jordan tours for solo travellers

Jordan Solo Travel (Ultimate Guide!)

By Cat Roberts. This guide to traveling solo in Jordan contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking to experience Jordan solo travel for yourself, but need some help with the planning?

Then you’re in the right place!

Exploring ancient ruins, floating in the Dead Sea, and wandering through vast deserts; it’s an adventure that’s hard to resist!

If you’re in the same boat as I was—a solo female traveler with limited experience in the Middle East—the idea of taking on Jordan by yourself might seem a bit daunting. 

You’re likely wondering about safety, how to navigate the country, and whether renting a car is the smart move for seeing all the sights. You may even have doubts about Petra being overhyped (spoiler: it’s not).

Well, you’re in luck. After a month-long solo trip to Jordan—where some highlights included scuba diving in the Red Sea, exploring the red sands of Wadi Rum, and an unforgettable three days in Petra—I’m here to share my insights on solo exploring this fascinating country.

In this solo travel Jordan guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about Jordan solo travel, from practical tips on getting around to navigating the nuances of traveling during Ramadan and beyond.

Plus, I’ll touch on those not-so-great moments too, like dealing with overly friendly tour guides who aren’t used to working with solo women and avoiding scams, to give you a well-rounded view of what to expect. 

⏳ Short on time? Here are some top recommendations for a solo trip to Jordan: 🏨 Hotels: Use this map to find budget-friendly accommodation 💸 Save Money: Jordan Pass 🗺️ Tours: Viator and GetYourGuide 📍 Fun Jordan Tours For Solo Travelers: – 2-Day Tour: Petra, Wadi Rum, and Dead Sea from Amman – Private Street Food & Walking Tour of Downtown Amman – Wadi Rum Full Day Jeep Tour + Overnight & Dinner in Bedouin Camp from Aqaba 🚗 Getting Around: While there are limited buses , the best ways to get around are via rental car or guided tour 🏥 Travel Insurance: SafetyWing 📞 Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Confidently Enjoy Jordan Solo Travel [Free Course]

But first, before we get into our guide to traveling alone in Jordan, I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to learn how to have a safe and fun solo trip to Jordan, one of the top places to travel alone in the Middle East .

Is Solo Travel In Jordan Worth It? 

Is heading to Jordan solo worth it? Absolutely!

There’s something incredibly liberating about solo travel in Jordan, particularly for Jordan solo female travel. 

The beauty of going it alone here is the freedom it affords. You can take your time, linger at sites that catch your fancy, and skip the ones that don’t—all on your own schedule, which is one of the major benefits of solo travel .

And let’s dispel a myth right now: you’re never really alone . 

Whether you’re navigating the ancient city of Petra, hiking through Wadi Mujib, or exploring the historical streets of Jerash, you’ll find yourself in good company. In fact, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet locals and other travelers . 

And while Jordan might not have as many hostels as more traditional backpacking destinations, there’s no shortage of affordable guest houses that offer a warm welcome. 

That being said, there are both pros and cons to traveling alone . For instance, one downside is that traveling solo means you won’t always have someone to share expenses with, which can make certain experiences, like private tours or taxi rides, a bit pricier.

For this reason, you’ll want to create a solo travel budget , which we’ll discuss more below.

Overall, my time traveling solo in Jordan was filled with unexpected friendships, breathtaking sights, and adventures that are all the sweeter for being solo.

Is Jordan Safe For Solo Female Travelers? 

Jordan travel safety data.

According to TravelSafe-Abroad , Jordan is considered a mostly safe country.

As long as you follow local laws and keep general solo travel safety tips in mind, you likely won’t encounter any issues and can easily travel safe in Jordan.

Crimes like mugging and scams are low, though pickpocketing is relatively frequent—so consider investing in some travel safety essentials like pickpocket-proof clothing .

The other threat noted by TravelSafe-Abroad is terrorism, so do remain vigilant.

My personal Jordan safety experience

Now, let me share my personal experience. I won’t lie: heading to Jordan as a solo female traveler gave me a bit of solo trip anxiety , especially being a non-Muslim woman.

But, my experience couldn’t have been better. I felt extremely safe visiting Jordan as a woman.

Jordanian women enjoy a level of freedom that’s quite remarkable compared to some neighboring Middle Eastern countries , and this vibe extends to visitors as well. 

The hospitality here is something else. I was greeted with warm “Welcome to Jordan” and “You’re from America? I love America!” more times than I could count.

Because I was on my own, the folks running the guest houses and small hotels where I stayed went above and beyond to make sure I felt safe and welcome. 

I even got invited to celebrate the end of Ramadan with two different families, offering me a slice of local life I’d never expected to experience. 

Cultural nuances to be aware of

However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. I did have a mix-up with a local tour guide who misread my friendliness. He kept calling me post-tour until I had to block him and report the incident. His boss was quick to apologize and assured me it would be addressed. 

It’s a cultural nuance worth noting. Some local men might misinterpret the friendliness of women traveling in Jordan solo due to not being accustomed to such interactions. It’s something that’s gradually changing as they meet more tourists. 

I learned to slightly tone down my outgoingness with local men, adjusting to the cultural norms—an important part of travel no matter where you go!

To blend in and respect local customs, I mostly opted to keep my shoulders and legs covered, which helped me to navigate public spaces comfortably. 

On a stroll through the coastal town of Aqaba—in shorts (thanks, laundry day!)—I caught a few curious glances. They were nothing disrespectful; but, a reminder that modest dress is more the norm here, even in a place by the beach. 

Overall, Jordan proved to be a wonderfully safe place for solo female travelers , offering not just security but genuine warmth and welcoming attitudes that made my trip unforgettable.

Jordan Solo Travel Logistics

Solo holidays to Jordan come with their share of questions, especially if it’s your first time visiting this part of the world. 

Let’s dive into the essentials: where Jordan is, how to get there, and the best time to visit. 

Where is Jordan?

In the heart of the Middle East, Jordan is a bridge between sea and desert, ancient history and modernity. 

It’s bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and east, Iraq to the northeast, Syria to the north, and Israel and Palestine to the west. 

This strategic location has made it a historical crossroads of cultures, empires, and religions. 

Despite its compact size, Jordan packs a punch with diverse landscapes—from the serene waters of the Dead Sea to the mesmerizing desertscapes of Wadi Rum.

How to get to Jordan

Flying into Jordan is straightforward, with Queen Alia International Airport in Amman as the main gateway. 

I came a different way: I walked over the border from Israel, rented a car in Aqaba, and flew out of Amman at the end of my trip. That route may be an option again in the future.

I found that numerous international airlines offer direct flights to/from major cities around the world, making access relatively easy. 

How to get around Jordan

Navigating Jordan’s stunning landscapes as a solo traveler offers a blend of adventure, freedom, and the occasional challenge. 

Driving in Jordan

When it comes to getting around Jordan, renting a car in Jordan is surprisingly affordable and offers unparalleled freedom to explore at your own pace. With rental costs ranging from $30-40 USD per day, it’s an attractive option for those keen to venture off the beaten path. 

Driving in Jordan is generally straightforward, with well-maintained highways connecting major sites. Actually, I found driving in Jordan easier than driving in my hometown, Los Angeles!

However, navigating Amman’s traffic can be daunting due to its congestion and aggressive driving culture. Just be mindful of the occasional camel crossing!

Public transportation in Jordan

While Jordan’s public transport network isn’t as developed as in some countries, buses connect major tourist destinations, offering a budget-friendly option. 

JETT buses , for example, provide comfortable and reliable service between Amman, Petra, and Wadi Rum. Be prepared for a less flexible schedule and potentially longer travel times compared to driving or taxis.

Guided tours in Jordan

Joining guided tours can enhance your experience significantly. Not only do they provide valuable historical context, but they also offer a chance to meet other travelers. 

Tours range from day trips to multi-day excursions covering Jordan’s highlights, including Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea.

Opting for a guided tour relieves you of logistical stress and ensures you don’t miss out on Jordan’s rich cultural heritage.

Taxis in Jordan

Taxis and private drivers offer convenient door-to-door service for those who prefer not to drive. This option is good for direct transfers between cities or attractions, like Petra to Wadi Rum or Amman to the Dead Sea.

Rates are reasonable, especially when shared with fellow travelers; but, this is one of the more expensive options for solo female travel in Jordan. Always agree on the fare upfront to avoid any surprises.

Best time to visit Jordan

Timing can make or break your travel experience, and Jordan is no exception. The best times to solo travel to Jordan are:

• Spring (March to May)
• Fall (September to November)

These seasons offer mild temperatures, making outdoor explorations like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the hikes around the Dead Sea comfortably enjoyable. On the downside, this is also peak tourist season, so prepare for crowds at popular sites.

I visited in April, and the weather was perfect for those long days wandering through ancient ruins and desert landscapes. 

Part of my visit coincided with Ramadan, which was an interesting experience but sometimes made finding my midday meal more challenging. We’ll talk more about Ramadan below!

Summer months (June to August) can be scorchingly hot, especially in the desert regions, while winter (December to February) brings cooler weather, rain, and sometimes even snow in Amman and Petra. 

While winter is quieter in terms of tourists, the weather may impact some outdoor activities. This is something to keep in mind if you want to go hiking—which you should, as Jordan has some of the most epic hiking trails in the world .

If you want to avoid the crowds while enjoying good weather, late spring and early fall are ideal. Plus, visiting during these shoulder seasons means you’ll likely find better deals on accommodation and tours.

Best Places For Solo Travel In Jordan 

One of the greatest perks of traveling solo is your absolute control over your Jordan solo travel itinerary.

Jordan offers countless chances for exploration with its intriguing historical sites, stunning landscapes, and lively cultures.

If you’re wondering where to kickstart your solo journey in this mesmerizing country, let me guide you through the must-visit destinations for Jordan independent travel. Whether you are spending a few days, a month, or a week in Jordan , don’t miss:

Petra , the crown jewel of Jordan’s ancient monuments, commands at least one full day, ideally two days, of your solo travel itinerary, and here’s how to make the most of it. 

I’ll be honest: I expected Petra to be overrated; one of those “take some pictures and go” kind of places. Instead, Petra solo travel far surpassed my expectations. 

The sense of stepping back in time was palpable from the moment I set foot in this ancient city. I felt like a real-life Indiana Jones!

Petra’s gates open at 6 am, and arriving early is crucial. It affords a cooler, more comfortable exploration before the desert heat intensifies and allows you to experience Petra before the day’s crowds descend. 

On my first day, I tackled the solo hike to the Treasury Viewpoint . This and the trek up to the Monastery ‘s 800 ancient steps left me utterly exhausted. In hindsight, maybe I should have split those Petra hikes into two days.

Exploring Petra’s vastness and rugged terrain requires good physical fitness and an early start, especially if you plan to visit all the iconic landmarks in just one day.

While Petra by Night , with its candle-lit path leading to the Treasury, promised a magical experience, I found it rather crowded and underwhelming—especially considering it’s not included in the Jordan Pass and only runs three days a week. Then again, if you’re there, you may as well check it out!

When traveling, it’s important to be aware of animal welfare issues . And while it may be tempting to tour Petra on a camel or donkey, I advise caution due to how these animals are disturbingly mistreated—something I witnessed firsthand.

Instead, consider bringing a few oranges to feed the camels (with the owner’s permission). Camels have a surprising love for oranges, and offering them one can turn you into an instant favorite.

Little Petra awaits nearby for those seeking to escape the main tourist paths. This smaller, less-frequented site offers a quieter exploration experience while showcasing the Nabatean’s architectural prowess.

🏨 Petra Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels near Petra 📸 Petra Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Petra

Wadi Rum , often dubbed the “Valley of the Moon,” is a breathtaking expanse of desert in southern Jordan that’s a must-visit for any solo traveler in the region. 

Known for its stunning sandstone mountains, ancient rock carvings, and vast red sands, Wadi Rum offers an otherworldly experience that feels like stepping onto another planet.

During my stay, I opted for a bit of luxury, spending a memorable night at the famous Memories Aicha Luxury Camp in a plush tent.

The highlight of my visit was a sunset Jeep tour , an absolute must-do that takes you through the desert’s heart, showcasing its natural rock formations, bridges, and the rich history of the Bedouins. Stargazing here is unparalleled.

For those seeking a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, numerous Bedouin camps offer inexpensive stays, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the traditional Bedouin lifestyle . 

These rustic camps provide a unique opportunity to learn firsthand about the desert’s indigenous culture from the Bedouins, from sharing meals to listening to stories under the stars.

Arriving by early afternoon allows you to catch one of these magical sunset tours. Most accommodations, including the luxury camps, offer a variety of activities such as hikes, camel rides, ATV tours, or guided stargazing sessions, so it’s worth checking with them ahead of time to plan your stay. 

While one day in Wadi Rum was enough for me, some travelers choose to stay longer, indulging in the tranquility of the desert for an extra night.

A practical tip for those driving: it’s necessary to leave your vehicle in the town just outside Wadi Rum and arrange for your camp to pick you up. The last thing you want is to get stuck in the sand. 

Also, if you’re dreaming of a night under the stars in one of those iconic bubble tents—such as the ones at Memories Aicha Luxury Camp or at the popular Wadi Rum Bubble Luxotel —make sure to book well in advance—they’re incredibly popular and fill up fast. 

🏨 Wadi Rum Hotels: Click here for a full list of tours in Wadi Rum 📸 Wadi Rum Tours: Click here for a full list of hotels in Wadi Ru m

Visiting the Dead Sea is a quintessential Jordan experience, offering the surreal sensation of floating effortlessly on its salty waters. 

The lowest point on earth, this unique body of water is renowned for its mineral-rich mud, which is said to have therapeutic properties . 

While there aren’t any budget hostels directly by the Dead Sea, various resorts cater to different budgets, offering day passes for those not staying overnight. 

For a comprehensive day trip, consider adding nearby historical sites to your itinerary, such as Mount Nebo , where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land, and the ancient mosaics of Madaba . 

Just a short drive away, Ma’in Hot Springs is perfect for a relaxing dip in naturally heated mineral water. 

Remember to bring water shoes for the Dead Sea’s rocky shore and avoid shaving just before entering to prevent stinging in the salty water. Additionally, here are some tips for a solo beach trip .

🏨 Dead Sea Hotels: Click here for a list of hotels in the Dead Sea 📸 Dead Sea Tours: Click here for a list of tours in the Dead Sea

Hiking the Siq Trail in Wadi Mujib turned out to be a highlight of my solo travel through Jordan, blending adventure with nature’s unmatched beauty. 

One of the top hikes in Jordan , this unique trail offers a thrilling canyoning experience, leading you through a narrow canyon filled with water to a beautiful waterfall. It’s located near the Dead Sea, so many travelers visit both on the same day.

The route, requiring a mix of hiking and swimming, is surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs, providing a stunning backdrop for your adventure. 

Despite my initial reservations about my hiking abilities, the experience was exhilarating and not to be missed.

The trail is open seasonally, typically from April to October, and it’s crucial to check its availability in advance due to its dependence on weather conditions. 

Starting early is key. Aim to be at the Mujib Adventure Center by 8 am to beat both the crowds and the heat. They’ll provide life jackets.

Remember, the Jordan Pass does not cover the Siq Trail and requires an entrance fee of 21 JD. You don’t need a guide.

While the hike is moderately challenging, involving some climbing assisted by ropes, it’s doable for most people with basic fitness and swimming abilities.

🏨 Wadi Mujib Hotels: Click here for a list of hotels near Wadi Mujib 📸 Wadi Mujib Tours: Click here to book a guided Wadi Mujib tour

Aqaba , Jordan’s window to the Red Sea , is a quiet beach town that offers a blend of historical exploration and marine adventure. 

As a solo traveler in Jordan, I found Aqaba to be the perfect spot for relaxation. 

The city’s coastline is a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts, and I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to dive into the Red Sea’s clear waters.

I enjoyed the diving a lot, but it wasn’t the most impressive I’ve ever had (I’m still hoping to make it to Egypt one day!).

➡️ You can view Red Sea diving tours here and view Red Sea snorkeling tours here .

I also saw travelers taking boat tours along the coastline, which looked fun!

In Aqaba’s Old Town , explore the traditional souk to discover local handicrafts, pause for a tea break, and enjoy conversations with welcoming locals. 

For relaxation, Aqaba’s beaches are your go-to spots. Spend time at public beaches or hotel beach clubs, basking in the Red Sea’s tranquil waters. The beach promenade becomes a lively hub at night, perfect for mingling.

🏨 Aqaba Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Aqaba 📸 Aqaba Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Aqaba

In Amman , Jordan’s bustling capital, there’s a blend of ancient history and modern life waiting for solo travelers. 

Dive into the city’s vibrant culture by starting with the Citadel , offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Amman’s past through landmarks like the Roman Temple of Hercules . 

Down the hill, the Roman Theater , in the heart of downtown, is another must-see, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Rome. 

Wander through the busy souks and cafes of Rainbow Street , where you can sample traditional Jordanian dishes and sweets. You can also book an Amman food or wine tour .

If you’re keen on museums, the Jordan Museum offers insightful displays of the country’s rich history. 

Although a day in Amman was enough for me to catch the highlights, some prefer using it as a base for day trips. Here are some top-rated Amman day trip tour options .

🏨 Amman Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Amman 📸 Amman Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Amman

Jerash , often hailed as one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world, is a must-visit for any solo traveler in Jordan looking to step back in time. I was thoroughly impressed!

Just an hour’s drive north of Amman, this ancient city offers an impressive array of colonnaded streets, soaring hilltop temples, handsome theaters, and spacious public squares that you can wander through almost as if you were a citizen of ancient Rome.

Start your visit at the iconic Hadrian’s Arch , built to honor the visit of Emperor Hadrian in 129 AD, then make your way to the Hippodrome, where chariot races once thrilled crowds of up to 15,000 spectators. 

The Oval Plaza , an immense public space uniquely shaped and surrounded by a stunning colonnade, is a perfect spot for those panoramic shots. Don’t miss the Temple of Artemis and the Forum , where the intricacies of Roman architecture are on full display.

While Jerash can be easily explored independently, hiring a local guide at the site (or joining a group tour from Amman ) can enrich your experience with historical insights and anecdotes you might not find in guidebooks. 

Given the vastness of the site, allocate at least a couple of hours for your visit, wear comfortable walking shoes, and carry water, especially during the hot summer months.

For a change of scenery, a short drive from Jerash will take you to Ajloun Castle , also known as Qala’at Ar-Rabad. This 12th-century Muslim castle was built by the forces of Saladin to control the local iron mines and to deter Crusader advances. 

Its hilltop position offers breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley . Combining a visit to Jerash with Ajloun Castle and possibly even the Ajloun Forest Reserve can make for a fulfilling day trip.

🏨 Jerash Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Jerash 📸 Jerash Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Jerash

Jordan Solo Travel Map 

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a Jordan solo travel map. It has all of the places mentioned in this guide pre-plotted:

Click here for an interactive version of the above map .

Tips For Traveling To Jordan Solo 

Drawing from my month-long solo female travel Jordan experience, here are some practical tips to help you navigate your own solo travels with confidence :

1. Buy the Jordan Pass

The Jordan Pass is a cost-effective way to see all the major attractions in Jordan, including Petra and Jerash.

It also includes a single entry visa fee, saving you time and hassle at the border. Plus, it offers discounts on other sites and activities.

Just make sure to plan your Jordan solo trip itinerary accordingly to make the most of it.

2. Dress appropriately

As a conservative Muslim country, Jordan has certain expectations when it comes to clothing, especially for solo female travelers in Jordan.

One of the most important Jordan tips to learn is to pack modest, loose-fitting clothes that cover your shoulders and knees for both respect and comfort. This applies even more when visiting religious or historic sites.

3. Stay connected when you travel solo

Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival to stay connected with loved ones and have access to GPS navigation while exploring solo. 

Depending on your phone, you might also be able to purchase an Airalo eSIM and set it up before arriving.

