Jordan

What are the most recommended things to do in Jordan?

  • Explore the ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Float in the Dead Sea and experience its therapeutic waters.
  • Visit Wadi Rum desert for jeep tours, camel rides, and stargazing.
  • Discover Roman ruins in Jerash and Amman Citadel.
  • Hike in Dana Biosphere Reserve or Ajloun Forest Reserve for nature and wildlife.
  • Relax in Aqaba and enjoy Red Sea snorkeling and diving.
  • Explore local markets and try traditional Jordanian cuisine.

Introducing Jordan

Jordan, short for the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is an ancient country with a long history and civilization, located on the western edge of Asia.

This country, nestled deep in the desert, is filled with cultural heritage and a uniquely charming local culture. Amman, Jerash, Petra, Ajloun, Badaba, and other cities in Jordan each boast their own unique ancient cultural charm. Tourism is a pillar of Jordan's economy, with attractions like Petra, the Dead Sea, and the Wadi Rum Desert becoming top destinations for adventure and leisure travelers from around the world.

Climate and best time to travel

Jordan has a subtropical Mediterranean climate. Most of the country is covered by desert, and rivers are scarce. However, the mild climate makes it suitable for tourism year-round, though you should be mindful of temperature fluctuations. October to May is the rainiest season, marking the peak tourist season, while June to September is relatively dry.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Petra

With over 2,000 years of history, it is a World Cultural Heritage site and known as the "Rose City." On July 8, 2007, the ancient city was selected as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and is Jordan's most famous attraction. You must present your passport when purchasing tickets, and your name will be printed on the ticket. You will need to present your passport again for verification upon entry the next day.

Petra Nights takes place every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at 8:30 pm.

Dead Sea

Located between Israel, Jordan and Palestine, it is 86 kilometers long from north to south and 5 to 16 kilometers wide from east to west. Its deepest point is 415 meters and its area is 1,049 square kilometers.

From afar, the Dead Sea resembles a double-tailed fish, sometimes hidden and sometimes exposed, swimming at the foot of the mountains. The Dead Sea is calm, without ebb and flow. In the sunlight, its surface gleams like an ancient bronze mirror. Near the shore, no birds are reflected in their reflections, no seagulls fly, no birds play. In the water, no plants float, no fish swim, not even small fish or shrimp can be seen. Experts say the water is devoid of microorganisms. Perhaps for these reasons, it is named the Dead Sea.

Khazneh

The Al Khazneh Temple is a 2,000-year-old temple in the ancient city of Petra. Local Bedouins believe that there is a treasure hidden at the top, so the temple is commonly known as the "Treasure House."

This is the filming location for the movies "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" and "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen." The ancient city is quite large, and horseback, camel, and carriage rides are available in the open space in front of the temple. Prices are quite high, so bargaining is recommended.


Recommended travel time: 5-10 days


Most Popular FAQs for Jordan

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Jordan is a country in the Middle East with rich history, including Nabatean, Roman, and Islamic civilizations. Petra and Jerash are key historical sites. Jordan also plays a significant role culturally and politically in the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Jordan is located in Western Asia, bordering Israel, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Syria. Main entry is via Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. Local travel includes buses, taxis, rental cars, and walking in city centers. Tours to remote areas like Wadi Rum usually require guided transport.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Major sites like Petra: 6 AM–6 PM (hours may vary seasonally).
  • Best times to visit: March–May and September–November for mild weather.
  • Summer months (June–August) are very hot; winter can be cool, especially in desert regions.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Petra: approx. 90–100 JD (1-day ticket), 3-day ticket around 130 JD. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online.
  • Dead Sea resorts may charge entry fees ranging from 20–50 JD.
  • Wadi Rum tours vary; guided jeep tours cost around 40–100 JD per person.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is recommended for Petra, Wadi Rum tours, and popular Dead Sea resorts, ideally 1–2 weeks ahead, especially during peak tourist season (spring and autumn).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

7–10 days are recommended to cover Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, Amman, Jerash, and Aqaba comfortably.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Petra – Treasury, Monastery, Siq, Royal Tombs
  • Wadi Rum – desert landscapes and rock formations
  • Dead Sea – floating experience and spa resorts
  • Jerash – Roman ruins including colonnaded streets and amphitheater
  • Amman Citadel – historical ruins and museums
  • Aqaba – Red Sea beaches and coral reefs

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are widely available in English, Arabic, French, and German for major attractions like Petra and Wadi Rum. Audio guides are available at Petra and some museums.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Petra – Treasury viewpoint, Monastery viewpoint
  • Wadi Rum – Sunset viewpoint and desert dunes
  • Dead Sea – shoreline during sunrise or sunset
  • Jerash – Colonnaded street and amphitheater
  • Amman Citadel – panoramic city views

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Amman (1–2 days) → Jerash (day trip) → Dead Sea (1 day) → Petra (2 days) → Wadi Rum (1–2 days) → Aqaba (1–2 days).

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Petra by Night offers candlelight tours along the Siq to the Treasury. Some Dead Sea resorts have night spa experiences, and Wadi Rum offers overnight camping under the stars.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Petra and Dead Sea are busiest during spring and autumn weekends. Visit weekdays and early mornings for fewer crowds. Wadi Rum is less crowded year-round, except for organized tour groups.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • Petra and Jerash have restrooms, cafes, and souvenir shops.
  • Dead Sea resorts offer full amenities including restaurants and changing rooms.
  • Wadi Rum has visitor centers and camp facilities with basic amenities.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Amman and Dead Sea resorts are accessible. Petra and Wadi Rum involve significant walking or climbing, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors; assistance and horse rides are available at Petra.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Jordanian Dinar (JD) is used. Credit/debit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and attractions, but cash is recommended for small shops, markets, and rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Amman: Hashem Restaurant, Sufra, Wild Jordan
  • Petra: Basin Restaurant, Al-Wadi Restaurant
  • Dead Sea: Mövenpick Resort, Kempinski restaurants
  • Aqaba: Fish Market, Ali Baba Restaurant

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are widely available in hotels, restaurants, and local eateries across Jordan.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Petra: Mövenpick, Petra Guest House, Petra Moon Hotel
  • Wadi Rum: Desert camps, luxury tented lodges
  • Dead Sea: Kempinski, Crowne Plaza, Marriott resorts
  • Amman: Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt, boutique hotels

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Madaba – mosaics and St. George Church (near Dead Sea)
  • Mount Nebo – panoramic views over the Jordan Valley
  • Ajloun Castle – medieval fortress near Amman
  • Red Sea snorkeling and diving in Aqaba

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Handmade mosaics, pottery, and jewelry
  • Dead Sea skincare products and salts
  • Traditional rugs, textiles, and spices
  • Bedouin crafts from Wadi Rum

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Domestic buses and taxis for short trips
  • Rental cars for flexible travel between sites
  • International flights from Amman or Aqaba airports
  • Organized tours and shuttle services between major attractions