The Jordan Pass: 8 useful tips to get you going (2022 update)
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.
#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.
#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.
#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.
#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.
#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.
#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.
#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.
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 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
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
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
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
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
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.
JORDAN ITINERARY | TRAVEL ESSENTIALS AND TIPS
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.
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.
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
PLAN YOUR JORDAN ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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 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