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Jordan 🇯🇴

backpacking Asia Jordan 🇯🇴Travel desert highways linking monumental silence and stone.

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Backpacking Jordan in 2026

A complete guide including when and where to go, costs, transport, itineraries, and practical travel advice.
The big picture before you go

Backpacking Jordan
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 6, 2026

Buses leave when full, not when the timetable says. You’ll either spend money on a driver or spend time at the curb, and both choices fit the place. Drivers linger over glass-hot tea, shopkeepers pause for prayer, and your day moves at Jordan’s human rhythm.

At dawn, Petra’s sandstone warms from gray to copper as hooves echo in the Siq and cool air brushes your forearms. In Wadi Rum, wind-polished rock rises from quiet sand and the night sky spills to the horizon; I once slept out there and woke with cardamom on my breath and grit in my teeth. The Dead Sea lifts you like a raft while salt needles your shins; Jerash’s colonnades ring back your footsteps; Dana’s switchbacks carry the scent of thyme and chalk dust; Aqaba’s reefs flicker with quick, bright life. Heat is real, distances add up, prices can surprise, and modest dress matters away from resort zones. Pay with early starts, a scarf, and a little patience, and you’re repaid in shade, tea, and a deeper welcome.

Calmer to navigate than Egypt, more open to independent wandering than Saudi, and less city-forward than Israel, Jordan suits travelers who trade speed for depth—hikers, history lovers, families, and first-timers ready for a warm handshake and a slow burn.

👉 Get the 📖 Travel Guide of Jordan

Amman

Hilltops, diesel, cardamom. Amman is where you tune your pace: cash from ATMs, a local SIM, cheap falafel and bus intel from drivers who still smoke in the station doorway. It rewards street-level curiosity and late-night tea more than must-see lists. Time cost: traffic and stair-climbs. Money saver: hostels and rideshare keep costs sane. Comfort trade: noise and hills, but you control the throttle and day-trip options.

Northern Highlands (Jerash & Ajloun)

Roman stone underfoot, cicadas in the olive groves. Jerash is hands-on history; Ajloun’s castle watches a green ridge-line where you can actually hear wind in the pines. Easy out-and-back from Amman by bus or shared taxi. Cheap, but patience required for connections. Rewards independent travelers who don’t mind waiting in sun for the next seat to fill.

Petra & Wadi Musa

Sandstone stairs, calves burning, the Siq swallowing sound at dawn. Petra pays off if you sleep in Wadi Musa and enter early or via the back door from Little Petra. Expect the highest ticket prices in Jordan and inflated meals near the gate. Time-heavy, money-heavy, utterly tactile. For hikers and planners who value quiet over convenience.

Wadi Rum & Aqaba (South Spine)

A single highway links red desert to salty breeze. Wadi Rum is tea by the fire, sand in your teeth, stars like frost. Camps arrange jeep pick-ups; you trade comfort (cold nights, basic toilets) for scale and silence. Continue to Aqaba for grilled fish, cheap rooms, and shore dives. Costs balance out if you pair them.

Dead Sea & Wadi Mujib

Heat that presses, salt that bites every nick. The float is real, but showers cost unless you spring for a resort day pass. Mujib’s slot canyon is season-bound and wet; you’ll crawl, wade, laugh, bruise. Fast from Amman, high on sensory payoff. Comfort is the tax: scorching midday sun and slippery limestone.
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Why go?What draws travelers here

Scenery

Jordan rewards people who chase light. Dawn in Wadi Rum turns sandstone to ember and your boots pick … read more 👉
Jordan rewards people who chase light. Dawn in Wadi Rum turns sandstone to ember and your boots pick up the smell of hot iron and sage. The Dead Sea is a silent, metallic mirror; salt crystals bite your heels while the hills across fade to violet. Up north, Ajloun’s oak and pine give shade and birdsong; east, the black basalt desert hums with wind over old cones. Pro tip: start at Little Petra and hike the backdoor to the Monastery at first light—cool air, empty steps, and Petra’s cliffs waking up in copper.

People

Jordan runs on conversation. You’ll hear ahlan wa sahlan before you’ve found your footing, with cardamom … read more 👉
Jordan runs on conversation. You’ll hear ahlan wa sahlan before you’ve found your footing, with cardamom in the air and someone pushing a tiny glass of tea into your hand. People tease to break ice, then navigate you by landmarks, not street names. Say salaam, hand to heart; the smiles double. Pro tip: budget time for tea—five minutes becomes twenty, and that’s the good part. I once lost a morning in a Madaba bakery and gained a family lunch. Best places: corner falafel stands, intercity service taxis, evening sidewalks where oud drifts and dominos crack.

Architecture

Jordan pays off for architecture hunters because eras collide in the open air: Nabataean facades, Roman … read more 👉
Jordan pays off for architecture hunters because eras collide in the open air: Nabataean facades, Roman grids, Umayyad frescoes, Crusader walls, and Amman’s blunt concrete and glass. The trade is real—early alarms, dry heat, and a few extra dinars—but the payoff is tactile. I watched the Treasury blush pink at dawn with sand in my teeth and nobody around. Jerash smells of thyme and diesel; clap in the South Theater and hear the stone answer. Pro tip: hit Petra at first light, then detour to Qasr Amra’s frescoed bathhouse—small, quiet, and worth the dusty drive.

Food

Jordan feeds you with smoke, spice, and small kindnesses. Cardamom coffee breathes from doorways; cumin … read more 👉
Jordan feeds you with smoke, spice, and small kindnesses. Cardamom coffee breathes from doorways; cumin and lamb fat hang in the air. You trade cutlery and quiet dining rooms for plastic stools, sticky tables, and a sharp flavor-to-dinar payoff. Mansaf is messy on purpose—warm rice, tangy jameed, eaten with your hand. In Amman I hit Hashem before noon; falafel lands still hissing, pickles bright. Pro tip: save kanafeh for late, at Habibah, when the syrup is poured and the cheese squeaks. In Wadi Rum, zarb rises from sand tasting of ember and desert wind.

Low cost

Jordan treats a backpacker’s budget kindly: cardamom-thick coffee for coins, falafel snapped from the … read more 👉
Jordan treats a backpacker’s budget kindly: cardamom-thick coffee for coins, falafel snapped from the oil, and shared taxis shuttling you between dusty towns. Trade time for cash on minibuses—cheap, but you’ll wait in sun-bleached lots and ride knee-to-knee. Sleep in dorms or simple desert camps and you can live on a low double‑digit daily average. Pro tip: eat Downtown Amman (Hashem-level joints), then climb Jabal al-Lweibdeh’s stairs for free city views. Another: Little Petra is free; hike at dusk and let the rock glow while your wallet takes the night off.

Backpackers

Jordan rewards the dirt-under-fingernails traveler. Amman’s downtown hostels clatter awake with the … read more 👉
Jordan rewards the dirt-under-fingernails traveler. Amman’s downtown hostels clatter awake with the hiss of kettles and the smell of frying falafel; by noon you’ve found a ride in a battered yellow service taxi heading south. It’s not cheap like Southeast Asia, but street meals, JETT buses, and Bedouin guest tents keep costs sane. The payoff: sunrise on the Petra backdoor trail, tea by a Wadi Rum fire while the sand cools, cheap dives in Aqaba. Pro tip: buy a local SIM and small bills; I met my best trailmates at Nomads Hostel over cardamom coffee before dawn.

Uniqueness

Jordan rewards effort. You trade time on slow buses and shared taxis for silence under Wadi Rum’s cold … read more 👉
Jordan rewards effort. You trade time on slow buses and shared taxis for silence under Wadi Rum’s cold stars and the cinnamon smell of Bedouin tea. Petra demands early alarms and sore calves; the payback is sandstone glowing like embers when the tour groups still yawn. Money goes fast at the big hitters—Petra tickets and Wadi Rum jeeps cost more than a week of falafel—but buy you space and time. Pro tip: enter Petra via Little Petra before dawn; I’ve had the Monastery to myself, dust on my tongue, goats clattering somewhere below.
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⭐ HighlightsKey places and experiences

  • Petra: Step into the Siq at first light and feel the air drop ten degrees as your fingers brush cold, damp sandstone; horse sweat and leather drift past, echoing hooves ricochet in the slot. Time: start at dawn and you’ll earn quiet at the Treasury and the burn up 800 steps to the Monastery. Money: skip carriages and animals; the one-day ticket costs more than several museum entries elsewhere in Jordan, so squeeze the value by staying till sunset. Comfort: dust in your teeth, calves on fire, worth it when the rock turns copper.
  • Wadi Rum: Sand rasps under your boots and the teapot smokes with sage as the sky goes black and loud with stars; the wind lifts grains that tick against your cheeks. Time: give it a night, minimum, to catch both sunset and sunrise. Money: private jeeps push costs toward city-hotel levels; share a tour or ride in the bed to halve it. Comfort: squat toilets, chilly nights, sand everywhere—then silence big enough to swallow you.
  • Dead Sea: The water feels like warm oil
… read more 👉
  • Petra: Step into the Siq at first light and feel the air drop ten degrees as your fingers brush cold, damp sandstone; horse sweat and leather drift past, echoing hooves ricochet in the slot. Time: start at dawn and you’ll earn quiet at the Treasury and the burn up 800 steps to the Monastery. Money: skip carriages and animals; the one-day ticket costs more than several museum entries elsewhere in Jordan, so squeeze the value by staying till sunset. Comfort: dust in your teeth, calves on fire, worth it when the rock turns copper.
  • Wadi Rum: Sand rasps under your boots and the teapot smokes with sage as the sky goes black and loud with stars; the wind lifts grains that tick against your cheeks. Time: give it a night, minimum, to catch both sunset and sunrise. Money: private jeeps push costs toward city-hotel levels; share a tour or ride in the bed to halve it. Comfort: squat toilets, chilly nights, sand everywhere—then silence big enough to swallow you.
  • Dead Sea: The water feels like warm oil and salt needles bite any tiny cut; your skin dries to a tight, crystalline crust. Time: arrive an hour before sunset for gold light and space. Money: resort day passes buy showers and shade at the price of a solid dinner for two in Amman; public beaches are cheaper but rough. Comfort: wear sandals, don’t dunk your face, rinse fast.
  • Jerash: Sun on pale stone, the smell of dust and pine resin, and your whisper carries in the South Theater; if you’re lucky, a piper drills a march that shivers the seats. Time: two unrushed hours if you beat the buses. Money: a local guide costs about a couple falafel-and-tea lunches. Comfort: uneven paving eats ankles; hat and water save the day.
  • Dana Biosphere (Dana to Feynan): The trail drops through thyme and goat-scented terraces into a wide, hot valley where acacia throws a thin slice of shade and copper slag crunches underfoot. Time: 5-7 hours one-way; arrange a pickup at Feynan or pay in sweat climbing back. Money: transport out costs about what a basic room does; a guide isn’t essential on the main path. Comfort: knee-pounding descent, relentless sun, then sweet mint tea at the end. Off the map but worth the effort: Wadi Ghuweir’s palm-lined slot, the candle-lit tunnel at Shobak Castle, and basalt sunsets at Umm Qais; my own go-back choice is Wadi Ghuweir after a dry spell.
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🧭 RoutesSuggested travel routes through Jordan

The 5-Day Petra & Desert Focus

The vibe: A tight, experience-rich loop for travelers who want to go deep on Petra and the southern deserts without burning time on long transfers or big cities. Expect early starts, long walks, and slow evenings in small towns and desert camps.
The highlights:
  • Multiple entries into Petra from Wadi Musa, including the Monastery Trail
  • Context and cool air at the Petra Museum and Petra Visitor Center Exhibition
  • Village time and canyon views in Dana
  • Classic Bedouin-led jeep touring and a starry camp night in Wadi Rum

The 10-Day Jordan Essentials Loop

The vibe: A balanced first-timer route that stitches together city life, Roman ruins, holy sites, desert canyons, and one big night under the stars. The pace is steady but not rushed, using Amman and Madaba as easy bases before diving south to Petra and Wadi Rum.
The highlights:
  • Amman’s core sights, including the Roman Theatre & Jordan Folklore Museum and The Jordan Museum
  • Day trips to Jersash and Umm Qais for grand Roman
… read more 👉

The 5-Day Petra & Desert Focus

The vibe: A tight, experience-rich loop for travelers who want to go deep on Petra and the southern deserts without burning time on long transfers or big cities. Expect early starts, long walks, and slow evenings in small towns and desert camps.
The highlights:
  • Multiple entries into Petra from Wadi Musa, including the Monastery Trail
  • Context and cool air at the Petra Museum and Petra Visitor Center Exhibition
  • Village time and canyon views in Dana
  • Classic Bedouin-led jeep touring and a starry camp night in Wadi Rum

The 10-Day Jordan Essentials Loop

The vibe: A balanced first-timer route that stitches together city life, Roman ruins, holy sites, desert canyons, and one big night under the stars. The pace is steady but not rushed, using Amman and Madaba as easy bases before diving south to Petra and Wadi Rum.
The highlights:
  • Amman’s core sights, including the Roman Theatre & Jordan Folklore Museum and The Jordan Museum
  • Day trips to Jersash and Umm Qais for grand Roman streets and hilltop views
  • Mosaics in Madaba, Mount Nebo viewpoints, and a float in the Dead Sea
  • Time in Petra, capped with a desert camp experience in Wadi Rum

The 15-Day Jordan Deep Dive

The vibe: A slow, immersive circuit for travelers who want forests, oases, castles, canyons, deserts, and both seas in one long arc. You’ll stay multiple nights in most stops, trading constant motion for real time to walk, sit, and connect with each landscape.
The highlights:
  • Three nights in Amman to explore museums, mosques, and nightlife streets
  • Cooler northern hills around Ajloun Castle and the Ajloun Forest Reserve
  • Desert oases at Azraq and the Azraq Wetland Reserve
  • Hiking and village life in Dana and the Dana Biosphere Reserve
  • Extended time in Petra and Wadi Rum, ending with Red Sea swims around Aqaba and South Beach
🌍 Want a ready-to-use travel plan for Jordan?
The overview above compares different route options based on your travel time and style. The complete Travel Guide breaks each itinerary down in detail, including maps, stops, highlights, and transport information.

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🌤️ When to go?Weather, seasons, and timing

The sweet spot is mid-late March and early-mid November. Spring lifts the winter bite just enough to hike Petra without sweating through your base layer; the rock warms under your palms, and the Dana hills smell of crushed thyme. In November, the furnace of summer has bled out, nights in Wadi Rum are crisp instead of punishing, and the Red Sea still holds a swim. Tour groups haven’t fully ramped or already peeled off, so buses have seats, desert camps have space, and room rates sit below the April/October spike.
  • Peak (Spring & Autumn): Prices jump, lines form at the Siq before sunrise, and Wadi Musa sells out. The payoff: first light knifes down sandstone, Jerash’s columns ring like brass under tour chatter, and Wadi Rum glows ember-red at dusk.
  • Shoulder (Edges of Spring/Autumn): Shutters roll up slower, guides linger, and the wind shifts warm-cool with the hour. Trails feel yours, transport still runs, and the Wadi Mujib Siq Trail often opens in a short, golden window when flows are stable but the water isn’t icy.
  • Summer Furnace: Midday streets empty, cicadas buzz like power lines, and you walk inside your head. Start hikes pre-dawn, freeze water, dose electrolytes, and ride the day in shade; hit water canyons after lunch when the heat makes them a refuge.
  • Winter Quiet: Petra darkens to wine-red after rain, campfires bite sweet with acacia smoke, and you’ll have lookouts to yourself; layer a windproof shell over a light puffy and chase the sun to the Dead Sea when the highlands chill.
Book shoulder-season stays two weeks out and lock Petra at least one night, then carry a compact down layer year-round—desert nights don’t care what month it is.

source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: good for travelingFEBFebruary: good for travelingMARMarch: highly recommended for travelingAPRApril: fair for travelingMAYMay: fair for travelingJUNJune: below average for travelingJULJuly: below average for travelingAUGAugust: below average for travelingSEPSeptember: fair for travelingOCTOctober: fair for travelingNOVNovember: highly recommended for travelingDECDecember: good for traveling
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💰 Costs (as of 2025)Prices, expenses, and money tips

Plan on 35-50 JOD ($50-70) per day if you sleep in dorms, ride local buses, eat street food, and accept that Petra days spike higher.
  • dorm accommodation: 7-12 JOD in Amman and Aqaba; 10-18 JOD in Wadi Musa (Petra) and Wadi Rum villages, higher on weekends. Heat in winter often costs extra and blankets can smell faintly of diesel—bring a liner. System tip: message hostels on the morning of arrival and ask for a “no-breakfast cash rate”; I’ve shaved 2-3 JOD off listed prices this way, especially in shoulder season.
  • meals: Supermarket Survival: flatbread, labneh, olives, tomatoes, and a handful of dates runs 2-4 JOD/day if you shop where the spice bins breathe cumin into the aisle. Street food reality: falafel wraps 0.5-1 JOD, shawarma 1.5-2.5 JOD, a legit hummus/ful spread 2-3. Tourist-facing menus near Petra jump to 6-10 JOD for the same plate. Tea is 0.25 JOD in a side-street stand, 2 JOD beside the ruins. Relative value: pricier than Egypt, far cheaper than Israel; eat like a local and you’ll feel it in your wallet and your fingers, slick with tahini.
  • local transport: Minibuses are the cheapest way to unlock the country—1-2 JOD for short hops (Amman-Jerash), 3-6 JOD for longer provincial
… read more 👉
Plan on 35-50 JOD ($50-70) per day if you sleep in dorms, ride local buses, eat street food, and accept that Petra days spike higher.
  • dorm accommodation: 7-12 JOD in Amman and Aqaba; 10-18 JOD in Wadi Musa (Petra) and Wadi Rum villages, higher on weekends. Heat in winter often costs extra and blankets can smell faintly of diesel—bring a liner. System tip: message hostels on the morning of arrival and ask for a “no-breakfast cash rate”; I’ve shaved 2-3 JOD off listed prices this way, especially in shoulder season.
  • meals: Supermarket Survival: flatbread, labneh, olives, tomatoes, and a handful of dates runs 2-4 JOD/day if you shop where the spice bins breathe cumin into the aisle. Street food reality: falafel wraps 0.5-1 JOD, shawarma 1.5-2.5 JOD, a legit hummus/ful spread 2-3. Tourist-facing menus near Petra jump to 6-10 JOD for the same plate. Tea is 0.25 JOD in a side-street stand, 2 JOD beside the ruins. Relative value: pricier than Egypt, far cheaper than Israel; eat like a local and you’ll feel it in your wallet and your fingers, slick with tahini.
  • local transport: Minibuses are the cheapest way to unlock the country—1-2 JOD for short hops (Amman-Jerash), 3-6 JOD for longer provincial routes—departing when full and earliest in the morning. JETT buses are cleaner, scheduled, and still decent value for the big jumps (roughly 7-12 JOD), while shared “service” taxis fill gaps at a per-seat rate that’s cheaper than going private. In Amman, insist on the meter (“addad”) or use app rides; small bills and patience beat arguing in exhaust and afternoon heat.
  • activities: The big drain is Petra: 50 JOD for a one-day ticket. The Jordan Pass (from ~70-80 JOD) folds in the visa and major sites; if you’ll visit Petra plus even a couple of extras (Jerash ~10 JOD, Amman Citadel a few JOD), it pays. Wadi Rum jeep + Bedouin camp runs 25-35 JOD with dinner and desert silence under bright, cold stars. Dead Sea access is either free but rough around the public stretches or 20-40+ JOD for resort day passes. Skip Petra by Night; put that money toward a second daylight entry when the sandstone glows pink and the crowds thin.
  • miscellaneous: Budget leaks: ATM fees (3-5 JOD a pop), bottled water markup at sites (2 JOD vs 0.25 JOD in town), unmetered taxis, coffee “with a view,” alcohol (beer 4-6 JOD). A SIM with data is good value (7-10 JOD) and stops you from overpaying out of confusion. My rule: buy juice two streets back; I once paid 4 JOD at a Petra overlook, then found the same orange press for 1 JOD behind a dusty bakery where the air smelled like sesame and hot bread. Relative to neighbors: you’ll spend more than in Egypt, far less than in Israel; plan accordingly.
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutJordan Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
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The digital guide (264 pages) contains:
✅ 69 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
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🛏️ Where to stay?Accommodation types and options

Yes—hostels, budget guesthouses and cheap hotels are widely available in Jordan, especially in Amman, Wadi Musa (Petra), Aqaba and near Wadi Rum, with basic dorms, private rooms and Bedouin camps as common low‑cost choices.

In Amman prioritize Downtown/Al‑Balad for the absolute cheapest beds and best transport links but expect noise; choose Jabal al‑Weibdeh or Rainbow Street for safer streets, cafes and nightlife at slightly higher rates; the Abdali district is more modern and convenient for buses but has fewer ultra‑cheap options.

Outside the capital, Wadi Musa puts you within walking distance … read more 👉
Yes—hostels, budget guesthouses and cheap hotels are widely available in Jordan, especially in Amman, Wadi Musa (Petra), Aqaba and near Wadi Rum, with basic dorms, private rooms and Bedouin camps as common low‑cost choices.

In Amman prioritize Downtown/Al‑Balad for the absolute cheapest beds and best transport links but expect noise; choose Jabal al‑Weibdeh or Rainbow Street for safer streets, cafes and nightlife at slightly higher rates; the Abdali district is more modern and convenient for buses but has fewer ultra‑cheap options.

Outside the capital, Wadi Musa puts you within walking distance of Petra and clusters most budget places but gets crowded during peak season; Aqaba has beach access, diving and nightlife with seasonal price jumps; and around Wadi Rum expect remote camps or basic guesthouses that require transfers yet deliver the cheapest, authentic desert experience, while Madaba is a quiet, inexpensive base for nearby attractions.

If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option.

Best hostels in Jordan


Best quality hotels in Jordan

🚌 Getting aroundPublic transport and other ways to get around

Jordan moves on a horn tap and a nod. In Amman, the big blue JETT coaches pull out on the minute; beyond the city, time loosens. Minibuses idle under sun-faded signs, engines rasping, the smell of diesel and cardamom coffee mixing in the heat. Routes exist, but departures happen when seats fill. You learn to wait with purpose: bag at your feet, small bills in hand, eyes on the driver’s cigarette. When it’s go-time, it’s sudden. You climb fast or miss the day.
  • JETT intercity coaches The blunt tool
… read more 👉
Jordan moves on a horn tap and a nod. In Amman, the big blue JETT coaches pull out on the minute; beyond the city, time loosens. Minibuses idle under sun-faded signs, engines rasping, the smell of diesel and cardamom coffee mixing in the heat. Routes exist, but departures happen when seats fill. You learn to wait with purpose: bag at your feet, small bills in hand, eyes on the driver’s cigarette. When it’s go-time, it’s sudden. You climb fast or miss the day.
  • JETT intercity coaches The blunt tool that actually keeps time. Seats are padded, AC hums, and doors shut exactly when they say they will. You pay roughly twice a minibus fare but erase the gamble: no hour-long waits, no detours to collect cousins. Departures are limited, so miss one and your day collapses. They drop you at official stops, not doorsteps—budget for a short taxi hop in Petra, Aqaba, or the Dead Sea towns. Predictable, fast, and worth it when distance is big.
  • Coaster minibuses This is the daily bloodstream. Find them at city depots; morning is everything. After lunch the seats trickle, on Fridays they evaporate. Greet the driver, keep small bills, pass your fare forward, and don’t wedge yourself beside a solo woman unless invited—families appreciate space. Your pack may ride in the aisle or under a seat; keep valuables on you. When you want off, speak up early; the stop is a glide to the curb, not a ceremony. Expect diesel, laughter, and Quran radio mixing with pop.
  • Shared service taxis (servees) The time hack locals use: pay per seat in a sedan, four passengers plus driver, leave when full. Per-seat cost is a notch above a minibus, far below a private taxi, and usually faster door-to-door for Jerash, Madaba, or Karak. Say “servees,” not “taxi,” or you’ll be quoted the private rate. If you’re in a rush, buy the empty seat to depart immediately. No meter, fixed fares; have exact change and confirm the destination before the engine even coughs.
  • Wadi Rum 4x4 pickups The desert refuses buses. From the Visitor Center or Rum Village, only pickups and Bedouin 4x4s thread the canyons and sand flats. You can slide into an existing truck for a cheaper seat—dust in your teeth, wind in your ears, sunset pouring gold on the rock. Tie a scarf; sand needles your face. Stash big bags at the village, bring water, and accept that the clock out here is solar, not digital.

Master tip: Build your day around the earliest fixed departure you can find (usually JETT), then use one flexible leg (minibus or servees) to finish—never plan two gamble-legs after noon; if it’s past lunch and you still have distance left, buy a seat in a servees and buy back your time.
Distance: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) is about 32 km (20 miles) south of central Amman (Downtown/4th-5th Circles).

Main ways to get into the city
  • Sariyah Airport Express Bus

    The dedicated airport bus runs between the terminal and central Amman with stops including 7th Circle, 5th Circle, 4th Circle, and Tabarbour (North Bus Station). You’ll find the bus stand and small ticket booth just outside Arrivals.

    Frequency: About every 30 minutes during the day, hourly overnight (operates around the clock).

    Travel time: 45-60 minutes to the central circles, up to 70 minutes to Tabarbour depending on traffic.

    Cost: Around 3.3 JOD one-way (cash to the driver or at the kiosk).
  • Ride-hailing (Uber/Careem)

    Pickups are allowed; follow the app to the designated pickup area outside Arrivals.

    Travel time: 35-50 minutes, traffic-dependent.

    Cost: Typically 12-20 JOD to Downtown/Abdali; can surge at peak times.

Taxis: Official airport taxis queue outside Arrivals and use fixed-zone pricing (you can also get a coupon/receipt at the desk). Expect roughly 20-30 JOD to central Amman, a bit more late at night or for farther neighborhoods. Travel time is usually 35-50 minutes.
⚠️ Prices and routes can change, so take this as a rough guide and ask for local advice when you arrive.

🔒 Safety (risk Level: medium)Staying safe while traveling

Safety for solo travelers, including women and LGBTQ+ individuals
Jordan is generally considered safe for solo travelers, including women and LGBTQ+ individuals, but exercise caution and respect local customs. Women may face occasional street harassment, so dressing modestly and being mindful of your surroundings can help. LGBTQ+ travelers should be discreet, as public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention due to conservative societal norms. Always check the latest travel advisories and connect with fellow travelers for updated, on-the-ground insights.


Full official government travel advisory (live updates)
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safety image

source: www.gov.uk

✈️ VisaVisa requirements for Jordan

Most travelers need a visa to visit Jordan, but you can easily get a visa on arrival at the airport or border for around 40 JOD. Alternatively, apply for a Jordan Pass online before your trip, which includes visa fees if you stay at least three nights. Check if your nationality qualifies for visa on arrival or any exemptions.

source: jordan.embassy.gov.au
⚠️ Visa requirements can change over time, so always check the latest visa requirements with the official embassy or government website before you travel.

🎒 What to pack?What to wear and bring

Expect a mix of climates in Jordan, from the scorching desert heat in Wadi Rum to chilly nights in Petra—layers are your best friend. While Amman can get pretty chilly in winter, Aqaba stays warm, so pack accordingly. Keep in mind that Jordan is a conservative country, so modest clothing is key, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Women should consider packing a scarf to cover their heads when visiting mosques. Plus, sturdy shoes are essential for exploring the rugged landscapes and ancient ruins.

Apart from this country specific advice, I have also crafted a general packing list that should help on any trip. authorOver the years, I've learned the importance of packing minimally. It's so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you're headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.

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🎒 Planning the practical side of your trip?
Get detailed information on transport, daily budgets, internet access, local customs, food, language, and other essentials in the complete Travel Guide.

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🙋 FAQFrequently asked questions

Trip Planning



Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.


Travel Essentials

Check your routine vaccines like MMR, DTP, and the flu shot. Consider getting vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B, especially if you plan to eat street food or stay long-term. Typhoid vaccine is recommended if you’ll be in rural areas or trying varied local foods. Rabies is only essential if you’re planning to explore caves or interact with animals. Always check for the latest travel advisories.


vaccination requirements
When I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.

These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Jordan, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.

There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.


Get your e-sim for Jordan

Culture & Customs

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Women should cover shoulders and knees; carrying a scarf can be handy. Public displays of affection are frowned upon.

When invited to a home, remove your shoes and bring a small gift. Accept food or drink with your right hand.

