Overview
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Practical information
Jordan is a beautiful country with the most unique landscapes and many interesting sights such as ancient Roman cities, the Wadi Rum desert, Petra… you name it. We are sure that a road trip is the best way to get the most out of your trip and see all Jordan’s beauty. Not only did we see the most beautiful sights, but we also enjoyed the most breathtaking views and drove through some incredible landscapes all along the way.
Road trip with 'Jordan Nomads'
We went on this road trip with Jordan Nomads, and we can assure you that this trip includes everything you need to fully experience Jordan. Planning a road trip is not always easy, which is why Jordan Nomads is the ideal solution to get you on your way. You can sleep on both ears, that after this trip, you have seen the most beautiful places of Jordan. On top of that, they provide your rental car and all overnight stays for you. The route will take you along many different sights and you can completely decide yourself which ones you like to see and which one you prefer to skip. To make your trip complete, Jordan Nomads can arrange some fun activities like snorkeling, a Wadi Rum jeep safari and a spa night for you along the route. Discovering a country has never been easier!
Driving in Jordan
So how is driving in Jordan? We have experienced that the traffic rules in Jordan are largely the same as those in most parts of Europe, but that here they are seen more as a suggestion than that they are actually followed. Almost all roads are paved and generally in good condition.
You will also notice that locals often park their car in the most random places, but this is also considered normal.
The speed limits are generally well respected, so try to adapt your speed too for your own safety. Traffic can be chaotic at times, but we just went with the flow and tried to be patient. Be aware that drivers do not always stay on their track section and make sure they have seen you before you pass by.
Tip: Watch out for speed bumps. Some are higher than you think and often they are the same color as the road. Sometimes they are indicated, other times not at all. It is mainly in the built-up area that you encounter them, but sometimes you do not expect them at all. So always pay close attention to the road.
The Jordan pass
We believe the Jordan Pass is a must-have during your road trip through Jordan. This pass is an all-in-one ticket that will grant you access to some of the country’s most iconic attractions, simplifying your travel experience and saving you time and money. With the Jordan Pass, you can explore the mesmerizing ancient city of Petra, the majestic Roman ruins of Jerash, and the captivating desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, among other incredible destinations. Not only does the pass grant you entry to these must-see sites, but it also includes a visa for Jordan, which can save you a lot of hassle. We were very happy with our Jordan Pass because it probably saved us quite a bit of time, effort, and money. So make sure to add this pass to your booking with Jordan Nomads.
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Airport - Amman
On the first day, we arrived at the airport of Amman, where we could pick up our rental car, which went super smoothly. We didn’t have to worry about anything because everything was arranged by Jordan Nomads!
It was the start of an amazing adventure. During the ride from the airport to the hotel in Amman, we were immediately flooded with impressions of this amazing country: lights, sounds, colors, and smells, even this ‘short’ ride captivated us.
Right after check-in, we dove into the city and looked for a nice place to eat. There is plenty of choice!
Note: Be sure to check out Rainbow Street. This is a colorful street full of restaurants and bars where many tourists come.
Unique stays in Jordan
Discover the best places to sleep in Joran and enjoy a comfotable trip!
Amman - Dana
Today the adventure really starts! We dove into the vibrant city center of Amman, with its interesting culture and fascinating history. We really liked visiting the various sites, such as the citadel and the Roman Theatre.
After Amman, we drove into the direction of the Dead Sea. On the way, we decided to make a stop at the Ma’In Hot springs, where you can take a dip in the water. We were literally blown away by the landscapes we drove through on our way there.
Once we reached the Dead Sea, it was time for one of the most unique experiences on this trip: floating effortlessly in the super salty water. Definitely an experience not to be missed!
After all these new impressions, we went straight to the hotel in Dana that Jordan Nomads arranged for us. Our hotel was located at the top of a valley. We had dinner here with a beautiful view and we witnessed a gorgeous sunset. The perfect ending of our first full day of this Jordan trip.
Amman
Amman Citadel
To our opinion, the Amman citadel is a sight you should not miss during this road trip. It is perched high on a hill in the heart of Amman, giving you a good idea of the city’s rich history. Besides being historically interesting, it also offers a breathtaking panoramic view over the modern city. We were really impressed to see the size and the different styles of the capital of Jordan. We could even see the Roman Theatre from here.
Practical
The entrance fee to Amman Citadel is 3 JOD, but it's free with a Jordan Pass.
