Jordan

Jordan packs Petra, the desert of Wadi Rum, Roman cities and the Dead Sea into a country the size of Portugal, with good roads between them. A one-week loop from Amman covers the main sites comfortably. It is more expensive than its neighbours, largely because of site entry fees and accommodation.

Cities

Amman

Amman spreads over a series of hills, with a Roman theatre and citadel in the downtown bowl and a modern café scene on the western slopes. It is the arrival point for almost every trip and the base for day trips to Jerash and the Dead Sea. Two days is enough before heading south.

Aqaba

Aqaba is Jordan's Red Sea port, with warm water year-round and coral reefs a few metres from the beach, including a deliberately sunk aircraft and cargo ship. It is the natural warm-weather stop after Petra and Wadi Rum. Diving and snorkelling are the reason to stay.

Wadi Musa

Wadi Musa is the town at the gate of Petra and exists almost entirely to serve it. Two full days inside the site allow the main colonnade plus the Monastery and the High Place of Sacrifice trails. Petra by Night runs on set evenings and is a separate ticket.

When to go

See all seasons

• Spring: Mild days, wildflowers in the north, the best hiking season.
• Summer: Very hot in Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea; early starts essential.
• Autumn: Warm and settled, the second peak season.

Entry & visas

Entry rules for this country aren't published here yet.

Always confirm entry rules with the official source before you book.