Petra 2 weeks

Amman's international airport, the primary gateway for most international travelers to Jordan. It features modern facilities and a range of services for arriving passengers.

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

• The JETT bus is a comfortable and affordable option, book tickets in advance.
• Rental cars offer flexibility for exploring beyond Petra.

A mid-range hotel located at the entrance of Petra. Offers comfortable rooms and a convenient base for exploring the ancient city. It has an on-site restaurant.

• Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
• Consider hotels within walking distance of the Petra Visitor Center.

The modern town adjacent to Petra, serving as the primary tourist hub. It offers a variety of hotels, restaurants, and shops catering to visitors.

• Explore the local market for souvenirs.
• Wadi Musa has ATMs and pharmacies for essential needs.

The starting point for exploring Petra. Here you can purchase tickets, get maps, and rent audio guides. It also houses a museum and facilities.

• Purchase your Jordan Pass online before arriving if you plan to visit other sites in Jordan.
• The Petra archaeological park ticket price varies depending on how many days you plan to visit.

A narrow, winding gorge over 1km long, flanked by towering sandstone cliffs. It serves as the dramatic entrance to the ancient city of Petra, leading visitors to the Treasury.

Petra's most iconic monument, a magnificent facade carved directly into the sandstone cliff. Its intricate Hellenistic architecture is breathtaking and a highlight of any visit.

• Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds and for the best light for photos.
• There are Bedouin stalls offering camel and horse rides here, but be prepared to negotiate prices.

A row of monumental Nabataean tombs carved into the rock face, located beyond the Treasury. These facades showcase impressive architectural styles and offer a glimpse into ancient burial practices.

A large, Roman-style theatre carved into the mountainside by the Nabataeans, capable of seating thousands. It offers a unique blend of Nabataean and Roman architectural influences.

A local restaurant in Wadi Musa offering traditional Jordanian cuisine. It's a good spot for dinner after a day of exploring Petra.

A series of impressive tomb facades carved high into the cliff face, including the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb. They offer spectacular views over the Petra basin.

An ancient Nabataean ritual site atop a mountain, offering panoramic views of Petra. The climb involves steep steps but rewards with a unique historical perspective and stunning vistas.

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes.
• Bring plenty of water, as there are no facilities on the trail.
• Consider hiring a local guide to understand the site's significance.

Located along the trail descending from the High Place of Sacrifice, these tombs are less grand but offer interesting architectural details and a sense of discovery.

A popular restaurant in Wadi Musa known for its authentic home-style Jordanian dishes. A great place to try local specialties in a cozy atmosphere.

Petra's largest monument, a colossal facade carved high in the mountains, similar in style to the Treasury but even larger. Reaching it requires a hike of about 800 steps.

• The hike is strenuous; start early and carry water.
• Donkeys are available for hire to ride up, but consider animal welfare.
• The views from the Monastery are expansive; continue to nearby viewpoints for even more dramatic panoramas.

A less-traveled trail that offers a different perspective of Petra, passing by the Garden Tomb, Roman Soldier Tomb, and ending near the Theatre. It's a good alternative route for descending.

Located near the Petra Visitor Centre, this modern museum provides excellent context to Petra's history, culture, and archaeology through displays and artifacts.

• Visit this museum at the beginning or end of your Petra exploration for better understanding.

A unique bar located inside a Nabataean tomb near the entrance of Petra. It's a popular spot for a relaxing drink after a long day of sightseeing.

• The bar is part of the Petra Guest House Hotel.

A smaller, less crowded version of Petra, featuring Nabataean carved dwellings, temples, and a triclinium with rare painted frescoes. It's believed to have been a suburb or trading post for Petra.

• Easily accessible by car or taxi from Wadi Musa.
• Look for the well-preserved painted frescoes inside one of the structures.

A small village near Little Petra, offering a glimpse into local Bedouin life. You might find small shops or opportunities to interact with local communities.

A hands-on cooking class where you learn to prepare traditional Jordanian dishes, followed by enjoying the meal you've cooked. A highly recommended cultural experience.

• Book this experience well in advance, as classes fill up quickly.
• The class typically starts in the afternoon and includes dinner.

Enjoying the delicious Jordanian meal prepared during the cooking class. This is the culmination of the Petra Kitchen experience.

The entry point to the Wadi Rum Protected Area. Here you can arrange jeep tours, meet your Bedouin guides, and learn about the desert's unique environment.

Explore the vast desert landscape of Wadi Rum in a 4x4 jeep, visiting iconic sites like Lawrence's Spring, sand dunes, rock bridges, and ancient inscriptions.

• Choose a tour duration that suits your preference (half-day, full-day).
• Many tours include stops at natural rock bridges and viewpoints.

A natural spring in Wadi Rum, named after T.E. Lawrence who described it in his writings. Offers a picturesque view of the desert landscape.

A scenic canyon within Wadi Rum, offering opportunities for short hikes and exploration amidst towering sandstone formations.

Spend the night in a traditional Bedouin camp, enjoying local hospitality, dinner, and stargazing under the clear desert sky. Options range from basic to luxury camps.

