travel planet jordania

kingdom of time

Jordan is a country of hikers and historians, scientists and artists, foodies and yoga-fiends. Whatever your tribe, you’ll find a kindred spirit here.

every moment, a treasure.

Explore a wide range of museums throughout the kingdom presenting the history and cultural heritage of Jordan.

carved by millennia. braved by you.

The Jordan pass is the ultimate sightseeing package that has been especially tailor-made for visitors to the country.

hike history. touch time.

a long-distance hiking trail in Jordan connecting the length of Jordan from Um Qais in the north to Aqaba in the south.

find your tribe.

A great collection of working steam locomotives, formerly used as part of a pilgrimage route and an intrinsic part of the Great Arab Revolt.

in the footsteps of myths and men.

One of the most lively and authentic parts of Amman consisting of fascinating historical sites of the Roman Theatre and Citadel.

life at your own pace.

The lowest point on earth and a natural wonder, is a warm, soothing, super salty water surrounded be desert beaches, mineral spas and oases.

Local Recommendations

Your tour to jordan via bright trip.

Everything you need to know to take your trip to the next level. In this free guide, you will learn how to travel Jordan with confidence and discover the best places to visit.

Experiencing Bethany Beyond the Jordan

Bethany Beyond the Jordan, a peaceful holy site, is a rare exception. A meditative place that is perfect for contemplation, exploration, and learning, this place is a hidden gem in the Holy Land. Read on to learn what it’s like to visit it today!

The Dead Sea Serenity & Sunshine

Time to unwind! If you’re looking to get pampered in a way unlike any other, then the Dead Sea is the spot for you. With a wide array of extravagant hotels and resorts, choosing to get your dose of relaxation here comes with its benefits.

72 Hours in Aqaba

When you think of Jordan, desert landscapes and age-old cities likely come to mind. Lesser known is this country’s southernmost resort town, where the red-brown mountains are cut off by a startlingly blue sea.

plan your trip now to experience the vibrancy of contrasts that is Jordan

The Jordan Pass

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The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Jordan

Your complete roadmap to exploring jordan.

So, you’re thinking about visiting Jordan? Excellent choice! This Middle Eastern gem is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan your dream trip to Jordan.

Why Visit Jordan?

Historical significance.

Jordan is a land steeped in history. From the ancient city of Petra to the Roman ruins in Jerash, the country offers a glimpse into civilizations that have shaped our world.

Natural Beauty

Ever heard of Wadi Rum? It’s like stepping onto another planet. The Dead Sea, on the other hand, offers a unique floating experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Cultural Richness

Jordanian hospitality is legendary. The local cuisine, music, and traditions make for an enriching travel experience.

Best Time to Visit

Weather conditions.

Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting Jordan, offering mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

Festivals and Events

Consider planning your trip around local festivals like the Amman Jazz Festival or Petra Desert Marathon to add a unique twist to your journey.

Visa Requirements

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival, but it’s always best to check the latest regulations before you travel.

Budgeting Your Trip

Accommodation.

From luxury hotels to budget hostels, Jordan has something for every traveler.

Food and Dining

Indulge in local dishes like Mansaf without breaking the bank.

Transportation

Public transport is limited, so consider renting a car for maximum flexibility.

Must-Visit Places

The “Rose City” is a must-see, with its intricate carvings and grand temples.

A paradise for adventure seekers, offering activities like rock climbing and desert safaris.

Don’t miss the chance to float in the saltiest body of water on Earth.

The capital city is a blend of modernity and tradition, worth exploring for at least a day or two.

Activities and Experiences

Adventure sports.

From scuba diving in Aqaba to hiking in Dana Nature Reserve, Jordan is an adventurer’s playground.

Culinary Experiences

Take a cooking class or visit a local market to dive deep into Jordanian cuisine.

Local Customs and Etiquette

Respect local traditions and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Tips

Jordan is generally safe, but it’s always wise to take standard precautions.

Packing Essentials

Don’t forget essentials like a good pair of walking shoes, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.

Itinerary Suggestions

A 7-day itinerary could include Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, with optional day trips to places like Jerash.

Recommend a tour company in Jordan

One Nation Travel specializes in offering the best Jordan tours , providing travelers with an unforgettable experience in this Middle Eastern gem. With expertly curated itineraries, you can explore the bustling capital city of Amman, marvel at the ancient wonders of Petra, and venture into the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum. Don’t miss the chance to float in the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, another highlight included in our comprehensive tour packages. With One Nation Travel, you’re not just visiting Jordan; you’re experiencing the best it has to offer.

Jordan is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure junkie, or someone looking to immerse yourself in a new culture, this guide has got you covered.

• Generally, yes. Just exercise common sense and take standard precautions.
• The Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is the local currency.
• In tourist areas and major cities, yes.
• It’s recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines, but consult your healthcare provider for specific advice.
• It’s better to stick to bottled water for safety reasons.

Top 3 Unmissable Tour Experiences in Jordan

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11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jordan

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 19, 2024

Jordan is a traveler's dream introduction to the Middle East. Safe and friendly, the destination gets travelers up close to world wonders and immerses them in world-class hospitality . You'll feel right at home once you slip into the culture of this easygoing country.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites abound in Jordan. Marvel at fading frescos in the 1,300-year-old desert castle of Quseir Amra . Climb red sand dunes and stand in the shadows of weathered sandstone in Wadi Rum 's humbling desert landscape . And plan to spend at least two days exploring Jordan's crown jewel attraction: Petra . The jaw-dropping sites in the ancient Nabatean city will leave you stunned – and eager to see more.

But Jordan's not solely rooted in the past. Its hilly capital, Amman , brims with bustling restaurants and cafés, swanky shopping, and impressive art galleries. Then, there's the Dead Sea – where you can kick up your feet after days of sightseeing and dig in to some much-needed pampering at the many luxe waterfront resorts.

Plan your vacation to the Middle East and see the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Jordan.

2. Dead Sea

3. wadi rum, 4. jerash ruins, 6. roman ruins in amman, 7. ancient mosaics of madaba, 8. wadi mujib, 9. desert castles, 11. mount nebo, map of tourist attractions in jordan, best time of year to visit jordan.

Prepare to be amazed by Petra. One of the New7Wonders of the World , this attraction has wowed modern-day visitors since the long-lost city's rediscovery by Swiss explorer Jean Louis Burckhardt more than 200 years ago.

You'll need at least two days to hit all the highlights around Petra, which include more than 800 registered sites . But if you have more time, you won't be disappointed spending it here. Wandering around a city this ancient in such a well-preserved state is an experience like none other.

Petra wastes no time impressing tourists. Immediately after the entrance, you'll see mysterious Djinn Blocks , imposing stone monuments whose original purpose still remains unknown, followed by the Obelisk Tomb. It's just a sample of the incredible sites to come.

From here, you'll make your way through the Siq – the famous snaking canyon pathway flanked by tall walls. Look along the walls to see the remnants of historic channels that were used to supply Petra with water, as well as niches for sacred carvings known as baetyls . These artifacts hint that Petra may have been considered a holy city at one point in time. Keep your eye out for the weathered relief sculpture of camels being lead by two merchants, as well.

Finally, you'll reach the unmistakable Treasury (also known as Al-Khazneh). Showcased in nearly every travel guide book and social media post about Petra, this attraction's Hellenistic facade is one of the most enchanting places to visit in Jordan. Legend has it that the rock-hewn monument, which was built as the final resting place for Nabatean King Aretas IV, was the hiding place for an Egyptian pharaoh's treasure at the time of Moses.

When it comes to things to do in Petra after the Siq and the Treasury, it's a choose-your-own adventure. Check out dozens of tombs and houses on the Street of Facades , climb steep stairs for a great view at the High Place of Sacrifice, stand in awe at the Theater and stroll down the impressive Colonnaded Street.

If your feet aren't too sore yet, make your way up the roughly 850 rock-cut steps to the legendary Monastery. The impressive structure, tucked in the hills, is well worth the journey.

If you thought Petra was incredible during the day, wait until you see it after dark. Reserve tickets to the Petra By Night show to see the Siq and the Treasury lit by more than 1,500 flickering candles.

Floating in the Dead Sea is a quintessential thing to do in Jordan. The lowest point on Earth accessible by road, this body of water is located at 418 meters below sea level. It practically glows an intense shade of aquamarine – a particularly striking sight next to salt-encrusted rock ledges and barren red mountains in the background. You can reach the attractions in the Dead Sea region in about an hour by car from Amman.

The Dead Sea is renowned for its mineral-rich water. Wellness devotees believe the water has healing properties for the skin. Don't plan to swim laps, though – the Dead Sea is so dense and salient that all you can really do is float atop the surface.

You can access the Dead Sea from a couple of entry points, including Amman Beach. Better yet, splurge on a stay at one of the plush spa resorts on the Dead Sea's northeast coast. They typically have private wading areas complete with buckets of Dead Sea mud. One bath with this red-brown sludge, and your skin will be softer than ever.

Hot tip: Avoid getting Dead Sea water in your eyes at all costs. The intense salinity (10 times saltier than the ocean!) stings worse than you can imagine.

Head to the southern region of Jordan, and you'll be treated to one of the most spectacular landscapes across the globe: Wadi Rum. Also known as the Valley of the Moon, this sandstone and granite rock valley is an otherworldly experience, with towering cliffs, massive dunes, swirling archways, and caverns. It served as the set for much of the 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia and was tagged a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011.

Adventure lovers, eat your heart out: The Zalabia Bedouin, a cultural group that lives in the area, have transformed the Wadi Rum into an ecotourism playground. You can ride camels or spirited Arabian horses through the area, strap on a harness and go rock climbing up the sandstone mountains, hike through canyons , and kick up sand on ATV tours .

Ask your tour guide to take you to the Khazali Canyon , where you can see petroglyphs of humans and antelopes that may date as far back as the 8th century BC.

Consider spending the night at one of the luxurious " glamping " (glamorous camping) sites in Wadi Rum. With almost zero light pollution, the park offers incredible stargazing opportunities . No wonder visiting Wadi Rum is one of the top things to do in Jordan.

Official site: http://wadirum.jo/

Nothing feels more like traveling back in time than visiting the Jerash ruins. It's one of the world's best-preserved ancient Roman cities and features spectacular places to visit, from colonnaded avenues and temples to a massive sports arena that once had a seating capacity of 15,000 spectators.

Tourists kick off their sightseeing adventure of the Jerash ruins by walking through Hadrian's Arch . The roughly 11-meter-tall structure is magnificent, but even more impressive when you consider it was originally double the size.

If that wasn't enough to wow you, wait until you explore what's ahead. The Hippodrome , a sports field constructed around the 2nd century, once hosted chariot races as entertainment for thousands of onlookers. The ancient sport is brought back to life through daily re-enactments, featuring fighting gladiators and chariots racing laps.

Another highlight of the Jerash ruins is the Forum. The oval-shaped plaza is lined by still-standing columns that give the space a regal feel. Climb the steps of the nearby Temple of Zeus to get an even better view of the colonnaded site. And imagine the performances that took place on the ornate stage of the South Theater . Jerash seems to have a fascinating ruin for everyone – explore to see which site is your favorite.

Hot tip: There's almost no shade in this archeological site. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a sunhat to keep yourself protected from the harsh rays.

Think you can't have a seaside vacation in the hot, dry Middle East? Think again. Aqaba, a beach town on the southern tip of Jordan, treats tourists to holidays on the breathtaking coastline of the Red Sea .

Float, swim, snorkel, or dive – you can do it all from Aqaba. You can also get out on the turquoise water on one of the daily cruises offered by local hotels. Enhance your beach vacation in Jordan with a soak in one of the lovely hammams around the resort town.

When you're feeling peckish, dig into the local specialty of Aqaba: sayadieh , a dish of fish on flavorful rice with onion, tomato, and chili pepper.

You don't have to go all the way to Petra to see fantastic archeological sites in Jordan. In fact, the capital Amman (where you'll probably arrive from abroad) is home to a variety of fascinating ruins, many of which are within short walking distance from one another.

Head downtown to see one of the most celebrated ruins: the Amman Citadel. Archeologists have found artifacts around the Citadel that suggest it has been occupied since at least the Bronze Age. Here, you can see the few columns that remain of the amazing Temple of Hercules , a significant Roman structure that was never completed. Look for the stone sculpture of several fingers, which were once part of a Hercules statue that may have been more than 12 meters tall. It hints at just how majestic this attraction was during its height.

One of the top attractions in Amman for history buffs is the Roman Theater. The restored amphitheater, which seats 6,000 people, dates back to when Amman was a Roman-ruled city known as Philadelphia, nearly 2,000 years ago. The attraction is still full of life, hosting many events and welcoming locals and tourists alike.

Nearby, tourists can visit the Nymphaeum , a Roman fountain that was built around the same time as the theater, as well as the smaller 500-seat theater, the Odeon.

After getting your fill of the ruins, see the vibrant culture of modern-day Amman with a sightseeing trip along Rainbow Street. The popular promenade boasts atmospheric cafés, fantastic people-watching opportunities, and souvenir shops galore!

While sightseeing in many destinations demands you look up, the opposite is true in the historic trading city of Madaba. The city is home to the "largest number of mosaics discovered in their original location in the world," many of which are located on the floors of churches and buildings around the city.

The relatively unassuming St. George's Church is home to one of the most noteworthy mosaics in Jordan: the Madaba Mosaic Map. The 6th-century map depicts the Holy Land during the Byzantine period, showcasing Biblical-era cartography. While some of the original two million tiles are missing, the remnants of the map still give you an excellent glimpse at what the Middle East looked like many centuries ago.

Visitors can see more mosaics at Madaba's two archeological parks. The open-air museum at Archaeological Park I contains a stunning geometric mosaic from the Church of the Virgin Mary – a site from the 6th century that was unearthed in someone's basement in 1887. This attraction also houses the oldest mosaic in Jordan , which dates back to the 1st century BC, as well as breathtaking carpet-like tile work of the four seasons and nature that was once in a Byzantine villa.

Tourists can see other impressive mosaics at Archaeological Park II, located in the ruins of a luxurious mansion from the early 6th century.

Stretching from the Desert Highway around 70 kilometers to the Dead Sea , Wadi Mujib is Jordan's answer to America's Grand Canyon. The river canyon, which is four kilometers wide and one kilometer deep, offers nature lovers the chance to explore unique scenery and see a plethora of wildlife, including Egyptian vultures, Nubian ibex, striped hyena, and the Syrian wolf.

There's great hiking through the Wadi Mujib gorge , if you don't mind getting a little wet. You can also head to the Mujib Reserve Biosphere to soak in picturesque hot springs just an hour and a half away from Amman.

Stretching from Amman to the border of Saudi Arabia, the Zarqa Governorate is home to a series of archeological sites known as the Desert Castles. These early Islamic buildings were erected by the Umayyads around the turn of the 7th century. Not quite castles in the traditional sense, the collection of structures consists of hunting lodges, forts, military citadels, bathhouses, and rest stops for caravans, among other types of buildings.

Rent a car and drive the Desert Castle Loop to visit the sites. You'll get the chance to see Quseir Amra , a squat building with interiors covered with beautiful frescoes; Quseir Hallabat , a Roman fort that features volcanic basalt rock and a well-preserved mosaic; Quseir Al-Kharanah, a castle-like structure that has dozens of rooms, but whose original function has been lost to history; and Azraq Castle , an ancient walled fort known as the place where T.E. Lawrence sought shelter in 1917-1918.

Situated just 20 kilometers northwest of Jerash , Ajloun makes a worthwhile trip for tourists who want to see some of the best natural scenery in all of Jordan. Plan to spend a day hiking around the Ajloun Forest Reserve , a 13-square-kilometer expanse of pristine, open woodlands. In the spring, the area is blanketed by wildflowers, which makes for spectacular photo opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for the crested porcupines and striped hyenas that live in the area.

Be sure to visit the Ajloun Castle on the summit of Mount Auf. It was built in the 12th century in the footprints of an even older Byzantine monastery to protect against the Crusader attacks. Its mountaintop location offers sweeping views of the Jordan Valley.

Mount Nebo is the crown jewel of Biblical sites in Jordan. According to the Old Testament, this mountain is said to be the place where Moses saw the Promised Land ahead of his death. Today, it's a spiritual attraction, with some of the country's best preserved mosaics from the 6th century, a Serpentine Cross , and the famous Moses Memorial Church.

