9 Awesome things to do in Amman Jordan

9 Awesome things to do in Amman, Jordan (update 2023)

Situated in the north of Jordan is Amman, the country’s lively capital city and for many the starting point of their Jordan itinerary.

It’s a city that marches to the beat of its own drum, and therefore it’s often said that you either like it or not.

In my opinion, Amman is dangerously underrated, and one of the most authentic destinations in the country. So when I noticed that Amman is often skipped in favour of other highlights in Jordan, I was actually pretty surprised.

Amman combines the hustle and bustle of a large modern city with a unique history and exceptional architecture, and when roaming around downtown you will be mesmerized instantly.

From souks teeming with locals to ancient Roman architecture, exceptional luxurious hotels (make sure you check out W Amman) to opulent mosques, Amman is without question the perfect place to get a feel for today’s Jordan.

For the above reasons, this vibrant capital deserves at least two days of your itinerary.

To help you uncover the absolute best of Amman, I’ve put together this in-depth guide, including the city’s highlights – plus advice on where to stay, when to visit and more.

These are my absolute favourite things to do in Amman and surrounds.

If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and support me to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying a virtual coffee here.

Where is Amman

Amman, also known as the capital of Jordan is a lively city that is built upon 19 hills in the northwest of Jordan.

Considered the largest city in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Amman is named the ninth-largest metropolitan area in the Middle East, with a population of roughly 4 million as of 2022.

All of this makes Amman the country’s centre of all things economic, political, and culture.

Where to stay in Amman

As with most capital cities, Amman is teeming with excellent accommodation options, catering to any budget or travel style. 

Whether you’re after a cheap stay in a hostel, wish to splurge on a luxury boutique hotel or looking for something in between, I’m pretty confident that you’ll find what you’re looking for.

To help you find your stay, I’ve put together my favourite accommodation in Amman.

 

Budget

Luckily for us, it’s rather easy to find affordable accommodation in the city centre of Amman – these are my favourite out of the bunch.

Sandy Palace Hotel | A travellers favourite within this price range, this hotel is fairly priced while still providing a brilliant hotel experience, with large rooms, excellent in-house facilities and a good breakfast spread on offer.

Nomads Hotel | Another surprisingly affordable option, Nomads Hotel is situated only a stone’s throw away from Rainbow Street and offers excellent minimal-style rooms that won’t break the bank. Double rooms at €50 a night make this one of the best budget hotels in Amman.

 

Mid-range

Most accommodations in Amman are categorized in the mid-range category, meaning you’ll likely find great options in this range. These are some of my personal favourites:

Coral Tower Hotel by Hansa | Located within walking distance of all the best things to do in Amman, this 4-star hotel offers spacious airconditioned rooms, free private parking, and a shared lounge and a terrace.

Harir Palace Hotel | This boutique-style hotel boasts beautifully decorated rooms, a large rooftop pool, and an in-house health club, making it one of the highest-rated in this price range. Doubles start at €80 per night.

 

Luxury

Based on first-hand experience, Amman has no shortage of Luxury stays, offering top-notch experiences for those willing to splurge. These are two of my favourites:

+ W Amman | This is where I stayed, and I really had an incredible time here. W Amman provides spacious modern-style rooms with all the luxuries to unwind after a long day of explorations around downtown Amman. So, if you’re looking for top-notch comfort and high-quality hospitality, make sure you click the link to see how awesome this hotel is.

Mövenpick Hotel Amman | Situated around 8 kilometres away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Amman, this gorgeous hotel has well-designed rooms, world-class service and a stunning outdoor pool with views over the city. If you’re willing to spend a little extra, you won’t be disappointed, so make sure you have a look at this one.

9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN AMMAN, JORDAN


1 | Take in the views from the Amman Citadel

Nestled on Jabal al-Qal’a in the heart of downtown Amman, the Amman Citadel provides the most stunning views of the city, with stunning panoramic views as far as the eye can see.

Home to several of Amman’s most noteworthy historical sites – including the Temple of Hercules, Umayyad Palace and the Jordan Archaeological Museum, this area is easily one of the best things to do in Amman, as it displays the rich and diverse history of the city.

On top of that, the views over the Roman Theatre with the characteristic houses built against the encircling hills make for an epic scene, especially when visiting during the golden hour.

As a result, this place is teeming with local families and tourists alike, all gathering here to watch the sunset illuminate the iconic hills of Amman – and believe me, it’s truly an unforgettable experience.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Amman Citadel

Cost | Entrance fee 3 JOD (€3,90) per person

Amman Citadel | Things to do in Amman

2 | Visit the Temple of Hercules

Set within the heart of the Amman Citadel are the imposing remains of the Temple of Hercules.

Though it is said that the construction has never been fully completed, the temple of Hercules was built in typical Roman style under the rule of Roman senator and general Geminius Marcianus between 162 and 166 AD.

Whilst the temple is far from what it once used to be – or intended to be, the Temple of Hercules is still the most significant landmark found within the grounds of the Amman Citadel.

Furthermore, you can also stumble upon the remnants of a large stone-carved hand, which was once part of an enormous statue of the ancient Roman god Hercules.

Strolling around the imposing ruins was in many ways one of my favourite things to do in Amman, so make sure you drop by at least once while exploring the time-worn citadel.

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | The Temple of Hercules

Temple of Hercules | Amman things to do

3 | Admire the Umayyad Palace

Established on the Northern part of Amman’s Jabal al-Qal’a, the ancient Umayyad Palace is a large complex that dates back as far as the Umayyad period.

Now largely ruined, the palace was built over the remainders of Roman constructions in the years between 724 and 743 AD by Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan, also known as ‘The Dew of the Stone’.

At present, the magnificent Umayyad Palace gives its visitors a glimpse into the life of the Umayyad era, making it one of the most interesting structures in the Amman Citadel.

The intriguing architecture makes this palace extremely unique, and for a photographer like me, it created the perfect backdrop for some of my favourite photos I took in Jordan.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | The Umayyad Palace

Umayyad Palace Amman
Umayyad Palace Amman Jordan

4 | Behold the Roman Theatre

Built in the 2nd century, the Roman Theatre can seat up to 6,000 people and dates back as far as the Roman Era, when Amman was still known as Philadelphia.

Whether seen from atop of the Amman Citadel or up close and personal, the Roman Theatre is an impressive sight to behold and still reflects the greatness of the once-thriving Roman Empire.

Besides the theatre, there are also two small museums, one on either side of the theatre; the Folklore Museum and the Museum of Popular Traditions – both displaying plenty of interesting ancient artefacts and costumes.

So whether you’re a history buff, or keen to tick off the best things to do in Amman, I believe a visit to the Roman Theatre is essential for anyone travelling here, as it allows you to really understand the history and culture of the city.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | The Roman Theatre

Cost | 2 JOD ( €2,60) per person

Opening hours | Daily 0800 – 1830

Roman theatre Amman

5 | Behold the exquisite King Abdullah I Mosque

One of the best things to do in Amman, and also one of the more unique if you ask me, is bringing a visit to the exquisite mosque of King Abdullah I.

Defined by its characteristic blue domes, King Abdullah I Mosque can hold over 7.000 worshippers, making it one of the largest mosques in Jordan.

On top of that, the mosque is also accessible to non-Muslim visitors, which isn’t very common in the country. Do note, that it requires a small entrance fee of 2 Jod – plus the rule that you dress appropriately, meaning men wear to cover their knees and women their heads.

The mosque is truly a spectacular place to behold, both inside and out, and after my visit, I believe it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Amman, so make sure you take notes, especially if you’re keen to visit authentic places that are rich in culture.

While it is located slightly off Downtown Amman, I believe that visiting King Abdullah I Mosque is absolutely worth the short detour.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | King Abdullah I Mosque

Cost | 2 JOD (€2,60) per person

King Abdullah I Mosque | Things to do in Amman

6 | Visit the Dead Sea

While I recommend visiting as part of a road trip, Amman makes for an excellent base from which to explore one of Jordan’s most unique natural highlights; the Dead Sea.

Situated at roughly an hour’s drive from Amman is the Dead Sea, a unique natural phenomenon that is marked by its incredibly high concentration of salt, which allows visitors to float atop the water.

It’s also the perfect place to relax an afternoon away, with plenty of luxurious hotels offering pools and mud baths dotted along the salty beach shores.

Apart from that, the with salt formation flanked beaches make for a unique and picture-perfect backdrop, ideal for those looking to shoot some astonishing photography.

Whether you visit as part of a Jordan road trip, or as a day trip from Amman, the Dead Sea is one of the absolute highlights of any trip to Jordan.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | The Dead Sea

Dead Sea | Day trips from Amman

7 | Spent the night at W Amman

Quite frankly, Jordan has no shortage of luxurious hotels, and the stylish W Amman hotel is without question the best option for those looking for a splurge in Amman.

To me, there’s no better place to be after a long day of exploring, than the elegant W Hotel, with its astonishing contemporary rooms, top-notch in-house restaurants, and all the essential luxuries for an otherworldly stay.

During my time in Amman, I was lucky enough to spend one night in the Cool Corner Suite that boasts stunning views over the Amman Skyline and had a more than brilliant time, with an excellent dinner in their in-house restaurant Enso as the absolute highlight.

