# Jordan Jordan is a compact Middle Eastern kingdom, known for the rock-cut city of Petra, the red desert of Wadi Rum, floating in the Dead Sea and the Roman streets of Jerash. Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea fit in one small country. Our Jordan guide covers routes, costs, safety and food, plus how to plan it in the Guided app. Canonical: https://www.go-guided.com/en/destinations/jordan # Jordan # Jordan travel guide: Everything you need to know before visiting Jordan The Siq, the gorge that leads into Petra, narrows to only 3 or 4 metres in places. You walk between walls of pink and orange sandstone, and then the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) appears in the gap at the end, about 37 metres of facade that the Nabataeans carved straight into the cliff. That moment is why most people book a trip to Jordan, and it holds up. What surprises them is how much else sits close by. Jordan covers just under 90,000 square kilometres, so the desert camps of Wadi Rum and the salty shore of the Dead Sea, the lowest land on Earth, are a few hours apart by road. You can float in the morning and stand in a Roman theatre by the afternoon. Compared with Egypt, Jordan is smaller and easier to cross, and it beats the Gulf states for hiking and desert camping. It suits history lovers and hikers, and it works well as a first trip to the Middle East. It suits beach-only holidays less well, since the whole coastline is 26 km long. This Jordan travel guide covers where to go, how long to stay, what it costs and the practical tips worth sorting before you go. ## 5 reasons to visit Jordan Petra alone would justify the flight, but the rest of the country is what turns a long weekend into a proper trip. 1. Walk through the Siq to the Treasury at Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. 2. Sleep in a Bedouin camp under the sandstone cliffs of Wadi Rum. 3. Float in the Dead Sea at the lowest point on land. 4. Wander Roman colonnaded streets and theatres at Jerash. 5. Snorkel coral reefs and a deliberately sunk cargo ship in the Red Sea at Aqaba. ## Where to visit in Jordan? How do you fit a country this varied into one trip? Mostly by accepting that Petra and Wadi Rum need more time than you think, and letting the rest slot in around them. These are the places we'd prioritise, starting with the big two. ### Walk through the Siq to Petra Petra was the Nabataean capital from the 2nd century BC until Rome annexed it in AD 106, and it has been a UNESCO site since 1985. Beyond the Treasury, the Royal Tombs line the cliff, including the Urn Tomb, which became a church in AD 446. A steep climb of hundreds of steps leads to the Monastery (Ad Deir), about 45 metres tall and Petra's largest monument. Buy at least the 2-day ticket, because one day only covers the main valley. Visitors staying overnight in Jordan pay 50 JD for one day, 55 JD for two and 60 JD for three. Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) is free and about 8 km north. Arrive at opening time for the Siq without crowds. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0031", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "The Monastery (Ad Deir) at Petra", "asset": { "_ref": "image-d16c5b79a27b48d4238572b941f48e508d0b3229-2400x1800-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "VYIO66R4xuV@jEt.Vrf+oLV@_4g3MxkCWAIpxvV?WCkC", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.3333333333333333, "height": 1800, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#5b352a", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 8.45, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#5a2812", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0.26, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#997563", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 10.93, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#b4bbd3", "foreground": "#000", "population": 9.22, "title": "#fff" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#d4b7a1", "foreground": "#000", "population": 1.92, "title": "#fff" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#997563", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 10.93, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#ac6044", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0.01, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "YSgOHYSld3ZriHePhld6iWygwxQK" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ### Spend a night in the desert at Wadi Rum Wadi Rum covers about 720 square kilometres of sandstone and granite mountains in the far south, and it's been a UNESCO site since 2011. _Lawrence of Arabia_ and _Dune_ were both filmed here. The Zalabia Bedouin run the camps and the jeep tours, and private cars can't go beyond the village area, so you'll explore by 4WD or camel. A typical tour takes in Lawrence's Spring and the Umm Fruth rock bridge, an easy scramble. Look for the Thamudic and Nabataean inscriptions in Khaz'ali Canyon too. Entry is 5 JD. Don't do it as a day trip. The point of Wadi Rum is the light at sunset and the sky after dark, and you only get both if you sleep there. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0036", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "A pickup truck driving across the sand in Wadi Rum", "asset": { "_ref": "image-0d3d8190b3a14d22bf243c0a7f1c3c38f6bb4adb-2400x3600-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "dnMiySn#M{f5.mniRjWB~Vs:WXoL-ot7xaofE2kDt7of", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 0.6666666666666666, "height": 3600, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#574531", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 2.28, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#713d1b", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0.84, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#e9a070", "foreground": "#000", "population": 5.72, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#d5cab9", "foreground": "#000", "population": 0.13, "title": "#000" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#e9a070", "foreground": "#000", "population": 5.72, "title": "#fff" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#a87350", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 4.18, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#bc7544", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0.99, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "ZUkOJQhnh39393iomIRYmImQmgiZ" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ### Give Amman a full day Plenty of people treat Amman as an airport stop, and we think that's a mistake. The Citadel (Jebel al-Qal'a) holds the Temple of Hercules, built between AD 161 and 166, and the surviving hand and elbow of a statue that would have stood about 13 metres tall. Also on the Citadel is the Umayyad Palace, built under Caliph Hisham in the 8th century, and the Roman Theatre below dates from the same years as the temple. The Jordan Museum, opened in 2014, holds the 'Ain Ghazal statues. Then eat downtown. Hashem Restaurant on Al-Amir Mohammed Street is open 24 hours and has been feeding the city for around half a century. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0041", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "Columns of the Temple of Hercules on the Amman Citadel", "asset": { "_ref": "image-b77256985fc046199b17303bea3a29e0fa39246a-2400x1600-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "ViHf9*WES6a~WWBaogjZWXoIR;RjaJayoeMwofs.oeX9", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.5, "height": 1600, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#4d4233", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 1.55, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#306794", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 7.28, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#5499d8", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 9.77, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#dbcdbe", "foreground": "#000", "population": 9.29, "title": "#000" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#9ec7f4", "foreground": "#000", "population": 0.35, "title": "#fff" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#9f8a70", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 9.65, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#5499d8", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 9.77, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "Z9cFTYyGd5mJd3hndQmZa2dwdgdX" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ### Walk the Roman streets of Jerash Ancient Gerasa, about 48 km north of Amman, joined the Decapolis after Pompey's conquest in 63 BC, and in our view it's one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy. The Arch of Hadrian marks the emperor's visit in AD 129-130. Through it you reach the Oval Plaza, about 90 metres long and ringed by Ionic columns. Beyond it stand the temples of Artemis and Zeus and two theatres. An earthquake in 749 brought much of the city down. Entry is 10 JD or covered by the Jordan Pass, and the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts has been held each summer since 1981. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0046", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "Roman columns among the ruins of Jerash", "asset": { "_ref": "image-6e1d1f4362ee9373542e7e13fdd44e6155c35cfe-2400x1600-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "VKE{@Qz.$$s,V@7jRlxYn#oJIbXnWCaJn$VDozXARkjY", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.5, "height": 1600, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#55402f", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 8.09, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#105481", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0.46, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#4f8cb4", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 8.22, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#95b6c2", "foreground": "#000", "population": 2.59, "title": "#fff" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#8bb5d0", "foreground": "#000", "population": 7.06, "title": "#fff" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#95725a", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 8.14, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#4f8cb4", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 8.22, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "oecFLYqjZ2hmeYilZwiaZ5twtAlo" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ### Float in the Dead Sea The surface of the Dead Sea sits about 430 metres below sea level, and the shoreline around it is the lowest land on Earth. The water is about 34% salt, so you float without trying. The drive from Amman takes 1 to 1.5 hours, and the easiest way in is a resort day pass, from about 10 