Your 10-Day Jordanian Adventure Itinerary
Days 1-2: Amman - The Ancient Capital
Your journey begins in Amman, Jordan's vibrant capital. Fly into Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) and head to your accommodation. The first evening is for acclimatizing. If you have the energy, kick off your trip with an exceptional meal at Fakhr El-Din, known for its superb local cuisine and excellent Jordanian wine.
On Day 2, dive into the city's history:
Morning: Take a taxi to the Citadel, perched on Amman's highest hill. Here you'll find a tapestry of Jordan's past, from the Roman Temple of Hercules to a Byzantine church and the grand Umayyad Palace.
Sunset: Witness a breathtaking sunset at the King Abdullah II Mosque.
Dinner: Head to the famous Rainbow Street for dinner at Sufra Restaurant. Its authentic Middle Eastern dishes, impeccable service, and cozy atmosphere make it a must-visit.
Day 3: Jerash & Ajloun - A Roman Holiday
Arrange for a private driver for the day—a non-negotiable for maintaining flexibility. After an early breakfast, drive 50 minutes north to Jerash. Spend the morning exploring what are considered some of the best-preserved Greco-Roman ruins outside of Italy. The temples and amphitheaters are truly a sight to behold.
On your way back to Amman, stop at Ajloun Castle. This 12th-century fortress, built atop Mt ‘Auf as a strategic stronghold against the Crusaders, offers stunning views across the Jordan Valley and a fascinating lesson for any history enthusiast.
Day 4: Wadi Mujib & The Dead Sea - Adventure and Relaxation
An early start is crucial. Head to Wadi Mujib, a world-famous biosphere reserve. Arrive before the crowds to secure your spot for canyoning—it's first-come, first-serve. You'll be given a life jacket and guided through stunning passages and waterfalls. It's a thrilling experience that feels raw and adventurous.
After your canyoning adventure, journey to the lowest point on Earth: the Dead Sea. Before checking into your resort, consider a quick stop at Mount Nebo, the biblical site where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land.
At the Dead Sea, indulge in the ultimate relaxation. To get the full experience, splurge on a 5-star resort like the Kempinski Ishtar, which offers private beach access, showers, and the famous mineral-rich mud. Cover yourself from head to toe in the therapeutic mud for an unparalleled skincare treatment.
Day 5: The Dead Sea to Petra - A Night of Magic
If time allows, enjoy one last float in the Dead Sea at sunrise. On your way to Petra, you can make an optional stop at the Jordan River, the reputed site of Jesus's baptism, where you can see across to Israel.
Plan your arrival in Petra to experience Petra by Night (available only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays). This enchanting event involves walking through the Siq, a narrow gorge lit by over 1,500 candles, to arrive at the Treasury. Seeing this iconic facade illuminated by candlelight is a spellbinding, almost mystical experience that you won't forget.
Day 6: Petra - The Lost City
Petra is vast, spanning over 60 miles. To do it justice, you need a full day. Arrive as soon as the gates open to beat the crowds and the midday heat. Spend 8-10 hours exploring the tombs, temples, and monasteries carved into the pink sandstone cliffs. Leave with enough time to travel to your next destination, Wadi Rum, before sunset.
Days 7-8: Wadi Rum - The Martian Landscape
Welcome to Mars on Earth. The arid, red-rock landscape of Wadi Rum is otherworldly. The best way to explore this massive desert is with a full-day jeep tour (typically 9 am to 4 pm), which will take you to iconic sites like Lawrence Springs, Khazali Canyon, the Red Sand Dunes, and the impressive Burdah and Um Frouth rock arches.
For accommodation, immerse yourself in the experience by staying in a luxurious Bedouin camp in the heart of the desert. In the evening, enjoy an authentic Jordanian Zarb—a delicious barbecue slow-cooked in an underground oven.
Days 9-10: Aqaba & The Red Sea - Underwater Wonders
After days in the desert, it's time for the coast. Head to Aqaba, a town on the shores of the Red Sea known for its world-class diving. The coral reefs here are gorgeous and teeming with marine life.
For the best experience, head to the South Red Sea, where the reefs are in pristine condition and you'll encounter fewer crowds. Dive sites like Marsa Alam and Elphinstone Reef offer chances to see sharks, turtles, and a kaleidoscope of colorful fish.
On Day 10, your epic Jordanian journey concludes. You can either make the 5-6 hour drive back to Amman for your flight home or, for greater efficiency, fly out of Aqaba with a connection in Amman.