So, if you’re looking for a unique place to unwind after experiencing the hustle and bustle of Amman, I would highly recommend W Amman – it truly was one of the best accommodation experiences I’ve ever had!

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | W Amman

Book | Prices and availability here

W Amman | Things to do in Amman
W Amman Jordan

8 | Roam around Rainbow Street

Famed for its trendy bars, restaurants and cafes, Rainbow Street is a vibrant area away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Amman.

The colourful street has no shortage of graffiti and is marked by a relaxing atmosphere, with plenty of souvenir shops too, selling everything from artisanal crafts to jewellery and pottery.

To me though, Rainbow Street felt a bit overhyped, as it was far from what I expected it to be. 

However, if you have the time, I suggest taking a short walk around the colourful streets to experience the area yourself – as you might have a completely different experience after all.

Having said that, I just enjoyed other parts of Amman more, as they’re teeming with cultural and historical landmarks that piqued my interest.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Rainbow Street

Rainbow street Amman
Rainbow Street | Things to do in Amman

9 | Visit the Roman ruins of Jerash

Given Amman is only 50 kilometres away from the Roman ruins of Jerash, visiting them as part of a day trip is considered one of the best things to do in Amman – and trust me, it truly is.

Coming in right after Petra in terms of the most popular tourist attractions in Jordan, the ruins of Jerash are actually quite famous, as it’s regarded as one of the best-preserved Roman sites outside of Italy.

Home to a dozen of temples, theatres, triumphal gates, and collonaded streets, Jerash is an extensive area that showcases some of the best Roman architecture in the world, making it a must-visit for anyone travelling to Jordan.

It’s worth noting that Jerash is fully exposed, meaning the ruins are very hot to explore around noon – so I’d highly recommend bringing a hat and some sun protection.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Jerash

Cost | 10 JOD (€13,30) per person. Jerash is free of the entrance with the Jordan Pass

Opening hours | Daily 0800 – 1830 in summer, 0800 – 1730 in April and May

Recommend tour | This excellent private day tour takes you to Jerash, Ajloun Castle, and Umm Qais

Jerash | Things to do in Amman
Things to do in Amman Jordan

Things to do in Amman | The essentials


Best time to visit Amman | Weather in Amman

First things first; summers in Jordan will be scorching hot, with temperatures reaching heights of 40 degrees celsius.

For that reason, I believe the best time to visit Amman is during the spring months of March to May when the average temperature is significantly more pleasant for explorations around town.

Alternatively, the shoulder months of September to November are great too.

During this time, the days are still long and somewhat hot, yet the afternoons cool down quickly, which makes it extremely pleasant to go out and explore.

How to get around Amman

Walk

Amman is a relatively compact city and most of the best things to do in Amman are situated fairly close to each other in the downtown area. 

For that reason, I believe the absolute best way to uncover the city is by foot.

 

Bus

Since most accommodations are located slightly off Downtown Amman, using the bus is often necessary to reach the city centre.

However, it’s kinda confusing that the busses don’t follow a strict time schedule, and leave as soon as they’re full with passengers – which doesn’t take long in Amman.

If travelling by local bus sounds a tad too adventurous, opt for a taxi to Downtown Amman instead.

How to get to Amman

Flights

The Queen Alia International Airport is located just half an hour from Amman, and hosts flights from roughly 40 airlines from all over the world, making it the country’s main international airport.

For flights to Amman, I would highly recommend Skyscanner. Not only is their website incredibly user-friendly, but it also holds a large variety of airlines, and grants the possibility to find good rates.

From the airport, it’s pretty straightforward to get to the city centre, with two shuttle busses servicing the area – the Sariya Shuttle Bus or the Airport Express Bus. The busses leave every 30 minutes and a one-way ticket will cost you around 3,5 JOD (€4,70) per person. For more information visit the official Amman airport website.

 

Car

Like most places in Jordan, Amman is easily reached by car, which makes Jordan the perfect destination for a scenic road trip.

If you’re looking to rent a car in Jordan you will have all the freedom to travel at your own pace – plus getting to Jordan’s many highlights will be as easy as it gets.

For car rental in Jordan, I would recommend Rentalcars.com, as they offer excellent service, additional insurance, and a broad selection of cars, all at an affordable price.

It’s worth noting that the parking fees in Amman can add up quickly, so I advise finding accommodation with private parking or park just outside of downtown.

SAFETY IN JORDAN | TRAVEL INSURANCE

When travelling this big wide world, I never go on an adventure without my essential travel insurance sorted out, and though I felt completely safe in Jordan, I recommend anyone travelling here to do the same.

Though you rather don’t think about the things that could go wrong, there’s always a chance that it might happen, and when that’s the case, it is better to be safe than sorry.

To help you find the right policy, I’ve listed two of my favourite options below:

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

Cheers!

I’ve been on this travel blogging journey since 2019. If you appreciate what I do here, these are some ways you can support me.

Follow me on Instagram

The Jordan Pass 8 useful tips

The Jordan Pass: 8 useful tips to get you going (2022 update)

HOME  |  JORDAN

THE JORDAN PASS: 8 USEFUL TIPS TO GET YOU GOING (2022 UPDATE)

The Jordan Pass 8 useful tips

It’s fair to applause the Jordan tourism board, as they made it incredibly easy to explore the country’s major tourist attractions.

With the clear initiative to help travellers throughout their journey in Jordan, they designed the Jordan Pass; an all-in-one sightseeing package that will save holders money, while also letting them travel more efficiently.

With access to over 40 tourist attractions, including Petra, Wadi Rum and Jerash, and the waiving of the tourist visa fees when staying longer than four days in the country, the Jordan Pass makes for an excellent deal, and certainly one I recommend purchasing.

To help you out, I’ve put together this in-depth Jordan Pass guide, featuring all the essential information, including how it works, the price, where to buy, which options to choose from, and more.

The Jordan Pass: 8 tips to get you going


1 | A brief overview
2 | The price
3 | Can I Buy it at the airport?
4 | Where to buy?

5 | What sites are included?
6 | Tourist entry visa
7 | Is it worth it?
8 | Plan your Jordan itinerary

#1 The Jordan Pass | A brief overview

Tailor-made by the official Jordan Tourism Board, the Jordan pass is the ultimate sightseeing package for those travelling to Jordan.

With the clear ambition to make travelling in Jordan as convenient as possible, the Jordan Pass was made to help visitors make the most of their trip, whilst they also save money and travel more efficiently.

It is good to mention, that the Jordan Pass comes in the form of a personalized digital document that will be scanned upon your arrival in the country, and once you visit the included sights.

Additionally, you can also print your Jordan Pass, since there’s a QR code on the ticket.

I’d personally recommend printing two copies of your pass, in case something happens to your phone and you lose access to your digital pass.

The Jordan Pass
Why buy the Jordan Pass

#2 The Jordan Pass price

Since there are three different options to choose from, the price of the Jordan Pass depends on one key factor; the number of days you plan to explore the ancient city of Petra.

The three options include:

Jordan Wanderer

One day access to Petra
70 JD (€90,-)

Jordan Explorer

Two days access to Petra
75 JOD (€97,-)

Jordan Expert

Three days access to Petra
80 JOD (€103,-)

I opted for the Jordan Explorer, since I planned two consecutive days exploring Petra, and would highly recommend anyone to do the same.

One thing worth noting is that if you spend less than three nights in Jordan, you’ll be charged the initial visa entry fee – 40 JOD (€52,-) when leaving the country.

Price of the Jordan Pass

#3 Can I buy the Jordan Pass at the airport?

Unlike the Jordan tourist entry visa, it is unfortunately not possible to purchase your Jordan Pass upon arrival at the airport.

Though the online services are excellent, I totally understand why some travellers prefer buying it once they arrive in the country, especially if you don’t hold a credit card.

Jordan Pass tips
Jordan Pass | Where to buy

#4 So where to get the Jordan Pass?

Instead, you can only buy the Jordan Pass online via the official Jordan Pass website.

Since it takes a few days to process the order, I’d highly recommend purchasing your Jordan Pass at least one week in advance of your trip to Jordan.

Additionally, if your trip is somewhat spontaneously, you can also opt to speed up the process to 1 business day – do keep in mind that this comes at a price.

While I’ve read several stories about issues with the checkout process, I was fortunate enough to get my pass in one try. Still, this could be a great reminder of why you should buy your Jordan Pass in advance.

After purchasing the Jordan Pass, it will be valid for use within 12 months. Also, the pass will automatically expire 14 days after it was first scanned at one of the 40 attractions.

Jordan Pass cost
Jordan Pass | Jerash

#5 The Jordan Pass | What sites are included?

The Jordan Pass grants holders free one-time entrance to over 40 tourist attractions in Jordan.

I’ve listed some of the most popular attractions included in the pass below:

Petra | Listed one of UNESCO’s New World Wonders, the ancient city of Petra really needs no introduction. This archaeological masterpiece is simply a must-visit for anyone travelling to Jordan.

Wadi Rum | Situated in the southern part of Jordan, the Wadi Rum is a vast protected desert reserve that is marked by towering rock formations and rippled sand dunes.

Jerash | Built by the Romans more than 6,500 years ago, the ancient city of Jerash is known as the largest and best-preserved site of Roman architecture outside of Italy.

The Roman Theatre | This 6,000-seat, 2nd-century Roman theatre is one of Amman’s most famous landmarks, and clearly, one to add to your list with things to do in Jordan.

