climax in the Indian Jones Movie, The Last Crusader was actually shot in Jordan? Well, there is a lot that the place has up its sleeve. If this magnificent country has been on your travel list for quite some time now, it’s time to pack those bags and take a trip. You might have questions about safety or how to get around, but don’t fret because these Jordan travel tips have you covered.

Jordan Travel Tips

Contrary to hearsay, Jordan actually ranks 38th among 136 countries on The Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report, when it comes to health and safety. However, it is always better to take precautions and plan ahead. Here are a few travel tips for Jordan to free your mind of all the worries.

1. Best Time To Visit

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Spring and Autumn are unarguably the best time to plan a holiday in Jordan. However, this also the peak season so planning ahead is essential. For spring, the weather is pleasant during the months of March, April and May while during the fall any time between October and November is a great time. If you wish to avoid the crows you can plan around the end of August or the end of February.

Must Read: Dead Sea In Jordan Is A Traveler’s Paradise In The Middle-East

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2. Go Beyond Petra

Petra is certainly one of the best places to visit in Jordan and a place you just cannot miss. However, there are a number of neighboring cities that are worth a visit. For a unique and desert camp experiences, there is no place better than the Wadi Rum. And how about a visit to the Dead Sea with a stop at the capital city.

3. Get The Jordan Pass

One of the most important things to know before you visit Jordan is about the Jordan Pass. This is one of the most efficient ways to explore the country and a great choice if you are on a budget. The pass allows you entry at most of the tourist attractions and involves a one-time fee. It can be anywhere from 70 to 80 JD. I is best to purchase this pass online and prior to your visit as it will also cover your visa costs.

Suggested Read: 15 Best Hotels And Resorts In Jordan For Every Type Of Traveler

4. What To Wear

If you are visiting any time during the summer months, light cotton clothes are the best way to go. Jordan clothing is a little more conservative than western countries however in the cities, you will find people in shorts, pants and skirts as well. If you plan on visiting the rural area make sure to pack some pants and tracksuits as well. Also carry a shawl is you plan to visit religious places.

Suggested Read: 8 Best Places To See In Jordan That You Simply Can’t Miss [Infographic]

5. Where To Stay In Jordan

If you are on a pocket-friendly trip, then Amman is a great place to look for hostels, BNBs and hotels. Where to stay in Jordan on budget is a question that crosses the minds of many backpackers but it no hassle fining budget properties in the cities. Petra is also dotted with a number of choices like Petra Palace Hotel and Petra Moon Hotel that offer great deals.

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6. How To Get Around

One of the best ways to get around Jordan is to hire a car, besides driving around the cities is an experience of its own. You can also opt for public transport like buses and taxis, however if you have a number of places on your itinerary, then hiring a car is a good call.

Suggested Read: In Photos: Top Tourist Attractions In Jordan

7. Food & Drink

Any traveler who visits Jordan certainly comes back with great appreciation for the food. Falafels, kebabs, and of course the shawarmas, each delicacy will leave you wanting more. Also make sure to enjoy the tea and beverages as well. Mansaf, Moutabel, and Fattet Hummus are some of the other dishes that one must definitely try.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Jordan: Buy All That Is Distinct And Quaint In The Country Of Jordan

8. Health & Safety

As mentioned earlier, Jordan is definitely safe for tourists and travelers. However one must keep in mind a few safety tips while traveling to Jordan. To avoid pickpockets, keep your wallets in the front pocket of your jeans or pants. Also instead of the tap water, make sure to carry bottled water with your whenever you head out. Taxi drivers can also charge higher prices and hence it is advisable to agree on a fee before you get in.

Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In Jordan: A Never Miss Out Experience For Everyone!

9. Pack The Essentials

The rocky terrain of Jordan certainly demands some sports shoes. Make sure to pack your hiking gear if you plan to take up the activity. Apart from this, the hotel rooms feature European two prong plugs. If you’re carrying additional equipment make sure to pack accordingly. Also keep sunscreen handy because you will be stepping out in the sun quite often.

Suggested Read: Jordan In December: Celebrating Christmas And Making Memories The Right Way

10. Learn The Basics

In the cities and tourist areas, you will definitely come across English speaking folk. But it is advisable to know the basic phrases to avoid any confusion.

Hello – Salaam Sorry – Aasif Toilet – Hammam Hotel – Fondoq Yes – Na’am No – La’a

Further Read: Nightlife In Jordan: Experience The Lesser Known Side Of Jordan

Jordan has a charm of its own which is definitely worth an experience. If this beautiful country has been sitting on your bucket list for quite some time now, it’s time to scratch it off! With these Jordan travel tips in mind, you’re all set to start packing. So go ahead and head over to TravelTriangle and customize your own Jordan package.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Question About Jordan Travel Tips

Why is Jordan called the Star in the middle east?

Jordan is dotted with a number of World Heritage Sites including some iconic landmarks like Petra and Amman. Hence, the country is often referred to as the star of the Middle East.

Which is the best time to visit Jordan?

Spring and Autumn are without a doubt the best time to plan a holiday in Jordan. However, this is also the peak season so planning ahead is essential. For spring, the weather is pleasant during the months of March, April, and May while during the fall any time between October and November is a great time. If you wish to avoid the crows you can plan around the end of August or the end of February.

Why is Petra worth visiting?

What to wear in Jordan?

Jordan clothing is a little more conservative than western countries however in the cities, you will find people in shorts, pants, and skirts as well.

Where to stay in Jordan?

Amman is a great place to look for hostels, BNBs, and hotels. Where to stay in Jordan on a budget is a question that crosses the minds of many backpackers but it no hassle finding budget properties in the cities. Petra is also dotted with a number of choices like the Petra Palace Hotel and Petra Moon Hotel that offer great deals.

What are the modes of transportation available in Jordan?

One of the best ways to get around Jordan is to hire a car, besides driving around the cities is an experience of its own. You can also opt for public transport like buses and taxis, however, if you have a number of places on your itinerary, then hiring a car is a good call.

How to say ‘hello’ in Jordan?

In the cities and tourist areas, you will definitely come across English speaking folk. But it is advisable to know the basic phrases to avoid any confusion. 1. Hello – Salaam 2. Sorry – Aasif 3. Toilet – Hammam 4. Hotel – Fondoq 5. Yes – Na’am 6. No – La’a

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COUNTRY GUIDES , JORDAN , MIDDLE EAST , PETRA · April 19, 2019 Last Updated on March 13, 2024

VISITING JORDAN’S BEST PLACES WITHOUT BOOKING A TOUR

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A holiday to Jordan provides the unique opportunity to experience a truly diverse itinerary that will see you snorkelling in pristine coral reefs, camping in a striking red desert, traversing down waterfalls and roaming the paths of a 2,000-year-old city. It’s an adventurer’s ultimate holiday destination, and this guide explores the best places Jordan has to offer along with some tips on how to see them without booking onto an organised tour.

Bordering Syria and Iraq, Jordan is often considered to be a dangerous country that women, in particular, should avoid travelling to. However, its neighbours’ conflicts do not cross over the borders, and Jordan is, in fact, an incredibly safe and welcoming destination with a wealth of magical attractions waiting to be explored. Keep reading to learn all my top tips for planning your own trip without a tour to this amazing country!