JD at the Ramada to 50 JD at the Hilton or Marriott, more at weekends. We'd pay for one with proper showers, because you'll need to rinse the salt off. Don't shave for two or three days beforehand, and float for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0051", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "Sunshades on a beach by the Dead Sea", "asset": { "_ref": "image-fcb42244349974619dd630519aae4d1b58236b7a-2400x1870-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "VtHVxas9e.a|ayT#ofj[j[j@spbIflfkazE2s.j[jtj[", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.2834224598930482, "height": 1870, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#644531", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 3.9, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#448c90", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#79a8d9", "foreground": "#000", "population": 6.06, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#b2c3d0", "foreground": "#000", "population": 5.62, "title": "#fff" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#94bae4", "foreground": "#000", "population": 4.46, "title": "#fff" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#558593", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 5.82, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#79a8d9", "foreground": "#000", "population": 6.06, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "Z9cJNYZ3d4iPiHiIeBeIZ4lwuQmm" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ### See the mosaics of Madaba and Mount Nebo In the Greek Orthodox Church of St George in Madaba lies the Madaba Map, a 6th-century floor mosaic of the Holy Land with Jerusalem at its centre. It was originally about 21 by 7 metres and made of over two million tesserae, and about 16 by 5 metres survives. A short drive away, Mount Nebo rises to about 700 metres. This is where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land, and the Memorial Church of Moses shelters more Byzantine mosaics. On a clear day you can see Jericho. Madaba also works as a quieter first or last night than Amman, with a relaxed, walkable centre. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0056", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "A stone sculpture at the entrance to Mount Nebo", "asset": { "_ref": "image-b1016f3d0ea285f9c7dabc0afbbfa6feca2b028b-2400x1600-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "VdLW,[~pkX-.IUt7NHxus.M{M|kCxaRkt7xtRjV@oKWB", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.5, "height": 1600, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#605635", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 2.56, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#4a3604", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 1.5, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#ad976a", "foreground": "#000", "population": 7.24, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#d4c9ac", "foreground": "#000", "population": 2.01, "title": "#000" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#fce7bd", "foreground": "#000", "population": 1.65, "title": "#000" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#ad976a", "foreground": "#000", "population": 7.24, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#a4793e", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0.01, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "ZSkODYB/S3hoiYaGeYh2dzB0NlBW" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ### Visit Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Al-Maghtas) John the Baptist is believed to have baptised Jesus at this spot on the Jordan River, and it became a UNESCO site in 2015. The site reopened to visitors in 2002, and excavations have uncovered churches, baptismal pools and hermit caves, plus a 5th-century monastery on Elijah's Hill (Tell al-Kharrar). Three popes have visited. Bethany isn't included in the Jordan Pass by default, though you can add it when you buy one. We'd pair it with a Dead Sea day. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0061", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "Excavated remains at the baptism site of Bethany Beyond the Jordan", "asset": { "_ref": "image-f740766d0ebdd8ab0c3212a09f95a6faf5dbfa93-2400x1814-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "VNJHdY%iRNM{S51Uksi]axR-GKkZMxxaxuKSbds+afj[", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.3230429988974641, "height": 1814, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#5d442d", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 1.91, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#42301f", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 2.13, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#5fa9f2", "foreground": "#000", "population": 5.8, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#d5c1a7", "foreground": "#000", "population": 3.14, "title": "#fff" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#7bc4f9", "foreground": "#000", "population": 0.03, "title": "#fff" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#a17f5b", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 5, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#5fa9f2", "foreground": "#000", "population": 5.8, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "oxgGLYg/Y1awdZero6uITZVgYggn" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ### Hike from Dana Biosphere Reserve to