Jordan, a realm of profound history and breathtaking landscapes, offers a journey that resonates with the soul. This is the Hashemite Kingdom, a land of legendary hospitality where ancient traditions and modern life coexist in remarkable harmony. A 5-day adventure in Jordan is an immersion into the very cradle of civilization. Stand in awe before the Treasury in Petra, the rose-red city half as old as time, carved from solid rock by the Nabataeans over two millennia ago. Feel the uncanny buoyancy of the Dead Sea, the Earth’s lowest point, and cover yourself in its mineral-rich mud for a natural spa treatment unlike any other. Journey into the vast, silent desert of Wadi Rum, where crimson sands and towering rock formations create a landscape so otherworldly it has starred as Mars in Hollywood blockbusters. Sleep under a canopy of brilliant stars in a Bedouin camp, sharing stories over sweet tea and experiencing the timeless warmth of desert culture. Explore the magnificent Roman ruins of Jerash, one of the best-preserved provincial Roman cities in the entire empire. Beyond these world-class sites, Jordan’s appeal lies in its details: the taste of freshly baked flatbread and savory mansaf, the vibrant chaos of Amman’s downtown souks, and the call to prayer echoing over ancient hills. It’s a country that is both safe and incredibly welcoming, where every interaction is an opportunity for connection. A trip to Jordan is not merely a vacation; it is an expedition through the annals of history, a discovery of dramatic natural beauty, and a chance to experience the heart of true Middle Eastern hospitality.
Daily Theme: Your Jordanian odyssey begins in Amman, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), you’ll be transferred to your hotel in this city of contrasts, where modern buildings stand beside ancient ruins. After settling in, your exploration starts at the Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal’a), the historical heart of the city. Perched on the highest hill, it offers breathtaking panoramic views and a walk through layers of history, from the Roman Temple of Hercules to the Umayyad Palace. From this vantage point, you’ll look down upon the magnificent 6,000-seat Roman Theatre, your next stop. Carved into the hillside in the 2nd century AD, this remarkably well-preserved structure is still used for cultural events today. The afternoon is for diving into the vibrant energy of Downtown Amman. Lose yourself in the bustling souks, a sensory overload of spices, perfumes, and artisan crafts. This first day is a perfect introduction to Jordan, blending millennia of history with the lively rhythm of modern urban life, setting the stage for the epic journey ahead.
For a seamless first day in Amman, consider purchasing the Jordan Pass online before you arrive. This fantastic pass includes the visa fee for entering Jordan (if you stay a minimum of three nights) and grants you free entry to over 40 attractions across the country, including the Amman Citadel, Roman Theatre, Jerash, Petra, and Wadi Rum. It can save you a significant amount of money and time. When exploring Downtown Amman, be prepared for a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. While a taxi is good for getting there, the best way to see the souks is on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot. Don’t be shy about haggling politely in the souks; it’s part of the culture and expected. For transportation, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are widely available, reliable, and generally more affordable than hailing a taxi on the street. It’s also wise to have small denominations of the local currency, the Jordanian Dinar (JOD), for small purchases, snacks, and tips. A tip of 1-2 JOD for good service is appreciated. This practical approach will help you navigate Amman with confidence.
Dressing for Amman requires a balance of comfort for sightseeing and respect for the local culture. Jordan is a conservative country, so modest dress is recommended for both men and women. For women, this means covering shoulders and knees. Loose-fitting trousers or a long skirt paired with a t-shirt or a three-quarter sleeve top is an excellent choice. It’s always a good idea to carry a light scarf, which is versatile for added sun protection, warmth in the evening, or for covering your head if you decide to visit a mosque. For men, t-shirts are acceptable, but long trousers are more appropriate than shorts for exploring the city. The most crucial item is a pair of comfortable walking shoes. Amman is a city of hills, and you’ll be on your feet exploring ancient sites with uneven surfaces. In the evenings, especially outside of summer, the temperature can drop, so having a light jacket or cardigan is essential. Sunglasses and a hat are also must-haves for protection against the strong Jordanian sun. Adhering to these dress guidelines shows respect and will make you feel more comfortable as you explore.
