Overview
Few destinations combine ancient history and spectacular landscapes like Jordan. This classic route links lively Amman, the rose-red wonders of Petra, Bedouin camps in the Wadi Rum desert, and a float in the hyper-salty waters of the Dead Sea.
Best time to visit
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer ideal conditions: warm days, cool nights, and far fewer crowds than the summer high season. Winter can be chilly, especially at higher elevations, and the desert can get cold after dark.
Suggested day-by-day
- Days 1–2: Arrive in Amman. Explore the citadel, Roman Theatre, lively Rainbow Street, and sample mezze in the city’s cafes.
- Day 3: Day trip to Jerash for stunning Roman ruins; detour to Ajloun Castle or Umm Qais if time allows.
- Day 4: Take the King’s Highway south. Visit Madaba (mosaics) and Mount Nebo, then descend to the Dead Sea for a float.
- Days 5–6: Continue to Petra. Spend two days exploring the Siq, Treasury, Royal Tombs, and hike up to the Monastery or the High Place of Sacrifice.
- Days 7–8: Journey to Wadi Rum for an overnight Bedouin camp, desert jeep tour, and stargazing in the dramatic landscape.
- Day 9: Return to Amman via Aqaba (Red Sea) for a seafood lunch or quick snorkelling stop en route to the capital.
Practical tips
Purchase a Jordan Pass online in advance – it covers your visa fee and entry to Petra and most key sites. Hiring a car offers flexibility, but local drivers and small group tours are popular and efficient. In Wadi Rum, choose a reputable Bedouin-run camp for a more authentic stay. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Tap water isn’t potable; stick to bottled or filtered water throughout your trip.