Feynan Dana is Jordan's largest nature reserve, 308 square kilometres that drop from about 1,500 metres down to the Wadi Araba desert. It's the only reserve in the country that crosses four biogeographical zones, and Nubian ibex live on its slopes. The Wadi Dana Trail takes around 8 hours and ends at Feynan Ecolodge, built in 2005 by the architect Ammar Khammash. Its 26 rooms are lit by locally made candles, and it supports more than 80 Bedouin families. For us, it's the best overnight in Jordan that isn't a desert camp. ### Wade up the gorge at Wadi Mujib Wadi Mujib is the most fun half-day in Jordan in summer. The reserve's visitor centre sits on the Dead Sea Highway, and the self-guided Siq Trail follows the river upstream into a narrow sandstone gorge. It takes 2 to 3 hours and costs 23 JD for non-Jordanians. The water trails open in April and close at the end of October because of winter flash floods. If you'd rather stay dry, the guided Ibex Trail takes 3 to 4 hours and costs the same. ### Spend a few days by the Red Sea in Aqaba Aqaba is Jordan's only coastal city, with all 26 km of the country's coastline on the Gulf of Aqaba. Offshore are more than 30 dive sites and about 500 fish species, and the fringing reefs run for over 25 km. The Cedar Pride cargo ship was sunk on purpose in 1985 and now lies at 12 to 26 metres. You don't need a boat for the reefs. Snorkel straight from the beaches south of town. On land, the Mamluk-era Aqaba Fortress dates from the early 16th century. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0074", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "The Gulf of Aqaba with the city of Aqaba and its mountains behind", "asset": { "_ref": "image-6e994170ac4ce09cff58e050614132ba66434781-2400x1600-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "VqG9gcj@ayjubH?wWWa|j[ayX9a#jtayj[IVjsj[fkj@", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.5, "height": 1600, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDAAYEBQYFBAYGBQYHBwYIChAKCgkJChQODwwQFxQYGBcUFhYaHSUfGhsjHBYWICwgIyYnKSopGR8tMC0oMCUoKSj/2wBDAQcHBwoIChMKChMoGhYaKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCj/wAARCAANABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMHBv/EACUQAAEDAgQHAQAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAgQDBQYhMZIREyNBRHGCkf/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQBAv/EAB0RAAIBBAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQIDElEhMUH/2gAMAwEAAhEDEQA/ANkzEFlGs+PvCa3EVlHnR94UfZbYz6nUYD6ySJ1rj06jeW0tB7apCuz22F5XhZziWz8cpdI/QQo4y00iwEuP4hazp2yS9H//2Q==", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#2c455d", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 1.7, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#1d3f5a", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 7.95, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#1d3f5a", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 7.95, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#acbbd1", "foreground": "#000", "population": 7.74, "title": "#fff" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#a5badc", "foreground": "#000", "population": 1.76, "title": "#fff" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#71968d", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0.65, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#3c648c", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "Y+cRDYB3h3h/iHeId0iHeHlQmPlF" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ### Stop at Karak Castle on the King's Highway The King's Highway is the slow road south from Amman to Petra, about 4 hours compared with 3 on the Desert Highway, and it runs through Madaba and Karak to Dana. Karak Castle is the main reason to take it. Building began in the 1140s, Raynald of Châtillon held it from 1176, and Saladin besieged it twice before it finally surrendered in 1188. It's one of the largest castles in the Levant, and entry is 2 JD. Check current FCDO and US advice before you plan a stop. ## Jordan itinerary ideas for your trip The drive from Amman to Petra takes about 3 hours on the Desert Highway, and Aqaba to Wadi Rum is about 60 km, so a first loop is easy to plan. Whichever you pick, we'd give Petra at least two full days, even if something else has to go. ### 5 to 7 day Jordan itinerary - **Day 1-2**: Amman for the Citadel and dinner downtown, plus a half day at Jerash. - **Day 3**: Madaba and Mount Nebo, then the King's Highway south to Wadi Musa, with a stop at Karak if advice allows. - **Day 4-5**: Petra on a 2-day ticket, with Little Petra on the second afternoon. - **Day 6**: Wadi Rum jeep tour and a night in a desert camp. - **Day 7**: Drive back to Amman on the Desert Highway, or fly from Aqaba. For a Dead Sea version, swap Day 3 for the Dead Sea and Bethany Beyond the Jordan, then take the Desert Highway to Petra. ### 10 to 14 day Jordan itinerary - **Day 1-2**: Amman for the Citadel and downtown food. - **Day 3**: Jerash and Ajloun Castle, or As-Salt. - **Day 4-5**: Dead Sea and Bethany Beyond the Jordan, plus Wadi Mujib from April to October. - **Day 6**: Madaba and Mount Nebo. - **Day 7-8**: King's Highway via Karak to Dana, then hike the Wadi Dana Trail to Feynan. - **Day 9-11**: Petra on a 3-day ticket, including Little Petra. Add Petra by Night if it's running. - **Day 12-13**: Wadi Rum, one or two nights in camp. - **Day 14**: Aqaba for snorkelling, then fly back to Amman. You can build either route day by day, or adjust it to your own pace, in the **Guided travel planning app**.