Jordan is renowned for its strong tradition of hospitality, as well as awe-inspiring monuments and landmarks that tell the story of its ancient history. Widely known as one of the safest destinations in the Middle East, the country offers an appealing mix of traditional and modern. In the capital, Amman, you'll find ancient ruins alongside upscale malls and a bustling nightlife scene. It makes a convenient base for tours to see the antiquities for which the country is famous. Head a few hours north to the ancient city of Jerash, or a few hours south to the ultra-popular Petra, where you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Siq and the Treasury. You'll also want to spend some time in Wadi Rum, a protected desert landscape (and the ancestral home of the Bedouin people) that's filled with red dunes and sandstone escarpments. Other highlights include the Mujib Nature Reserve on the Dead Seawhere travelers can bob about in the salty, mineral-rich waterand the Gulf of Aqaba on the Red Sea, home to lovely beaches, popular scuba diving sites, and the port where cruise ships dock. For stunning valley views head to the top Mount Nebo, or join a tour to Madaba to get your fix of biblical history.
Jordan is most popular in the spring and fall, when days are sunny and warm and evenings are pleasantly cool. Temperatures hover around 77°F (25°C) during these seasons, offering ideal conditions for exploring archaeological sites (including Petra) and nature reserves. Big annual events such as the Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival in February—a celebration of Bedouin culture and crafts—also attract visitors.
Jordan’s public transportation is pretty limited. In Amman, use the metered green-and-yellow cabs or ride-sharing apps. To travel between cities, you can take public buses—which leave when they’re full—or shared service taxis. Alternatively, book a seat with a private bus company like JETT buses, which also offers long-distance routes around the country. For a more comfortable trip (and more flexibility), you can rent a car or—if you’re a nervous driver—hire a driver or book private tours. If you’re traveling between Amman and Aqaba, you can also take a domestic flight.
If you’re taking a cab anywhere in Jordan, be aware that women shouldn’t sit in the passenger front seat next to a male driver—it’s considered impolite. Also, try to avoid cab trips (or any driving) during the morning or evening rush hours. Congestion at these times can be nightmarish and chaotic, and you’ll likely encounter long delays with the meter ticking and lot of stress (whether you’re riding in a cab or driving a rental car).
Jordan is most famous for its natural heritage, from the otherworldly canyons and sand dunes of Wadi Rum to the Red Sea coastline and the salt-filled Dead Sea. Added to that, you’ll find one of the world’s most interesting archaeological sites, the rock-cut, rose-colored city of Petra.
...MoreDesignated as one of the new seven wonders of the world, the ancient Nabataean capital of Petra—carved from rose-colored canyons in the desert—remains Jordan’s most popular destination. It’s a sprawling site that takes time to cover; some people rent mules or horses. Admission tickets grant visitors access over two days.
...MoreIf you’re looking to make a speedy trip to Petra or Wadi Rum, then a few days is enough. That said, anyone who spends a week or more traveling around Jordan gets to spend more time off the beaten track and interacting with local communities.
...MoreVisitors flock to Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, but that means the verdant and historical north—filled with lush nature preserves, ancient archaeological sites, and welcoming local communities— is left off most itineraries. Hiking opportunities abound, while attractions include the Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash and panoramic 12th-century Ajloun Castle.
...MoreWhen in Jordan, follow the same guidance as you would in any Muslim or conservative-leaning country by wearing loose-fitting clothing and not showing much skin. Be respectful of local cultures, especially during prayer times and the holy month of Ramadan, when it’s best not to eat or drink in public.
...MoreJordan is one of the safest countries to visit in the Middle East. The rate of violent crime is low and locals are famous for their friendly and welcoming dispositions. You’ll even find plenty of solo female travelers. That said, it’s always a good idea to exercise basic precautions.
...MoreNumber of Attractions | 34 |
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Number of Tours | 1,603 |
Number of Reviews | 11,288 |
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