I recently spent two weeks in Jordan, and I have so much to share!
Is Jordan worth visiting? I think yes, absolutely – I absolutely loved my time there.
There are a few things to think about as well, so let’s dig into the reasons to visit Jordan AND considerations when planning a trip.
Reasons to visit Jordan
Jordan is one of the most rewarding places to visit in the Middle East.
Here, ancient history (Amman is one of the world’s oldest capitals) intertwines with Mediterranean and desert scenery, plus the locals are some of the friendliest I’ve ever met.
Here’s why Jordan should be on your travel bucket list!
Incredible history
Civilisations have come to and left Jordan for thousands of years – leaving behind ruins, temples and ancient cities.
From Roman amphitheatres to Crusader castles, Neolithic settlements to heritage railways, Jordan is like an open-air museum!
Some of the standout historical sites include Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy, and Kerak Castle, a massive Crusader fortress that looms over the town with the same name.
The Desert Castles are scattered across Jordan’s eastern desert and have a mix of Umayyad, Byzantine, and Roman influences – while the Hejaz Railway, originally built for pilgrims to Mecca (it ran from Syria to Saudi Arabia) is visitable in some places – and in Wadi Rum, there’s even a heritage railway ride!
Other fascinating historical sites include Petra, Jordan’s poster child and the lost city of the Nabataeans – with its world-famous Treasury and Monastery carved into the rock.
Umm Qays (once the Roman city of Gadara), has sweeping views over the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights – we found this area quite emotional as we learned the stories of the surroundings, but it was probably the most worthwhile stop on our Jordan itinerary.
Umm El Jimal, often called the ‘Black Desert City,’ is an ancient Nabataean and Roman settlement built entirely from black basalt stone. It’s Jordan’s newest UNESCO site (and we were the only people there).
Breathtaking landscapes
Jordan’s scenery is incredibly varied. In fact, it has multiple microclimates and you can go from completely different terrain in less than an hour.
There are endless red desert sands, deep canyons with hidden waterfalls and the vast salt waters of the Dead Sea – the lowest point on Earth.
The landscapes constantly change as you travel through the country. The hills around Petra give way to the red dunes of Wadi Rum, where towering rock formations rise from the desert floor.
In the north, Umm Qays basks in a Mediterranean climate, with olive groves and rolling green hills that contrast sharply with the arid landscapes further south.
The Basalt Desert in the east is a striking, volcanic expanse which leads to the border of Iraq.
Warm and welcoming people
Jordanians are known for their hospitality.
Wherever we went, we found people to be kind and welcoming – we were invited for tea at locals’ houses numerous times!
The Bedouin tradition of welcoming strangers is still alive and well – I didn’t meet a single unfriendly person the entire time we were there.
Delicious food
Jordanian food is full of big flavours, fresh ingredients and generous portions!
Whether it’s a plate of falafel from a street stall, a warm dish of mansaf (Jordan’s national dish), or a spread of mezze with hummus, mutabal and fresh bread – you definitely won’t go hungry!
This goes back to Jordanian hospitality – locals like to make sure that their visitors are well fed!
Religious significance
Jordan is home to some of the most important religious sites in the world.
Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land, overlooks the Jordan Valley.
The Baptism Site on the Jordan River is one of the holiest places in Christianity.
Islamic history is equally significant, with ancient mosques and pilgrimage routes running through the country.
I’m not religious in the slightest, but I still found these places fascinating and absolutely worth visiting.
Adventure
If you’re looking for adventure, Jordan has it!
You can hike through dramatic canyons in Wadi Mujib or camp under the stars in Wadi Rum. The Red Sea has some of the best diving and snorkelling in the region, while the mountainous trails in Dana and Ajloun are perfect for trekking.
It’s very safe
Jordan is one of the safest countries in the Middle East for travellers.
Crime rates are low, and tourism is well-supported with good infrastructure and security. It’s unaffected by conflict in neighbouring coutnries.
We felt 100% safe the whole time we were in the country (aside from a few traffic issues!).
Considerations for visiting Jordan
While I think most people would love a trip to Jordan, there are a few considerations to make when planning a trip here.
Alcohol and gambling laws
Alcohol is available in Jordan but isn’t widely sold outside of international hotels, tourist areas and a few liquor stores. Bars exist in Amman and Aqaba, but drinking in public is not common.
Gambling is not permitted anywhere in Jordan. This includes both in-person casinos and online slots.
Weather
Jordan’s climate varies significantly depending on the time of year.
- Summer (June – August) can be extremely hot, especially in the desert regions like Wadi Rum and around the Dead Sea, where temperatures can exceed 40°C.
- Winter (December – February) can be surprisingly cold, particularly in Amman, Petra and the northern highlands, where temperatures can drop close to freezing. Because a lot of buildings aren’t kitted out for the cold, they can be really chilly inside!
- The best time to visit is spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November) when temperatures are more comfortable.
Transport
Jordan’s public transport is very limited – buses run between major cities but many of the country’s best spots are inaccessible without private transport.
If you want to visit lesser-known places like Dana, Umm Qays, or the Desert Castles, you’ll need to either rent a car (we used Monte Carlo) or book organised tours (I use and recommend Get Your Guide).
Uber and Careem (local ride hailing app) are available in Amman but aren’t widely used elsewhere.
Visiting during Ramadan
Ramadan is a fascinating time to visit Jordan, as you can witness local traditions and experience Iftar (the meal breaking the fast at sunset).
However, it also means that many restaurants and cafés are closed during the day, and it’s not appropriate to eat, drink or smoke in public before sunset.
Hotels and tourist sites still cater to visitors, but you’ll need to plan meals carefully!
Dress code
Jordan is a conservative country, and while tourist areas are more relaxed, it’s respectful to dress modestly.
Women should cover shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Men typically wear trousers rather than shorts outside of beach destinations.
Safety and travel advisories
Jordan is socially very safe – I felt much safer there than I have in many European cities. But do check and stay updated with government travel advisories – like the FCDO for the UK – before visiting.
WHO would love a trip to Jordan?
- Families – Jordan is a great family-friendly destination. The locals love children, and you’ll find plenty of activities to keep them entertained, from exploring Petra’s Siq, taking a camel ride in Wadi Rum or floating in the Dead Sea. Accommodation is welcoming for families, and Jordan’s food is simple enough for even picky eaters.
- Couples – Jordan is an incredibly romantic destination for adventurous couples. Watching the sunset over Wadi Rum, hiking together through Dana Biosphere Reserve, or enjoying a private Dead Sea spa experience are all dreamy. There are also plenty of boutique hotels and unique stays.
- Solo travellers – Jordan is one of the safest countries in the region for solo travellers. Public transport is limited, but it’s easy to join group tours. Locals are helpful, and it’s common to be invited for tea!
- Over 50s – Jordan’s mix of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it an excellent choice for mature travellers. Many historical sites have easy access, and private drivers and tours can make travel between locations more comfortable. Luxury hotels in Amman, Petra and the Dead Sea cater well to those looking to chill!
- Religious travellers – With deep connections to Islamic, Christian and Jewish history, Jordan is a fascinating destination for religious travellers. Whether visiting Mount Nebo, the Baptism Site of Jesus, or the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Jordan offers an insightful and meaningful journey for those interested in faith-based travel.
If Jordan’s been on your bucket list, I highly recommend planning a trip! It’s a wonderful country and you’ll be welcomed warmly wherever you go.