## Fun things to do in Jordan What do you do in Jordan once you've seen the ruins? Get out into the landscape. Wading a gorge will stay with you longer than another temple, and these are the activities we'd build a trip around. ### Take a jeep tour and sleep in a Wadi Rum camp Jeep tours usually cost 40 to 60 JD per person and cover the canyons and rock bridges between the camps. Book a camp inside the protected area and stay at least one night. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0147", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "A desert camp below the cliffs of Wadi Rum", "asset": { "_ref": "image-dce4b8d34764d5a980f041da1887c7cfcdf8dcac-2400x3600-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "dcH2NBS$Rjs:ysxuaeR+XnoLt7t7IUWAozoLIUWBNHWB", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 0.6666666666666666, "height": 3600, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#523c31", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 8.38, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#4c1c0c", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#9f7d69", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 8.93, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#acbccc", "foreground": "#000", "population": 0.16, "title": "#fff" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#d8baab", "foreground": "#000", "population": 3.88, "title": "#fff" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#9f7d69", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 8.93, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#c39c7b", "foreground": "#000", "population": 0.12, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "YBgKJQh2eK93l5hZh3R2mYaAZAhI" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ### See Petra by Night Is it worth staying up for? We think so, if you can catch it. Petra by Night runs on Sunday to Thursday evenings from 8.30pm to 10.30pm and costs 30 JD, on top of a valid day ticket. The show was reimagined in May 2025, so check the current schedule before you plan around it. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0152", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "The Treasury at Petra lit up at night", "asset": { "_ref": "image-b579e6643c3246342a93c3ec66146cc678db7800-2400x1600-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "V99FsHSgEgoLSg0gay$%WVjZt7xFjZj[s.}YS2NvWCJ8", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.5, "height": 1600, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDAAYEBQYFBAYGBQYHBwYIChAKCgkJChQODwwQFxQYGBcUFhYaHSUfGhsjHBYWICwgIyYnKSopGR8tMC0oMCUoKSj/2wBDAQcHBwoIChMKChMoGhYaKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCj/wAARCAANABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUEBgj/xAAhEAABBAMAAQUAAAAAAAAAAAACAAEDBAUREhMhMWFxgf/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQCA//EABwRAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEDAAIEIREiQf/aAAwDAQACEQMRAD8Ay9XgOUtMpbYyUnZh9fpPqeUr1Hn8OMr6EdN07l+pxNkmgoRWYqtcSMOuefZ9od3XB0I9WOojsZQ5KMoFrToT+xlfNK5lVh2/whUGX9EzKl86M//Z", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#48382c", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#7f2b0a", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 1.17, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#7f2b0a", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 1.17, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#bcc4a4", "foreground": "#000", "population": 0, "title": "#fff" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#f8c8a2", "foreground": "#000", "population": 0.9, "title": "#000" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#9c746c", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#e0501c", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0.01, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "higKHYZWeHiAeIiHiLh3dFaAVgVo" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ### Cool off on the Mujib Siq Trail We'd save the Siq Trail for the hottest day of your trip. You spend most of the 2 to 3 hours wading upstream between sandstone walls, so wear shoes that can get soaked. ### Dive the wrecks off Aqaba Divers have more choice than 26 km of coast suggests. Alongside the Cedar Pride, there's a tank at 6 metres and a C-130 Hercules at 13 metres, and in 2019 an underwater military museum of 19 vehicles was sunk at 13 to 28 metres. ### Hike a stretch of the Jordan Trail The Jordan Trail, founded in 2015, runs about 650 km in 35 sections down to Aqaba. If you only have one long day, we'd pick the Wadi Dana Trail, about 8 hours down to Feynan. The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) runs group trails in Dana that include a guide and entry. ## When to go to Jordan? Go in spring or autumn. April to early June and late September to November give warm days for walking. Summer highs reach 37 to 39 °C at the Dead Sea and Aqaba. Rain falls mostly between November and March, when snow can fall around Petra, and desert nights are cold outside summer. Ramadan in 2027 runs from about 8 February to 9 March, when you shouldn't eat, drink or smoke in public in daylight, and some sites may close early. - **Spring**: the best walking weather and green hills, and Wadi Mujib reopens in April. - **Summer**: very hot, but the best time for diving at Aqaba and wading at Mujib. Petra is quieter. - **Autumn**: warm days and cooler evenings, the second peak season. - **Winter**: cold and wet in Amman and Petra with possible snow, and Mujib is closed, but Aqaba and the Dead Sea stay mild (around 20 °C in January).