THE JORDAN PASS

Before visiting Jordan, be sure to purchase the Jordan Pass in order to save money on your visa and major attractions. The Pass costs between 70JD and 80JD depending on how many days you want to spend in Petra. It includes your visa for the country and entry to other attractions such as Karak Castle, Jerash, Amman Citadel and Wadi Rum. Considering the visa alone costs 40JD and entrance tickets to Petra start at 50JD for just one day, it is a guaranteed saving.

The Jordan pass can be bought online and you simply need to print it off and show it upon arrival at the airport and any included attractions that you visit.

DRIVING IN JORDAN

The best way to travel independently in Jordan is by renting a car, which can be booked through a local company for around £200 for ten days with GPS.

As long as you avoid Amman, driving in Jordan is relatively easy because all of the major sights are accessible via the Desert Highway or Kings Highway, both of which are large main roads with set speed limits and a good lane system.

A few key things to consider when driving in Jordan are:

• There are lots of police checkpoints, but they will simply ask a couple of questions about where you’re from and where you’re going before sending you on your way.
• There are lots of hidden speed bumps located along the highway; be sure to keep an eye out for signs and always stick to the speed limit.
• Petrol stations are ubiquitous along the highway. You can expect to pay around £70 for petrol for a ten-day holiday when driving from the airport to the Red Sea and back up again.
• Parking is available at most major sights and the majority of hotels.
• Signposts are in English and Arabic.
• There is a hidden roadside lip along the highway, so be sure not to drive too close to the edge.
• Lanes are not always properly marked but drivers do tend to stick to them. There aren’t strict rules on overtaking or a fast or slow lane, so be wary and beep as you overtake large lorries.

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MADABA: THE BEST STARTING POINT FOR A SELF GUIDED TOUR IN JORDAN

Located a 30-minute drive southwest of Queen Alia International Airport, Madaba is the perfect starting point if you plan on driving in Jordan. Madaba provides the chance to visit a city without having to drive in Amman, which is notorious for its busy roads and confusing lanes.

GETTING TO MADABA

The drive to Madaba is relatively straightforward, and the city is based around a narrow, medieval one-way system, meaning that as long as you take it slowly and pay attention to the arrows it is quite easy to navigate.

WHERE TO STAY IN MADABA

The Saint John Hotel is located in the city centre and has a large car park across the road. It is also home to the rooftop Sky Bar, where you can enjoy a tipple or two while overlooking the beautiful King Hussein mosque.

BUYING ALCOHOL IN MADABA

Another good reason to start at Madaba is that, due to its large Christian population, it is home to a handful of small liquor stores, providing the chance to stock up on alcohol to enjoy during the rest of your holiday. Keep in mind, however, that you can only drink it in the privacy of your hotel room. Mujib Chalets (details below) are the perfect remote spot to enjoy a drink while watching the sunset over the Dead Sea.

WHAT TO SEE IN MADABA

Sights to see in Madaba itself include St George’s Church, famous for its Byzantine mosaics; the Church of the Beheading of John the Baptist, home to a bell tower that you can climb for unrivalled views across the city; and the soaring, gold-roofed King Hussein mosque.

JORDAN’S BEST PLACES

All of these sites are located south of the airport, meaning you can easily tick them off in a ten-day holiday. Other places to consider are Amman and Jerash, both of which are located north of the airport.

The biggest draw to Jordan is undoubtedly Petra, and with the chance to roam the streets of a 2,000 year-old-city carved out of magnificent pink sandstone, it’s easy to understand why.

Previously the capital of the Nabataean empire, Petra was once a bustling city of around 20,000 inhabitants. A booming incense industry fuelled complex water systems, verdant greenery, and stately buildings and structures. However, the discovery of new trade routes meant that the people soon left and Petra sat abandoned and unknown to the Western world for centuries.

Following Jean Louis Burckhardt’s discovery of the Lost City in 1812, Petra is now open to the public and it welcomes more than half a million visitors each year. While visitor numbers may be growing, it still remains extremely quiet considering its UNESCO World Heritage and Wonder of the World status, making it one of the most enjoyable and extraordinary places to see in the world. The sprawling site has an array of tombs, monasteries and amphitheatres spread over a hundred square miles, resulting in the need for at least two but ideally three days to explore it fully.

HOW TO SPEND YOUR TIME IN PETRA

Petra’s main attractions are busiest from around 8 am through to 4 pm, so you should aim to have at least one early morning and one late afternoon in the site in order to see it at its quietest. On your first day, enter via the Siq as soon as the site opens at 6 am to get the best first impression – seeing the Treasury peeking through the towering walls will make it worthwhile.

On your second day, enter Petra via the back route on the hike from Little Petra to the Monastery in order to get the best first impression of the behemoth structure, which will slowly come into view above the mountain peaks. This will also enable you to avoid all the crowds and souvenir stalls that line the path to the Monastery on the other side. Aim to arrive at the Monastery late in the afternoon, when it will be at its quietest and no longer in the shade. There is a cafe sitting opposite where you can stop for refreshments after the hike, which takes between two and three hours.

Other highlights of Petra include the Royal Tombs, Street of Facades, Colonnaded Street, Great Temple and the High Place of Sacrifice. Be sure to climb up to the viewpoint above the Treasury for a different perspective (book a guide for around 20JD to take you up there) and book tickets for Petra by Night to see the Siq and Treasury lit up by more than 1,000 candles. Petra by Night takes place every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and tickets cost 17JD. They can be bought on the day at the main entrance.

WHERE TO STAY IN PETRA

Wadi Musa – the town in which Petra is located – is home to a vast number of hotels ranging from budget-friendly to high-end. If you’re not on a strict budget, the Movenpick Resort Petra is a great option because it is located a two-minute walk from Petra’s entrance and it has a pleasant outdoor swimming pool, which you’ll be very grateful for after a long day of hiking. Other good options are the Petra Guest House , which sits right at the main entrance and is home to the famous Cave Bar, and the Petra Marriott Hotel . Located on a nearby hillside, this hotel offers fantastic views across the valley as well as the chance to experience a traditional dinner in a scenic Bedouin tent.

Spending a night or two camping in the Wadi Rum desert is an absolute must when visiting Jordan. With a breathtaking landscape of bright red sand, hidden rocky caverns, rippling sand dunes and towering sandstone mountains, the 280-square-mile protected desert is a truly magnificent setting and the ultimate playground for travellers. A visit brings the opportunity to navigate through hidden canyons, slide down sand dunes, watch the sunset over sandstone mountains, and stargaze under the clear night sky.

WHERE TO STAY IN WADI RUM

The experience of camping in the desert is perhaps what lures most travellers to Wadi Rum, and with countless camps peppered throughout the site, you can choose from a luxury offering or a more low-key, traditional camp. The Wadi Rum Luxury Night Camp boasts en-suite bathrooms and clear bubble tents – perfect for sleeping under the stars – but it is one of the largest camps in Wadi Rum and sits very close to the village.

The Wadi Rum Sky Tours and Camp , meanwhile, offers a more intimate, authentic experience and sits right in the heart of the desert. Surrounded by large rock formations, it is protected from the elements and has fantastic viewpoints for both sunrise and sunset. It is important to research your campsite carefully before booking because some have much better settings than others. Research on a third party site like Booking.com first and then contact your chosen camp directly to book your accommodation and tours together.

WHAT TO DO IN WADI RUM

If you only have one day in Wadi Rum, the best way to spend it is on a jeep tour, whizzing between sights such as the Lawrence’s Spring and the Burdah Rock Bridge. The jeep tours also provide the chance to trek through canyons, sprint down sand dunes and tuck into a picnic in the middle of the desert.

