Travel to Jordan: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

Nestled between Israel, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Syria, Jordan may not be the most visited country in the Middle East, but it’s certainly one of the safest and most welcoming. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions, Jordan offers travelers an authentic and immersive experience unlike anywhere else.

From the bustling streets of Amman to the silence of desert canyons, Jordan has something for everyone — whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple seeking romance, or a family looking for adventure. This guide is designed to help you navigate the essentials so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your journey.

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🌟 1. Best Places to Visit in Jordan

Jordan is packed with world-class attractions that blend natural beauty, historical significance, and unique cultural experiences. Here are the top destinations you should include in your itinerary:

🏛️ Petra – The Rose-Red City

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Petra is Jordan’s crown jewel. Carved into red sandstone cliffs by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago, this ancient city reveals itself dramatically as you walk through the narrow Siq to see the iconic Treasury.

Highlights:

• The Siq and Al Khazneh (The Treasury)
• Monastery (Ad Deir) hike
• Royal Tombs and Street of Facades
• Petra by Night (guided candlelit tours)

📌 Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and heat. Consider staying overnight in a nearby hotel or camp for a magical sunrise experience.

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🐪 Wadi Rum – Valley of the Moon

Also known as the Desert of the Moon , Wadi Rum is famous for its sweeping dunes, towering sandstone mountains, and cinematic landscapes. It was the setting for films like Lawrence of Arabia and The Martian .

Activities:

• Jeep safari through canyons and dunes
• Camel trekking at sunset
• Overnight stay in Bedouin-style camps
• Stargazing under clear desert skies

📌 Tip: Book directly with local Bedouin operators for better rates and a more authentic experience.

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🌊 The Dead Sea – Lowest Point on Earth

At 430 meters below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth. Its hyper-saline water allows you to float effortlessly, while the mineral-rich mud is said to have healing properties.

Things to Do:

• Float in the salty waters
• Apply black Dead Sea mud
• Visit luxury spas and resorts
• Hike the nearby Mujib Biosphere Reserve

📌 Tip: Bring your own towel and flip-flops — many beaches don’t provide them.

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🕌 Amman – Modern Capital with Ancient Roots

Jordan’s capital, Amman , is a vibrant mix of old and new. While it may not have the grandeur of Petra or the drama of Wadi Rum, it’s a great place to start your journey.

Highlights:

• Roman Amphitheatre
• Citadel and Temple of Hercules
• Rainbow Street & Downtown Amman
• Hashem Restaurant (try falafel and hummus)
• Jordan Museum (home to the Dead Sea Scrolls)

📌 Tip: Walk around Downtown Amman to see Ottoman architecture and enjoy street food like knafeh and shawarma.

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🏺 Jerash – Greco-Roman Ruins

One of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy, Jerash offers a fascinating glimpse into life during the Roman Empire.

Highlights:

• Oval Plaza and colonnaded streets
• Hadrian’s Arch
• South Theater and North Theater
• Walking paths lined with temples and mosaics

📌 Tip: Visit in the morning when it’s cooler and less crowded.

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⛰️ Mount Nebo & Madaba – Biblical History

These two sites offer a spiritual and historical journey through time.

Madaba:

• Famous for its 6th-century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land.
• Explore St. George Church and other mosaic-filled churches.

Mount Nebo:

• Believed to be where Moses saw the Promised Land.
• Panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea.

📌 Tip: Combine both in a single day trip from Amman.

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🏰 Karak & Ajloun Castles

These Crusader-era fortresses are perfect for history lovers.

Karak Castle:

• Massive hilltop fortress with tunnels and towers.
• Located along the King’s Highway.

Ajloun Castle:

• Smaller but well-preserved medieval Islamic fortress.
• Offers panoramic views of the Jordan Valley.

📌 Tip: Both castles are easily accessible on a road trip between Amman and Jerash.

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🦋 Dana Biosphere Reserve – Nature Lover’s Paradise

For those who love hiking, wildlife, and rural culture, Dana Biosphere Reserve is a must-visit.

