An absolute must-visit in the Middle East is definitely Jordan. I can’t even describe how blown away I was when I was visiting Jordan for the first time. It quickly became a dream trip for me! There’s just so much to see and do, from the ancient city of Petra to the serene Dead Sea, the stunning Wadi Rum, and the rich Bedouin culture. Not to mention the amazing food and lively souks in Amman! You can probably tell I’m fascinated by Jordanian culture and all the outdoor adventures there.
We just got back from Jordan, and I’m so excited to share a full Jordan travel guide with you all! This way, you’ll be well-prepared and know exactly what to expect.
- Why Visit Jordan?
- Jordan Itinerary
- Best Time to Visiting Jordan
- How to Get to Jordan & Visa Requirements
- How to Get Around in Jordan
- Where to stay in Jordan
- What to do in Jordan
- The Ancient City of Petra Jordan
- Wadi Rum
- Dead Sea
- Amman
- Jerash
- Wadi Mujib
- Jordan Travel Tips: Jordan Pass
- Jordan Travel Tips
Why Visit Jordan?
The big, obvious reason to visit Jordan is, of course, to see Petra. I completely agree with that. Walking through the ancient ruins of Petra is a mind-blowing experience, more than enough reason to make the journey. However, there are many other amazing reasons to explore Jordan.
For starters, besides Petra, there are numerous interesting and fun activities in Jordan. You can float in the Dead Sea, explore the ancient ruins of Jerash, shop in the souks of Amman, or meet the Bedouins in Wadi Rum. Honestly, the list is endless.
Moreover, Jordanian culture is incredibly rich, and the people are extremely hospitable. I felt truly welcome during my trip and never once felt unsafe while traveling there.
Another great reason to visit Jordan is the food! The blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine creates delicious dishes that I still crave to this day. From falafel and hummus to shawarma and knafeh, there’s something for every taste bud.
Jordan Itinerary
If you’re planning a trip to Jordan, I highly recommend spending at least 7-10 days there. This will give you enough time to explore the main sites fully and have some downtime to relax.
Depending on how much time you have, focus on what’s important. If you’re short on time, definitely prioritize Petra, Wadi Rum, and Amman. If you have more time, you can add places like the Dead Sea, Wadi Mujib, and Aqaba.
For a complete Jordan itinerary tailored to your needs, check out my Jordan itineraries.
Best Time for Visiting Jordan
If you’re planning a trip to Jordan, spring or fall is the way to go. From March to May or October to November, the weather is just perfect for exploring. But if you’re looking to dodge the crowds and save some money on hotels etc, winter (December-February) isn’t a bad choice either.
We visited Jordan in August because it suited our schedule, but wow, it was hot! We quickly learned to leave the hotel closer to sunset when it was cooler. We had to visit Petra first thing in the morning at 6 a.m.—no crowds and no scorching heat! Definitely something to keep in mind if you’re planning your own adventure!
How to Get to Jordan & Visa Requirements
Getting to Jordan is super easy. With two international airports—Queen Alia International in Amman and King Hussein in Aqaba—starting your journey here is a breeze. Most flights from Europe and the US land at Queen Alia, and from there, you can hop into a taxi or rent a car to reach your destination.
Here’s some great news: for most countries, you don’t need a visa before arriving in Jordan! You can get a 30-day single-entry visa right at the airport for about 40 JOD (around $56 USD).
Pro Tip: Definitely get the Jordan Pass before you go! It covers your visa costs, and I’ll share more about it later in the post. It’s a total game-changer!
How to Get Around in Jordan
When it comes to getting around in Jordan, you’ve got two main options and it depends a little on your travel style: public transportation or renting your own car.
Public Transportation: It’s super cheap! Seriously, it’s a bargain. But you’ll need to be a bit flexible with times and schedules. Most cities are connected by buses, and there are some comfy coach options for longer distances. I haven’t tried it yet, but I’ve heard great things about the JETT bus. It links up bigger cities like Amman and Petra, and it’s supposedly comfortable and budget-friendly.
Renting a Car: If you crave flexibility and freedom (and don’t mind driving on the left!), this is the way to go. The roads in Jordan are well-maintained, so getting around is a breeze. Driving in Amman can be a bit wild, but once you’re on the King’s Highway, you can cruise all the way down to Aqaba and the Red Sea, passing by Wadi Rum and Petra.