Amman is a food lover’s paradise, offering a taste of authentic Jordanian and Middle Eastern cuisine. For a truly iconic experience, you must visit Hashem Restaurant in Downtown Amman. This no-frills, bustling institution has been serving some of the city’s best falafel, hummus, and ful medames for decades. It’s an essential and delicious Amman experience. Just around the corner, don’t miss Habibah Sweets for a slice of their famous knafeh, a warm, cheese-filled pastry soaked in sweet syrup—it’s divine. For a more formal dinner, explore the restaurants on Rainbow Street or in the Weibdeh neighborhood, which offer a range of options from traditional Jordanian food in beautifully restored villas to modern international cuisine. Be sure to try Mansaf, Jordan’s national dish, which consists of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur. A fantastic place to try it is Sufra Restaurant on Rainbow Street, which is renowned for its traditional Jordanian dishes. Trying these local specialties is a key part of any visit to Amman and a delicious introduction to the country’s rich culinary heritage.
Getting around Amman on your first day is best achieved with a mix of walking and taxis. From Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), the most straightforward options are the official airport taxi, which has a fixed rate kiosk in the arrivals hall, or the Sariyah airport express bus, which is a very affordable option that drops you at the North Bus Station. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are also permitted for airport pickups. Once you are in the city, the Downtown area (Al-Balad) is best explored on foot. The Roman Theatre, souks, and many famous eateries are all within a short walking distance of each other. To get from Downtown to the Amman Citadel on Jabal al-Qal’a, you can take a short, inexpensive taxi ride to avoid the steep uphill walk. The same applies when traveling between your hotel and the various points of interest. While Amman does have a public bus system, it can be difficult for tourists to navigate without knowledge of the routes. For convenience, comfort, and safety, taxis and ride-sharing services are the recommended mode of transport for visitors.
| Item | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Mid-range Hotel) | $100 | $100 | $180 | $180 | $250 |
| Airport Taxi & City Taxis | $45 | $45 | $50 | $55 | $60 |
| Citadel & Roman Theatre Entrance (with Jordan Pass) | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Lunch (e.g., Hashem) | $10 | $20 | $30 | $40 | $50 |
| Dinner | $30 | $60 | $90 | $120 | $150 |
| Daily Total | $185 | $225 | $350 | $395 | $510 |
Daily Theme: Today is a day of dramatic contrasts, taking you from one of the grandest Roman provincial cities to the lowest point on Earth. The morning starts with a journey north of Amman to the ancient city of Jerash. Often called the “Pompeii of the East,” its ruins are among the best-preserved in the world. Walk through Hadrian’s Arch, stroll down the colonnaded street, and imagine the chariot races in the Hippodrome. The scale and grandeur of its temples, theatres, and plazas are simply astonishing and transport you back to the height of the Roman Empire. After immersing yourself in history, you’ll travel to a place of unique natural wonder: the Dead Sea. This salt lake, at over 400 meters below sea level, has water so dense with salt and minerals that you can float effortlessly on its surface. The experience of bobbing like a cork in the turquoise water is surreal and unforgettable. Cover yourself in the famous black, mineral-rich mud from the seabed for a natural spa treatment that will leave your skin feeling incredibly smooth. This day offers a perfect blend of world-class historical exploration and a once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomenon.
To make the most of your day trip to Jerash and the Dead Sea, it’s best to hire a private driver for the day from Amman. This is the most convenient and efficient way to cover both locations, allowing you to move at your own pace. Public transport is possible but complicated and time-consuming. At Jerash, allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the vast site. Hiring a local guide at the entrance can greatly enhance your understanding of the ruins. When heading to the Dead Sea, don’t shave for a day or two before your visit, as the high salt content will sting any nicks or cuts. Do not splash around or get the water in your eyes—it is intensely painful. Wear an old swimsuit as the mineral-rich mud can sometimes stain fabric. Flip-flops or water shoes are essential for walking on the rocky, salt-encrusted shore. Most importantly, don’t stay in the water for more than 15-20 minutes at a time, and be sure to rinse off with fresh water immediately after exiting. Access to the sea is best through a resort or beach club, which provides these essential freshwater showers and other facilities.
Dressing for this two-part day requires some planning. For exploring the expansive ruins of Jerash, prioritize comfort and sun protection. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to respect local customs and shield you from the sun. A long linen shirt or a loose t-shirt with light trousers or a long skirt is ideal. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are absolutely essential, as you will be walking for several hours on uneven stone surfaces with very little shade. For the Dead Sea portion of the day, you will need your swimsuit. It’s a good idea to wear it under your clothes or have it ready to change into. Bring a towel and a change of clothes for after your float. Water shoes or flip-flops are crucial for walking on the salty and sometimes sharp shoreline. A cover-up, like a kaftan or a sarong, is useful for walking around the resort area. Remember to pack your sunscreen and apply it generously. This practical combination of modest sightseeing attire and beach essentials will ensure you are comfortable and prepared for both parts of this incredible day.