[grid: non-text section] ## Where to stay in Jordan? Most trips here use four or five bases, because the sights run in a line from north to south. A 3-star hotel usually costs 40 to 80 JD a night and a budget guesthouse 15 to 35 JD, with 5-star hotels from about 120 JD. ### Stay in Amman for food and the first night Downtown and Jabal Amman put you close to the Citadel and the Roman Theatre, and to the best of the city's food. JETT coaches leave from Abdali, so it suits a first night. ### Base yourself in Wadi Musa for Petra Wadi Musa is the town at Petra's gate, and staying here means you can walk to the entrance for opening time. Give it two nights at the very least. Some hotels in the Petra region closed in 2026, so book somewhere with recent reviews. ### Sleep in a camp inside Wadi Rum The Zalabia Bedouin run the camps, and many serve zarb for dinner. One night is the minimum, and we'd take two if you want a slow morning and a sunrise. ### Choose a resort on the Dead Sea The resorts cluster on one strip near the convention centre, from the Ramada up to the Kempinski. We'd stay one night rather than doing a day trip if you want a sunset by the water. ### Stay in Aqaba for the reefs Choose between the city centre and the Tala Bay and Ayla resorts if you want to be on the beach. The airport is about 20 minutes from the centre. > **Guided tip: **Book your Wadi Rum camp directly with a camp inside the protected area and arrange to be picked up at the visitor centre, so you don't end up at a camp outside the reserve. ## Getting around when visiting Jordan A hire car is the easiest way to see Jordan, and we'd recommend one if you're confident on unfamiliar roads. That said, the main route from Amman to Petra and Aqaba works fine without one. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0223", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "A road crossing the desert on the way to Wadi Rum", "asset": { "_ref": "image-82baed63dbe979ce523e24a2f69335a7c6a5c7fa-2400x1800-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "V*G*?QNGbHoMaxGdn$oea}jsIuoIWXWVj]rVazazn%bH", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.3333333333333333, "height": 1800, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#754b3a", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 5.04, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#662b17", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 3, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#4679c0", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 7.17, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#beceda", "foreground": "#000", "population": 0.9, "title": "#000" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#7cb7ef", "foreground": "#000", "population": 5.65, "title": "#fff" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#bb8470", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 1.16, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#4679c0", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 7.17, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "4BcKZZKEeHePeHiEd0h3doeAdgdo" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ### Take JETT coaches between the big stops JETT is the state coach company. Its daily Petra service leaves Amman's Abdali station at around 6.30am and returns from Petra at around 5pm, and many departures a day run from Amman to Aqaba in about 4 hours. Fares are usually 10 to 20 JD, and you can book at jett.com.jo. Public minibuses also run from Amman's South Station to Petra between 9am and 4pm, leaving when full. ### Hire a car for the King's Highway and Dana You drive on the right, and you'll need an International Driving Permit alongside your licence. Expect speed bumps everywhere and police checkpoints where you show your passport or licence. Hire cars must carry a fire extinguisher and a warning triangle, so check the boot before you leave the rental desk. Avoid driving at night in rural areas, and don't take a rental onto the sand in Wadi Rum. Rentals start at about 20 to 25 JD a day. ### Use Uber and Careem in Amman In the capital, Uber and Careem are the simplest way to get around, and the UK government recommends them over yellow taxis. If you do take a yellow taxi, it should use the meter. A taxi from the airport to Amman costs about 20 JD. ### Fly between Amman and Aqaba Royal Jordanian flies between the two cities in about 45 minutes, which saves a 4-hour drive back north at the end of a trip. > **Guided tip: **Hire a car for the King's Highway section, since the coaches and minibuses run on the Desert Highway and skip Karak and Dana entirely. ## Food and drinks you should try when visiting Jordan Mezze is the default way to eat here, with bowls of labneh and tabbouleh arriving with the bread before anything else. A local meal costs 3 to 6 JD, and a falafel sandwich 0.50 to 1 JD. ### Share a platter of mansaf Mansaf is the national dish, lamb cooked in a sauce of jameed (dried yoghurt) and served over rice or bulgur on a shared platter. Jameed stands for generosity, and you eat with your right hand, from the part of the platter in front of you. If you only try one Jordanian dish, make it this one. ### Try zarb