Is Jordan Good for Tourists? A Comprehensive Guide

Jordan, a country rich in history and natural beauty, offers an array of experiences that cater to all types of travelers. From the ancient wonders of Petra to the stunning landscapes of Wadi Rum and the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, Jordan promises a memorable journey. This comprehensive itinerary will guide you through the best of Jordan, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

Day 1: Arrival in Amman

1.1 Arrival and Accommodation

Arrive in Amman, Jordan’s vibrant capital, and check into your hotel. Recommended hotels include:

• Four Seasons Hotel Amman: Offers luxury accommodations and excellent amenities.
• Amman Rotana: A modern hotel providing comfortable stays and central location.
• Jordan Tower Hotel: A budget-friendly option with a central location.

1.2 Explore Amman

• Roman Theatre: Start your exploration with this well-preserved ancient Roman theatre located in the heart of Amman. It offers insights into the city’s historical significance.
• Citadel Hill (Jabal al-Qal’a): Visit the Citadel, where you can explore the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

1.3 Dinner in Amman

• Hashem Restaurant: Enjoy traditional Jordanian dishes like falafel and hummus at this popular local eatery.
• Sufra Restaurant: Offers a more upscale dining experience with a focus on Jordanian cuisine.

Day 2: Amman to Jerash and Ajloun

2.1 Visit Jerash

• Jerash Ruins: Depart early for Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy. Explore the Oval Plaza, the Cardo Maximus, the Temple of Artemis, and the Roman Theatre.

2.2 Lunch in Jerash

• Jerash Resthouse: A good spot for a quick lunch offering local and international dishes.

2.3 Head to Ajloun

• Ajloun Castle: Travel to Ajloun to visit this 12th-century fortress built by the Ayyubid dynasty. The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

2.4 Return to Amman

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Return to Amman for dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel’s dining option.

Day 3: Amman to Madaba and Mount Nebo

3.1 Visit Madaba

• Madaba Mosaic Map: Explore the famous Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land located in St. George’s Church.
• Madaba Archaeological Museum: Learn about the region’s history through a range of artifacts and exhibits.

3.2 Lunch in Madaba

• Haret Jdoudna: A traditional restaurant offering a variety of Jordanian dishes in a charming setting.

3.3 Head to Mount Nebo

• Mount Nebo: Visit this historic site where Moses is believed to have seen the Promised Land. The site offers panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea.

3.4 Continue to the Dead Sea

• Check into a Dead Sea Resort: Arrive at your resort by the Dead Sea for a relaxing evening. Recommended resorts include:
• Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea
• Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa
• Movenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea

3.5 Relax at the Dead Sea

• Evening at the Dead Sea: Enjoy a float in the mineral-rich waters and relax at your resort.

Day 4: Dead Sea to Petra

4.1 Morning at the Dead Sea

• Dead Sea Beach: Spend the morning enjoying the unique experience of floating in the Dead Sea and applying therapeutic mud.

4.2 Depart for Petra

• Travel to Petra: Drive to Petra, with the journey taking approximately 2.5 hours. Check into your hotel in Petra. Recommended options include:
• Petra Marriott Hotel
• Petra Guest House
• Movenpick Resort Petra

4.3 Evening at Petra

• Petra by Night: If available, participate in the Petra by Night tour, which offers a magical experience of walking through the Siq to the Treasury, illuminated by candles.

Day 5: Explore Petra

5.1 Full Day in Petra

• Main Attractions: Spend the entire day exploring Petra. Key highlights include:
• The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): The iconic facade carved into the rock face.
• The Monastery (Ad-Deir): A grand monument located at the top of a steep climb.
• The Roman Theatre: A well-preserved theatre with seating for up to 4,000 spectators.
• The Royal Tombs: A series of impressive tombs carved into the cliffs.

5.2 Lunch in Petra

• The Basin Restaurant: Located inside Petra, offering a variety of local and international dishes.

5.3 Evening at Petra

• Dinner at Your Hotel: Return to your hotel for dinner or explore local dining options in Wadi Musa.

Day 6: Petra to Wadi Rum

6.1 Depart for Wadi Rum

• Travel to Wadi Rum: Drive to Wadi Rum, known for its dramatic desert landscapes. Check into a desert camp for an authentic Bedouin experience. Recommended camps include:
• Sun City Camp
• Wadi Rum Night Luxury Camp
• Bedouin Lifestyle Camp

6.2 Explore Wadi Rum

• 4x4 Jeep Safari: Take a guided jeep tour to explore the stunning desert landscape, including sand dunes, rock formations, and ancient petroglyphs.
• Camel Ride: Experience a traditional camel ride through the desert.

6.3 Dinner and Stargazing

• Dinner at the Camp: Enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner prepared over an open fire.
• Stargazing: Wadi Rum offers spectacular stargazing opportunities. Relax around the campfire and marvel at the clear desert skies.

Day 7: Wadi Rum to Aqaba

7.1 Morning in Wadi Rum

• Sunrise in the Desert: Witness a breathtaking desert sunrise.
• Explore More: If time permits, enjoy additional activities or explore further.

7.2 Depart for Aqaba

• Travel to Aqaba: Drive to Aqaba, Jordan’s Red Sea resort city. Check into your hotel. Recommended hotels include:
• InterContinental Aqaba Resort
• Kempinski Hotel Aqaba
• Movenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba

7.3 Explore Aqaba

• Relax on the Beach: Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the city’s attractions.

7.4 Dinner in Aqaba

• Local Dining Options: Try local seafood at restaurants such as:
• Red Sea Grill
• The Royal Yacht Club

Day 8: Aqaba and Departure

8.1 Enjoy Aqaba

• Snorkeling or Diving: Experience the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea with snorkeling or diving excursions.
• Explore Aqaba: Visit local markets, shops, and historical sites.

8.2 Return to Amman

• Travel Back to Amman: Drive back to Amman for your departure. The journey takes approximately 4 hours.

8.3 Departure

• Final Preparations: Depending on your flight time, you may have the chance for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Amman before heading to the airport.

Additional Tips

1. Packing Essentials

• Comfortable Shoes: Essential for exploring Petra and other historical sites.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are important for desert excursions.
• Modest Clothing: Respect local customs by dressing modestly, particularly in religious and rural areas.

2. Currency and Payments

• Currency: The Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is the local currency. Ensure you have sufficient cash for smaller purchases and tipping.
• Credit Cards: Major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger establishments.

3. Health and Safety

• Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover health, travel, and activity-related incidents.
• Health Precautions: Drink bottled water and be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues.

4. Local Etiquette

• Respect Traditions: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially in religious and cultural sites.
• Tipping: Tipping is customary in Jordan. A standard tip of 10-15% is appreciated in restaurants and by tour guides.

5. Language and Communication

• Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and hotels.
• Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and the location of your country’s embassy or consulate.

Conclusion

This detailed itinerary offers a well-rounded experience of Jordan, covering the country’s most iconic sites and hidden gems. From the ancient city of Petra to the serene Dead Sea and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Wadi Rum, Jordan provides a diverse range of experiences that cater to history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and relaxation lovers alike.

By following this itinerary, you’ll be able to explore Jordan’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant local life. Whether you’re visiting for a week or planning a longer stay, this guide will help you make the most of your journey through one of the Middle East’s most captivating destinations.