Your ticket to the church includes access to Memorial Viewpoint, which has a small museum and views of the Dead Sea and Jerusalem on a clear day. But for more privacy with similar vistas, take a 100-meter walk on the road downhill from Mount Nebo and make a left toward the hilltop. It's the perfect spot for a picnic lunch.

The best time to visit Jordan is from March through June , during the country's beautiful spring season. It's considered high season in the destination, as throngs of tourists flock to Amman, Petra, and the Dead Sea to take advantage of spring's warm days and breezy nights.

The weather and climate of Jordan can vary considerably depending on where you are. In Amman , towards the north, tourists can expect perfect weather for sightseeing in the spring . It's still a bit chilly in March, with low temperatures in Amman dropping to an average of six degrees Celsius and highs typically hitting 17 degrees Celsius. Bring a light jacket if you plan to go sightseeing at Amman's incredible archeological attractions, like the Amman Citadel and the Roman Theater.

The relatively temperate spring weather makes it a great time of year for tourists to tackle parts of the Jordan Trail. The long-distance hiking trail stretches from Umm Qais to Aqaba for a whopping 675 kilometers. Hikers can trek through some 75 villages and towns on the trail, experience some of the country's best desert sightseeing, explore ancient ruins, and make stops at major attractions (including Petra ). While the entire trail takes about 40 days to hike, you can tackle certain segments over the course of a few days.

The capital warms up throughout the spring, and by June, the temperature in Amman ranges from 17 degrees Celsius at night to 30 degrees Celsius during the day. While you might get the occasional shower in March or April, it hardly rains in Amman from May through October . Take advantage of the sunshine to explore Rainbow Street and enjoy the city's lovely al fresco falafel joints.

Jordan also has another sightseeing highlight during the spring season: flowers. Head to the northern hills to see the Earth carpeted by brightly colored w ildflowers, and drive along the King's Highway for a glimpse of Jordan's national flower, the Black Iris, blooming along the roadside. Who knew the landscape of the Middle East could be this vibrant?

The best time to visit Jordan's biggest attraction – Petra – is also in the spring . It's typically a couple of degrees warmer than Amman. While the cool early spring temperatures make sightseeing in Petra more pleasant in Mach and April, tourists can enjoy 14 hours of daylight in June. The extra light gives you lots of time to venture beyond the Siq and Treasury and see some of Petra's other interesting attractions, like the Colonnaded Street and the High Place of Sacrifice. Ambitious (and fast-walking) tourists may even have time to climb the 850 rock-cut steps to reach the Monastery , one of Petra's most impressive structures, before the sun sets.

If you want to camp out in Wadi Rum , or simply enjoy the Valley of the Moon's amazing scenery and ancient petroglyphs on a day trip, plan to visit in early spring. The temperatures in March and April range from lows of 8 degrees Celsius to highs of 29 degrees Celsius . If you had to pick between the two months to visit Wadi Rum, go for May – it has a lower chance of precipitation that might otherwise rain out your adventures.

However, if you're drawn to the Red Sea and the beach town of Aqaba, you may want to visit earlier in the season, such as March or the beginning of April. You can expect temperatures to range from 14 to 18 degrees Celsius on the low end to highs of 27 to 31 degrees Celsius during this time of year.

By May, southern Jordan heats up to scorching temperatures – highs climb to an average of 36 degrees Celsius that month, and it regularly hits 40 degrees Celsius by July and August. It rarely rains in Aqaba, so if you visit in early spring, you can enjoy pristine beach weather and ample sunshine for snorkeling, swimming, and diving.

If you're in Jordan in early summer, you can experience one of the country's official public holidays, King Abdullah's Coronation Anniversary , on June 9. Events occur all over the country to commemorate the rise of the king and celebrate Jordan as a nation.

The Right Jordan Itinerary For You

March 22, 2022

Plan your perfect Jordan itinerary and enter a world of swirling red sand, ancient cities, stargazing skies and stories that will last several lifetimes. Pull up a chair, grab some cardamom coffee and let’s walk you through our Jordan travel guide.

Table of Contents

Finding The Right Jordan Itinerary for You

I love travel in Jordan. There, I’ve said it. I love the swirling red desert sand, the stargazing at night, and the dates and pomegranates at open markets. I love the raspberry ripple stone canyons of Petra, the childlike joy of floating in the Dead Sea and the philosophical power punch of visiting holy sites from long ago. But most of all, I love the welcome from people.

Through tea, sumac and spice, I’ve enjoyed this Middle Eastern country so much that I go back time and again. 

But when planning my first trip to Jordan, I didn’t know where to start. Jordan’s position in the Middle East means that a little planning is required when putting together your Jordan itinerary.

So here’s my guide to do just that. You can find all the more atmospheric stories about visiting Jordan over here and a guide to visiting the best places in the Middle East here.

In the meantime, let’s plan your itinerary for Jordan.

Jordan Itinerary At a Glance

• Arrive Amman
• See Amman and Jerash
• Explore Wadi Rum
• Hike through Petra
• Visit Kerak Castle and the Dead Sea
• See Mt Nebo, the Madaba Mosaics and Bethany Beyond the Jordan
• Head back to Amman

Jordan Itinerary Google Map

Jordan: one of the most interesting countries on earth…

Disclosure – I have travelled to Jordan many times, now, in partnership with Visit Jordan and Globus Travel on occasion. As ever, as always, I keep the right to write what I like here on the Lab. Otherwise, what’s the point? Also, if you book or buy through any of the links on this page then I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Cheers!

Why Visit Jordan

Where do I begin?! Jordan has not one, not two, not three but many more world class places that stand head and shoulders above the highlights of many other countries. 

First, and perhaps most famously, there is Petra. This hidden city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, buried in the rocks, was “rediscovered” by the world in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt . But local Bedouin had known about it, of course, for all this time. The view of the Treasury may be the most famous image of Jordan, but the Nabatean city extends for miles behind that. 

Then there is the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, with a saline concentration so high you can float on its waters. 

Jordan straddles part of the ancient Holy Land and so you can visit the site where Jesus was baptised, according to archaeologists and theologists alike, then conduct historical jigsaw puzzles with the mosaics of Madaba. 

Wadi Rum, though not as well known, carves deep red dunes into the camel stone of the desert. It is powerfully, poignantly beautiful. 

Then you have ancient Roman ruins, the oldest continuously inhabited city on earth, a range of fresh and flavoursome Jordanian food and a modern city with modern women running businesses from their home.

Phew. And do you know what else? I’m actually only getting started. Read about the best things to do in Jordan over here.

Now, let’s roll our sleeves up and get talking about practical travel tips for Jordan and work out how to plan the perfect Jordan itinerary for you!

How long do you need to visit Jordan?

You can comfortably hit the main sights with either a 7 day Jordan itinerary or a 10 day one. Of course, as a big supporter of slow travel and as someone who absolutely loves travel in Jordan, the longer the better if you can. More time will give you more opportunities to meet local people, hike off the beaten track and sample more of the food on offer.

But if time is tight, as it usually is, then you can still see a lot within a 7 day Jordan itinerary. 

Should you join a group or go it alone?

Should you travel independently or join a tour?

Ah, that’s a big question. Again, as a passionate supporter of independent travel in general, there are a few things to bear in mind about travel in Jordan. 

The first is the language barrier. In the popular tourist spots in the capital Amman and in the big resorts at the Dead Sea, Petra and Aqaba, you will find enough people who speak English to get by. 

However, in more rural areas, and even in other popular spots like Wadi Rum, you will find that without speaking Arabic, it’s going to be difficult to work out what to do. Even if you blunder through to success (another method I enjoy on occasion) you will miss out on conversations with people, and that’s a shame because meeting new people is one of the best things to do in the Middle East. 

With a tour, you will be travelling with a guide and interpreter and can learn much more about how Jordanian society works and interact with people more easily. 

The second issue to consider involves the borders with Jordan’s neighbours. Jordan borders Iraq, Syria, Israel and Saudi and these are all borders with geopolitical significance – and often military guards. While Jordan itself is a very safe country to travel through, a blunder onto the wrong side of a border with the wrong paperwork is not a safe situation to find yourself in. 

For these two reasons, I’d highly recommend travelling with a guide, at least outside the capital of Amman. 

Globus Jordan Escape group walking through downtown Amman

Should you join a group trip?

So, onto the next question. Should you hire a private guide and driver? Or join a group tour?

Let’s talk about the pros and cons of joining a group tour, based on my recent trip to Jordan with Globus Escapes.

• You save an enormous amount of time! Calculating drive times, checking opening times, coordinating permits and border permissions, booking hotels, comparing rates, looking for parking, checking visas, checking safety recommendations. Sheesh! When someone does all that for you, you save a lot of time. 
• You get company! Sure, you’re unlikely to become best friends with everyone, but in a group of more than about six people, you’re bound to find someone you like. I’ve made lifelong friendships from people I met travelling. Plus, even with more casual acquaintances, it’s nice to have people to meet at breakfast, to look after your bags and, well, in general look out for each other.   
• You get access to things that are difficult to arrange on your own.  This partly depends on the company (and I’ve travelled with some bad ones!) But Globus really made the effort to take us to places that would be difficult on your own. Sustainable travel places, like the Bait Khairat Souf and a family homestay meal in Wadi Musa. Not all of these excursions are included in the tour price but it was always clear in advance when that was the case. And they were all absolutely worth it.
• You get access to rich background information. Travel on your own and you’re with your own thoughts for the journey. Travel with Globus and you have a local guide filling you in on the background of the country, from how to tie the keffiyeh headscarf to deciphering marriage traditions, from bellydancing to mineral exports and everything in between. Do make sure this is the case, though. I have travelled with other tour companies where the guide is an enthusiastic fellow traveller just reading material from a worksheet. Globus always uses professional local guides.
• You get help if things go wrong. This is priceless. Especially during coronavirus times. Not only do you have access to someone who can speak the local language right in front of you but they also know the country and how it works. In our group alone, our guide tracked down lost electronics, sorted out health problems and provided advice for border crossings.
• Your interpreter can help you get to know people. One of the best things about the Middle East, or perhaps travel in general, is meeting people from different backgrounds to you. But that’s hard to do, sometimes, when you can’t speak the language. Having a Globus guide, for example, meant I could ask away and connect on a deeper level.
• You get off to the right start. I never fail to enjoy the treat of someone meeting me at the airport. In Jordan, with Globus, they meet you before you pass passport control and help with your visa application as well. Then, instead of haggling with waiting taxi drivers and wondering whether or not you’re being ripped off, you simply step into your waiting transport and are whisked off to your comfortable hotel. A great start to a journey. 
• It’s much less stressful. T his point really builds on all the others. But you know that if something goes wrong while on the trip, it’s not your problem alone to fix it. You know that you are travelling with professionals who know the area and the language. If you get caught up in traffic, they will know the short cut and be able to call ahead to say you’re running late. If something worse happens, well, again, you have backup. It’s liberating.
• You can have some down time. Shhh. This is a bit of a strange one but I’ll say it anyway. When you travel with a private guide, there’s often a social expectation that you are both chatting all the time, which can start to feel a little awkward. Sometimes, it’s nice to be able to give your mind a break or close your eyes on long journeys. When you travel on a group tour, you can drift in and out of conversations, giving your mind some much needed rest.
• The size of the group makes some thing difficult. The more people there are, the longer the toilet breaks take, and the same for shopping trips, photo stops, snacks and everything else. Groups can’t visit small eateries and it’s harder to initiate authentic interactions with local people with a group of 30 behind you. Plus, if decisions go to a vote, chances are you won’t get your first choice. That’s just the way democracy works!
• If you miss something, you miss it. T ravel on your own and if you feel unwell, you can often pause and try again the next day. With a group, there’s no chance for that. The group moves on and you have to rejoin them when you can. 

Having said all that, you can easily overcome many of the cons with a little initiative. You can peel off to arrange some meals on your own or leave the main tour to pick up a smaller one, if you wish. With Globus, we did this in Wadi Musa near Petra. A smaller group of us left the buffet one evening to dine in a family home. The next morning, we hired a guide to hike a different route into Petra. The key lies in good communication so that the rest of your group aren’t left confused and hanging around!

If you decide not to book through a group trip, then check out the Jordan Pass. I t may help you arrange your sightseeing.

Osama: fabulous guide

Travel in the off season, beat the crowds…

The Globus Escapes Concept

• Escapes by Globus have a genius idea: they take place during the off season. This way, you avoid temperature extremes, are less likely to be jostling nose to armpit with crowds of tourists and, yes, the tours cost less as prices are lower in the off season.
• This was my first experience of a Globus Tour but I found myself travelling with many, many people who had travelled with them before and who had booked this trip just as soon as they’d got home from their last Globus adventure.
• Our guide, Osama, was outstanding in his level of knowledge, degree of helpfulness and, crucially, sense of humour and joie de vivre.
• Our group was mostly 40 plus and for those travelling solo, they waive the single supplement.

Bookmark these Jordan travel itineraries and this Jordan travel guide on Pinterest to read later.

Your 7 day Jordan Itinerary

This Jordan itinerary is based on the Jordan Globus Escapes plan. I’ve mentioned some extras that you can add in along the way and at the end, I’ve offered some alternative 10, 8, 5 and 3 day Jordan itineraries. 

Day One – Jordan Itinerary

Arriving in Amman…

 Arrival into Amman

Amman is a bewitching city, with its ochre-white walls and calls to prayer mixing with trendy coffee shops, design, art and innovation. It’s not the most beautiful capital in the world but it is one of oldest: the Ghazal figures at the Citadel museum mark  the oldest representation of people in the world. 

If you arrive early and have time to spare, then you can find an easy introduction into life in Jordan by wandering along the coffee shops and restaurants on internationally minded Rainbow Street. But if you’ve had a long flight, take it easy on yourself on day one. Rest and save your energy for later.

Where to sleep : The Kempinski Hotel Amman

• Try a daytime meal at the eco-conscious Wild Jordan and enjoy the view across to the Citadel.

Day Two – Jordan Itinerary 

Amman & jerash.

Now we’re getting started! Spend the morning travelling back to the past in Amman. ( See also more ideas for Amman here. )

Remains of Hercules at the Amman Citadel

The Amman Citadel

If you want to feel young, head to the citadel. Perched on one of the seven hills or jabals in Amman, this dry and dusty place has seen civilisations come and go like waves on a shore. First was the Neolithic period, then the bronze age. The Ammonites, neo-Assyrians, neo-Babylonians, Ptolemies, and Seleucids roamed around and that’s all before the Romans arrived in around 100 BCE. 

The temple of Hercules is the site’s most famous set of ruins, the hand elbow and, er, other body part lying unceremoniously in the rust red earth. 

The unassuming museum houses artefacts from throughout time, including the Ghazal figures: mankind’s first artistic representation of himself (or herself, who knows?)

The Old Town

From the solitude and windswept stone of the citadel, head to the warmth and bustle of Amman’s Old Town. If you have your heart set on anything Aladdin-like then here’s your best shot. Piles of spices, hanging fruit, glittering gold in shop windows and fluttering fabric in the breeze. 

• Top tip: try some crumbling, hot and sinful knafeh at Habibah Sweets in the Old town. It’s one of the best things to do in Amman! If I ever start a Jordan travel blog, this will be the very first food entry…

Lunch: Bait Khairat Souf

Now, the Globus Jordan Escape team organised this lunch: it’s not a straightforward place to reach independently. But I’m writing about it here because of three important reasons:

• It disproved my idea that group meals on tours tend to be bland and divorced from local traditions
• The story behind Bhait Khairat is one that deserves to be heard
• The food tasted good!

Set in beautiful gardens, with flowering petals, small fountains and a canopy of green, the Bait Khairat Souf is a women’s cooperative supported by the Queen Al Noor foundation. Food is largely home grown and definitely home cooked and it provides options for local women to develop skills, friendships and economic independence.

There are Roman ruins. And there are Roman ruins. 

Forget the odd mosaic, baths or villa you might find lying around in the UK. Jerash is an entire city. Just 45 minutes from Amman, the columns and colonnades sprawl in a leisurely fashion from Hadrian’s Arch for mile after mile, making it one of the best preserved Greco-Roman ruins in the world. 