in Wadi Rum or Petra Zarb is Bedouin barbecue, with meat and vegetables cooked in an underground oven. Camps in Wadi Rum and restaurants around Petra often serve it to visitors, and it's the meal we'd pick for a night in the desert. ### Eat falafel and hummus downtown in Amman Jordanian falafel tends to be smaller than the versions you find abroad, and we think it's best straight from the fryer. Hashem in downtown Amman is the classic place to order it, with hummus and fuul on the side. ### Finish with knafeh Knafeh is cheese under shredded pastry, soaked in syrup. It's the best dessert in the country, and we'd order it even after a plate of mansaf. ### Drink Arabic coffee and sage tea Qahwa sada, Arabic coffee spiced with cardamom, comes in tiny cups on formal occasions. Gently shake the cup to show you've had enough. Sweet black tea with mint or sage is poured everywhere else, all day. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0267", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "A brass dallah, the pot used to make Arabic coffee", "asset": { "_ref": "image-98872b52bc9728f0edaa3130ac8dcd8218a2e62e-2400x3457-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "d7C$.I~nEV9c004o%2?aFiXBs7ROH??FtQI^IpWYMxRO", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 0.6942435637836274, "height": 3457, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#4d462a", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 5.13, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#6e6605", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 5.13, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#c1beb8", "foreground": "#000", "population": 5.38, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#c1beb8", "foreground": "#000", "population": 5.38, "title": "#fff" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#ebdeb7", "foreground": "#000", "population": 0.28, "title": "#000" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#918861", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 4.84, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#c4a636", "foreground": "#000", "population": 1.34, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "kwkGHQKadTCpeIg3ioaGhwyLcnMH" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` ## Culture and local habits you'll notice when visiting Jordan Hospitality is taken seriously in Jordan. The Zalabia Bedouin of Wadi Rum and the Ata'ta of Dana welcome visitors as guests, and if you're invited into a home, bring sweets rather than offering money. If someone offers you tea or coffee, we'd always accept. Jordan is a Hashemite monarchy of about 11.5 million people, ruled by King Abdullah II since 1999 and independent since 25 May 1946. Arabic is the official language. About 95% of people are Muslim and about 3% Christian, and in Christian towns like Madaba alcohol is easy to find. ```json:object { "_key": "jo0272", "_type": "mainImage", "alt": "A Bedouin man sitting on the sand in Wadi Rum", "asset": { "_ref": "image-b12c3b1dfc3fd4c358d45245627d1abd18ba401e-2400x3840-jpg", "_type": "reference" }, "layout": "intrinsic", "markDefs": null, "metadata": { "_type": "sanity.imageMetadata", "blurHash": "dpJQ~8%LWVWq.Tt7j[j[D%RkkCoLDhWBkCWVNGofj[ay", "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 0.625, "height": 3840, "width": 2400 }, "hasAlpha": false, "isOpaque": true, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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", "palette": { "_type": "sanity.imagePalette", "darkMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#653a35", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0.74, "title": "#fff" }, "darkVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#5d200a", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0.29, "title": "#fff" }, "dominant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#a56854", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 6.89, "title": "#fff" }, "lightMuted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#b4c4ca", "foreground": "#000", "population": 1.45, "title": "#fff" }, "lightVibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#d57350", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0.06, "title": "#fff" }, "muted": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#a56854", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 6.89, "title": "#fff" }, "vibrant": { "_type": "sanity.imagePaletteSwatch", "background": "#d46c44", "foreground": "#fff", "population": 0, "title": "#fff" } }, "thumbHash": "oigSLAx594hIh4NoqId4gIcHiA==" }, "objectFit": "fill" } ``` Ask before photographing people, especially women. Public affection between men and women is frowned upon, even for married couples. Bars and hotels serve alcohol, but drinking in the street is illegal. In restaurants, leave about 10% if service isn't included, and 5 to 10 JD a day for a driver or guide.[newsletterForm: non-text section] ## Costs of a holiday to Jordan Numbeo's mid-2026 cost-of-living index puts Jordan level with Turkey, cheaper than the Gulf states, including the United Arab Emirates, and far below Israel, while Egypt still works out cheaper day to day. In our view that makes Jordan good value, with one big exception. Entry fees add up fast. A Petra ticket costs 50 to 60 JD for visitors staying overnight and the Jordan Pass 70 to 80 JD, so budget for those first. The dinar is pegged to the US dollar at about 0.71 JD per dollar.