4. Master the art of haggling

Bargaining is a common practice in Jordan, especially in souks and taxis. Don’t be afraid to negotiate for the best price, but remember to do so respectfully and with a smile.

If the price isn’t right, don’t be afraid to walk away. Often, this can lead to the seller calling you back with a better offer.

5. Rent a car for maximum flexibility

While some public transport exists, renting a car gave me unparalleled freedom to explore Jordan at my own pace and have a fun solo trip .

It’s surprisingly affordable and the roads are generally good, making it ideal for those who want to dive deep into the country’s nooks and crannies.

You can check out Discover Cars to quickly compare prices and options on one screen—no opening up 10+ tabs required. Their tool can even help you save up to 70%!

6. Start early to beat the crowds

Sites like Petra and the Wadi Mujib Siq Trail are best experienced in the early morning. Not only will you beat the heat and the crowds, but witnessing these places in the soft morning light is truly magical.

7. Be prepared for Ramadan

Traveling during Ramadan offers a unique cultural experience, but it also means adjusting your schedule, especially for meals during the day. Plan accordingly and respect the local practices.

8. Learn basic Arabic phrases

Knowing a few key phrases in Arabic can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture. Simple greetings and thank-yous can open doors to warm interactions.

9. Dine solo in Jordan

Solo dining in Jordan is a bit unusual. During my trip, I noticed more couples and families eating at restaurants than solo travelers.

That being said, I felt perfectly safe and was always welcomed everywhere I went. If you’re feeling a little awkward, street food and casual cafes are the way to go! 

10. Beware of scams

While Jordan is generally safe, be aware of common tourist scams. Scams in Jordan often involve overcharging for goods or tours or charging tourists for services that should be free.

For instance, the viewpoints accessible via trails on the Petra map are free to access.

Additionally, while all cabs are required to have meters by law, some cab drivers may claim their meters are faulty to overcharge passengers, particularly at tourist sites. Always agree on a price upfront. 

11. Trust your instincts

As with any solo travel, trusting your instincts is key. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to remove yourself from the situation. Safety always comes first.

Top Jordan Tours For Solo Travelers 

One of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of the places you visit while making new friends during solo travel in Jordan is to book a guided tour. A few top-rated tours for those enjoying female solo travel in Jordan include:

• 😍 2-Day Tour: Petra, Wadi Rum, and Dead Sea from Amman
• 🥘 Private Street Food & Walking Tour of Downtown Amman
• 💫 Wadi Rum Full Day Jeep Tour + Overnight & Dinner in Bedouin Camp from Aqaba
• 🎈 Hot Air Balloon Flight at Wadi Rum from Aqaba
• 🐠 Private Diving Experience in The Heart of the Red Sea from Aqaba

➡️ Click here for a full list of Jordan tours .

Cost Of A Solo Trip To Jordan

Traveling solo in Jordan offers an array of experiences, but it’s essential to budget accordingly. 

I’ll be honest, I was a little shocked at how expensive the Middle East was—especially brutal after spending the previous 6 months in Southeast Asia.

Your daily budget will vary greatly depending on the season (spring and fall are the most expensive), your travel style, and what part of Jordan you’re in. For instance, The Dead Sea is very expensive compared to Amman.

Here are some breakdowns to give you a general idea of what to expect when you travel Jordan as a solo female:

Accommodation: Accommodation costs vary widely in Jordan. Budget guesthouses and hostels range from $20 to $50 USD per night, while mid-range hotels can set you back $50 to $120 USD. Luxury accommodations, including luxury desert camps in Wadi Rum, can cost upwards of $100 USD per night. You can find Wadi Rum Bedouin camps for less than $20 USD.

You can use this map to research budget-friendly rentals and hotels in Jordan here. It’s currently set to the hip Jabal al-Weibdeh neighborhood of Amman, but you can easily change it to your preferred destination:

Transportation: Renting a car can be around $30-$40 USD per day, a budget-friendly option that provides flexibility and convenience for exploring. Public minibusses between cities are cheaper, though less convenient, costing around $7-$15 for longer routes. Tourist buses, like the bus from Amman to the Dead Sea, costs $15 USD each way. 

Jordan Pass: The Jordan Pass, ranging from $98 to $115 USD, covers most archaeological sites and museums, offering significant savings. It includes Petra and waives the tourist entry visa so long as you buy it before arrival in Jordan and stay at least 3 nights.

Food: Street eats like falafel and shawarma are a steal at around $1-$3 USD, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost between $10 and $15 USD. 

Activities: Organized tours vary in price, starting at around $80 USD for a full-day tour. Specific activities like a half-day Jeep tour in Wadi Rum might cost around $50-$90 USD while diving in Aqaba costs around $20-30 USD per dive including equipment rental. 

Recommendation: Overall, a daily budget of $50-$120 USD should cover budget to mid-range travelers.

Traveling solo in Jordan tends to be a bit more expensive than traveling with a partner or in a group. Save money by finding other travelers to share transportation and accommodation costs with if you can!

Do You Need Travel Insurance For Jordan? 

When traveling solo to Jordan—or anywhere else in the world—it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

➡️ Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Traveling To Jordan Alone: FAQ  

Now that we’ve gone over important tips and where to go when traveling alone in Jordan, let’s answer some frequently asked questions:

Q) How many days in Jordan is enough?

To truly experience the highlights of Jordan, including Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, a minimum of 5-7 days is recommended.

Q) Can you drink alcohol in Jordan?

Yes, you can drink alcohol in Jordan. Alcohol is available in hotels, bars, and licensed restaurants, though you may have a harder time finding it in smaller towns and villages. During Ramadan, there are restrictions in place, making it harder to purchase alcohol in Jordan.

Q) Is Jordan safe to travel alone?

Jordan is a great destination for solo travelers. While it’s generally safe, as with any travel, it’s important to stay mindful of your surroundings and local customs.

Q) Is Jordan safe for female travelers?

If you travel to Jordan as a woman, know that female travelers can feel welcomed and enjoy exploring Jordan’s beauty. While the country is generally safe, it’s advisable to be aware of cultural norms and dress modestly to ensure a comfortable journey.

Q) Can women drive in Jordan?

Yes, women can drive in Jordan, and it’s becoming increasingly common for them to do so.

Q) Is Wadi Rum safe?

Wadi Rum is very safe for travelers, with your accommodation ensuring you have a memorable experience. You are not permitted to drive into Wadi Rum on your own.

Q) Is Uber safe in Jordan?

Uber is considered safe in Jordan, offering a reliable and affordable alternative to taxis, especially in Amman. Uber is limited outside of Amman.

Q) How do I get from Amman to Petra?

To get from Amman to Petra, you can use the JETT bus service, rent a car for more flexibility, or take a private taxi.

Q) Where should I avoid in Jordan?

Generally, Jordan is safe for travelers; however, it’s wise to avoid areas close to the borders with Syria and Iraq due to regional instability.

Final Thoughts On Solo Travel In Jordan 

Solo travel in Jordan is not just feasible; it’s an incredible adventure that combines the thrill of exploration with the warmth of local hospitality. 

From the ancient wonders of Petra to the tranquil waters of the Dead Sea and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Wadi Rum, Jordan offers solo travelers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. 

Safety, while always a consideration, particularly for solo female travel to Jordan, is well-managed with common sense and a bit of preparation, ensuring a comfortable journey through this Middle Eastern gem. 

Renting a car can enhance your experience, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace. 

And while solo travel to Jordan means managing your budget carefully, the memories and friendships you’ll make along the way are priceless. Whether you’re navigating ancient ruins or floating in the Dead Sea, Jordan promises an unforgettable solo travel experience.

What tips would you add to this Jordan solo travel guide?

About The Author

Cat Roberts is a very hungry solo female traveler in her 30s who left a 6-figure job in NYC to travel (and taste!) the world. She road-tripped solo around Jordan for a month – Petra, Wadi Rum, and Wadi Mujib were major highlights. Cat is determined to prove there are ways to backpack the world on a budget without fully sacrificing the “grown-up” lifestyle you love. You can follow her adventures on her blog, Cat Is Out Of The Office , and on Instagram .

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A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Jordan

Jordan is full of Middle Eastern promise – where dreamt-of adventures come to life. The ancient desert city of Petra and the Dead Sea are among the high spots. Read on to find out how to travel solo successfully in this Arabian destination. Want to discover Jordan as part of a small group of like-minded travellers? Join TRIPS by Culture Trip’s immersive nine-day tour , led by our Local Insider.

About jordan.

An Arab country in the Levant region of the Middle East, Jordan is home to one of the seven new wonders of the world, the rose city of Petra, as well as the lowest point of dry land in the world, the Dead Sea . It is defined by its timeless monuments, archaeological sites and nature reserves, while Amman, the flourishing capital, is rapidly evolving in terms of technology and lifestyle.

Where to stay

Amman has a wide variety of hotel types, catering to various budgets and in different locations. If you are looking for a memorable location and five-star luxury, look up one of Amman’s best hotels. Renting a furnished apartment, whether shared or not, can be significantly cheaper, and may be ideal for solo travelers on a budget. Neighborhoods to look out for include Jabal Al Lweibdeh , Jabal Amman, and Abdoun .

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Where to eat and drink

Food is an exciting part of travel in Jordan. Jordan’s traditional dish is mansaf (lamb cooked in yoghurt sauce and served with rice), so be sure to try this. Traditional cuisines and restaurants are found in every city, but the most diverse food venues are found in Irbid, Aqaba and, of course, the capital Amman. Other, smaller towns and cities offer more down-to-earth food ventures that usually specialize in traditional dishes only. Since Amman is used as a base by most people visiting Jordan, and is filled with all sorts of restaurants, coffee shops , bars and pubs, this guide will take you from there.

Falafel, hummus, fatteh and mutabbal are traditional breakfast dishes here. Head to the famous Hashem Restaurant in the downtown area, Rakwet Arab in Jabal al-Lweidbeh, or Al-Kalha in Abdoun to enjoy them.

For lunch, try Jordan’s national dish, m ansaf, at Sufrain Jabal Amman – where you can tuck in at a table on the terrace. Restaurants serving all types of cuisine can be found throughout Amman, from local food to Italian, Chinese, Spanish, Armenian, and contemporary sushi.

Amman has a plentiful choice of dinner options for every taste, so when trying to narrow down your options, it’s best to consider the venue rather than just the menu. Dining in Amman can be breathtaking if you find the right place.

A great dining option is Little Italy, which serves simple but well cooked Italian cuisine. The pasta and ice-cream are handmade in-house, and the views over Amman by night are dazzling. For delicious Japanese food, Skyline Sushi is the place to go, and for more of an authentic local culinary experience, head to Wild Jordan Centre. Both restaurants also offer superb views overlooking the city.

What to do in Jordan

The country is especially beautiful in spring, and if you want to avoid the vicious heat, then visit between March and May or from the end of August until October. Jordan is home to numerous archaeological sites, awe-inspiring mountains, and vast deserts. It takes about a week to explore Jordan from north to south, and a moderate budget is required to cover transportation, snacks, water, gas, and souvenirs. If you are planning to take day trips from Amman , you won’t need to stay in alternative hotels. If you’d like to stay outside the city, you can plan a trip that encompasses all of Jordan’s iconic sights, such as Petra, with its must-see attractions like the treasury and Al-Siq, Wadi Rum, the Colonnaded Street of Jerash, Ajloun Castle and more. A larger budget should be factored for this.

A lot of Jordan’s scenery has featured in famous films. The red sands of Wadi Rum may provoke dejá vu, as it appeared in the 2015 sci-fi movie, The Martian . The Jordanian desert was the perfect stand-in for the red planet. As for Petra , the Treasury was featured in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen . It’s definitely one of Jordan’s most prized landmarks.

Amman itself, although a rather small city, is home to many historical monuments. Visit the magnificent Roman Theatre while strolling downtown, then head up to the hill of Jabal Al Qala’a. There, you will find some of Amman’s oldest Roman ruins, the Citadel and the Temple of Hercules.

There is so much to see and do in Jordan . Hiking, biking and jogging are popular, and you can find out more about the best hiking trails in Jordan by visiting the official website for the Jordan Trail. This long-distance hiking trail extends from the north to the south of the country, ending at Aqaba Port. It takes 40 days to finish the whole trail, but you can always sign up for shorter distances. Walking the Jordan Trail is walking the history of Jordan; you will pass 52 villages and town, breathtaking landscapes, archeological sights, deserts, mountains, dunes, rugged valleys and cliffs.

Meeting people

Solo travellers often worry about being lonely, but forming bonds with the people of Jordan is easy. Locals are very welcoming and yearn to connect with visitors. There are also many expatriates living in the hills of Amman, and you can easily find them in Jabal Al Lweibdeh and Jabal Amman. Regular meet-ups for expatriates and tourists are often held in these areas, so keep an eye out on social media.

At the end of long staircase, running down from Jabal Al Lweibdeh, Beit Sitti offers daily cooking classes, where you get to meet food-loving people and prepare a meal. What better way to socialise than by cooking and eating a meal together?

Solo female travel in Jordan

Is Jordan safe for solo female travellers? Jordan has a progressive record for women’s rights in the region, as Jordanian women are highly educated and the constitution promotes equal opportunities. Although Jordan is culturally conservative, you’ll find warm hospitality from most people, which means that beyond avoiding remote areas and keeping an eye out for potential scams, travelling to Jordan alone is an accessible adventure.

The Kingdom offers organised tours for the solo traveller – our nine-day trip to Jordan will safely take you into the lesser-known parts of the country under the guidance of a Local Insider.

Getting around

Taxis are the main way of getting around Jordan, and there are two types, yellow and white. White ones, called “service taxis”, are much cheaper as they take several passengers at once and have a fixed lane they can drive along. They can be a bit complicated to figure out, as no maps or written directions are available, but you can always ask locals for help. Unfortunately, some taxi drivers may try to take advantage of non-Arabic speakers, so check the meter (next to the driver) for the amount you should pay at the end of the trip – and always ask for the meter to be turned when you set off.

Public buses are also common in Jordan; however, trains are not. The main advantage of public transportation is that it’s very cheap. Taxis are a bit more expensive, but they are the most convenient way to get from one city to another and the most common way of getting around. Apps such as Uber and Careem are becoming widely used as an alternative.

Other things to keep in mind

Like every country, Jordan has its own rules, regulations and customs. Jordan is an Islamic Arab country, and traditions should be taken seriously and handled sensitively. Before visiting, you should take note of the socially conservative culture and dress code. Baring flesh is a no-no for men and women, and public displays of affection are also frowned upon. However, as strict as some of these customs might sound, the people of Jordan are generally generous, helpful and warm-hearted.

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Jordan in the Middle East is a stunning country to explore. If you are planning on visiting Jordan as a woman, below is my Jordan solo travel guide including the best places to visit in Jordan, what to see in Jordan, how to travel around Jordan, where to stay in Jordan, and the best Jordan tour companies for solos. Just click on the relevant section or read through the whole article for Jordan solo female travel.

N.b. For every booking made through this article, I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping to make a difference to their lives. 

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• Travelling Around Jordan
• From The Airport
• How Long Do I Need?

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• Travelling Onwards

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Map of jordan, related posts.

King Abdullah Mosque in Amman

Is Jordan safe for solo female travellers? If you are not comfortable with leering men then traveling to Jordan as a woman may not be right for you. As much as it is a beautiful country, visit Jordan alone as a Western woman and expect a few stares. That's why I've given it 2 out of 5 stars.

Being a male-dominated country, some of the women that you encounter on the streets cover their head with a scarf or a veil. However in the cities and the main Jordan tourist sites, Jordanians are used to seeing solo and Western female travellers and the facilities are generally set up with tourists in mind. Get off the beaten track and you’ll encounter restaurants with separate areas for women to eat as well as a separation on public transport.

In summary, is Jordan safe to travel as a woman? Yes. When you solo female travel Jordan, if you dress modestly and respect the culture, this mystical country is an experience that you won't forget. Jordan is a wonderful country but if you are unsure of what to do in Jordan or things to see in Jordan alone,  you may feel more comfortable with Jordan solo female travel on one of the group tours to Jordan.

* Before you solo travel Jordan, check what paperwork or visas are required for 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.

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, w ith 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

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

Jordan has a selection of accommodation w hether 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.

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.

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. * Read: Crossing The Israel Jordan Border

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 To Saudi 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
• 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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To help you plan female solo travel Jordan, here are some useful links including airlines which fly there, vaccinations required and events and festivals.

Budget – £30 a day

Capital – Amman

Population – 6.5 million

Language spoken – Arabic, English

Local Currency – Jordanian Dinar

Do I Need a Visa?

Vaccinations Required

Flying time to Jordan – 5 hrs 

Useful Info

Airlines to Jordan

Best Time to Go – May, June & Sept

What Plugs Do I Need?

UNESCO Sites in Jordan

Events & Festivals in Jordan

Local Cost Guide

Driving Distances

Local Customs & Etiquette

Sacred Places in Jordan

Lingo – Useful Arabic phrases

Weather in Jordan – Below is an annual weather chart of the weather in Jordan

Stay at Feynan Ecolodge

Volunteering

Habit for Humanity

Wild Jordan Nature Centre

Mind Body & Soul

Stay At a Meditation Retreat

Dead Sea Spa Treatments

• Solo Travel in the Middle East 
• Solo Travel in Israel
• Visiting Petra in Jordan
• My Day With a Wadi Rum Bedouin
• My Jordan Adventure

14 thoughts on “ Solo Travel in Jordan ”

Thank you SOOOO much! I am just beginning my planning for a solo trip to Jordan and Israel and this is exactly what I needed to have the confidence to do it. THANK YOU! 🙂

Awww, thanks Lisa. Have an amazing time x

I am planning for a solo trip to Jordan first time ever. I have never gone out of India neither alone nor in a group so I am bit nervous about what to do and what not. do I need to get visa before entering jordan or I can get visa on arrival?. I want a budget travel. how much does it cost me?

Hi Areeb. I only know about the British passport for visas. Can you contact the Jordan embassy in India to check if you need a visa? In the UK we have information on the Foreign Office website for visas. Do you have something like that? x

Heya, just wanted to point out an error in your description. You said Ramadan takes plus usually around August/September, but that’s not true. The calendar shifts annually, and so it’s in a different period every year from one to the next. It was in August/September a few years ago, this year it’ll be around May, and in the next years it’ll be in the earlier months before circling back to August/September in a couple of years. Overall, super dope article!

Read this for more clarity: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/ramadan-2018-calendar-timetable-uk-when-is-it-this-year-latest-timings-a8350711.html

Hi Sabs, thanks for taking the time to comment. This information is great! I have changed this on the site x

is transportation, bus perhaps, to tourist spots like Petra, wadi rum, is easily accessible? thank you

Hi Steward, there was a bus to Petra. Rome2Rio is a great website from point to point. Have an amazing time. https://www.rome2rio.com

Great guide for solo travel in Jordan, its interesting how different our travel experiences can be when travelling as a female solo vs with a partner (especially a male partner!).

I have to disagree with you regarding Ramadan though, we found it an amazing time to visit Jordan! Yes most restaurants will be closed during the day (though tourist spots and big hotels should still be open), but experiencing the entire country stop for half an hour at Iftar (the breaking of fast) in the evening to pray and eat together is incredible. We joined the locals in fasting during our visit (though we still drank water- which a lot of people don’t), and it was actually surprisingly easy. It’s also less busy as some people are put off by the limited restaurants!

Thanks for commenting Ashley. That’s a good point about Ramadan. I wouldn’t be able to not eat though x

Can I ask the best way to hire a driver for a 9 day trip around the country?