And just to make you wonder if you’re losing a grip on reality, you’re also likely to catch a bagpipe show in the amphitheatre. 

Yes, forget everything you ever knew. Bagpipes do actually originate from the Middle East, not Scotland. 

How’s that for an impressive and little known fact?!

Bagpipes: not from Scotland after all…

Nothing breaks through barriers faster than eating and drinking together

Learn to cook at Beit Sitti

Get to work for your evening dinner at the fabulous Beit Sitti cooking class, run in a home by the lovely Maria. I first met Maria ten years ago on one of my earliest assignments. Post Covid, I was thrilled to see that her business had survived and elated when she recognised me the moment I walked through the door. Read more about that story and her delicious Jordanian recipes here.

This experience isn’t part of the standard Globus tour (as all 30 people can’t fit in her house) but you can add it to your Jordan itinerary by heading directly to the Beit Sitti website.

Where to sleep: The Kempinski Hotel Amman

Day Three – Jordan Itinerary

Day three – wadi rum.

On the face of it, a visit to Wadi Rum doesn’t sound all that enticing. You go, you see the desert, you leave. 

Once you go and you see the desert, I’d bet eighteen camels you don’t want to leave. Because it is absurdly beautiful. Richly stunning. Imagine untouched ski slopes rising and falling around you, except replace white snow with burned red sand. Picture the sky a lavender blue and the wheels of the jeep gliding over the landscape, a breath, a sigh of wind in your hair. 

Imagine an undulating kaleidoscope of those blues and oranges and purples, rising and falling, shifting and drifting. Then stop for tea or cardamom coffee in a blood striped tent, the traditional way. 

Yeah. I know what you’re thinking…

Ride camels in Wadi Rum

Of course, you could go all out for tradition and hike your backside up onto a cantankerous camel. Those images may look serene but I can assure you that the reality is anything but (or butt.)

Yes, dear readers, after years of riding camels across the desert sands in many countries, I can tell you that those days are over. The lurch and swing, the projectile snot, the abrasive hide. 

But, you know. Try anything once etc.

Beyond the sand and the camels, you’ll also find yourself sifting through the complicated legacy of Lawrence of Arabia. Not just a Peter O’Toole movie, the real Lawrence (T.E Lawrence) did indeed exist, befriend the Bedouin and fight against the Turks. But the legacy beyond that is complicated, to say the least. Amid the conundrums, today’s Bedouin take you to see a somewhat questionable  carving of his likeness in the rock.

• Inside tip: make sure your legs are covered if you plan on riding a camel. Just saying…

Dinner in a Bedouin home

Now, depending on who you ask, Bedouin are people who live a nomadic life in the desert. Or those who did until recently but who now have a permanent home but who have maintained the traditions of their communities and people. 

And one of the most moving experiences of the trip was the invitation to dinner in Ameena’s home, with her children and their uncle, Sohaeb. More about that later!

Where to sleep:  the Mövenpick Resort Petra right by the entrance to Petra

The Monastery in Petra

Day Four – Jordan Itinerary 

Petra. This is the jewel in the crown, the sandwich in the picnic, the meat in the sandwich (sorry veggies.) Even before you know what it is, I’ll be you you’ve seen that image of Petra, the face of the Treasury peering between the raspberry ripple rocky gorge. 

Petra is simply outstanding. No matter how many times you visit, you’ll always find something new. It’s like London, only prettier. If a man is tired of London, he is tired of life. If a woman is tired of Petra, she needs to have a word with herself. Basically.

However you plan your itinerary through Jordan, whether through Globus, another tour or through someone else, I would highly recommend this: make sure you rise and fall with Petra. That is, arrive the night before and give your aching, hardworking, unsuspecting muscles the chance to recover by staying the night after as well. 

The site of Petra is huge. Vast. Enormous. Gigantic. In the words of my nursery age daughter, a million, billion years big. 

Even if all you do is walk from the entrance to the Treasury and turn back, you will have walked four kilometres. And missed the point, to be honest. 

The famous approach to the Treasury

Understanding Petra

Petra is an ancient city, built by the Nabateans and extending over 102 square miles. It has columns and colonnades, an amphitheatre, tombs, marketplaces, mysteries and the awe-inspiring Monastery. 

And it has been made more accessible over the years and over my visits. The rough stony approach to the Treasury is now a smooth concrete path. Golf buggies now buzz where horses used to roam. This is great for those with mobility issues. 

For those without, it’s worth pulling on the hiking boots, slapping on the sunscreen and dosing up on your mojo to hike at least to the Monastery. 

It’s hard to provide a sense of just how big the complex is. And it’s definitely worth visiting with a guide, to get a sense of who the Nabateans were.

Petra by night: serenity by candlelight.

Petra by Night

An optional extra to Petra is the evening experience known as Petra by night. Personally, I think it’s utterly beautiful, a constellation of stargazing, candlelight and folk music in front of the majestic Treasury of Petra itself. But for those who expect a blaring, glaring light and sound show, you’ll be disappointed. Read more about my thoughts over here: is Petra at night worth it?

• Inside Tip – When it comes to visiting Petra, Globus Escape has the right idea. When I visited during the summer heat, my lasting memory is of collapsing into bed with black dots battling with stars in my head. And I was ten years younger. Simply put, Petra is best visited in the off season.
• Where to sleep:  the Mövenpick Resort Petra  right by the entrance to Petra

Day Five – Jordan Itinerary

 kerak, wadi majib and the dead sea.

OK, OK. Today you can relax. After a hard day hiking through Petra, the fifth day of this Jordan itinerary sees you spend a recuperating amount of time on the road. (What some inspiration? Check out these fun road trip questions for grown ups. )

But in between watching camels slide by through the window and listening to your guide talk about the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, you will have a few key stops. 

Kerak castle

Everyone who’s heard of Robin Hood, Prince John and Richard the Lionheart has heard of the Crusades, albeit vaguely. But of course, these weren’t the background scene of a Nottingham legend but a real series of conflicts held around the Holy Land in the Middle Ages. 

Kerak Castle helps to put some context into the period, through its dungeons, windswept battlements, stables and broad views of the cream and russet countryside. It’s one of the largest and best preserved castles from the Crusader Period. Built in 1140, it changed hands several times in very many bloody, messy ways. Today, though, it’s a peaceful spot and the restaurant just outside serves beautiful refreshing mint and lemon drinks.

Wadi Majib (or Wadi Mujib) is a deep canyon cuts through rust red rock with a sense of passion and drama. It’s also a hotspot for adventure sports and canyoning (you can have a good laugh at a retro video of a younger me canyoning in Wadi Majib right here.)

On the Globus Jordan itinerary, though, you don’t have to splash yourself through that. You drive down, across, and up the gorge, stopping for photo spots but nothing more arduous.

Then it’s on to the lowest point on earth: the Dead Sea.

The Dead Sea

Glistening between Jordan and Israel, the Dead Sea sits at 427 metres below sea level and, well, is a lake rather than a sea. Despite the off-putting name (it’s the fish who can’t survive, not the people,) it’s become a popular place for spa resorts. Each weekend, Jordanians leave the capital of Amman and head to the Dead Sea, slathering themselves in mud for a youthful complexion and watching a bellydancer for, well, reasons unknown. 

Three times, now, I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Dead Sea and each time has been a blast. There’s something faintly ridiculous, no boldly ridiculous, about covering yourself in mud and bobbing about like a drunken penguin. The high salinity means you can’t sink but you sure as anything can’t swim either. 

Bluntly put, the Dead Sea is a wonder of the world and an absolute must on any Jordan itinerary.

• Where to sleep: the Mövenpick Dead Sea Resort and Spa
• Tip: don’t shave before getting into the Dead Sea. It will sting like crazy! Find out why and uncover some other interesting facts about the Dead Sea over here.

It’s a busy day – you need to move fast!

Day Six – Jordan Itinerary 

Mt nebo, madaba, bethany beyond the jordan.

Today is a busy day. One which spans thousands of years, scales a mountain, views the promised land and, well, puts your feet on the earth where world-changing events took place. 

Wherever you sit on the religious spectrum, there’s absolutely no denying that the events that took place here had monumental, far reaching consequences for the world at large. Consequences that continue to this day. 

Because in just a few square miles, you can stand on the spot where Jesus was baptised and also on the mountain where Moses saw the promised land of Israel. 

If you believe, the significance is obvious. If you don’t, it’s perhaps more powerful to stand and wonder why these places, why these stories achieved the global fame and far reaching consequences that they did. 

And in either case, to visit is to witness a striking contrast to what you see on the news: soldiers chatting in the sunshine on the West Bank. And Muslims and Jews paying to protect sites that matter to Christians. 

But enough chatting. Let’s talk about what you can see. 

His Excellency Rustom Mkhjian, Director of the Baptism Site

Powerful thoughts…

Bethany Beyond the Jordan

We arrived in Bethany Beyond the Jordan in an appropriately biblical downpour of rain. Greeted by the Director of the Baptism Site Commission , His Excellency Rustom Mkhjian, we walked through the archaeological ruins and remains that suggest that this area was the place of ministry for John the Baptist. 

Then you move to the baptism site itself. The place where historians tend to agree was the original baptism site of Jesus, and the pivotal moment where He began His teachings. 

A tiny stream trickles through a cross-shaped grave of mud and the noise sounds livelier and more energetic than it looks. In the Bible, Jesus is baptised in the River Jordan, which is not, of course, this. But experts agree that the river has changed course over the last two thousand years or so and other archaeological remains almost unanimously suggest that this is the place. 

But not entirely unanimously. Just a little way further along, you can visit the Jordan River, which separates Jordan from the West Bank. Various irrigation systems upstream have siphoned off the water, so what sounded like the Hudson or Thames in biblical times is now around the size of a country road.

Still, people attend on both sides for baptism and a beautiful church, resplendent in the breaks of sunshine between the clouds, also celebrates the site.

Madaba: famous for mosaics but there’s more to the story than that

Just along the road in Madaba, the word on the street is mosaics. In fact, the mosaics were the streets in Roman times which, of course, were also the times when Jesus and John the Baptist were roaming around. 

The most famous mosaic in Madaba is the 6th century depiction of the Holy Land in the Greek Orthodox Church of St George. It’s worth visiting, not only for the mosaic, but also to witness the practice of Christianity in a Muslim country. 

Just along the road is the Church of the Virgin Mary, which I missed on my first visit to Madaba (thanks again Globus for the heads up!) 

Inside, you’ll find mosaic after mosaic after mosaic, well, you get the picture. 

But it’s worth seeing them. See why the mosaics of Madaba matter more than you think here.

It gets cold and windy up here!

Sunlight marks the Promised Land…

From the peak of Mt Nebo, God showed Moses the Promised Land of Canaan. And standing on that peak, even amid the wind and rain, the whole idea makes sense. For while we stood battered and smattered by the elements, a golden expanse of sunshine seemed to breathe with ease over the land of today’s Israel. 

Beyond the viewpoint, you’ll find a memorial, a small museum and a covered selection of more mosaics. They are all interesting in their own right but it’s the view from the mountain itself that makes this a world class visit. 

The Dead Sea (again)

In the Globus Jordan itinerary, you head back to the Dead Sea spa for the night because, why not?! It’s fun!

Alternatives would involve travelling back to Amman to cram in a few more city sights before you fly.

• Inside tip: leave all your preconceptions behind. Respect and reverence and an open mind make for getting the best and the most out of this day.

Sad to say goodbye…

Day Seven – Jordan Itinerary

Leave from amman.

Depending on your flight time, you can either spend the day lazing by the side of the Dead Sea… or get up at the crack of dawn to hot foot it to the airport. 

That’s it! Your seven day Jordan itinerary has come to an end. Want more time? Check out the other Jordan itinerary suggestions below…

10 day Jordan Itinerary

With 10 days in Jordan, you can expand some of the stops on the 7 day Jordan itinerary but follow the same basic loop of the plan. Spend a night in Wadi Rum, two in Petra and in the warmer months, head further south to Aqaba.

• Explore Wadi Rum – stay overnight
• Hike through Petra and Little Petra – 2 nights in Petra
• Head to Aqaba
• Return via Kerak Castle and the Dead Sea

8 day Jordan Itinerary

For an 8 day Jordan itinerary, follow the outline above but spend one night in Wadi Rum or at the Dana Biosphere Reserve mid trip.

• Explore Wadi Rum 
• Stay in the Dana Biosphere Reserve

5 day Jordan Itinerary

With 5 days in Jordan, time is tight! I’d suggest cutting the Kerak Castle day and combine Petra and Wadi Rum into one day. It will be a squish but you can just about pull it off. 

• Explore Wadi Rum & Petra
• See the Dead Sea, Mt Nebo, the Madaba Mosaics and Bethany Beyond the Jordan

3 day Jordan Itinerary

With only three days in Jordan, instead of a week in Jordan, then something has to go. Head straight from Amman to Petra, then to Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea and then back to Amman to fly home.

• Arrive Amman and head straight to Petra
• See Petra and Wadi Rum
• Back to Amman via the Dead Sea

More options to add to your Jordan itinerary

With more time, you can see more! Here are more details about the activities mentioned above.

Stay overnight in Wadi Rum: Hot air balloon ride in the morning

Once you’ve seen Wadi Rum, you’ll want to stay. At night you can see the stars in a perfectly dark sky. And early in the morning, you can head into the air in a wicker basket, powered simply by raw fire. You can watch my hot air balloon ride in Wadi Rum on YouTube here.

Hit the coast in Aqaba in the south

Jordan may have a small sliver of a coastline but it likes to make the most of it. Aqaba in the south borders the Red Sea, with plenty of rainbow fish to keep snorkellers and divers happy. It’s also a good spot for windsurfing. Bear in mind that winters are cool, however, so plan to visit Aqaba during the warmer months.

Go stargazing in the Dana Nature Reserve 

Hidden in the Dana Biosphere Reserve is one of the most forward-thinking eco lodges in the world. Built on an abandoned archaeological site, you can stargaze at night in a pollution free sky. You can also hike through the reserve or take a driving tour through Roman mines and sit and have coffee and homemade bread with Bedouin people who live on the land. 

It’s a special place to visit and you can read my full account about the Feynan Ecolodge here.

Hike Little Petra

Little Petra, in virtually any other setting, would be big news. Somewhat overshadowed by nearby Big Petra, Little Petra also represents Nabatean city life set in a sandstone canyon. Its name in Arabic is Siq al-Barid, meaning the cold canyon, and it does offer plenty more shade than the bigger version.

Hike the off the beaten track routes in Petra

You could honestly spend a week hiking through the ancient city of Petra. And indeed, that’s what keen hikers do. 

But if you’re not in a position to spend another seven days away from the desk, you can spend one day exploring different parts of the site. You don’t have to join the crowds and walk straight from the visitor centre to the Treasury. With the right guide, you can hike straight to the Monastery, via the back route. Other options include four hour excursions to those stunning viewpoints seen on instagram.

• See also travel tips for how to get off the beaten path.

Fresh oranges and pomegranates hanging in Amman Old Town

Spend extra time in Amman

You could fill 3 days in Jordan with nothing but an Amman itinerary to soak in a sense of the country. In particular, I’d recommend the following highlights:

The Royal Automobile Museum

Car lovers will fall head over heels in love with the Royal Automobile Museum. But the rest of us? It’s more interesting than you may think. Amid the shiny metal and scent of rubber, you’ll find the whole history of the modern state of Jordan told through news archive and, well, automobiles. It’s the first time I’ve seen engineering history combined with humanities and, well, it’s a success!

Ride like a king!

When we left the Royal Automobile Museum, we couldn’t help but notice that our trusty tour bus had been replaced. By a fleet of vehicles from the King’s personal collection, complete with royal guards. They were assembled to take us back to our hotel!

Now, this isn’t something that you can arrange but I mention it because it reminds me of the joys of travel: you really never know what will happen in a day. 

The Iraq Al Amir Women’s Cooperative

Just 20km southwest of Amman, so perfect for a leisurely day trip, you’ll find the Iraq Al Amir Women’s Cooperative. Here, cooking and crafts workshops take place within ten renovated historic farmhouses. They in turn overlook the Qasr Al-Abd archaeological site which dates back to 200BC and the Hellenistic era of Hyrcanus the Tobiad.