Amman Citadel | Established in the heart of Downtown Amman lies the Amman Citadel, a citadel of incredible grandeur with a long history of occupation by many great civilizations.

Other attractions include Aqaba Castle, the Jordan Archaeological Museum, Karak Castle, and Madaba Archaeological Museum among others. See all the included attractions here.

Jordan Pass | What sights are included

#6 What about your tourist entry visa?

On top of the free entrance to Jordan’s most popular highlights, the Jordan Pass will also grant holders a free tourist entry visa when staying a minimum of four days in the country.

But do be aware, you will be charged 40 JOD (€52,-) for the visa entry fee when leaving the country within the four-day mark.

Tips for the Jordan Pass

#7 The Jordan Pass | Is it worth it?

If you do the math, you’ll quickly come to the conclusion that purchasing the Jordan Pass will be worth every penny, given a day ticket to Petra and your Jordan tourist entry visa will combine for a total price of 90 JOD.

Meaning those two will already cost more than the three-day Jordan Expert Pass (80 JOD), which is the most expansive option and includes three days in Petra.

Not to mention, that by buying the Jordan Pass, you’ll also waive the entrance fee to Wadi Rum (5 JOD), Jerash (10 JOD), and the Amman Citadel (3 JOD), to name but a few.

Add to that, that the Jordan Pass allows you to skip the line at Petra, and the Jordan Pass turns into an absolute winner.

Jordan Pass | Wadi Rum
Jordan Pass | Petra

#8 Now its time to plan your Jordan itinerary

Now that you know all the nitty-gritty details about the Jordan Pass, it’s time to plan your adventurous road trip itinerary through Jordan.

If you’re curious about my 10-day road trip in Jordan, I’ve written an in-depth itinerary that brings you along all the major highlights of this incredible country, so make sure you give it a read too.

Additionally, I’ve also written detailed guides on Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, Jerash and Amman.

Jordan Pass guide

SAFETY IN JORDAN | TRAVEL INSURANCE

When travelling this big wide world, I never go on an adventure without my essential travel insurance sorted out, and though I felt completely safe in Jordan, I recommend anyone travelling here to do the same.

Though you rather don’t think about the things that could go wrong, there’s always a chance that it might happen, and when that’s the case, it is better to be safe than sorry.

To help you find the right policy, I’ve listed two of my favourite options below:

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

PLAN YOUR JORDAN ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES



A guide to Petra in Jordan

A travellers guide to Petra, Jordan’s ancient Nabatean city

Planning to visit Petra, Jordan’s New World Wonder? Here’s my traveller’s guide to Petra, featuring what to see and do, where to stay, how to get there, first-hand travel tips, and more.


Only a few places on earth require zero introduction, the ancient city of Petra is one of them.

Whether it’s its listing as one of UNESCO’s New World Wonders, the myriad displays on your Instagram feed, its appearance in the movie Indiana Jones, or its dominant presence in the history books, I’m sure you’re familiar with this iconic ancient city in the heart of the Jordanian desert.

Though its prime days are now long gone, the ancient city of Petra remains a place of unparalleled charm, and believe me, seeing it in person for the first time is both mystical and astonishing.

Exceptional architectural masterpieces and ornate rock-cut facades set the tone for an unforgettable experience, while the unique rose-red coloured landscape and adventurous hiking trails make it even more phenomenal.

The complex itself is of tremendous size, and as the number one tourist attraction in Jordan, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Petra is jam-packed from the moment they open its doors.

For that reason, I’ve put together this detailed guide to Petra, loaded with everything you need to enjoy this jewel of the ancient Nabatean world, including a few essential things to know before you visit.

A TRAVELLER’S GUIDE TO PETRA, JORDAN


WHERE IS PETRA, JORDAN

The outstanding archaeological site of Petra is situated between the rough mountain ridges that encircle Wadi Musa, a small town in southwest Jordan.

With nearly 1 million visitors annually, this New World Wonder is considered the number-one tourist attraction in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF PETRA

Before you start exploring the incredible grounds of Petra, I believe it’s essential to learn about the ancient city’s intriguing history, so here’s a brief overview.

It is said, that the region of present-day Petra was first inhabited around 7.000 BC, as historians and archaeologists found traces that lead back to several Neolithic villages.

Around the 4th century BC, a nomadic Arab tribe named the Nabataeans reached the area, who in the following years decided it was time to leave their nomadic ways of living behind.

With incredible riches and a set of advanced engineering skills, the Nabataean people started building their settlement, that many historians believe to be one of the most sophisticated ancient cities ever made.

From that moment on, Petra became the capital of the Nabataean kingdom and prospered into a major trading hub for luxuriant goods, such as incense from Arabia, silk from China and spices from India. At its peak, more than 30.000 people called Petra their home.

At some point, the international trade routes shifted, and along with it the power, wealth and reputation of the Nabataean kingdom and its people. This significant change left Petra vulnerable to the Romans, who eventually took over the rock-cut city in the year 106 AD.

Under Roman rule, Petra thrived once again, and in addition to the utterly fascinating rock-cut buildings of the Nabataeans, the Romans added several new structures to the city.

Unfortunately, due to two earthquakes in 363 and 551, Petra was partly ruined, which resulted that it became abandoned by its people, and eventually forgotten.

Though the local Bedouin people knew exactly where it was, ‘the lost city of Petra’ had been kept secret to the rest of the world for over a thousand years.

It wasn’t until Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered it in 1812, that the ‘rose-red city is half as old as time’ was put on the map of those from the western world.

Today, Petra is among Unesco’s New World Wonders with nearly 1 million visitors annually.

PETRA TICKETS | ENTRANCE FEE 2021

At the moment of writing, there are three ticket options available for Petra, and the one you choose depends on the number of days you wish to explore the rose-red city.

It is worth mentioning that entrance to Petra by Night is not included in the above tickets. These tickets need to be purchased separately at a cost of $24 per person. Also, kids under the age of 12 have free entrance to Petra.

The options include:

One-day ticket | An excellent option if you’re short on time, but keep in mind that it’s stressful, if not impossible to see Petra in one day. Cost $70.

Two-day ticket | If you’re keen to explore Petra in a more relaxing manner, I would highly prefer this option. I’d chosen this option and had enough time to visit the highlights and follow some hiking trails. Cost $78.

Three-day ticket | Petra is such an impressive place, that it’s easy to see why one would spend three days here. This option is perfect If you wish to uncover Petra thoroughly, with the flexibility to do it at your own pace. Cost $85.

One word of caution, your passport is required at all times.

PETRA TICKETS ONLINE | THE JORDAN PASS

Though it is easy to purchase your entrance ticket upon arrival at the Petra Visitor Centre, I believe it’s better to acquire a Jordan Pass before flying into the country.

Not only does the Jordan Pass grants entrance to Jordan’s most popular highlights, including Petra, but it also waives the visa fees for those planning to spend more than 4 days in Jordan.

I applied for the Jordan Pass in advance, and thought it was great value for the money – plus I was able to skip the ticket line at the Petra Visitor Centre – winner!

For more information, availability, and applying, make sure you visit the iVisa website.

THINGS TO SEE IN PETRA

With hundreds of impressive structures, dazzling viewpoints and a number of adventuresome hiking trails dotted throughout Petra, it’s hard to imagine that 85 percent of this ancient Nabataean city is still hidden under the dusty soil.

Though it sounds overwhelming, it is actually quite straightforward to explore the valley, with one well-mapped-out walking route from the Petra Visitor Centre to the Monastery.

On top of that, there are several alternative trails that take you to the lesser-known structures, as well as panoramic viewpoints offering incredible vistas of Petra and surrounds.

Also, I highly advise having realistic expectations – the Petra complex is simply too extensive to see in its entirety.

That said, let’s get into the highlights of Petra.

THE SIQ

It is inevitable that the first part of your Petra adventure starts by walking through the Siq, a narrow 1.2-kilometre long gorge that slowly guides you into the hidden rose-red city.

Take it from me, it’s a sensational experience to follow the path between the towering natural rock walls, knowing that Petra’s famous Treasury could show up at any given time.

At some point, the gorge narrows to a width of roughly 2 metres, while it is flanked by towering rock walls. Given the light still enters the Siq from above, these incredible circumstances create loads of awesome photography opportunities.

The Siq is also the place to see the Nabataean’s progressive water system, leading water from Wadi Musa into the city via small channels that are carved directly out of the rock walls.

The Siq Petra Entrance
The Siq | Things to do in Petra
The Siq | Petra Jordan Entrance

THE TREASURY | AL-KHAZNEH

There it is, Petra’s absolute centrepiece – the otherworldly Treasury, locally known as Al-Khazneh.

Seeing the famous facade of the Treasury through the narrow crack of the Siq, is in many ways a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.

Cut out of the rose-red sandstone rocks, the Treasury is an impressive 39-metre high structure that is said to be the mausoleum of Nabatean King Aretas IV, who ruled Petra during the 1st century AD.

Legend has it that an Egyptian pharaoh hid his treasure in the urn on the upper part of the facade, which resulted in the name; Al-Khazneh – Treasury of the pharaoh.

At present, the urn is marked by rifle shots, given the local bedouin people hoped that the believed ‘treasure’ would eventually fall out of the facade.

