About Jordan

Nestled in-between the war-torn countries of Syria and Iraq, Jordan is the last neutral Arab state and solo travel in Jordan can be challenging but it is a fascinating country to explore. One of the main Jordan tourist attractions is Petra, the ‘Red Rose’ city which attracts hoards of visitors each year and is worth the flight alone.

The year 2012 saw the 2000th year of rediscovery of this magical site that belonged to the Nabataean civilisation. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place of timeless beauty with a kaleidoscope of colours and royal tombs.

The Treasury itself is enough to leave you breathless before climbing the 800 steps to the Monastery that stands 50 metres tall. If the climb gets too much, donkeys are on hand to give you that well-needed ride. One of the fun things to do in Jordan.

It is safe to visit Petra solo. Visit Petra at night for one of the candlelit Petra tours, held on Mondays and Thursdays but being there at dusk is just as magical in this heritage site, half as old as time. Entry here isn’t cheap but the proceeds are given to the Queen Eilah humanitarian fund and the local Bedouins. You may want to pay for entry for two days instead of one to give you more time, as a Petra tour is a must do in Jordan.

Wadi Musa is the gateway to Petra. Although it is touristy being so close to one of the popular Jordan attractions, it still retains its Jordanian charm and is the place to relax before and after witnessing one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

When in Wadi Musa, make sure to venture to “Little Petra,” (called Sia al-Barid). This lesser-known site (a 15-minute ride north of the main Petra) is also a Nabataean site and has the same carved facades as its older sibling. There’s a Treasury, stone temples and a canyon. Plus, you won’t encounter all the crowds at the main site either.

* Click here to discover all activities and best things to do in Jordan

The Monastery in Petra

From here you can travel two hours to Wadi Rum desert, one of the country's natural wonders and famous things in Jordan as it was once the setting for the film, Lawrence of Arabia. Red creamy dunes, basalt and sandstone mountains make Wadi Rum a truly magical destination and the definition of pure peace. Bedouin families live here in the Jordanian desert and some even have up to 2000 relatives! A four hour private tour will cost 35 JD and take you through the Wadi Valley to the seven pillars of wisdom, Lawrence Spring and the ruins of his house.

You can also trek amongst the red sand dunes or take a jeep tour. Walking from Wadi Rum to the Saudi Arabian border will take five nights sleeping in Bedouin camps along the way. Wadi Rum is our favourite place on Earth and is one of Jordans’ most iconic destinations.

Wadi Rum, Jordan

Things To Do in Amman

Amman is the capital and getting around Amman on foot is doable for a spot of Jordan sightseeing as you can walk around the sites in less than a day. You can also base yourself here as there are several day trips and Jordan tours from Amman. Is Amman Jordan safe? Yes. The locals are very hospitable and will ask you if you need any help if you look lost. 

Public transportation in Amman consists of buses and shared taxis where you pay a fixed fare and the driver picks up others along the way. If you’re willing to part with some cash, pay a driver to take you as it’s a fair walk to the beautifully decorated Turkish Mosque, one of the places to visit in Jordan Amman. King Abudullah Mosque known as the Blue Mosque is also stunning. You can hire an abaya (black robe) to enter the mosque and gaze at its blue design. There’s also a great little bizarre selling jewellery, candles and embroidery.

The Roman amphitheatre sits within the bustling capital. There’s also a folklore museum which used to be the holding place for the lions in the gladiator days. For great views of the city walk up the crumbling steps to the peaceful Citadel which sits high on a hill above Amman.

There is an Archeological museum on the site that has artefacts dating back centuries and will teach you all about the Islamic and Jordanian culture.

Even though it’s a Muslim country you can find alcohol served in restaurants and bars along with shisha in the outdoor coffee shops of Rainbow Street, a funky street with artisan shops and modern bars. Don’t forget to try Knafeh when you're travelling to Amman, a traditional sweet made of cheese and sugary syrup and cardamon coffee. 

Amman Citadel

If holy sites are more your thing, Jordan is bursting with them. Visit Madabah, on the Kings Highway, one of the most revered holy sites known for its famous mosaics. Other Biblical sites are Mount Nebo, Lot’s Cave, Elijah’s Hill and Bethany-beyond-the-Jordan where Jesus is believed to have been baptised before the new Christian era began.