Saturday to Thursday: 08:00 am - 07:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am - 04:00 pm
Roman Theater
The Roman Theater is an impressive architectural masterpiece, located in the heart of downtown. We were captivated by its enormous size and how well-preserved the amphitheater is. With its capacity of 6000 spectators, it is the largest Roman Theatre in Jordan and it is still used today. If you are not afraid of heights, you should definitely go all the way to the top to get a good impression of the size of the theater. Be careful, because the stairs are steep!
Practical
The entrance fee to the Roman Theater is 2 JOD, but it's free with a Jordan Pass.
Sunday to Thursday: 08:00 am - 08:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: 08:00 am - 10:00 pm
King Abdullah I Mosque
The King Abdullah I Mosque is an iconic symbol of Jordan’s religious and architectural heritage. It is a majestic mosque with a striking blue dome and two elegant minarets. We were very surprised to see how simple yet impressive this place is. It is the only mosque in Amman where everyone is welcome. To enter, you must wear long trousers as a man and cover your head and arms as a woman. At the entrance, they will give you a robe if you are not wearing the right clothes.
Practical
The entrance fee to the King Abdullah I Mosque is 2 JOD.
Sunday to Thursday: 08:00 am - 08:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: 08:00 am - 10:00 pm
Ma-in hot spring
As we mentioned before, the road to Ma’In hot spring is an experience in itself with beautiful views through an impressive landscape. It was probably one of the most beautiful roads we drove on this road trip. However, we think the hot springs themselves were not really worth a visit. It was super busy, with people playing loud music, which took away from the beautiful and relaxing atmosphere. You can take a (not so refreshing) dip in the hot water that fluctuates between 45 and 60 degrees Celsius. You can also bathe under some of the beautiful waterfalls, but be prepared for big crowds when you go during the day.
Practical
The entrance fee to the Ma'in hot spring is 15 JOD per person.
The Ma'in hot spring is daily open from 09:00 am until 09:00 pm.
Dead sea
We found the Dead Sea a very interesting place to visit during our road trip. Although the name suggests otherwise, the Dead Sea is actually a lake and not a sea. It is known as the lowest point on earth as it is located 420 meters below sea level. Every year, the water drops another meter due to evaporation, making the lake even saltier. For your reference: the Dead Sea has a salinity of 34%, the oceans have an average of 3,5%.
Because of this saltiness, it is not possible to swim in the Dead Sea, but you can float in it. If you ask us: an experience that you should definitely have once in your life.
If you type in ‘Dead Sea Free Swimming’ in Google Maps, you’ll find an area where you can get in the water for free. Alternatively, you can enter the water for a fee at one of the luxury resorts, where you can also use the changing rooms, showers and swimming pools. Usually at these resorts, you can also smear yourself with mud, which turns out to be very good for your skin.
We went in the water at a free place. Unlike at the resorts, nothing is provided here for easy access to the water. You have to crawl over the salt, which is quite sharp. So it is best to provide some water shoes to protect your feet.
Note: It is important to rinse the salt off your body with clean water immediately after floating. At the free places, you can often use a shower for about 2,5 JOD. You can also just take a few bottles of water with you and rinse yourself off with it. At the luxury resorts, you can simply use the showers.
Do not stay in the water for more than 15 minutes, as the high salt concentration can cause dehydration and skin irritation.
Always keep your head above the water, and try not to get your hair wet.
Don’t go into the water with a wound, because it will be extremely painful.
Dana - Petra
On this day, we didn’t have to drive a lot, so we had plenty of time to enjoy a beautiful hike in the Wadi Ghuweir Canyon or Dana Biosphere Reserve. Our preference was for the Wadi Ghuweir and we have not regretted it for a moment. Before we drove from our hotel to one of these hikes, you made a short stop in the village of Dana.
After exploring the beautiful Wadi Ghuweir Canyon, we drove further to our hotel. It was located near the entrance to Petra, which was scheduled for the next day. We couldn’t have wished for a better location to spend the night for our visit to Petra, so thank you Jordan Nomads!
Jordan Nomads Activity: After a full day of hiking, you can enjoy a well-deserved spa night, which you can add to your trip activities when booking your trip with Jordan Nomads!
Wadi Ghuweir
We chose to hike the Wadi Ghuweir trail. And what a beautiful hike this was.
Wadi Ghuweir is truly a hidden gem in the heart of Jordan’s breathtaking landscapes. It is a stunning canyon with towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and hanging gardens with palm trees. As we hiked through the Wadi, following the water, we were accompanied by small cascading waterfalls, impressive rock formations, and a serene tranquil atmosphere. Behind every corner, we were blown away over and over again by the beauty of this very unique canyon. Therefore, we definitely recommend you to do this hike. For us, this was really one of the highlights of this Jordan itinerary.
