The Ultimate 10-Day Jordan Itinerary: A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring Jordan’s Wonders

The Ultimate 10-Day Jordan Itinerary

Jordan, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a fascinating destination for travelers. From the ancient city of Petra to the otherworldly landscape of Wadi Rum, Jordan offers a diverse range of experiences. This 10-day itinerary provides a detailed guide to help you explore the best that Jordan has to offer, ensuring you make the most of your trip.

Day 1: Arrival in Amman

Morning:

Arrival in Amman: Arrive at Queen Alia International Airport, the main gateway to Jordan. Transfer to your hotel in Amman, the capital city.
Check-In and Freshen Up: Settle into your hotel and refresh after your journey.

Afternoon:

Explore Downtown Amman: Start your exploration with a visit to the bustling downtown area. Explore the Roman Theater, an ancient amphitheater dating back to the 2nd century AD. Nearby, visit the Odeon Theater, a smaller theater used for musical performances.
Visit the Citadel (Jabal al-Qal’a): Head to the Amman Citadel, which offers panoramic views of the city and houses significant ruins, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace.

Evening:

Dinner in Rainbow Street: Enjoy dinner in the vibrant Rainbow Street area, known for its cafes, restaurants, and shops. Try traditional Jordanian dishes such as mansaf (lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce) or falafel.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Amman. Consider hotels like Amman Rotana or Grand Hyatt Amman for comfort and convenience.

Day 2: Amman to Jerash and Ajloun

Morning:

Drive to Jerash: Take a day trip to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside Italy. Explore the ancient city’s colonnaded streets, temples, and theaters.
Visit the Oval Plaza and Hadrian’s Arch: See the impressive Oval Plaza, the Temple of Artemis, and Hadrian’s Arch, commemorating Emperor Hadrian’s visit to Jerash in 129 AD.

Afternoon:

Lunch in Jerash: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Jerash, sampling traditional dishes.
Drive to Ajloun: Head to Ajloun, a town known for its medieval Ajloun Castle. Explore the castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and insight into Jordan’s history.

Evening:

Return to Amman: Drive back to Amman for an evening at leisure. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Amman.

Day 3: Amman to Madaba and Mount Nebo

Morning:

Drive to Madaba: Head to Madaba, known for its ancient mosaics. Visit St. George’s Church to see the famous Madaba Map, a mosaic map of the Holy Land from the 6th century.
Explore Madaba’s Mosaics: Discover other mosaic sites in Madaba, including the Archaeological Park and the Mosaic School.

Afternoon:

Visit Mount Nebo: Drive to Mount Nebo, a significant biblical site believed to be where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death. Explore the site and its ancient mosaics.
Lunch in Madaba: Enjoy lunch in Madaba at a local restaurant.

Evening:

Return to Amman: Head back to Amman for an evening at leisure. Consider visiting local markets or enjoying a quiet dinner.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Amman.

Day 4: Amman to Petra

Morning:

Drive to Petra: Depart early for Petra, the iconic Rose City. The drive from Amman takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Check-In and Refresh: Check into your hotel in Petra. Popular choices include Movenpick Resort Petra or Petra Marriott Hotel.

Afternoon:

Explore Petra: Begin your exploration of Petra, starting with the Siq, a narrow gorge leading to the Treasury (Al-Khazneh). Spend the afternoon exploring Petra’s various sites, including the Street of Facades, the Theater, and the Royal Tombs.

Evening:

Petra by Night: Consider experiencing Petra by Night, a magical event where the Petra site is illuminated by candles. This event takes place three times a week and offers a unique perspective on Petra’s beauty.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Petra.

Day 5: Full Day in Petra

Morning:

Explore Further: Continue exploring Petra. Visit the Monastery (Ad-Deir), which requires a hike up 800 steps but offers stunning views and a remarkable structure.
Hike to the High Place of Sacrifice: For panoramic views, hike to the High Place of Sacrifice.