For lunch, there are several excellent options near Jerash that offer authentic Jordanian food. The Lebanese House is a very popular choice among both locals and tourists, offering a large selection of delicious mezze, grilled meats, and traditional dishes in a pleasant garden setting. After exploring the ruins, it’s a great place to relax and refuel. Alternatively, many drivers have a favorite local spot they can recommend. When you get to the Dead Sea, most of the dining options are located within the large resorts that line the shore. These resorts typically have multiple restaurants, ranging from casual poolside cafes to more formal dining rooms. You can purchase a day pass at most resorts which often includes lunch in the form of a large international buffet, providing a wide variety of choices. This is the most convenient option as there are very few standalone restaurants along the Dead Sea highway. Enjoying a leisurely lunch with a view of the serene, hazy sea is a fantastic way to break up your afternoon of floating and relaxation. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, as the climate at the Dead Sea is very dry.
The most efficient and popular way to visit both Jerash and the Dead Sea in one day is by hiring a private car and driver for the day from Amman. This gives you complete flexibility over your schedule, allowing you to decide how long you want to spend at each location. You can arrange this through your hotel or a reputable local tour agency. For solo travelers or those on a tighter budget, the JETT bus company offers tourist-specific routes. They have a daily bus from Amman to Jerash and back. However, combining this with a trip to the Dead Sea via public transport on the same day is not practical. Another option is to join a group day tour from Amman. Many tour operators offer a combined Jerash and Dead Sea itinerary, which can be a cost-effective and social way to see the sights without the hassle of navigating transport. These tours typically include round-trip transport from Amman and entrance fees to a Dead Sea beach or resort. For this itinerary, a private driver offers the best balance of convenience, comfort, and control over your day’s adventure.
| Item | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Return to Amman) | $100 | $100 | $180 | $180 | $250 |
| Private Driver for the Day | $100 | $100 | $120 | $120 | $140 |
| Jerash Entrance (with Jordan Pass) | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Dead Sea Beach/Resort Day Pass | $30 | $60 | $90 | $120 | $150 |
| Lunch | $20 | $40 | $60 | $80 | $100 |
| Daily Total | $250 | $300 | $450 | $500 | $640 |
Daily Theme: Today is an epic road trip through the historical and spiritual heartland of Jordan. You’ll travel south from Amman along the legendary King’s Highway, one of the oldest continuously used communication routes in the world. This ancient road, mentioned in the Bible, winds through a variety of stunning landscapes and past significant historical sites. Your first stop is Madaba, the “City of Mosaics,” famous for the incredible 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land on the floor of St. George’s Church. Next, you’ll ascend Mount Nebo, the revered site where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land before he died. The view from the summit across the Jordan Valley is truly breathtaking. Continuing south, the journey takes you through the dramatic canyon of Wadi Mujib before arriving at the imposing Kerak Castle. This formidable Crusader fortress, with its dark passageways and vaulted chambers, offers a glimpse into the turbulent history of the region. Your day’s journey concludes as you arrive in the town of Wadi Musa, the modern gateway to your ultimate destination and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: the ancient city of Petra.
The journey along the King’s Highway is a destination in itself and should not be rushed. While the modern Desert Highway is faster, the King’s Highway offers far more rewarding scenery and historical sites. The best way to experience it is by hiring a private driver for the day, as public transport along this route is virtually non-existent for tourists. The drive from Amman to Wadi Musa with stops will take a full day, typically 8-10 hours, so an early start from Amman is crucial. Your Jordan Pass will cover the entrance fees for Kerak Castle. For Mount Nebo and the Madaba Mosaic Map, you will need to pay separate small entrance fees. It’s a good idea to have some Jordanian Dinars in cash for these fees, as well as for buying water or snacks along the way. Be sure to have your camera ready at all times, as the route provides countless photo opportunities, from panoramic valley views to interactions with local shepherds. This day is about the journey, so sit back, relax, and soak in the rich tapestry of history and landscape that unfolds before you.