Head East for desert castles, examples of Islamic art and architecture and some of the best Jordan sites to visit. You can see five of Jordan’s castles within a day trip: El Halabad Palace, Esrock Palace, Umrah Palace and El Harrana Palace. But if you only have time to see one castle, Karak is the one to see and is an impressive insight into the ancient Crusader days.

Jordan will surprise you and if you have time, visit the North of Jordan to find Mediterranean scenery, olive groves, citrus fruits and banana plantations to old Roman towns. Jerash is the second most popular tourist destination after Petra, (although we think it should be Wadi Rum) and is known as a ‘Rome away from Rome’ with its ancient Roman ruins. It’s also the highest producer of olive oil in Jordan.

Ruins of the basalt church in Umm Qais

Further north is the ancient town of Umm Qais, 378 metres above sea level which used to serve as a key trading route from Syria to Palestine. The route takes you near the Syrian border (30 minutes away). Umm Qais is the perfect viewpoint to see the surrounding borders; the Sea of Galilee in Israel, Jordan and Syria.

The old Decapolis city is made out of black basalt and is the only place that has a black and white Roman theater and church. This area should definitely be on your itinerary and even the route past volcanic stones is worth seeing. But you don’t have to go all the way to Umm Qais to see Israel as there’s a viewpoint at Pella, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities.

From here you can travel south through Jordan Valley to the creme de la creme; the Dead Sea, one of the biggest tourist attractions in Jordan. The Dead Sea is bordered by Israel and is the lowest point on Earth at 400 metres below sea level. It is said that the Jordan River (the major water source into the Dead Sea) is the source of all holy water in Christianity. Being one of the Jordan tourist spots, you simply have to experience floating in the Dead Sea.

Going solo is no problem as everyone is happy and smothering themselves with mud packs that you can’t help but leave with a smile on your face. Once the saline waters have cleansed your skin, you’ll be looking and feeling good too. Unless you stay in one of the hotels along the Dead Sea, you have to pay to enter the beach area. Amman Beach is the cheapest at £15.

Abu Darwish Mosque in Amman

The very southern point of Amman is Aqaba, which borders Eilat in Israel. It was chosen as the Arab Tourism City of 2011 and although it’s Jordan’s only coastal city, you still may have to cover up if you’re on your own. It is very touristy with shops, markets, restaurants and bars and is an ideal place to explore the Red Sea coral reefs and wrecks.

There isn’t really that much in regards to entertainment in Jordan but one of the unique things to do in Jordan is to absorb yourself in Bedouin storytelling at the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Around a campfire at Rummana Campsite you can learn more about the Bedouin traditions.

Other places to visit in Jordan are: Dana, a preserved old stone village with simple living, wildlife and hiking routes through its nature reserve. The Dana Biosphere Reserve sits on the edge of the spectacular Great Rift Valley and is an eco dream. Explore other nature reserves at Ajlun, Wadi Mujib and Azraq Wetland Reserve.

Jordan has the added benefit of not being too crowded, except for peak times at Petra and if you like history, biblical sites, pampering and ancient ruins, it’s a great place to come.

Jordan Tips

• The call to prayer takes place 5 times a day and you have to hire a black gown to enter the mosques which aren’t open to the public on a Friday.
• Jordan is a nation of smokers so order a non-smoking room if you don’t smoke.
• Taxi drivers may tell you that your hotel has burned down and try and take you elsewhere where they get commission so pre-arrange a transfer or take the bus instead.
• Avoid Ramadan where you are not permitted to eat or drink after dawn. The dates change each year so check dates before you travel.

Jordan Adventures & Tours

G Adventures Jordan

Jordan can be slightly challenging to get around by yourself so you may feel more comfortable in a group for either part of your trip or the whole duration. G Adventures is a responsible tour company which mainly caters towards budget travellers. Most tours have an average of 10 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book your trip you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there.

Adventures start from a 4 day Explore Petra & Wadi Rum Independent Adventure, a G Adventures highlights of Jordan trip for 8 days starting and ending in Amman, to a 22 day G Adventures Egypt and Jordan trip including Israel. I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female friendly company. * Check rates and availability for G Adventures Jordan tours

Intrepid Travel Jordan

Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each tour. Over 50% of people using their trips are solo travellers. They tend to use hotels instead of hostels and have a more comfortable style of accommodation hence the trips can appear a bit more costly than G Adventures.