Afternoon:

Lunch in Petra: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or your hotel.
Visit the Petra Archaeological Museum: Learn more about the history and artifacts of Petra at the museum.

Evening:

Relax: Spend the evening at leisure, relaxing at your hotel or exploring local dining options.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Petra.

Day 6: Petra to Wadi Rum

Morning:

Drive to Wadi Rum: Depart for Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon. The drive from Petra to Wadi Rum takes about 1.5 hours.
Check-In to a Desert Camp: Experience desert hospitality by checking into a Bedouin camp. Camps like Wadi Rum Luxury Camp or Sun City Camp offer comfortable accommodations and stunning views.

Afternoon:

4x4 Jeep Tour: Explore the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum on a 4x4 jeep tour. Visit sites such as Lawrence’s Spring, Khazali Canyon, and The Seven Pillars of Wisdom.

Evening:

Traditional Bedouin Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Bedouin meal under the stars. Experience local dishes and the warmth of Bedouin hospitality.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in a desert camp in Wadi Rum.

Day 7: Wadi Rum to Aqaba

Morning:

Sunrise in Wadi Rum: Enjoy a sunrise in Wadi Rum, capturing the desert’s beauty as the sun rises.
Camel Ride: Experience a camel ride through the desert, offering a unique perspective on the landscape.

Afternoon:

Drive to Aqaba: Depart for Aqaba, Jordan’s coastal city on the Red Sea. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Check-In and Refresh: Check into your hotel in Aqaba. Consider hotels like Kempinski Hotel Aqaba or InterContinental Aqaba.

Evening:

Explore Aqaba: Stroll along the Corniche, visit local markets, and enjoy a seafood dinner by the sea.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Aqaba.

Day 8: Red Sea Activities in Aqaba

Morning:

Snorkeling or Diving: Explore the underwater world of the Red Sea. Aqaba offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities at sites like the Coral Garden and Japanese Garden.

Afternoon:

Relax by the Beach: Spend the afternoon relaxing on Aqaba’s beaches or enjoying water sports like jet-skiing or kayaking.
Lunch by the Sea: Have lunch at a beachfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local cuisine.

Evening:

Sunset Cruise: Take a sunset cruise on the Red Sea for breathtaking views and a relaxing experience.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Aqaba.

Day 9: Aqaba to the Dead Sea

Morning:

Drive to the Dead Sea: Depart for the Dead Sea, located about 3 hours from Aqaba. The Dead Sea is renowned for its unique properties and stunning landscapes.
Check-In and Refresh: Check into your hotel by the Dead Sea. Consider resorts like Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea or Movenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea.

Afternoon:

Float in the Dead Sea: Experience floating in the Dead Sea’s mineral-rich waters, famous for their therapeutic benefits.
Enjoy the Spa: Pamper yourself with a spa treatment, using the Dead Sea’s mineral mud and salts.

Evening:

Relax and Dine: Enjoy a relaxing evening at your resort, with dinner at one of the hotel’s restaurants.

Accommodation: Stay overnight by the Dead Sea.

Day 10: Return to Amman and Departure

Morning:

Drive to Amman: Depart for Amman, allowing approximately 1.5 hours for the drive.
Last-Minute Shopping and Sightseeing: Use your remaining time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Amman. Consider visiting the Jordan Museum or local markets for souvenirs.

Afternoon:

Transfer to Airport: Head to Queen Alia International Airport for your departure flight.

Evening:

Departure: Board your flight and depart Jordan, taking with you unforgettable memories of your journey.

Additional Tips for Your Jordan Trip

Visa Requirements: Ensure you have a valid visa for Jordan. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or apply online for an e-visa.
Local Currency: The currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Carry some local currency for small purchases and tips.
Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended due to the warm climate.
Health and Safety: Drink bottled water and follow standard health precautions. Jordan is generally safe for travelers, but always stay informed about local conditions.

This 10-day itinerary offers a comprehensive guide to exploring Jordan’s diverse attractions, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience. Enjoy your journey through this remarkable country!