Hi Cherene, I hired a driver when I was there for a full day. Jordania Aventura Drivers are highly recommended and you can read their reviews and book through Trip Advisor. Have a wonderful time x https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g293986-d6902406-Reviews-Jordania_Aventura_Drivers_Day_Tours-Amman_Amman_Governorate.html

Hello, i was wondering how safe is it to do the Jordan to Israel border crossing via public transport and for a solo female traveller in 30s? my tour finishes in amman. I need to get by myself from Amman to Tel Aviv or Jerusalem to join an Israel tour. Please advise the process and how safe it is to do this. thanks

Hi May, thanks for your comment. You can take a taxi from downtown to the border or take a bus from Amman bus station. There is an exit tax, payable at one of the 3 counters at the border (you need to go to all 3) before buying a ticket for yourself and your bag to board a minibus. Then it’s a 15 minute journey to exit Jordan and arrive at an airport style immigration in Israel. Rome2Rio shows that there are public buses and gives the numbers https://www.rome2rio.com/map/Amman/Jerusalem Have a great trip x

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The Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide to Jordan

01/07/2024 by Guest Blogger Leave a Comment

This is a guest post by Francesca Brooking.

Jordan is one of the safest countries in the Middle East for solo travelers wanting to dip their toes into the region. There isn’t a strict dress code for women like some of its neighbors, and Jordanians are some of the most hospitable people you’ll meet. 

While it’s regarded as a slightly more adventurous destination for solo female travelers, it’s growing in popularity and for good reason. The country is an adventure-lover’s paradise. Hiking trails meander through lush green wadis, and the deserts look like the surface of Mars. Here, you can also travel to the earth’s lowest land point and float in an salty sea. 

History buffs will by spoiled by the Crusader castles, some of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy, and the Nabatean city of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. 

Plus, well-established private transfers and tours make getting to Jordan’s famous sites easy and safe. Read on to find out what to expect from a solo trip to Jordan:

Table of Contents

Is Jordan Safe for Solo Travelers?

Yes, I found Jordan to be a generally safe country. Jordanians are warm and hospitable people who take a great interest in international visitors.

However, like anywhere , don’t go out at night on your own, and be wary of strangers. I did attract some attention from male bystanders, as they could see I was a tourist. It was mostly staring or a few shouts here and there, but they left me alone when I ignored them. They were mostly just curious, and I never felt intimidated. 

The biggest dangers in Jordan are pickpockets and scammers. Be cautious when people approach you or try to distract you, and keep your valuables hidden. In fact, leave your flashy accessories at home, since they’ll only make you a target. 

A common scam in Jordan is taxi drivers overcharging. Always agree on a price before you start your journey, and ask your hotel to book a reputable company. I recommend sticking to Uber in Amman — it’s very affordable! 

As a solo female traveler, I chose to dress more modestly than I otherwise would. Jordan is a Muslim country, but it doesn’t have a strict dress code. I didn’t want to draw more unnecessary attention to myself, however. 

How to Get Around Jordan

One of the biggest challenges of travelling solo in Jordan is getting around, as it’s not that easy. Here are your main options:

Public transport 

There are no trains in Jordan, but there is a bus network. The trouble is that the bus is a bit of an enigma. There’s no set timetable; they tend to depart when they’re full so you could be waiting a while. Intercity buses between Amman and Aqaba are popular and likely to be more frequent. For longer journeys or more remote destinations, there may only be one or two buses a day. If you miss the bus, you’ll have to return tomorrow. On the plus side, the fare is an affordable one Jordanian dinar. 

To be honest, though, I wouldn’t recommend relying on public transport to get around Jordan. 

Taxis and transfers

If you don’t want to drive but prefer to travel independently, taxis are a common way to get around Jordan. 

Use Uber to get around Amman. It’s easy, safe, and inexpensive (I paid less than two Jordanian dinars for a 15-minute drive). Outside Amman, taxi fares can be around 27-48 Jordanian dinars a day. 

It’s best to arrange taxis through the hotel or hostel you’re staying at, since they know which companies to use. Always negotiate your fare before you start your journey, as taxi drivers are notorious for taking advantage of those who don’t speak Arabic. 

Renting a car 

Renting a car gives you the most freedom and flexibility. The main tourist attractions are connected by well-maintained highways, so it’s generally safe to drive. However, I would be cautious about driving in Amman, since the traffic is often gridlocked and people tend to drive how they want. 

The cost of hiring a car is around 26 Jordanian dinars a day through a reputable company. Compare car rentals through Discovercars.com , or pick up a vehicle from well-known companies like Avis and Europcar at Queen Alia International Airport. 

Cellular signals are patchy in the desert, so don’t rely too heavily on it for directions. Download your routes to use offline if you can. 

Guided tours 

Guided tours are the most popular way to get around, since they’re super convenient and safe.

If you break out in a sweat thinking about enormous 56-seater coaches, though, don’t worry. There’s a combination of private and small-group day trips and multiday tours on booking platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide . They typically depart from Amman and Aqaba .

Another option would be group tours with operators like G Adventures and Intrepid Travel. 

If you’re a wing-it type of traveler , the tourist desk at your hotel or hostel should have tour recommendations. 

How to Meet Others When Traveling Alone in Jordan

Jordan is a very welcoming country, with lots of travelers passing through. You won’t have any trouble finding people to chat with. Some of the best places to meet people include the following: 

Hostels 

As always, hostels are backpacker hots pots, and there are plenty in Jordan. If dorm rooms aren’t your cup of tea , you could book a private room and hang out in the lounge. I like to get a sense of how sociable a hostel is by reading reviews.

Organized day trips and tours

These are a great way to meet other travelers from a range of backgrounds. It doesn’t have to be a big, multiday excursion (as mentioned above). You could simply turn up to a free walking tour and get chatting with other people. 

I love using GuruWalks for this. You can browse free tours by interest (there are a lot of food ones in Amman!) and tip your guide afterward. 

If you build a rapport with the people on your tour, you could arrange to go for food afterward and go from there. 

Coffee shops 

Coffee culture is huge in Jordan, so cafés are excellent hubs for meeting locals and tourists alike, even if it doesn’t go further than a chat. A good base for café-hopping is around Rainbow Street in Amman. 

You’ll most likely encounter local residents who will want to know all about you and share their own stories. One café owner dressed me up in a fez hat and traditional outfit, which was fun!

Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in Jordan 

Here are some of the best things to do for your Jordan solo travel itinerary :

Visit Petra 

No visit to Jordan is complete without seeing Petra . One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Petra is an ancient ruined city established by the Nabateans some 2,000 years ago. It’s dubbed the “Rose City” for the color of its hand-carved sandstone structures, among which you’ll find ancient Nabatean tombs, a monastery, and relics left behind by the Roman occupation in 106 CE. 

It’s most famous for the Treasury, a grand piece of architecture carved into the sandstone, but there’s so much more to see than that. The city covers over a hundred square miles!

To make the most of your time here, I recommend staying in Wadi Musa (the closest town to Petra) the day before and getting to Petra’s entrance by 6 a.m. (6.30 a.m. in winter), when it opens. That way, you’ll have the whole day to explore, and you’ll be able to get a good photo of the Treasury without the crowds. 

Petra is safe for solo travelers to walk around in, but you may find sellers being pushy about souvenirs or donkey rides. Just be firm and ignore them. 

Speaking of animal tourism, Petra is enormous, so it’s common to see people advertising donkey, mule, or camel rides. The problem is, these animals aren’t treated well. They’re forced to carry tourists without a break in the scorching desert heat. They’re beaten and denied water, and sustain horrible injuries. So please try to avoid riding these animals.

You can support businesses in other ways , like buying souvenirs or letting local tour guides show you the best photo spots (a handy way to get some nice selfies as a solo traveler in Petra!). 

If you have limited mobility, you can catch a ride on a golf buggy from the visitor center to the Treasury. It’s a 30-minute walk otherwise. 

Explore Jerash 

Jerash is an ancient Greco-Roman city north of Amman, nicknamed “the Pompeii of the Middle East,” as it was thought to be a thriving city before it was struck by a devastating earthquake in 749 CE. The site has been continuously inhabited since Neolithic times, but it’s most famous for having some of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy. 

There’s a Roman theater, a colonnaded street, Hadrian’s Arch, temples, and more to explore. I even encountered a Bedouin man playing a Scottish tune on the bagpipes, which was very surreal!

Float in the Dead Sea 

The Dead Sea is a saltwater lake between Jordan to the east and Palestine and Israel to the west. The shore is the lowest land point on Earth

It’s no ordinary salt lake though. It has a salinity of 34.2%, which makes it the fourth saltiest body of water in the world. Thanks to that, you won’t be able to sink in the water; you sort of bob on top. Always float on your back as the buoyancy makes it harder to right yourself in the water. 

You’ll only be able to stay in the sea for about 20 minutes before it starts to irritate the skin.

Look out for barrels of mineral-rich mud on the beach. You can rub the mud all over your body before washing it off in the sea. It’s essentially a free spa treatment!

The easiest way to visit the Dead Sea as a solo traveler is to stay in a hotel with direct access to it. I went to the Dead Sea Spa Hotel , which has a private beach. 

Take a tour of Wadi Rum 

Wadi Rum is quite possibly my favorite place in Jordan. This desert has been referred to as “the Valley of the Moon” thanks to its spectacular sandstone rock-meets-sand landscape. It’s located in the south, close to Aqaba and the Saudi Arabian border. 

Wadi Rum is a protected area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You may already recognize the landscape, since it’s been a filming location for the likes of Lawrence of Arabia , Dune , The Martian , Star Wars , and more. 

It’s also the home of the Zalabieh Bedouins who are able to preserve their way of life through the help of income from tourism. 

I recommend staying in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum (more on that later). From there, you can take a Jeep safari through the desert, listen to Bedouin music, enjoy a traditional feast, and go stargazing at night. It’s an absolutely magical experience. 

Snorkel in the Red Sea 

If you love snorkeling and scuba diving , make sure you visit Aqaba, a port city on the Red Sea’s Gulf of Aqaba. 

One of the most popular dive sites is the Yamanieh coral reef in the Aqaba Marine Reserve. It’s teeming with turtles and tropical fish. There are also some intriguing scuttled shipwrecks and planes and an underwater military museum to explore off the coast. 

If you feel like just having a beach day, head to Berenice Beach Club. You pay a small fee, but you get access to a swimming pool and a beach, which is more comfortable than a public beach on your own. The beach club can arrange for complimentary transport to pick you up from your hotel. Plus, you can book watersports and snorkelling trips here. 

Walk around Amman 

Don’t miss out on exploring Amman, Jordan’s capital, during your trip. Most of the main attractions in the city are downtown, which is easily walkable, so you don’t have to worry about getting an Uber or public transport. It’s a busy area, but it feels safe to walk around during the day. You may get accosted by the odd taxi driver but again, just say no. 

One of the highlights is the Amman Citadel, with its archaeological remains that date back to the Bronze Age. It is located on the summit of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Jebel Al Qala’a Hill, which has panoramic views of the city. 

The citadel’s most iconic site is the Temple of Hercules. Once a grand Roman temple, only parts of it remain, including two intact pillars. It’s thought to have been constructed around 160 CE. An Umayyad palace and a Byzantine church can also be explored here. 

The Roman Theatre is another cultural heritage site. Built in the second century CE, the 6,000-seat theatre is cut into the side of a hill. There’s a small museum to the side of it that showcases Jordanian culture through the centuries. 

If you have time, I recommend taking an Uber to King Abdullah I Mosque, the only mosque in the city that allows non-Muslim visitors.

For cafés and souvenir shopping, Rainbow Street is your best bet. And for the best falafel in town, head to the no-frills Hashem Restaurant.

Where to Stay in Jordan

If you’re wondering about the best places to stay in Jordan for solo travelers, here are some of my top recommendations. I’ve chosen places that are close to the main attractions in the area to minimize complicated transportation arrangements:

Amman 

Amman is a handy base for exploring the north of Jordan, since Jerash and the Dead Sea are only a few hours’ drive away. It’s close to Queen Alia International Airport, Jordan’s main hub, and you have the most accommodation options, including hostels!

I stayed at The Cabin , a low-key hostel in the heart of downtown. The beds were so comfy, and the staff at the reception desk helped me arrange transport for my onward journey. 

The Dead Sea 

While it’s possible to do a day trip from Amman to the Dead Sea, booking a night here gives you more time to relax, so you’re not worrying about getting back to the city. 

The Dead Sea is famous for its spa hotels, so you’ll find big luxury names like Kempinski , Hilton , and Mövenpick . A good affordable option is The Dead Sea Spa Hotel , the first resort built on the Dead Sea. It also offers day passes if you don’t want to stay the night. 

First Name:

Wadi Rum 

Wadi Rum is famous for its luxury bubble hotels and glamping experiences. More budget-friendly alternatives are the traditional Bedouin camps. They’re slightly less luxurious, but you’re treated to a comfy bed and a warm welcome — that’s what really matters, after all!

I stayed at Harb Eco Camp . It’s sheltered by sandstone cliffs, and each little cabin room has its own en suite bathroom. There’s a fire pit and a small restaurant serving breakfast and traditional Bedouin meals. Another great option is Bait Ali . 

Aqaba 

Aqaba is an ideal base for exploring the south of Jordan. Both Wadi Rum and Petra are reachable from here. It’s a popular city with tourists, so you have a decent range of accommodation options for all budgets, including hostels with co-working spaces. 

My Luxury Hotel is a reasonably priced four-star hotel with a rooftop swimming pool. It’s well located, and the breakfast was decent. 

From deserts that look like the surface of the moon to ancient cities carved from stone, Jordan is a country that will take your breath away. 

If you’re a first-time solo traveler , you may (rightly) feel daunted by the prospect of getting around, but day tours and excursions make exploring this Middle Eastern gem much easier. 

Once you do, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping beauty, incredible Levantine food, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. 

About the author: Francesca Brooking is a freelance writer and founder of Little Lost Travel, a sustainable-outdoor-adventure blog for solo travelers. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found with her nose in a book, on a trip, or planning her next adventure. 

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support this site at no extra cost to you when you purchase through them. Everybody wins!

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What You Need to Know About Solo Travel to Jordan

Posted on Last updated: March 15, 2023

I spent about 10 days traveling solo in Jordan (as a female) and want to share my experiences to hopefully help (and encourage) any other solo travelers or solo travel curious explorers to try it too!

Jordan is a middle eastern country that has managed to stay out of conflicts despite its location in the middle of many countries that sadly have not. It’s very progressive for the Middle East, is constantly ranked among the safest countries in the area, and has kind, hospitable people and incredible landscapes, culture, and history.

Here I will detail my experiences as a solo female traveling in Jordan. I arrived in Jordan on the ferry from Nuweibaa, Egypt, and traveled up the country solo until I reached Amman. I visited Aqaba, Wadi Rum, Petra, the Dead Sea, Amman, and Jerash on a day trip.

I took a variety of transports from organized transfers, public busses, a car with new friends I met while traveling, and ubers (in Amman). I stayed in a variety of accommodations, but mostly cheaper private rooms in hostels/budget hotels. You can check where I stayed in my Jordan Itinerary or see my Jordan playlist on tiktok (@kimmconn) for tips.

Solo Travel Safety in Jordan

I cannot honestly say I ever felt unsafe in Jordan apart from ONE time when I was arriving and some taxi driver tried to pretend he was my transfer, which I will talk more about later.

But even through spending time solo with bedouins in Petra, walking all around Petra and Amman alone, and taking public transport many times, I was more than welcomed in this country and felt safer than ever – even more than I would have back in the US.

I think it is absolutely safe for solo female travelers, but with a large dose of vigilance and care (as you should have anywhere). Jordan is a progressive Middle Eastern country with protected gender equality rights , consistent high safety ratings for the area, and hospitable, welcoming people.

Tourism is Jordan is generally safe and it is considered a very progressive country in the Middle East. crimes you must watch out for are mostly petty scams such as bag snatching, overcharging, and theft. Tourist areas are safe to walk around and tourism is a massive industry in Jordan. Border areas may be a bit more dangerous, especially with Syria, but there are not many tourist activities in that region.

Tips for Solo Travel to Jordan

Here are some things to know about solo female travel in Jordan from my experience and research!

Organize Private Transfers Ahead of time When You Can

One of the best ways to feel safe as a solo traveler in Jordan is to know that your private ride is coming for you. I love to organize private transfers through either a hotel I am staying at OR online on Viator (or similar) so I know that this driver has a loyalty to the hotel or booking platform and I can trust them.

I organized my transfer from Aqaba to Wadi Rum through my camp at Wadi Rum, and they were professional and respectful and I even had them drive me again.

BUT – Make Sure you get the Right Transfer

The scariest thing that happened to me in Jordan was someone trying to pretend to be my transfer driver to get a cab fare. Taxi drivers may be overwhelming and compete for your business even if you organized your own transfer.

A taxi driver came up to me and said ‘your transfer to Wadi Rum?’ I made the mistake of saying ‘Are you Khaled? (my driver’s name)’ and he said ‘yes.’ so I started to trust this random driver. Eventually, I learned that he was NOT Khaled when I asked a few more questions, but not until he had tried to put my bag in his trunk already!

I have learned that next time I should say ‘what is your name’ and see if he says the right name. You should too! Always ask questions.

Jordanians are Generally SO Hospitable and Respectful

I was WOW’ed by the kindness and hospitality of many Jordanians all over the country. I thought Egypt was incredible hospitality-wise but Jordan took it to another level. People constantly helped me on the street, made sure I made it to the right bus, or simply wanted to chat in a non-weird way – even the border security walked me to the exit of the ferry building.

Be Careful While Driving

If you rent a car, be sure to drive carefully as one of the biggest causes of harm in Jordan is traffic accidents. Renting a car is a great way to get around, and this is how I got from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea to Petra (with some new friends I met at my Wadi Rum Camp) but just make sure to be EXTRA vigilant.

Don’t Be Afraid to Make Friends

This is more of a general solo travel tip than a Jordan solo travel tip, but in Jordan there are MANY kind souls and other travelers looking to explore just like you. Make sure to spend some time in the common rooms of your camps, hostels, or hotels, chat with people, and meet locals too. Jordan is a great country for that.

If I didn’t stay a bit longer by the fire in my camp’s common room I wouldn’t have met two lovely Greek friends who offered me space in their car for the next day’s adventure. I still keep in touch with them today!

Be Wary of Border Areas

Jordan does have a few slightly iffy border areas you should probably steer clear from – with Iraq, Syria, and Israel/Palestine (although many cross this border too and the Dead Dea area is fine). Just be vigilant of these, although you will likely never go near any borders while visiting the main tourist destinations that are far from any border.

Jordan is Conservative, but Progressive

Jordan is one of the most progressive middle eastern countries with a great track record for respect for women. Jordan is home to one of the highest numbers of highly educated women and has a constitution protecting their rights to equality. That being said, many parts of Jordan do observe more traditional gender roles or gender separation (especially in some bedouin communities) and there are cases the equal rights are not fully exercised.

So while it can be considered conservative in many ways, it is also progressive in many ways as well, which you will surely notice here. Be sure to be respectful of the culture, especially if visiting more remote communities and bedouin camps.

Dress More Conservatively in Jordan

You should dress more conservatively in Jordan to respect the cultural and religious standards upheld throughout the country. While they may be unwritten or unspoken, it is polite to cover up more in this country. And by cover up, I mean you can avoid unwanted attention by covering at least to your knees and elbows without skin showing otherwise. Scarves and cardigans can help with this – always have one on hand!

Take Ubers in Amman (Or Make Sure Taxis Use the Meter)

Amman has Uber, so this is the BEST way to make sure you do not get overcharged for any journeys. If you do need to take a taxi from a bus station or otherwise, make sure they are accredited taxis and that they use the meter. If they won’t use uber’s price to come up with a price to negotiate from.

Beware of Petty Theft + Scams (and Check Prices Ahead of Time)

The biggest safety issue in Jordan is honestly quite small: petty theft and scams. In some busy areas pickpockets and thieves may be at work, so keep your belongings close and zipped. Scams in Jordan mostly consist of overcharging for items/tours OR charging tourists for something that should be free.

If you can, try and check up on prices of certain tours, items, or journeys online so you have something to compare with prices you are being quoted (such as the Wadi Rum tour, uber/taxi journeys, Petra Tours, Jerash Tours, souvenir items, and more).