Highlights:

• Four distinct bio-zones: Mediterranean to desert
• Villages like Dana Village offer homestays
• Hiking trails through wadis and mountains
• Rich biodiversity including ibex, foxes, and birds

📌 Tip: Stay at the Dana Guesthouse , run by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN).

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👩‍🌾 2. Cultural Etiquette for Travelers in Jordan

Jordanians are among the friendliest people in the Middle East, and respecting their customs will enhance your travel experience and foster positive interactions.

🙏 Key Cultural Tips:

✅ Dress Modestly

• Especially outside major tourist areas.
• Women should consider covering shoulders, chest, and knees.
• Men should avoid wearing shorts in conservative areas.

✅ Greeting Customs

• Use “As-salamu alaykum” (Peace be upon you) to greet locals.
• Handshakes are common between same genders; wait for women to extend their hand.

✅ Hospitality Is Sacred

• Accept invitations for tea or coffee — it’s a sign of respect and friendship.
• Meals often involve sharing dishes, so don’t be shy to eat with your hands if others do.

✅ Remove Shoes When Asked

• In homes, mosques, or some restaurants — follow the lead of locals.

✅ Public Displays of Affection

• Avoid kissing or hugging in public, especially in rural areas.

✅ Photography

• Always ask before taking photos of people, especially women and children.
• Some religious sites may restrict photography.

✅ Ramadan Considerations

• During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours may be frowned upon.
• Business hours change — plan accordingly.

📌 Tip: Learning a few Arabic phrases like “Shukran” (Thank you), “Min fadlik” (Please), and “Afwan” (You’re welcome) will earn you smiles and goodwill.

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💰 3. Budget Travel Tips for Jordan

Jordan can be mid-range to expensive, but with smart planning, you can enjoy its wonders without breaking the bank.

🚗 Transportation

• Use shared taxis or JETT bus service between cities instead of private transfers.
• Shared taxis are cheaper but slower than private transfers.
• Book desert tours directly in Petra or Wadi Rum — they’re often cheaper than hotel packages.

🏨 Accommodation

• Look for guesthouses or family-run hotels for affordable stays.
• In Amman: Try Downtown or Jabal Amman neighborhoods.
• In Petra: Stay near the entrance or in Masafer lodgings.
• In Wadi Rum: Choose a Bedouin camp — it’s authentic and budget-friendly.

🍽️ Food

• Eat at local eateries like Hashem or Abu Jbara in Amman.
• Street food like falafel, shawarma, and knafeh is both delicious and cheap.
• Avoid eating at tourist-heavy areas — prices are higher.

🎫 Entrance Fees

• Get the Jordan Pass , which includes entry to over 40 sites + your visa fee.
• It’s worth it if you’re visiting Petra, Jerash, and several other attractions.

🗓️ Travel Timing

• Avoid peak seasons (spring and fall) for better prices.
• Winter months are cooler and less crowded, ideal for hiking and sightseeing.

📌 Daily budget estimate:

• Budget travelers: $50–$70/day
• Mid-range: $80–$120/day
• Luxury: $150+/day

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🗺️ 4. Sample Travel Itineraries

Here are a few itineraries to suit different types of travelers and timeframes.

🌞 3-Day Short Trip (Ideal for Weekend Travelers)

Day 1: Arrival in Amman → Explore Citadel, Roman Amphitheater, Rainbow Street dinner
Day 2: Day trip to Petra (or Jerash)
Day 3: Visit the Dead Sea → Return to Amman for departure

🧭 7-Day Classic Jordan Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Amman → Explore downtown and Citadel
Day 2: Jerash & Ajloun Castles
Day 3: Petra (overnight optional)
Day 4: Wadi Rum Desert Safari
Day 5: Dead Sea relaxation
Day 6: Madaba & Mount Nebo
Day 7: Departure from Amman

🏞️ 10-Day Adventure Itinerary

Add extra days for:

• Hiking in Dana Biosphere Reserve
• Exploring the Red Sea port city of Aqaba
• Snorkeling or diving in the Gulf of Aqaba
• Optional side trips to Umm Qais or Azraq Wetland Reserve

📌 Tip: If you have limited time, focus on Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea — the three crown jewels of Jordan.