Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Jordan
Jordan is one of those places that quietly blows you away. In less than a week, you can walk through ancient Nabataean cities, explore remarkably preserved Roman ruins, float in the lowest place on Earth, and sleep under the stars in the desert. If you’re planning your first visit, this guide breaks down what to expect, where to go, and the key things to know before you arrive.
Why Visit Jordan
Jordan packs an incredible amount of history, culture, and landscape into a relatively small country. You’ll move easily from biblical sites to world wonders, from deserts that feel like another planet to modern cities with deep roots. It’s ideal for travelers who want meaningful experiences without needing weeks of travel time.
A Perfect 6-Day Jordan Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to Petra
Most trips begin by flying into Amman, then driving south toward Petra with several meaningful stops along the way.
Mount Nebo: One of the most important biblical sites in Jordan, Mount Nebo is believed to be where Moses viewed the Promised Land. On clear days, you can see all the way to Jerusalem.
Madaba: Known as the City of Mosaics, Madaba is home to some of the oldest and most detailed mosaic maps in the world, including the famous Madaba Map depicting the Holy Land.
Church of the Beheading of St. John the Baptist: This Roman Catholic church sits above ancient ruins and holds religious significance tied to John the Baptist’s story.
Bethany Beyond the Jordan: Recognized as the baptism site of Jesus, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most sacred places in Christianity and an incredibly peaceful stop. You can even get baptized where Jesus was while you’re here.
Little Petra: Smaller and far less crowded than Petra, this site gives you a preview of Nabataean architecture and helps set the stage for what you’ll see the next day.
Petra by Night: A candlelit experience that allows you to see the Treasury after hours.
It does not run every night, so schedules must be checked in advance
Tickets are limited and must be purchased onsite
Tickets are not included in the Jordan Pass
Arriving early increases your chances of getting tickets
Staying at Mövenpick Resort Petra makes attending this much easier.
Day 2: Petra and Wadi Rum
Plan for an early start to make the most of Petra. I highly recommend arriving at the entrance right when it opens to avoid the crowds and the heat.
Walk through the Siq: The narrow canyon leading to Petra’s Treasury is one of the most dramatic entrances to any archaeological site in the world.
See the Treasury up close: Petra’s most iconic structure, carved directly into rose-colored rock, is even more impressive in person.
Hike to the Monastery: This uphill hike rewards you with panoramic desert views and far fewer crowds than the Treasury area.
Day 3: Wadi Rum and the Red Sea
Wake up early to experience Wadi Rum at its most peaceful.
Sunrise jeep tour: A guided jeep tour takes you through vast desert landscapes, sandstone arches, and historic sites tied to Lawrence of Arabia.
Sandboarding: Many tours include sandboarding on massive dunes, which is surprisingly fun and easy to try.
Glass-bottom boat tour of the Red Sea: This is an easy way to see vibrant coral reefs and marine life without needing to snorkel or dive.
Day 4: Dead Sea Day Trip
No trip to Jordan is complete without visiting the Dead Sea.
Float in the Dead Sea: The extreme salt content makes it impossible to sink, creating a once-in-a-lifetime floating experience.
Holiday Inn Dead Sea Resort day pass: A day pass gives you access to private beaches, freshwater pools, showers, and Dead Sea mud treatments, making the experience far more enjoyable.
Day 5: Jerash Day Trip
Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy.
Walk along original Roman streets
Explore theaters, temples, and colonnades
Learn how Roman life functioned in this region thousands of years ago
It’s an easy day trip from Amman and a highlight for history lovers.
Day 6: Explore Amman
Spend your final day exploring Jordan’s capital city.
Amman Citadel: Perched on a hill, the Citadel offers sweeping views of the city and layers of history from multiple civilizations.
Temple of Hercules: Located within the Citadel, this Roman structure is one of Amman’s most famous landmarks.
Roman Theatre: Still used for events today, this massive amphitheater gives insight into Roman entertainment culture.
King Abdullah I Mosque: A modern architectural highlight with a stunning blue dome, open to visitors outside prayer times.
Where to Stay
Mövenpick Resort Petra: located directly across from Petra’s main entrance. The location is unbeatable and especially convenient if you plan to visit Petra more than once or to attend Petra by Night.
Four Seasons Amman: the perfect 5-star, luxurious base for your days in Amman
Memories Aicha Luxury Camp: offers private bubble tents with panoramic desert views and amenities that balance comfort with adventure. Experiences available include:
Sunrise camel rides
Guided hikes to scenic viewpoints
Jeep tours across the desert
Stargazing under clear desert skies
Onsite dining and a cave-style bar
An incredible hike to a viewpoint behind the camp for unreal desert scenery
Tips Before You Go
Hiring a private driver makes navigating Jordan much easier and more efficient
Bring cash, as tipping is customary for drivers, guides, and hotel staff
Distances may appear short, but sightseeing stops add time
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially in Petra
Jordan is welcoming, safe, and filled with unforgettable experiences at every turn. It’s a destination that offers far more than expected and rewards travelers who take the time to explore it properly.
Ready to plan your trip? Fill out my trip inquiry form and we can start planning today!