Public Transportation is Safe

Public transportation in Jordan is one of the cheapest ways to get around the country! Make sure you know you’re route beforehand and how you will get to/from your hotel from the bus station, and you can save loads of money by taking public transport. I took a public bus from Petra to Amman (the staff at my hotel helped me figure out which one) and from Amman to Jerash and back.

If you are at the bus station are unsure which one to get on, simply ask people around you. I tend to walk up to the bus and ask people on it, “Amman?” (or whichever destination you are going to) and see if they nod and say yes (and this helps with language barriers also). Make sure to ask the bus driver to confirm when they arrive. Sitting at the front helps as you can ask the driver the name of your stop and they will be able to tell you when you reach it. Follow along on Google maps as you go.

Touristy Places are Safest to Be Around (if You Stay Vigilant with Your Belongings)

Touristy places are, of course, always a safe bet for tourists. These are the safest places to walk around solo! These are also the places to be the most vigilant about scams and pick pocketing, but if you keep your belongings safe and don’t pay for anything, you will be fine.

Know About (and Avoid) the Petra Love/Romance Scam

The biggest scam in Petra, to my disbelief, is actually a love scam run by bedouins. Some bedouins may use their charm to get women to fall in love with them and keep in contact with them after their trip.

I have read about women agreeing to trips with bedouins or to sleep with them in their cave. They are exceptionally charming and may say anything to get you to fall in love with them – some might ‘profess their love’ to you in Petra, but of course, it’s not real and you should not fall for any of this. They may also tell you about ‘some horrible thing’ that happened to a family member to get you to feel bad for them which is also not true.

These love scams consist of forming a relationship with one of the men at Petra, staying in contact with them for months, forming a stronger bond, and eventually succumbing to them asking you to send them money for something that has happened or even try to get a visa to your country. Never send anyone money. Check out ‘ Shakira the Donkey’ on Instagram to read about other women experiences and remain aware.

But Dont Be Afraid of Befriending Bedouins in Petra

Despite all this, many of the Petra Bedouins are kind and hospitable people. I had a great experience meeting and chatting with lots of them and didn’t experience any love scam attempts. I made it known straight away that I had a boyfriend and did not act in any romantic way, and they respected me.

Follow your gut and try and make sure that other tourists are around for anything you do with them – whether they invite you to dinner, to see their family cave, or on a tour and know how you are getting back after. Agree on a price beforehand and make sure you make it known you won’t pay a cent extra.

Don’t Pay Money to go to Any Viewpoint in Petra

This is one of the biggest ways locals try and squeeze money out of you in Petra. None of the viewpoints that are accessible via trails on the Petra map cost money to get to. You can sometimes tip a few JOD for a cup of tea or a photo if you want to. So don’t pay anyone large sums to be taken anywhere unless you want a guide, and if so, agree on a reasonable price that you have confirmed beforehand (5-15JOD should be a maximum for anything).

Where to Travel Solo in Jordan:

Here are the best places for solo female travel in Jordan:

• Aqaba (bigger city and easier to walk around or head to the beach)
• Petra (easy to walk around solo and follow the map, lots of tourists around)
• Wadi Rum (choose a camp and organize tours and rides through it, meet people)
• Dead Sea (the Dead Sea resort area is touristy and easy to pay a fee for a busy beach club)
• Amman (the city is busy and also touristy with helpful locals and plenty to do)
• Jerash (Jerash is easily reachable, touristy, and easy to walk around solo)

If you Are Unsure, Book a Group Tour for Extra Safety in Solo Travel to Jordan

If you are a bit wary of solo female travel in Jordan, there are lots of group tours that will take you to all the best spots with a group and guide built in, and therefore all the extra safety measures you could need. Many group tour companies are very solo travel friendly and will have other solo travelers you can meet.

I recommend the Jordan Discovery Tour with Intrepid Travel for solo travel in Jordan. Intrepid Travel is a globally renowned brand and has crafted a great itinerary for a good price and fantastic inclusions for about a week in Jordan (and you need at LEAST a week in this country). This will help so much with peace of mind and you won’t have to worry about a thing.

Or, Join Solo Travel Networks to Meet People

If you want to do your own thing but still be open to meeting other travelers, join solo travel networks and forums to see if others are traveling at the same time.

If you stay in Hostels, Hostelworld now has a ‘chat’ feature where you can chat in a group with other travelers at your hostel or in your destination at the same time.

You can also check out the best apps for solo female travelers for your needs or join GAFFL to find travel buddies looking at solo travel to Jordan too.

I hope this has helped you answer the question, ‘Is Jordan Safe for solo female travellers?” and that you are inspired to take the trip of a lifetime! Make sure to check out my Jordan itinerary that I did solo (with tips of where to stay and eat) and message me on Instagram if you have any questions I can help with 🙂

Privacy Overview

Solo Travel Jordan – The Travel Planning Essentials

Jordan flies under the “next best travel destination” radar most of the time. The name might be familiar but it’s often heard in the context of Israel or goings on in the middle east. But Jordan is worthy of your attention. This little country in the middle east has a lot to offer in a small space. Desert landscapes like Wadi Rum, historical mountains like Nebo and Umm Daraj , ancient cities like Petra, and plenty of opportunities to take part in sports activities like hiking, mountain climbing, and diving make Jordan a compact, yet packed destination for independent travellers.

In this post, I’ll give you some great tips on the major sites like Petra and Wadi Rum . I’ll also discuss a few practicalities like getting around, where to stay in Amman and what to do there, and the kinds of things to watch out for in Jordan.

I’ve also included some short anecdotes from my recent trip to Jordan. Check the blue boxes. Enjoy Jordan!

Why Visit Jordan?

The country’s position at a critical point on the Silk Road , its proximity to Syria and Iraq, and the buffer zone between Israel and Arab nations in the Middle East means that Jordan plays an important part in international politics. The Romans ruled here for four centuries and the rich history of the region is visible everywhere. 

Jordan has a lot to offer in a small space

During the last 60 years, Jordan has been a place of relative peace. King Hussein , the revered head of state between 1952 and 1999, acted as a peace broker in the region. 

Despite the political stability, incredible history and natural beauty, Jordan is still finding its feet in the travel & tourism sector. 

News of the region on international television and internet channels affects tourist numbers. Many people lump Jordan in with the war zones, refugee camps, and dictatorships of neighbouring countries. Thanks to the reports of conflicts in that part of the world, tourists to the region are a little more adventurous. 

Epic Landscapes & Fewer Tourists

If you’re looking for a less touristy Egypt, Jordan is the next best thing. Combining beautiful landscapes with the history and physical reminders of thousands of years of settlement, Jordan is a small country with a lot to offer. And in case you didn’t know, scenes from the movies Lawrence of Arabia and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom filmed here. In “Lawrence”, David Lean’s epic movie , Wadi Rum stood in for, well, Wadi Rum in 1916. Watch the movie to get an idea of just how beautiful and barren this part of the world can be. The Temple of Doom contains a scene in which Indiana Jones enters the Treasury in Petra . I’d guess that this single scene alone sparked a huge increase in interest in not only Petra, but Jordan and the Middle Eastern region.

http://nomadflag.com/visit-amman-jordan/ But that’s not all, Jordan has one side of the Dead Sea, the Jordan River, the spectacular Roman ruins of Jerash, the tourist resort of Aqaba, and the buzzing capital of Amman. 

Best time to visit Jordan

For the coolest temperatures and fewest tourists, visit during the winter months of December, January, and February. This is also the rainiest time of year. The further north you go, the cooler the weather in winter. Aqaba can bathe in 20 degrees C while Amman freezes in the winter months.

July and August (visitor low season) see fewer tourists but the hottest average temperatures. You’ll also get the longest days and the most guaranteed hours of sunshine.

Divers should head to the southern coast between September and November.

Currency: Jordanian Dinar. Sometimes written as JOD or JD. Pronounces Jay Dee as in “The meal cost ten Jay Dees”

Is the Jordan Pass Worth it?

A definitive yes . If you plan to spend more than one day in Jordan, the pass will save you plenty of money. The Petra entrance fee alone will cost you almost as much as the Jordan Pass. And holders of the Jordan Pass have their tourist visa waived at immigration (as long as you stay for at least three nights in the country). 

There are three categories of pass: Wanderer , Explorer , and Expert . I opted for the Jordan Explorer, which gives you 2 days in Petra. The number of days in Petra is what determines the pass you take.

The Jordan Pass is great value. If you’re staying for longer than a day, it’s a must-have.

1 day, get the Wanderer, 2 days Explorer, 3 days Expert. The other benefits are the same across the three categories

What else do you get? Entrance to Jerash, Wadi Rum, the Amman Citadel, Umm Quays, the Roman Theatres in Amman, the Lowest Place on Earth museum and many more. 

The Jordan Pass will save you money and time. Just show your pass at the entrance to any site (most of them) that accepts the pass and walk straight through. Keep a digital copy on your phone and show it to the officials.

Note: the pass expires two weeks after first use. 

How to get to Jordan

If you’re based in Europe (or you make a continental connection), you’re in luck. As of late 2018, Ryanair is running flights to the Red Sea port town of Aqaba from major European cities. It’s a cheap way to get to a country not considered a budget destination.

There are direct flights from the following cities to Aqaba: Athens, Cologne, Rome Ciampino, Sofia.

To Amman , there are direct flights from Bologna, Brussels, Bucharest, Budapest, Krakov, Malta, Milan Bergamo, Paphos, Prague, Vienna, Vilnius, Warsaw Modlin

These flights are great value (I grabbed a €9 flight from Rome to Aqaba and a €15 from Amman to Budapest). The taxis to the airports were more expensive in both cases.

There are two international airports in Jordan

• Queen Alia International Airport, a modern, recently refurbished building, lies 40km south of Amman. The best way to get to the capital is by taxi.
• The other airport is King Hussein International Airport, north of Aqaba. A small airport but efficient and within easy reach of Aqaba city.

Driving over from Israel is possible but it can sometimes be a circuitous trip. The geography of the mountains, the sea, and border crossings means you can only cross over at certain points. There are three border crossings only.

Getting from Jerusalem to Petra , for example, is a 450km journey through the far north or far south of the country. Flying might be the best option. There’s a 10 JOD fee to pay at land border crossings when entering or leaving the country. 

You can also arrive in Jordan by Sea. Many travellers visit Jordan after visiting Egypt by taking the short trip from Taba to Aqaba . At $90 USD for a return trip, it’s not quite backpacker-friendly, but the alternative is to travel through Israel, which will work out similar in price once you spend time at borders and pay for travel. Israeli stamps on your passport might also cause you problems if you travelling to other Arab states (Egypt and Jordan exempted) so be careful with this route.

The only disadvantage is with taxi transport to and from major sites. If you take cabs alone you might find you spend more than you budgeted for. Ask your hotel or hostel manager or front desk if they know of other tourists that might share a cab.

Getting Around Jordan

The roads are of a high standard and the driving isn’t too bad. However, Jordan’s tourism infrastructure is still lacking. Plan your travels and avoid wasting time.

Jordan websites are stuck in 1997 so don’t expect to get much more than cursory information from them. And don’t expect online booking systems. Wherever possible book through a provider you already know and trust. 

Taxis are the main transport option for tourists. Unfortunately for budget travellers, taxis in the country are not cheap. And drivers almost always smoke cigarettes. One after the other. It’s not a great travel experience. 

The bus from Petra to Amman drops you in the southern part of the city. You must get another taxi from there (or navigate a long bus journey and connection) to get to the centre of Amman. It should cost around $5 but if you get quoted higher, shop around. Ask the bus driver before you get off for the actual price.

If you plan on taking buses in the cities give yourself lots of time and expect to do a lot of chatting with locals (a good thing, in my book). If you’re pressed for time, I’d suggest avoiding bus travel. 

By Rental Car

Renting a car is a good option. The driving here isn’t half as bad as in places like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, or Iran. Self-driving wins as the most practical way to get around Jordan. Driving allows you to jump off at stops that only tour buses visit. You can spend as long as you like (or as short as you like) at the dead sea. Getting from Aqaba to Petra or Petra to Amman is twice as fast with your own car.

Try Europcar for consistently good rates.

By Bicycle & Train & Air

Cycling is also possible and is a great way to get around the country between major towns. The Cycling Jordan Facebook page is a good place to start if you’re looking for more info. Keep in mind that biking around the cities will reduce your chances of living to a ripe old age.

There aren’t any (regular) trains in Jordan, which is a pity as it’s a beautiful country for a long train ride.

Flying between Amman and Aqaba is quick (30 minutes) and cheap (less than 100 USD) and is a viable option for avoiding backtracking. 

Where to go – Jordan Tourist Attractions

The big six places to visit in Jordan are

• The Dead Sea.

You could also add Jerash in here but it’s not as well known as the other three. If you’re short on time visit these three. If you can only choose two, skip the Dead Sea. 

Jordan is not a backpacker destination, by any means. Even for Europeans, the Jordanian Dinar is strong (on a par with the British pound) and costs are similar, if not more expensive than in Europe. 

Turkish coffee will cost you anything from €0.50 ($0.60) to €1.50. But Turkish Coffee is an acquired taste. A regular coffee (Americano, Cappuccino, or Espresso from a machine) will set you back anything from €2 to €5. And the coffee is poor quality.

Public transport is cheap but runs at its own schedule. Tour buses and private buses are the most common transport most visitors around the country. Independent travellers are not the target demographic. Taxis are the most convenient way to travel but you can expect to pay accordingly.

Buses that travel between major centres like Aqaba and Petra or Petra and Amman leave when all seats fill up. You might wait a long time before you even start your journey. The journey from Petra to Amman by bus costs around US$10 . A taxi costs around $60 but will get you there in a third of the time (if you include the time spent waiting for the journey to start)

Lunch of kebabs and a soft drink costs $7-8 in Petra and Aqaba. The capital has more choice and cheaper prices for foods as long as you stay away from the touristy areas when eating. 

Accommodation options are cheap and shabby at the low end and upmarket and very pricey at the high end. Jordan because its perceived as a safe destination in this region. As a result, it attracts wealthy visitors.

Food & Drink

I’d like to point out that I’m not a fan of Jordanian food. Vegans and vegetarians are well catered for but vegetables are often limited to tomatoes, eggplant, and salads. There’s no pork, obviously, and beef is poor quality.

Lamb in Jordan on the other hand, is pretty darn good. This is the red meat of choice and it’s been staple meat in this region since, well, people arrived here. 

There are some superb dishes in Jordan, despite my reservations. The meat, when prepared well, is tender and delicious. The vegetables, when there’s variety, taste great. And delicious spices and sauces turn rice dishes into something to write home about.

You will feel at home if humus, falafel, yoghurt, tahini, garlic, bread, olives , and rice ring your bell.

Jordanian food borrows from its neighbours. In effect, the entire region has developed it’s cuisine together. The shifting geographical borders of the lands and zones here means that what is now Jordan was part of larger kingdoms, states, and colonies at various stages of the region’s history.

You’ll no doubt find Mansaf on the menus in Jordanian restaurants and I’d encourage you to try it, if not only for the cultural experience. It’s the Jordanian meal and consists of lamb, Jameed (see below), rice, nuts, and delicious spices like cumin, saffron, and cardamoms. Mansaf, traditionally served on a big platter for everyone to pick from, is a must do dish, if only for the social tradition. 

Jameed is a goat yoghurt and is an essential part of Mansaf. I love it. If you’re not used to goat’s milk it can be musty or salty (it’s hard to describe the smell and flavour) but it’s worth persevering. In a Mansaf, any hint of goat-iness is hard to discern.

Jordanian shawarma is everywhere. Similar to the Kebab, typically associated with Turkey, and Gyros from Greece, the shawarma from this part of the world is generally made from lamb or chicken. The sauce is almost always tahini and the meats marinated. Street-side takeaways are the best places to buy Shawarma. 

Breakfast in Jordan might leave the carbo-loading cereal fans feeling empty. Olives, cucumber, yoghurt and some pita bread is the typical first meal of the day here. But it’s delicious (and much more nutritious than a continental or cereal-based breakfast), so there’s no reason not to try it. 

Jordanian coffee (cheap at less than USD 0.50 is generally the Turkish type. Gritty and bitter, made more drinkable by the addition of tons of sugar. Without sugar, I can drink the first few sips. But when it gets close to the gritty sediment, I can’t give up. I wonder what havoc the coffee grinds cause to the stomachs of the locals. 

Accommodation

The high-end hotels keep to a good standard. 5-star hotels are plentiful in Petra, the Dead Sea, and Amman.

Lower end hotels can be rough around the edges. For the same price as a hotel room in cities like Rome, Berlin, or Istanbul, the quality is lower.

Hostels pop up around major towns and tourist areas and prices are comparable to other tourist destinations. 

The Lacosta hotel isn’t a budget option but it’s great value. Prices run from around $80 USD a night. The hotel’s location is one of the best in the town and the rooms are clean and inviting. There’s a nice breakfast too.

If you want to splash out a little (or if your budget goes further) the Kempinski Hotel is gorgeous and an excellent choice for a night in Aqaba. I love the Kempinski hotel chains and if I get the chance, I’ll spend a night in one. Expect to pay a couple of hundred dollars a night but I’ve seen deals as low as $120 for this hotel. Check in advance and avail of Agoda’s special offers and discounts. 

Jordan is safe. There hasn’t been a war since 1973. Israel and Jordan signed a peace accord and the Jordanian government often acts as a ‘neutral’ intermediary in conflicts in the region.

According to NationMaster , official crime levels in Jordan are almost 50% less than in the United States.

Watch out for scammers (there are plenty) and anyone that out of their way to help you.  

Solo female travellers in Jordan should prepare for travel in Jordan as they would in any Muslim country. Dress according to local sensibilities. Wandering around in skimpy clothing probably won’t get you into any tricky situations, but you’d be showing a complete lack of respect for local tradition and customs.

Don’t expect to enter mosques or any important sites if you don’t have the proper attire. And this goes for men too. Shorts and singlets not only send the wrong signals and show a lack of respect, the authorities ban them from many sites.

The UK Foreign travel advice sends a few warnings about isolated terror attacks in malls around the country on the official website but with almost 100,000 British people visiting every year and next to zero incidents, we can assume it’s a safe place.

Don’t cross the border into Syria or Iraq. In fact, straying close to the borders, especially the Syrian border, could land you in trouble. 

Although the locals welcome foreigners with courtesy, don’t accept lifts from strangers. 

In Imman I ordered an Uber and the drive arrived less than 10 minutes later. During taxi rides, I like to ask a few questions to find out what kind of driver I’m riding along with. Over-sharing, boring taxi drivers can really put a downer on your day, but I’ve met some interesting characters on my travels. The taxi driver and I got talking on the ride to the airport. I found out that the driver was a successful textiles importer in Jordan. In fact, it sounded like he had a bit of an empire. He’d travelled to Iraq, Mongolia, China, all over Europe, the US, Kenya, and plenty of other places that most people can only dream of. Why was he driving a cab? Because he likes driving and because Jordan is expensive. His business can manage itself without him being at the helm 24/7 so he uses his spare time to drive and earn a bit more. 

Where was his favourite place in the world?

Iraq, before the war, he said.

I was so interested in hearing his story that when he dropped me off at Queen Alia International airport, I left my camera in the cab. And I realised that I hadn’t backed up any photos at that stage.  One of the best features of Uber is the ability to track your driver and also communicate directly with them. I called my textile magnate driver and he promptly returned with the camera.

A small crisis avoided.

I asked the driver (let’s called him Ahmed – it might have been that) what he felt about Israel and Israelis. His reply was that the people of this neighbouring country were his brothers. He felt only love for them and they were the same. Of course, he knows there were some bad eggs in the basket and that the news only focussed on the bad stuff, but he liked the people and he welcomed them to his country.  I liked hearing this. Made me realise once again that people everywhere are just trying to get on with their lives and get along with their neighbours. It’s the radicals, politicians, and people with hidden agendas that cause all the problems. They’re in the minority but they have the loudest voices

Aqaba is the only major town on the southern coast of Jordan, at the southernmost part of the country. The Jordanian coastline is quite short and you can even see Israel, Egypt and Saudi Arabia from the port. Eilat is just across the border with Israel.

