Can I visit Petra as a day trip from Amman?

While It is possible to visit Petra on a day trip from Amman, I would not recommend it due to the distance between the two cities. Petra is about a 3-4 hour drive one way from Amman. Plan your Petra trip using my Petra Travel Guide.

What are the best hiking trails in Jordan?

Here are some of the best hiking trails in Jordan:

1. Dana Biosphere Reserve: Located near the town of Dana, this nature reserve offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels. The Dana to Petra trek is particularly popular, taking hikers through diverse landscapes and providing stunning views along the way.
2. Wadi Mujib Siq Trail: Also known as the “Jordanian Grand Canyon,” Wadi Mujib offers an exhilarating hiking experience with its narrow canyons, waterfalls, and natural pools. The Siq Trail is one of the most accessible routes, allowing hikers to wade through waist-deep water and navigate narrow passages.
3. Petra’s Back Door (Al-Madras Trail): This lesser-known trail offers a unique perspective of Petra, leading hikers through the scenic back entrance of the ancient city. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning viewpoints and ancient Nabatean ruins.
4. Jordan Trail: Stretching over 650 kilometers from Um Qais in the north to Aqaba in the south, the Jordan Trail offers an epic hiking experience for adventurous trekkers. You can choose to hike the entire trail or select shorter sections that suit your preferences and fitness level.
5. Wadi Rum Desert Trek: Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum on foot by embarking on a desert trek. Guided hiking tours in Wadi Rum allow you to discover hidden valleys, towering sand dunes, and ancient rock formations while immersing yourself in Bedouin culture.

What is the best time of year to visit Jordan?

Generally, the most favourable time to visit Jordan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are enjoyable.

Summer (June to August) can be scorching hot in Jordan, especially in the desert regions like Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. Daytime temperatures often soar above 40°C (104°F), making outdoor activities challenging and uncomfortable. However, if you plan to spend most of your time in the Red Sea resort town of Aqaba, summer can be a good time for beach activities and water sports.

Winter (December to February) is less crowded and offers opportunities for budget travel, some outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather conditions.

How much should I budget for a trip to Jordan?

The cost of a trip to Jordan can vary widely depending on factors such as travel style, accommodation preferences, dining choices, activities, and duration of stay. However, here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect to budget for a mid-range trip to Jordan:

• Accommodation: Budget for around $50 to $100 per night for mid-range hotels or guesthouses. Luxury hotels and resorts can cost upwards of $150 to $300 per night.
• Transportation: Plan for transportation costs such as flights or entry visas, as well as internal travel expenses within Jordan. Budget around $200 to $400 for domestic flights or overland transport between cities.
• Food: Allocate approximately $20 to $40 per day for meals, depending on your dining preferences. Street food and local eateries are generally more affordable, while upscale restaurants may be pricier.
• Activities: Budget for entrance fees to tourist attractions, guided tours, and other activities. Popular sites like Petra and Wadi Rum may have entrance fees ranging from $20 to $70 per person.
• Miscellaneous: Set aside some funds for miscellaneous expenses such as souvenirs, tips, and unforeseen costs. Budget around $10 to $20 per day for incidentals.

Overall, for a mid-range trip to Jordan, you can expect to budget approximately $700 to $1000 per person for a week-long stay.

How many days do I need to explore Jordan?

Obviously, the ideal duration for exploring Jordan depends on your interests, travel pace, and the attractions you wish to visit. In my opinion, 8-10 days is a good time to explore Jordan at a decent pace.