Their Intrepid Jordan trips start from 3 day tour to Jordan discovering Petra Uncovered to a 24 day Middle Eastern Discovery through Jordan from Egypt to Turkey. To see Jordan, with both tour companies you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room. Read our Intrepid Travel Reviews

Day Tours

Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and tours in worldwide destinations including Jordan. Choose from a full-day tour of Petra, an excursion to Wadi Rum, or a day tour to the Dead Sea from Amman. There are several to choose from and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check rates and availability for Jordan day tours

Accommodation in Jordan

Jordan has a selection of accommodation whether you prefer budget, eco or luxury. You’ll find hostels in Amman, Petra and the beach resort of Aqaba as well as 2 to 5 stars hotels and resorts. Treat yourself to luxury and a spa at one of the posh Dead Sea Resorts, or spend an evening under the stars in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum. .

You’ll also find all types of accommodation on Airbnb such as hotels, apartments and local’s homes with stunning views of Petra, the ‘Red Rose’ city. The accommodation below have been recommended by solo female travellers and are the best places to stay in Jordan as a solo.

For all other hostels and hotels in Jordan check rates and availability for all accommodation in Jordan here

Amman – Dali House – $

This 3-star hotel Amman is ideal for those on a modest budget looking to self-cater. Rooms come with air conditioning, your own private kitchen with a stove and a dining area. Located near the Downtown area near coffee shops, restaurants and a supermarket, you can walk to the Temple of Hercules, the Al Hussainy Mosque and Rainbow Street. The owner and the staff are welcoming and helpful and they have their own restaurant and bar where you can mingle with the other guests. Choose from a double room or a double room with a bath or balcony and a city view. * Check rates and availability: Dali House 

Petra – Petra Guest House – $$

You can’t get any closer to the entrance of Petra than this gorgeous restored 1st century Nabatean House. With cocktails at night and dining in a Cave Bar for breakfast, we love this place. Choose from a single, double or twin room or upgrade to a superior chalet. * Check rates and availability: Petra Guest House 

Petra – Movenpick Resort Petra – $$$

If you want to treat yourself in Petra, you can’t get a better location than this gorgeous 5-star resort. Situated opposite the entrance, it’s the perfect place to relax in some luxury after hours of trekking through this ancient wonder. Dine at the rooftop restaurant with views of Petra’s hills, cool off in the outdoor swimming pool or enjoy a cocktail or two in the lobby. The rate includes breakfast and there’s even an ATM at the hotel. Choose from a superior twin room, a family room or a king or royal suite. * Check rates and availability: Movenpick Resort Petra 

Wadi Rum Legend Camp – $

Staying in a Bedouin camp doesn't mean that you can’t do it in comfort. With panoramic tents, comfortable beds and showers, camping will never be the same again at this legend desert camp. Explore the magic of Wadi Rum during the day on a jeep tour and enjoy deliciously cooked food, evening games and Bedouin stories around the fire at night. They also arrange shuttles to and from the airport. Choose from a double or standard room with a mountain view or a double room with a private bathroom. * Check rates and availability: Wadi Rum Legend Camp

Photo @ Earth Magazine

 Travelling Around Jordan

How to travel in Jordan – It can be difficult travelling Jordan unless you have a private car and private driver Jordan as many places are off the beaten track. The best way to get around Jordan is by hiring a private car and driver, especially if you have limited time in the country.

For driving in Jordan, the roads are easy to navigate as signs are in Arabic and English and a rental car is a cheaper option (although you may prefer company if taking this option). The Desert Highway runs from Aqaba in the south of Jordan to the north. The King’s Highway starts near Irbid in the north and runs south to Wadi Rum, the closest town for Petra. Can women drive in Jordan? Yes and there are women taxi drivers too.

If you choose to hire a car for Jordan independent travel, we recommend pre-booking car rental so you can collect your car when you arrive at the airport.

If you take one of the Jordan taxi cabs, agree the price beforehand; white-painted ‘service taxis’ take fixed routes which you can share with other passengers but we suggest using the private yellow taxis. To take a taxi as Jordan transport, it is respectful not to sit in the front seat if you are a woman.