[grid: non-text section] ## Practical tips for visiting Jordan What's worth sorting before you land? Entry and money come first, and the travel advice deserves a fresh check right before you book. ### ✔ Buy the Jordan Pass before you fly Most visitors need a visa. Many nationalities, including the UK, EU and US, can get a single-entry visa on arrival at the airports for 40 JD, valid for 3 months. UK travellers need at least 6 months' passport validity, so check the rule for your own passport. The Jordan Pass costs 70 JD with one day at Petra, 75 JD with two and 80 JD with three. It covers more than 40 sites and waives the visa fee if you stay at least three nights. Stays over 14 days need police registration. Confirm the rules on the official site and GOV.UK entry requirements before you travel. ### ✔ Carry small dinar notes Cards work in hotels and mid-range restaurants. Street food, taxis, buses and extras in Wadi Rum are cash, and 50 JD notes can be hard to break, so ask for smaller ones. ### ✔ Book the early JETT to Petra a day ahead Without a car, the 6.30am JETT coach from Abdali is the easiest way to reach Petra, arriving at about 9.50am. Book it at least a day ahead at jett.com.jo, and plan to stay in Wadi Musa rather than riding the 5pm coach back the same day. ### ✔ Check the travel advice and your flights before booking Crime rates are low, though pickpocketing and bag snatching happen. Jordan is not a party to the 2026 regional conflict, but it has intercepted missiles crossing its airspace, and flights can be disrupted at short notice. Airlines have cut and restored routes several times in 2026. The UK FCDO advises against all travel within 3 km of the Syrian border. The US State Department rates Jordan Level 3, Reconsider travel, with Level 4 along the borders with Syria and Iraq. Check both, and your airline, before you book. ### ✔ Dress to cover shoulders and knees Long trousers for men and loose clothing covering arms and legs for women work everywhere from mosques to downtown Amman. Resorts are more relaxed. ### ✔ Stay out of the wadis after heavy rain Flash floods are a real risk from November to March. Avoid canyons and dry riverbeds for a day after heavy rain, which is also why Wadi Mujib closes in winter. ## Fun facts about Jordan These are the details that tend to surprise people on a first trip. - Petra was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. - The Dead Sea's water level drops by more than a metre a year. - Wadi Rum stood in for Mars in _The Martian_. - The Madaba Map is one of the oldest surviving maps of the Holy Land. - Jordan's highest peak, Jabal Umm ad Dami, rises to about 1,840 metres in the Wadi Rum area. - Johann Ludwig Burckhardt reached Petra in 1812 disguised as a local. Jordan's history is still being added to. In April 2025, a cartouche of the Egyptian pharaoh Ramesses III was announced in Wadi Rum, so look at the rock walls on your jeep tour as well as the views.Ready to map out your trip to Jordan? We hope this Jordan travel guide has given you a clear starting point for your trip. Stay tuned for more inspiration, itineraries and practical tips to help you shape your perfect holiday to Jordan. And don't forget to check out our **Guided trip planner**, where you can create your own trip or use trips shared by other travellers for free.## FAQS about visiting Jordan ### How many days do you need in Jordan? Five to seven days covers Amman, Jerash, Petra and a night in Wadi Rum. With 10 to 14 days you can add the Dead Sea, Wadi Mujib, the Dana to Feynan hike and Aqaba without rushing. In the **Guided app**, you can build your route and see how many stops fit into the days you have.### What is the best part of Jordan to visit? Petra comes first, and it deserves two days rather than one. Wadi Rum is the place to spend a night, and Dana is the best part of the country for hiking.### What is Jordan known for? Jordan is best known for Petra, the red desert of Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and the Roman city of Jerash. Bedouin hospitality and mansaf, the national dish, come up just as often once people have been.### Can you get around Jordan without a car? Yes, for the main route. JETT coaches link Amman with Petra and Aqaba, and Uber and Careem work in Amman. Minibuses fill some of the gaps. The King's Highway and Dana are much easier with a car or a driver.### Is Jordan expensive for a holiday? Day-to-day costs are similar to Turkey, cheaper than the Gulf and far below Israel. The big fixed costs are Petra at 50 to 60 JD for overnight visitors and the Jordan Pass at 70 to 80 JD.### Is Jordan safe to visit? Crime rates are low, and Jordan is not a party to the 2026 regional conflict, though it has intercepted missiles over its territory and flights can be disrupted. The UK FCDO advises against all travel within 3 km of the Syrian border, and the US rates Jordan Level 3, Reconsider travel, with Level 4 along the Syrian and Iraqi borders. Check both before booking.### Is the Jordan Pass worth it? Yes, if you're visiting Petra and staying at least three nights. It waives the 40 JD visa fee and includes Petra and Jerash among more than 40 sites.### What should you wear in Jordan? Cover your shoulders and knees, with long trousers for men and loose clothing for women. Resorts at the Dead Sea and Aqaba are more relaxed, and a warm layer helps on desert nights outside summer.