A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Jordan: Amman, Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea
Jordan is a kingdom steeped in history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From the bustling capital of Amman to the ancient ruins of Jerash, the rose-red city of Petra, the otherworldly desert of Wadi Rum, and the buoyant Dead Sea, a journey through this country offers an unforgettable adventure. This guide provides a detailed itinerary and essential information for travelers exploring the classic route: Amman – Jerash – Amman – Petra – Little Petra – Wadi Rum – Dead Sea – Madaba – Mount Nebo – Amman.
Introduction to Jordan
Jordan, officially the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is a safe and welcoming destination in the heart of the Middle East. Known for its profound historical significance and the legendary hospitality of its people, it offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. The country’s compact size makes it possible to explore its key highlights within a week to ten days.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) offer pleasant temperatures ideal for sightseeing. Winters can be cold, especially in the desert, while summers are extremely hot.
Visa: Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) or online via the Jordan Pass website.
The Jordan Pass: Highly recommended for tourists. It waives the visa fee if you stay at least three consecutive nights and includes entry to over 40 attractions, including Petra, Jerash, Wadi Rum, and more.
Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is essential in rural areas and for small vendors.
Language: Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Culture & Dress: Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country with a conservative culture. Modest dress is recommended, especially when visiting religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
Part 1: Amman (Days 1 & 2)
The journey begins in Amman, Jordan’s vibrant and hilly capital. A city of contrasts, it seamlessly blends ancient history with a modern, cosmopolitan vibe.
Attractions in Amman
The Citadel (Jabal al-Qal’a): Perched on one of Amman’s seven hills, this historical site offers panoramic views of the city. Key structures include the Temple of Hercules, a Byzantine church, and the impressive Umayyad Palace complex.
Roman Theatre: A beautifully preserved 2nd-century Roman theatre carved into the hillside, located in the heart of downtown Amman. It can seat 6,000 people and is still used for cultural events.
Downtown (Al-Balad): The bustling heart of old Amman. Wander through the souks (markets), smell the spices, and experience daily Jordanian life. Don’t miss the Gold Souk and the fresh produce market.
Rainbow Street: A trendy street in Jabal Amman known for its cafes, art galleries, souvenir shops, and restaurants. It’s a great place to enjoy an evening stroll and dinner.
The Royal Automobile Museum: Showcases King Hussein’s impressive collection of cars and motorcycles, offering a unique perspective on Jordan’s modern history.
Food & Drink in Amman
Amman is a food lover’s paradise. Be sure to try:
Falafel & Hummus: Head to a local eatery like Abu Jbara or Hashem Restaurant (a downtown institution) for the best.
Mansaf: The national dish of Jordan—lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice over a large platter. It’s a social and ceremonial dish.
Kanafeh: A delicious dessert made of shredded pastry, sweet cheese, and syrup. Habibah Sweets is famous for it.
Street Food: Don’t miss shawarma (spit-roasted meat in pita bread) and fresh juices from downtown vendors.
Accommodation Tips
Amman offers a wide range of accommodations. For a first visit, areas like Jabal Amman (Rainbow Street) and Jabal al-Weibdeh are charming and central. Luxury seekers will find international chains in the Abdali and Shmeisani districts.
Transportation
From Queen Alia International Airport, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are available for the 30-45 minute drive to the city center. Within Amman, taxis and ride-hailing apps are the most convenient way to get around due to the city’s hilly terrain.
Part 2: Day Trip to Jerash (Day 3)
A day trip north from Amman takes you to one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the world.
Attractions in Jerash
Hadrian’s Arch: Built in 129 AD to honor Emperor Hadrian’s visit.
Hippodrome: A restored chariot-racing stadium that could seat 15,000 spectators.
Oval Plaza: A unique, colonnaded oval square that is incredibly photogenic.
The Colonnaded Street (Cardo Maximus): The main street of ancient Jerash, still lined with original columns.
Temple of Artemis: Dedicated to the patron goddess of the city, with several towering columns still standing.
Theatres: The South Theatre is exceptionally well-preserved and has remarkable acoustics.
Getting There & Back
Jerash is about a 50-minute drive north of Amman. Options include hiring a private taxi for the day (which allows flexibility), taking a public bus from the North Bus Station, or joining an organized tour.
Part 3: Amman to Petra (Day 4)
The journey south to Petra is an adventure in itself. The King’s Highway is a scenic route with stunning views of canyons and valleys.
Transportation to Petra
The drive from Amman to Petra (Wadi Musa) takes approximately 3 hours via the Desert Highway or 4-5 hours via the more scenic King’s Highway. JETT buses run a daily service from Amman to Wadi Musa. Renting a car offers the most freedom.
Accommodation in Petra (Wadi Musa)
The town of Wadi Musa serves as the gateway to Petra. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious options like the Movenpick Resort Petra, located right at the entrance to the archaeological site.