For an unforgettable experience, make sure you’ll arrive at the Treasury as one of the first – I know, waking up early on holidays sounds like a no-go, but believe me, it’s totally worth it!

The Treasury | Things to do in Petra
The Treasury | Things to do in Petra Jordan

THE STREET OF FACADES

Running straight through the heart of Petra is the Street of Facades, a picturesque street that is lined with more than 40 rock-cut tombs and houses.

At some point in history, this street became the epicentre of Petra, and it’s pretty cool to imagine how the atmosphere must have been back in the days.

Today, the Street of Facades is known as the main tourist route in Petra, as it connects the Treasury with Hadrian’s Gate.

Adjacent to the street are some of Petra’s best landmarks, including the Royal Tombs – the Urn Tomb, the Silk Tomb, the Corinthian Tomb and the Palace Tomb, as well as the Petra Theater.

THE NABATEAN THEATER

Situated on the left side of the Street of Facades lies the Nabatean Theater, a time-worn theatre that was built more than 2000 years ago.

Though it is often assumed that the theatre descends from the Romans, it is actually built under Nabatean rule – which is reflected in the distinctive rock-cut architecture for which the latter is known.

The initial theatre had a capacity of 3000 seats, but the Romans eventually enlarged it to 8500, which makes it one of the largest theatres in Jordan.

Street of facades | Things to do in Petra
Petra Theater | Street of facades in Petra

THE ROYAL TOMBS OF PETRA

Next in line are the Royal Tombs, a series of four unique tombs; the Urn Tomb, the Silk Tomb, the Corinthian Tomb and the Palace Tomb.

What makes the Royal Tombs one of the most impressive things to see in Petra, is that these four tombs cover the entire side of a humongous mountain.

And though the Royal Tombs look stunning from afar, I would also recommend visiting each tomb individually if you have the time.

Do note that all four tombs are positioned on an elevated platform, and can only be reached by following the steps up on the right side of the Street of Facades.

Royal Tombs of Petra
Royal Tombs of Petra, Jordan
Royal Tombs of Petra | Things to do in Petra

THE MONASTERY | AD-DEIR

Despite being the furthest away from the Petra Visitor Centre, the Monastery is actually one of the most popular monuments in the complex, and given its incredible appearance, this is no surprise.

Hidden high in the mountains of Petra, this incredible place is reached by following the rocky 800-steps up, which should take no longer than an hour if you have hiking experience.

Following the scenic hike up, you’ll be welcomed by a stunning rock-cut facade (both in size and looks), and seeing it up close and personal, is in many ways something to look forward to.

In addition to the Monastery’s impressive facade, the area also houses several awe-inspiring panoramic viewpoints, as well as an excellent restaurant to grab some well-deserved refreshments.

For the best perspective and photography possibilities, make sure you climb the viewpoints behind the restaurant too.

The Monastery | Things to do in Petra

THE GARDEN TEMPLE

Situated in a scenic valley just off the popular main trail, the Garden Temple is actually a bit of a hidden gem.

One of my favourite moments in Petra was exactly here, enjoying a cup of fresh mint tea while a local Bedouin played me some traditional melodies.

While it requires somewhat more effort to get to the Garden Temple, it was one of my favourite places in Petra, given the authentic atmosphere and only a handful of other people exploring it.

From here, you can also follow the stairs up in the direction of the High Place of Sacrifice.

Garden Temple | Petra Entrance Fee
Petra Jordan Guide | Things to do in Petra
Petra Jordan Entrance Fee

AL-KHUBTHA TRAIL | THE TREASURY FROM ABOVE

If you’re keen to see the iconic facade of the Treasury from above, the adventurous Al-Khubtha Trail should definitely be on top of your list of things to do in Petra.

Starting at the Street of Facades, the Al-Khubtha Trail takes you along the Royal Tombs of Petra, before you climb the steep stairs to the summit of the Jabal Al-Khubtha.

From here you’ll have stunning panoramic views of the Petra theatre, the Street of Facades, the Colonnaded Street, as well as the surrounding valleys of Petra.

After taking in the views, turn left into the valley, where a sketchy downhill trail takes you to the most iconic viewpoint in the whole of Petra – believe me, I’m not exaggerating.

At the end of the trail, you see a small bedouin hut that serves as a cafe. Though the costs are inflated here, it is quite an experience to enjoy the epic view with a cup of tea or a refreshing juice.

One thing worth mentioning is that the Al-Khubtha Trail runs in one direction, meaning you have to hike the same way back.

Al Khubtha trail | The Treasury from above Petra Jordan

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO SEE IN PETRA

As you probably already know by now, Petra is huge in size, meaning you’ll have to plan your visit thoughtfully if you want to make the most of it.

While exploring the above-listed highlights will easily consume two days of your time, there are a few additional landmarks that shouldn’t be left unnoticed.

So if you have enough time in the complex, consider visiting these ones too:

HIGH PLACE OF SACRIFICE

Situated atop the towering Jebel al-Madhbah mountain is the High Place of Sacrifice, a holy area that, as the name might suggest, was used for sacrifices and spiritual ceremonies.

These days, the High Place of Sacrifice is the most accessible of Petra’s high places, and reaching the summit takes only 45 minutes.

With no shelter from the sun during the hike, I’d advise visiting early morning or late afternoon.

PETRA BY NIGHT

In addition to your daytime adventures in Petra, it is also possible to behold the iconic Treasury under the starry Jordanian sky.

Three nights a week, Petra is all about its popular light show performance, when local bedouin people make music and tell stories in front of the enlightened Treasury.

While I totally understand that a walk through the candle-lined Siq is a magical experience to many, the overall experience just wasn’t for me.

For those of you that do want to visit Petra by Night, it is held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 20:30 to 22:30, and tickets can be bought at most hotels for 17 JOD ($24) per person.

Things to do in Petra Jordan
Petra by night entrance fee
Street of Facades Petra

WHERE TO STAY IN PETRA | WADI MUSA

It is good to note, that all explorations in Petra begin in Wadi Musa, and for that reason, this cosy little town is where you want to base yourself.

Right, Wadi Musa is only a small town, but when it comes to accommodation, you’ll have no problem finding an option that caters to your travel preferences and budget.

To help you find a place that suits your needs, I’ve listed some of my personal favourites below, one of which is marked – this is the place where I stayed.

Town Season Hotel | If you’re looking for comfort without breaking the bank, Town Season’s is for you. Located within only 20 minutes of the Petra Visitor Centre, this hotel offers well-designed rooms, comfy beds, a great in-house restaurant, and an excellent breakfast spread. Deluxe twin rooms at just $67 a night, make this place an absolute bargain.

+ Anbat Midtown Hotel | Located at the doorstep of Wadi Musa’s lively cafe and restaurant scene, this newly renovated hotel offers air-conditioned private rooms, great breakfast, and several spacious common area’s, including a rooftop terrace with a view. Add a free shuttle service to the Petra Visitor Centre, and you understand why I stayed here.

Petra Guest House Hotel | Those looking for something more luxurious might want to check out this one. Located right next to the Petra entrance, this highly-rated hotel brings comfort and hospitality to a whole nother level. Not only do they offer stylish air-conditioned rooms, a large garden, and incredibly friendly staff, but they also have an authentic cave bar set within a 1st-century Nabatean house. If you’re looking for a unique hotel experience, I highly believe this is your best option.

Alternatively, search for accommodations in Wadi Musa on booking.com.

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT PETRA

Petra is situated in the vast desert landscape of Jordan, meaning it’s somewhat challenging in terms of the weather.

Given Jordan lies in the Middle East, it is good to note that it becomes sweltering hot during the peak summer months, yet freezing cold during the winter months.

Whilst Petra is open every day of the year, I believe the best time to visit is from early March to late May, and from early October to late November.

By planning your trip outside the peak summer months, you’ll steer clear of the intense summer heat, while you also share your experience with significantly fewer crowds.

However, the early mornings and evenings are often still pretty chilly in contrary to the pleasant day temperature. So make sure you bring at least one pair of trousers and a comfy hoodie!

BEST TIME OF DAY TO VISIT PETRA

Let’s get right to it, the best time to visit Petra is early in the morning, or in the late afternoon.

Not only do you have better lighting for photography during these times, but there’s also notably fewer people around the park.

Petra itself is open every day from 06:00 till 18:00 during the summer months, and from 06:00 till 16:00 during the winter months.

Given most of the large groups and guided tours arrive at Petra around 08:00, I would highly recommend waking up early for this one – believe me, it is more than worth it!

HOW TO GET TO PETRA

Given Petra is the most popular tourist attraction in the country, you’ll find a variety of transportation options to reach Wadi Musa.

To help you choose the option that works best for you, I’ve listed three options below – including the pros and cons of each.

 

CAR | Definitely, the most scenic way to get to Petra, Wadi Musa is by renting a car, which takes you through a set of rough and otherworldly landscapes along the way.

Another upside about driving in Jordan is the fact that most of the roads are actually in great condition, plus it is pretty cheap to fill up your tank.

Also, I believe that Jordan is one of the world’s best road trip destinations, meaning this option is obvious – make sure you check my Jordan road trip itinerary too.

For car rental in Jordan, I highly recommend Rentalcars.com. They offer brilliant service, additional insurance options (which is not an unnecessary luxury in Jordan), and a wide selection of cars to choose from. Prices and availability here.