This beautiful spot provides home-cooked meals and sells hand crafted ceramics and pressed flowers. 

Lina from Divergent Traveler in the Amman Art Gallery

The Jordan Gallery of Fine Arts

To get a sense of where a nation is right now, you can’t beat visiting a modern art gallery. The Jordan Gallery of Fine Arts curates work from across the Middle East in a series of white, light, beautiful exhibition spaces. It also has a wonderful multicolour balcony space that overlooks the neighbourhood outside (plus a cafe, always good to find coffee.)

As an extra Globus plus, we met with Suhail Baqueen, founder of the Darat Suhail Art Center where he runs the Scent of Color programme. There he pairs colours with scents (pink with rose, lemon with yellow, orange with, well, yes, orange and so on) allowing visually impaired students to create visual art.

Travel in Jordan makes you feel alive!

Frequently Asked Questions About Jordan

Whenever you’re planning a Jordan trip, it’s important to ask yourself the following questions:

When is the best time to visit Jordan?

Summers in Jordan are hot, hot, hot and that heat can feel crushing when you’re spending the day hiking through Petra or beneath the burning desert sun in Wadi Rum. 

Jordan’s most popular seasons, therefore, are spring and autumn: the months of March to May and September to November. During those months, Jordan’s heat has faded but the skies are still a sun kissed golden warm. 

However, there is another time to visit, as I discovered on my Globus Escape. Their Escape tours prioritise travel during the off season when prices are lower and crowds are thinner. And it worked. We saw the beautiful ruined cities of Petra and Jerash with few tourists for company. And the tour prices are, on average, 30% cheaper than during the high season. 

Of course, if you travel in the off season, you need to be aware that it can be cold. It’s unusual but possible for snow to fall on Petra, for example. And exposed places like the top of Mt Nebo and the Citadel in Amman, you will need to wrap up warm with the full works: hat, scarf, gloves, waterproof. 

It’s also a great season for seeing the more authentic side of Jordan. And with fewer tourists around, people are more relaxed and likely to stop and chat. 

What to eat in Jordan

Food is a big, feasting, sharing tradition in Jordan and it comes with plenty of fresh salads, hummus and flat breads. You can read more about Jordanian food here , including recipes, but expect plenty of cardamom coffee, baba ghanoush, rice and meat based dishes like mansaf and the hard white yoghurt of lebneh. 

Vegetarianism is still seen as a quirky curiosity across most of the country but it shouldn’t be too difficult to find meat free options. 

If you’re travelling on a Globus Tour, then most evening meals will involve a buffet in one of the four and five star hotels. This will offer plenty of local options but also some international food, in case the saffron and sumac is getting too much. 

On the other hand, if you’re feeling more adventurous, then you can ask your guide to arrange a home visit or cooking class for you (for an additional charge) in the evening. 

Lunchtimes are a mix between large restaurants that cater for large groups of tourists or off the beaten path co-ops that burst with local traditions and flavours.

If you’re travelling independently, of course, you can choose whichever you wish. Although, bear in mind that some of the cooking classes and home visits rely on personal introductions, often through tour companies, so you may find your options more limited than they first appear.

What about dietary restrictions in Jordan

In general, the Jordanian customs are extremely hospitable and people will try to cater for your needs. That said, it’s still not that common to present vegan, gluten free and lactose free options as a matter of routine. As always, travel with a translated version of what you need to ask about, remain calm and polite and bring your own snacks, just in case.

What to wear in Jordan

It’s natural to be slightly concerned about what to wear in Jordan – and in fact I’m going to write a whole new post about it. 

Certain parts of the country, particularly in the desert, are extremely conservative and there you will see women fully covered with a headscarf and burqa. In Amman, on the other hand, don’t be surprised to see women in skin tight leather trousers and slouchy sweaters with their hair loose. 

So what should you do?

In short, it’s best to wear loose clothes that go down to your wrists and ankles. Girls, it’s handy to have a scarf with you for visiting holy sites (and sheltering from the rain) but other than that, it’s rarely necessary. Keep shoulders and cleavage covered and avoid slits in skirts and dresses.

Is Jordan safe?

In short, yes. While nowhere is perfect, Jordan has had a stable government for many years. The main places that tourists will visit are far from the borders with places in conflict. The police presence is visible and the level of street harassment is very, very low, even from hawkers. As a solo female traveller , I’ve walked around Rainbow Street and Downtown Amman on my own with no trouble at all.

Is it a good idea to travel to Jordan with kids?

Yes and no. While I’m a passionate supporter of family travel and write about plenty of family travel itineraries, there are a few things to bear in mind about Jordan. Firstly, Petra is huge and is best enjoyed by walking around. Secondly, the Dead Sea isn’t fun to splash around in: all that salt hurts! Finally, the desert in Wadi Rum doesn’t have many facilities. It’s part of its beauty but it does make things harder if you’re travelling with very young children. 

If you’re travelling with teens, I would highly recommend a trip to Jordan for your family travel bucket list. But for children younger than 10-12, I would recommend waiting. You’d be fine but you’ll enjoy it a lot more (and so will they) when they are older.

What to pack for Jordan

Don’t fall for the myth that the Middle East is always hot. Even in the summer, temperatures plunge at night in the desert. 

I would recommend packing long sleeve, long legged trousers in cool linens, with some thermals and a lightweight jacket and warmer jacket as well. Make sure you have proper walking shoes of hiking boots for areas outside the city. 

It’s not essential for women to cover their hair but it is really useful to pack a scarf to protect yourself from the sand if it’s windy. 

Don’t forget to pack a travel adapter , your usual medication, chargers and so on. See our ultimate packing checklist here.

What is it like to travel solo in JOrdan?

If you join a group tour, it’s going to be a whole lot of fun. If you don’t speak Arabic and you’re travelling on your own, then it’s going to be intense and quite hard work. It’s a safe country, though, with a tradition of politeness and hospitality. Even the markets feel far calmer and safer than, say, Cairo or Marrakech.

Do you need a visa for Jordan?

Obviously, this depends to some extent on your own passport status. But in general, US and UK citizens can collect a tourist visa upon entry to Jordan and the process is straightforward. Always check properly in advance, though, with your own government. 

How to get to Jordan

Most visitors arrive into Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) in Amman. Flights connect to most of the world’s major hubs, from London Heathrow to New York. The airport is around 45 minutes drive from downtown Amman. While not the most exciting airport in the world, it is clean and well equipped for shopping and eating.

From London, both British Airways and Royal Jordanian fly from London Heathrow. The fastest way to connect from Heathrow to central London is via the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station, the gateway to the west, southwest and Wales. Using the Heathrow Express website in advance, you can book tickets for as little as  £5.50. Plus, children 15 and under travel for free.

How to get around Jordan

The easiest way to get around Jordan, by far, is by car or coach with a dedicated driver. As mentioned above, given the border situation with neighbouring countries, it’s not the best place for a self drive. 

In Amman, you can walk or take a taxi or Uber pretty easily. Public transport options do exist but if your time is short and you’re trying to get through this 7 day Jordan itinerary, then your own wheels make the most sense. 

What currency do you need for Jordan?

Jordanians use the Jordanian Dinar, which equates to around 1 GBP or 0.8 USD. In main hotels and some tourist sites, you can pay in USD but it’s always a good idea to have some local currency on you just in case. ATMs are plentiful and straightforward to use in Amman.

More on Travel in Jordan

See our travel guide to the best things to do in Jordan and then browse through the articles below:

• Jordanian Food: the 21 dishes you need to know
• What is it like to visit Petra?
• Is Petra at night worth it?
• The ecolodge where you can spend a night with the Bedouin
• How the Madaba mosaics show the pathway to peace
• How to create your Jordan bucket list

You may also be interested in this article on the best places to visit in the Middle East.

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13 Exciting Things to Do in Jordan To Make You Pack Your Bags

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 3, 2023

There are so many things to do in Jordan, you will want at least a couple of weeks to visit. From the thriving metropolis of Amman to the quiet retreat of the Feynan Ecolodge, there is something for everyone.

Jordan – The jewel of the Middle East. Surrounded by chaos and unrest, Jordan has remained a neutral destination and it is difficult to imagine the conflict that is happening outside its borders.

It’s advisable to stay away from the Syrian and Iraqi borders and be sure to steer clear of demonstrations in public places. But travel to Jordan feels no more insecure than anywhere else in the world these days and once you enter the country, you’ll feel the welcoming friendliness of locals.

Table of Contents

What to do in Jordan

We had the opportunity to visit much of the country and fell in love with its beauty, culture and hospitality. Jordan is a destination to remember. So these are our top 10 things to do in Jordan that will make you want to pack your bags right now.

• Get your Lonely Planet Travel Guide for Jordan

1. Ancient City of Petra

Petra is one of the great ancient cities of the world and it definitely lives up to the hype. With momentous buildings built into high cliffs, Petra will literally take your breath away as you step into the Treasury square after your 2km walk through the deep narrow gorge of the Siq.

Dating back more than 2000 years, Petra was an important part of the Silk Route to China and India but was abandoned at some time around the 12th century.

It was only known to locals for hundreds of years until it was rediscovered by the West in 1812. This legendary setting is so beautiful, Hollywood has since come a-knockin’ using Petra for filming locations in movies such as Transformers and Indian Jones. Read more about Petra here.

2. Petra by Night

Petra is an incredible place to visit by day , but going to Petra at night is magical. When the sun goes down, visitors follow candles lining the Siq all the way to the treasury where we watched a traditional Bedouin performance.

While the performance was only average, it was the setting that was breathtaking. Hundreds of candles lit up the treasury making for a night to remember.

For us, Petra was one of the greatest ancient cities blowing us away far beyond our visits to Machu Picchu, the Pyramids or even Anchor Wat.

• Where to stay : Movenpick   or Petra Marriott
• Get your Guide offers guided tours to Petra 

3. Little Petra

Of course, Petra is the top draw in Jordan, but while there be sure to have your guide take you a bit north to visit Little Petra also known as Siq al Barid.

Archaeologists believe it was a suburb of Petra. See, the ancient cities weren’t that much different than today! The draw here are the 2000 year old frescoes. Like Petra, entrance is through a narrow siq, albeit on a much smaller scale.

4. Float in the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea truly is filled with salt and you can float until your heart’s content. Book a hotel directly on the sea so you can enjoy a daily dip in the healing waters. People have been known to lay on their backs reading a newspaper in the Dead Sea and it’s true! You really float on top!

• Holiday Inn Dead Sea – We stayed at this hotel it was luxurious with great value located directly on the Dead Sea with a fantastic beach.
• Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea – we ate at this hotel and toured the amenities and it is pure heaven.

5. Take a Therapeutic Mud Bath

The minerals of the dead sea have healing qualities and many people book retreats to help with ailments. Take advantage of the spas utilizing the healing waters of the Dead Sea and enjoy a retreat into pure luxury. If you rub mud all over your skin, it will be as smooth as a baby’s bottom.

I found the salt to be very powerful however and it stung my skin. It was good to have a bucket of fresh water on hand.

• Where to Stay – Holiday Inn Dead Sea – We stayed at this hotel it was luxurious with great value.
• Where to Stay – Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea – we ate at this hotel and wished we stayed here. Pure heaven.
• Only in Jordan for a limited time? Day tours can be booked to the Dead Sea. 

6. Canyoning Wadi Mujib

One of our favorite activities in all of Jordan was splashing around in the waters of Wadi Mujib for a day. Wadi Mujib is easily reached from the Dead Sea and can be included during your stay there.

Canyoning in the warm waters of Jordan was a fantastic thrill beginning with a rappel down a waterfall into fast-flowing water. Wearing a PFD (life jacket) we swam through pools, plunged down natural waterslides and slid through narrow gorges. It was an amazing way to escape the heat and get our adventure on. Read all about it at our Canyoning Adventure in Jordan

7. Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is an incredible desert valley filled with narrow gorges, towering cliffs and natural stone arches. It’s home to the Bedouins where the human race has inhabited this land for nearly 12,000 years. T.E. Lawrence began his journey through the Arabian desert here.

Lawrence of Arabia is so linked to Wadi Rum, that the beautiful rock formation known as the Seven Pillars of Wisdom was named after his autobiography.

8. Sleep in a Bedouin Camp

There are many things to do in Wadi Rum. We took a jeep tour deep into the desert and we went on a camel safari to fill out our very own Lawrence of Arabia fantasies.

Experience a true Bedouin experience as you camp in the middle of Wadi Rum in yurts made out of wool. Walk by candlelight, enjoy a Bedouin meal cooked in the earth and ride a camel at sunset. But the best part about visiting Wadi Rum was staying in a Bedouin Camp to have a true Bedouin Experience.

We ate dinner in a tented camp where they prepared our meal underground. We stayed in our own private camp and walked along the pathway by candlelight. It was amazing to sleep under the stars.

• Where to Stay – Captains Desert Camp  – We stayed here and had a great authentic experience and ate an incredible meal.

9. Feynan Eco-Lodge

The Feynan Eco-Lodge is a luxury retreat that makes protecting Jordan’s natural resources and wildlife a priority. Hire a local guide from the lodge to take you on a nature hike through the reserve to point out the ancient ruins, local flora, and fauna and to share personal stories of growing up in the area.

At night enjoy a completely light pollution-free view of the stars as you lay in silence on the roof of the lodge to enjoy the night skies while sipping fresh tea.

• Read more about this experience in Jordan at Feynan Eco-Lodge a Quiet Retreat in Jordan
• You can book and check availability on Trip Advisor

10. Dana Nature Reserve

The Dana Biosphere Reserve cuts through the Rift Valley leading all the way to the heart of Africa. The town of Dana is a 15th century stone village overlooking the great valley. Once a thriving town, it has now been turned into an artist and farming community.

Here you can explore the town and hike through the natural preserve seeing local life as it has been lived for centuries. There are multi-day hikes you can do through the Biosphere Reserve and one even takes you from the village of Dana to the Feynan Ecolodge. Jordan is fast becoming an eco-travel destination.

• Where to Stay: Dana Guesthouse. 

If you like Roman ruins, you will love Jerash. Jerash is the most well-preserved ancient Roman city outside of Italy. Jerash dates back 6500 years and was an important city on Rome’s ancient trade route.

Thanks to the dry climate, it laid untouched for centuries to understand waiting to be explored. Excavations began in 1925 and today it is one of the greatest examples of Roman architecture outside of Rome.  

• Jerash can be reached by a day trip from Amman. We stayed at the Four Seasons Amman and took a day tour from the city
• Get Your Guide offers day trips from Amman to Jerash .
• For more on Jerash, read our post on our time at Jerash

12. Mount Nebo

For a spiritual journey visit Mount Nebo known to be the spot where Moses saw the promised land before he died. Looking out over the valley, you too can witness spectacular views of the Holy land.

Mount Nebo houses an active monastery and Byzantium church that is a popular stop for pilgrimages. Be sure to check out the mosaics.

13. Explore Amman

Amman is a thriving metropolis that is worth spending a few days in. Enjoy a shisha at a local bar, shop at one of the many markets and be sure to visit The King Abdullah Mosque.

For some local flare make sure to enjoy a meal at the Hashem Restaurant an outdoor café located in an alleyway packed with patrons.

Things to do in Amman

• King Abdullah Mosque
• Eat Food. Amman has an amazing food scene from street food to 5-star dining. Foods to try are falafel, hummus, nuts, khunafa, shawarma.
• Al Balad – The heart of Amman for markets and shopping
• Amman Citadel
• Rainbow Street

Where to Stay in Amman :  Four Seasons Amman

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Jordan far beyond Petra. With excellent eco-adventures, rich history, and incredible landscapes, Jordan makes for a wonderful Middle East vacation destination.

If you are looking for something different in your travels this year, be sure to give Jordan a try. You won’t be disappointed.

Map of Jordan – Our Itinerary

Click here for your own interactive map of Jordan

Attractions like Mount Nebo, Jerash and even the Dead Sead (if you have limited time) can be done in day trips from Amman.

We suggest at least one night at the Dead Sea.

Wadi Rum and Petra need to be overnight trips to truly appreciate the experiences.

Dana and Feynan are also recommended to have an overnight trip.

