Jordan Travel Guide
At the Crossroads of History: From the Rose City of Petra to the Martian sands of Wadi Rum.
Jordan: Where Desert Meets History
Jordan is a mesmerizing destination where ancient history intersects with dramatic natural landscapes. It is a land of intense colors: the pink sandstone of Petra, the ochre red sands of Wadi Rum, and the deep blue of the Red Sea. Beyond the scenery, it is the Bedouin hospitality and deep cultural richness that leave the most lasting mark on travelers.
Our Tip
Purchase the Jordan Pass online before you fly. Not only does it cover your entry to Petra, Wadi Rum, and other major sites, but it also waives your entry visa fees. It is the #1 way to save money and time on arrival.
5 Reasons to Pack Your Bags
- Petra: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this Nabataean city carved directly into rock walls is breathtaking.
- Wadi Rum: A spectacular desert with Martian landscapes, famous for its towering rock formations and starry nights.
- The Dead Sea: The unique experience of floating effortlessly at the lowest point on Earth.
- Biblical & Roman History: From the ruins of Jerash to Mount Nebo, the country is an open-air museum.
- Hospitality: The Jordanian tradition of welcome is sincere, often shared over a cup of tea or cardamom coffee.
Where to Stay?
The essential stops to structure your journey.
Amman
Capital & HistoryPetra
The Rose CityWadi Rum
Desert AdventureDead Sea
Wellness & FloatingAqaba
Red Sea DivingJerash
Roman Ruins
Essential Logistics (Stress-Free)
Direct flights from London/Europe to Amman (AMM) take 4-5 hours. From the US, expect 12+ hours (often with a layover).
Passport valid for 6+ months. Visa required (Best option: Buy the Jordan Pass online beforehand).
No mandatory vaccinations for most travelers. Do not drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Note: It is a very strong currency (pegged higher than USD/EUR). Bring cash for small shops.
Desert Climate
Jordan can be visited year-round, but shoulder seasons are the most comfortable:
- Spring (March-May) & Autumn (Sept-Nov): The best times to go. Ideal temperatures for hiking and sightseeing (68-77°F).
- Summer (June-August): Very hot, especially at the Dead Sea, Aqaba, and in the desert (104°F+). Plan activities for early morning.
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Days are cool, desert nights are freezing. Snow is possible in Amman and Petra.
Transport & Accommodation
Transport
Renting a car is ideal for freedom (King’s Highway is iconic). JETT buses connect major cities efficiently. In cities, taxis are useful (ask for the meter or negotiate).
Accommodation
Options range from luxury spas at the Dead Sea to authentic Bedouin camps under the stars in Wadi Rum. Book early in high season.
A Taste of the Levant
Generous and fragrant cuisine, meant for sharing:
- Mansaf: The national dish. Lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt (jameed), served over rice.
- Zarb: Traditional Bedouin BBQ, slow-cooked in an underground oven buried in the sand.
- Mezze: Hummus, falafel, moutabal (eggplant dip), served with fresh flatbread.
- Tea & Coffee: Mint or sage tea is omnipresent, as is Arabic coffee spiced with cardamom.
- Kanafeh: A warm dessert made of cheese, semolina/pastry, and syrup. An institution in downtown Amman.
Suggested Itineraries
Ideas to structure your discovery of the Hashemite Kingdom.
The Essentials (7 Days)
Amman, Jerash, King’s Highway, Petra (2 days), Wadi Rum (1 night), and the Dead Sea.
History & Nature (10 Days)
Add the Dana Biosphere Reserve for hiking, the Desert Castles, and Mount Nebo.
Relaxation & Adventure
Include canyoning in Wadi Mujib and a few days of snorkeling/diving in Aqaba (Red Sea).
Is It For You?
Solo Travelers
Safe and welcoming. Locals are helpful. Public transport and organized group tours make meeting people easy.
Couples
Truly romantic. Think nights under the stars in Wadi Rum, luxury spas at the Dead Sea, or candlelit dinners in front of the Treasury in Petra.
With Kids
Kids love the desert, camels, and floating in the Dead Sea. Note that Petra involves a lot of walking/climbing; for small children, a carrier is better than a stroller.
Budget Travelers
The Jordan Pass is indispensable. Eat falafel and street food. Hostels exist but are less common outside of Amman and Petra.
What’s Next? More Middle East Guides
Continue your adventure in the region.
Regional Guides
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the best time to visit Jordan?
The best times are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November), offering ideal temperatures for exploring the desert and archaeological sites.
Do I need a visa?
Yes, a visa is required. It is highly recommended to buy the Jordan Pass online before your trip, as it includes both the visa fee and entry to Petra at a discounted rate.
What currency is used?
The currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). It is a strong currency (pegged higher than the USD/EUR). Cash is king for daily expenses.
Is it safe?
Yes, Jordan is a stable and very safe country for tourists. Jordanians are famous for their hospitality towards visitors.
Ready to Discover Jordan?
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