 

GUIDED TOUR | Though I wouldn’t join a guided tour of Petra myself, it is actually quite a good option for those with limited time in the country.

Also, it is possible to visit Petra on a day trip from several cities in neighbouring Israel, including Eilat, Tel-Aviv and Jerusalem.

If a guided tour sounds interesting to you, I recommend booking one of the following options before arriving in Jordan.

Do keep in mind that some of the tours do not include the entrance fee to Petra itself.

Petra Full-Day Private Tour from Amman | This full-day private tour of Petra takes in all the major sights and includes an English speaking driver that picks you up at your Hotel in Amman.

Petra Full-Day Guided Tour from Eilat | Discover the incredible history of Petra with an expert guide by joining this full-day private or shared tour from Eilat – entrance fee and transport included in the price. Additional cost includes Border fees ($65) and visa fee ($60).

Petra, Jerash and Amman: 2-Day Tour from Jerusalem | This one is for those that wish to uncover the treasures of Jordan on a 2-day trip from Jerusalem, Israel. The tour includes transport, a well-spoken guide, two meals a day and the entrance fee to Petra and Jerash. Additional cost includes Border fees and visa fee (around $101 per person).

 

BUS | Since public transport in Jordan is limited, I would not necessarily recommend the use of it.

However, this doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to get to Petra by bus, it is Jordan’s number one tourist destination after all.

For those looking to visit Petra from Amman, JETT is a great private bus company that runs between Amman and Petra daily.

Do keep in mind that these buses operate on a fixed time schedule, meaning you’ll arrive in Petra around noon – which isn’t a problem if you’re planning to stay multiple days in Wadi Musa.

For tickets, availability, departures, and travel information visit the JETT website.

SAFETY IN JORDAN | TRAVEL INSURANCE

When travelling this big wide world, I never go on an adventure without my essential travel insurance sorted out, and though I felt completely safe in Jordan, I recommend anyone travelling here to do the same.

Though you rather don’t think about the things that could go wrong, there’s always a chance that it might happen, and when that’s the case, it is better to be safe than sorry.

To help you find the right policy, I’ve listed two of my favourite options below:

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

PLAN YOUR JORDAN ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES



My 8 day Jordan itinerary

My wonderful 10-day Jordan itinerary: the best of Jordan

My 10-Day Jordan itinerary

MY WONDERFUL 10-DAY JORDAN ITINERARY: THE BEST OF JORDAN

Jordan was my first-ever trip to this corner of the world, but will certainly not be my last.

Located at the heart of the Middle East, this bit-size paradise has righteously earned its fame, and after my unforgettable road trip here, it is safe to say that Jordan has become one of my all-time favourite destinations.

There’s a myriad of reasons to add Jordan to your bucket list, and I’m not just talking about visiting the ancient city of Petra and the insanely scenic Wadi Rum desert.

Though these highlights are unmissable on any Jordan itinerary indeed, there’s a whole lot more to see and do in this exceptional country.

From the lowest point on earth – the Dead Sea, to the ancient Roman ruins of Jerash, to the amazing diving spots in Aqaba, to the lively streets of Downtown Amman – Jordan is no stranger to both exciting travel experiences and world-class cultural heritage.

This Jordan itinerary is based on my 10-day road trip and talks you through the above highlights, while it also provides all the essential information in terms of accommodation, weather, transportation and more.

Here’s my wonderful Jordan road trip itinerary – enjoy planning your trip!

MY 10-DAY JORDAN ITINERARY | WHAT TO SEE AND DO


WHERE IS JORDAN

Jordan, also known as the Hashemite Kingdom in the Middle East is located on the crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe and borders with Israel, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Syria, while also sharing maritime borders with Egypt.

With its compact size, and many interesting cultural and natural highlights, Jordan has rapidly become one of the most popular road trip destinations in the world.

VISA FOR JORDAN | THE JORDAN PASS

Though it is relatively easy to obtain a tourist visa upon your arrival in Jordan, I believe the better deal is to acquire a Jordan Pass before flying into the country.

Not only does the Jordan Pass saves you time at the airport, but it also grants free entrance to 40 of the country’s most famous highlights; Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash and the Amman Citadel just to name a few.

One thing that is worth mentioning, is the fact that travellers should spend a minimum of 4 days in Jordan to waive the visa fees. Also, the Jordan Pass is equal to a single entry visa, allowing visitors a maximum of 30 days in the country.

I applied for a Jordan Pass in advance, and had an easy time exploring the country – plus the option to skip the line at most of the tourist highlights – winner!

For more information, availability, and applying, make sure you visit the iVisa website.

USEFUL GUIDES ON TRAVELLING IN JORDAN

In my opinion, a written guide is the perfect tool to fall back on, and I seriously advise you to look into one too before travelling to Jordan.

In terms of essential travel information and tips, this Lonely Planet Jordan guide helped me on several occasions during my road trip. Search your guide here.

MY 10-DAY JORDAN ITINERARY | DAILY OVERVIEW


DAY 1 | ARRIVAL IN AQABA

The coastal town of Aqaba was the perfect place to start my adventurous road trip itinerary through Jordan.

Not only is Aqaba home to the excellent King Hussein International Airport, but it is also a welcoming place to get your bearings. For that reason, I’d advise spending at least one day here to recover from your flight, before venturing deeper into Jordan’s immeasurable natural beauty.

Though I haven’t seen much of Aqaba due to late arrival, I’ve read plentiful articles that say that this coastal town is actually a great place for those into sunbathing, history and top-notch diving.

Perched next to the Red Sea, Aqaba is home to some of the world’s best scuba diving sites, with over 20 diving spots dotted along the coastline, providing a perfect setting for any level of diving.

That said, if you have more days to follow my itinerary, I’d advise taking some extra time to appreciate Aqaba’s lively underwater world and the quaint beaches adjacent – unfortunately, my time here was limited.

 

AQABA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Aqaba

Where to stay in Aqaba | DoubleTree by Hilton provides comfortable rooms at an excellent rate, perfect for those keen to unwind after a long flight. Additionally, I would recommend Jordan Seasons Hotel.

Alternatively, search for accommodation in Aqaba on Booking.com.

DAY 2 – 3 | VENTURE DEEP INTO WADI RUM

The first highlight on this Jordan road trip itinerary and by far my favourite destination in the country is the otherworldly Wadi Rum desert.

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wadi Rum is an utterly magnificent landscape that is home to rippled sand dunes, towering rock formations, and burnt-orange desert terrain that stretches far in all directions.

With more than 720 square kilometres, Wadi Rum is actually known as one of the largest deserts in the world, and for that reason, best explored by a 4×4 jeep.

If you’re keen to uncover Wadi Rum as part of a full-day jeep tour, make sure you’ll be driven around by an authentic Bedouin guide. By doing so, you’ll be taken along all the nitty-gritty hotspots.

After your jeep tour, it is time to pick a sand dune, sit down and watch a breathtaking sunset light up the otherworldly dunes and rock formations of Wadi Rum – this truly is a spectacle to behold.

On top of that, there’s a bunch of other great things to do within Wadi Rum, such as uncovering the dunes by foot or beholding one of the desert’s famous movie scenes, including those of The Martian and Aladdin.

But to me, the absolute highlight on any visit to Wadi Rum, is spending the night under the starry Jordanian sky in a luxurious martian dome or one of the many traditional Bedouin camps.

+ Related | Check out my Wadi Rum guide for inspiration, travel advice and all the essentials.

 

WADI RUM | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Wadi Rum

Where to stay in Wadi Rum | I stayed at Hasan Zawaideh Camp and had an excellent once in a lifetime experience. Make sure you check the link to see how awesome sleeping in a martian dome actually is.

Alternatively, search for accommodation in Wadi Rum on Booking.com.


Driving time | 1 – 2 hours

Distance | 74 kilometres from Aqaba to Wadi Rum

Wad Rum | Jordan Itinerary
Wadi Rum Desert | Jordan itinerary
Wadi Rum | 10 days in Jordan

DAY 4 – 5 | THE ANCIENT NABATEAN CITY OF PETRA

I’m pretty sure that the ancient Nabatean city of Petra is one of the key reasons why you’ve planned an adventurous road trip through Jordan, and it is easy to understand why.

Hidden between the rough mountains that encircle Wadi Musa lies Petra, an exceptional ancient city that is carved directly out of the sandstone rose-red rock formations that the area holds.

After a long period of being completely hidden for the western world, the mesmerizing archaeological site was eventually rediscovered by Swiss traveller Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812. For the above reason, Petra is often referred to as ‘The Lost City’.

At present, the former capital of the Nabataean empire is acknowledged as one of the new wonders of the world, and only a few words can describe how it feels when you first encounter the exquisite facade of Petra’s famous Treasury.

But it is not just the Treasury that put Petra on the map of travellers and adventure seekers alike.

Other incredible sights that are equally as impressive include the Monastery, the Royal Tombs, the Al Kubtha Trail, the Siq and the High Place of Sacrifice just to name a few.

To make the most out of your time in Petra, I’d recommend spending at least two days here to take it all in. Also, I highly advise visiting early in the morning (Petra opens at 06:00) to beat the crowds.

+ Related | Check out my Petra guide for inspiration, travel advice and all the essentials.

 

PETRA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Petra, Wadi Musa

Where to stay in Wadi Musa | I stayed at Town Season Hotel, a great budget-friendly hotel only a stone throws away from the Petra visitor centre. Prices and availability here.