Suggested Jordan 10 Day Itinerary

• Day 1 – 3: (2 nights) – Explore Amman (can include a day trip to Jerash on one day)
• Day 3/4 – Day 3 leave for Petra and enjoy Petra by Night before exploring Petra the following day. (2 nights)
• Day 5/6 – Wadi Rum (2 nights)
• Day 6 – Overnight Feynan Eco Lodge (1 night)
• Day 7 – Overnight Dana Nature Reserve
• Day 8/9 – Dead Sea (2 nights).
• Day 10 – Stop at Mount Nebo on the way back to Amman

Read More about Jordan:

• Etiquette in the Middle East
• Jerash – Welcome to the Ancient Roman City of Jordan
• Wadi Mujib Canyoning, Jordan, An Eco-Adventure Thrill Ride
• Petra Jordan – Tips for Exploring the Lost City
• Petra by Night in Photos
• Jordan Travel Guide
• Walking Amman – A Walking Tour of Jordan’s Capital City
• Feynan Eco Lodge, A Quiet Retreat in Jordan
• Visiting the Dead Sea of Jordan – Floating Baths and Healing Water

Enjoy all of these places to visit in Jordan? Save it to Pinterest for future travel planning.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Petra Jordan – Tips for Visiting and Things to See

Jerash – Welcome to the Ancient Roman City of Jordan

Walking Amman – A Walking Tour of Jordan’s Capital City

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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16 thoughts on “13 Exciting Things to Do in Jordan To Make You Pack Your Bags”

My dream destination

I don’t know that Amman, Jordan is so beautiful. I will describe it as Classic Beauty. Thanks for writing and sharing this trip report.

Did you rent a car and drive yourselves?

Jordan is one of my favorite destinations in the world.wadi rum is the best place i love to visit again.Nice post ,thanks for sharing information.keep it up

I am hoping to be in Jordan from 4-7 May (unfortunately only three days). How can I best spend those precious moments?

You may want to book a tour. You can hire a private driver through Get Your Guide or Viator and they can take you to the highlights. I wouldn’t miss Petra or the Dead Sea. But if timed right, you may be able to fit in a night at Wadi Rum. Best of Luck! Here is a link to Get Your Guide 2 day tours. https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=jordan&customerSearch=1&searchSource=2?partner_id=DRH67LO&cmp=DL_Jordan – It’s an affiliate link where we get a percentage if you book, but it is no extra cost to you.

Hi I am planning my trip to Jordan in May first week. I am arriving in Amman and departing from Aqaba, I have total 7N to stay in Jordan and wish to explore as much as possible. Can anyone guide how I can spread my days across?

More great information! Thanks. Definitely taking your recommendations.

I was meant to travel to Israel and Jordan in September 2010. It was when I was still working in the field of human rights. I got invited for a job interview in London, with Amnesty International, to be held the day before traveling – and had to cancel the trip, lose some 400 euro worth of flights etc. And in the end, I didn’t even get the job. It came down to “we were undecided between you and another candidate, and we picked the other”. Oh well. I need to go to Jordan to celebrate my decision to abandon that career and do something I enjoy much more!

What a bummer! I can understand why you cancelled though. That would have been an incredible opportunity to pass up. Sorry you didn’t get it, but it sounds like things turned out well. Maybe it was the catalyst you needed to follow your heart? Are you doing your blog full time now? I am sure you will get to Jordan soon. Perhaps the next time will be for an amazing project with the tourism board!

Amazing post! thanks for the sharing.

Hi, Dave and Deb!

I’m planning to go to Jordan a few months from now, and I’d really like to visit all the ten places you listed in this article! May I know the itinerary you used? I will be there for just 5 days, and I’d really like to consider the travel time between the locations you mentioned.

Hoping for your quick response! It will be greatly appreciated!

Thank you! Great blog, by the way! Love it!

Jordan is a fairly small country. It’s just a couple of hours between places. Jerash is only an hour from Amman, Wadi Rum is the farthest away from Amman at 5 Hours. If you start at Wadi Rum, then go to Petra (3 1/2 hours from Amman) then on from the Dead Sea. The Canyoning is right by the Dead Sea. For five days I think that should be a good itinerary for you. A day at Wadi Rum with an overnight at a Bedouin Camp, then on to Petra for a tour and do Petra at night then move onto the Dead Sea. A day at the Dead sea with a half day of Canyoning and then back to Amman. I don’t think there’s time for the Feynan Eco Lodge or Dana Nature Preserve, but you could give it a shot if you want to spend less time in Amman. Have a great time! The link to day tours to Wadi Rum is https://www.getyourguide.com/amman-l1035/full-day-wadi-rum-discovery-tour-from-amman-t15920/?partner_id=DRH67LO&cmp=DL_TourWadiRum

Great list of things to do in Jordon….All seems interesting….

Jordan is truly incredible – barren and beautiful! I’m looking forward to experiencing it soon.

You will love it. It is an amazing country.

10 Days in Jordan [Best Jordan Itinerary]

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: March 21, 2019  - Last updated: January 25, 2024

It has been a while since I discovered a new country that I haven’t visited before. I have this habit of returning often to the same places like Spain or Portugal in order to get to know them better.

However, I really missed the sensation of exploring a new country with all my senses: tasting exotic food, immersing in a new culture, listening to foreign music, and learning tidbits of an unknown language,…

That’s how my choice felt upon Jordan, a country that I barely knew anything about. With 10 days in Jordan at my disposal, I was ready to dive into Jordan, the land of Petra, Bedouins and the Dead Sea.

In this Jordan Itinerary for 10 days, I share with you the almost same itinerary that I did during my visit in February. I adjusted it a little bit in order to have an itinerary that I would do if I visit again.

For example, I wish I could have stayed longer in Petra and Wadi Rum.

Jordan was a trip of a lifetime and I am still blown away by the kindness of its people, the beauty of its nature and the striking variety of landscapes.

I particularly liked the variety of this 10-day itinerary: adventures, luxury experiences, deserts, bucket list items, culture, and history…

You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

My 10-Day Jordan Itinerary

For every mentioned place, I recommend the hotels we stayed in and the restaurants that I particularly enjoyed. – Book here all your Jordan tours and activities

With most of the tourist attractions being in the South (also known as the Golden Triangle), this Jordan itinerary can be done in 5 days, 8 days in Jordan or more.

I visited Jordan with a rental car and I would do it again. More tips on renting a car in Jordan below. Check here the best prices of car rentals in Jordan.

1. Day in Jordan: Amman

Temple in amman citadel.

Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a great place to start your Jordan trip. I recommend taking at least one day in order to visit at your ease.

The Queen Alia airport is located at 1-hour drive from Amman city center, but you can book your airport transfer here.

If you have only one day in Amman , I highly recommend visiting the citadel, the Roman theatre, and the bazaar.

All of the sites are located close by, so you can easily walk from one to another. My favorite was definitely the Temple of Hercules in the citadel (free with Jordan Pass) which overlooks entire Amman.

The historic roots of this site go back to the Bronze Age and I was fascinated by the mix of architectural attractions.

Indeed, you’ll walk from a Roman temple to a Umayyad Palace and a Byzantine church within 10 minutes. All in front of a jaw-dropping background of bustling Amman .

Book here your Amman Walking Tour

Walking Tour in Amman

From here, you can walk down to the Roman theatre and explore Amman downtown area. The most famous street is Rainbow street where you can find countless restaurants and shops. I loved walking through the souk and spot potential souvenirs.

However, I recommend saving your money and purchase a souvenir that is made by the local community and where you support economic development like at Jordan River Designs.

In Amman, I made a super curious discovery! At least over 100 pigeon sellers gathering in Hashemi street, close to the Roman Nymphaeum! Apparently , pigeon training is the unofficial national sport of Jordan! 

Related: 15 Cool Things To Do in Amman

Where to stay in Amman

I recommend staying in Amman Pasha Hotel **, in front of the spectacular Roman theater.

It serves delicious food, comes with several complimentary services and the staff was so warm-hearted! Be ready to hear the enchanting prayers at the mosque close by.

Book here your stay in Amman Pasha Hotel ** Read more about where to stay in Jordan and the best hotels in Jordan .

2. Day in Jordan: Jerash via Mt. Nebo to the Dead Sea

Forum in jerash.

I absolutely wanted to visit Jerash, as I had heard so many things about its unique historical sites!

Indeed, the ruins dating 6500 years back are the best preserved Roman architectural site in the Middle East.

Located at 1 hour from Amman, Jerash is a great day trip from the capital. We decided to visit Jerash in the morning before heading to the Dead Sea via Mount Nebo.

My expectations on Jerash were high, but, man, the magnitude and the perfect condition of the ruins blew me away!

You always wanted to feel what it’s like to be in a perfect Ben Hur setting? Well, in Jerash you’ll stand in the middle of a hippodrome that could host up to 15.000 people!

Another highlight of Jerash, besides Hadrian’s Arch, was the South Theatre which could house up to 5000 people.

It is perfectly maintained and a band of Jordanian bagpipe and drummers are playing in the afternoon in order to showcase the perfect acoustic of the theatre.

You can easily spend one day in Jerash, but unfortunately, we were a little bit limited in time.

When visiting the ruins of Jerash, you can’t leave without visiting the Hippodrome , the forum, the Artemis and Hercules temple, and the Cardo Maximus.

Book here your day trip to Jerash from Amman

Visiting Jerash will give you the unique opportunity to feel like at Roman times as the top condition of the ruins is hard to beat.

If you want to learn more about the history behind all these impressive walls, I highly recommend hiring one of the local guides at the entrance.

From here, it is a 2 h drive to the Dead Sea via Mount Nebo, the place where Moses saw the Promised Land for the first time.

Moses is buried in the area of Mount Nebo where you can visit several religious sites like Moses’ Spring or Moses Memorial Church.

We were not very lucky with the weather, but apparently, on good days, you can see over to West Bank.

The road down from Mount Nebo to the Dead Sea ( lowest point on earth with -423 m below sea level) is an experience on its own and will give you a foretaste of the desert landscapes that are awaiting you in Wadi Rum.

Book here your Mount Nebo, Madaba – Dead Sea Tour from Amman

3. Day in Jordan: Dead Sea

View on the dead sea.

The Dead Sea was definitely one of the highlights of my Jordan trip. It’s not only a bucket list item for many, but it is also a natural attraction that you don’t want to miss.

First, I recommend visiting as long as you can, because the Dead Sea is dying! Indeed, every year, the “sea” (it’s actually a lake) level goes down.

There are no budget hotels on the Jordan side of the Dead Sea, so if you want to get pampered or enjoy a luxury experience in Jordan, then the Dead Sea area is the place.

Book here your day trip from Amman to the Dead Sea

It’s important to know that most beaches are private, thus they belong to one of the 4* or 5* hotels. Or you pay for your stay or you pay 20-25 JOD (= +/- 25-32 €) to enter.

The shore of the Dead Sea is rocky and has no easy access to the water. On top, I’m sure you’ll want to rinse off the salt after your “swim”.

When it comes to public beaches at the Dead Sea, you’ll want to visit Amman Beach which comes with showers. However, you’ll pay for mud (3 JOD, = +/- 4 €) and towels! Read more on how to visit Dead Sea Jordan on a budget. Read more about things to do in Dead Sea, Jordan.

READ: The Best Dead Sea Resort and Hotels in Jordan

Dancing in Hilton Dead Sea

Where to stay in dead sea, jordan.

I wanted to stay longer than only one afternoon at the Dead Sea and I really wanted to enjoy the spa treatments of the Dead Sea without any hustle. That’s why we decided to stay at the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa ***** .

The Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa ***** was the best place to stay in Dead Sea, Jordan. Besides the staff going always the extra-mile, I loved the direct access to the beach and the heated pool.

The sunset from the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa ***** infinity pool is probably one of the most memorable ones I’ve experienced so far.

The hotel comes with several dining options, but my favorite were “1312” with its delicious Lebanese cuisine and Bacchus, an Italian restaurant where we had enjoyable chats with the staff.

The welcoming atmosphere really made me feel at home and was the perfect place to fuel up before heading to Wadi Rum desert and Petra.

Read more about where to stay in Jordan and the best hotels in Jordan .

Sustainable aspects:

Considering the fact that the area is fairly arid and much of the sweet water comes from Wadi Mujib, I want to highlight the sustainable efforts of Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa ***** : the company is reducing water usage by 50 percent, soaps are recycled, all plastic straws are banned and the amount spent on local and minority-owned businesses doubled. 70% of the staff comes from Jordan.

Book here your stay at Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa

4. Day in Jordan: Wadi Mujib

Landscapes near wadi mujib.

Unfortunately, during our visit, Wadi Mujib was closed due to floods and rising water. The wet trail is the most popular one, but there are also several ones where you can keep dry.

Wadi Mujib is open for hikers from April to October.

Alternatively, you can visit the Dead Sea Panorama and the museum complex which is a 15 min drive away from the Dead Sea Highway.

The views from the restaurant are breathtaking! 

This is also a great place to start cycling in Jordan or to go hiking in Jordan since the area is famous for its numerous walking trails. 

Book here your guided Wadi Mujib hike

5. Day in Jordan: King’s Highway – Karak – Petra

View on dana reserve from king’s highway.

It’s time to leave the beautiful Dead Sea and hit the road to the most epic attraction of Jordan: Petra!

There are several ways to get there but we opted for a stop in Karak to visit the historic Crusader castle and to drive a considerable part on the King’s Highway which is famous for its cultural value and breathtaking views. The entire ride took us about 4 hours (no stop included).

Karak is well worth a visit if you are interested in castles and fortresses. Access is free with the Jordan Pass and I enjoyed the lovely views over the town. After a short stroll through the small town center, we hit the road to Petra.

Please avoid Kings Restaurant in front of the castle complex! This is a tourist trap and a total rip-off!

The King’s Highway leading to Petra is an attraction on its own and there will be many viewpoints with spectacular vistas above Dana Biosphere Reserve. It’s home to the famous Feynan Ecolodge .

6. Day in Jordan: Petra

Treasury at 6 am after it snow-rain. Still breathtaking.

Petra was the attraction where I had the highest expectations before traveling to Jordan.

I don’t want to say that I was disappointed, but I honestly didn’t expect such crowds (in low season), littering, witness animal mistreatment, being ripped off (5 JOD or 6 $/€ for an orange juice?!), daredevil Instagrammers looking for the perfect shot while risking their lives and countless souvenir shops selling souvenirs mostly “ Made in China .” Rant over.

With that being said, you cannot leave Jordan without having seen Petra! The magnitude of the site, the impressive sandstone carvings, and the natural landscape will definitely be unforgettable experience.

Book here your tour from Amman and Aqaba to Petra

I highly recommend being early if you want to escape the crowds, the site opens at 6 am and at 6.20 am, I was standing in front of the Treasury. Alone. That moment compensated for all the less enchanting experiences later on.

You’ll read soon more about how to visit Petra. Here a quick list of tips:

• Read about Petra before visiting, you’ll enjoy the visit more and the background of the Nabatean civilization is fascinating.
• Consider visiting in low season (October – March) in order to avoid the crowds and unbearable heat.
• Wear comfortable shoes: you’ll walk a lot! It takes 20 minutes to walk from the entrance to the Treasury and calculate 3 hours (including return) to visit the monastery accessible via 822 steps.
• Bring food and enough water (min 2 l), there are great places for picnics, but please don’t litter! Some hotels offer lunch packages.
• The viewpoints on the treasury are hard to reach and unless you’re a (very) independent traveler, they will be hard to find. We went without a guide following the steps to the High Place of Sacrifice, from here, up to the summit before hiking down a siq (canyon). The entire trail took us about 2 hours, there is a shortcut when you turn left from the Treasury. Many guides will offer their help to get to the viewpoint. As we went without and on a different trail, I cannot tell whether their services are useful or not.

Amra Palace International Hotel ***

Where to stay in petra.

All hotels are located in Wadi Musa from where you can drive or take a taxi to Petra Historical Site. The Mövenpick Resort Petra *****  is the closest you can get to Petra and one of the luxury hotels in Petra.

We stayed at Amra Palace International Hotel *** which has a shuttle to the Heritage Site, a spa with Turkish bath, massages and shisha bar. The hotel is fully renovated.

The hotel is managed by a local family, thus a great occasion to give back to the local community.