• Book your camp in advance, especially if you want a specific type of experience (e.g., luxury tent).
• Dinner is typically a traditional 'Zarb' (cooked underground).

Witness the magical sunrise over the desert landscape of Wadi Rum. The changing colors of the sand and sky create a spectacular natural display.

Experience the traditional Bedouin mode of transport with a camel ride through the Wadi Rum desert. It offers a peaceful and authentic way to see the landscape.

• Camel rides are often arranged through your Bedouin camp.

A small Bedouin village on the edge of the desert. It serves as a hub for tours and accommodation and offers a chance to see local life.

Travel back from Wadi Rum to your accommodation in Wadi Musa. This allows for another evening to explore local dining or relax.

Experience dinner at a restaurant in Wadi Musa that offers a tent-like ambiance, often serving a mix of local and international dishes.

Drive from Wadi Musa to the Dana Biosphere Reserve, a stunning area known for its diverse ecosystems and traditional village.

A picturesque village nestled within the Dana Biosphere Reserve. It's one of Jordan's oldest villages, characterized by stone houses and breathtaking views.

• Wander through the narrow alleyways and admire the traditional architecture.
• Visit the local craft center for handmade souvenirs.

The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature visitor center for Dana. Here you can get information about hiking trails, conservation efforts, and guides.

Explore some of the diverse hiking trails within the reserve, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes with incredible geological formations and diverse flora and fauna.

• The 'Wadi Dana Trail' is a popular moderate hike.
• Hire a local guide for longer or more challenging treks.

Experience a unique dining experience at Feynan Ecolodge, known for its sustainable practices and delicious Bedouin-inspired meals. It's located deeper within the reserve.

• Feynan Ecolodge offers overnight stays as well, providing a truly immersive experience.

Travel from the Dana Biosphere Reserve area to the coastal city of Aqaba on the Red Sea. This is a longer travel day.

Enjoy fresh seafood or local cuisine upon arrival in Aqaba. The city offers numerous restaurants overlooking the Red Sea.

Settle into your accommodation in Aqaba. Options range from beachfront resorts to city hotels.

Stroll along Aqaba's waterfront promenade. It's a lively area with cafes, shops, and views of the Red Sea and neighboring countries.

A popular seafood restaurant in Aqaba known for its fresh catch and pleasant ambiance. Enjoy dinner with views of the Red Sea.

A protected area south of Aqaba, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Ideal for snorkeling and diving.

• Book a boat trip or visit one of the public access points.
• Respect the marine environment; do not touch corals or disturb wildlife.

Embark on a guided snorkeling or diving excursion to explore the underwater wonders of the Red Sea, including colorful coral gardens and shipwrecks.

A historic Mamluk-era castle located in the center of Aqaba. It offers insights into the region's past and features a small museum.

A well-regarded restaurant in Aqaba serving delicious Jordanian and Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly known for its grilled meats and mezze.

A conservation area dedicated to migratory birds. It's a peaceful spot for birdwatching and enjoying nature, especially during migration seasons.

Explore the local market in Aqaba for souvenirs, spices, traditional crafts, and local products. It's a vibrant place to experience local commerce.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on one of Aqaba's public or private beaches. Enjoy the sun, swim in the Red Sea, or simply unwind.

A restaurant offering a pleasant dining experience with Red Sea views. Known for its seafood and international menu.

Travel from Aqaba towards the Dead Sea region to access Wadi Mujib, a spectacular canyon reserve.

Experience the thrill of hiking through the 'Siq' canyon of Wadi Mujib, involving wading through water, swimming, and navigating narrow passages. This is a guided adventure.

• This activity is seasonal (typically April-October) and weather-dependent.
• Life vests are mandatory and provided.
• Wear quick-drying clothes and water shoes.

Have lunch at a restaurant near the Wadi Mujib entrance or on the way back towards your accommodation. Options might be limited.

Drive back to Aqaba after a day of adventure in Wadi Mujib.

Travel from Aqaba to a resort area on the Dead Sea for a unique floating experience.

Float effortlessly in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea and indulge in therapeutic mud treatments. Many resorts offer day passes.

• Do not shave for at least 24 hours before entering the Dead Sea.
• Rinse off thoroughly with fresh water after floating.

Enjoy lunch at the resort where you are experiencing the Dead Sea. Buffets or à la carte options are usually available.

Travel from the Dead Sea to Amman, Jordan's capital city.

Settle into your accommodation in Amman.

A very popular and historic restaurant in downtown Amman, famous for its traditional Levantine cuisine, especially falafel and hummus. It's a no-frills, authentic experience.

• Expect queues during peak hours.
• Cash only.

A historic site featuring Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad ruins, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace. Offers panoramic views of Amman.

A well-preserved 2nd-century Roman theatre in downtown Amman, capable of seating approximately 6,000 spectators. It's a prominent landmark.

The national museum of Jordan, housing artifacts that cover the country's history from prehistory to the present day, including significant Nabataean and Roman finds.

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

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