Where to stay in Jordan
With so many different places to explore in Jordan, it’s important to know where to stay. There are plenty of great hotels all around Jordan, including many of the major chains. Here are some of our favorites:
($$$) Dead Sea Marriott Resort
The Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa is a full-on luxury resort with a private beach on the Dead Sea. It’s just perfect for turning your Dead Sea experience into a luxurious spa experience.
Click here for more information & bookings
($) Petra Plaza View Hostel
If you’re traveling on a budget, then the Plaza View Hostel is perfect. The owners are super friendly, and the whole place has a great family vibe. Breakfast is included and served upstairs on the roof, and it’s delicious. Additionally, the rooms offer a great view over the nearby valley, and the sunsets are just stunning.
Click here for more information & bookings
What to do in Jordan
I’ve already shared some major highlights and my favorite activities here in Jordan a couple of times, but now let’s dive a little deeper! I want to spill the beans on what there really is to do and offer you some handy tips and tricks on all my go-to activities and must-visit spots.
The Ancient City of Petra Jordan
Petra Jordan, also known as the Rose City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Jordan’s most famous attractions. This ancient city is carved into the rock and surrounded by mountains, making it an incredibly unique sight to see.
There’s so much to explore in Petra, like the Treasury, the Monastery, and the High Place of Sacrifice. The Treasury is the star of the show! I’d suggest planning a whole day here because it’s a vast area, and everything is on foot. Pack your bags with water and snacks since there’s just one so-so restaurant around. Most nearby hotels and hostels offer takeaway lunch packs for this specific reason—take advantage of that!
A pro tip: Grab the Jordan Pass for your tickets and aim to arrive by 5:45 a.m., or even earlier. Petra Jordan opens at 6, and there was already a line when we showed up early. Getting there before the crowd means you can have a peaceful moment at the Treasury, the first site you hit after the Visitor Center. It’s just so much better to take photos and soak in the views without a sea of tourists and camels around. Plus, you’ll dodge the heat—a huge win!
Wadi Rum
Welcome to Wadi Rum, often called the Valley of the Moon, and trust me, it lives up to the name! The breathtaking desert scenery makes you feel like you’re on another planet. This protected area has been home to Bedouin nomads for centuries and offers so many cool activities. You can take an awesome jeep tour through the red sand dunes or spend an unforgettable night under the stars in a traditional Bedouin camp.
Here’s how it usually works: you enter the National Park at the visitor center, and just a few minutes later, you’ll reach the only town in Wadi Rum. That’s where you’ll get picked up to head to your camp. Everything—from food to tours—is arranged through your camp, which makes everything a breeze. You’re in the middle of the desert, so that’s pretty much your only option anyway, but don’t worry, it’s all part of the adventure. We did a full-day jeep tour, complete with sandboarding, hiking, a camel ride, lunch, and a sunset, and let me tell you, it was absolutely magical!
Since your experience really depends on your camp, here are some popular recommendations. There are loads of different camps, ranging from budget-friendly to super luxurious.
($$$) Memories Aicha Luxury Camp
Memories Aicha Luxury camp is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a more upscale experience. They offer beautiful tents with private bathrooms and even have a pool, which is definitely a luxury in the desert!
Click here for more information & bookings
($) Wadi Tribe
Wadi Tribe is a budget friendly option that still offers an authentic Bedouin experience. You can choose between sleeping in a traditional tent or a desert hut, and the hosts are known for their hospitality and delicious food.
Click here for more information & bookings
Dead Sea
Alright, so I feel like I should be upfront with all my recommendations, so here’s my honest take on the Dead Sea. If you’re curious to see it, float around a bit, and have the spare time, go for it. Otherwise, you won’t really miss out if you skip it.
The Dead Sea is unique and worth a visit if you’ve never been. It’s the lowest point on Earth, which is pretty cool. Plus, floating in the salty water is definitely an experience. But honestly, there’s not much else to do here. Also, I think the whole floating in the Dead Sea thing is a bit unpleasant. It’s super hot outside, and now the water is pretty hot too. Plus, it’s insanely salty, which just feels uncomfortable overall.
If you’re short on time or have been to other beach spots, skipping the Dead Sea isn’t a big deal. However, if you have extra time, adding it to your itinerary could be nice. I’d recommend staying at a resort along the coast for a chill day or two. We usually travel on a budget, but splurging on a nice resort hotel by the Dead Sea really improved the experience and made it worthwhile.
Amman
Amman totally took me by surprise. I went in with low expectations, but it turned out to be such a cool and lively city with tons to see and do.
One of the highlights for me was the food. Honestly, Jordanian cuisine is incredible! Make sure you try falafel, hummus, shawarma, mansaf (a traditional lamb dish), and Kunafeh (a sweet cheese dessert) before you leave.