Public transportation in Jordan – Buses only run along certain routes. The Jett tourist bus runs the 3.5 hour journey from Amman to Petra once a day and costs approximately £15. To return back to the capital, buses from Petra to Amman also only leave once every day. Local buses run other routes such as Aqaba and Wadi Mjusa. Find all routes for Jett Bus Jordan here.

For those planning on spending some time at the Red Sea before flying back out of the capital, the bus from Aqaba to Amman takes 5 hours, costs approx £20 and leaves every 4 hours. You can also fly between the two. 

From The Airport 

Queen Alia International Airport, Amman: An airport express bus runs to the North bus station (Tabarbour) in Amman and costs 5 JD for the 50 minute journey. Taxis are also available and prices are displayed near the taxi office at the airport.

* Feel more confident traveling to Jordan as a woman with someone waiting for you at the airport when you pre-book a transfer with Hoppa, a reliable and safe service for solo females.

How Long Do I Need? 

I recommend a week minimum if you are visiting only Jordan. You could also combine your trip with Israel and spend two or three nights in either Jerusalem or Aqaba depending on which border you cross.

In seven days you can see the best of Jordan such as the Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum and Amman. If you have ten days, add Jerash and Aljoun into your itinerary.

Jordan Travel Guide

If you need a guide book for your travels we recommend Rough Guides. Covering where to go and when to go, things not to miss, itineraries, getting around, festivals and events, history, and maps, they are amongst the most comprehensive guides on the market. If you prefer Lonely Planet click here for all Jordan guide books.

The Rough Guide To Jordan

If you are planning on travelling to Jordan for the first time, the Rough Guide to Jordan covers topics such as: book your trip, accommodation, getting there, getting around, food and drink, and travel essentials. They also include culture and etiquette so you can know exactly what to expect in the country. They’re your travel Bible.

* Check prices on Amazon

Travelling Onwards (check visas before you travel)

Flying into Amman then travelling onto Israel can actually be cheaper than flying directly into Israel.

Jordan To Israel: King Hussein Bridge: This is the best border if you are looking to return to Jordan within 14 days as you don’t need a multiple visa. From downtown expect to pay 25 JD for a taxi to the border or take a bus from Amman bus station.

Exit tax is 10 JD payable at one of the 3 counters at the border (you need to go to all 3) before buying a ticket for yourself (4 JD) and your bag (1.30 JD) to board a minibus. Then it’s a 15 minute journey to exit Jordan and arrive at an airport style immigration in Israel.

There are 3 check points to get through so be prepared to wait and allow at least 3/4 hours. If you come late evening they may turn you away and ask you to return the next day. Interrogation is more probable for muslims and British passport holders.

Make sure you have an itinerary pre-booked as they will ask you for address and how long in each place. Read here for opening times.

Sheik Hussein: In the North to Beit She’an in Israel. In Jordan buses run to Irbid, one of the cities in Jordan, then take a taxi from here for 20 JD or all the way to the border. Beit She’an is 5km from the border and is reachable by bus.

Wadi Araba crossing: Between Aqaba and Eilat in the south. From Aqaba take a taxi for 5 JD to the border. Exit tax is 10 JD and a taxi from the border into Eilat will cost around 35 NIS after paying 5 JD from Aqaba to the crossing.

Jordan To Egypt: Fly or take the fast boat from the terminal south of Aqaba. It only takes 1 hour to Nuweiba and leaves every day at noon apart from Saturdays and costs 26 JD. There’s also a slower car ferry which departs early evening (5pm).

Jordan To Syria and Iraq: Not recommended at this time.

Jordan ToSaudi Arabia: Three border crossings: Umari, Mudawara, Durra. You need to apply for your visa beforehand and it’s very difficult to obtain one.

Where can I go from here?

• Israel – 40 minutes
• Egypt – 1.5 hours
• Lebanon – 1 hour

FAQs

• Can I drink the water? Yes, you can but you may prefer to take your own water filter with you.
• Is tipping expected? Up to 10% but most hotels and restaurants will add this to your bill. For taxis just round up.
• Fixed price or barter? Barter.
• Any ATM’s? Yes.
• Which side of the road do they drive? Right.
• Good for vegetarians? Yes, plenty of falafel!
• Any Seven Wonders of the World? The ancient city of Petra.

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Map of Jordan