Alternatively, search for accommodation in Petra on Booking.com.

How to get around Petra | Petra is best explored on foot, however, be prepared to walk a bunch. Also, please be aware to travel in a responsible and ethical manner, meaning you consider skipping transport by horse or donkey.


Driving time | 2 – 2,5 hours

Distance | 114 kilometres from Wadi Rum to Wadi Musa

Petra The Monastery | Jordan itinerary
Petra | Jordan itinerary
Petra | Jordan road trip itinerary

DAY 6 | UNWIND AT THE ICONIC DEAD SEA

Next up is the iconic Dead Sea, one of the most impressive natural phenomena in the country, and in my opinion an unmissable destination on any Jordan itinerary.

Unlike its name, the Dead Sea is actually more of a lake that is known for its incredibly high salinity, containing around 10 times more salt than any given ocean on earth.

As a result, it is impossible for organisms to inhabit the sea, hence its name ‘The Dead Sea’.

Also, the area is deemed to be the lowest point on earth, as it lies 400 metres below sea level.

In terms of location, the Dead Sea is perched between Jordan and Israel, at around 3,5 hours away from Wadi Musa, which is quite a drive. The good news though, it’s a damn scenic journey!

If you’re into photography, make sure you make a stop left of the Wadi Mujib Adventure Center, where you’ll find some pretty neat photography options, as well as some of the best salt formations.

Upon arrival in your hotel, I’d recommend heading straight to the beach for an unforgettable experience, namely swimming in the Dead Sea, or better said, floating in the Dead Sea.

Besides this quirky happening, there’s not much else going on around the Dead Sea, and therefore I recommend making your time here all about relaxing and sunbathing.

+ Read more | Check out my guide to the Dead Sea for inspiration, travel advice and the essentials.

 

THE DEAD SEA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | The Dead Sea

Where to stay near the Dead Sea | I stayed at Ramada Resort Dead Sea, a comfortable option located directly next to the Dead Sea. Prices and availability here.

Alternatively, search for accommodation near the Dead Sea on Booking.com.


Driving time | 3 – 3,5 hours

Distance | 205 kilometres from Wadi Musa to the Dead Sea

Dead Sea | Jordan itinerary
Dead Sea | Jordan road trip itinerary

DAY 7 – 9 | AMMAN, JORDAN’S BUSTLING CAPITAL CITY

After relaxing at the Dead Sea, it is time to move further north to Amman, Jordan’s lively capital.

Although Amman is significantly more chaotic than other destinations on this itinerary, I believe it’s a city of its own accord, with many interesting things to see, do and of course, taste.

I’ve personally spent two days here, one while staying at the phenomenal W Amman Hotel (this place is unreal, and so is the food), and one to uncover the many highlights that this energetic city has to offer. A brilliant combination that worked out perfectly fine for me.

All in all, Amman is definitely worthy of your visit, and given it is pretty compact in size and easy to navigate, the city is in my opinion a great introduction for first-time travellers to the Middle East.

 

AMMAN | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

The Amman Citadel | Situated high atop of the Jabal Al Qala’a hill is the Amman Citadel, an area rich in history that has been under the rule of many great civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Persians, and Greeks. If you have time to visit only one place while in Amman, make sure it’s the city’s time-worn citadel.

King Abdullah I Mosque | Though it is located slightly outside the city centre, the ornate King Abdullah I Mosque is an absolute must-see in Amman. Recognized by its vivid blue dome, the mosque is truly mesmerizing and can house up to 7.000 worshippers at a time. It is possible for non-Muslims to enter, but make sure to follow the religious customs.

The Roman Amphitheatre | With the capacity to house roughly 6.000 people, the Roman Amphitheatre is said to be the most impressive remnant of Roman Philadelphia, and it’s easy to see why. What’s even more impressive, is the fact that it is still in use for concerts and plays at present. Additionally, if you’ve managed to acquire a Jordan Pass, you’ll have entrance to the adjacent Folklore Museum.

+ Related | Check out my guide to Amman for inspiration, travel advice and all the essentials.

 

AMMAN | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Amman

Where to stay in Amman | I stayed at W Amman and it is safe to say that it is my most luxurious travel experience I’ve had to date. Make sure you check it out here.

Alternatively, search for accommodation in Amman on Booking.com.


Driving time | 1 hour

Distance | 50 kilometres from The Dead Sea to Amman

Amman Citadel | Jordan itinerary
Amman | Jordan road trip itinerary
The Roman Amphitheatre Amman | Jordan itinerary

DAY TRIP | THE ROMAN RUINS OF JERASH

The Roman ruins of Jerash are located only an hour away from Amman and are therefore easily visited as part of a self-drive day trip.

Often referred to as the ‘Pompeii of the East’, Jerash is acknowledged as the best-preserved Greco-Roman city outside of Italy, and believe me, it is truly a delight to behold.

As a result, Jerash is extremely popular among travellers and locals alike, making it the second most visited tourist destination in Jordan – behind Petra, obviously!

That said, the interior of Jerash is absolutely breathtaking, and some sights that I highly suggest visiting include the Arch of Hadrian, the Temple of Artemis, Oval Square and the Northern Theatre among many others.

Though Jerash was high on my list of things to see in Jordan, I, unfortunately, planned way too little time to fully explore the extensive archaeological site. Therefore, I advise planning at least four hours to explore in a relaxing manner.

Related | Check out my guide to Jerash for inspiration, travel advice and all the essentials.

 

JERASH | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Jerash

Cost | Entrance fee 10 JOD ($14,10) – free with the Jordan Pass


Driving time | 1 hour

Distance | 50 kilometres from Amman to Jerash

Jerash | Jordan itinerary
Jerash day trip | Jordan itinerary
Ancient city of Jerash | Jordan itinerary

DAY 10 | TIME TO LEAVE JORDAN

After 10 incredible days in Jordan, where you’ve discovered incredible landscapes, ancient architectural masterpieces, and everything in between, it is time to pack your stuff and head for the airport.

Whether you need to drive back to Aqaba or Amman, your last moments in Jordan are all about heading home, so it is a full day of travelling anyhow.

However, one thing I like to spare you is a long exhausting drive back from Amman to Aqaba on the day of your outbound flight.

I personally opted to leave Jordan by plane from the Queen Alia International Airport in Aqaba, but would have done this part of my itinerary differently if I had to do it again – epic fail.

For that reason, I believe it is best to book separate flights, especially if spending your final 6 hours in Jordan behind the wheel isn’t your way to end this awesome road trip.

Petra The Treasury | Jordan itinerary
Wadi Rum | Jordan road trip

JORDAN ITINERARY | TRAVEL ESSENTIALS AND TIPS


ACCOMMODATION | WHERE TO STAY IN JORDAN

Jordan is hands down among the most popular travel destinations of the last few years, meaning you’ll be delighted to find awesome accommodation here too.

Through the course of my Jordan itinerary, I was surprised by a broad variety of excellent accommodation options, suitable for pretty much every travel style and budget.

Whether you’re after a budget-friendly hostel, family-run apartment, authentic Bedouin tent, or luxurious high-end hotel – like this unique Martian experience in the heart of the desert, there are simply endless options available.

In terms of budget, it is completely up to you, with costs varying anywhere between €20 – €200 per night, depending on your personal requirements.

 

BOOKING.COM

As a solo adventure traveller, my favourite website to search for accommodation is booking.com.

Not only is it home to a broad selection of accommodation, but it’s also user-friendly, and offers options that suit any budget.

Also, you can cancel your booking at any given time, without any extra cost – perfect if you like (or dislike) a place and wish to change your travel plans accordingly.

If I made you enthusiastic to travel to Jordan, make sure you explore the many accommodation options on booking.com.

Jordan itinerary | Where to stay
Where to stay in Jordan

WEATHER IN JORDAN | BEST TIME TO VISIT JORDAN

Given Jordan almost entirely consists of desert landscapes, the country is rather tricky in terms of weather.

For that reason, it is good to note that Jordan can be scorching hot during the peak summer months, while at the same time, it is freezing cold during the winter months.

Depending on what you’re looking for, I believe the best time to visit Jordan is from early March to late May, especially if you’re bent on exploring Jordan’s most popular points of calls, including Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea.

However, if you wish to uncover the Red Sea’s lively underwater world, or work on your tan on a sun lounger next to it, the summer months of June to September might be the better option for you.

I followed this Jordan road trip itinerary in March and had excellent weather to tick the sights I wished to visit off my bucket list.

One thing that is worth mentioning though, is that despite the pleasant temperature during the days, the nights often become pretty chilly, specifically in the desert. So make sure you pack at least one pair of trousers and a comfy hoodie!

TRANSPORT | HOW TO GET AROUND JORDAN

CAR | HOW TO GET AROUND JORDAN

Jordan is a true spectacle in terms of rough, mystic landscapes, and by renting a car you easily experience the absolute best of this exceptional feature.

Not only is a rental the easiest way to uncover Jordan, but it also provides the ultimate freedom to travel at your own pace, not to mention that it means you’ll be driving through the most incredible landscapes too.

Another great thing about driving in Jordan is the fact that most of the roads are actually in excellent condition, plus it is pretty cheap to fill up your tank.

Meaning Jordan is made out of all the good stuff that make a road trip, a ROAD TRIP.