The beaches are nothing to write home about but the snorkelling and diving are world class . Many years ago, I spent a few weeks snorkelling on the other side of this narrow red sea channel along the coast of Egypt, near Dahab. It’s one of the best places in the world to see sea life, coral, and wrecks up close.

There’s also a thriving watersports industry in Aqaba and the rest of this part of the Red Sea.

The water close to the beach here smells mildly of gasoline so it’s not the ideal place for splashing about. Unfortunately, water pollution is an issue and a lot of the damage to the coral (one of the most diverse reefs on earth) and marine life is from the trash left on beaches and thrown off boats by local and international tourists. 

The Aqaba Castle (Aqaba Fortress) is underwhelming .The history of the place is the most exciting part, but it’s something you can read about without stepping foot in the place. In early 2019, quite a bit of it is still under restoration, which makes it even less appealing. The castle entry fee (although inexpensive) is included in the Jordan Pass ticket price.

The 12th-century building was originally a Crusader fortress and the original construction was destroyed by the Sultan of Egypt and Syria, and rebuilt in the 16th century.

Right in front of the castle is an enormous flagpole carrying the flag of the Arab Revolt (against the Ottoman rulers in 1916, which Lawrence of Arabia had a bit to do with)

To the west of the large roundabout on Al-Husein Bin Ali Street you’ll find a concentration of pubs, restaurants, and to the South, you’ll find a few shopping malls.

Food & Drinks

I found the food choices in this town better than anywhere else in Jordan. This might be partly thanks to the volume of tourists that pass through. There are some typical Southern Jordan dishes that you should try. 

The Rakwet Kanaan Restaurant (open from 7 am to 2 am) isn’t the cheapest, but it serves delicious fish and side dishes. And the portions are large. Jordanian food is the focus and you can find some traditional local dishes here that are absent from many of the international food-focused places nearby. The outdoor seating is great for warm evenings, despite the lack of any real view. This is also a cosy spot for a couple’s dinner. 

Alibaba Restaurant , one of the better-known eating places in town, was recommended as much as it was rejected by the locals I asked. I didn’t try it but it’s very popular so might be worth a snack to test the waters. 

The night before I left for Petra I asked the hotel manager and a couple of other random people about getting to Petra. I also checked the guidebooks online and the usual places.  Turns out that Jordan isn’t a great place for easy independent travel. But who said travel should be easy, right? Nobody could accurately tell me when the bus to Petra (one of the main tourist attractions in the country and a draw for almost 100,000 people a month) would leave. “How can there not be a bus schedule?”, I asked. Turns out that most people arrange everything beforehand. The locals use buses, of course, but they tend to leave when the bus fills up and it appears to be an insider secret where they leave from and when.

I woke early and wandered down to the bus station (more a car park with no discerning features – at least not of the “bus station” type. With no transport in sight, I asked the locals their thoughts on the next bus to Petra. The hysterical laughter and stream of Arabic from the group made it clear I wouldn’t get any useful information that day.

Just then, a tiny old man approached and, in good English, asked if I was going to Petra. I’m naturally cautious and suspicious of strangers approaching me offering guidance or help. So I said yes but made it clear I wasn’t interested in paying for an expensive taxi. The man explained that the bus wouldn’t arrive for a couple of hours (might have been true) and that had to leave for Petra to pick up a client. He was scheduled to arrive in a few hours but he could take me early (for him) if I wanted. His price was half the going rate. So I accepted his offer. 

I was glad I took the cab, not only because it was faster and cheap, but because the cab driver was a good travel companion. We talked about living in Jordan, Islam, alcohol, Saudi Arabia, money, international relations with Jordan’s neighbours and random pub talk. He was happy to discuss and I learned a lot.

I noticed that there were a lot of liquor stores in Aqaba (later I’d see even more frequent liquor stores in Amman) and I asked the driver if Jordanians drank a lot. He was coy with the answer, almost as if he didn’t quite want to admit it but said that “yes, some Jordanians do drink”. When I wondered out loud how Jordan’s neighbours in Saudi Arabia (less than 30km away) felt about this. Saudis live under a much stricter regime. He took a long breath and told me that they come across the border in their thousands to drink. They also stock up on booze for the trip home (Aqaba is a duty-free zone) and hence the checkpoints on all roads out of the city. 

The taxi man had spent years driving trucks all over the middle east. He enjoyed it but his children convinced him to quit after the gulf war and the current problems in Syria started. It was too dangerous, he said.  Which part of the middle east did he like best? Again, the answer was Iraq. Before the war, of course. In my lifetime, I’ll likely never see the true glory of Iraq, the modern name of Mesopotamian Babylon, where writing, astronomy, and mathematics were developed. Friends tell me that the country is still well worth visiting, and it’s on my list.

The Middle East’s Next Best Travel Destination

My advice to independent travellers is to avoid travelling Jordan on a strict budget. The money saved is just not worth the extra hassle. Rent a car or grab taxis when you can. Arrange tours before you get there so you know what you’re getting. Renting a car will make visiting places like the Dead Sea and Jerash more convenient (and cheaper in the long run)

Both Wadi Rum and Petra are unforgettable and should not be missed. Stay overnight in both places for the best experience. Buy the Jordan Pass! Bring walking boots and do some hiking. Don’t forget your camera. Enjoy!

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• The ultimate solo travel guide to Jordan: Everything you need to know

Nicola Gibbs 22nd Oct 2022 11 min read

For the solo traveller , Jordan ’s historical treasures are just the tip of the iceberg. While the Kingdom of Jordan might be a relatively new country, its land boasts a mind-boggling array of ancient sites and antiquities, along with nature reserves, desert landscapes, spice markets and coral reefs, plus endless possibilities for adventure . 

This curious mix of old and new can be seen throughout the country. Bedouin shepherds graze their goats on the outskirts of sparkling high-rise cities. Five-star spa resorts line the mineral-rich shores of the ancient Dead Sea. And upscale restaurants in the capital, Amman, serve refined Levantine cuisine that’s made using age-old Arabic recipes. 

Petra is the country‘s undisputed highlight: a once-thriving Nabataean city carved into pink sandstone cliffs. You also won’t want to miss the Roman wonder of Jerash or the Martian landscape of Wadi Rum, where you can spend a night under the star-filled desert sky. Wherever you go, you’ll experience Jordan’s famous hospitality, along with copious cups of sugary tea. 

If you’re keen to explore this relaxed Middle Eastern country but you’re unsure where to start, Flash Pack‘s Untold Jordan trip is packed full of can’t-do-by-yourself activities that you’ll experience alongside a group of like-minded solo travellers – all in their 30s and 40s. Here’s  everything you need to know about a solo holiday to Jordan .

Jordan travel facts

An Arab Kingdom bordering Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Israel and the Palestinian territories, Jordan is a haven of stability within a region of conflict. It may have become independent as recently as 1946 but its civilisation dates back thousands of years. With evidence of conquests by the Greeks, Romans, Muslims, Christian Crusaders and more, the country has over 100,000 archeological sites, with six Unesco World Heritage Sites , including Petra and Wadi Rum – the former is also considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. 

A whopping 75% of Jordan is covered in desert, with red sandscapes and towering cliffs in the south, stony arid plains in the east and a lush forest to the west. The Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth, at around 420 metres below sea level, and the water here is nearly ten times saltier than the ocean, making it difficult to swim but very easy to float. Jordan is also virtually landlocked, apart from a 16-mile stretch of coast along the Gulf of Aqaba in the far south.

Is Jordan good for solo travel?

Solo travel in Jordan is a rewarding choice for adventurous types, with plenty of vibrant cities, ancient sites and dramatic landscapes to explore. Its small size and good road infrastructure make it easy to cover a lot of ground, taking just four hours to travel from Amman in the central north to Aqaba in the south. On a week-long trip, you can take in all the major highlights, including Petra, Wadi Rum and the Red Sea. 

Jordanian women enjoy much more freedom than in neighbouring Middle Eastern countries, and female solo travellers should feel comfortable, too. But if you’d feel more at ease exploring as part of a group, Flash Pack’s 8-day  Untold Jordan trip is packed full of handpicked activities that will immerse you in the local culture and landscapes, including jeep rides, secret hikes and unique desert glampsites.

Best places to visit in Jordan

What should you do on a solo holiday to Jordan ? From Amman, a modern city with a youthful buzz, to the classical Jerash ruins with extensive Greco-Roman temples and Byzantine churches, to Petra and the colossal remnant of the Nabataean Kingdom, there’s a wealth of things to see and do. 

On Flash Pack’s Untold Jordan trip, you’ll combine some of these big hitters with bespoke experiences that immerse you in the local culture. You’ll begin your journey in the capital and on the shores of the Dead Sea. Then, depending on the time of year, you’ll either stay in an ecolodge o n the edge of a biosphere reserve or go canyoning in Wadi Mujib. You’ll also take a secret passage into Petra and meet a Bedouin family, race through sand dunes on desert jeeps and snorkel in the coral-rich Red Sea.

Where to stay as a solo traveller in Jordan

What are hotels like for solo travel in Jordan? You’ll find a full range, from five-stars to family-run guesthouses and authentic Bedouin camps. Popular areas such as Amman, Petra and Aqaba have the widest choice, while the Dead Sea spa resorts are some of the finest in the world. Jordan has a number of excellent eco lodges, too, including the award-winning Feynan Ecolodge on the edge of the Dana Biosphere Reserve. You’ll also find some unique glamping options from luxury tents to futuristic domes – the perfect way to experience comfort under the desert skies. 

Accommodation in Jordan offers a wide variety for solo travellers. When you travel as part of a Flash Pack group, you’ll have the added option to share a room and save on the single supplement, meaning you can afford to splash out at places that might otherwise be beyond your budget. If you’d rather have your own space, that’s fine, too.

How to get to Jordan

The easiest way to kick off a solo holiday to Jordan is by plane. Most international flights arrive in Ammam’s Queen Alia International Airport, 30 kilometres outside of the capital, with direct flights from Europe and North America. Travellers from Australasia can fly via Bangkok, Dubai or Abu Dhabi. There are also a few direct flights from Europe and Egypt to the Red Sea town of Aqaba. 

Travelling overland to Jordan is also straightforward, with convenient border crossings from Israel and Egypt. Alternatively, you can travel from Egypt to Aqaba on a one-hour ferry across the Red Sea. However, arriving in a new country can be daunting for solo travellers. With Flash Pack , airport transfers are included in the price and, once you’ve collected your luggage, private transfers will take you directly to your hotel so you can enjoy a relaxing start to your trip.

How to get around Jordan

Public transport in Jordan is limited and mainly geared up for locals. Minibuses and air-conditioned coaches tend to depart when full, rather than adhering to a timetable, which can mean waiting around, especially on less-travelled routes. There are some tourist buses available for independent travellers, however, many visitors choose to rent a car or hire a private driver. Roads are in good condition, although do be aware of unmarked speed bumps, potholes and drifting sand. 

If you’d rather not have to worry about getting from A to B, experiencing solo travel in Jordan as part of a Flash Pack group means all domestic travel is taken care of. You’ll have a private air-conditioned minibus and a local driver, so you can sit back and enjoy the epic scenery.

Best time to visit Jordan

The majority of Jordan has an arid desert climate, however, a Mediterranean climate prevails in the north and west of the country. The best time to visit depends on where you’re going and what you want to do. 

For hiking and other activities, spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) are pleasant, when days are warm (in the 20s) and the nights are cool. Summer (June to August) is a good time for relaxing by the beach but can be uncomfortably hot, with temperatures reaching 40 °C . In winter (November to February), Jordan experiences snow and the nights can be cold, particularly in the desert. Most rain falls during the winter but showers are usually short and sharp.

Jordan travel itineraries

Flash Pack’s 8-day  Untold Jordan trip is designed specifically for solo travellers. As part of a group, you’ll be able to enjoy experiences that would be difficult to arrange by yourself. We’re talking: a canyoning adventure through the Wadi Mujib, led by an expert guide; hiking a 15 kilometre secret ‘back door’ route to Petra; and enjoying a dramatic jeep ride through the Wadi Rum before sleeping out under the stars at a luxury desert camp. 

You’ll also sample authentic Jordanian food at a top restaurant in Amman and experience weightlessness in the Dead Sea. You’ll end your trip with a chance to snorkel some of Aqaba’s finest coral reefs, before watching the sunset over the Red Sea. What better way to end a solo holiday to Jordan?

What to pack for solo travel in Jordan

What you take will depend on the time of year that you’ll be travelling. During the summer months (May to October), you’ll need lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the soaring temperatures. In winter (November to April), you’ll need thicker layers for the chilly desert evenings. Packing some warmer tops and a light jacket will help make sure you’re prepared. Supportive hiking shoes, preferably with ankle support, are best if you’re planning to take to the peaks. Don’t forget your swimwear for the hotel pools, as well as the Dead Sea and Red Sea. And you’ll want a sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen all year round as the sun can be very strong.

Solo travel advice for Jordan

Jordan is one of the safest and most progressive countries in the Middle East but you’ll still need to be mindful of cultural differences. As with any Muslim country, solo female travellers might prefer to dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention. Generally, it’s a good idea to keep your shoulders and knees covered, especially at religious sites. This also has the added benefit of keeping the sun and insects off of your skin. If you feel more comfortable in shorts and T-shirts, they are fine as long as they are not too revealing or low cut. 

Travelling with Flash Pack offers added security, especially when venturing off the beaten track. Your expert local guide will take you beyond the obvious sights, bringing your trip to life through their knowledge and expertise.

Is it safe to travel solo in Jordan?

Thousands of visitors experience solo travel to Jordan every year and most trips are trouble-free. However, do check out the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (UK), the Department of State Travel Advisories (US) or your country’s local government guidelines for the latest advice before travelling. Once there, follow local advice and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Jordan is a politically stable, tolerant and generally relaxed country. However, it’s not advisable to travel to certain areas, such as the borders with Syria or Iraq. Most people speak English and are friendly and willing to help as much as they can. Solo female travellers may find themselves a figure of curiosity. As with anywhere, avoid walking alone at night or in isolated areas. For added safety and security, why not travel as part of a Flash Pack group with other like-minded solo travellers.

Ready for your next adventure? Try group solo travel to Jordan with Flash Pack – designed exclusively for people in their 30s and 40s, seeking the independence of solo travel within the safety of a group.

A cool 98% of Flashpackers arrive solo to join our group adventures . So, you’ll be in good company – whether a first time solo traveller or a seasoned pro looking for like-minded new friends.

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• Tailor Made

Solo Travel To Jordan

Small group adventures for solo travellers.

Highlights of Jordan - 8 Days

• Amman to Amman
• Age range: 12 - 100
• Group size: 16

Jordan Multisport - 8 Days

A Week in Jordan - 9 Days

• Age range: 16 - 99
• Group size: 20

Premium Jordan - 8 Days

• Age range: 15 - 99
• Group size: 12

Explore Jordan - 8 Days

• Amman to Madaba
• Group size: 14

Jordan Discovery - 8 Days

Real Egypt & Jordan - 15 Days

• Cairo to Madaba
• Age range: 18 - 35

Are you thinking about travelling to Jordan alone? Why not consider joining one of our small group tours? If you're thinking being led around with someone holding a flag think again! These are modern, immersive and fun adventure holidays giving you an experience you'll never forget!

On average, 50% of those who book with us are solo travellers. Each small group is made up of typically between 8 and 14 people with a mix of gender and age. The average age varies depending upon the particular adventure.

You'll have a guide who will help introduce everybody on day one before you embark on your holiday adventure. Included in the price is the guide, accommodation, often meals and activates as well as any gear, each specific adventure page will provide details.

During the adventure there is plenty of free time and no obligation to spend every minute of every day together. Below are some ideas and some examples of the adventures we have but please browse our website and do get in touch! We have an expert team on hand to help at ay time.

Hassle-free adventures

Our aim is to make it as easy and enjoyable as possible to experience unique trips at the best price, no matter if you travel on your own or as part of a group. You will be able to socialise, meet new people but also have some time to yourself throughout the holiday.  

Accommodation made easy

We try to make this part as simple as possible. You will be paired with another traveller of the same sex to share a room during your adventures so you won’t have to pay anything extra. If you prefer your own room you can pay a little extra (we work hard to keep this as little we can) which we can arrange after making your booking, just let us know. 

Authentic and affordable trips

We try to work with as many local providers as possible. It means we can offer you the biggest range of adventures and it enables you to see countries in a more unique and authentic way. Plus, we can keep the cost of the trip down by cutting out the middle man! 

We work hard with our suppliers to minimize extra costs like single room supplements for solo travellers.

Like-minded travellers

Most trips are guided in small groups, usually made up of between 10 and 15 people. In these groups, half or more will be fellow solo travellers. You get to meet like-minded people who all have the same sense of adventure and thirst for exploring. You'll have a local tour leader to look after all of the group’s needs and logistics and ensure you have the best experience while you are away.

Independent travel

If you like to travel a bit more independently, we have a selection of tours that are self-guided. We will equip you with all the things you may need for your adventure and you can explore at your own pace. Again, we try to keep any single supplements as low as possible by working closely with our local partners.  

Adventure Holidays For Singles

If you're single this type of holiday is fantastic, we would say that but they really are. We have loads of trips for different age ranges and interests. The small group adventures offer a social holiday for singles which provide an immediate group (or squad) to explore with. You'll certainly make friends for life. 

Hope to hear from you soon.

How do I meet everyone in the group?

You'll meet everyone face to face on day one, typically meeting in your accommodation reception or bar at 18:00 but this can differ. The guide will be there too to provide some information and help with everyone getting to know one another.

Will I have my own room?

You can either share with someone of the same gender or if you'd prefer your own room you can select your room and pay a little more during the booking process.

Are there activities every day?

Each adventure will contain a mix of travel, experiences and free time. The idea is not to rush but to enjoy! there is enough that the children will be entertained!

Is the guide with us all the time?

When you're travelling then typically yes and for activities too. During free time the guide will not be with you but is always contactable.

What is the accommodation like?

The accommodation is usually 3 or 4 star. More details are on each trip page or in the brochure. You can always speak to our team who can provide much more information.

Are vegetarian food options available?

Yes, vegetarian food options are available on all tours. The guide can also point out great places to eat if meals are not included in the tour price.

Can I talk to someone to find out more?

Of course, we have an expert team on hand to talk to you. 

Please contact us if you'd like to find out more by telephoning: UK - 44 0208 004 8886 US - 1 917 472-9385 All - 0333 006 2683 or email us on [email protected] or submit an enquiry on the website and we'll be in touch.

Will we require a Visa?

Maybe yes. Please see the latest travel advice from the FCO. 

Why book with The Adventure People?

You may be thinking ‘why should I book with The Adventure People?’. Here are just some of the reasons we stand out:

The Best Value

Not only are our prices usually the best in the market but our leading service coupled with the financial protections we offer mean you won’t find better value anywhere else.

Your Dedicated Travel Expert

Our travel team is the best in the business and we’re not just saying that. The moment you make an enquiry we’ll pair you with your own dedicated expert who is on hand to answer your questions, look after your booking and make sure you have a fantastic time.

No Waiting Times

We only have one phone number with no automated services. When you contact us you’re straight through to a member of our team and a human! 

Financial Protection

We are ATOL certified, members of ABTA and run a Trust account for our packages ensuring you’re fully financially protected. 

Flexible Payments

We offer low deposits and monthly payment plans at no extra cost. 

We can add flights to any trip you book with us and we’re happy to help with Round The World tickets!

Accommodation

We work with wonderful accommodation providers and our team can quote almost any hotel in the world at the best prices.

Transfers & Extras

We can easily add airport transfers or extras to any booking. Our team will always quote the best possible price and be able to update your booking.

Speak To Our Team

Call or email our expert team to find out more and help with ideas and planning.

