Looking for a perfect Jordan itinerary 4 days? This guide covers essential spots and experiences to make the most out of your short trip.
Discover Amman’s vibrant culture, explore the ancient city of Petra, experience the breathtaking Wadi Rum desert, and relax at the Dead Sea.
Key Takeaways
- Jordan offers a Jordan Pass for convenient access to attractions and waving visa fees, making travel more economical.
- The itinerary highlights must-see sites like Amman’s citadel, the ancient city of Petra, and the desert scenery of Wadi Rum.
- Stay a night or two in Wadi Rum, to experience Bedouin life firsthand and watch the stars like nowhere else.
- The best times to visit are spring and fall, ensuring pleasant weather for exploring outdoor attractions
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- Key Takeaways
- BOok YOur Wadi RUm Experience today.
- Before You Go: Essential Travel Information for Jordan
- Day 1: Arrival to Jordan and Exploring Amman
- Day 2: Journey to Petra and Exploring the Hidden Treasures of the Rose City
- Day 3: Embark on Your Wadi Rum Adventure
- Day 4: Dead Sea Relaxation
- Visa Requirements and Jordan Pass
- Transportation Options
- Best Time to Visit
- Summary
- Subscribe to Wadi Tribe.
- Frequently Asked Questions
Before You Go: Essential Travel Information for Jordan
Before embarking on your Jordanian adventure, it’s important to be aware of some key travel details. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date into Jordan. Visas can be conveniently obtained on arrival at various entry points, including airports.
To streamline your trip, consider buying the Jordan Pass in advance. Along with covering your visa fee, the Jordan pass includes entry fees to some of Jordan’s biggest attractions, including Petra and Wadi Rum. It is available in three different price tiers, depending on how many days you want to be visiting Petra.
Moreover, the Jordan Pass waives entry fees to the Wadi Rum Protected Area, too. Without the Jordan Pass, you will be asked to be the regular Wadi Rum entry fees. But more on that later.
Jordan provides various transportation options for getting around. Options include renting a car upon arrival at the airport, using public transport, such as lager tourist buses or smaller local mini buses, or private tours for a tailored experience.
In Jordan, the currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JD), often referred to as the Dinar. The Jordanian Dinar is one of the strongest currencies of the world. Other currencies, such as Dollar or Euro are not commonly accepted in Jordan.
The ideal times to visit Jordan are during spring and fall, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for travel activities. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures for exploring outdoor attractions and engaging in various adventure activities.
With the essentials covered, let’s dive into your ideal itinerary for 4 days in Jordan, the safest country of the Middle East.
Day 1: Arrival to Jordan and Exploring Amman
Your journey begins with your arrival at Queen Alia International Airport. From there, your most hassle-free option is to grab a ride from one of the popular ride-hailing apps. As you make your way to the city center, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant metropolis bustling with life and teeming with history.
Must-See Places of Amman
Amman boasts a treasure trove of historical sites and cultural experiences. Begin your exploration at the Roman Theater, a 2nd-century structure that stands as a testament to the city’s rich past. From the Roman Theater, make your way to the Amman Citadel, where you can wander through the ancient ruins of the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace.
To savor traditional Jordanian cuisine, visit local favorites like Al Quds and Hashem. Don’t miss trying Mansaf, a traditional dish made with lamb and rice, or indulge in a sweet treat from Habiba, known for its delicious Nabulsi Kunafa.
For a change of pace, climb one of the hills close to the city center that is home to Rainbow Street. On Rainbow Street, you will find a ton of alternative souvenir stores, second-hand shops and cozy book cafés. We highly recommend making your way here for an afternoon at least. Oh yeah, and please say hi to the cats from us!
Stay the night in one of Amman’s cozy boutique hotels or save some money while staying in a hostel in the city center. Our personal favourite was The Cabin Hostel Amman.
Day 2: Journey to Petra and Exploring the Hidden Treasures of the Rose City
On the second day, set off on a road trip from Amman to Petra. Upon arriving in Wadi Musa, the gateway to Petra, you’ll be ready to explore one of the world’s most renowned archaeological sites. The ancient city of Petra, once referred to as the Lost City, is not only a must-see, but a truly unforgettable experience that we could’t recommend more to anyone visiting Jordan.
