Lykkers, imagine sandstone corridors glowing at sunrise, fragrant markets, and a desert sky crowded with constellations.

Jordan blends world-class archaeology with soulful landscapes, streamlined logistics, and warm hospitality. This guide distills the essentials: when to go, what it costs, how to move, where to stay, and the top sights worth your time.

Why Go

Jordan is compact yet varied: dramatic rock cities, silent sand seas, coastal reefs, and lively hilltop neighborhoods. Most icons sit within 4–5 hours of Amman, making weeklong trips feel rich, not rushed.

When To Go

March–May and September–November bring hiking-perfect temperatures (mid-70s to mid-80s °F). Summer is hot inland; start early and siesta midday. Winter is cool in Amman and crisp in the desert; expect bright skies and lighter crowds.

Entry & Pass

Most travelers need a visa on arrival (around $57). The Jordan Pass (from ~$100–$130) waives visa fees for many nationalities when staying 3+ nights and includes entry to 40+ sites, notably Petra (choose 1–3 days). It pays for itself quickly.

Getting Around

JETT buses are comfy and great value: Amman→Petra ~$16 one way; Amman→Aqaba ~$15–$18. Private drivers for day trips run ~$120–$180 per car. Car rentals start near $35–$55/day (automatic, unlimited miles). A 45-minute hop between Amman and Aqaba on Royal Jordanian often prices $40–$90.

Top Sights

Petra opens ~06:00 until dusk. A 1-day ticket is roughly $70–$80 (included with Jordan Pass). Walk the Siq to the Treasury, then push on to the Royal Tombs and High Place of Sacrifice. Allow 6–8 hours; sturdy shoes and 2L of water are non-negotiable.

Jerash dazzles with colonnades, plazas, and theaters. Entry for visitors is typically ~$17; 2–3 hours is ideal, best in early light.

Desert Magic

Wadi Ram is a protected area of copper sands and granite massifs. Entry is ~$7, with 4×4 tours $70–$120 per jeep (2–4 hours, shared or private). Overnight camps ($60–$120 pp, dinner & breakfast included) deliver sunset viewpoints and astonishing night skies. Hot-air balloon rides, when running, average $190–$250.

Amman Essentials

Amman’s central hills pack trendy cafés, galleries, and street food. Taxis across town cost $2–$6; airport taxis post fixed fares (~$28–$35 for 45–60 minutes). Stroll Rainbow Street for handicrafts, then dip into downtown for markets and viewpoints. Evenings are relaxed; light layers help for breezy rooftops.

Desert Pavilions

East of Amman, a circuit of early-medieval desert pavilions showcases intricate wall art and clever bathhouses. Most travelers visit on a 4–5 hour loop (private car/guide ~$100–$140 total). Bring small cash for local crafts and site attendants.

Forest Trails

In the north, Ajloun’s evergreen hills make a cool counterpoint to the sands. Marked trails range from 1–8 miles, with day access commonly ~$10–$15. Spring wildflowers are superb; autumn has golden light and clear views.

Food Finds

Jordanian cooking celebrates grains, legumes, herbs, and slow-cooked meats. Expect spreads of hummus, moutabbal, fresh salads like tabbouleh, oven-baked pastries, and rice dishes layered with spices. Falafel sandwiches run $1–$3; hearty mezze for two, $14–$24; sit-down mains, $10–$18. For drinks, order strong mint tea, fresh juices, or cardamom-scented coffee.

Where To Stay

Amman: Centrally located 3-stars start $70–$110; boutique and design picks $120–$180.

Petra (Wadi Musa): Walkable hotels near the gate from $90–$160; luxury choices $220+.

Wadi Ram: Bubble or Bedouin-style tents $60–$120 pp with dinner/breakfast; ask about private bathrooms and heating in cooler months.

Aqaba: Beachfront resorts $160–$300+; great-value city hotels $60–$100, 10–15 minutes from public beaches.

Smart Routes

Classic 7-Day: Amman (2 nights) → Jerash & desert pavilions day trips → Petra (2 nights) → Wadi Ram (1 night) → Aqaba (1–2 nights) with flight or bus back.

Short & Sweet 4-Day: Amman → Petra → Wadi Ram overnight → Amman.

Aim to prebook Petra hotels and Ram camps in high season (Mar–May, Sep–Nov).

Practical Tips

Hydrate constantly; tap water is treated in major cities, but many prefer sealed bottles. The sun is intense—hat, scarf, SPF 50, and lip balm are essential. Desert winds can whip sand; sunglasses help. Dress light but modest: shoulders covered in rural areas, and breathable trousers for sun and comfort.

Safety Basics

Keep valuables zipped, use registered taxis or known apps, and avoid night driving on unfamiliar desert roads. For canyon hikes, go with licensed guides and heed local weather advice. The national emergency number is 911.

Conclusion

Jordan rewards curious travelers with carved cities, echoing canyons, forest trails, and a shoreline made for easy days. Which path calls to you first—Petra’s stairways, Ram's sunsets, or a reef-bright morning in Aqaba? Share your timing and budget, and a tailored route—with daily costs and smooth transfers—can be mapped in a snap.