For your road trip day along the King’s Highway, comfortable clothing is key, as you’ll be sitting in a car for extended periods but also getting out to explore various sites. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Modest attire is still recommended. For women, lightweight trousers or a long skirt paired with a t-shirt is perfect. Men will be comfortable in trousers and a t-shirt. Since you will be visiting religious sites like St. George’s Church in Madaba and Mount Nebo, it is especially important for women to have their shoulders covered and to carry a scarf for their head, although it’s not always strictly required. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the sprawling grounds of Kerak Castle and the sites in Madaba. The weather can vary by altitude, so having a sweater or light jacket handy in the car is a good idea. Sunglasses and a hat are indispensable for sun protection when you are outside. This practical and respectful attire will ensure you are comfortable throughout your long but incredibly rewarding day of travel through Jordan’s heartland.
There are several authentic and charming places to stop for lunch along the King’s Highway. Many drivers have arrangements with local restaurants that are accustomed to serving travelers. A popular and highly recommended stop is in Madaba, where you can enjoy a meal before or after seeing the mosaic map. Haret Jdoudna is a beautiful restaurant set in a restored historic house, offering a delicious range of traditional Jordanian mezze and main courses in a lovely courtyard setting. Alternatively, your driver might suggest a restaurant with a panoramic view overlooking the Wadi Mujib canyon, which can provide a simple but memorable dining experience. It’s generally best to rely on your driver’s recommendation, as they will know the best options for quality, cleanliness, and service along the route. For dinner, once you arrive in Wadi Musa (the town next to Petra), you’ll find a wide array of restaurants catering to tourists. Many hotels have their own excellent restaurants, or you can venture into town to try a local eatery. After a long day of travel, a hearty Jordanian meal is the perfect way to recharge for your big day in Petra.
The only practical way for a tourist to travel the King’s Highway and visit the various sites along it is by hiring a private car and driver. This is a very common and well-established service in Jordan. You can arrange a one-way transfer from your hotel in Amman to your hotel in Wadi Musa, with stops at Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Kerak Castle included in the price. This provides a comfortable, air-conditioned, and efficient way to see the sights without any logistical stress. There is no direct public bus service that follows this scenic route and allows for stops. While you could rent a car and self-drive, hiring a local driver is often preferred as they are experts at navigating the winding roads, know the best places to stop for photos and food, and can share insights into the culture and history along the way. This allows you to simply sit back and enjoy the incredible journey as it unfolds. Booking this service through a reputable tour company or your hotel is the best way to ensure a reliable and professional driver for this memorable day trip.
| Item | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (in Wadi Musa/Petra) | $90 | $90 | $150 | $150 | $220 |
| Private Driver (Amman to Petra via King’s Highway) | $130 | $130 | $150 | $170 | $190 |
| Madaba & Mt. Nebo Entrance Fees | $7 | $14 | $21 | $28 | $35 |
| Lunch on the road | $20 | $40 | $60 | $80 | $100 |
| Dinner in Wadi Musa | $25 | $50 | $75 | $100 | $125 |
| Daily Total | $272 | $324 | $456 | $528 | $670 |
Daily Theme: Today is the day you’ve been waiting for—a full day dedicated to exploring the legendary Lost City of Petra. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Nabataean capital is a vast and awe-inspiring archaeological site. Your journey begins with a walk through the Siq, a narrow, winding canyon with towering rock walls. The anticipation builds with every step until you reach the dramatic opening that reveals your first, breathtaking glimpse of Al-Khazneh, the Treasury. This iconic, intricately carved facade is just the beginning. You will spend the day discovering a city carved from rose-red rock, exploring royal tombs, a Roman-style theatre, colonnaded streets, and Byzantine churches. For those with energy, the ultimate pilgrimage is the challenging hike up more than 800 steps to the magnificent Ad-Deir, the Monastery. Perched high above the main city, its colossal facade and the panoramic views from the top are an incredible reward. A day in Petra is not just a visit to a ruin; it is an adventure through time, a testament to human ingenuity, and an experience that will be etched in your memory forever.
To conquer a day in Petra, an early start is absolutely crucial. The site opens at 6 a.m., and being at the gate then allows you to walk through the Siq and see the Treasury in the soft morning light with far fewer people. This makes for a more magical experience and better photos. Petra is enormous, and you will walk a lot—likely 15-20 kilometers (9-12 miles) if you see the main sites and hike to the Monastery. Wear your most comfortable, broken-in walking shoes or hiking boots. Sun protection is vital; there is very little shade. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Carry at least 1.5-2 liters of water per person; you can buy more inside, but it will be more expensive. Pack some snacks to keep your energy levels up. The Jordan Pass includes your one-day entrance to Petra. Pacing yourself is key. Don’t try to see everything. Focus on the main highlights: the Siq, Treasury, Street of Facades, and the hike to the Monastery if you have the stamina. This strategic approach will make your day enjoyable rather than exhausting.