The total length of the canyon is 14 km, but we did only the first 7 km from the start of the hike, because it is said to be the most beautiful part of the canyon. You can then just return and walk back to your car. Even if you walk back along the same route, it looks very different on the way back.
Practical
Wear good walking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks. Expect your feet to get wet! This hike requires a certain level of fitness because you will have to climb over and down rocks with hands and feet.
Must Read
Petra - Wadi Rum
Big day! It is finally time to visit Petra, the most famous landmark in Jordan. A day we had really looked forward to on this Jordan itinerary.
We got up very early in the morning to have a full day to explore the gigantic site of Petra. We definitely recommend you to go as early as possible. Not only to avoid the crowds, but also because you will need a lot of time to see the entire site. We walked about 20 km that day!
After a full day of exploring this unique world wonder, it was time to leave the hustle and bustle and we drove towards the calm and quiet Wadi Rum desert. We left our rental car on a parking lot, where someone came to pick us up and bring us to the desert camp to spend two nights in the middle of the desert. Can it get even more unique?
Petra
Let’s dive into probably the most famous sight of Jordan: Petra. This ancient “Rose City” is one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find numerous of historical buildings carved into sandstone cliffs, It is a fascinating combination of natural beauty and human craftsmanship. At the end of the Siq, the canyon pathway that leads to the city, the impressive Treasury suddenly looms between the cliffs. We literally got goosebumps when we saw the first glimpse of the Treasury. Beyond the Treasury, there are even more interesting places to explore. The whole site is full of impressive tombs, temples, and amphitheaters carved into the beautiful rock formations.
Upon entering, we immediately walked to the Monastery after the Treasury. In this way, we had it all to ourselves. After the Monastery, we went to the Treasury viewpoint along the Al-Khubtha trail. We felt that this was the best way to avoid the crowd.
Must Read
Practical
The entrance fee to Petra is 50 JOD, but it's free with a Jordan Pass.
Daily open from 06:00 am until 06:00 pm.
The opening hours for Petra depend on the season or month of your visit. You can find all current opening hours on their website.
The Jordan Pass is an all-in-one ticket that will grant you access to over 40 of the country’s most iconic attractions, simplifying your travel experience and saving you time and money. Not only does the pass grant you entry to these must-see sites, but it also includes a visa for Jordan, making it a convenient and cost-effective choice for travelers.
There are 3 types of Jordan Passes. The price varies between 70 to 90 JOD (€ 90-€120). You can find all the information about the Jordan pass here.
Wadi Rum
After our first night under the stars in the desert, it was time to explore more of the Wadi Rum. We joined a Wadi Rum Jeep safari, that we booked in advance with Jordan Nomads (we highly recommend!). Alternatively, you can also venture into the desert on foot (just make sure you always follow a clear path and always know the way back).
Back at the camp, we spent some time with other travelers who went on this Jordan road trip with Jordan Nomads and waited for the sun to set. At this time, we went into the desert again (not too far, so we could still find our way back), found ourselves a good rock, and enjoyed a magical sunset in this breathtaking landscape. It is one of the most unique places we have ever witnessed a sunset.
We also set an alarm clock at night to look at the stars and the Milky Way, which you can see very clearly, and let an alarm go off early in the morning as well to witness an incredible sunrise.
Wadi Rum jeep safari
If someone asks us what you should definitely do in Jordan, we would say without a doubt a Wadi Rum jeep safari. Jump in the back of a safari jeep and let the wind blow through your hair as you tear over the beautiful sand dunes and between the impressive rock formations of the Wadi Rum. Along the way, we had the chance to try sandboarding where you slide down a sand dune with a snowboard. The driver also stops a few times to show you certain viewpoints and interesting places, and to drink tea in several huts in the desert. In the afternoon, we got a delicious lunch before returning to the camp, where we spent some time with the other people who were doing the same trip. Definitely another highlight for us!
Note: In the desert, you will have no service or internet. Therefore, it’s the ideal opportunity to enjoy peace and sociability with other people to the fullest.
Unique stays in Jordan
Find the best places to stay in the Wadi Rum and enjoy a comfortable trip.
Wadi Rum - Aqaba
On day 6, we left the peace of the desert and drove all the way to the big city of Aqaba, where we took some rest and relaxed at the Red Sea. For us, it was the perfect place for a day at the beach and a cocktail on a sunny terrace.