Call to add flights or build a tailor-made adventure

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Contact us by phone or email about your adventure holiday, tour, flight or tailor made travel enquiry

What Our Customers Say

Trust the adventure people.

Communication was excellent both by email and over the phone, everyone I had contacted followed and actioned my request or answered my question politely and efficiently.

Would definitely recommend this company.

The staff are super helpful and friendly and always answer e-mails as soon as they can.

Trip achieved all my expectations!

The tour that I booked with The Adventure People met all my expectations. The local agent in Vietnam kept in regular contact with me during my trip. All of the connections worked perfectly. The hotels were all of a good standard and comfortable as well as being in a good location. Would definitely use them again

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Solo Female Travel in Jordan

Solo female travel in Jordan is an exciting and rewarding experience for any adventurous woman. Jordan is a Middle Eastern country located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by Syria to the north, Iraq to the east, Saudi Arabia to the south, and Israel to the west.  It has some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Asia—from historic ruins to rugged mountainscapes—and plenty of activities for travelers looking for a unique adventure. 

For solo female travelers in Jordan, there are several things you should know before embarking on your journey. In this article, we’ll explore how to dress, where to stay, and what other customs to know before embarking on this unforgettable adventure.

Is Jordan Safe For Women?

It turns out Jordan is one of the best places to solo travel. Like most countries, however, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your trip remains fun, immersive, and safe. Here’s a quick list of some dos and don’ts when solo traveling in Jordan as a woman:

• Do dress conservatively, especially in the more rural areas – long pants and sleeves are recommended
• Don’t wear revealing clothing
• Do be aware of your surroundings and trust your gut feeling if something doesn’t feel right
• Don’t go out at night to explore unfamiliar territories, especially alone
• Do have a list of local emergency numbers on hand
• Don’t accept rides unless it is from an acquaintance or a registered taxi driver

That being said, our private transfers are a great way to utilize comfortable transport between cities while knowing your safety isn’t being compromised. Joining a tour group is another wonderful option guaranteeing you a safe and adventurous trip.

Our tours run throughout the country, providing tourists with a chance to see everything with experienced and insightful guides. These Amman tours are a great way to see the urban capital, and these Petra tours will whisk you off on a magical journey to the ancient city.

What To Wear in Jordan as a Solo Female Traveler

When traveling alone in Jordan as a woman, it’s important to dress modestly. This means avoiding tight or revealing clothing and, instead, opting for loose-fitting garments such as long skirts, pants, and shirts that cover your arms and legs. Bringing a headscarf can help you blend in and is considered respectful when visiting religious sites. 

In the major cities of Amman and Aqaba , the dress code is more relaxed than in the smaller towns and villages where traditional customs still dominate. However, even here it is wise to err on the side of caution – especially when visiting mosques or other places of worship.

During the peak tourist season, which is typically from April to October, you should bring very light layers as the weather can get quite hot, up to 40°C (104°F). The shoulder season, however, is an ideal time to travel solo in Jordan, as the temperatures are still warm enough for sightseeing but not too hot to be uncomfortable, usually around 25°C (77°F).

If you’re still struggling with what clothes to pack, check out this helpful guide on Jordan’s dress codes.

Where To Stay

Hotel accommodation in Jordan is generally of a high standard, with most offering great amenities and services. For solo female travelers, it may be best to stay at hotels or hostels near major attractions and in populated areas.

In Amman , some popular areas include the Jabal Amman and Downtown districts, which offer a range of options from budget-friendly to mid-range. 

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Petra offers stunning desert landscapes and plenty of activities. 

The Dead Sea is another great option, with many hostels and hotels located around the area offering stunning views of the sea.

Where To Go in Jordan

There are plenty of amazing places to explore in Jordan and a wide range of tours that allow you to see them.

Jerash is one of the most popular destinations, being an ancient well-preserved city. Founded in the 2nd century BCE, you will enjoy exploring Roman ruins, markets, and other local sites. 

Amman is Jordan’s capital city, and it offers a variety of attractions such as museums and galleries. It also has great food options for those looking to sample traditional Jordanian cuisine. You can see both of these incredible cities on this tour .

Petra and Wadi Rum are two of Jordan’s most iconic sites. Petra is an ancient city carved of red mountainous rocks, and Wadi Rum is a stunning desert oasis with spectacular views and plenty of opportunities for adventure activities, like this Jeep tour . You can see them both on this combined tour .

You can also visit the Umayyad Desert Castles , located in the eastern desert region of Jordan. These castles are a great way to explore the country’s history and culture, as they were built in the 8th century by the Umayyad caliphs.

If you always wanted to see more of the Middle East while in Jordan, consider embarking on a cross-country journey to Israel or the UAE , courtesy of our tours.

Stay In The Know While Solo

Jordan can be the best place for solo female travel, as there are many incredible sites and activities to explore, as long as you keep safe. From cooking classes and private culture tours to snorkeling and an unforgettable Petra experience , you’ll have the time of your life. Remember to dress appropriately, use good judgment, and plan your trip according to your preferences. With just a little research and planning you’ll have the time of your life.

And why not maximize your travel experience by taking a tour? Tourist Jordan ’s wealth of options will make your stay memorable and safe, allowing you to experience it all in total comfort.

Subscribe for Insider Tips to Jordan Enter your email address to stay in-the-know of what's new in Jordan. We promise to only send you guides to the best experiences. Email Keep Me Updated

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About Jordan

One thing that Jordan doesn’t lack is a deep sense of history. From the easily recognized architectural magnificence of the Petra and the Roman ruins of Jerash, to the fading frescos in the 1,300-year-old desert castle of Quseir Amra, it is a tale of interaction with other societies that serve to embellish a nation already in possession of its own cultural wealth. There is indeed an awareness of this cultural richness among its denizens; one that allows easy accessibility, which is why Jordan is warmly receptive of its visitors and has acquired the reputation of being one of the friendliest nations in the region. While its history is legendary, equally magical is its natural beauty. The copper hued valley of the vast Wadi Rum with its rippling dunes, its cliffs that fall and merge with granite towers and wind sculpted arches certainly entices one to linger over them just that little longer. On the other hand, the clear waters of the Dead Sea beckons bruised bodies and tired souls to literally stay afloat in its healing waters while further down its southern end, Aqaba, hugging the Red Sea coastline calls out to beach seekers with its tranquil blue waters. There is so much more here to fill out a traveller’s wish list for people in their 30's and 40's. Checking them one by one could be an addictive past time.

Whether you're 30's or 49's, explore beautiful Jordan with other young adults. We offer various adventure tours that will take you to the ancient city of Petra, discover the archaeological and historical treasures of Amman, and experience the grandeur of Wadi Rum.

Best time to visit:   is in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The days are warm, with temperatures between 16 C (61°F) and 37 C (99°F), but the nights are cool. It's not too hot for exploring sites or hiking in the nature reserves

Currency: Jordanian Dinar

Weather and Average temperature:  the climate is overall mild and dry and has an average temperature ranging from 8.5 °C (47 °F) in January to 26.5 °C (80 °F) in July and August.

National Language: Arabic

Top Dishes to try:  Mansaf - a platter of white rice spread over paper thin whole meal flatbread topped with lamb cuts, and soaked in a sauce made from dried yoghurt. 

Evening Candle Light Visit Petra

Be enthralled twice over as you walk through a canyon bordered by candles and emerge at Petra’s crowning glory, the Treasury, illuminated by even more candles and an ethereal lighting that bounce off its contours.

Wadi Rum Jeep Safari

Access the often far flung sites of the Wadi Rum on 4WDs and get a deeper sense of its scale and beauty, while acknowledging at the same time, its often hostile and unforgiving nature to those who should lose their way here.

Wadi Rum Camel Ride

Get a sense of the Bedouin life as you set off on a camel safari through a backdrop of orange sand, rocky outcrops of beige and towering sandstone cliffs that sits on the outskirts of the Rum village.

Dead Sea Swimming

The salinity underscores the futility of swimming here, but you can always float like a carefree cork in the still, spanking blue expanse of the Dead Sea waters and soak yourself in its purported purifying content.

Jordan Trips

19 Days Egypt And Jordan

8 Days Discover Jordan

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5 Tips for solo female travel in Jordan

By Joan Torres 7 Comments Last updated on April 2, 2024

Located at the heart of one of the most turbulent regions on Earth, bordering Syria , Iraq , Israel and Palestine and Saudi Arabia , it is not surprising that some travelers, especially solo women, may present some safety concerns when venturing to this Levantine destination. 

However, despite its blurry location, the truth is that Jordan is a country that, somehow, managed to dissociate itself from the Middle Eastern conflict so, today, it is a safe, touristic destination that welcomes any type of traveler and, with proper planning, any solo female traveler can enjoy. 

Natalie Sarrett , a 22-year-old woman who grew up in Central Asia and the Middle East, and traveled in Jordan by herself, claims that Jordan is a fascinating country that no solo female should ever miss. 

In this guest post, she will take us through 5 Travel tips for making your solo female trip to Jordan a success .

As a 22-year-old woman who has had the privilege of spending most of my life (over 17 years) in nations other than my native homeland, America, I often get asked about what visiting Middle Eastern countries is like for a single white female.

Unfortunately, this question is frequently asked with the connotation that vacations are not worth the safety risks that may be attributed to journeying in Arab countries alone – I hope to dissuade those fears through educating fellow travelers on what simple tricks of the trade can make for a more carefree adventure in one of the most beautiful regions I have been able to explore thus far.

After receiving so many emails from really kick-ass female travelers who want to wander around some of the most off the beaten track countries in the world, I decided to open a  Solo Female Traveling  section on my blog, to help women get to know the reality of traveling solo in these countries. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you think you have a nice experience to tell!

1. In order to be more culturally sensitive, s olo women travelers in Jordan should know that clothing is key

Remember to get travel insurance for Jordan I strongly recommend IATI Insurance as it has COVID-19 coverage + 5% discount Get your exclusive 5% discount if purchasing via this link

Despite what some trekkers may prefer comfort-wise, it is extremely important to respect the unspoken (or sometimes overt) rules of attire in whatever country you may be visiting, but especially in North Africa and the Middle East.

Guidelines related to clothing preferences are often tied directly to religious observation or societal correctness and, as guests in Jordan, it is crucial to understand that not adhering to those rules is viewed as disrespectful to their culture.

If you want to avoid unwanted stares or advertising that you are a tourist, I recommend observing the “ankles and elbows” rule: try to ensure your ankles and elbows are kept covered for the majority of your outdoor excursions; obviously, this rule fluctuates a bit when you are at popular tourist sites like the Jordan River – where baptisms are often taking place – or Petra – where foreigners are more prevalent than locals, but as a general rule, I have found it helpful.

Additionally, although Jordan is known for its rolling dunes and dry ravines, the desert actually gets quite cold at night – or, if you’re visiting during winter, can be frigid throughout the day as well, due to high wind chill factors – so packing long-sleeved shirts and perhaps a hoodie or two, though it may seem counterintuitive, is highly recommended.

I would suggest this precaution particularly if you’re planning on exploring one of the well-known wadis ; making sure your face is covered either with sunglasses or a hat will also help with windburn!

Read: 9 Misconceptions about visiting Saudi Arabia as a female

2. For solo women, touristic sites are easier and less challenging to travel around, but still, they are worth it!

As much as I hate to say it, there’s a reason certain sites are tourist traps – they’re really worth it.

Widely visited Jordanian tourist sites like the ruins of Petra, the Dead Sea, and the Wadi Rum are great for solo women travelers because they are heavily populated with other tourists from all around the globe, so chances are you will hear your language being spoken at one of the sites and get invited to tag along with a tour group.

Touring with other people can be a deterrent for getting singled out by pickpockets or overly aggressive panhandlers that can sometimes be intimidating for women sightseeing alone; I would especially encourage this if you are considering a tour of the bluffs and canyons throughout Wadi Rum because it is more of a singular destination that can often take well into the night to roam.

Other popular destinations with a lot of foot traffic are the Red Sea scuba and boating terminus, Aqaba; the zip lining experience at the Mujib Nature Reserve; and the plethora of archaeology opportunities at any of Jerash, Madaba, or Qasr Al-Abd’s sites.

However, for female solo travelers looking to explore Jordan in its natural state, meandering through Amman’s outdoor markets and Al-Balad downtown area is a good way to experience Jordanian food at its finest (you can’t go wrong with khunafeh and shawarma) and engage in the ancient art of haggling.

3. Pick a guide you are comfortable traveling with as a solo woman traveler

I don’t know that I can overemphasize this point enough.

As a female solo traveler, if you have booked a tour guide or an adventure director through a travel agent or website, I would heavily advise reading other women’s reviews of the guide and overall experience.

If you are going to be spending a majority of your trip out in unfamiliar settings with a stranger, it’s important to glean all the information you can go into it in order to avoid potential hiccups along the way.

Also, specifically regarding how rich Jordan’s history and current sociopolitical climate is, having a well-informed and friendly guide can make all difference in how much contextualization you receive for ongoing archaeological digs, the significance of past partisan figureheads, and their overall present-day relevance.

I would hate for anyone to miss out on the dense historical framework that continues to shape Jordanian life because the guide that was booked is subpar or ill-informed.

Some key phrases to look for when reading tourists’ reviews are   “family friendly,” “well-informed,” “punctual,” and “organized.” I have found that a lot of these terms can be code for “won’t make unsolicited advances,” “proud of and updated on local history,” “familiar with western perceptions of promptness,” and “has a structured plan for the day’s events.”

Another keyword to keep an eye out for is “local,” not only due to its implication of being inherently knowledgeable, but also in light of the fact that if you are visiting a foreign country, you want to hire a tour guide who has personal vestment in the nation, as it almost always ensures a better quality of tour.

Moreover, as a visitor, you want to be contributing back into the population’s direct economy, and this is a more certain way of doing that than employing a corporate or third party hire.

For my personal Jordanian experience, I was lucky enough to have booked a local guide for the week who spoke multiple languages and could give restaurant suggestions, mediate shopping transactions, and answer any questions that may arise about cultural appropriateness in Jordan – it was quite possibly one of the best tour guide experiences I have ever had!

4. Go on a desert safari

Even if you’re not super into nature escapades, just do it; you’ll thank me later.

With its vast gorges and weathered rock formations, the Wadi Rum is my preferred safari destination and probably the most accessible and frequented by tour groups.

You would be hard pressed to find a Jordanian agent or company who didn’t offer day tours or overnight experiences, and the variety of options extended means you can afford to be picky about what specific type of adventure would best fit your schedule and style as a solo woman traveler in Jordan. 

Among some of the more nuanced activities presented are hot air balloon rides, sand boarding lessons, Bedouin road abseiling, guided hiking tours, and camel safaris.

Personally, for fellow female explorers, I would recommend booking a Jeep tour of the sandstone canyons. I was taken to a Bedouin camp a few miles into the ravine and introduced to a multi-generational nomadic family who recounted their own history, as well as the Wadi’s, while serving Jordan’s traditional tea and dessert combo.

Afterwards, I was taken to several natural bridges (Um Fruth, Burddah, etc.) and allowed to hike them – while taking as much time as necessary for pictures and water breaks – after which, it had gotten cold unexpectedly, so our guide was kind enough to make an unexpected stop and build a fire for those of us who were more temperate.

Many of the Bedouin camps also have small shops where you can purchase souvenirs or trinkets from the trip, and all the shopkeepers I encountered were more than willing to walk you through the historical significance each item represented.

If your tour does last into the night, many guides will take an evening prayer break during which you are free to take more photos or wander the nearby terrain.

Read: Visiting Iran as a solo female traveler

5. As a solo woman traveler in Jordan, be aware of the cultural differences

Honestly, Jordan is a very tourist-friendly country, and most of the negative stories I have heard of western women travelers in the region have been direct results of their not adhering to local customs.

Excluding the more modern parts of Amman, Jordan does observe the segregation of genders in a lot of public places, including some restaurants and means of public transportation; as a guest in their country, it is important to respect the rules as they stand – especially as a solo female traveler – and only eat, shop, travel, etc. in the sections designated to women.

Gender roles are also held more distinctly in that it would be strange for a woman to be out alone at night in the city center or at bars or clubs, so you may be approached or experience unwanted stares if you choose to engage in the nightlife scene unaccompanied.

I have found that the best way to navigate those situations is not to make eye contact or respond, as prolonged eye contact is often seen as flirting (whereas in western countries it is just a polite means of acknowledgment).

Aside from that, I always encourage solo female travelers in any country, but especially when in the Middle East, to be observant of your surroundings and do the necessary research to understand cultural expectations before booking your ticket.

The more you know beforehand, the less you’ll be scrambling in the country to find suitable clothing, ticketing agents, and living accommodations.

Conclusion – Solo female travel in Jordan

My experience roaming through Jordan was extremely positive, and I would highly recommend it as a gateway to Middle Eastern travel for any unaccompanied female travelers who perhaps are nervous about or inexperienced in the region.

Jordan provides an excellent blending of modern and ancient customs and has embraced, more so than its neighbors, an elevated view of women that makes it that much more enjoyable to visit on a solo journey.

More solo female travel guides

• Solo Female Travel Guide to Iraq
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Iraqi Kurdistan
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Iran
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Lebanon
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Oman
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Pakistan
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Saudi Arabia
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Sudan

As a former academic editor and long-time writing enthusiast, Natalie’s passion for the power of the written word and visual journalism was cultivated throughout her childhood adventures, as she grew up in Central Asia and the Middle East. These early cross-cultural experiences helped to foster a dedication to ethical storytelling that has inspired her pursuit of non-profit and freelance writing. To keep up with her journeys, visit her personal site   or follow her on Instagram @namastenatos . If you want to read more about Natalie’s overseas adventures, here are two articles about her time in Greece and the Czech Republic .

Dear Natalie,

All my respect! I respect any blog coming alive and I highly appreciate your insights. But all the blogs about solo female traveling in Jordan pretty much tells you the same. So… I have around one and a half years of experience with living and traveling solo in the Arab world and the Middle East including Jordan. But as I see you have more. I either travel by myself or with local friends. Thanks to the high number of local friends who I know through conferences and events I orgnized in Europe and the Middle East, I have a pretty deep understanding of the Arab world. I agree with all the points you made except one. All the blogs are saying, including yours, how important it is to wear appropriate clothes in order to avoid unwanted attention. The reality of Jordan, and that of Morocco, Tunisia and Egypt, is that it doesn’t matter what you’re wearing you will not get less or more unwanted attention. And that would be confirmed by any woman from the above mentioned countries. The same way a covered Jordanian woman on her own can get attention, any solo female tourist in mini skirt would get attention. It’s all comes down to the fact that you are a woman on your own. In my case, as well, it doesn’t matter what I’m wearing, I get the same amount of attention. Some people say because of my hair color and bla bla. That’s not true. I witnessed also very ugly fat women and also covered women getting the so-called unwanted attention. I think I also wrote that in my blog about traveling in Jordan.

I respect your experience in the Middle East and Jordan. I also respect your sophisticated writing skills, but I feel that this blog is missing some hard facts. Sorry, I’m pretty straightforward. I mean hard facts, like how to handle harrasment or how to handle the swindlers in Petra which any solo female traveler can encounter. You can talk to any Jordanian woman about it. I feel that too many bloggers prefer only sharing things superficially. I was wondering about that these days as I’m traveling in Morocco now for almost 2 months. I feel that they write what some tourism boards or agencies want you to write.

I’m no professional writer but I hope I could get my message across.

Respectfully, Diana

Hey Diana, which Middle Eastern countries have you been to, besides Jordan and Iran? Would you like to write a guest post?

Great insights into travelling Jordan as a solo woman! I visited with my partner recently and found the experience and treatment much different than my previous experiences in the Middle East and Asia when travelling solo. Love the tips about ‘code words’ to look for in reviews, I have bookmarked them for future research, thanks!