If you have longer, consider spending your second day trekking up one of the mountains – Jebel Um Adaami is the highest – or booking a hot air balloon ride or microlight flight. Most campsites offer their own jeep tours, camel tours and trekking tours but further activities might need to be researched separately.

THE DEAD SEA

A visit to Jordan also provides the chance to swim – or bob – in the Dead Sea, which at 431 metres below sea level, is the lowest point on Earth. The extreme salt level is caused by there being no outlet streams to allow the water to escape, meaning that when the water evaporates the salt is then left behind. As a result, a dip in the warm salt water lake is an unusual experience, with the buoyancy causing your limbs to keep rising to the surface. You will also become very aware of any skin irritations or scratches – don’t even think about shaving beforehand or touching your eyes while you’re in the water.

WHERE TO STAY AT THE DEAD SEA

There are a large number of five-star hotels located along the Dead Sea coast, but for a much quieter, less-touristy experience, book a room at Mujib Chalets . Sitting right on the banks of the lake, the complex has 15 basic chalets that provide the chance to get away from it all and swim in the Dead Sea without any crowds – perfect for an atmospheric swim at sunset. The chalets are incredibly simple and do cost more than they should for what you get, but the experience outweighs the lack of luxuries.

Breakfast is provided and there is a basic dinner on offer, but be sure to pack some food because the chalets are very isolated with no shop nearby. Make sure any items you bring are ready-to-eat because no cooking facilities or cutlery are provided. There is, however, a fridge in every room, so if you bring some alcohol you’ll be able to enjoy a refreshing drink on the privacy of your own chalet terrace. Another benefit of Mujib Chalets is that they’re located right across the road from Wadi Mujib, meaning you can arrive first thing in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Affectionately known as the Grand Canyon of Jordan, Wadi Mujib is a striking gorge that runs 70 km from the Desert Highway to the Dead Sea. With towering walls of deep orange rock surrounding a glistening path of water that’s dotted with waterfalls and rapids, it’s an adrenaline junkie’s paradise.

WHAT TO DO AT WADI MUJIB

When arriving at Wadi Mujib , you will be able to book onto the Siq Trail, which provides the chance to scale and slide down waterfalls, swim through rapids, and navigate through hidden caves. There is the option to take a guide, and if you are not a confident swimmer or are uncomfortable with heights then it is strongly recommended because some of the waterfalls are quite high and tricky to climb. The guide will be able to advise on the best way to approach them, making the whole experience a lot easier.

TIPS FOR VISITING WADI MUJIB

The trail costs 21JD and you do not need to book in advance. Aim to arrive early in the morning because it can get very busy and you will end up hanging around in the rapids, clinging onto ropes while you wait your turn. Be sure to wear good waterproof shoes and bring a waterproof bag for your phone and camera.

THE RED SEA

Bordering the northern apex of the Red Sea, in the Gulf of Aqaba, Jordan offers some of the best snorkelling and diving in the world. With only Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Yemen sitting on the sea’s east coast, the area has remained relatively untouched by tourism, meaning there are plenty of pristine coral reefs with vibrant colours and tropical inhabitants to explore. Best of all, these reefs are located just a few metres from the shore and can be reached from the jetty, removing the need to waste any money or time on a boat trip. The idea of visiting a beach in the Middle East may be a little intimidating for women, but Jordan’s best snorkelling spots sit within a very tourist-friendly area.

WHERE TO STAY AT THE RED SEA

There are a number of hotels located near to the best snorkelling and diving spots, and it is best to stay at one of those rather than in the city of Aqaba. If you aim for one of the hotels across the road from the Japanese Garden dive site and the Berenice Beach Club then you will be well placed for the best snorkelling sites. Arab Divers Dive Centre offers simple and affordable accommodation with its own swimming pool and diving instructors. Snorkel equipment can also be rented from the hotel for 7JD per day, and they take great care in ensuring each person is given the correct style and size.

WHERE TO GO SNORKELLING AT THE RED SEA

Berenice Beach Club , meanwhile, provides the opportunity to snorkel without having to visit a public beach, allowing for female travellers to feel comfortable wearing Western swimming costumes. Costing 10JD per day, the beach club stretches across 500 metres of the Red Sea with a large number of sun loungers as well as three swimming pools and a restaurant. Arrive before 9 am, when the sea is calm and the beach club empty, for the best snorkelling.

WHY JORDAN SHOULD BE YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY DESTINATION

With so many diverse attractions to see, Jordan really is an extraordinary destination. After all, there aren’t many places where you can find some of the world’s best snorkelling, an otherworldly red desert, a 2,000 year-old-ancient city and a hidden canyon full of waterfalls all within a four-hour drive of one another.

While the tourism industry is still in its infancy compared to other destinations around the world, numbers are growing, and Ryanair launched directs flights from several European cities last year, meaning it will only get busier. By following the guide above you can easily see many of the best places in Jordan without a tour, so now is the time to go to experience a holiday of a lifetime!

We hope that this article has helped inspire you to take a trip to Jordan. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

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October 5, 2019 at 6:12 pm

hello! which tour operator did you end up choosing to go with at Wadi Rum?

Was the guide (if you did go on a tour) good, like help taking photos? I’m a solo traveller usually, hence I’m asking :)

Do you reckon also, if you booked tour operator A, can you stay at another tent i.e closer to the village, or do you have to stay they specify?

Brighley says

September 26, 2023 at 10:43 pm

Hello, thank you for your article. If you didn’t hire a car, what would you suggest doing? A Private driver? I am coming over from Australia solo in November and unsure about driving there.

Vanessa Rivers says

October 20, 2023 at 1:36 pm

Hi Birghley, thanks for reading and your comments. Yes I would look into a private driver if you are traveling solo. Hope you have a wonderful trip! X, Vanessa Rivers, We Are Travel Girls Co-Founder

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Jordan: Your Gateway To Adventure In The Arab World

Article By: Manali

Jordan is a stunning country in Arabia that will wow you with adventures. Explore its tranquil natural reserves, discover breathtaking historical sites, and tour cities with a rich culture and lovely beaches among many other adventures in Jordan.

Jordan is a strategically located country at the intersection of three continents: Asia, Africa, and Europe. It’s on many travel bucket lists because you will traverse captivating landscapes long considered the ‘cradle of civilization.’ Petra, an ancient city of the third century and the first capital of the Nabateans, offers evidence of Jordan’s lengthy past. All adventurers heading to Jordan — thrill seekers, nature lovers, families — find a wide choice of activities to suit their interests.

Plan your trip to Jordan in the spring when the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy outdoor activities. With a reliable travel website, you can compare and book a cheap  Royal Jordanian  flight to Amman.

I have curated a few of the best adventures in Jordan to elevate your time in this fascinating country.

Top Adventure in Jordan: Explore Petra, the Ancient City.

For an adventure traveler, the picture of Petra in Jordan, a 2,000-year-old, secretive, sandstone ancient Nabatean capital, often comes to mind. The Rose City, which is carved out of a pink stone outcrop and has unusual fissures and forms, always sparks awe and amazement.

Explore Petra’s hidden chambers concealed in tight spaces, temples, dark caves, collonaded alleyways, and the High Places of Sacrifice. Visit the Treasury trekking across the Siq, enjoy the theatres and marvel at the Royal Tombs. A  must: take a walk in the monastery, losing yourself in Petra’s ethereal allure.