For car rental in Jordan, I highly recommend Rentalcars.com. They offer brilliant service, additional insurance options (which is not an unnecessary luxury in Jordan), as well as a wide selection of cars to choose from. Prices and availability here.

Jordan road trip itinerary
Jordan itinerary | Where the Souls Wander

HOW TO GET TO JORDAN

FLIGHTS | HOW TO GET TO JORDAN

Though Jordan is a relatively compact country, it is home to two excellent international airports.

However, most flights arrive at the Queen Alia International Airport, situated around 30 kilometres south of Amman, the capital city of Jordan.

Alternatively, there is the King Hussein International Airport, located only a 10-minute drive away from Aqaba. I noticed that this option was significantly cheaper for flights from Europe.

Both airports are well kept and host a great variety of international flights, including those from major hubs in Europe, North Africa, North America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

For flights to Jordan, I would highly advise the use of Skyscanner. Not only is their website super easy to use, but they also offer a large selection of airlines – plus the possibility to find good rates.

In my opinion, both cities are equally as good to start your Jordan road trip itinerary, as they both provide car rental pickup and dropoff services.

SAFETY IN JORDAN | TRAVEL INSURANCE

When travelling this big wide world, I never go on an adventure without my essential travel insurance sorted out, and though I felt completely safe in Jordan, I recommend anyone travelling here to do the same.

Though you rather don’t think about the things that could go wrong, there’s always a chance that it might happen, and when that’s the case, it is better to be safe than sorry.

To help you find the right policy, I’ve listed two of my favourite options below:

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

PLAN YOUR JORDAN ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES


Jordan Photography | Where the Souls Wander

42 Incredible photos that will inspire you to visit Jordan

Here is my photography story of Jordan, an incredible country that captivated me with its unrivalled nature.


In terms of sheer natural beauty, Jordan will always be a topic of conversation.

Jordan holds some of the most impressive natural phenomenons in the world. Think of the moon-like dunes of Wadi Rum, the extraordinary Dead Sea, and Jordan’s largest natural reserve: the Dana Biosphere Reserve.

Yet there is only one thing that comes to a travellers mind when they think of Jordan, and that is the ancient city of Petra. Poised between the dry desert and towering mountains is an ancient Nabatean city, entirely carved out of sandstone, and easily one of the most enchanting places I’ve ever seen.

But Jordan is way more than its number-one attraction. I’ve spent time, wandering through the narrow streets of downtown Amman, I explored the well-preserved remnants of the Roman ruins in Jerash, and roamed around the rippled sand dunes of Wadi Rum, all with camera in hand.

To present the best possible look and feel of this captivating country, I share with you my Jordan photography story – a collection of 42 photos that inspire you to visit Jordan.

42 PHOTOS THAT WILL INSPIRE YOU TO VISIT JORDAN


THE ANCIENT CITY OF PETRA AND SURROUNDS

Only a few UNESCO heritage sites come close to the ancient city of Petra in terms of mysterious, ancient structures.

The charm that defines Petra is realized by ancient temples, carved out of red-rose sandstone, and despite the crowds, it’s one of the most exhilarating things to see on a Jordan itinerary.

Petra the Monastery Jordan photography
Photos that will inspire you to visit Jordan
Petra Jordan photography
The monastery Petra travel photography
Petra by night photography
Treasury from above Jordan photography
The Sig Petra Jordan
The treasury Petra Jordan
Petra photography Jordan
Petra Jordan travel
Petra Jordan travel 1
The Monastery in Petra Jordan
Petra travel photography

THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF DOWNTOWN AMMAN

Downtown Amman has no shortage of rustic, narrow laneways, bustling bazaars, the characteristic smell of fresh herbs & spices, and the most impressive points of interest – a true delight to any curious wanderer.

At first, the city felt pretty overwhelming, but once I got my bearings, Amman slowly revealed that it holds beauty around every corner.

Make sure you’ll give Amman a well-deserved chance before travelling to your next destination – the city has a great number of impressive things to see and do.

Amman Citadel | Jordan travel photography
Ummayad Palace | Jordan photography
Downtown Amman in Jordan
Roman theatre downtown Amman | Photography inspiration
Amman Mosque photography inspiration
Ummayad Palace in Jordan
Amman Citadel | Travel photography
Amman Jordan photography

THE DEAD SEA, JORDAN’S UNIQUE NATURAL PHENOMENON

The Dead Sea is one of the most fascinating encounters between land and sea, yet it is something else that makes the sea so unique.

With almost 10 times the amount of salt as the ocean, the Dead Sea is often referred to as an extraordinary natural phenomenon.

As a result of the high salinity, travellers get invited to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience: the chance to float on the water of the Dead Sea. What more can I say?

Dead Sea in Jordan
Jordan travel photography
Dead sea photography Jordan
Dead sea travel photography

THE MOON-LIKE DUNES OF WADI RUM

Situated in the midst of the Arabian desert is the Wadi Rum, a majestic, extensive scenery that is famed for its red rippled sand dunes and enormous, scenic rock formations.

If you’re in for an off the beaten path adventure, jump aboard a jeep and roam around the iconic Wadi Rum desert, which is often called ‘The Valley of the Moon’.

To me, Wadi Rum is unrivalled regarding sheer natural beauty, and one of the most unearthly sceneries in the world.

Wadi Rum photography
Wadi Rum desert in Jordan
Wadi Rum travel photography
Wadi Rum pictures
Where the Souls Wander travel photography
Where the Souls Wander Jordan
Jordan travel photography journal
Travel photography journal
Wadi Rum desert
Where the Souls Wander Jordan

THE ROMAN RUINS OF JERASH

Known today as the largest and best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy is Jerash: an ancient archaeological site that is incredibly picturesque and definitely worthy of your visit.

Jerash is in fact, the second most popular site in Jordan, right after Petra.

Make sure you visit the ruins of Jerash as a day trip from Amman – it’s only a 1-hour drive and trust me, it won’t disappoint.

Jerash travel photography
Jerash Jordan travel photography
Jerash Jordan photography
Ruins of Jerash Jordan travel
Jerash Jordan
Jerash travel pictures
Jerash ruins in Jordan

THE TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR THAT I USED IN JORDAN

Jordan’s natural beauty is unrivalled, and if you want to make the most of your travel photography while exploring Jordan, I’d recommend investing in some serious photography gear.

If you like my travel photography, this is the gear I used the document my Jordan photography story.

Lumix G85 | The Lumix G85 captures excellent photos and video – plus it doesn’t break the bank.

SIGMA 16mm, F1.4 | The SIGMA 16mm is well-known for its excellent depth of field and is one of the best budget prime lenses on the market.

DJI Mavic Air | The DJI Mavic Air is a brilliant drone that is compact and produces the most incredible aerial footage. In my opinion, the perfect combination to document travel photography.

Although flying a drone in Jordan is legal, do keep in mind to follow the official regulations.

PLAN YOUR JORDAN ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES



A guide to the Jerash Ruins

A complete guide to the ruins of Jerash, Jordan

Jerash is known as the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy.

Located just an hour from Amman, the ruins of Jerash come in right after Petra as the second most popular site in Jordan, making it a perfect day trip from Amman.

When you pay a visit to Jerash you won’t get disappointed, many people think it is as impressive as the Roman ruins in Athens or Rome.

If you are interested in a different cultural side of Jordan, make sure you pay a visit to one of Jordan’s hidden gems.

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE RUINS OF JERASH, JORDAN


ONE OF THE HIDDEN GEMS IN JORDAN

Jerash is the second most visited place in Jordan, after Petra. As one of the best Roman ruins, you will experience a totally different side of Jordan. Although it is one of the hidden gems in Jordan, it also is one of the largest and best-preserved sites of Roman architecture in the world. Jerash will be a perfect addition to any kind of road trip through Jordan.

HOW TO GET TO JERASH, JORDAN


CAR
| The journey from Amman to Jerash takes just under an hour if you travel by car. During this short drive, you will see how the beautiful vast landscape of Jordan presents itself.


BUS
| You can also take the bus from the North Terminal Bus Station in Amman. Bus rides in Jordan are really affordable, a one way trip from Amman to Jerash will cost you around one dinar.

JERASH ENTRANCE FEE

When it comes to entering the Jerash Roman ruins you will have to pay an entrance fee of 12 dinar. This includes your entrance to the archaeological museum. The site opens at 7:30 and closes at 7:00 pm.

While entering the site you pass through a small souq where you have the opportunity to buy food, drinks and make use of the free restrooms.

If you purchased a Jordan pass online, the entrance to Jerash will be free.

THE ROMAN RUINS OF JERASH

With an amazing blend of Greco-Roman and Oriental influences, the ruins are really worth the visit. Explore buildings like the Hadrian’s Gate, the Hippodrome or places like the Zeus temple or temple of Artemis. When walking around the site you will also find a really good preserved theatre. As one of the hidden gems, Jerash was one of our highlights while discovering Jordan.

SAFETY IN JORDAN | TRAVEL INSURANCE

When travelling this big wide world, I never go on an adventure without my essential travel insurance sorted out, and though I felt completely safe in Jordan, I recommend anyone travelling here to do the same.

Though you rather don’t think about the things that could go wrong, there’s always a chance that it might happen, and when that’s the case, it is better to be safe than sorry.