Dressing for Petra is all about practical comfort for a long day of walking and hiking. Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that you can move in easily. Moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal. Modest dress is still respectful, so opt for long, loose trousers or hiking pants and a t-shirt. Shorts are generally acceptable here due to the touristy and athletic nature of the site, but longer pants offer better sun protection. The most critical piece of your outfit is your footwear. Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip are essential for the uneven, sandy, and rocky terrain, especially for the climb to the Monastery. Do not attempt to wear flip-flops or sandals. A sun hat with a wide brim is non-negotiable for protecting your face and neck. Sunglasses are also a must. It can be cool in the early morning in the shade of the Siq and hot in the midday sun, so wearing layers like a light long-sleeved shirt over a t-shirt can be a good strategy. A comfortable backpack is needed to carry your water, snacks, sunscreen, and camera, completing your practical explorer’s uniform.
Options for eating inside the vast Petra archaeological park are limited, but available. The largest restaurant is the Basin Restaurant, located at the start of the trail up to the Monastery. It’s operated by the Crowne Plaza hotel and offers a large buffet lunch. While convenient, it can be crowded and relatively expensive. There are also several smaller Bedouin-style tents and cafes scattered along the main path that sell drinks, snacks, and simple sandwiches. These can be great places to take a break in the shade. A smart and budget-friendly option is to pack your own lunch. You can buy supplies like bread, cheese, hummus, and fruit in the town of Wadi Musa the day before and enjoy a picnic with an incredible view. For dinner, back in Wadi Musa, you have a plethora of choices. Al-Wadi Restaurant is a popular spot with locals and tourists for authentic Jordanian food. Many visitors also enjoy the experience at Petra Kitchen, which is a cooking school where you can participate in preparing your own Jordanian dinner under the guidance of local chefs—a fun, interactive, and delicious way to end an unforgettable day.
Petra is a site that must be explored on foot. The main entrance is through the Visitor Centre in the town of Wadi Musa. From here, you will walk to the start of the Siq, the magnificent canyon that serves as the gateway to the ancient city. The walk through the Siq to the Treasury is about 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) and is flat and easy. From the Treasury, the main path through the city continues for several more kilometers. While the primary mode of transport is your own two feet, there are other options for assistance. You can hire an official electric golf cart to take you through the Siq to the Treasury and back, which is a great option for those with mobility issues. Inside the main site, you will see local Bedouins offering rides on camels, donkeys, and horses. While a camel ride in front of the Treasury can make for a great photo, be aware that the welfare of the animals can be a concern. The ride up the steep steps to the Monastery is often offered on donkeys; this is a strenuous journey for both rider and animal.
| Item | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (in Wadi Musa/Petra) | $90 | $90 | $150 | $150 | $220 |
| Petra Entrance (with Jordan Pass) | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Lunch inside Petra | $25 | $50 | $75 | $100 | $125 |
| Water & Snacks | $10 | $20 | $30 | $40 | $50 |
| Dinner in Wadi Musa | $25 | $50 | $75 | $100 | $125 |
| Daily Total | $150 | $210 | $330 | $390 | $520 |
Daily Theme: Your final day in Jordan is an exhilarating adventure into one of the world’s most spectacular desert landscapes: Wadi Rum. Known as the “Valley of the Moon,” this vast, silent wilderness of red-pink sands, towering sandstone mountains, and natural rock arches is truly otherworldly. After a morning drive from Petra, you’ll swap your car for a 4×4 pickup truck and embark on a thrilling jeep tour led by a local Bedouin guide. You’ll race across sand dunes, scramble up rock bridges for breathtaking views, and discover ancient Nabataean inscriptions hidden in sheltered canyons. The tour will take you to famous sites like Lawrence’s Spring and Khazali Canyon. Standing in the immense silence of the desert, surrounded by the dramatic, wind-sculpted rock formations, is a profoundly moving experience. After your desert adventure, you will enjoy a traditional Bedouin lunch before it’s time to say farewell to the Kingdom of Jordan. You’ll be transferred from the Wadi Rum Visitor Centre to Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) or King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) in Aqaba for your departure, filled with incredible memories of ancient cities and timeless deserts.