The Treasury by itself is well worth the entry fee, but the 264 square-kilometre, UNESCO-listed complex is much larger. A visit to Petra is a weird and magnificent experience. Several small hotels in the tourist village nearby provide lodging for those who can afford more than a day’s stay.

An Active Adventure in Jordan: Go Hiking In Wadi Rum.

An arid desert with enough interest to offer the nomadic traveler, Wadi Rum is also known as the Valley of the Moon. Still others know it as the film location for “Lawrence of Arabia,” the 1962 movie by David Lean about the British explorer. The stark desert and enormous dunes have also appeared in several “Star Wars” films. This geological wonder is carved out of the granite and sandstone rock of southern Jordan.

Adventures abound at Wadi Rum. For example, the enormous rock faces there offer the opportunity for some genuinely world-class climbing, drawing some of the world’s top rock climbers each year.

There are numerous routes to select from, most of which are rarely congested. Even some small, relatively easy rock walls are available for novices to practice on, providing them with the expertise needed to tackle the longer, more difficult routes found throughout the area.

A trip to Wadi Rum can take anywhere from half a day to a week, depending on the time you spend climbing.

Explore Jordan Underwater With Scuba Diving Adventures In Aqaba

Though Jordan’s coastline is just 16 miles (26 kms) long, Aqaba is quickly developing into the region’s diving and snorkeling capital for several reasons.

First, the coral near the northern tip of the Red Sea is thriving as a result of recent conservation initiatives. This success adds scuba diving as yet another exciting choice to the nation’s list of adventure activities. The Gulf of Aqaba is also the world’s deepest and narrowest gulf, notes the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). More than 1,000 invertebrate species, 200 soft and hard corals and healthy reefs live in the unique environment.

The city’s dive instructors provide complete PADI training for all ages. Even children as young as 8 years can learn the fundamentals of safe diving at local resorts, although a minimum age of 10 is required for Junior PADI Certification If you’ve already earned your certification, explore the 234-foot-long (74 meters), creature-filled sunken cargo ship known as the Cedar Pride , which is regarded as one of the greatest dives in the region.

Float And Relax In The Dead Sea For A Soft Jordan Adventure

Reaching the furthest horizon, the azure water is globally recognised as the planet’s lowest point, situated 1,400 feet or 420 metres below sea level. The Dead Sea is renowned for having an exceptionally high salinity level, more than eight times that of the typical ocean. It’s this special quality that allows one to stay afloat in the Dead Sea.

In actuality, the Dead Sea is a lake rather than a sea. The other part of the name is accurate: the lake is essentially lifeless with the amount of salt in the water! The water is a stunning jade, and the rocks have a fascinating cauliflower-like look due to a coating of salt crystals covering them.

 Go Hot-Air Balloon Riding For An Unforgettable Jordan Adventure

Wadi Rum has stunning scenery from all angles, but you have to view the valley from above to fully appreciate the depth of the area’s natural splendour.

Most mornings, hot air balloon rides are available, offering guests the opportunity to soar over the massive sandstone cliffs and glide soundlessly over the desert. To me, Wadi Rum appears even more breathtaking from above, especially in the glow of sunrise. It’s a tranquil and soothing way to take in the majesty of the location. Although tourists must rise early for this excursion, the benefits more than make the effort worthwhile.

I hope my suggestions for Jordan’s top adventures make this the bucket list trip you dream of.

Author Manali shares the latest travels in the Arab world in this blog post about adventures in Jordan and how to appreciate the country’s natural and manmade wonders sponsored by Supramind Digital.

Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.

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Is Jordan Safe to Travel? - Jordan Forum

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Is Jordan Safe to Travel?

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1. Is it safe at this time?

2. Tourism I would imagine is slow at this time?

3. What can we wear? women and men?

4. Any unique experiences in Petra or Wadi Rum you recommend?

13 replies to this topic

Hi Kjamaica,

Jordan maintains a steady and strong alliance with whole world, like an old oak tree firmly rooted, undisturbed by the constant ebb and flow of present-day challenges, especially in this turbulent area. Here in Jordan, we treasure peace as something sacred. Our heartfelt wish for a world where peace to reigns worldwide, enabling every person to lead lives filled with harmony and fulfillment.

We understand that you have some concerns about your upcoming trip to Jordan, especially considering the current situation in Israel . But, as of now, Jordan has remained relatively stable, and it continues to be a popular destination for travelers. The majority of tourist sites and areas in Jordan are far removed from the recent events in Israel, and the country has a well-established tourism infrastructure.

While uncertainties exist, many visitors have continued to enjoy their time in Jordan without encountering any issues related to the events in neighboring countries. The Jordanian people are known for their hospitality, and efforts are consistently made to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists.

We recommend proceeding with your travel plans; I believe you'll experience a smooth trip in Jordan. As of today, I haven't observed any notable changes in Amman . The military vehicles you may notice are a regular occurrence in Jordan and not necessarily related to the current events. There's no indication that your visit will be affected by the ongoing situation.

As for Tourism: Due to various factors, tourism in Jordan may be slower at certain times. However, this can also mean fewer crowds and a more personalized experience for travelers.

Dress Code: For both men and women, modest clothing is recommended, especially when visiting religious sites and conservative areas. For women, this typically means covering shoulders, cleavage, and knees, while for men, shorts and sleeveless shirts may be acceptable in more casual settings. I have sent you a PM with more details about what to wear. Please check you Inbox.

Unique Experiences: In Petra, consider exploring the lesser-known sites such as the Monastery (Ad Deir) and hiking the scenic trails to viewpoints like the High Place of Sacrifice for stunning vistas. Attending Petra By Night offers a magical opportunity to see the ancient city illuminated by candlelight, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. Participating in a cooking course at Petra Kitchen allows you to learn about and savor traditional Jordanian cuisine, adding a flavorful dimension to your visit.

For a more intimate dining experience, arranging a private dinner in Little Petra or at a Bedouin camp can provide a memorable taste of local hospitality and cuisine. Additionally, embarking on a backdoor visit to Ad Deir or undertaking the thrilling hike up to Jabal Haroun, Petra's highest mountain, offers adventurous travelers the chance to discover lesser-known and awe-inspiring aspects of this historic site. These experiences promise to enrich your journey and create lasting memories of your time in Petra.

In Wadi Rum , opt for a sunrise or sunset jeep tour to witness the desert's breathtaking colors, or consider spending a night in a Bedouin camp for an authentic desert experience under the starry sky. You can also enjoy a hot air balloon ride for a stunning aerial view or embark on a camel trek for a traditional desert experience. For adventure seekers, hiking or scrambling to iconic landmarks like Um Fruth or the Burdah rock bridge offers thrilling exploration of the rugged terrain. These experiences promise unforgettable adventures in the desert landscape of Wadi Rum.

Feel free to ask if you have any further questions or need more information!

Wishing you a safe and enjoyable journey to our beloved homeland, Jordan.

Best regards,

Khaled Masadeh

Plato Tours & Travel

Regarding unique experiences in Wadi Rum is, to stay at some traditional Bedouin camp and do a jeep tour through the red one desert as Plato in post no. 1 tells about. But more unique is jeep tour trough the white wild desert deeply located closer to Saudi Arabia. You can hike there or climb at Burdah Rock Bridge, Al Hash or Um Adaami, the highest mountain in Jordan , 1856m above sea level, with a stunning panoramic view. It is worth any time and you get memory for the life.

2. It was a bit sad to see that tourism had slowed down given the regional conflict. However, that also meant that the sites were less crowded than would be usual.

