Jordan

Plan your trip to Jordan

Jordan is a Middle Eastern gem where ancient history meets dramatic desert landscapes, from the rose-red cliffs of Petra to the otherworldly expanse of Wadi Rum. With Nabatean ruins, Roman cities, and the lowest point on Earth at the Dead Sea, it packs extraordinary variety into a compact country. Most visitors can experience the highlights in 5–7 days without feeling rushed.

Getting there & around

Queen Alia International Airport near Amman is the main entry point, with direct flights from Europe and the Middle East. Rental cars offer the most flexibility for exploring, though minibuses and tours connect major sites; a private driver is recommended for comfort. Amman is well-connected by road to all regions, and distances are manageable—Petra is about 3 hours south, Wadi Rum another 2 hours beyond that.

How long to stay

Plan for 5–7 days to see Petra, Wadi Rum, Amman, and the Dead Sea without feeling hurried. Add 2–3 days if you want to include Jerash, Karak castle, or a longer Wadi Rum experience.

When to go

October to November and February to March offer perfect temperatures (70–80°F); December–January is cool but quieter. Avoid June–August (extreme heat, 110°F+) and April–May (occasional sandstorms in the desert).

Suggested itinerary

1. Amman: Roman Theatres and City Views — Arrive at Queen Alia Airport and transfer to Amman. Explore the hilltop Citadel, Roman Theatre, and Amman Archaeological Museum to get oriented; end the day with sunset from Jabal al-Qala'a or a walk through the vibrant downtown.
2. Jerash and Ajloun Castle Day Trip — Drive north to Jerash to wander one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy, with colonnaded streets and amphitheatres. Stop at nearby Ajloun Castle on the return for medieval views and a taste of Levantine fortress architecture.
3. Dead Sea: Float and Relax — Head west to the Dead Sea for a swim in the hyper-saline waters and mud treatment at a resort beach. Visit nearby Madaba to see the intricate Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land before returning to Amman.
4. Petra: The Rose City — Fly or drive south to Wadi Musa (3–4 hours by car). Spend the full day hiking through Petra's stunning canyons, starting with the iconic Treasury facade and moving deeper into the Nabatean city's tombs, monasteries, and high-altitude temples.
5. Wadi Rum: Desert Landscape and Bedouin Culture — Drive to Wadi Rum and embark on a half-day or full-day jeep tour through dramatic red sand cliffs and rock formations; camp overnight in a Bedouin camp or return to Wadi Musa. Watch the desert light shift from gold to deep red at sunset.
6. Aqaba: Red Sea Coast — Travel to Aqaba (1.5 hours from Wadi Rum) for beach time, snorkeling, or a final dose of desert views. Browse the small fort and seafront promenade, or simply relax after days of sightseeing.
7. Return to Amman or Depart — Drive or fly back to Amman for last-minute shopping in Rainbow Street or the souks, then head to the airport for your departure.

Frequently asked questions

Is Petra worth visiting?

Yes—Petra is one of the world's most iconic archaeological sites and genuinely breathtaking in person. The rose-red cliffs, scale of the Nabatean city carved into stone, and network of hiking trails make it essential for any first visit to Jordan.

How many days do you need in Petra?

One full day is the minimum to see the main highlights (Treasury, Monastery, tombs); two days allows deeper exploration of outlying trails and a sunrise hike. Most visitors find one day sufficient if time is limited.

Is it safe to travel to Jordan?

Yes, Jordan is considered one of the safer destinations in the Middle East, with stable security in tourist areas like Amman, Petra, and Wadi Rum. Standard travel precautions apply; avoid the Syrian and Iraqi borders, and check current government travel advisories before booking.

Can you swim in the Dead Sea?

Yes, but it's more of a float than a swim—the extreme salt content (34% salinity) makes you extremely buoyant and unable to sink. Most visitors spend 15–30 minutes in the water and enjoy the therapeutic mud, then rinse off in fresh water at a resort beach.

Do you need a visa for Jordan?

Most Western passport holders (US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia) can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Queen Alia Airport for around 40 JOD (~$56), valid for 30 days. Some nationalities can also get a visa on arrival at land borders; check with your nearest Jordanian embassy beforehand.