As this is a departure day, accommodation is not typically required. If an overnight stay were planned, these would be the recommendations in Wadi Rum:
To make the most of your Wadi Rum experience, it’s essential to book your jeep tour in advance with a reputable Bedouin camp or guide. There are many to choose from online, with excellent reviews. A 3-4 hour tour is usually sufficient to see the main highlights if you are short on time. Your entrance to the Wadi Rum protected area is covered by the Jordan Pass. You will meet your guide at the Wadi Rum Visitor Centre, where you will leave your private car or taxi and transfer to the 4×4. The sun in the desert is incredibly intense, so sun protection is paramount. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A scarf (keffiyeh) is also very useful for protecting your face from both the sun and blowing sand. Even in the desert, it’s respectful to dress modestly. The desert can get surprisingly cool, especially once the sun starts to go down, so having a jacket or fleece is a good idea. Finally, embrace the experience. Drink the sweet Bedouin tea offered to you, listen to the stories of your guide, and take a moment to appreciate the profound silence and beauty of this unique place.
For your desert adventure in Wadi Rum, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that protects you from the sun. Lightweight long trousers and a long-sleeved shirt are ideal, as they shield your skin from the intense sun and help you stay cooler than shorts and a t-shirt would. Light colors will help reflect the heat. Closed-toe shoes like sneakers or hiking boots are a must, as you will be walking on sand and climbing on rocks. Do not wear sandals, as the sand gets very hot and gets everywhere. A hat with a wide brim is absolutely essential for sun protection. Sunglasses are also non-negotiable to protect your eyes from the bright glare. One of the most useful accessories you can have is a keffiyeh, the traditional Jordanian scarf. Your Bedouin guide can show you how to wrap it to protect your face and neck from the sun and sand, which is incredibly effective and makes for a great souvenir. Even though it’s a desert, bring a fleece or jacket, as it can be windy on the back of the jeep and the temperature can drop quickly if your tour extends towards sunset.
Most, if not all, Wadi Rum jeep tours include a meal as part of the package. For a half-day tour, this will typically be a delicious lunch prepared by your Bedouin guide at a scenic, shaded spot in the middle of the desert. The meal is often simple but hearty, usually consisting of a variety of salads, hummus, flatbread, and a main dish like grilled chicken or a vegetable stew, all cooked over an open fire. A highlight of any tour is the chance to drink traditional Bedouin tea. This sweet, fragrant tea, often brewed with sage or other herbs, is a cornerstone of Bedouin hospitality and is a wonderfully refreshing drink in the desert heat. If you were to stay overnight, dinner is a special event. You would experience the “zarb,” a traditional Bedouin barbecue where lamb, chicken, and vegetables are cooked for hours in a sealed underground oven covered with sand. This method results in incredibly tender and flavorful meat. This communal meal, shared under the stars, is a truly authentic and unforgettable part of the Wadi Rum experience.
The journey to Wadi Rum from Petra takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car. The best way to get there is by arranging for your private driver (the same one who took you from Amman, or a new one arranged in Wadi Musa) to take you. They will drive you to the Wadi Rum Visitor Centre. This is the main gateway to the protected area. Here, you will show your Jordan Pass (or pay the entrance fee), and your pre-booked Bedouin guide will be waiting for you. You will leave your driver and their vehicle here and transfer into your guide’s 4×4 pickup truck for the desert tour. This is the standard procedure for all tours. After your jeep tour and lunch, your Bedouin guide will drive you back to the Visitor Centre. From there, you will meet a pre-arranged driver to take you on the final leg of your journey to the airport for your departure. The drive from Wadi Rum to Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) near Amman takes about 4 hours, while the drive to King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) in Aqaba is only about 1 hour.