Book here your stay in Amra Palace International Hotel ***

7. Day in Jordan: Petra

At the monastery.

The second day in Petra is the day where you can get up really early in order to enjoy the site without the crowds.

It’s also the perfect opportunity to visit the places you couldn’t visit the day before like the Monastery, the High Place of Sacrifice, Little Petra,…

You may also consider Petra by Night, where you’ll enjoy the treasury in a unique atmosphere decorated with 1500 candles. During our stay, it was canceled due to the rain.

Petra by Night runs every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week and costs 17 JOD.

If you decide to spend 2 days in Petra, I recommend visiting Wadi Musa, the town (where people actually live and work). It was a great opportunity to get an insight in daily Jordan grind. Without the hassle of a major tourist site like Petra.

For dining in Wadi Musa I highly recommend Al-Wadi restaurant.

After your visit, hit the road to Wadi Rum (1h30 from Petra).

8. Day in Jordan: Wadi Rum

Going wild in the desert.

After arriving in Wadi Rum village, leave your car at the main parking and get picked up by your host. I absolutely recommend spending the night in a Bedouin camp.

It’s a unique experience where you’ll get a special insight into Bedouin culture and Wadi Rum desert.

I stayed at Wadi Rum Quiet Village , managed by Saleem and his family. Without any doubt, staying at the camp and getting to know Saleem’s family like Mohammed or Hussein definitely outperformed Petra as the highlight of my trip to Jordan.

Their kindness and knowledge about desert life will make your Jordan holiday simply unforgettable. – Book here your stay in Wadi Rum Quiet Village

After spending the first night in Wadi Rum, you’ll be ready to explore the breathtaking landscapes of this unique natural setting. You can book the tours right in the camp or book your full Wadi Rum Quiet Village package here.

We went for a Jeep Tour with Hussein and he showed us the most important rock formations in Wadi Rum. The tour was super diverse as it included some hiking parts, climbing on rocks, dancing in the sand dunes,…

Read more about things to do in Wadi Rum

View on Quiet Village Wadi Rum

The tour included the following Wadi Rum attractions :  Burdah Rock Bridge, Al Hasany Dunes, Jebel Rum, Lawrence Spring and House, Khazali Siq, Nabataean inscriptions,…

In the afternoon, we went for a sunset camel tour. I don’t have the words to describe the beautiful colors of the sunset. It was a magic moment.

Camels are used to the desert and bedouins work with them for several centuries. Unlike the camels in Petra, the camels of Saleem were very well-fed and tranquil . The tour took about 45 min and costs 20 JOD (= +/- 47 €).

I also want to make a big shoutout to the food served at Wadi Rum Quiet Village . It was the best I’ve eaten on the entire Jordan trip.

Food is being prepared based upon traditional Bedouin recipes and methods: it’s slow-cooked for 2 hours under the earth.

The chicken will melt in your mouth like butter and I can’t remember when I ate vegetables with such intense flavors.

Book here your stay in Wadi Rum Quiet Village

9. Day in Jordan: Wadi Rum – Aqaba

Setting of wadi rum quiet village.

After an adventurous day in Wadi Rum, it’s time to relax and unwind a bit. I recommend taking the time to interact with the Bedouins at the camp.

It really is a unique opportunity to learn about their lifestyle and traditions. (If you can’t avoid the wifi in the main tent) – Read more about things to do in Wadi Rum

The most common way to socialize is around a cup of tea (with sage in winter, with mint in summer). There’s always tea at your disposal in Wadi Rum Quiet Village and I loved getting to know more about Saleem and his family.

All the guys in Wadi Rum Quiet Village emitted such serenity and calm. You can truly feel their love for desert life and a sense of harmony with their natural surroundings.

Even though desert life is hard and comes with its very own challenges, the guys live and breathe positivity.

Unfortunately, we had to say goodbye in the afternoon in order to drive to the last destination of this Jordan itinerary: Aqaba

Book here your tour to Wadi Rum from Aqaba or Amman

10. Day in Jordan: Aqaba

The ride between 2 worlds, Wadi Rum and Aqaba , takes about 1 hour and the contrast couldn’t be bigger.

Whereas desert life is all about simplicity, pure nature, and total disconnection, Aqaba is the easy-going seaside resort with countless bars, restaurants and leisure options.

It really took me a while to “arrive” in Aqaba. The last day of your 10 Days Jordan Itinerary will be spent by relaxing at the beach and enjoying the good life.

Being the only coastal city in Jordan , Aqaba is known for being a low-tax, duty-free area. Together with Petra and Wadi Rum, it forms Jordan’s Golden Triangle.

Spending the last days of your Jordan holiday in Aqaba is a great idea as it’s a hub for beach lovers, water sports and diving enthusiasts.

Also, the town itself is great for souvenir shopping and enjoying traditional Jordanian food. It’s also the only place in Jordan where you can indulge in seafood.

Even though there’s a public beach in Aqaba , I cannot recommend it: it’s crowded, loud, dirty, and not suited for Western girls in their bikinis. If you still can’t resist a dip, please wear a shirt over your bikini.

Sustainable tourism: book here a snorkel activity for a cleaner ocean

Boasting warm temperatures even in winter, I’m sure you’ll want to spend some time on the beach .

For a perfect beach day in Aqaba, I recommend the Berenice Beach Club .

I spent 3 days in a row here, as it’s the closest you can get to paradise: crystal clear water, breathtaking views on Egypt’s mountains, great, tasty food, several swimming pools, a wide offer of water sports and animation…

The entry fee is 10 JOD (= +/- 13 €) and includes a towel, sun loungers, and discounts on the water sports. For 5 JOD (= +/- 6 €), you can rent a snorkel and the beach club comes even with its own diving center! Prices are thus really competitive!

The Berenice Beach Club has a shuttle that takes and brings you from Aqaba (15 min of a scenic drive).

Pure Bliss in Hyatt Regency Aqaba

Where to stay in aqaba.

I stayed in the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort ***** , and it was the perfect place to enjoy the last days in Jordan.

The scenic retreat is nestled amidst mountains and turquoise lagoons, the resort boasts a spa, a gorgeous infinity pool, a beach club and much more. They even offer sunset yoga free of charge!

Besides the breathtaking lobby and entrance gate, I loved the numerous dining options: indulge in a HUGE breakfast buffet, enjoy a cocktail with a sunset view at Cascades and enjoy the upbeat, bohemian atmosphere in La Plage , beach club.

I can tell, it was really hard to leave the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort *****.

Book here your stay in Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort *****

Getting home

You can depart from Jordan via Aqaba or Amman airport. Both have international flights.

We drove back to Amman , which is about 4 hours drive. The quickest way to get to Amman is by Desert Highway.

However, you can also opt for the Dead Sea Highway and do some parts via the scenic King’s Highway.

So this was my 10 Day Itinerary to Jordan which can be reduced to 5 or 7 days, or even extended. I really hope you enjoyed the read and that I could transmit on to you my passion for this beautiful country.

Jordan Travel Tips

When to visit jordan.

I visited during February which is low season in Jordan. Although the temperatures can get close to 0°C at night, especially in Wadi Rum and Petra, I don’t regret visiting Jordan during the off-season.

Because even in low season, Petra was SUPER crowded and Jerash was well visited too.

Bearable temperatures range from February to May and October to mid-November. I recommend avoiding the suffocating heat from May – September.

Is it safe to Travel to Jordan?

Yes! I didn’t feel unsafe one single second during these 10 days in Jordan. Even though I was not traveling alone, I had some me-time where I was on my own and I didn’t feel uncomfortable at all. That being said, we never went out of the town centers.

Okay, yes, some Jordanians are flirty but with a firm “N o, thank you! ”, they get your point.

The extreme safety in Jordan, despite being surrounded by countries at war, is mostly due to the very severe penalties for those Jordanian citizens harming tourists.

So, yes, in retrospect, I would travel solo as a woman to Jordan.

Renting a car in Jordan

I visited Jordan with a rental car and absolutely recommend the experience. Doing in total 1000 km in 10 days, we had no bad experience. Of course, you need to be a bit more careful than on European roads, but Jordanians usually drive cautiously.

Be aware of forgotten indicators and for countless speed controls on the road.

Our rental car was from Arena Cars at Amman airport. Check here the best prices for renting a car in Jordan.

Travel Costs Jordan

Surprisingly, Jordan is quite an expensive country! Whether you come from the US or Europe, Jordan is not a cheap destination. The JOD has the equivalent value of the GBP, so estimate 2 JOD (= +/- 3 €) for a bottle of water and an average 8 JOD (= +/- 10 €) for lunch.

Entry Visa costs (40 JOD, = +/- 51 €), if you land in Amman . I’ve been told that no visa is required if you enter via Aqaba airport.

In order to save money, I highly recommend the Jordan Pass as it weaves VISA costs (40 JOD, = +/- 51 €)), and includes the entry to all major sites like Petra (50 JOD, = +/- 64 €), Jerash, Wadi Rum, Amman Citadel and many more.

You can get the pass online and it costs 70-80 JOD (= +/- 89-102 €). Make sure to purchase it in advance and show it at customs at arrivals.

Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip 

• You’ll snap a ton of photos and I love to take my GoPro in order to shoot even in extreme situations. Get here the best deals for action cameras + free shipping.
• Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and hiking sandals when traveling to warm countries. Get here the best deals on walking shoes + free shipping
• Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my eco-friendly sunscreen by Thinksport. Buy here your eco-friendly sunscreen + free shipping.
• I always carry a light rain jacket, just in case. Get here the best deals on rain jackets + free shipping.
• Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel protected against all odds with  World Nomads.

To make the most of your Jordan trip, I recommend  Lonely Planet Jordan

Disclaimer: I have been supported by Jordan Tourism. All my opinions, as always, are my own. This posts contains affiliate links. In case you purchase one of the items, I’ll receive a small commission. The price remains the same for you.

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

Wednesday 15th of July 2020

Hi Paulina, thank you for this useful trip description. I loved the detailed description of the places! Since I'm planning on visiting Jordan in early Nov(if the borders open), I would really appreciate you opinion on car rentals. I've read various blogs regarding car rental and most say it is not an option cause of the roads and crazy drivers Being from southern Europe, I'm really not that sure the roads are that bad. In your opinion, is it ok to rent a car and drive entire trip instead of taking a driver or taxi all the time?! We arrive to Aqaba and leave from there, so following your steps but backwards. Thank you in advance

Dear Olena, thank you so much for your kind comment! I really appreciate it a lot :) I did the entire 10-day tour by car...and we had NO issue at all! Ok, sometimes you need to be a bit careful, but that said, the main roads are great! On top, highlights such as the King's Highway are best discovered by car. Thus, yes yes yes to driving in Jordan. :) I booked my car with Discover Cars, they often have deals with up to -20% cheaper. (it's an affiliate link and I'll get a small commission if you book via it. it helps me to keep the blog running. thanks a million in advance)

mayuri patel

Friday 19th of April 2019

What a perfect itinerary! I’ve been wanting to visit Jordan for a long time and just love your shots. I love the idea of Petra by night and bookmarking this post for reference.Thank you for sharing.

Thank you so much for your sweet comment. Jordan is such a beautiful place to visit. When will you go? :)

Katie Diederichs

Saturday 23rd of March 2019

I've been itching to make it to Jordan for a while now, and this is one of the most comprehensive articles I've seen. Such great tips (and photos!). I'll be pinning this for when I start planning a trip there (hopefully soon!).

Monday 25th of March 2019

Thank you so much for your kind words! Jordan is an awesome place to visit all the landscapes are so diverse and there seems to be something for everybody: desert, wellness, watersports... you'll love it!

Super useful post Paulina! I'd love to follow your exact itinerary, thank you for all the info! I hope to make this dream happen someday soon!

Thank you so much for your kind words Diana! If you ll go someday, just let me know I would love to share some tips. Jordan is like made for you: full of the most scenic photo locations!

What a solid itinerary! I've been wanting to visit Jordan for a long time and just love some of these shots. Your cute dress also matched the scenery perfectly! I love the idea of Petra by night, never knew you could do that so thanks for sharing.

Thank you so much for your comment Natasha! I am so glad that you like the article, I really tried to share as much valuable information as possible. Petra must be a fairytale experience... unfortunately it was raining AND snowing when we visited, so we couldn't do that. One more reason to go back though ;)

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!

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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Jordan Tours & Holidays

Modern cities filled with worldly citizens, mountainous regions dotted with small villages, and deserts inhabited by the nomadic Bedouin - Jordan has all this diversity and more.

With the cosmopolitan cafes of Amman , the peace of hilltop Dana and the historic treasures of Madaba, you may come to Jordan to see the ruins of   Petra , but you’ll leave having encountered so much more.

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Popular destinations in Jordan

Jordan at a glance, capital city.

Amman (population 960,000)

6.5 million

(GMT+02:00) Amman

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type B (American 3-pin) Type C (European 2-pin) Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin) Type J (Swiss 3-pin)

Learn more about Jordan

Culture and customs.

As a Muslim country, Jordan’s culture is quite conservative, although not as conservative as some other Middle Eastern countries. Western influences (particularly in Amman and other large cities) have infiltrated Jordanian society so Jordan now possesses a mix of Arabian customs amid modern ways of life. Due to immigration, Jordan now has a significant Palestinian and Iraqi population, adding to the cultural diversity of the country.

Despite the outside influences, Islamic traditions are strong in Jordan with spectacular mosques signalling the call to prayer five times a day, Ramadan being observed each year and some segregation of the sexes occurring. 

The desert-dwelling Bedouin have a distinct culture of their own, drawing on traditions that have been passed down for centuries. Living a largely nomadic lifestyle, the Bedouin rely on the herding of animals and the creation of handicrafts in the absence of a fertile environment to farm. With a strong musical heritage, traditional instruments are played and time-honored traditions are continued. 

Hospitality is a crucial element of Jordanian culture. Most visitors will be humbled by the kindness, sincerity and genuine care showed by Jordanians. Being welcomed into peoples’ homes is common, and can probably be attributed to the custom of welcoming strangers and sharing food when travelling in the unforgiving desert.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Featuring typical Middle Eastern ingredients like lamb, chickpeas, garlic and a range of aromatic herbs and spices, Jordanian cuisine is delicious.

Things to try in Jordan

Like many other Middle Eastern countries, a plate of shared breads and dips is a great way to begin a feast.

This traditional Bedouin dish of lamb and yoghurt is usually served with rice and bread. This is the national dish of Jordan, so definitely try it before you leave.

These small, sweet pastries made with honey and nuts will have you going back for more.

The coffee in Jordan is strong. Often spiced with a hint of cardamom, coffee is strongly linked to the famed Jordanian hospitality, so drink up – it would be rude not to!

Read more about the top dishes to try in Jordan

Learn more about popular Jordanian drinks

Geography and environment

Jordan is made up of a staggeringly diverse range of natural environments. From stark deserts to towering mountains, fertile wetlands, coastal reefs and urban cities, journeying through Jordan provides changing scenery and varying conditions. 

Sharing borders with Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Syria and Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Jordan mixes modern architecture with heritage-filled buildings, well-manicured streets with historic alleyways and impressive mansions with simple homes. 

Modern, developed cities like Amman and Aqaba feature unique architecture, spectacular mosques, five-star hotels and resorts. Small villages with rustic housing populate the less-built-up rural areas and Bedouin tents made of goat hair can be found in desert areas.

History and government

Early history.

The country now known as Jordan was originally inhabited by the Nabataeans thousands of years ago. Over the centuries, Jordan has been a place conquered and inhabited by many different people including the Romans, Greeks, Assyrians, Ottoman Turks, Egyptians and Mamluks (people of Kurdish origins). All these influences can still be seen today in Jordan's ancient ruins, architecture, crafts and arts. Many battles were fought in Ancient Jordan, including the Christian crusaders who clashed with Islamic Forces in Jordan during the 11th and 12th centuries. The first Muslim Dynasty began with the Umayyad Empire in 661.

Recent history

In 1950, Jordan was renamed the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and in 1951, King Abdullah I was assassinated while visiting a mosque. His eldest son became king but was removed from his duties in 1952 due to mental illness. In 1953, his teenage son Hussein Ibn Talal became king, and continued to rule for over 40 years. In the 1960s, Jordan saw many immigrants arrive and settle – mainly Palestinians escaping the conflict in their homeland.