Red sea
The Red Sea is definitely our favorite sea so far! It is one of the most tropical seas in the world and contains over 200 different species of coral and thousands of fish and invertebrates. This is all due to its high temperature (between 25 and 28 degrees Celcius). This makes it the ideal place for snorkeling and diving. That’s why we love this sea so much! You can choose to book a 2-hour snorkel tour with a guide, who will show you the underwater world of the Red Sea. If you’re not into snorkeling, you can also just relax on the beach and go for a swim in the clear waters.
Aqaba
The rest of your day, you can spend strolling through the city center of Aqaba. Here we found many lovely places to have a drink and we had plenty of choice of restaurants for lunch and dinner. The perfect moment and place for cocktail o’clock, if you ask us.
Aqaba - Jerash
Today we covered the longest distance of the entire road trip. We drove from Aqaba all the way to Jerash. Along the way, there were a few interesting places where we could stop, to break the long trip. There is a shorter way to get from Aqaba to Jerash, but we loved the mapped-out detour that Jordan Nomads suggested. This way, we drove along a different road than we did on the way there and we saw things along the way that we had not seen yet in this breathtaking Jordan.
In the evening, we slept close to the archeological site of Jerash, which we found very convenient to be able to visit early the next morning.
Grand canyon viewpoint
One of the beautiful stops on this part of this Jordan itinerary is the Grand Canyon View. It is a panoramic view of one of the many canyons in the region. We found it definitely worth stopping there to enjoy the view. There is a small cafe, where you can also go to the toilet and have a drink.
Madaba
Another interesting place we passed by was Madaba. This city is located on a mountaintop with a view of the Dead Sea. It has one of the largest Christian communities in Jordan, so you will find many nice churches, including the St John church. In this church, you will not only find the largest and most famous mosaic of Madaba, but you also have a beautiful view of the area from the tower, which makes it definitely worth a visit.
In addition to the churches, we also found a cozy neighborhood full of restaurants and souvenir shops in the center. We thought this was the perfect place to stop for lunch and break the trip of this day.
Lunch Tip: Kawon’s kitchen. It is a bookstore with a nice cafe, a big garden and a delicious vegetarian kitchen.
Jerash - Amman
The last day of this road trip is definitely not the least. We had plenty of time to explore the archeological site of Jerash and any sights in Amman we missed on our first day of this adventure. We still had to visit the King Abdullah I Mosque, because it was closed when we were there the first time. We had plenty of time for this and could even enjoy Amman more.
Unfortunately, in the late afternoon, it was time to return our car at the airport and say goodbye to this incredible country. We boarded the plane with many great memories and new experiences. A trip that we will definitely never forget.
Jerash
Talk about an impressive ending! The archaeological site of Jerash is an amazing representation of the grandeur of the Roman Empire in the heart of Jordan. It is considered one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world and we can definitely see why. You can clearly see the remains of cobbled streets, surrounded by columns, temples, large theaters, squares, baths, fountains, and city walls. Our jaws dropped by seeing how well everything has been preserved here. You can really imagine what it must have looked like here back in time!
Practical
The entrance fee to Jerash is 10 JOD, but it's free with a Jordan Pass.
Opening hours depend on the season or month of your visit. Find all current opening hours on their website.
Wear good hiking shoes and bring sun cream, a hat and plenty of water and snacks, because you'll have to walk quite a distance and climb a lot of stairs.
Why this Jordan itinerary
This 7 day Jordan itinerary includes everything this amazing country has to offer. From the vibrant streets of Amman to the timeless wonders of Petra and the breathtaking Wadi Rum desert, this journey has been such an unforgettable adventure. During these 7 days, we were blown away every day again by interesting sights, impressive landscapes, and unique experiences. A road trip through Jordan should be on everyone’s bucket list. Words cannot describe what we saw and felt during this adventure. The only way to experience this feeling is to go on this journey yourself with Jordan Nomads and drive your 4×4 through the breathtaking landscapes of Jordan.
Win-Win for everyone
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However, you still pay the same and therefore have no extra costs! So a win-win for everyone. This way, we can continue to add even more travel inspiration and tips to this blog for your next adventure. Thanks a lot!
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Win-Win for everyone
Did you know that, if you buy or book something through our links, we receive a small commission?
However, you still pay the same and therefore have no extra costs! So a win-win for everyone. This way, we can continue to add even more travel inspiration and tips to this blog for your next adventure. Thanks a lot!
