Jordan is possibly one of the most culturally enriching places on this earth. Many people, Americans in particular, have a very........... specific opinion of the Middle East. When I told people I was going to Jordan (on my bucket list since watching India Jones & the Last Crusade as a child), the first thing I was typically asked was, "is it safe?"
Here's the thing. Middle Eastern people are not that different than us. Particularly if you are Asian and have a strong family/cultural bond. For religious purposes, there may be some differences in terms of approach to alcohol (some following Islam do not imbibe, and even touching a can of beer is against their religion), and many women dress modestly and cover their hair in scarves (hijabs), but generally no one will bother you for not following these customs. You, in Jordan, are a foreigner, and they understand that. The most important thing is to be respectful of others' culture- when you are visiting a religious site, simply respect the rules around covering oneself (shoulders, air, legs, etc.), and you are fine.
With that, let's begin. I spent a few more days than necessary in Jordan myself, so this is an optimized itinerary to make the most out of your time.
Renting a car in Jordan is very easy, but driving around the main cities is not easy as a foreigner. For that reason alone- and the fact that many of the most desirable sites in Jordan are spread VERY far apart- you should join an organized tour, and expect to nap on the bus a lot (some days 3, 5, or 8 hours!). This sounds intense, but I am telling you, it was WELL worth it.
Here is the tour I recommend which was also kindly gifted.:
Day 1: Arrival in Amman
Arrive at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman.
Transfer to your hotel in Amman and settle in.
Explore the vibrant capital city by visiting the Citadel, Roman Theatre, and the bustling markets of downtown Amman.
Enjoy a delicious Jordanian dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Amman City Tour and Jerash
Begin the day with a guided city tour of Amman, visiting attractions such as the King Abdullah Mosque and the Amman Citadel.
Drive to the ancient city of Jerash and explore the well-preserved Roman ruins- the largest and most impressive outside of Italy (yes- better than Greece even).
Marvel at the grandeur of the Hadrian's Arch, the Oval Plaza, and the Temple of Artemis.
Return to Amman in the evening and enjoy dinner at a traditional Jordanian restaurant.
Day 3: Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Petra
Depart from Amman and head to Madaba, known for its ancient mosaic map of the Holy Land.
Visit the famous St. George's Church and witness the intricate mosaic artworks.
Continue to Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land.
Take in the panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and visit the Moses Memorial Church.
Journey to the historic city of Petra and check into your hotel for overnight stay.
Day 4: Full Day in Petra
Spend the entire day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Petra, the ancient Nabatean city.
Walk through the narrow gorge known as the Siq and marvel at the magnificent Treasury (Al-Khazneh).
Discover the various tombs, temples, and structures carved into the pink sandstone cliffs.
Visit the Monastery (Ad-Deir) and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
After a day of exploration, return to your hotel in Petra for dinner and rest.
Day 5: Wadi Rum Desert Experience
Depart from Petra and head to Wadi Rum, a stunning desert landscape famous for its unique rock formations.
Embark on a 4x4 jeep tour and explore the mesmerizing desert scenery featured in films like "Lawrence of Arabia."
Enjoy a traditional Bedouin lunch and experience the warm hospitality of the local Bedouin people.
Optional: Take a camel ride or enjoy sandboarding on the dunes.
Stay overnight in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum and enjoy a traditional dinner under the starry desert sky.
Day 6: Aqaba and Red Sea Relaxation
Leave Wadi Rum and journey to Aqaba, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life.
Check into your hotel and spend the day at leisure.
Relax on the pristine beaches, go swimming, or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea.
Explore the lively markets and enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7: Aqaba and Underwater Adventures
Take a full-day snorkeling or diving excursion in the Red Sea.
Explore the vibrant coral reefs, swim among tropical fish, and discover the rich marine biodiversity.
Enjoy a delicious onboard lunch while cruising the Red Sea.
Return to Aqaba in the late afternoon and spend the evening at leisure.
Day 8: Aqaba and Relaxation
Enjoy a day of relaxation in Aqaba.
Indulge in water sports activities, such as jet skiing or parasailing.
Visit the Aqaba Archaeological Museum to learn about the city's history and heritage.
Experience a sunset cruise in the Red Sea for stunning views and a memorable farewell
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