Why Jordan Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
Based on my journeys and conversations with locals, Jordan is more than an archaeological treasure chest; it’s a living story inviting every traveler to experience culture, nature, and history all in one trip.
Having visited multiple sites over numerous seasons, I can personally vouch that Jordan’s hospitality makes every experience uniquely authentic, whether you’re exploring desert castles or floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea.
Top 10 Things to See and Do in Jordan
Petra – The Rose City
Visiting Petra is like stepping into a world carved in stone by ancient hands. The iconic Treasury and the Siq canyon walk took my breath away every single visit. Plan at least a full day here; allow time to explore the Royal Tombs and hike up to the Monastery. I recommend starting early morning to beat the crowds and the heat.
- Opening Hours: 6 AM – 6 PM (Closed on some public holidays)
- Entry Fee: Approx. 90 JOD (~$130) – multi-day tickets available
- Local Tips: Wear sturdy shoes; hire a local guide for rich historical context.
Float in the Dead Sea – Nature’s Spa
The buoyancy of the Dead Sea is genuinely otherworldly. When I first floated effortlessly on its salty water, I understood why people rave about this natural wonder. Besides floating, the mineral-rich mud is excellent for skin care. Resorts like Kempinski and Dead Sea Marriott offer fantastic day passes and spa services.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for milder temperatures
- Typical Cost: Day pass $30–$50 for beach and spa access
- Safety Note: Avoid swallowing water and keep eyes protected.
Wadi Rum Desert – A Timeless Landscape
Wadi Rum’s landscape feels like Mars on Earth. Jeep tours across sprawling sands and starry skies at Bedouin camps form the perfect adventure. I highly recommend an overnight stay with a Bedouin family for authentic insights and unforgettable sunrises.
- Tour Pricing: Jeep tours from 50 JOD (~$70) per person
- Getting There: 1-hour drive from Aqaba or 4 hours from Amman
- Pro Tip: Pack warm clothes for nights; solar chargers came handy for me.
Amman – The Vibrant Capital
Amman blends history with modern life beautifully. The Citadel offers panoramic city views, while Rainbow Street buzzes with cafes, street art, and nightlife. With affordable dining and boutique hotels, I found it a perfect base to start my Jordanian trip.
- Must-See Spots: Roman Theater, King Abdullah Mosque, Souk Jara Market
- Where to Stay: Downtown and Abdoun neighborhoods for convenient access
- Typical Costs: Budget meals from 3–6 JOD per dish, mid-range hotels around 40–70 JOD/night
Jerash Ruins – Roman History Alive
Jerash is one of the best preserved Roman cities outside Italy. Its grand arches and theaters tell stories of a thriving metropolis. Visiting during the Jerash Festival is magical, with music and dance enlivening the ancient streets.
- Entry Fee: About 10 JOD (~$14)
- How to Get There: Guided tours from Amman or self-drive (45 km north)
- Insider Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the quiet and lumière photography.
Madaba – The City of Mosaics
I loved wandering through Madaba’s streets, famous for the 6th-century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land inside St. George’s Church. The craftsmanship is extraordinary and offers deep insight into Byzantine artistry.
- Entry Fee: Church entry around 1 JOD
- Local Experience: Try traditional Jordanian coffee at local cafes
- Getting There: 30 km from Amman, perfect for a day trip
Dana Biosphere Reserve – Nature and Hiking
If you want to connect with nature, Dana Reserve’s hiking trails weave through rugged mountains with stunning views. The eco-lodge here balances sustainability and comfort. I highly recommend hiring a local guide to spot rare flora and fauna.
- Entrance Fee: Approx. 5 JOD
- Best Hikes: Dana Village to Feynan for varied landscapes
- Accommodation: Dana Guesthouse and Feynan Ecolodge
Mount Nebo – Biblical Landmarks
From Mount Nebo, I stood where Moses is believed to have seen the Promised Land. The views over the Jordan Valley towards the Dead Sea are incredible. The mosaics in the church here date back to the 4th century.
- Entry Fee: 2 JOD
- Location: 40 km from Madaba
- Tip: Visit early afternoon for best light and fewer crowds.