For LGBTQ+ travelers, discretion is advised as homosexuality is not widely accepted. Women may face some harassment; traveling in groups or with a male companion can help.

Avoid discussing politics or religion unless you’re sure of the other person’s views. Respect prayer times and avoid loud behavior near mosques.
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Jordan.
  • Mansaf: The national dish of Jordan, Mansaf is a lamb dish cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt called jameed and served with rice. It’s a symbol of Jordanian hospitality and often served at festivals and large gatherings.
  • Maqluba: Literally meaning ”upside down,” Maqluba is a hearty, layered dish of meat, rice, and fried vegetables, flipped over to serve. It’s popular for its rich flavor and is often a highlight at family dinners.
  • Falafel: Though common across the Middle East, Jordanian falafel is known for its unique spice blend and crunchy texture. It’s a street food staple and a must-try for its delightful simplicity.
  • Kunafa: A sweet cheese pastry soaked in sugar syrup, Kunafa is a dessert favorite. It’s particularly popular during Ramadan and is a great way to end a meal on a sweet note.
  • Galayet Bandora: This simple, yet flavorful dish consists of tomatoes, onions, and meat cooked in olive oil. It’s a staple in Jordanian homes and represents the straightforward yet delicious nature of local cuisine.
Locals in Jordan often drink tap water, but it’s not recommended for tourists due to differences in water treatment standards and potential contamination. Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any stomach issues. Always check the seal on bottled water to ensure it’s not been refilled.
The main language in Jordan is Arabic. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Arabic skills have become a bit rusty.

Want to understand locals better?
The complete Travel Guide for Jordan includes 52 essential words and phrases — greetings, thank-yous, ordering food, transport, numbers, and common local expressions you'll actually hear.

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In Jordan, English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among the younger population. As a result of its historical ties, tourism, and education, many Jordanians are proficient in English, making it relatively easy for English-speaking travelers to communicate. Most hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant employees can converse in English, and signs in tourist areas are often bilingual.

In larger cities like Amman, you will find a higher level of English fluency, while in more rural areas, English may be less prevalent. However, even in these regions, locals are generally friendly and willing to help, often using basic English or gestures to communicate.

Overall, travelers should feel comfortable navigating Jordan with English, although learning a few basic Arabic phrases can enhance the experience and foster goodwill with locals.

Money & Payments

The local currency of Jordan is JOD (د.ا).

Cash is King: While larger cities like Amman have plenty of ATMs, smaller towns might not. Always have some cash on you, especially for rural areas. Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is the currency you’ll need; dollars and euros aren’t widely accepted.

ATMs: Stick to ATMs at reputable banks. They’re generally reliable, but keep some backup cash just in case. Watch out for international transaction fees, and let your bank know you’re traveling to avoid any card blocks.

Card Acceptance: Credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, but expect to pay cash in local eateries and markets. Visa and Mastercard are your best bet.

Currency Exchange: Exchange rates at the airport are usually a rip-off. Instead, find exchange offices or banks in the city. Rates are generally fair, but always check before you hand over your cash.

Safety Tip: Split your cash and cards into different places in your backpack to avoid losing everything at once. Nothing kills the vibe like being stuck without funds in the middle of your adventure!

In Jordan, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. It’s common to leave around 10% in restaurants if service isn’t included, and a few dinars for hotel staff or taxi drivers. Always carry small bills to make tipping easier.

🧩 Nearby countriesNearby backpacking alternatives

📸 PhotosScenes from around the country

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Photographed by: Johan Kruseman

We 💚 feedbackKey takeaways from the trip

Jordan pays off if you give it daylight and patience. You trade cushy schedules for dawn on red stone, diesel on the breeze, cardamom in your cup. Buses wander; nights bite in Wadi Rum; Petra taxes your legs and your wallet—Jordan Pass softens the sting. Small grace: someone will hand you tea the moment you look lost. It’s getting easier: Amman’s BRT clicks into place, card payments spread, Jordan Trail signage improves, and rangers push drivers off fragile desert crust.

✈️ When did I visit Jordan?
Jordan I visited in a trip together with Syria in August 2004. Originally written after my visit, this guide has been kept up to date with input from locals and recent travelers (last update: 14 February 2025)

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Jordan, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



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👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

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