Jordan is my number one recommended country for safe female solo travel in the Middle East. I always recommend it to friends and other solo female travelers. I’ve been to twice. I drove around the country on both occasions. I find that the people are always willing to help you. On my first trip I landed at an unholy hour and came to find out that the rental car kiosk at the airport was closed. I spoke to a cab driver outside the airport and he drove me to the rental car main office. He even phoned the owner using his cellphone. I would be very uneasy to be in a cab, alone at night in my native city, Manila. As far as clothing goes, I dressed normally, nothing too provocative. I would get stared at but I think that’s because I was traveling alone.

Did your travel guide belong to a specific company or it was independent? How can this person can be contacted? I am travelling alone to Jordan in September and I do not feel comfortable going around alone in a country I have never visited before.

I am travelling to Jordan in july and i really need a local guide or a driver to drive me around. Do you have any suggestion

The article says solo female travel but you had a guide for the entire week. So, where you solo or did you have a guide? I want to know about traveling solo to Jordan not with a guide. This article was profoundly unhelpful if you weren’t actually solo.

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Your Travel Flamingo

Digital Nomad & Female Travel Blog

1 Week in Jordan for Solo Female Travelers

December 9, 2020

Jordan, home of the Lost City of Petra, and land of starry desert nights. This country is small, but if it’s an adventure you’re after, it will deliver. Independent travel is the best way to see the country on your own terms, and even without a car, it’s possible to see the highlights in one action packed week. Here is the ultimate travel guide and itinerary for 1 week in Jordan for solo female travelers.

Introduction

Jordan is a new country, on land with history that dates back further than biblical times. This region has played a prominent role in religious history, with many references to this ancient land in religious literature. It was on Mount Nebo that Moses was said to gaze at the Promised Land. According to the bible, Jesus was baptized on the Jordanian banks of the Jordan River. Today, it is one of the most stable and peaceful countries in the region, currently ruled under a monarchy.

It’s a small country, so you can see a lot in just 1 week in Jordan.

Things to Know Before you Go

Check the Visa Requirement

Almost all foreign nationals will need a visa to enter Jordan With the exception of a few, which are those from Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestinian Authority, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Tunisia, or the United Arab Emirates.

For Americans, we can obtain a visa on arrival. It will cost 40 dinars, but I strongly recommend getting the Jordan Pass instead.

Get the Jordan Pass

As long a your trip is longer than 3 days, you probably should get the Jordan Pass . The fee includes your entry into the country, so you won’t need to purchase a visa, additionally, saving you $56 USD.

The Jordan Pass will give you free entry into 40 of the countries historic and tourist sites. Entry into Petra alone costs 55 Dinars ($78 USD), so the pass pays for itself by covering that and the cost of a visa.

I recommend the Jordan Explorer Pass, which is 75 dinars ($106 USD) because it allows you to visit Petra for two days, which is necessary if you want to see it all.

Plus, it will save you money on any other paid tourist activities included on the pass.

What to Pack

Jordan is a desert, so while scorching temperatures may come to mind, if you are visiting in the winter months, it will be cold.

I visited Jordan in February, and while the day time temperatures were still t-shirt weather, the nights were freezing. Make sure to pack according to the season.

Additionally, Jordan is a muslim country and the local dress code should apply here. Although my airbnb host assured me that they are becoming increasingly easy-going towards these rules, it’s better to err on the side of caution to avoid unwanted attention.

1 Week in Jordan Packing List

• 3-4 T-shirts : To be worn in warm months alone and to be layered in colder months. In all seasons, it’s pretty hot at Petra during the day, so loose, breathable fabrics are best.
• 1-2 Maxi skirts : More comfy and breathable than pants, and are culturally appropriate
• 1 Pair of sandals : For exploring in the cities in summer, and necessary when visiting the Dead Sea.
• Hiking shoes : I managed without a pair, but you’ll do better if you bring them. Outside the cities, you’ll often walk on rocky, uneven terrain or sand. Bring sturdy shoes that are comfy to walk in all day.
• 1 hiking outfit : You’ll do some hiking at Petra and when walking to Wadi Mujib. Bring some leggings or yoga pants and a hiking top that covers both the shoulders and your belly
• 1 bikini : to be worn at the sea
• 1-2 maxi dresses (optional) : These are comfortable, culturally appropriate, and look beautiful in photos
• A hat : The sun here is strong and you’ll be glad you brought one
• Sunglasses : Necessary at the sea and in the desert
• A Scarf : For entering mosques
• Enough clothes to sleep in : Keep in mind, when you visit Wadi Rum it is likely you will camp. Bring something you’d be comfortable and warm enough in during those desert nights. Regardless, of season, it gets chilly at night
• The usual : underwear, socks, bra

Additional Clothes to Bring in Winter

• A waterproof jacket : You could get away with a regular jacket, but you may also experience a desert storm, which become more prevalent in winter, and wish you had one
• Loose jeans : If it’s still too cold for you, you can wear leggings underneath
• Sneakers : For exploring the cities in the colder months
• Go-pro/waterproof camera : Optional, but good to have especially if you’ll go snorkeling or diving in Aqaba
• Mosquito repellent : Even in February during the coldest month, I got mosquito bites all over my face and neck in Wadi Rum. Come prepared
• Sunscreen : The sun is strong, especially in the desert and at Petra
• A flashlight : To use in the desert and in Petra at night

When You Arrive

Once you arrive at Queen Alia Airport, in the arrivals terminal you will have three options for network providers in Jordan: Zain, Orange and Umniah.

My host recommended for me to go with Zain, so that’s the SIM card I got.

The SIM card itself cost 10 dinars ($14 USD), and to put 10 GB of data on it, another $10- $11 USD.

The network coverage in Jordan is pretty good, I basically always had service, except in Wadi Rum.

Consider Renting a Car

The cost to rent a car is not expensive when split with multiple people. But, if you are a solo female traveler, it may not be the most cost effective solution, although the most convenient.

I did Jordan without a tour or car, and it’s very much doable, even if you have only 1 week in Jordan.

Taxi vs Uber

If you don’t rent a car, you’ll need to get a ride into the city.

My host advised against using taxis, because they are known to jack up the price for foreigners.

Uber, is virtually hassle free, and although more expensive than the regular taxi rates, is the better option. You won’t have to deal with potentially getting ripped off, which unfortunately, the chances of are high.

You’ll also avoid constantly going to the ATM to get more cash, because you’ll pay on the app.

Local Customs

Although I found Jordan to be pretty open and easy-going comparatively to other countries in the region, I still think being mindful and over-respectful is better than potentially being culturally insensitive.

If you’ve been to a muslim country, you may already know what types of customs to adhere to. If not here are important things to remember:

What to Wear

Generally, it would be best to keep shoulders, knees and chest covered. If you want to visit a mosque, you’ll need a scarf to cover your head, although the mosque can lend you one for a fee.

Friday is Prayer Day

On Friday, if you try to go eat at a restaurant or get any errand done before noon, you will have a hard time. This is the weekly time for prayers, and most businesses will be closed as the owners head to their local mosques to pray.

Avoid Talking About Israel / Palestine

From the minute I left the airport, my host wanted to talk about Israel/ Palestine. This was not the only time, and it came up many times throughout my month in Jordan.

No matter your stance on the matter, it’s best to just listen, and not give too much of your opinion. You may underestimate just how sensitive this topic is.

I once offended my host’s friend by merely saying I was planning a trip to Israel. Seriously, tread lightly on this topic.

Itinerary for 1 Week in Jordan

Day 1: amman.

Spend your first day exploring Amman. There aren’t that many major things to see in Amman, so a full day is more than enough to see it all. Here are things to do:

King Hussein Bin Talal Mosque

This is the largest mosque in Amman, and open to tourists for visits. Please note that it is actually 10 kilometers outside the city center, on the outskirts of Amman.

It’s a large and lavishly decorated mosque. If you are willing to make the trip, it’s worth the visit.

Roman Amphitheater

If you are interested in history, this is a very well preserved insight into a past Amman, back when it was called Philadelphia, which translates to “City of Brotherly Love”.

This particular ancient amphitheater used to seat over six thousand spectators during the peak of the Roman Empire.

It’s worth noting, if you’ve seen your fair share of ancient amphitheaters before, or have already paid a visit to the Colosseum in Rome, this may be underwhelming. Feel free to skip it.

Entrance fee : 1 dinar (free with the Jordan Pass)

Eat the Best Falafel at Hashem Restaurant

This restaurant was recommended by basically everyone I met, and it did not disappoint. In a country like Jordan where eating out can be a pricey affair, this place is the perfect for budget and taste.

You can come here to get authentic, and hefty portions of falafel at local prices. Don’t forget the hummus!

A very filling meal here can cost as low as 1-2 dinars ($3.00 USD).

Find it here .

Go to the Citadel

This will be the highlight of your day in Amman, for sure. Situated high above the city on the Jebel Al Qala’a Hill, the citadel also doubles up as the best viewing point of the entire city.

I would definitely recommend going an hour or so before the closing time, or as close to sunset as possible.

Once here, you’ll find ancient ruins from the Ammonite civilization. There are temple ruins, the most notable one being the Temple of Hercules. Its two pillared columns are the tallest structure still standing on the Citadel, and is also the best place to take sunset photos.

Entrance fee : 2 dinar ($2.82 USD) or free with the Jordan Pass

Explore Rainbow Street

If you want to experience a night out while in Jordan, look no further. This street is full of cafes, shisha bars, restaurants, and at night, people.

You can also dine at Sufra , which claims to be one of the best restaurants in all of Jordan. It is quite popular, even among Jordanian royalty, so give it a try. Here you can try some Jordanian cuisine. I recommend the mansaf.

Eat at Shawarma Saj

My local friend took me here late night, after a night of drinking on Rainbow Street. It’s crowded, and you’ll see why. It’s so freakin good, you will consider getting two.

I recommend getting a classic chicken shawarma with fries. And sauce! The dipping sauce is amazing.

Find Shawarma Saj here .

Day 2: Wadi Mujib and Dead Sea

On day two you can head to Wadi Mujib early in the morning to go for a hike.

By car, it is about 1.5 hours from Amman.

Unfortunately, this is one of the only places you will have difficulties reaching without a car. If you are solo and don’t want to rent a car, you can always hitchike.

Jordan is an extremely safe country, so you can hitchhike without worries. As a courtesy, you can give people that pick you up 1 dinar but it’s not obligatory.

If you choose to visit Wadi Mujib, you should expect a 2 – 3 hour roundtrip hike.

This hike follows a river canyon, between towering red rock walls. It’s mostly flat, but you will be walking through the river itself, which depending on the season can be quite high. This is where your hiking boots come in handy.

Parking is free, but you can’t enter the reserve area at all without booking a guided tour. This will need to be booked in advanced.

The 3 hour trek starts at 21 dinars ($30 USD) while the full length trek is 46 dinars ($64 USD) and takes 7 hours to complete.

In the winter months, the trails are closed to the public due to higher chances of flash floods. If you want to trek Wadi Mujib, plan to visit Jordan between April and October.

If you don’t want to hike, spend the day at the sea instead.

The Dead Sea

You can reach the Dead Sea by car or by public bus, from Amman.

It was a little confusing figuring out how to take the public bus, and you’ll have to be prepared for delays, but otherwise it was a smooth journey.

Note that the bus won’t take you directly to the Dead Sea, but close enough and from there you can hitchike or take a taxi. More info on how to get from Amman to the Dead Sea by bus here .

If you are driving, you’ll want to put “Amman Beach” into your GPS.

Once you arrive at the Dead Sea, you will have to pay 25 dinars ($35 USD) to enter the beach areas.

Tourist Beach vs Local Beach

Once inside, you will realize there is a designated tourist resort area, that charges an additional fee to enter. They will tell you that this is where you can get access to the Dead Sea mud, but that isn’t true.

The Dead Sea mud can be found on the local side of the beach too. The only difference is that on the tourist beach, they have already dug it up and it’s easily accessible.

The positive to entering the tourist beach is that you’ll be free to swim in a bikini. However, if you are ok with swimming with a t-shirt on, and shorts for the ladies, the local beach is exactly the same.

I chose to swim at the local beach, and it was awesome. I even made some Jordanian friends, who drove me back to Amman later in the evening. It is a bit uncomfortable swimming in a shirt, but whatever.

You can spend the afternoon here slapping Dead Sea mud on your skin or floating in the dense, salty water. Whatever you do, just don’t put your face in the water.

The salt content is more than enough to burn your eyes and cause permanent damage. Avoid getting any of the water near your face to be safe.

Stay for sunset to top off an amazing day.

If you have a car and the budget, you can opt to stay at one of the resorts or hotels nearby.

If you don’t have a car or don’t want to stay at a resort, you should head back to Amman for the night.

Day 3: Drive to Petra

Petra will likely be the highlight of your 1 week in Jordan, no doubt. Getting to Petra by bus or car, should take a few hours in the morning.

You’ll need to get to the bus terminal early in the morning. The bus leaves around 7:00 AM, and is more or less on schedule. You will arrive in Petra after 3 hours.

Check the website for updated timetables here .

Arriving at Petra

If you have the Jordan Pass, it will be free, but you may want to purchase a ticket for the Petra by Night experience.

Is Petra by Night Worth it?

The show is only on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, so if you want to go plan your visit accordingly.

It involves watching a show of singing and music, while sitting on the floor in front of the Treasury.

Honestly, it seemed somewhat a tourist trap. But, is it a beautiful way to see the Treasury at night. If you have a tripod and are a photographer, you could get amazing photos of the candles and The Treasury here.

Price: 17 dinars (not included in the Jordan Pass)

A photogenic passageway through a canyon, that leads you from the entrance of Petra, to The Treasury. You will pass through it every time you enter and exit Petra.

Hike to the Tea Shop

For the first half day, I’d recommend doing a hike up to the viewing point of the Treasury. It’s an easy to moderate hike (I did it in a dress), and you will be rewarded by the cutest tea shop at the top!!

It’s a simple, Bedouin tent, run by a family. They offer teas, juices and a place to charge your electronics. It has the BEST view of the Treasury and you can take a nap with a bunch of cats.

This is also a popular photo spot. Wait until the second half of the afternoon for the best lighting, without any harsh shadows for the best photo.

Petra by Night

Depending which day you go, you may either do this on the first or second night of your stay in Petra, since they only have it 3 times a week.

Remember to come early, if you want a good photo. I would say even plan to be at the entrance walking to the Treasury 1 hour before it starts.

The walk takes 30 minutes, and you’ll want to get there before the crowds. You’ll need a tripod for best results. Also, bring a flashlight for the walk.

Day 4: Full Day in Petra

Morning at the treasury.

Entry into Petra begins from 6:00 AM, so you’ll want to wake up very early on this day. You want to beat the crowds and go straight to the Treasury for sunrise. This is when you will have it to yourself for the best photos.

Even if you don’t care about photography, you honestly need to see it in the stillness of morning to fully enjoy it. You’ll have it almost to yourself, minus other photographers and camels.

Hike to The Monastery

This is a 6 km (3.6 mile) roundtrip walk from The Treasury, and involves a steep climb up roughly 850 steps at the end. Which is why you’ll want to start the day early!

I found the hike to be very easy, and by starting early you can avoid the hottest part of the day for the ascent. The Monastery is definitely worth the short trek, and if you need to take breaks on the way, there are lots of gift shops and tea shops.

Once you arrive, you can spend an hour or so in this area exploring caves, view the “End of the World” or have a coffee break. On your way back, you can stop by all the other attractions along the trail.

The ones I think are worth seeing (in order from the hike back from The Monastery to The Treasury) are

• The Great Temple

2. The Royal Tombs

3. The Palace Tomb

4. The Urn Tomb

5. Nabatean Theatre

6. Renaissance Tomb

Day 5: Head to Wadi Rum

You can drive to Wadi Rum, or take a public bus which departs around 6:30 AM from Petra.

For the bus, check with your hotel, and make sure they book your seat for you at least a day before departure. It takes about 2 hours.

For your stay in Wadi Rum, you’ll want to camp in the desert overnight. There are several campsites to choose from, most of which will provide your sleeping arrangement, meals and help arrange your excursions into the desert.

I stayed at Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp , and can recommend them. They provided us with shisha and really good food every night and morning. The wifi was also really strong.

The Wadi Rum desert is an amazing place, where you don’t need to be doing something to enjoy it. I spent my first afternoon hiking and exploring the canyons and dunes near my camp.

Day 6: Full Day in Wadi Rum

You need at least one full day to explore the Wadi Rum desert. You can discuss with your accommodation what you’d like to see and they can organize everything for you. Things I recommend seeing and doing are:

Go on a Jeep Tour

This will be necessary to explore the far corners of the desert. Depending on what you want to see, this could take one hour or several.

Burdah Rock Bridge

You can reach this rock bridge on a Jeep Tour. You can climb up it, if you’re not afraid of heights. Bring proper shoes, the rock on the way up is.a bit slippery.

Alameleh Inscriptions

The historical significance of Wadi Rum can be understood by finding the many ancient inscriptions still found in the rock throughout the desert. They are hard to spot on your own, but your guide can definitely direct you to some.

Go for a Camel Ride

Riding a camel is a popular way to get around the desert, although a slow and bumpy one. Personally, I don’t like riding animals and prefer to admire them from the ground.

Desert Hike

You can opt to explore the desert on foot in some areas. There are canyons between deep red rock formations to walk through, or you can go up a sand dune to get better views of the desert from above.

This should probably be done with a group or guide, to avoid getting lost.

Watch the Sunset

There is nothing in the world like those Arabian desert sunsets. Be sure to stop whatever you’re doing to get to a viewing point, to catch the sunset every evening while in Wadi Rum. Never miss a sunset here!

Day 7: Head Back to Amman

On your last day in Jordan, head back to Amman by car or bus.

You will have to take a bus from Wadi Rum to Petra, and catch the afternoon JETT bus back to Amman. You can ask your campsite staff to help you book your seat on the bus.

If you have a car, you can make a few last minute stops on the way back. One place that I didn’t visit, but was recommended, was Mount Nebo.

If you Have More Than 1 Week in Jordan

Head to Aqaba in the very south of Jordan and spend the rest of your trip relaxing by the Red Sea.

Here you can snorkel, sun bath and even get scuba diving certification.

How to Save Money

Jordan is not exactly a budget destination. The Jordanian dinar currently ranks as the 4th highest in value in the world.

However, that’s not to say it’s a trip that has to break the bank. Here are ways to save money during your 1 week in Jordan.

Use the Jordan Pass

This is likely the most important tip for saving money. No matter the length of your trip, this pass will save you a ton.

It pays for itself instantly by including your entry fee into the country and entry into Petra. Everything else you use it on, will be money saved.

Take the Bus

If you are a solo traveler, it may not be cost effective to rent a car for yourself. Even with only 1 week in Jordan, you can see the country by bus, even if it’s a bit slower.

Beside Wadi Mujib and Mount Nebo, everything included in this itinerary can be visited without a car or tour.

For getting from Amman to Petra, there is the JETT Tourist Bus .

From Petra to Wadi Rum, there is a public bus that runs once a day. Check with your accommodation to book a seat on the bus in advanced.

The bus from Petra to Wadi Rum usually leaves at 7 AM, but you should check with your hotel for current timetables.

The buses are clean, very safe, and you will be riding with mostly other tourists.

It’s worth noting, that hitchhiking, in Jordan is also very safe and easy. However, if you only have 1 week in Jordan, I would feel uneasy recommending that you succumb your limited time to the unpredictable timetable you’d create for yourself, by relying on hitchhiking.

Use Uber instead of Taxi

In Amman, I took a taxi once. Of course, it was the only time I was scammed and ripped off.

In short, just use Uber. The price is designated by the app, and it’s just the most hassle free way to get around the city.

Eat Falafel

The cost of food in Jordan can quickly add up. I couldn’t find a place open on a Friday, during prayer time, so I stopped by the Hyatt. It ended up being $46 for an appetizer platter.

The cheapest food in Jordan, is definitely falafel closely followed by shawarma.

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol comes at a premium price here. Go easy on the beers, to avoid overpaying. If you are only spending 1 week in Jordan, I think you can live without it altogether.