Aqaba – Red Sea Adventures
Aqaba offers spectacular snorkeling and diving experiences with vibrant coral reefs. The seaside promenade is lively, perfect for relaxing evenings. I found prices here quite reasonable compared to other Red Sea locations worldwide.
- Popular Activities: Dive tours, glass-bottom boat rides
- Costs: Snorkeling gear rental from 10 JOD, diving courses 50+ JOD
- Access: Aqaba has its own airport and is accessible by road
Umayyad Desert Castles – Ancient Fortresses
Located east of Amman, these castles reveal early Islamic art and architecture in dramatic desert settings. Qasr Amra’s frescoes, a UNESCO site, are a highlight. Exploring these castles gave me fascinating glimpses into early Islamic civilization’s luxury and defense.
- Main Sites: Qasr Amra, Qasr Kharana, Qasr Al-Mshatta
- Entry Fee: 2–3 JOD per castle
- Travel Tip: Rent a car for flexible exploration or join a desert castles tour.
Where to Stay in Jordan
Jordan offers accommodation for every budget. In Amman and Petra, I preferred boutique hotels for personalized service and convenient locations. Wadi Rum’s Bedouin camps brought a unique adventure element, and along the Dead Sea, resorts range from luxury to mid-tier. Booking in advance during peak season (March-May, Sept-Nov) can save you money.
Getting Around and Suggested Budgets
Taxis and ride-hailing apps work well in cities like Amman. For intercity travel, renting a car offers flexibility; roads are well-maintained and signposted. Budget travelers can use shared minibusses, though they require patience and local know-how.
Typical Daily Budget:
- Budget: $30–50/day (hostels, street food, public transport)
- Mid-range: $70–120/day (3-star hotels, guided tours, taxis)
- Luxury: $150+/day (resorts, private tours, fine dining)
Best Time to Visit and How to Get There
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Summers can be intensely hot, especially in desert areas.
Queen Alia International Airport near Amman is the main international gateway. Direct flights are available from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. From Amman, you can easily access major tourist sites via car or organized tours.
Safety and Emergency Contacts
Jordan is considered one of the safest countries in the region. Standard travel precautions apply: keep valuables secure and respect local customs.
Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 911
- Ambulance: 911
- Tourist Police: +962 6 550 9471
Register your presence with your country’s embassy if staying long-term. For medical emergencies, private hospitals in Amman such as King Hussein Medical Center and Al Khalidi Medical Center have good reputations.
Recommended Tours and Length of Stay
To fully appreciate Jordan’s diversity, I suggest a trip of 7 to 10 days. Organized tours often cover Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, Amman, and Jerash efficiently. Custom tours focusing on archaeology, adventure, or spiritual heritage are widely available.
For independent travelers, taking time in each major locale enhances the experience and relaxation.
Money-Saving Tips to Stretch Your Jordanian Experience
- Book hotels and tours during the shoulder seasons to secure lower rates.
- Use local eateries and street food stalls offering delicious mansaf or falafel for authentic flavors at great prices.
- Consider Jordan Pass, which pre-pays entry to many sites, saving time and money.
- Travel by shared taxi minibuses for intercity transport when possible.
- Bring reusable water bottles; tap water is not drinkable, but filtered water is widely available cheaply.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Jordan
Is Jordan safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Jordan is one of the safest countries in the Middle East. Solo travelers, especially women, report positive and respectful experiences. Staying aware of cultural norms helps ensure a safe trip.
How many days should I plan for visiting Petra?
A full day is ideal to explore Petra’s major sites comfortably, but spending two days allows time for hiking trails like the High Place of Sacrifice and less crowded areas.
What currency should I carry in Jordan?
The Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted in many hotels and large restaurants, but small shops and markets prefer cash. ATMs are widely available in cities.
What clothes are appropriate to wear in Jordan?
Modest clothing is recommended. Lightweight long sleeves and pants help respect local customs and protect from sun. Women can wear headscarves in religious sites if desired.
How can I get around between major sites?
Renting a car is convenient and affordable for flexibility. There are also taxis, shared minibuses, and tour buses that connect main sites, but check schedules carefully in advance.