In 1999, King Abdullah II succeeded his father King Hussein and continues to rule Jordan now. His reign has been characterised by liberal policies, economic reforms and technological advances. His wife, Queen Rania of Jordan, has a visible public profile, is active in many social causes and is regarded internationally as a highly influential woman.

Top 10 ways to experience Jordan

1. locate a lost city.

Spend a day exploring the astonishing lost city of Petra. Discover temples, tombs, a monastery and an amphitheatre in this fascinating, world-renowned archaeological site.

2. Take a dip

Dive into the Dead Sea and relax in the famous waters thought to have therapeutical properties. The high salinity makes floating effortless so it’s easy to lie back and enjoy the view. This experience is a must-do for any visitor to Jordan.

3. Kick back in a cafe

The cafes of Amman are the perfect place to get acquainted with modern Jordan. From elegant, urban cafes serving international fare to earthy, family-run cafes offering traditional food and coffee, see both sides of modern Jordan when you eat.

4. Delve into the desert

Travel across hot, desert sands and spend the night camping under the stars with Bedouin hosts. Stargazing, eating traditional food and learning about the Bedouin way of life is an authentic experience to remember.

5. Admire ancient art

The city of Madaba is known for its amazing collection of ancient mosaics. Take a stroll around the city to scout out these handcrafted pieces of the past that are scattered throughout Madaba’s churches, museums and homes.

6. View an icon

Behold the sight of legendary Mt Nebo. A revered holy site, Mt Nebo is home to the ruins of a church and monastery, and is an interesting place for believers and non-believers alike.

7. Meet Mother Nature

A hike through the changing landscapes of the Dana Nature Reserve offers wildlife encounters, quaint villages and majestic mountain views. Get back to nature and see Jordan’s natural treasures here.

8. Relax in a resort

See a different side of Jordan in the laidback resort town of Aqaba. Chill out on the beach, feast on fresh seafood, soak up the sunshine and enjoy the change of pace in this piece of coastal bliss.

9. Uncover a bit of history

Explore the fortified town and castle of Karak to gain insight into the fascinating history of this region. Walk through a network of tunnels and walkways and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

10. Discover Roman ruins

Travel to Jerash to see some of the biggest and most preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy. Baths, theatres, temples and forums feature within the colonnaded streets and still-standing city walls.

From atmospheric souqs to modern malls and designer boutiques, Jordan has a shopping experience to suit everyone. While not particularly cheap, the quality is generally excellent and the service friendly.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.   Australia   and   New Zealand   generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Jordan

1. Traditional handicrafts

Mosaics, ceramics, rugs and carpets can be found everywhere in Jordan, but the variety and quality found in Madaba is a standout.

2. Bedouin crafts

Silver jewellery and embroidered scarves make great souvenirs and can be purchased from souqs and independent vendors around Jordan.

3. Gold jewellery

Traditional souvenirs and stunning gold jewellery can be found in the souqs of downtown Amman.

Festivals and events in Jordan

Ramadan and eid.

During the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is observed by most in Jordan and is thought to be a time of spiritual rejuvenation. For this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset - refraining from eating and drinking during daylight hours. Eid marks the end of fasting with three days of feasting and celebration.

Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts

See the best of local and international performing arts with theatre, music, poetry and dance taking over the ancient Roman city of Jerash, much to the delight of locals and visitors alike.

Top places to visit in Jordan

If you think you’ve been to Rome and seen some impressive ruins, you’ll be amazed by the sights at the ancient city of Jerash. One of the biggest and most well-preserved ancient Roman cities in the world, it has a striking collection of archways and theatres, baths, public buildings and colonnaded streets.

Explore the ruins of Jerash on our 9 day Cycle Jordan: Petra & Wadi Rum tour.

This seaside town is the perfect place to kick back and relax by the hotel pool or at the beach. Located on the tip of the Red Sea, there are untouched coral reefs not far from the shore ready to be explored.

Soak up the sun on our 22 day Egypt, Jordan, Isreal & the Palestinian Territories tour , embrace the beach vibes on our 15 day Discover Egypt & Jordan tour or snorkel coral reefs on our 19 day Explore Egypt & Jordan adventure .

3. Wadi Rum

When you first enter Wadi Rum you may feel as though you’ve been transported to Mars. The red desert landscape is peppered with towering rock formations as far as the eye can see. Don’t miss an opportunity to mingle with the nomadic Bedouin people and perhaps even spend the night in one of their Desert Camps.

Visit the Wadi Rum Desert on our 9 day Jordan & Egypt Express tour or on our 8 day Explore Jordan adventure .

The ancient city of Petra was crowned one of the Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, and once you visit, it’s not hard to see why. Packed with history and culture, a visit to this UNESCO world heritage site is a must.

Admire the beauty of Petra on our 8 day Jordan Discovery tour .

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider. Tie another trip into your holiday, or see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around Jordan. The options below may be of interest:

• Tours from Amman
• Amman to Madaba
• Cairo to Madaba
• Tours to Madaba

Or maybe you're thinking about a trip to Jordan but still browsing other destinations? Check out our tours to neighbouring locations:

Further reading

Jordan travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa for Jordan?

Visas are required by all visitors entering Jordan.

Single entry visas valid for 14 days and can be obtained by most nationalities on arrival at the airport in Amman or at the Jordanian border for approximately JOD40.

It can be significantly more expensive to acquire your visa from the embassy in your home country.

If you require a stay longer than 14 days, visas obtained from the embassy in your home country will be valid for two months.

When is the best time to visit Jordan?

The weather in Jordan can get quite extreme. Overall, it tends to be hot during the day and cold at night (in desert areas, expect it to be extremely hot during the day and freezing at night). Yet during winter it can get bitterly cold, with snowfall occurring in some parts of the country.

Travelling during the summer months (June, July and August) can be challenging for those not accustomed to the heat, so visiting Jordan during spring and autumn is recommended for those who wish to escape the hotter temperatures. 

Is tipping customary in Jordan?

Tipping is up to the individual in Jordan. Hotels and up-market restaurants typically add a surcharge that is included in bills, which is usually 10%. Rounding up bills and leaving spare change is a good idea when dining in smaller restaurants and when using taxis.

What is the internet access like in Jordan?

Internet access is growing rapidly in Jordan. Internet can usually be accessed from hotels and internet cafes in major cities. Expect little to no access in small towns, villages and other rural areas.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Jordan?

Mobile phone coverage is good in Jordan’s major cities and built-up areas like Amman and Aqaba. Expect limited to no phone coverage in more isolated areas like the desert. Ensure you have global roaming activated on your phone before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Jordan?

Western-style toilets are common in modern hotels, malls and at popular tourist areas. Squat toilets are the standard throughout the rest of the country. Sometimes, you may need to pay and bring your own toilet paper when visiting public rest rooms.

What will it cost for a…?

Jordan's unit of currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

Street snack = 1-5 JOD Can of soft drink = 1 JOD Dinner at a restaurant = 10-45 JOD Embroidered shawl = 20-30 JOD

Can I drink the water in Jordan?

Drinking water from taps in Jordan can be safe, depending on where you are. It's considered safe to drink water from modern hotels that have filtered water but perhaps not so from smaller establishments and in rural areas. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Peel fruit before eating and avoid ice in drinks.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Jordan?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores in Jordan. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Jordan?

ATMs are common in Jordan’s main cities so finding one won't be a problem. Rural and remote areas typically will have less ATMs so be sure to carry enough cash for purchases when away from the city.

What public holidays are celebrated in Jordan?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 25 May: Independence Day
• 25 Jun: The End of Ramadan
• 26 Jun: The End of Ramadan
• 27 Jun: The End of Ramadan
• 31 Aug: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 1 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 2 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 3 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 4 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 21 Sep: Islamic New Year
• 30 Nov: The Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

Please note, Jordan public holidays may vary.

Is Jordan LGBTQIA+ friendly?

As a Muslim country, Jordan’s culture is quite conservative, although not as conservative as some other Middle Eastern countries. Homosexuality has been decriminalised in Jordan since 1951, and while Jordanians who identify as having an LGBTQIA+ identity will not be criminalised, many people continue to hide their sexuality or identity from their families and there is still a deep social stigma. As long as LGBTQIA+ travellers display some discretion and respect for local culture, particularly when visiting places outside of the major cities and tourist areas, they will have no problem visiting Jordan. 

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is the transport like in Jordan?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Jordan, you may find yourself travelling by 4x4.

Head out for a day of dune-bashing in a 4x4. Scale the towering desert dunes and take in the sweeping views. A fun way to explore remote parts of Jordan .

What's the accommodation like in Jordan?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When travelling with us in Jordan you may find yourself staying in a desert camp.

Be welcomed by Bedouin for a night of camping under the stars. Enjoy traditional food and music then fall asleep in the supreme silence of the desert.

What to wear in Jordan?

Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country and conservative clothing is the norm for all genders. You don't need to cover yourself from head to toe, but you should wear clothing that covers your chest, shoulders and legs from the knee up. Honouring the local dress code shows respect for the local culture and customs.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Carefully crafted, sustainable experiences through the best hidden gems of Jordan

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Agri and rural tourism, experiences.

Botanical Immersion

Farm to Table - Ghor

Farmer Experience with Abu Ashraf

Eco and adventure tourism.

Al-Hidan Adventure Centre & Lodge

Petra Fixed Balloon Bliss

Horse Back-Riding-Experience

These Are 6 Of The World’s Rarest Travel Experiences

Y ou should look for an unforgettable experience when considering the most unique places to travel. There are some experiences you can only find in specific destinations around the world, and there are some experiences you will soon find out of this world.

From getting into a space balloon to travel to the Earth’s stratosphere (something only 600 people have done so far) to pink dolphin watching in the Amazon region, here are some of the world’s rarest travel experiences.

Be Among The First To Look At Planet Earth From A SpaceBalloon

In 2024, there will be a way for people to experience the Earth’s stratosphere. Space Perspective has a roughly six-hour experience that will give explorers a front-row seat on a capsule through the largest windows ever flown to space.

Capsules will come equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity, comfortable seats, and a bathroom to view the world from the vantage points only afforded to astronauts and recorded for people to experience through video and pictures.

Flights will take off from Florida’s Kennedy Space Centre from the company’s launch vessel, Marine Spaceport (MS) Voyager. It’s the first marine spaceport for human spaceflight. You’ll have two hours to view the curve of the Earth, the total blackness of space, and the thin blue line of our atmosphere—the quintessential astronaut experience. The vessel reaches an apogee of 30,480m before a gentle ocean splashdown. 

It’s an expensive experience, as flights cost $125,000 per person. However, it’s one of the rarest, as only 600 people have looked down at our home from above. Flights are fully booked with Space Perspective until 2025.

Participate In A Temazcal Ceremony In Mexico

Temazcal is an ancestral shamanic ritual practiced by ancient civilizations throughout Central and North America, including the Mayans, Aztecs, and Toltecs. Often compared to saunas and hot baths, ancient civilizations believed temazcals helped to relieve stress, aches, and injuries, cure skin diseases, and help with respiratory conditions, to name a few.

Shamans accompany people who want to participate in a temazcal ceremony in Mexico. The ceremony is said to help people to detoxify their bodies and purify their minds.

Mars on Earth: Visiting Wadi Rum in Jordan

Wadi Rum desert is one of the most unique places in the world. It’s full of red sand, sandstone rocks, and otherworldly landscapes that easily convince visitors they’re on another planet. It’s so unique that scientists say it’s the only place on Earth that will get us closest to Mars. That’s precisely why Star Wars’ “The Rise of Skywalker” and “Rogue One” were filmed here.

Make no mistake. The New World Wonder of Petra and the Dead Sea are must-sees attractions in Jordan but don’t leave without visiting Wadi Rum, as it’s a wonder of its own. Over 20,000 petroglyphs and 20,000 inscriptions are documented inside Wadi Rum, tracing human existence for over 12,000 years. The Wadi Rum Protected Area has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2011.

Float in Jordan’s Dead Sea

Swimming in the dead sea is a rare experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world, and it has everything to do with the water’s makeup.

Jordan’s Dead Sea is the saltiest water on the planet, to the point that not a single creature lives in it. According to scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the high salinity increases the density of the water, making objects that touch the Dead Sea more buoyant. You don’t need to know how to swim. You lay back and float in the water.

Floating in the Dead Sea has some benefits. The water is known to heal skin ailments, back pain, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation as it calms the nervous system. Talk about bragging rights.

Pink River Dolphin Watching In Brazil

The Amazon is home to unique dolphins you won’t find anywhere else—pink river dolphins. The Amazon region is the only place you will find this beautiful species in its natural habitat.

Pink river dolphins only live in freshwater. They’re typically found in the Amazon and Orinoco River Basins in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, and Venezuela. Manaus, Brazil is the best place to see them.

According to World Wild Life, pink dolphins are vulnerable in some areas because dams fragment and threaten specific populations. Contamination of rivers and lakes also threatens the population.

The most responsible way to see pink river dolphins is by watching them during a boat ride versus swimming with the creatures. Boat rides from Manaus to Tabatinga are the most popular for pink dolphin watching.

Cruise to Antarctica

Visiting Antarctica isn’t impossible, but it’s rare and challenging. Its extreme weather and harsh conditions mean no regular passenger-plane flights are available for people.

People get around the challenge by booking a trip to Argentina and then sailing to the continent. It’s a polar expedition allowing brave explorers to cross the iconic Drake Passage, witness iconic wildlife and icebergs, but most importantly, set foot on the White Continent that very few people have ventured to.

Like traveling to space, an Antarctica cruise has a hefty price tag averaging between $10,000 and $20,000. The National Geographic and Poseidon Expeditions offer the opportunity to visit Antarctica with a team of scientists and experts to help lead the way.

Naujienų prenumerata

Pažintinė kelionė su poilsiu į Jordaniją

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• Kas įskaičiuota
• Keliautojų atsiliepimai

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Kelionės maršrutas

Čia savo patirtimi dalinasi keliautojai.

Užduok rūpimus klausimus.

Kelionės maršrutas PDF

• Puikus kultūrinis maršrutas po įdomiausias Jordanijos vietas.
• Pamatysite senąjį nabatėjų miestą Petrą – vieną Naujųjų pasaulio stebuklų ir UNESCO Pasaulio paveldo objektą.
• Nakvosite Vadi Rumo dykumoje su visais patogumais.
• Aplankysite unikalų gamtos reiškinį – Negyvąją jūrą.
• Ilsėsitės prie Raudonosios jūros.
• Aplankysite Biblijoje minimas vietas, kryžiuočių tvirtoves, grožėsitės įspūdingais peizažais.
• Maža ir jauki grupė iki 13 keliautojų – galimybė geriau pažinti šalį.
• Įskaičiuotos vakarienės – minimalios asmeninės išlaidos.

Skrydis Vilnius – Amanas.

Skrisite iš Vilniaus į Amaną su persėdimu Stambule vienomis geriausių Europos avialinijų - "Turkish Airlines". Vakare nusileidus oro uoste, jus pasitiks mūsų partnerių vietos atstovai, padės susitvarkyti imigracijos formalumus. Pervežimas į viešbutį Amane. Nakvynė.

Amanas – Adžlunas – Džarašas – Amanas (150 km).

Rytą pradėsite nuo pažinties su Jordanijos sostine. Amanas, kaip ir senovės Roma, išaugo ant 7 kalvų, vadinamų jebel. Vakarinis Amanas yra labai vakarietiškas, su prašmatniais viešbučiais, kavinėmis, meno galerijomis, prabangiais gyvenamaisiais rajonais. Apžiūrėsite istorinį Amaną: aplankysite romėnišką teatrą ir citadelę bei umajadų islamiškojo palikimo rūmus, archeologinį ir folkloro muziejų. Vėliau važiuosite į šiaurinę šalies dalį, į vieną svarbiausių istorinių vietų Vidurio Rytuose – Adžlunu. Adžluno pilis (Qal‘at Ar-Rabad) yra islamiškos architektūros pavyzdys. Pilis buvo pastatyta generolo Saladino 1184 m. tam, kad būtų galima lengviau kontroliuoti Adžluno geležies kasyklas ir kovoti su kryžiuočiais, neleisti jiems prieiti prie trijų pagrindinių Jordanijos slėnio kelių. Taip pat norėta apsaugoti susisiekimo kelius tarp Jordanijos ir Sirijos. Galiausiai aplankysite senovės romėnų miestą Džarašą. Čia pasivaikščiosite grįstomis ir kolonomis apsuptomis gatvelėmis, grožėsitės šventyklomis, teatrais, erdviomis miesto aikštėmis, fontanais. Grįšite į Amaną. Vakarienė ir nakvynė viešbutyje.