3. I travelled with my family and we dressed conservatively as a respect to the local culture.

4. At Wadi Rum , we stayed in a bubble at the Luxury Rum Magic camp and I would definitely recommend that if you are looking out for places to stay. We also booked a 2-2.5 hour sunset jeep tour for JOD35 with the camp manager (our driver helped us with the bookings) and I felt it was definitely worth it.

And also such camps are much better located deeply in the desert without to have a 2-2.5 hour sunset jeep tour for JOD35 and also without sky pollution from village Disah.

This really needs to be broken up into specific threads and referred to the stickied Safety thread.

@Bhinneka, Sorry, I don't agree, people have their own choices and they don't only ask about security but also have other questions. So I think it's done right, they don't just have to go to that pinned security thread.

AS of 4/13 the simple answer is no.

If anyone intends to fly to Jordan at this time, I suggest reassessing your plans. According to Israeli news sources, Israel intends a "significant response" to the Iranian attack. With Jordan in between the two countries, it wouldn't be a stretch for a drone to stray and land somewhere in Jordan. For example, the Israeli military told residents of the Golan Heights to "stay close to bomb shelters". Umm Qais, Jordan is within walking distance (once you get past the fence) of the Golan Heights. If there is any activity in the Golan Heights then it's very palpable that there will also be some blow back in Umm Qais.

Last night, the Jordanian Air Force shot down a number of Iranian drones flying in Jordanian air space.

The US embassy in Amman has issued a security alert about the air space closure: https://jo.usembassy.gov/security-alert-closure-of-jordanian-airspace-april-13-2024/

Stay safe! A few news sources of what is going on ...

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iran-launches-drone-attack-israel-expected-unfold-over-hours-2024-04-13/

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/jordans-air-defence-ready-shoot-down-any-iranian-aircraft-that-violate-its-2024-04-13/

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/israeli-military-says-iran-has-launched-drones-at-israel-will-take-hours-to-arrive

The objective was not to just see the sunset but rather to do a desert safari. The sunset was just at the end of the tour. Also, I checked with multiple people and all of them quoted a price of JOD35 to me for the 2-hour safari. Maybe I got ripped, but then I didn't have any options. What is the right price for the 2-hour desert safari in your view, just so that others don't pay high prices like I did?

2 hours jeep trip in my eyes is too short for to enjoy the desert. But if you are limited then I understand you do only 2 hours.

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Helpful Tips On The Best Way To Travel With Friends Of Different Incomes

B ack in college, we were all poor. We had student loans up to our ears and fueled ourselves on instant ramen -- maybe with some added Sriracha sauce when we were feeling fancy. Travel was easy because everyone was more or less in the same boat, financially speaking, so we pooled together pennies from our summer jobs and Federal Student Aid loans to go abroad. But then we graduated and got real jobs, and thus began the income insecurity.

The "rich" friend, "poor" friend dynamic has always been a perennially awkward one, a wealth gap capable of hewing any long-standing relationships in twain. The data bear this out; one survey concluded that money is the very, very last thing friends will discuss amongst themselves. Or take findings by Merrill Lynch and Age Wave , suggesting more than half of women would prefer to talk about their own death before divulging the state of their pocketbooks.

Planning a trip amongst old pals of varying financial situations is, understandably, precarious. There's a lot of potential for hurt feelings, misunderstandings, and awkward conversations about expenses. People can feel pressured, left out, or shamed when ends don't meet for that group reunion in Cancún. It doesn't have to be this way. Let's look at a few tips for making travel plans work when your salaries aren't quite in alignment.

Read more: This Is What You Should Never Do When You Travel

Be Inclusive

The number one tip here is to never assume and never exclude. It's a knee-jerk reaction to, after hearing whisperings of a friend's financial troubles, avoid embarrassing them by leaving them out of the travel conversation entirely. This is a surefire way to bruise even the most solid relationships when they accidentally learn about a trip in the offing -- or worse, spot your beach photos on social media after the fact and ask for an explanation.

The solution? Always invite friends -- finances be damned -- regardless of where you're going or how long. Make it an open invitation without forcing their hand to commit or not. This gives them a graceful way to bow out without inviting questions about the number in their bank account. There's no need to investigate; people will think up the requisite excuses regardless of why they decide not to come, letting them save face in the process.

Be Transparent

The worst possible thing for a person on a tight budget is an unexpected expense. In group planning situations, these are all too common. Everyone wants different things, so each person mentally plans their version of the trip -- or makes plans with another friend. Then suddenly, the budget-focused person finds out everyone is renting jet skis for the morning, an expense that leaves them out.

Transparency needs to be the operative word from day one. Get the whole gang together, or start a group chat, and be brutally honest about every aspect of the trip. Are you going to fly in together? How long will you stay? What's the itinerary from day to day? Make sure you include the "maybes" on the docket, too, and the projected costs for them if plans change.

Account for emergencies, and figure out how you'll deal with contingencies that force you to throw out your plans altogether. The more open everyone is, the easier it will be to maximize your budget while traveling . This gives the person whose wallet is on a tight leash a chance to make their own plans for those travel vagaries.

Talk In Terms Of Budget, Not Income

While we might be slowly chipping away at the foundations of the taboo on discussing finances, it's still very much a faux pas in Western culture to inquire about someone's earnings. Planning a trip, unfortunately, encourages questions of this forbidden nature. Change the paradigm by tweaking the vocabulary. Ask people what their anticipated budget is rather than awkwardly whispering behind their backs: "Can so-and-so afford it?"

Budgets are great because even those flush with cash can have a limited budget. There could be so many reasons behind a budget that financial insecurity won't necessarily be the first suspicion on everyone's mind. Someone might have just signed a mortgage or have a bigger family trip planned later in the year. If something on the checklist is too expensive, all a person needs to say is, "That's out of my budget," and that's that. No further discussion is required. Even so, you get a realistic, workable idea of what everyone can and cannot afford without economic squeamishness.

Assign A Lead Travel Planner

Some people love planning, so much so that they get a thrill out of the prospect of designing a trip from beginning to end for their friend group. If you've got that type of friend, give them the reins -- but while you're at it, have them craft the trip to be as budget-friendly as possible. Then, there's never any awkward discussion where any one friend has to keep clearing their throat and reminding everyone that they can't do XYZ activity, either.

This works best if the trip planner functions as a proxy to buy all the tickets, accommodations, and tours and then gives each group member their "bill." This creates some budget anonymity where each friend individually pays the planner their share. It also makes it possible (should higher-income friends so desire) to offset the cost of a lower-income friend's share by paying more, resulting in a smaller bill that's more manageable for them.

Generosity Is Okay, But Keep It Reasonable

There are plenty of tight-knit groups out there where everyone's willing to pitch in to make sure that one friend doesn't miss out on the big yearly reunion. On the one hand, this is great. It's a testament to how close you all are and ensures no one gets left out of the fun -- after all, low wages and high inflation don't look to be changing anytime soon. If everyone's on board, then why not?

On the other hand, be cautious here. This can create an awkward power dynamic between someone with a higher income and someone who earns significantly less. Some people derive a great sense of pride from their ability to pay for themselves, so gifting them some or all of a vacation can be shameful and create a sense of financial impotence. Conversely, it can create pressure on friends who are flush to make up the difference, intensifying the suspicion many well-off individuals have that their lower-income friends just use them for money. Wherever you sit in this exchange, walk on eggshells.