| Item | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driver (Petra to Wadi Rum to Airport) | $140 | $140 | $160 | $180 | $200 |
| Wadi Rum Jeep Tour (4 hours incl. lunch) | $70 | $85 | $100 | $115 | $130 |
| Wadi Rum Entrance (with Jordan Pass) | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Snacks/Drinks | $5 | $10 | $15 | $20 | $25 |
| Daily Total | $215 | $235 | $275 | $315 | $355 |
| Item | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (4 Nights) | $380 | $380 | $660 | $660 | $940 |
| Tours & Activities (incl. Day Pass/Fees) | $107 | $159 | $211 | $263 | $315 |
| Transportation (Drivers & Taxis) | $415 | $415 | $480 | $525 | $590 |
| Food & Drinks | $110 | $220 | $330 | $440 | $550 |
| Total Estimated Cost (Excl. Flights & Jordan Pass) | $1012 | $1174 | $1681 | $1888 | $2395 |
Jordan’s unique natural landscapes offer a profound setting for wellness and yoga. The Dead Sea is the country’s primary wellness hub. The hyper-saline water provides effortless floating, which induces a state of deep relaxation, while the mineral-rich mud is used in therapeutic treatments at world-class spas. Many luxury resorts here offer comprehensive wellness programs that include yoga sessions overlooking the sea, meditation, and holistic spa therapies. For a different kind of spiritual wellness, the serene, silent desert of Wadi Rum provides an incredible backdrop for yoga and meditation retreats. Practicing under the vast desert sky, surrounded by ancient rock formations, is a powerful way to connect with nature and oneself. Some desert camps specialize in these retreats, combining yoga with Bedouin culture and stargazing.
Packing for Jordan requires preparing for diverse conditions. The key is modest, layered clothing. Pack lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and loose-fitting long trousers or skirts. This respects local customs and protects you from the sun. A warm fleece or jacket is essential, as Amman, Petra, and the desert can get cold in the evenings, even in summer. For a 5-day trip, comfortable, broken-in walking or hiking shoes are the most important item you will pack. Also bring a swimsuit for the Dead Sea, and a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. A reusable water bottle is a great idea to stay hydrated. A light scarf (or you can buy a keffiyeh there) is incredibly versatile for sun protection, warmth, or as a head covering for religious sites.
Jordan offers a wealth of unique souvenirs and handicrafts. In Amman’s souks and Madaba, you can find beautiful, handcrafted mosaics, a traditional art form of the region. Dead Sea products, including mineral-rich mud, salts, and skincare, are a popular and therapeutic purchase, available at the Dead Sea resorts or in shops in Amman. Hand-painted ceramics and pottery are also widely available. For a truly iconic souvenir, consider buying a red-and-white or black-and-white keffiyeh, the traditional Jordanian headdress. In Petra and Wadi Rum, you can buy beautiful silver jewelry made by local Bedouin artisans, as well as small bottles filled with colored sand creating intricate designs. When shopping in souks, polite bargaining is acceptable and expected.
Yes, Jordan is widely regarded as one of the safest and most stable countries in the Middle East. It has a well-established tourism industry and is very welcoming to foreigners. Standard travel precautions are advised, but tourists generally feel very safe.
Most nationalities, including citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and the EU, need a visa. You can get a visa on arrival at the airport. However, the best option is to purchase the Jordan Pass online before you travel, as it waives the visa fee and includes entry to most major sites.
The Jordan Pass is a sightseeing package that includes the tourist entry visa fee and free entry to over 40 attractions, including Petra, Jerash, and Wadi Rum. If you are staying more than 3 nights and visiting Petra, the pass almost always saves you money. It is highly recommended.
The currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and shops in cities. However, you will need cash for smaller shops, market stalls, and for tipping, so it’s best to have a mix of both.
Jordan is a conservative Muslim country. While it is tolerant, it’s respectful to dress modestly. Women should aim to cover their shoulders and knees. Men should avoid wearing very short shorts. In tourist sites like Petra and at Dead Sea resorts, the dress code is more relaxed.
The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather during these seasons is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Summer can be extremely hot, and winter can be surprisingly cold, with occasional snow in some areas.
Alcohol is available in Jordan, but it is not widely consumed by the local population. Larger hotels, tourist restaurants, and liquor stores in Christian areas of Amman sell alcohol. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public outside of these licensed venues.
For a multi-day itinerary covering the whole country, the best way to get around is by hiring a private car and driver. This is a very common, safe, and efficient way to travel. For travel between major cities, JETT buses are a comfortable and reliable option.
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is customary and greatly appreciated. In restaurants, a 10% tip is standard if a service charge isn’t already included. It’s also customary to tip your driver (around 15 JOD per day) and any local guides (around 20 JOD per day) for good service.
English is widely spoken in the tourism industry and among people in the cities. You will have no problem communicating at hotels, restaurants, and major tourist sites. However, learning a few basic Arabic words like “Shukran” (Thank you) will be warmly received.
Don't have an account? Sign Up