Amanas - Krikšto vieta - Negyvoji jūra (75 km).

Po pusryčių važiuosite į vietą, kur Jonas Krikštytojas pradėjo savo pamokslus ir pakrikštijo Jėzų Kristų. Jordaniją ir Izraelį čia skiria vos 3 metrų pločio Jordano upė. Vėliau vyksite prie Negyvosios jūros. Per laisvą pusdienį turėsite galimybę pažintį šį unikalų gamtos reiškinį, išbandyti sveikatingumo procedūras bei plūduriavimą ant vandens. Vakarienė ir nakvynė viešbutyje.

Negyvoji jūra – Madaba – Nebo kalnas – Karakas – Petra (280 km).

Po pusryčių važiuosite karališkuoju keliu į šalies pietinę dalį – jame iki šiol matomi pirklių, kariuomenių ir piligrimų palikti ženklai. Užsuksite į krikščioniškąjį Madabos miestą, dar vadinamą Mozaikų miestu. Čia pamatysite mozaikinį romėnų laikų pasaulio žemėlapį, kuris mokslininkams padėjo atrasti tokias svarbias Biblijoje minimas vietas, kaip Betani prie Jordano ar Loto olą. Pakilsite į Nebo kalną, kur palaidotas pranašas Mozė. Čia jis skelbė savo pranašystes. Dabar šioje vietoje yra muziejus, graži bažnytėlė (šiuo metu uždaryta rekonstrukcijai) ir labai įspūdingas kryžius. Nuo kalno atsiveria nuostabūs vaizdai į Jordano slėnį, o geru oru galima įžiūrėti Palestiną. Pakeliui į Karako pilį, menančią Bizantijos ir Mameliukų periodus, grožėsitės Vadi Mudžibo slėnio vaizdais. Karakas – garsi kryžiuočių tvirtovė, prie kurios buvo suremtos Saladino ir Kryžiaus riterių ietys (pamenate filmą „Dangaus karalystė“?). Vakarienė ir nakvynė viešbutyje Petroje.

Po pusryčių išvysite vieną iš Naujųjų pasaulio stebuklų – senąjį nabatėjų miestą Petrą, vadinamą Rausvąja dykumų rože. Petra laikoma vienu iš seniausių pasaulio miestų, tačiau vakariečiai pirmą kartą jį pamatė tik XIX a. Petros link galėsite joti arkliu (apie 1 km), vėliau eisite siauru kanjonu, vingiuojančiu tarp uolų, dėl kurio šis miestas buvo neįveikiamas. Kanjono pabaigoje lauks kvapą gniaužiantis uolose išskobtas statinys, vadinamas Lobynu. Tokių įspūdingų statinių Petroje – ne vienas. Taip pat galėsite pamatyti senovinių vandentiekių ir cisternų, teatrą ir romėnų laikų kolonų, šventyklų. Pakeliui beduinai siūlys pailsinti savo kojas persėdus ant asiliuko ar kupranugario, o beduinės norės parduoti rankų darbo sidabrinius papuošalus ir kitus rankdarbius. Vakarienė ir nakvynė viešbutyje Petroje.

Petra – Mažoji Petra – Vadi Rumas (135 km).

Po pusryčių spėsite aplankyti Beidą, vadinamą Mažąja Petra. Čia nabatėjai linksmindavo savo svečius. Vėliau vyksite į Vadi Rumo dykumą. Mūsų lauks trijų valandų pasivažinėjimas beduinų džipais po Vadi Rumo dykumą. Praeisime keliu, kuriuo per dykumą keliavo ir savo būrius vedė garsusis Arabų Lorensas - anglas, tapęs beduinų draugu ir vadu jų kovoje su turkais XX a. pradžioje. Kilsime ir leisimės į aukštas smėlio kopas, lipsime į dykumoje styrančias fantastiškų formų raudonas olas. Turėsite galimybę pajodinėti kupranugariais (už papildomą mokestį). Liksime nakvoti dykumoje beduinų stovykloje. Apsistosite dvivietėse palapinėse su visais patogumais. Giedrą vakarą dykumoje ryškiai matosi žvaigždės. Vakarienė ir nakvynė dykumos stovyklavietėje.

Vadi Rumas - Akaba (75 km).

Po pusryčių važiuosite į Akabą - kurortą prie Raudonosios jūros. Šiame mieste gimė arabų tautų istoriją iš esmės pakeitęs Didysis arabų pasipriešinimas. Turėsite nedidelę orientacinę ekskursiją po miesto centrą. Galėsite užsukti į vietinį gatvės turgų. Vėliau - laisvas laikas poilsiui paplūdimyje ir vandens pramogoms. Vakarienė ir nakvynė viešbutyje.

Akaba. Poilsis prie Raudonosios jūros.

Pusryčiai viešbutyje. Laisvas laikas prie Raudonosios jūros. Norintys galės pasigrožėti povandeniniu Raudonosios jūros pasauliu užsisakę ekskursiją laivu (už papildomą mokestį) – Akaba garsėja koraliniais rifais. Vakarienė ir nakvynė viešbutyje.

Pusryčiai viešbutyje. Dar turėsite vis laisvą dieną Raudonosios jūros pakrantėje. Nors išvyksite vėlai vakare, kambariais ir viešbučio bendrosiomis erdvėmis galėsite naudotis iki išvykimo į oro uostą. Vakare - pervežimas į Akabos oro uostą.

Akaba - Skrydžiai į Vilnių.

Po vidurnakčio - skrydis į Vilnių su persėdimu Stambule vienomis geriausių Europos avialinijų "Turkish Airlines". Vilniuje leisitės priešpiet.

Į KELIONĖS KAINĄ

Įskaičiuota, neįskaičiuota.

• 7 nakvynės su pusryčiais ir vakarienėmis 3 – 5* viešbučiuose dviviečiuose kambariuose.
• 1 nakvynė beduinų stovykloje dvivietėje palapinėje su visais patogumais, pusryčiais ir vakariene.
• Vėlyvas išsiregistravimas viešbutyje Akaboje išvykimo dieną.
• Visi pervežimai privačiu autobusu su kondicionieriumi.
• Turas džipu po Vadi Rum dykumą (apie 3 val. trukmės).
• Visi įėjimai į programoje numatytus lankomus objektus.
• Vietinio rusakalbio ar anglakalbio gido paslaugos pažintinio turo dienomis.
• Lydintis kelionės vadovas (susirinkus bent 9 keliautojų grupei).
• Jordanijos viza bei imigracijos formalumų sutvarkymas.
• Tarptautinio skrydžio bilietai Vilnius – Amanas / Akaba – Vilnius (520 EUR / asm.).
• Programoje nenurodytas maitinimas.
• Arbatpinigiai vietiniams gidams, vairuotojams, viešbučių personalui.
• Lagaminų krovikų paslaugos.
• Kelionės draudimas.
• Kitos asmeninės ir nenumatytos išlaidos.
• Vienviečio kambario priemoka (360 EUR).

KELIAUTOJŲ ATSILIEPIMAI

Asta šiaulienė, rūta jegelevičienė, kelionės užklausa.

Jei nerandate sau tinkamos datos, ar norite kitokio maršruto, nei siūlome - parašykite mums!

Sutinku su šios interneto svetainės privatumo politika.

SUSIJUSIOS KELIONĖS

Turkmėnistanas: paslaptis vidurio azijos širdyje, spalvingieji filipinai: penkių salų turas, pažintinė kelionė į pietų korėją su čedžu sala, kontaktinė informacija, keliautojas 1.

The best time to visit the Gili Islands

Apr 18, 2024 • 5 min read

Choose the time of the year you visit depending on your interests and budget © Luis Martinez / Getty Images

These three islands off the coast of Lombok are the ultimate tropical escape, where you can fully disconnect amongst the palm trees and powdery beaches. Thanks to a ban on motor vehicles, the islands feel like a whole world away from Bali’s crowded streets, allowing you to soak up the peaceful atmosphere no matter when you visit. 

As a rule of thumb, Indonesia has two seasons: the wet season and the dry season. While it varies in each region, the dry season in central Indonesia ( Bali , Lombok and the Gili Islands ) runs from April to September. This is the best time to enjoy the beaches and other outdoor activities. If you visit during the wet season (October to March), expect hot and humid days, tropical downpours and occasional thunderstorms. 

That said, the weather in the Gili Islands isn’t as extreme as other places in Indonesia. The islands have their own microclimate and experience less rain than mainland Lombok. 

Temperatures remain constant throughout the year, ranging between 27°C and 32°C (80°F to 90°F). To get the most out of your trip, here are the best times to visit. 

July, August and December are the busiest months

July and August is peak tourist season in the Gili Islands, which coincides with the height of the dry season. It’s also when most of the northern hemisphere enjoys its summer vacations, so the islands see their fair share of European and American tourists. 

For nightlife, Gili Trawangan is the place to be. It certainly lives up to its reputation as a party island, with clubs, pubs and beach bars offering parties every night of the week. Gili Air has a more relaxed party scene, with a great selection of beach bars playing chilled out beats. If you’re not interested in partying but still want to visit the Gili Islands in high season, Gili Meno is the best pick for you. Known as the “honeymoon island”, it remains extremely quiet – the perfect place to unplug and unwind.

August 17th is Indonesia’s Independence Day, a public holiday where local villages will hold traditional games and competitions. It’s a fun way to learn about the local culture, and visitors are welcome to join in the celebrations. 

December is another busy month for the Gilis, especially with Australian visitors enjoying their summer holidays, as well as those celebrating Christmas and New Year. 

Although Islam is the main religion in Indonesia, Christmas is still celebrated in tourist hotspots, with hotels and restaurants offering festive menus and parties. Keep in mind that December is the height of the wet season, so expect rain and cloud, usually starting in the afternoons. 

While the crowds add to the lively and festive atmosphere, the large number of tourists is also a downside to visiting in July, August and December. It may be more difficult to get a seat at bars and restaurants, and diving and snorkeling sites will be crowded. You should also be prepared to pay inflated rates for accommodation. 

Not sure where to base yourself? Read on for how to choose the best Gili island

April to June plus September are best for avoiding a crowd

Visiting either side of the peak summer months is a good way to beat the masses and high summer prices. The shoulder season also coincides with the beginning and end of the dry season in the Gili Islands. 

April through to June is dry and sunny, with great conditions for outdoor adventures. It’s also a few degrees cooler thanks to the Australian winter. Although waves are slightly larger due to stronger winds, water visibility is excellent, so snorkelling and diving are a must. May to September is the best time to surf, and although the islands aren’t well-known for surfing, there are still a handful of fun waves and rental shops across the three islands. 

Although the summer holidaymakers haven’t arrived yet, the two-week Easter break can get quite busy. Nyepi (Balinese Day of Silence) is observed according to the lunar calendar, falling between March and April each year. As everything in Bali closes and it’s forbidden to leave the house, many tourists choose to escape to the Gilis for a few days. 

In September, the crowds start to thin and the beaches aren’t as packed. It’s nearing the end of the dry season, but you can still enjoy amazing weather. The Gili Festival takes place on Gili Trawangan each September, a four day celebration featuring traditional Sasak cultural performances, live music, art exhibitions, foodie events and competitions. 

October to November and January to March are best for budget travelers

October marks the start of both the rainy season and the low season in the Gili Islands. The crowds have all but disappeared, and the islands are quiet and relaxed for a couple months before a small spike in December and over the new year. While you can still enjoy the beaches in the mornings, there’s plenty to do on wet afternoons, such as yoga classes, beauty treatments in the many spas, or traditional cooking classes. Accommodation prices have come down too, and you’ll often get deals on day trips. 

Bear in mind that although you can still snorkel and dive, the wet season means that water visibility isn’t quite as clear. If you’ve exhausted your options and are looking for more indoor activities, take a day trip to Lombok where you can visit the museum and go souvenir shopping at the local markets (or one of the larger shopping malls in Mataram , complete with a cinema).

Chinese New Year falls between January and February. This is a big public holiday throughout Indonesia, and the Gilis are a popular destination for local tourists to spend a few days. 

A word on Ramadan 

The Islamic month of Ramadan varies annually, moving forward by ten days each year. During this time most of the locals will be fasting throughout the day, meaning that warungs (local eateries) across the Gilis and Lombok are closed until evening. However, restaurants and activities geared towards tourists usually remain open and operational as normal during this time. 

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How insects control their wings: The mysterious mechanics of insect flight

by Lori Dajose, California Institute of Technology

Many of us would love the superpower to fly, and for good reason: Flight offers a crucial evolutionary advantage. Flying enables an animal to travel large distances quickly, in search of food and new habitats, while expending far less energy than walking. Through flight, insects colonized the planet and fostered the massive diversification of flowering plants by acting as efficient pollinators. They also enabled the evolution of other creatures like reptiles, birds, and mammals by serving as ample food supply.

Flight has evolved four times in the history of life on Earth: in birds, bats, pterosaurs, and insects. The first three groups of animals evolved their wings from arms, making these wings straightforward to understand as other similar animals have analogous bones and musculature. Insect wings, however, have no muscles or nerves. They are instead controlled by muscles located inside the body that operate a system of marionette-like pulleys within a complex hinge at the base of the wing.

"The fly wing hinge is perhaps the most mysterious and underappreciated structure in the history of life," says Michael Dickinson, Caltech's Esther M. and Abe M. Zarem Professor of Bioengineering and Aeronautics, and executive officer for biology and biological engineering. "If insects had not evolved this very improbable joint to flap their wings, the world would be a very different place, absent of flowering plants and familiar creatures like birds, bats—and probably humans."

Just how an insect controls this tiny, intricate structure in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster is the subject of a new study by Dickinson and his colleagues. Using high-speed cameras and machine learning , Dickinson's lab collected data on tens of thousands of fly wingbeats and created a map of how fly muscles puppeteer the motion of the wing hinge to create agile aerodynamic flight maneuvers.

The study was published in the journal Nature on April 17.

A fly's wing hinge contains 12 control muscles, with one neuron connected to each. For context, while a hummingbird possesses the same maneuverability as a fly, it uses thousands of motor neurons to execute similar flight maneuvers.

"We didn't want to just predict the wing motion; we wanted to know the role of the individual muscles," says Johan Melis (Ph.D. '23), the study's first author. "We wanted to tie together the biomechanics of the wing hinge to the neural circuits that control it."

First, the team created genetically engineered D. melanogaster in which the muscles controlling the wing hinge would glow with fluorescent light when activated. The researchers then placed the flies in a chamber with three high-speed cameras capable of capturing 15,000 frames per second to measure wing motion, and a microscope to detect the fluorescent activation of the fly's wing hinge muscles.

After collecting more than 80,000 wingbeats, the team applied machine-learning techniques to process the large volume of data and generate a map of how the 12 tiny control muscles act together to precisely regulate wing motion. Previous computer models of fly flight simply described the pattern of wing motion. The new model, in contrast, incorporates how the control muscles alter the mechanics of the wing hinge, producing wing motion.

In follow-up work, the team aims to create a detailed physics-based model that incorporates the biomechanics of the hinge with the aerodynamics of the wings and the underlying neural circuity within the fly's brain. The researchers also plan to collect data from other species of flying insects, like mosquitos and bees, to understand how wing structures evolved to allow sophisticated flight behaviors.

The ultimate goal is to understand the neurobiological connection between a fly's brain and the movement of its wings. "The wing hinge is just the hardware; the real passion in our lab has been the brain–body interface," Dickinson says.

"We want to understand the circuitry between the biomechanics and the neurobiology. Very few times in evolution has an animal had one very successful form of locomotion—walking—and simply added another one—flying. This means that the brains of insects must have all the circuitry to regulate to completely different means of moving."

Journal information: Nature

Provided by California Institute of Technology

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