Besides the amazing food, Amman has some cool historical sites like the Citadel and the Roman Theatre, which are definitely worth a visit and are included in the Jordan Pass.
If you’re into shopping, head to Al-Balad or Rainbow Street for unique souvenirs and local goods.
We did a free walking tour in Jabal Amman, and I totally recommend it. It’s super helpful to explore the city with a local who can show you the best food spots and markets.
Jerash
If you’re into ancient Roman ruins, then Jerash is a must-visit in Jordan. The ancient ruins are incredibly well-preserved, and you can easily spend a few hours exploring. We took a day trip from Amman to Jerash, but I would recommend staying overnight if possible.
The town of Jerash is small and charming, with some great local restaurants. Make sure you get the Jordan Pass before visiting Jerash, as it includes entry to the ruins and saves you money. If you’re interested in history or just love exploring ancient sites, then definitely put Jerash on your itinerary!
Wadi Mujib
While most of your Jordan trip will be all about sightseeing and soaking up the local culture, there’s a splash of adventure waiting for you too. If you’re looking to get active, Wadi Mujib is where it’s at!
Wadi Mujib is a canyon with hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural pools to dive into. It’s the perfect way to escape the hot Jordanian sun and soak in some stunning natural beauty.
At the visitor center, they suit you up with a life jacket and a dry bag. Then off you go, venturing through the canyon! Nobody really briefs you on what’s to come but trust me, you’ll end up completely drenched! You’ll be trudging through waterfalls, climbing up ladders within them, and wading through water, so make sure that your dry bag is sealed tight.
So much fun though!
Must-Try Food in Jordan (Middle East)
I was absolutely obsessed with the Jordanian food I tried during my trip. The spices and flavors were out of this world! Here are some must-try dishes:
Mansaf
Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan, and it’s a must-try for any foodie visiting the country. It consists of lamb cooked in yogurt sauce and served on top of rice or bulgur. It’s usually garnished with almonds and pine nuts, giving it a delicious crunch.
Falafel
You can’t go to Jordan without trying their falafel! These deep-fried balls made from chickpeas are a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. You can find them at almost every street corner, but I highly recommend trying them at Hashem Restaurant in Amman, where they have hands down the best falafel in the country.
Kunafa
Kunafa is a popular dessert in Jordan, made with layers of thin pastry, cheese, and syrup. I know, I know, it sounds weird—sweet cheese dessert? Trust me, it’s incredible. I like to add some vanilla or pistachio ice cream on top of mine; it’s a game-changer.
My favorite Kunafa restaurant in Amman is Habibah Sweets, and it’s definitely worth visiting!
Jordan Travel Tips: Jordan Pass
If you’re planning to visit Jordan, getting the Jordan Pass is a smart move. It not only saves you money but also makes your trip much more convenient. The pass covers entry to over 40 tourist sites in Jordan, including Petra and Wadi Rum, and even waives the visa fee for non-restricted nationalities.
Honestly, not getting the Jordan Pass doesn’t make sense. The pass costs only US$100. The entrance fee to Petra for a day is US$60, and the visa to Jordan will cost you US$56, so just with those two, you’ve already got your money’s worth. Plus, you gain free access to Wadi Rum, Jerash, the Amman Citadel, and many other attractions. It’s a no-brainer, really.
Click here for more information
Jordan Travel Tips
Traveling to Jordan is an adventure like no other, and having a few insider tips can make your journey even smoother. First off, let’s talk about safety and health. Jordan is generally a safe place for tourists, but it’s always smart to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It’s best not to wander alone at night in Amman, and use common sense, but honestly, that’s good advice for most big cities.
When it comes to money, you’ll be using the Jordanian dinar. Most places accept credit cards, but it’s handy to have some cash for market purchases or street vendors.
Finally, language and communication are easy if you know a bit of Arabic. It’s the official language, and while English is widely spoken, learning a few simple greetings in Arabic can really enhance your experience and help you connect with the welcoming people of Jordan.
Jordan Travel Guide – Final Words
I’m such a big fan of Jordan and highly recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable travel experience. From the ancient city of Petra to the stunning desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the bustling markets of Amman, it’s a truly unique experience.
For anyone who hasn’t been to any Middle Eastern countries yet, Jordan is a fantastic start! With the convenience and savings provided by the Jordan Pass, there’s no excuse not to visit! So pack your bags, brush up on your Arabic phrases, and get ready for a journey you’ll never forget. Happy travels!
