Jordan is a land of extraordinary contrasts — where rose-red Petra rises from desert canyons, Bedouin traditions thrive alongside modern cities, and the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea draw visitors from around the world. From the mystical Wadi Rum to the Crusader castles of the north, Jordan offers an immersive journey through millennia of civilization.
Highlights & Experiences
Quick Facts
| Capital | Amman |
|---|---|
| Currency | Jordanian Dinar (JOD) |
| Language | Arabic (English widely spoken) |
| Time Zone | GMT+3 |
| Flight Time | ~11–13 hrs from East Coast US |
| Entry | Jordan Pass includes visa + Petra |
Why Jordan?
- Home to Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
- Remarkably safe and welcoming to international travelers
- Float in the Dead Sea — a bucket-list experience like no other
- Incredible Roman ruins at Jerash that rival those in Rome
- Authentic Bedouin culture and desert hospitality in Wadi Rum
- Compact enough to see major highlights in 7–10 days
- Jordan Pass offers outstanding value covering visa and 40+ attractions
- Diverse landscapes: desert, mountains, canyons, and sea coast
Your 5-Day Itinerary
Amman Arrival & City Exploration
- Check into hotel in Rainbow Street neighborhood
- Visit the Citadel and Jordan Archaeological Museum
- Explore the Roman Theatre in downtown Amman
- Evening stroll through Jabal Amman and dinner at a local meze restaurant
Jerash & Ajloun Castle
- Morning drive to Jerash — arrive before the crowds
- Explore the Forum, Cardo Maximus, and Temple of Artemis
- Visit Ajloun Castle, a 12th-century Ayyubid fortress
- Return to Amman for the night
Petra — The Lost City
- Early morning drive to Petra (3 hours from Amman)
- Walk the Siq canyon to reach the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
- Explore the Street of Facades, Royal Tombs, and Monastery
- Watch sunset over Petra from the High Place of Sacrifice
Wadi Rum Desert Adventure
- Drive into Wadi Rum — check into a Bedouin desert camp
- Jeep safari through red sand dunes and dramatic rock formations
- Camel ride at sunset in the valley of the moon
- Sleep under a canopy of stars at a luxury desert camp
Dead Sea & Departure
- Morning drive to the Dead Sea (about 3 hours from Wadi Rum)
- Float in the hypersaline waters and apply mineral mud
- Spa treatments at a Dead Sea resort
- Transfer to Amman for evening departure
Insider Travel Tips
Buy the Jordan Pass
It covers your visa fee + entry to Petra and 40+ attractions. Buy online before you arrive.
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques and conservative areas. Lightweight layers work perfectly.
Ramadan Timing
If visiting during Ramadan, be respectful of fasting hours. Many restaurants close during the day but evenings are festive.
Stay Hydrated
Jordan's desert climate is intense — carry at least 2 liters of water daily when touring Petra and Wadi Rum.
When to Visit
Spring (Mar–May)
Ideal temperatures 15–25°C, wildflowers in bloom, and lighter crowds. Perfect for hiking Petra and Dana Reserve.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Very hot (35–40°C in Wadi Rum). Manageable with early morning starts; Dead Sea resorts are popular.
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Excellent conditions return — warm days, cool evenings, and great for outdoor adventures.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Cool and sometimes rainy. Amman can get snow. Petra is magical and nearly crowd-free.
Ready to Plan Your Jordan Journey?
Let Jay and Elizabeth Nichols craft your perfect itinerary, from hidden gems to iconic moments.
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