Avoid IOUs Like The Plague

IOUs (an "I owe you" or an unpaid debt from lending money) are a battering ram to most friendships, as anyone who has lent money can attest to. Even borrowing a measly $20 creates a persistent sense of indebtedness and urgency, one that lingers in the room between the debtor and the lender until the debt is paid. Even afterward -- and even if you did pay them back in full -- it can create silent resentment if you took too long or that friend had to pester you about it. Friendships have ended in messy fallingouts for far, far less.

As much as is reasonably possible, don't lend money -- nor borrow it -- from friends, especially when it comes to costly trips. It's just not worth the drama it could potentially create. Helping someone out without the expectation of repayment is one thing (as mentioned in the previous tip), but bad feelings can stick around for years after an IOU. Leave lending to the banks.

Create Flexible Itineraries

It is important to plan a trip that's forgiving to the lowest budget, make no mistake, but there's no shame if one friend wants to do a more expensive activity -- say, they want to swim with the pigs while planning a Caribbean vacation . On that same trip, someone else might prefer sitting on the beach for free. Rather than make the former the default planned group activity, provide extra options. While one group is island-hopping on a private boat, another could try their hands at surfing. Then, you reconvene later and dovetail your travel plans as if you were never apart. Varied plans make for great conversation when you regale each other about what the others missed.

In particular, create lower-cost or free alternatives to all the plans that require money. Regardless of where you are in the world, there are a ton of cheap or free things you can do . Never make the mistake of assuming good memories need money to create them. As the Ray Henderson song goes, "The best things in life are free."

Account For Independent Traveling

Following off the previous point, it's key that your plans give space for independent traveling -- that is when the group "parts ways" to go off and do their own thing. This is a rock-solid solution to avoid compromises and allot everyone a few hours of breathing space to do what they will. Think of this as an "escape hatch," so friends who feel boxed in by expensive -- or undesirable -- travel plans have a way out. It's time they can use as they please, whether to take a nap or do that thing that no one else wants to.

As a general principle, it's a good idea to include plenty of free time when group traveling. People get tired and need a moment or two alone. The last thing you want is an argument brought on by weary, hangry travelers. A few breaths apart helps to reset and recharge everyone for another day of fun-filled traveling together and gives space for those whose budgets cannot cope.

Split Costs In A Way That Makes Sense

Splitting costs makes sense for things of equal value, like airplane tickets of the same class booked as a group, shared hotel accommodations, and anything where per-person prices would be identical. In other situations, such as a group dinner at a restaurant, splitting is nonsensical. Why should the person who filled up on free garlic bread subsidize another's fresh lobster? Adopt a "pay for what you get" rule and don't do bill splitting for unequal costs; as with avoiding IOUs, it prevents arguments and hard feelings.

Go a step further and make sure everyone knows they're equal with splitting apps, such as Splitwise . This lets you break up a payment among friends, showing clearly how much each person is responsible for and holding them accountable for paying it. If struggling budgets are preventing certain friends from traveling, then consider splitting the overall cost by category. In other words, one higher-income friend handles the flights, one handles the accommodations, and others who don't earn as much split other expenses. This method still feels fair, like people are pulling their own weight, even if some spent less than others.

Try A You Pick, You Pay Approach

Maybe there's one friend who's absolutely dying to watch the sunset over San Diego Bay on a sailboat, but no one else is quite as gung ho -- and, more to the point, able to cough up enough dough. Assuming they've got the cash to spare, they could (if they're fully onboard, no pun intended) treat everyone else by paying for the whole thing. It lets the friend in question get their dream sunset sail tour, and those whose budgets are less accommodating enjoy something they might not have been able to afford.

Of course, we recommend trying this out mostly for things that are on the smaller side, such as food and drink stops. If you do try out this strategy, though, it creates a sense of fairness -- similar to how you wouldn't feel indebted if a friend invited you over for dinner. If you pick, you pay. Simple.

Don't Go Into Debt For Your Friends

Do you have that one extravagant friend who throws around money like they're Jordan Belfort in "The Wolf of Wall Street?" One whose opulent weekend escapades are the bane of your credit card statement? You're not alone. 88% of millennials end up in some kind of debt because of that kind of friend, according to CreditKarma .

National Debt Relief reiterates that one of the most common reasons people stay in debt is out-of-control credit card spending. Despite this, many get locked into a FOMO mentality around their friends and a fear that they need to spend to "keep up with the Joneses," as it were. Anyone who's been in debt knows that it feels like bailing out a boat that's taking on more water than you can dump back out.

You can probably see where this is going. If your friends are planning a bombastic vacation (or successive, too-frequent vacations) that might require a second mortgage, just skip out on the trip -- whether they can afford that trip themselves or not. This might be prime time for a heart-to-heart conversation on money habits, just so that you avoid the impression that you're flaking out for other reasons.

Grab Group Discounts

Always look for group discounts. Yes, they do still exist, even if industry leaders like Groupon have veered more toward general discounts than things people can do together. Said discounts are most common when it comes to informal, off-the-books prices you would negotiate, such as hiring a private driver or a tour guide. Travel agents can work to secure private deals directly that net you more advantageous discounts than if you were to book the conventional way.

You can still find group discounts in a number of other ways on your own. Airlines sometimes offer up to 10% off provided you have a large enough group -- say, 10 people or more. The same may apply to hotels as long as you book a certain number of rooms. That said, many of these discounts are the sort you would get by haggling with airlines and hotel chains directly via their hotlines -- though keep in mind that you may be on the hook for non-refundable deposits and minimum stay requirements. Some businesses may give you further discounts if you categorize your trip as a retreat or a special event of some kind. It never hurts to ask, and the worst that can happen is the request is denied.

Cook Your Meals Together

It doesn't take an accountant wunderkind to understand that eating out will always be more expensive than cooking at home. Getting a decent burger in a restaurant  costs exponentially more than if you'd made it with your own two hands. Now multiply that by a dozen people and add a 20% gratuity. Goodbye, budget.

Look, we get it. No one likes the idea of cooking for themselves on a vacation. You're away from home and all your beloved cooking implements, so, you reason, you have a good excuse for racking up a ton of restaurant charges. For friends with varying incomes, though, this can quickly become a pain point. One man's McDonalds is another man's Guy Savoy.

Instead, take a trip to a local grocery store and buy enough to make a few meals -- or all of them for your trip's duration. Plenty of vacation rentals and Airbnbs come with fully functional kitchens. There's a good chance at least one of your friends is a maestro behind the saucepan, so you won't have to subsist on rice and salt. Plus, it doubles as an unforgettable group activity. Cooking together strengthens bonds and is arguably far more exciting than sitting around in a cramped, crowded restaurant where the food could be a total -- and expensive -- bust.

Consider Point Sharing

Credit cards are a no-brainer for the avid traveler, provided you've got a firm hand on excess spending. You accumulate points for any purchases you make, and those points convert into, effectively, free money when you redeem eligible purchases. Unless you've been institutionalized for uncontrollable spending, it's hard not to recommend a card that covers travel purchases.

One technique some friends have tried out is "point sharing." This is where you "gift" a vacation to a friend using your credit card points. Or, you subsidize a portion of the getaway and let them pay the remainder. It's a no-cost, minimum-guilt way to help a friend enjoy a vacation they can't afford. Some people have more points than they know what to do with, so it's better to put them to use than let them gather dust.