Scenic Drive via King’s Highway
The three-hour journey from Amman to Petra in Southern Jordan is filled with breathtaking scenery. Driving along the King’s Highway offers stunning views of majestic mountains, historic Crusader castles, and charming villages that narrate Jordan’s rich heritage.
If you opted for a rental car, be sure to take time to enjoy the scenic beauty and stop along the way to explore charming villages and historical sites. This road trip is about more than just reaching your destination; it’s about immersing yourself in Jordan’s beauty at your own pace. Some of the most notable places on your way from Amman to Petra are Madaba, Karak Castle and Montreal Castle.
Visiting Petra
Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, defies description. Built into the sandstone rock of the region, we could not have been more impressed by the shier amount of construction that must have taken places thousands of years ago in Petra. Built and inhabited by the Nabataeans, an ancient civilisation of the Levant, Petra boasts a long history that even includes some Roman elements.
Upon arrival the Petra visitor center, make sure to present your Jordan Pass to gain free access to the premises of Petra as well as the neighbouring museum. We recommend visiting Petra for at least one full day.
As you wander past cave dwellings and through the Siq, a narrow gorge, you will arrive at the first (and most busy) attraction, the Treasury. This is the main photo spot of Petra, but by far not the only thing to see.
Beyond the Treasury, Petra reveals treasures like the Street of Facades and the Grand Monastery. Each turn reveals a new marvel, showcasing the Nabateans’ ingenuity through rock-cut architecture with yet another ancient Roman Theater, mausoleums and temples.
For an unforgettable experience, visit Petra early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the site in soft morning light. Also, make sure to bring enough water and snacks, if you are planning to make it all the way to the monastery. The hike there will take between two to three hours for the average visitor.
After your visit to the ancient city of Petra, it’s time to take a rest and fuel up for the next day. Your hotel for the night will be located in Wadi Musa, the modern-day settlement bordering Petra. Pick a hotel close-by for convenience or save money by walking a bit longer.
Day 3: Embark on Your Wadi Rum Adventure
Begin day three with an early start, heading to the enchanting Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon. This surreal desert landscape, with its towering cliffs and expansive sand dunes, provides a perfect backdrop for adventure. If you are heading down by rental car, make a stop on your Petra Wadi Rum commute to take in the view of the Dead Sea in Aqaba.
For more information on how to get to Wadi Rum from Petra, make sure to read our guide “How to Get to Wadi Rum from Petra”.
Experience a Jeep Tour in Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum is one of Jordan’s natural wonders, easily justifying its fame. Its otherworldly landscapes, including sandstone formations and red sand dunes, have set the scene for countless films and inspired travelers worldwide, to come and explore the Wadi Rum desert.
A jeep tour is an excellent way to explore Wadi Rum’s dramatic landscapes. An English-speaking Bedouin guide will take you to landmarks like the Lawrence’s Spring, Khazali Canyon and the mesmerizing Red Sand Dunes. Each stop provides breathtaking views and photo opportunities capturing the unique beauty of this desert valley.
Traversing the sand dunes and rock bridges, you will no only learn about Wadi Rum’s natural wonders, but also about its rich history and the heritage of the Bedouin people that call Wadi Rum home. The guided tour is an adventure and an educational experience, connecting you with the region’s history and Bedouin way of life.
Book your guided tour with Wadi Tribe, to make the most out of your time in Wadi Rum and support local Bedouin families.
Overnight Stay in a Bedouin Camp
As the sun sets, prepare for an unforgettable overnight stay in a Bedouin camp. This experience immerses you in Bedouin culture and traditions, not just sleeping in the desert. Enjoy a traditional Jordanian dinner under the stars with an amazing Zarb and listen to desert stories, creating lasting memories.
We strongly recommend booking a Wadi Rum tour that includes your jeep tour and stay in a Bedouin camp. This way, you will not have to worry about anything during your stay in the Wadi Rum desert and you will save money on the way.
