Jordan

Things to Do in Jordan

Walk through ancient stone empires and sleep beneath desert stars.

  • CapitalAmman
  • CurrencyJordanian Dinar (JOD)
  • LanguageArabic
  • Time zoneGMT+3
  • Emergency911

Why visit Jordan?

Jordan acts as a serene, culturally rich sanctuary in the heart of the Middle East, offering travellers an incredibly accessible entry point to the region's deep history. From the chaotic, white-stone slopes of Amman to the silence of the southern deserts, this compact kingdom packs millennia of human history into an easily navigable route. It is a destination where you can stand in Roman plazas in the morning and float in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea before sunset.

The country's true draw lies in its stark geographical transitions. Moving south along the ancient King's Highway reveals rugged canyons, Crusader fortresses, and the rose-red sandstone facade of Petra. Beyond the Nabataean ruins lies Wadi Rum, a vast wilderness of monolithic rock formations and copper-coloured sands where Bedouin hospitality remains the cornerstone of the experience. It is a place that rewards slow travel, early mornings, and a deep appreciation for dry desert landscapes.

Navigating Jordan requires balancing high-value experiences with surprisingly steep entry costs—most notably the Jordan Pass, which is an essential purchase for any traveller wanting to waive visa fees and access key archaeological sites. While tourist infrastructure is highly developed along the main north-south corridor, understanding local transport nuances, dry desert climates, and cultural etiquette will significantly elevate your journey across this remarkable Hashemite kingdom.

Petra Archaeological Park

Wadi Rum Protected Area

The Dead Sea Basin

The Roman Ruins of Jerash

Amman Citadel & Downtown

Dana Biosphere Reserve

Popular regions

Amman & The North

Amman & The North

The Rift Valley & Dead Sea

The Rift Valley & Dead Sea

The King's Highway & Central Highlands

The King's Highway & Central Highlands

The Desert South

The Desert South

When to visit Jordan

Based on average conditions in Jordan.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Temperature12°13°16°22°27°31°32°32°30°27°20°14°
Rain11d10d8d4d1d0d0d0d0d2d6d9d
CrowdsLowLowMedHighHighMedLowLowMedHighHighLow
  • Cold
  • Comfortable / dry / low crowds
  • Cool–hot / typical / moderate
  • Very hot / wetter / high crowds

Plan your trip to Jordan

The Classic Triangle

7 to 10 Days

First-Timer Route

Amman - Jerash - Dead Sea - Petra - Wadi Rum

Best Travel Season

Spring & Autumn

Essential Packing

Hiking gear & layers

Getting around Jordan

Car Rental

JETT Buses

Private Drivers

Local Minibuses

Costs, food & practical info

Costs

  • Budget

    30-50 JOD per day

  • Mid-range

    80-150 JOD per day

  • Luxury

    200+ JOD per day

Food & drinks

  • Mansaf (National Dish)10 - 15 JOD
  • Falafel and Hummus Meal2 - 4 JOD
  • Kanafeh (Pastry & Sweet Cheese)0.70 - 1.50 JOD
  • Bedouin Zarb (Underground Barbecue)12 - 20 JOD
  • Mint Tea or Arabic Coffee1 - 2 JOD

Practical

  • The Jordan Pass

  • Dress Code & Cultural Etiquette

  • Water Safety

  • Tipping Culture

  • Cash is King

Insight in one click

Frequently asked questions about visiting Jordan

How many days do I need in Jordan? +

A 7 to 10-day trip is ideal. This gives you two days in Amman and Jerash, a day at the Dead Sea, two full days exploring the vast site of Petra, and a night sleeping in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum.

Is Jordan safe for solo and female travellers? +

Yes, Jordan is widely considered one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the Middle East. Standard travel precautions apply: dress modestly to respect local customs, avoid walking alone at night in unlit areas, and use registered transport.

When is the best time of year to visit Jordan? +

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the most comfortable temperatures for walking through Petra and exploring the desert. Winter can be surprisingly cold with snow in the highlands, while summer temperatures routinely exceed 40°C in the valleys.

What is the Jordan Pass and is it worth it? +

Yes, it is highly recommended. If you stay in Jordan for at least three consecutive nights, buying the Jordan Pass online before arrival waives your entry visa fee (40 JOD) and includes admission to Petra, Jerash, Wadi Rum, and dozens of other sites.

How do I get around Jordan? +

Renting a car is the most flexible and convenient option for independent travellers. If you prefer not to drive, the reliable JETT bus service connects major tourist hubs daily, or you can hire a private driver for your entire trip.

Can I drink the tap water in Jordan? +

No, tap water in Jordan is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water, or better yet, bring a reusable bottle with a built-in purifier to reduce plastic waste during your journey.

What should I wear while travelling in Jordan? +

Both men and women should dress modestly. Keep shoulders and knees covered. Loose, breathable linen or lightweight cotton clothing is ideal for the heat. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are absolutely essential for Petra and Wadi Rum.