Part 4: Exploring Petra & Little Petra (Days 4 & 5)
The Nabatean kingdom’s capital, Petra, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The Petra Archaeological Park
The Siq: The main entrance is a breathtaking 1.2-kilometer-long narrow gorge with towering walls.
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): The iconic facade that dramatically appears at the end of the Siq. It is most spectacular in the early morning light.
The Street of Facades: A row of Nabatean tombs carved into the cliff face.
The Royal Tombs: Including the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, and Corinthian Tomb.
The Monastery (Ad-Deir): A massive facade even larger than the Treasury, reached by climbing 800 steps. The effort is rewarded with incredible views.
High Place of Sacrifice: Another demanding but rewarding hike leading to an altar with panoramic views over Petra.
Tip: Purchase at least a two-day pass for Petra via the Jordan Pass to fully explore the vast site. Start early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
Located just north of Petra, Little Petra is a smaller but equally fascinating site. It served as a suburban quarter and caravan station. Its narrow canyon is adorned with well-preserved tombs, triclinia (dining halls), and ancient water channels. It’s less crowded and offers a more intimate experience.
Food & Cultural Experience
In Wadi Musa, try traditional Jordanian meals at local restaurants. For a unique experience, consider “Petra by Night,” a magical event where the Siq and Treasury are lit by thousands of candles (held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays).
Part 5: Wadi Rum Desert (Day 6)
A two-hour drive south from Petra leads to the extraordinary desert landscape of Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon.
The Wadi Rum Experience
Wadi Rum is best explored on a 4×4 jeep tour led by local Bedouin guides. The tour takes you through dramatic canyons, past ancient rock inscriptions, and to iconic landmarks like:
Lawrence’s Spring
The Seven Pillars of Wisdom (a famous rock formation)
Khazali Canyon (with inscriptions)
The Red Sand Dunes
Burdah Rock Bridge and Um Fruth Rock Bridge
Accommodation: Bedouin Camps
The quintessential Wadi Rum experience is spending a night in a Bedouin desert camp. Options range from basic traditional camps to luxurious “bubble” tents with transparent domes for stargazing. This includes dinner, typically a “Zarb” – a traditional Bedouin barbecue cooked underground.
Part 6: The Dead Sea, Madaba & Mount Nebo (Day 7)
The journey continues northwards from Wadi Rum towards the lowest point on Earth.
The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is renowned for its hyper-saline water, which makes floating effortless, and its mineral-rich black mud, known for its therapeutic properties.
Experience: Most visitors access the sea through private beach resorts (e.g., at the Holiday Inn or Movenpick resorts), which offer showers, changing facilities, and mud pools. Public beaches are also available but are more basic.
Important Tips: Do not shave before entering the water, avoid getting water in your eyes or mouth, and do not stay in for more than 20 minutes at a time. Remember to rinse off thoroughly afterwards.
Madaba: The City of Mosaics
A short drive from the Dead Sea, Madaba is famous for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics.
The Madaba Map: Located in St. George’s Church, this 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land is the oldest surviving original cartographic depiction of the region.
The Archaeological Park: Showcases a complex of churches and villas with exquisite mosaic floors.
Mount Nebo
A ten-minute drive from Madaba, Mount Nebo is believed to be the burial place of Moses and where he was granted a view of the Promised Land. The memorial church houses more beautiful mosaics, and on a clear day, the view across the Jordan Valley to the Holy Land is spectacular.
Transportation for this Leg
The most flexible way to cover this route is by private car or taxi. You can travel from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea (approx. 4 hours), then to Madaba and Mount Nebo (approx. 1 hour from the Dead Sea), before returning to Amman (approx. 30 minutes).
Part 7: Return to Amman & Departure (Day 8)
The final day can be spent on last-minute souvenir shopping in Amman, visiting any missed attractions, or simply relaxing before heading to Queen Alia International Airport for departure.
A Note on Jordanian Hospitality
“Ahlan wa sahlan” (welcome) is more than just a phrase in Jordan; it’s a deeply ingrained cultural value. Visitors are often struck by the genuine warmth and generosity of the Jordanian people. Accepting an invitation for tea or coffee from a local shopkeeper is a common and delightful experience that embodies this spirit.
Final Practical Tips
Bargaining: Expected in souks and for taxi rides that aren’t metered. Be polite and friendly.
Tipping: Appreciated for good service in restaurants (10%), for guides, and drivers.
Hydration: The climate is dry. Drink plenty of water, especially when hiking in Petra and Wadi Rum.
Respect Local Customs: Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Ask for permission before photographing people, especially Bedouins.
A journey through Jordan is a journey through time, offering profound historical insights and awe-inspiring natural beauty. With careful planning and an open mind, this itinerary will provide memories that last a lifetime.