To help you find the right policy, I’ve listed two of my favourite options below:

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

PLAN YOUR JORDAN ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES



A guide to the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan

A travellers guide to Wadi Rum, Jordan’s otherworldly desert

Wadi Rum is an iconic desert area and UNESCO World Heritage site in Jordan. Many travellers come here for a jeep trip, camel ride and to spend a night in one of the traditional Bedouin camps. With 720 square kilometers, the Wadi Rum is a protected area and is considered as one of the driest and largest deserts in the world. Wadi Rum literally means the ‘Valley of Sand’ or the ‘Roman Valley’ and is also called ‘Valley of the Moon’.

Keep reading this guide as we will tell you more about the majestic Wadi Rum desert, which will help you create your own itinerary.

A TRAVELLERS GUIDE TO THE WADI RUM DESERT, JORDAN


DISCOVER MARS ON EARTH

Once you visit this iconic dessert, you’ll understand why the Wadi Rum is also known as Mars on Earth. Our visit to the Sahara desert in Morocco was already breathtaking, but our visit to Wadi Rum was next level because it has one of the best cosmic views on Earth! Picture this: in addition to red coloured sand, you’ll find white sand and every colour in between. You’ll experience unbroken silence on sand dunes while walking among the red sandstone canyons.

Fact | Wadi Rum is featured in a lot of movies that kicked off tourism. The area is used for the first time in 1962 for the movie Lawrence of Arabia, after that, it is also used for films as Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009), Prometheus (2012), Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016) and not to be missed: The Martian (2015) starring Matt Damon.

EXPLORING THE ICONIC WADI RUM DESERT

We chose to arrive early in the morning at our desert camp and we immediately felt welcomed in this beautiful and quiet scenery. The desert camp where we stayed organized several kinds of tours. We did a 4-hour tour with a 4×4 Toyota jeep and started at the place where The Martian was filmed. From this vantage point, the Wadi Rum opens up before you. Along the way we stopped at many places and we only had to knock on the ceiling of the jeep if we wanted to stop somewhere.

We recommend you to not share a jeep. This gives you the freedom to stop at places off the beaten track and time to wander around the valleys. While exploring the area we realized that these valleys have been formed over thousands of years to become the unique, magical landscape that it is now.

Tip | Layer up! At the end of the day it can be chilly, so don’t forget to bring a jacket and a scarf. Make sure you will pack enough water, food, sunscreen and something to cover your head and eyes during the day.

WANDERING AROUND WADI RUM

During our jeep tour, we saw the massive development of desert camps since this conflict-free Middle East country is getting more popular every day. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your space suit and discover this magical place like you are an astronaut at Mars on Earth.

At the end of our jeep tour, we wandered around our camp and found a good spot to watch sunset. Make sure you will stand on a mountain with your face to the west for the best twilight experience. When the soft glowing light from the sky is below the horizon, the rock formations turn into fire and the sand is changing into the moon landscape.

STARGAZING AT WADI RUM

After dinner, the people at the camp played some traditional music on their instruments, but we chose to enjoy the sky full of bright stars. What an indescribably beautiful experience! We liked the peaceful atmosphere and saw the stars without using a stargazer. This is possible because there is no light pollution from the cities. Spending the night in Wadi Rum will give you that unique Bedouin experience.

Tip | If you want to spend the night under the stars in the Wadi Rum, we recommend booking at least three months in advance. Due to the popularity, dates are often sold out quickly. Look on Booking.com to check the availability and find places with various rates.

WHERE TO STAY IN WADI RUM

There are many desert camps to spend the night in Wadi Rum: from normal tents to luxurious bubble tents, from Bedouin homestays to camps. You can even sleep under the stars in a cave. We chose to stay at the Hasan Zawaideh Camp to have the ultimate Martian experience and booked a bubble tent, better known as a “Martian Dome”. You probably have seen the bubble tents in travel magazines or on social media.

The Martian Dome at this camp is one of the most unique places to spend the night in Wadi Rum. Each dome is air-conditioned and has a heater for colder nights. When booking a dome, you also have your own bathroom with a shower and a toilet. From inside the dome, you will have a panoramic view of the beautiful desert.

Tip | If you sleep in a Bedouin tent, take precautions by bringing warm clothes for the night.

HOW TO GET TO WADI RUM, JORDAN

When we drove from Aqaba to Wadi Rum with our rental car, the landscape turned into rock formations, red desert dunes and soft orange sand on the road. Amazing how quickly the landscape changed in to another world.

It only takes one hour to travel from Aqaba to Wadi Rum and there are many ways to reach the desert. From Amman, it will take around 3,5 hours and from Petra, it will be 1,5 hours. A convenient way is to arrange a bus tour, get a taxi or hire a car.

Unfortunately, public transport is very limited and you are tied to fixed times to get back and forth.

HOW TO GET AROUND WADI RUM

You can discover Wadi Rum by yourself, but we recommend you to take a (local) guide to get the most out of your trip. A guide can show you the hotspots and will tell you more about this amazing, historical landscape. Especially when you only spend one or two days, we think you will see as much as possible when travelling by jeep. It’s also possible to discover the desert by camel or horse.

You can book different kind of tours at the Wadi Rum visitors centre, desert camps or home stays. To save money while having the ultimate Wadi Rum experience, you can do a hike by yourself. Pin your hotspots with the application Maps.me which also helps you not getting lost. From the Wadi Rum visitors centre, you can follow many hiking trials.

Tip | If you have a Jordan Pass, you don’t have to pay the entrance fee of 5 JOD and children under 12 years are free of charge. The Jordan Pass will give you a lot of benefits during your stay in Jordan.

SAFETY IN JORDAN | TRAVEL INSURANCE

When travelling this big wide world, I never go on an adventure without my essential travel insurance sorted out, and though I felt completely safe in Jordan, I recommend anyone travelling here to do the same.

Though you rather don’t think about the things that could go wrong, there’s always a chance that it might happen, and when that’s the case, it is better to be safe than sorry.

To help you find the right policy, I’ve listed two of my favourite options below:

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

PLAN YOUR JORDAN ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES



A guide to the Dead Sea in Jordan

A guide to the Dead Sea, Jordan's unique natural phenomena

Floating in the Dead Sea is an experience you can’t miss when travelling through Jordan. With almost 10 times more salt than in the ocean it is impossible not to float. Even though it is called the Dead Sea it is actually a salt lake located in between Jordan and Israel. the Dead Sea is known as the lowest point on earth at around 400m below sea level. Besides floating in the sea, you would also like to chase some of the best salt formations of the area.

Take a look at this guide and find everything you need to know about visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan.

AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO THE DEAD SEA IN JORDAN


FLOATING IN THE DEAD SEA

With a water density that is way higher than every ocean on earth, it is impossible not to float. With a salinity of 342g/kg, it is one of the world’s saltiest lakes. Floating in the sea is really a strange but fun experience if you keep the following things in mind;

Don’t splash the water or get it in your eyes

Wear something on your feet

Don’t shave a few days before getting in the water

Get out of the water after 15 minutes

Wash of the salty water afterwards

Bring a bottle of water

FACTS ABOUT THE DEAD SEA

The Dead Sea is called ‘dead’ because the circumstances make it impossible for fish and plants to live in it. At around 400m below sea level it is the lowest point on earth and exploring along the road causes your ears to pop a couple of times. Legend has it that the Dead Sea is shrinking around 1 meter a year caused by various reasons. So take your chance to experience the magic of this natural healing environment before it is too late.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF THE DEAD SEA, JORDAN

The Dead Sea is one of the earth’s best places for natural healing. It is famous for having various health benefits. The water is rich in minerals and that is good for your skin. The salt and minerals from the sea can treat hives, cellulite, acne and psoriasis. The water also helps people with joint problems and rheumatoid arthritis.

As the lowest point on earth, the UV radiation is also lower, which makes this place even better for natural healing.

HOTELS AT THE DEAD SEA AREA IN JORDAN

Staying in the Dead Sea area will cost you a lot more money than in other parts of Jordan. You can find a lot of high-end luxury hotels on the shore of the Dead Sea. Most of them have a private beach where you can cover your body in mud and have a swim in the sea. During our stay at the Dead Sea we chose to stay at The Ramada Resort by Wyndham. It usually has a good rate even though it is a luxury hotel. To find the best spots to make pictures we recommend you to explore the cliffs along the road instead of visiting the private beaches.

Find hotels at The Dead Sea

WHERE TO FIND THE BEST SALT FORMATIONS AT THE DEAD SEA IN JORDAN

When driving the Jordan Valley Highway you will find several cliffs where you can find mesmerizing salt formations. You can recognize them by the teal coloured water surrounding the edges. To get to the salt formations you have to do some effort. It is often hiking and climbing along the cliffs but once you reach the formations you will be really satisfied. Some of the best formations are found left of the Wadi Mujib Adventure Center.

SAFETY IN JORDAN | TRAVEL INSURANCE

When travelling this big wide world, I never go on an adventure without my essential travel insurance sorted out, and though I felt completely safe in Jordan, I recommend anyone travelling here to do the same.

Though you rather don’t think about the things that could go wrong, there’s always a chance that it might happen, and when that’s the case, it is better to be safe than sorry.

To help you find the right policy, I’ve listed two of my favourite options below:

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

PLAN YOUR JORDAN ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES