Petra 10 days

The main international airport serving Jordan, located about 30 kilometers south of Amman. It's the primary entry point for most international visitors.

Travel from Amman to Petra. Options include private taxi, JETT bus (a comfortable tourist bus service), or rental car. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours.

• JETT buses offer a reliable and budget-friendly option. Check their schedule online.
• Renting a car provides flexibility for exploring beyond Petra.

The town adjacent to Petra, serving as the main hub for visitors. Here you'll find hotels, restaurants, and shops.

• Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
• Many hotels offer dinner options.

Begin your Petra exploration here. Purchase your tickets, pick up maps, and get oriented with the site. The Petra Museum is also located here.

• The Jordan Pass includes Petra entry if purchased before arrival.
• Allow time to visit the Petra Museum for historical context.

A narrow, winding gorge, over 1 kilometer long, that serves as the main entrance to Petra. Towering cliffs on either side create a dramatic, awe-inspiring approach.

• Keep an eye on the rock carvings and water channels along the way.
• The Siq can be crowded; an early start is recommended.

Petra's most iconic monument, carved directly into a sandstone cliff. Its intricate Hellenistic facade is a breathtaking sight that emerges at the end of the Siq.

• Arrive early to avoid the largest crowds and get the best light for photos.
• You can pay a small fee to take photos with a camel in front of the Treasury.

Beyond the Treasury, this area features a row of monumental Nabataean tombs carved into the cliff face. Nearby is a large Roman-style theater, also carved from rock.

• Imagine the bustling city life that once surrounded these structures.
• Climb a short way up to the theater for a different perspective.

Located near the end of the main basin area, this restaurant offers a buffet-style meal with local Jordanian dishes. It's a convenient spot for a midday break within the site.

A magnificent set of monumental tombs situated high on the cliff face overlooking the city center. These include the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb, showcasing impressive Nabataean and Roman architectural influences.

• The climb up offers great views back over Petra.
• The interiors of the tombs are less decorated but architecturally significant.

A challenging but rewarding hike up approximately 800 rock-cut steps to one of Petra's largest and most impressive monuments. The Monastery is similar in style to the Treasury but even grander.

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry plenty of water.
• There are small cafes at the top offering refreshments.

This trail leads to an ancient Nabataean altar offering panoramic views of Petra's vast landscape. It's a significant archaeological site with obelisks and a fascinating ritualistic setting.

• This hike can be done in either direction, or as a loop with other trails.
• The views from the top are spectacular.

An immersive dining experience where you first learn to cook traditional Jordanian dishes in a hands-on class, then enjoy the meal you helped prepare. Reservations are essential.

• This is a popular activity, so book well in advance.
• The class is a great way to learn about local cuisine.

A smaller, less crowded Nabataean site north of Petra. It features carved buildings, cisterns, and some rare Nabataean frescoes, offering a glimpse into daily life.

• It's a good place to escape the main crowds and see Nabataean domestic architecture.
• Look for the well-preserved painted ceilings.

The small village adjacent to Little Petra, offering a more rural and authentic Jordanian experience. You might find local Bedouin families selling crafts or offering tea.

• Engage respectfully with locals; a smile and a few Arabic words go a long way.
• Support local artisans if you choose to purchase souvenirs.

Experience authentic Jordanian cuisine away from the tourist-centric Petra restaurants. Look for smaller, family-run eateries in Wadi Musa town for a more local flavor.

• Try 'Mansaf' if available, Jordan's national dish.
• Ask your hotel for recommendations for authentic local spots.

Located at the Petra Visitor Centre, this modern museum provides excellent context for the Nabataean civilization, their trade routes, and the history of Petra through artifacts and displays.

• Visiting after exploring Petra can help you understand what you've seen.
• It's included with your Petra entry ticket.

A moderately challenging hike that leads you above the Treasury, offering the iconic postcard view from a cliff-top Bedouin tent. It's a fantastic photo opportunity.

• Start the hike from the Royal Tombs area.
• Be prepared for rocky terrain and some steep sections.

This less-traveled trail offers a quieter experience, passing by interesting tombs like the Garden Tomb and the Roman Soldier's Tomb. It's a good option for exploring off the main path.

• This trail can be accessed from the main path after the Theater.
• It offers a different perspective on Nabataean and Roman influences.

An atmospheric experience where the Siq and the Treasury are illuminated by thousands of candles. Traditional Bedouin music and tea are offered. This event runs on specific nights (usually Monday, Wednesday, Thursday).

• Check the schedule for Petra by Night in advance as it's not daily.
• It's a different experience than visiting during the day; focus on the ambiance.

Travel from Petra to the Wadi Rum Protected Area. This can be done via private taxi, rental car, or a pre-booked tour that includes transport.

• Many Wadi Rum camps offer pick-up from Wadi Rum Village or the Visitor Centre.
• Consider booking a tour that includes transport and a jeep tour.

The entry point to the Wadi Rum Protected Area. Here you can get information, pay the entrance fee (if not included in your tour/camp package), and meet your Bedouin guides.

• Ensure your Wadi Rum accommodation or tour operator has arranged your pickup.
• This is the last point with reliable cell service for many.

Explore the dramatic desert landscape of Wadi Rum in a 4x4 jeep. Tours typically visit iconic sites like Lawrence's Spring, Khazali Canyon, and sand dunes, often with stops for photos and short walks.

• Tours vary in length and itinerary; discuss options with your guide.
• Sunset is a particularly magical time for a jeep tour.

Experience traditional Bedouin hospitality by staying overnight in a desert camp. Options range from basic tents to luxury glamping domes, usually including dinner and breakfast.

• Many camps offer traditional Zarb (underground BBQ) for dinner.
• Stargazing in Wadi Rum is exceptional due to minimal light pollution.

Witness the spectacular sunrise over the desert landscape from your camp or a nearby vantage point. The changing colors of the sand and rock formations are unforgettable.

• Wake up early to catch the best light.
• Enjoy a traditional Bedouin breakfast afterwards.

Travel from Wadi Rum to the Red Sea resort town of Aqaba. This journey is typically made by taxi or pre-arranged transfer.

• Aqaba is Jordan's only coastal city, known for its beaches and diving.
• Arrange transport with your Wadi Rum camp or book a taxi.

Settle into your accommodation in Aqaba. The city offers a range of hotels, from beachfront resorts to budget-friendly options.

Explore Aqaba's historic center, visit the Aqaba Fort (Mamluk Castle), and wander through the bustling souk. It's a more relaxed city experience compared to Amman.

• The fort offers insights into Aqaba's strategic past.
• The souk is a good place to find local crafts and spices.

Aqaba is renowned for its fresh seafood. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants along the coast or in the city center.

• Many restaurants allow you to choose your fish and how it's prepared.
• Enjoy the sea breeze at a restaurant with outdoor seating.

Aqaba is a prime destination for diving and snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life accessible from shore or by boat. Many dive centers operate from Aqaba.

• The Japanese Garden and Cedar Pride shipwreck are popular dive sites.
• Consider a boat trip for access to more remote reef locations.

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of Aqaba's many cafes or restaurants located along the Red Sea coast. Many offer stunning views of the water.

Head south of the main city to find less crowded public beaches and private resorts. This area is excellent for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the Red Sea.

• Some resorts charge a day-use fee for access to facilities.
• Bring your own snorkel gear for easy access to reefs.

Relax with a drink at a bar overlooking the Red Sea as the sun sets. Many hotels and resorts have bars offering a tranquil atmosphere.

Travel back to the capital city, Amman. Options include the JETT bus, private taxi, or rental car. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours.

• The JETT bus is a comfortable and economical option.
• Book bus tickets in advance if possible.

Settle into your hotel in Amman. The city offers diverse neighborhoods with various accommodation styles.

A historic site atop Jabal al-Qal'a, offering panoramic views of Amman. It features ruins from Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad periods, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace.

• Visit the Jordan Archaeological Museum located within the Citadel.
• The views of the city, especially at sunset, are spectacular.

A vibrant and lively street in Amman known for its cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and shops. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to socialize and explore.

• Explore the side streets for smaller boutiques and cafes.
• Great place for dinner and people-watching.

A modern museum showcasing Jordan's history, culture, and archaeological treasures, including the Dead Sea Scrolls and a replica of the Mesha Stele. It provides excellent context for the country's rich heritage.

• Allow ample time to explore the diverse exhibits.
• It's a good way to understand Jordan's place in ancient history.

Explore the bustling heart of old Amman, with its traditional souks, spice shops, sweet vendors, and historic buildings. It's a sensory experience of local life.

• Try some local sweets like Kunafa from Habibah Sweets.
• Haggling is expected in the souks.

Dine at a traditional restaurant in downtown Amman for classic Jordanian dishes like falafel, hummus, or shawarma. These eateries are often busy and authentic.

Depart from Jordan's main international airport. Allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.

• Ensure you have all necessary travel documents ready.
• There are duty-free shops and cafes within the airport.