Jordan is a compact, welcoming country packed with world-class sites — Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, Jerash, and more. In 2025 Jordan is even easier to visit thanks to more flight options and improved tourist infrastructure. Below is a practical planning guide that covers the best times to visit, how long to stay, daily budgets, transport options, and a sample itinerary to help you book with confidence.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
- Spring (March–May): Best overall — comfortable temperatures and wildflowers.
- Autumn (September–November): Great for hiking and desert camping; fewer crowds than peak summer.
- Summer (June–August): Hot (35–40°C). Ideal for Dead Sea & Aqaba beach days; travel early/late to avoid midday heat.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Cooler, occasional rain in the north — good for lower prices and quieter sites.
Tip: For mild weather and lighter crowds pick early March or late October.
How Long Should You Stay?
Jordan is surprisingly compact — you can cover the highlights in a short time or linger for a deeper experience.
- 3–4 days: Quick highlights — Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea (fast-paced).
- 6–8 days: Ideal — Amman, Jerash, Madaba, Dead Sea + Petra and Wadi Rum.
- 10+ days: In-depth — add Dana Reserve, Ajloun, northern sites, and more slow travel experiences.
Pro tip: If you only have a week, base in Petra for 2 nights to explore fully without rushing.
Budgeting Your Trip (Daily Averages)
Costs vary with season and travel style. Below are approximate daily per-person ranges in USD for 2025 planning.
| Category / Style |
Budget |
Mid-Range |
Luxury |
| Accommodation |
$25–60 |
$70–150 |
$180+ |
| Meals |
$10–25 |
$30–60 |
$80+ |
| Transport & Tours |
$20–60 |
$70–120 |
$150+ |
| Entrance Fees / Activities |
$15–50 |
$60+ |
$100+ |
- Save with the Jordan Pass — includes many entry fees and waives the visa if you stay the required nights (check current terms when booking).
- Eat at local restaurants and street stalls for great food at low cost.
- Book accommodations and major tours in advance for better rates in peak months.
Getting Around Jordan (Transport Options)
Choose the transport option that fits your comfort, schedule, and budget:
- Private driver / guided tour — Comfortable and efficient, excellent for groups or limited time. Expect around USD $120–150/day for car + driver (varies by route).
- Self-drive rental — Freedom to explore. Rentals often start at USD $35/day. Roads are generally good and signage is in Arabic and English.
- Public buses — Cheapest option; reliable intercity buses like JETT connect Amman, Petra, and Aqaba (schedules limited for smaller sites).
- Grouped day tours / shared minivans — Budget-friendly compromise; many departures from Amman or Petra.
Pro tip: Combine a rented car with local guides at major sites (Petra, Jerash) to save money while learning from experts.
Sample 7-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Amman — explore downtown & Rainbow Street.
- Day 2: Jerash & Ajloun — Roman ruins and castle views.
- Day 3: Madaba & Mount Nebo — mosaics and panoramic views; afternoon at the Dead Sea.
- Day 4–5: Petra — allow two days to explore the Siq, Treasury, Monastery, and nearby trails.
- Day 6: Wadi Rum — jeep tour, Bedouin camp experience and stargazing.
- Day 7: Return to Amman or continue to Aqaba for beach time and flights home.
Customize based on arrival/departure cities — flying into Aqaba lowers travel time for southern-focused trips.
Practical Tips & Final Thoughts
- Bring comfortable walking shoes — many sites have uneven paths and stairs.
- Carry a refillable water bottle; hydration is important, especially in summer.
- Respect local customs: modest dress in towns and religious sites is appreciated.
- Check visa rules and the Jordan Pass terms before booking (these change occasionally).
- Book key experiences (Petra entry, Wadi Rum jeep tours, Dead Sea activities) in advance during peak months.
Jordan packs a huge amount into a small area — a smart plan means less stress and more memories. Whether you have 3 days or 10+, 2025 is a great year to discover (or rediscover) this extraordinary kingdom.