Jordan 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Jordan Itinerary: A Taste of the Ancient World

This itinerary focuses on exploring some of Jordan’s most iconic historical sites. It assumes you’ll be starting in Amman, Jordan’s capital city. If your arrival point is different, adjust accordingly.

Day 1: Petra, the Lost City

  • Morning: Arrive at Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman and transfer to a hotel near the entrance to Petra.

  • Things to do:

    • Explore the Siq: Walk through this narrow, winding gorge leading into Petra’s heart.
    • Admire the Treasury: Marvel at the Treasury, Al-Khazneh, the most famous monument in Petra. Be sure to capture its beauty with a photo!
    • Visit the Monastery and the Roman Amphitheatre: These are two of the other must-see sights in this ancient wonder.

  • Things to know:

    • The Siq is a long, narrow passage that leads visitors into the ancient city. It’s a stunning experience but be prepared for crowds and lots of walking.
    • Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking in hot weather (unless it’s cooler in the off-season).
    • Bring plenty of water!

  • Transportation:

    • Consider hiring a car with a driver to get to your hotel near Petra’s entrance, allowing for a flexible exploration of the city.

Day 2: Wadi Rum & Desert Adventures

  • Morning: A jeep tour through Wadi Rum is a must-do! Explore the dramatic desert landscape, marvel at the towering sandstone cliffs and experience the thrill of riding camels through the sand dunes.

    • Wadi Rum: This vast desert expanse is known for its breathtaking beauty and Martian landscapes.

  • Things to know:

    • Wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
    • Carry a jacket as desert temperatures can fluctuate greatly.
    • Drink plenty of water and be aware of the heat.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy a sunset jeep ride through the desert.

  • Evening: Sleep under the stars in a Bedouin camp.

Day 3: Wadi Rum & Amman

  • Morning: Spend the morning hiking in the canyons and climbing rock formations.

  • Transportation:

    • Jeeps are the primary mode of transportation within Wadi Rum.

  • Afternoon: Return to civilization from Wadi Rum and take a relaxing dip in the Dead Sea before heading back to Amman.

  • Things to know:

    • The Dead Sea is known for its high salt content, which makes it very buoyant. Be careful not to get water in your eyes!
    • Bring a waterproof bag or case to protect your belongings while at the Dead Sea.

Other things to consider:

  • Weather: Jordan has hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Check the weather forecast for your travel dates and pack accordingly.

  • Visa Requirements:

    • Check the latest visa requirements for your nationality as they can change.
    • A Jordan Pass is a highly recommended option for tourists who want to visit multiple sites. It offers free entry to many attractions and discounts on others.

  • Currency: The Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is the official currency. Most places accept major credit cards, but it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

  • Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Food & Drink:

  • Jordan Pass: This is a great option as it includes free entry to all major Jordan attractions (including the Petra site) and allows you to skip the line at many sites.**
  • Food: Be sure to try traditional Jordanian cuisine like mansaf, hummus, falafel, and knafeh.

Things to know about the Jordan Pass:

  • This pass is a must-have for anyone wanting to experience the wonders of Petra and Wadi Rum.**
  • Includes:
    • Free entry to over 40 tourist sites in Jordan, including the Petra Archaeological Site
    • Free visa on arrival (for most nationalities)
    • Jordan Pass holders have access to free and discounted entry at various historical attractions

Things to know about travel:

  • Transportation: This is a good opportunity for a private car transfer.
  • Accommodation: Wadi Rum has many campsites, but it’s always a good idea to book in advance.

Things to know about the Dead Sea:

  • Safety: The Dead Sea’s high salt content can be dangerous if you get it in your eyes.

  • Culture & History: This is a chance to experience ancient history and archaeological wonders.

  • Food: Explore local cuisine like Mansaf (national dish of lamb cooked in a bed of rice) or try the traditional Bedouin meal, cooked over an open fire.

  • Jordanian food is known for its fresh ingredients and delicious flavors.

Things to consider:

  • Transportation: The Dead Sea is easily accessible by a car with a driver.
  • Safety: Always remember to shower after leaving the Dead Sea.

Enjoy your trip!