You can do the same with points for airlines and hotels. The only downside is that you can't literally gift your points to them. You'd need to make the purchase in their name and have them transfer you the difference.

Book Hostels

Your perspective on a hostel will vary wildly from that of the next person. For some, hostels are strictly the domain of backpackers headed across Europe with only a small wad of euros in their pockets. For others, they're a fun way to mingle with fellow travelers. And for the paranoid, they're a place rife with crime or an ideal setting for a horror movie. One thing they are, without a doubt, is cheap. There are some incredible hostels to stay in around the world , many costing less than $50 per night per person. If you can hold your nose at the idea of sleeping in the same room as some strangers, this is a bargain of an idea.

Many hostels offer cozy common areas perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or reading a book before turning in for the night. Some include great amenities such as pools, gyms, and restaurants, things that would make the average hotel skyrocket in price. Many even have chill backpacker bars for drinks and conversation. Plus, the floorplan of many hostels could allow your group to get a room to itself, one with a lock and key so you can leave your belongings behind safely when you go out for the day. There's also a good chance you'll run into budget-conscious people with their own travel secrets to share -- ones that will save your group even more money.

Read the original article on Explore .

When is the best time to visit Jordan?

Dec 6, 2023 • 4 min read

From the Dead Sea Coast to the Bedouin camps in Wadi Rum, this guide to seasons and events in Jordan can help you plan your perfect trip © RuslanDashinsky / Getty Images

Jordan is a small country packed with wonderful attractions and experiences but don't let its compact size fool you – covering the major sites in one trip is no easy task.

Though it's largely covered by desert, the weather is not uniform and varies depending on altitude, location and season. When choosing the best time to visit Jordan , you’ll need to first decide what’s most important to you. 

Two of the biggest factors to consider are the weather and your budget. Summers in Jordan tend to be hot and dry while winters are cold and wet – if you’re interested in outdoor activities, fall and spring are your best bet. However, the ideal weather means you can expect larger crowds and higher prices.

We've got all the information you need to make an informed decision about the best time for your trip to Jordan,  no matter your interests or budget.

March to May and September to November are the best times for outdoor adventures

These two windows of pleasant weather – between the cold winter rains and hot summer sun – are ideal for all things outdoors: touring historical sites, hiking, rock climbing, rooftop bars and sleeping under the stars. Other travelers and locals will be out and about too, so expect crowds and peak season pricing. If you’re traveling to Jordan in the fall or springtime, it’s wise to book well in advance.

March and April are the perfect times to take a hike, especially in northern Jordan where wildflowers – including the gorgeous black iris — are blooming. Fans of long-distance running flock to the area to take part in the Dead2Red marathon relay from the shores of the Dead Sea to Aqaba City on the Red Sea. The temperature rises in May but hasn't yet hit the dizzying summer highs. It's the perfect time to head to the beach and enjoy a relaxing break. 

The upside of intensely hot summers warming up the landscape is that the Red Sea is still deliciously warm when the mercury starts to drop in September. It's the perfect time for snorkeling and diving and these ideal conditions continue until November. The annual olive harvest begins in late September/early October and a multi-day tour is the perfect way to experience it alongside the local community – Experience Jordan and Engaging Cultures have some great bespoke options.

Much like springtime, fall is ideal for stepping out to enjoy the top things to do in Jordan , including its natural beauty, beaches, hikes and historical sites. Expect higher prices and crowds. Temperatures – and consequently, hotel rates – begin to drop in November. This brief shoulder season is a good time to take a diving holiday for those visiting on a budget.

December to February is the best time for budget travelers, but pack for wet weather

Although winter in Jordan is short, the weather tends to be cold and wet across most of the country (with the exception of a few pockets of slightly warmer weather in places like the Jordan Valley and Aqaba ), making this the least popular season to visit.

Jordan receives 75% of its annual rainfall during this time, and heavy downpours can cause site closures, tour cancellations and flash flooding, so you’ll need to be flexible with your itinerary and expectations. If you're booking a rental property, check that it has heating.

Create a bad weather backup plan: indoor activities such as art workshops, museum visits and cooking lessons are a great way to ride out the winter storms. The good news is that there are fewer visitors and lower prices, so if you want to visit Jordan on a budget, this is the time to do it. 

As the temperature starts to rise a little in February, locals leave their homes to attend the Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival – a celebration and preservation of Bedouin culture in the seaport city.

June to August are the hottest months of the year

Summer in Jordan can be uncomfortably hot (surpassing 38ºC/100ºF on some days), so outdoor activities are not as enjoyable and can even be risky if you’re not properly hydrated and protected from the sun. June is the time of year to seek shade and cool water in wadis (canyons) and waterfalls.

But summer isn’t a true “low” season because travelers from Gulf countries, where temperatures are even higher, seek respite in Jordan. However, you can still expect fewer crowds at tourist sites, so be prepared to start early, avoid the midday sun, and always have water and sunscreen on hand.

Foodies will be pleased to find that fresh fruits – including watermelon, figs and dates – are in season and readily available at roadside stands.  

Clear skies make August a perfect time for stargazing. Book an overnight stay under the stars in Wadi Rum or on the rooftop of Feynan Ecolodge . 

Ramadan is a meaningful time for cultural understanding 

The dates for this sacred month for Muslims shift every year. Services, hours of operation, alcohol sales and more might be affected during Ramadan. Before booking your trip to Jordan, check to see if your planned dates overlap and read  our practical guide to visiting Jordan during Ramadan .

It will help you know what to expect, and then decide whether it’s a fit for you. For those interested in learning about Jordanian and Muslim culture, Ramadan can be a meaningful time to visit.

This article was first published April 2022 and updated December 2023

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Best ways to get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to the Paris city center

Paris is one of Europe's most popular and most-visited cities, and for good reason. However getting into the city center from Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) can be tricky to navigate if you've never done it before.

Luckily the airport is fairly well connected and has a dizzying array of options to get you from A to B.

TPG has taken a look at your best options whether you're looking to take a train, bus or taxi.

Related: Paris Charles de Gaulle vs. Orly: Which airport should you fly into?

How to get to the city center from Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport

There are several different ways to get from CDG to the city center, such as by using trains, buses, taxis or ride-hailing services such as Uber.

Taking the train from CDG

CDG has two train stations: the Aeroport Charles de Gaulle 1, which serves Terminals 1 and 3, and the Aeroport Charles de Gaulle 2 TGV, which serves Terminal 2. Both are served by TGV and RER B trains, and both are great options depending on which Paris train station you need to reach.

Generally speaking, a one-way ticket from CDG to the city center should cost up to 11.80 euros ($12.81) for adults, depending on your final destination. Children under 5 travel for free.

Here's how to get from CDG to each of Paris' main train stations.

CDG to Gare du Nord

It takes around 25 minutes to go from CDG to Gare du Nord train station. To get there, you must take the RER B train toward Chatelet and exit at Gare du Nord, where you can also catch the Eurostar to further European destinations.

CDG to Gare de l'Est

To reach Gare de l'Est, you'll need to hop on the RER B from Aeroport Charles de Gaulle and exit at Gare du Nord; from there, you'll need to take a short walk over to Gare de l'Est. The journey takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the walking pace from Gare du Nord.

CDG to Gare d'Austerlitz

From CDG, you'll need to take the RER B train heading to Chatelet and then change at Gare du Nord onto line 5, headed for Place d'Italie. Then, get off at Gare d'Austerlitz. The journey should take around 50 minutes.