Day 4: Dead Sea Relaxation
Wake up to the desert’s tranquility the next morning, enjoy a buffet-style breakfast, and prepare for the next leg of your journey. Following the excitement of Wadi Rum, a relaxing day at the Dead Sea is perfect. The four-hour drive from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea is rewarded with a serene environment. As the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea is famous for its therapeutic benefits and unique natural beauty.
For more information on how to get to the Dead Sea from Wadi Rum, make sure to have a look at our guide “How to Get to the Dead Sea from Wadi Rum”.
Floating in the Dead Sea
Floating in the Dead Sea is one of Jordan’s most unique experiences. The high salt concentration makes sinking nearly impossible, allowing you to float effortlessly. This natural buoyancy is fun and provides a sense of relaxation and tranquility.
Enhance your experience by applying mineral-rich mud from the sea’s shores. This mud is known for its therapeutic properties, leaving your skin rejuvenated and refreshed. The combination of floating and mud treatment creates a perfect natural spa day.
Return to Amman
As your journey ends, it’s time to return to Amman. The drive offers picturesque views of Jordan’s diverse landscapes, providing a final chance to soak in the country’s beauty. Back in Amman, you might have time for one last meal or a quick visit to a favourite spot before preparing to depart from Amman International Airport.
Visa Requirements and Jordan Pass
Most travelers can get a visa on arrival in Jordan, with a single entry visa costing about 40 JD (approximately 56 USD). For savings, the Jordan Pass is an excellent option. The pass covers the visa fee and provides access to over 40 attractions, including Petra and Wadi Rum, making it more cost-effective than the visa.
The Jordan Pass waives the visa fee and offers significant savings on entry fees to major sites. For instance, the entrance fee to Petra alone is typically 50 JD, so the Jordan Pass can save you about 20 JD compared to paying for the visa and entrance separately. It even offers a complete free historic train ride experience in the Wadi Rum desert.
Transportation Options
Getting around Jordan is straightforward with several transportation options available. Renting a car is popular, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. Rental prices start at around 54 JD (77 USD) for four days, making it affordable for most travelers.
Public transportation can be quite convenient via the national JETT bus company. Local mini buses might be more of a hassle during a short visit. However, taxis are widely available and practical for shorter trips within cities.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal times to visit Jordan are during spring and fall, when the weather in places such as Wadi Rum is most favorable for travel. Spring, in particular, offers pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, making it an ideal time for outdoor explorations.
Fall also provides comfortable conditions for adventure travel and sightseeing, allowing you to enjoy Jordan’s attractions without the extreme heat of summer or the chill of winter. Plan your trip during these seasons to make the most of your visit to this beautiful country.
Summary
In just four days, you can experience the best of Jordan, from the bustling city of Amman to the ancient wonders of Petra, the surreal landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea. This itinerary ensures you see Jordan’s highlights while providing a balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 4 days enough to visit Jordan?
Four days is enough time to see the highlights of Jordan, especially Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. You can either focus on these three or explore additional spots like Aqaba or Madaba if time permits.
How many days is ideal for Jordan?
For an ideal experience in Jordan, it’s best to spend at least 7 days. This allows you to explore key sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and Amman more leisurely. We recommend spending an additional night in Wadi Rum, the embark on a thrilling desert hike with views reaching deep into Saudi Arabia.
Do I need a visa to enter Jordan?
Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Jordan, but you can get a visa on arrival for about 40 JD. Alternatively, consider getting the Jordan Pass beforehand, which covers your visa fee and allows access to over 40 attractions, including Petra and Wadi Rum.
What is the Jordan Pass, and should I get it?
The Jordan Pass is a travel package that not only covers your visa fee but also grants access to many attractions like Petra, saving you both time and money. If you’re planning to explore the country extensively, it’s definitely worth considering!
What is the best way to travel around Jordan?
The best way to travel around Jordan is to rent a car for its flexibility, or you can use ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem for convenience. Both options will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. For cheaper prices, get familiar with the national JETT bus company.
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