Jordan is small and easy to get around, but every stop is more striking than the last. Petra alone is worth the trip.
What to see in Jordan
Petra is in the south of the country, about three hours by road from Amman. These are the essential stops.
Petra
The Nabataean city, carved into rose-colored rock more than 2,000 years ago, is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. You enter through the Siq, a canyon more than half a mile long that opens onto the Treasury; keen walkers climb the 800 steps to the Monastery.
Give it a full day. On some evenings Petra by Night lights the Siq with candles.
Wadi Rum
The “Valley of the Moon” is a desert of red sand and granite mountains where Lawrence of Arabia was filmed. You explore it by 4x4 with Bedouin guides, and many groups sleep in camps under the stars.
Desert nights are cold much of the year; bring a jacket.
Mount Nebo and Madaba
From Mount Nebo, according to the Bible, Moses saw the Promised Land; on clear days you can see down the Jordan Valley to Jericho. Nearby, Madaba holds the oldest surviving mosaic map of the Holy Land, from the 6th century.
Bethany Beyond the Jordan
On the Jordanian bank of the Jordan River, Bethany Beyond the Jordan is a World Heritage Site identified with the place where John baptized Jesus.
The Dead Sea
The Jordanian shore has resorts with private beaches where you can float and try the mineral mud. It is the perfect rest after Petra.
Amman and Jerash
The capital has a Roman theater right downtown and the Citadel on the hill. An hour north, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy.
Best time to visit Jordan
Spring and fall are ideal for walking Petra and sleeping in the desert.
- Jan Cold
- Feb Cold
- Mar Good
- Apr Ideal
- May Ideal
- Jun Very hot
- Jul Very hot
- Aug Very hot
- Sep Good
- Oct Ideal
- Nov Ideal
- Dec Cold
March to May and September to November bring mild days. In summer Petra and Wadi Rum are very hot and visits start at sunrise.
In winter it can rain and even snow in Amman and Petra, while the Dead Sea stays mild.
Entry requirements for Jordan
US citizens get their visa on arrival, and the Jordan Pass includes it along with entry to Petra.
US passport (including Puerto Rico)
Visa on arrival or with the Jordan Pass
- Visa at the airport or border: 40 dinars.
- With the Jordan Pass the visa fee is waived if you stay at least 3 nights.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months.
Mexican passport
Visa on arrival or with the Jordan Pass
- The same options: visa on arrival or included in the Jordan Pass.
- Confirm your case when you book; we help with the process.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months.
The Jordan Pass is bought online before you travel and includes the visa plus entry to Petra (one, two or three days) and more than 40 sites, including Jerash and Wadi Rum. If you cross overland from Israel, check ahead which border crossings accept it.
Official sources: Jordan Pass (Jordan Ministry of Tourism) · U.S. State Department travel advisories
Is it safe to travel to Jordan?
Jordan is one of the calmest countries in the region and welcomes many pilgrims and travelers every year. We still review the State Department advisories before every departure.
- Petra means a lot of walking. Between the Siq, the Treasury and the tombs you easily cover 6 miles; closed shoes and water.
- Dress modestly. Cover shoulders and knees, especially outside the hotels.
- Ask about Ramadan. During that month shop and restaurant hours change.
- Carry dinars in cash. For tips and small purchases; cards work in hotels and larger stores.
Our Jordan trips
Jordan is the heart of our Exodus Journey: Wadi Rum, Petra, Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea, between Egypt and the Holy Land.
Bookings for the 2026 trip are closed. Ask us about the next departures.
Suggested itinerary: Jordan in 5 days
A north-to-south route you can extend with nights at the Dead Sea.
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Day 1
Amman and Jerash
The Citadel, the Roman theater and the Roman city of Jerash.
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Day 2
Madaba and Mount Nebo
Madaba’s mosaic map, the view from Mount Nebo and the drive south to Petra.
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Day 3
Petra
The Siq, the Treasury, the Royal Tombs and, for those who want it, the Monastery.
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Day 4
Wadi Rum
A 4x4 ride through the desert and a night in a camp.
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Day 5
The Dead Sea
An afternoon of floating and mud before heading home or crossing into Israel.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Petra?
Petra is in southern Jordan, about three hours by road from Amman and two from Aqaba. The town of Wadi Musa, next to the entrance, has hotels so you can stay there.
Is it safe to travel to Jordan?
Jordan is one of the most stable countries in the region and welcomes many travelers every year. Before every departure we review the State Department advisories and keep you informed.
What is the Jordan Pass?
A pass you buy online before the trip. It includes entry to Petra and more than 40 sites, and it also covers the tourist visa if you stay at least 3 nights in Jordan.
How many days do you need for Petra?
One full day covers the highlights; two days let you climb to the Monastery and the viewpoints without rushing.
When is the best time to visit Jordan?
March to May and September to November. Summer is very hot in Petra and Wadi Rum, and winter can be cold and rainy.