CDG to Gare Saint Lazare

You can reach Gare Saint Lazare by using the RER B train headed for Chatelet. You'll then want to change at Gare du Nord/Magenta and take the RER E going to Haussmann-Saint Lazare, getting off at Saint Lazare. The journey will take around 50 minutes.

CDG to Gare Montparnasse

Hop on the RER line B train heading to Saint-Remy-les-Chevreuse and get off at Saint-Michel Notre-Dame. From there, change onto Metro line 4, go to Bagneux-Lucie Aubrac and hop off at Montparnasse.

Taking the bus from CDG

Charles de Gaulle has RoissyBusy bus stops that can be found at terminals 1, 2 and 3, with several dropoff points in Paris. You can get a direct service straight to Opera. From there you can change to another bus or a Metro service to your final destination. It's roughly an hourlong journey; buses run frequently during the day and every 20 to 30 minutes after 8 p.m.

Take a taxi or ride-hail from CDG

Booking a taxi or a ride-hailing service like Uber is probably the quickest and easiest way to get from CDG to the center of Paris. You'll find taxis waiting outside all three terminals.

Taxis should be charged at a flat rate of 55 euros ($59.70) to the Right Bank of Paris and 62 euros ($67.29) to the Left Bank. You may be charged extra if you're traveling with more than four people and need a bigger vehicle.

How to reach Disneyland Paris from CDG

If you're heading to Paris specifically to visit Disneyland Paris , you can get there surprisingly quickly from CDG. The TGV train from the airport will take you straight to Disneyland in just nine minutes. Buses, including the Magical Shuttle and Eurolines, also depart from Terminal 2 E-F. This journey, similar to hopping in a cab, will take around one hour.

Bottom line

If you're flying into Charles de Gaulle, there are numerous ways to reach the city center (or Disneyland). Each has its merits depending on your budget and timing.

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Middle East latest: US believes Israel planning 'narrow and limited strike' inside Iran - report; Putin holds call with Iranian president amid escalation fears

Reports suggest US officials believe Israel is considering a "limited and narrow" strike inside Iran. It comes as Vladimir Putin calls for restraint during a call with Iran's president, amid fears of an escalation in hostilities. Listen to a Daily episode on Iran as you scroll.

Tuesday 16 April 2024 22:59, UK

• Israel-Hamas war
• US believes Israel planning 'narrow and limited strike' inside Iran - reports
• IDF says it has killed Hezbollah commander
• Putin asks for restraint in call with Iranian president
• Israel 'unhappy' with China's response to Iran attacks
• UN watchdog 'concerned' Israel could target Iranian nuclear facilities
• Dominic Waghorn: The coming hours could decide whether the Middle East is plunged into a widening war
• Michael Clarke analysis: All Israel's options for retaliation come with complications
• Live reporting by Emily Mee

The Ministry of Defence has commented on escalating violence in the West Bank, which increased following the death of a 14-year-old Israeli. 

The MoD said it was alarmed by the "shocking levels of violence" in the occupied area. 

"These killings, and subsequent actions, are escalating violence in the Occupied West Bank and the wider region at a critical time," it said. 

"It is vital that Israeli authorities restore calm and conduct urgent and transparent investigations into all deaths." 

Seven Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces or settlers since the attacks began on Friday, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. 

Israeli authorities have urged people not to resort to vigilante attacks. 

The Iraqi prime minister has said his country has not received any reports or indications that missiles or drones were launched from its territory during Iran's attack on Israel. 

Mohammed Shia al Sudani said Iraq's "position is clear" that it would not be "thrown into the arena of conflict". 

As we have been reporting, Iran launched more than 300 drones and missiles against Israel on Saturday. 

Iraq is a rare ally of both the US and Iran. 

Its airspace was a main route for Iran's unprecedented attack on Israel, and Iraqi officials say Iran informed them, as well as other countries in the region, ahead of the attack.

The IDF has released footage from the Israeli Air Force's control room during the attack from Iran over the weekend. 

Times of Israel military correspondent Emanuel Fabian said the footage showed the control room during the first interceptions of the Iranian missiles and drones. 

Iran fired more than 300 missiles and drones toward Israel, although minimal damage was caused. 

In a world that has grown more dangerous in recent years, the nightmare scenario of a Third World War is in the public consciousness.

Earlier this year, UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps warned the world could be engulfed by wars involving China, Russia, North Korea and Iran in the next five years, and said we are moving "from a post-war to pre-war world".

The relief felt at the end of the Cold War in the late '80s has been replaced with increasing alarm at Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and there is outcry at the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

Sky News spoke to experts about whether World War Three is a possibility - and if we really are living in a "pre-war world".

Read our article below to find out what they had to say... 

The two countries have agreed formally recognising a Palestinian state would help to end the current conflict.

At a joint news conference, Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob said: "The most important thing is that we have addressed a whole series of questions - when, not if, but when is the best moment to recognize Palestine." 

Mr Golob did not give a timeline for this, saying the matter did not depend on Slovenia and Spain alone but on other international factors.

However, he said Slovenia would vote in the United Nations Security Council for full membership of a Palestinian state. 

Spain has long been a champion of Palestinian rights and last month agreed with the leaders of Ireland, Malta and Slovenia to take the first steps towards recognising a Palestinian state.

Arab states and the European Union agreed at a meeting in Spain in November that a two-state solution was the answer to the conflict.

International peace efforts have long focused on creating an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, but these have been stalled for a decade. 

Since 1988, 139 out of 193 United Nations member states have recognised Palestinian statehood. 

A police vehicle has been struck in Gaza City, killing eight people, according to a report. 

The vehicle was thought to be helping with securing aid deliveries and maintaining order, Al Jazeera reports. 

The eight people killed were reportedly part of the law enforcement deployment helping in the Tuffah neighbourhood. 

The incident happened in the eastern part of the city, which is densely populated. 

Several pro-Palestine protesters have been arrested during a demonstration in Miami, Florida, local reports say. 

Demonstrators gathered across multiple US cities to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. 

Some protesters were reportedly dragged from the street by police after they tried to lie down and block traffic. 

The UN human rights office has called on Israel's security forces to immediately end their active participation in and support for attacks by Jewish settlers on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.

A string of settler attacks on Palestinian towns and villages in the West Bank have been reported in recent days.

The attacks ramped up following the alleged killing of a 14-year-old Israeli boy in what Israeli authorities said was a militant attack. 

Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli leadership are solely responsible for the recent escalating tensions in the Middle East, Turkey has said. 

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said Israel was "trying to provoke a regional conflict, and its attack on Iran's embassy in Damascus was the last drop". 

Iran said its attack on Israel at the weekend was in retaliation for a suspected Israeli attack on the Iranian consulate. 

Mr Erdogan told a news conference that new regional conflicts were possible while the "cruelty and genocide" in Gaza continued. 

He called on all parties to act with common sense. 

The Turkish president also criticised the West for condemning Iran's attack but not the Israeli strike on Iran's consulate. 

Lord Cameron will be heading to Israel overnight for a one-day visit, during which he will meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

He is also expected to meet his Israeli counterpart Israel Katz, an official told The Times of Israel. 

The British foreign secretary wants to discuss expanded humanitarian aid routes to Gaza, with a particular focus on opening the Ashdod Port and a new crossing from northern Gaza, the newspaper reported.

He will also discuss the Iranian missile and drone attack, tensions in Lebanon, and the hostage crisis. 

Senior Palestinian Authority officials will also meet Lord Cameron in Ramallah. 

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