Swim at the Local Beach es

Unless you really can’t stand the idea of swimming with clothes on, the local beach is the better option all around. Why travel to be enclosed in a tourist bubble AND pay an arm and leg for it?

Safety in Jordan

I spent far more than 1 week in Jordan, and rarely encountered any major unsafe situations.

As a solo female traveler, I can confidently report back that Jordan was by far one of the safest countries I’ve been to. There was police presence everywhere, and everything seemed very orderly.

As for Jordanian people, they are very friendly, but also tend to keep more to themselves, except in Amman. In Amman, I found people to be really open and easy to become friends with.

The only time I felt a little on edge, was in Petra, with the many buskers trying to offer or sell you things.

And that wraps up my guide on how to spend 1 week in Jordan, for solo female travelers. Have you been to Jordan? What did you love or hate?

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December 11, 2020 at 3:37 pm

Great tips and itinerary to Jordan. So much interesting information. I would love to see Petra at night and swim in the Black Sea.

December 18, 2020 at 1:51 pm

You can’t miss Petra, for sure!

December 12, 2020 at 4:43 pm

Thank you so much for this article, I’ve resisted booking this for a while now as I wasn’t sure it would be ok as a solo trip. Appreciate the tips, its so easy to forget how sensitive matters are in other countries. A friend of mine upset one of her hosts in Israel by getting into a discussions the political issues. Your pictures are gorgeous btw

December 18, 2020 at 1:54 pm

Oh wow, yes, it’s such a sensitive topic best to avoid it when possible. But otherwise it’s a totally safe country to travel solo I hope you will get to visit it soon!

September 7, 2023 at 4:46 pm

Thank you for a guide full of helpful tips. I have been looking at a trip here for some time and this was one of the best guides I have come across for practical pointers. Thank you

September 9, 2023 at 5:53 am

You are welcome! I hope you have a great time in Jordan.

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Jordan Tours & Vacations

Modern cities filled with worldly citizens, mountainous regions dotted with small villages, and deserts inhabited by the nomadic Bedouin - Jordan has all this diversity and more.

With the cosmopolitan cafes of Amman , the peace of hilltop Dana and the historic treasures of Madaba, you may come to Jordan to see the ruins of   Petra , but you’ll leave having encountered so much more.

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Jordan at a glance, capital city.

Amman (population 960,000)

6.5 million

(GMT+02:00) Amman

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type B (American 3-pin) Type C (European 2-pin) Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin) Type J (Swiss 3-pin)

Learn more about Jordan

Culture and customs.

As a Muslim country, Jordan’s culture is quite conservative, although not as conservative as some other Middle Eastern countries. Western influences (particularly in Amman and other large cities) have infiltrated Jordanian society so Jordan now possesses a mix of Arabian customs amid modern ways of life. Due to immigration, Jordan now has a significant Palestinian and Iraqi population, adding to the cultural diversity of the country.

Despite the outside influences, Islamic traditions are strong in Jordan with spectacular mosques signaling the call to prayer five times a day, Ramadan being observed each year and some segregation of the sexes occurring. 

The desert-dwelling Bedouin have a distinct culture of their own, drawing on traditions that have been passed down for centuries. Living a largely nomadic lifestyle, the Bedouin rely on the herding of animals and the creation of handicrafts in the absence of a fertile environment to farm. With a strong musical heritage, traditional instruments are played and time-honored traditions are continued. 

Hospitality is a crucial element of Jordanian culture. Most visitors will be humbled by the kindness, sincerity and genuine care showed by Jordanians. Being welcomed into peoples’ homes is common, and can probably be attributed to the custom of welcoming strangers and sharing food when traveling in the unforgiving desert.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world.

Featuring typical Middle Eastern ingredients like lamb, chickpeas, garlic and a range of aromatic herbs and spices, Jordanian cuisine is delicious.

Things to try in Jordan

Like many other Middle Eastern countries, a plate of shared breads and dips is a great way to begin a feast.

This traditional Bedouin dish of lamb and yogurt is usually served with rice and bread. This is the national dish of Jordan, so definitely try it before you leave.

These small, sweet pastries made with honey and nuts will have you going back for more.

The coffee in Jordan is strong. Often spiced with a hint of cardamom, coffee is strongly linked to the famed Jordanian hospitality, so drink up – it would be rude not to!

Geography and environment

Jordan is made up of a staggeringly diverse range of natural environments. From stark deserts to towering mountains, fertile wetlands, coastal reefs and urban cities, journeying through Jordan provides changing scenery and varying conditions. 

Sharing borders with Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Syria and Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Jordan mixes modern architecture with heritage-filled buildings, well-manicured streets with historic alleyways and impressive mansions with simple homes. 

Modern, developed cities like Amman and Aqaba feature unique architecture, spectacular mosques, five-star hotels and resorts. Small villages with rustic housing populate the less-built-up rural areas and Bedouin tents made of goat hair can be found in desert areas.

History and government

Early history.

The country now known as Jordan was originally inhabited by the Nabataeans thousands of years ago. Over the centuries, Jordan has been a place conquered and inhabited by many different people including the Romans, Greeks, Assyrians, Ottoman Turks, Egyptians and Mamluks (people of Kurdish origins). All these influences can still be seen today in Jordan's ancient ruins, architecture, crafts and arts. Many battles were fought in Ancient Jordan, including the Christian crusaders who clashed with Islamic Forces in Jordan during the 11th and 12th centuries. The first Muslim Dynasty began with the Umayyad Empire in 661.

Recent history

In 1950, Jordan was renamed the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and in 1951, King Abdullah I was assassinated while visiting a mosque. His eldest son became king but was removed from his duties in 1952 due to mental illness. In 1953, his teenage son Hussein Ibn Talal became king, and continued to rule for over 40 years. In the 1960s, Jordan saw many immigrants arrive and settle – mainly Palestinians escaping the conflict in their homeland.

In 1999, King Abdullah II succeeded his father King Hussein and continues to rule Jordan now. His reign has been characterized by liberal policies, economic reforms and technological advances. His wife, Queen Rania of Jordan, has a visible public profile, is active in many social causes and is regarded internationally as a highly influential woman.

Top 10 ways to experience Jordan

1. locate a lost city.

Spend a day exploring the astonishing lost city of Petra. Discover temples, tombs, a monastery and an amphitheater in this fascinating, world-renowned archaeological site.

2. Take a dip

Dive into the Dead Sea and relax in the famous waters thought to have therapeutic properties. The high salinity makes floating effortless so it’s easy to lie back and enjoy the view. This experience is a must-do for any visitor to Jordan.

3. Kick back in a cafe

The cafes of Amman are the perfect place to get acquainted with modern Jordan. From elegant, urban cafes serving international fare to earthy, family-run cafes offering traditional food and coffee, see both sides of modern Jordan when you eat.

4. Delve into the desert

Travel across hot, desert sands and spend the night camping under the stars with Bedouin hosts. Stargazing, eating traditional food and learning about the Bedouin way of life is an authentic experience to remember.

5. Admire ancient art

The city of Madaba is known for its amazing collection of ancient mosaics. Take a stroll around the city to scout out these handcrafted pieces of the past that are scattered throughout Madaba’s churches, museums and homes.

6. View an icon

Behold the sight of the legendary Mt Nebo. A revered holy site, Mt Nebo is home to the ruins of a church and monastery, and is an interesting place for believers and non-believers alike.

7. Meet Mother Nature

A hike through the changing landscapes of the Dana Nature Reserve offers wildlife encounters, quaint villages and majestic mountain views. Get back to nature and see Jordan’s natural treasures here.

8. Relax in a resort

See a different side of Jordan in the laidback resort town of Aqaba. Chill out on the beach, feast on fresh seafood, soak up the sunshine and enjoy the change of pace in this piece of coastal bliss.

9. Uncover a bit of history

Explore the fortified town and castle of Karak to gain insight into the fascinating history of this region. Walk through a network of tunnels and walkways and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

10. Discover Roman ruins

Travel to Jerash to see some of the biggest and most preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy. Baths, theatres, temples and forums feature within the colonnaded streets and still-standing city walls.

From atmospheric souqs to modern malls and designer boutiques, Jordan has a shopping experience to suit everyone. While not particularly cheap, the quality is generally excellent and the service friendly.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.   T he United States   and   Canada  generally have strict customs laws.

Things to buy in Jordan

1. Traditional handicrafts

Mosaics, ceramics, rugs and carpets can be found everywhere in Jordan, but the variety and quality found in Madaba is a standout.

2. Bedouin crafts

Silver jewelry and embroidered scarves make great souvenirs and can be purchased from souqs and independent vendors around Jordan.

3. Gold jewelry

Traditional souvenirs and stunning gold jewelry can be found in the souqs of downtown Amman.

Festivals and events in Jordan

Ramadan and eid.

During the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is observed by most in Jordan and is thought to be a time of spiritual rejuvenation. For this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset - refraining from eating and drinking during daylight hours. Eid marks the end of fasting with three days of feasting and celebration.

Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts

See the best of local and international performing arts with theatre, music, poetry and dance taking over the ancient Roman city of Jerash, much to the delight of locals and visitors alike.

Top places to visit in Jordan

If you think you’ve been to Rome and seen some impressive ruins, you’ll be amazed by the sights at the ancient city of Jerash. One of the biggest and most well-preserved ancient Roman cities in the world, it has a striking collection of archways and theatres, baths, public buildings and colonnaded streets.

Explore the ruins of Jerash on our 9 day Cycle Jordan: Petra & Wadi Rum tour .

This seaside town is the perfect place to kick back and relax by the hotel pool or at the beach. Located on the tip of the Red Sea, there are untouched coral reefs not far from the shore ready to be explored.

Soak up the sun on our 22 day Egypt, Jordan, Isreal & the Palestinian Territories tour , embrace the beach vibes on our 15 day Discover Egypt & Jordan tour or snorkel coral reefs on our 19 day Explore Egypt & Jordan adventure .

3. Wadi Rum

When you first enter Wadi Rum you may feel as though you’ve been transported to Mars. The red desert landscape is peppered with towering rock formations as far as the eye can see. Don’t miss an opportunity to mingle with the nomadic Bedouin people and perhaps even spend the night in one of their Desert Camps.

Visit the Wadi Rum Desert on our 9 day Jordan & Egypt Express tour or on our 8 day Explore Jordan adventure .

The ancient city of Petra was crowned one of the Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, and once you visit, it’s not hard to see why. Packed with history and culture, a visit to this UNESCO world heritage site is a must.

Admire the beauty of Petra on our 8 day Jordan Discovery tour .

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider. Tie another trip into your holiday, or see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around Jordan. The options below may be of interest:

• Tours from Amman
• Amman to Madaba
• Cairo to Madaba
• Tours to Madaba

Or maybe you're thinking about a trip to Jordan but still browsing other destinations? Check out our tours to neighbouring locations:

Further reading

Jordan travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa for Jordan?

Visas are required by all visitors entering Jordan.

Single entry visas valid for 14 days and can be obtained by most nationalities on arrival at the airport in Amman or at the Jordanian border for approximately JOD40.

It can be significantly more expensive to acquire your visa from the embassy in your home country.

If you require a stay longer than 14 days, visas obtained from the embassy in your home country will be valid for two months.

When is the best time to visit Jordan?

The weather in Jordan can get quite extreme. Overall, it tends to be hot during the day and cold at night (in desert areas, expect it to be extremely hot during the day and freezing at night). Yet during winter it can get bitterly cold, with snowfall occurring in some parts of the country.

Traveling during the summer months (June, July and August) can be challenging for those not accustomed to the heat, so visiting Jordan during spring and autumn is recommended for those who wish to escape the hotter temperatures. 

Is tipping customary in Jordan?

Tipping is up to the individual in Jordan. Hotels and up-market restaurants typically add a surcharge that is included in bills, which is usually 10%. Rounding up bills and leaving spare change is a good idea when dining in smaller restaurants and when using taxis.

What is the internet access like in Jordan?

Internet access is growing rapidly in Jordan. Internet can usually be accessed from hotels and internet cafes in major cities. Expect little to no access in small towns, villages and other rural areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Jordan?

Cell phone coverage is good in Jordan’s major cities and built-up areas like Amman and Aqaba. Expect limited to no phone coverage in more isolated areas like the desert. Ensure you have global roaming activated on your phone before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Jordan?

Western-style toilets are common in modern hotels, malls and at popular tourist areas. Squat toilets are the standard throughout the rest of the country. Sometimes, you may need to pay and bring your own toilet paper when visiting public rest rooms.

What will it cost for a…?

Street snack = 3 JOD Can of soft drink = 1 JOD Dinner at a restaurant = 10 JOD Embroidered shawl = 20-30 JOD

Can I drink the water in Jordan?

Drinking water from taps in Jordan can be safe, depending on where you are. It's considered safe to drink water from modern hotels that have filtered water but perhaps not so from smaller establishments and in rural areas. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Peel fruit before eating and avoid ice in drinks.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Jordan?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores in Jordan. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Jordan?

ATMs are common in Jordan’s main cities so finding one won't be a problem. Rural and remote areas typically will have less ATMs so be sure to carry enough cash for purchases when away from the city.

What public holidays are celebrated in Jordan?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 25 May: Independence Day
• 25 Jun: The End of Ramadan
• 26 Jun: The End of Ramadan
• 27 Jun: The End of Ramadan
• 31 Aug: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 1 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 2 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 3 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 4 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 21 Sep: Islamic New Year
• 30 Nov: The Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

Please note, Jordan public holidays may vary.

Is Jordan LGBTQIA+ friendly?

As a Muslim country, Jordan’s culture is quite conservative, although not as conservative as some other Middle Eastern countries. Homosexuality has been decriminalized in Jordan since 1951, and while Jordanians who identify as having an LGBTQIA+ identity will not be criminalized, many people continue to hide their sexuality or identity from their families, and there is still a deep social stigma. As long as LGBTQIA+ travelers display some discretion and respect for local culture, particularly when visiting places outside of the major cities and tourist areas, they will have no problem visiting Jordan. 

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What's the transport like in Jordan?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Jordan, you may find yourself traveling by 4x4.

Head out for a day of dune-bashing in a 4x4. Scale the towering desert dunes and take in the sweeping views. A fun way to explore remote parts of Jordan .

What's the accommodation like in Jordan?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Jordan you may find yourself staying in a desert camp.

Be welcomed by Bedouin for a night of camping under the stars. Enjoy traditional food and music then fall asleep in the supreme silence of the desert.

What to wear in Jordan?

Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country and conservative clothing is the norm for all genders. You don't need to cover yourself from head to toe, but you should wear clothing that covers your chest, shoulders and legs from the knee up. Honoring the local dress code shows respect for the local culture and customs.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

I've been on over 20 solo trips. Here are the 9 things I wish I knew before I took my first one.

Posted: May 16, 2023 | Last updated: October 16, 2023

• I've traveled to more than 40 countries and have visited over 20 of them by myself .
• Before my trips, I always research the destination along with its customs, languages, and laws. 
• Solo travel can feel lonely at moments, but the lifestyle can also be rewarding and addicting.

After visiting over 40 countries and experiencing more than half of them alone, I've learned a thing or two about solo travel. 

By preparing correctly and having the right mindset on the ground, I'm almost always guaranteed to have an adventure — whether I'm hiking Machu Picchu in Peru or attending a festival in Bhutan.

Here's what I wish I knew about traveling alone before my first solo trip.

Traveling alone for the first time can feel intimidating and overwhelming, but that shouldn't stop you.

I took my first solo trip while studying abroad in college. Fueled by my passion for hiking , I wanted to visit the Alps, but none of my classmates wanted to join me. I knew I needed to get to the mountain range no matter what it took, even if it meant going alone.

Despite the fact that my trip was only one week, going to a different country where I didn't speak the local language was intimidating — especially when people told me stories about why they were too scared to travel alone.

Ultimately, I asked myself, "Why not?" 

I knew how to navigate an airport, had enough money to get through the week , and had already booked my hostel.

As soon as I arrived, everything went smoothly. I met people at my hostel and in town and hiked among some of the most beautiful mountains and glaciers I've ever seen. It was amazing, and I got to visit a bucket-list destination.

To ensure smooth logistics on the ground, you have to do in-depth destination research ahead of departure.

If I'm traveling to a different country alone, I always do extensive research ahead of time.

Each destination has different things to watch out for, customs to acknowledge and respect, ways to dress, and methods of getting around. It's helpful to be informed about the environment and culture you're walking into ahead of time. 

Some countries have customs and laws that are very different than the ones in my home country. I like knowing about them ahead of time so I don't unintentionally break a rule or offend someone.

Planning out the details of my trip and properly preparing reduces the chance of mix-ups and problems on the ground.

Even though you're starting the trip solo, you probably won't be alone the entire time.

Usually, someone asks if I'm traveling solo when I'm boarding buses or checking into my accommodations.

I technically am, as I left my home country and hopped on a plane by myself. But I often meet so many people along the way that don't feel like I'm traveling alone.

If I stay in hostels , homestays, or social Airbnbs, I tend to have a very easy time meeting other travelers. I've gone backpacking through a new country with friends I met on my trip, and before I knew it, we all started to feel like a little family.

The same goes for meeting locals, as many have shown me around a destination and even invited me to stay with their families to learn about their culture.

Exploring by yourself can be lonely, and the friendships you make along the way may not always last.

I've clicked with so many people I've met on my travels, and during the trip, it feels like we'll be friends forever. Sometimes, we even make plans to meet up in a few months. 

But it takes time to develop strong, lasting bonds. A lot of the relationships I make on trips seem to expire after I get on my return flight.

We separate, and our lives go different ways. They usually end up being a memory (or another person I follow on social media ). The friendships are incredible, but frequently moving on after meeting people you connect with gets lonely after a while.

It's also hard missing out on big activities and events with friends and family at home. Even when I'm exploring an amazing place, I still worry about missing out.

The freedom to do whatever you want whenever you want is a luxury.

One of the biggest advantages of solo travel is the freedom to do whatever I want, whenever I want. 

I've fallen in love with a town and ended up staying twice as long as I initially planned. I've gone on long, grueling solo hikes. I've also skipped dinner out to have a lazy night in. And I never have to feel bad about how these actions impact a travel companion.

Exploring with other people is fun and offers many amazing opportunities, but I love traveling on my own schedule and not having to accommodate anyone else .

You need to learn to adapt and understand that there will be moments of discomfort on solo trips.

Flexibility and adaptability are essential while traveling, especially if you're doing it alone. You never know what opportunities may come up — maybe you'll end up changing your weekend plans to attend a fun event that a local told you about.

Also, not everything is comfortable when you're traveling on a budget. You may end up sleeping in some below-average accommodations and taking long, bumpy bus rides .

Even if you're not on a budget, you may eat foods you're not used to in order to fully experience a different culture.

Exploring a place where you don't speak the local language and immersing yourself in a different way of life can be hard, especially without a familiar person by your side.

Being in a new place is thrilling, but you should fight the urge to fill your schedule.

I've made the mistake of jam-packing my schedule from sunrise to midnight a handful of times. It's exhausting, especially if I'm traveling between destinations that are far apart and require a lot of time in transit.

It's not fun to fill your vacation with car rides , bus rides, and frequent flights. So when I'm limited on time, I choose a few things to do that are close to each other and fully explore those places. 

Then, I can really experience a place, meet the locals, and relax — the last of which is a priority when I'm staying in beautiful destinations.

Trust your gut and always be aware of your surroundings.

Unfortunate incidents can happen anywhere, so I do my best to stay vigilant of my surroundings. I keep an eye on my bag and only bring as much money as I need for the day, especially if I'm in a busy area.

Someone once stole my phone and some cash out of my little crossbody bag when I wasn't paying attention. It was inconvenient and frustrating, but it happens to even the most seasoned travelers.

I also always trust my gut when I'm traveling, and usually, things feel slightly off right before something bad happens. If I get that sense, I leave and go somewhere else. It's best to get out of the situation as soon as possible.

Traveling solo can be addicting, and you may even come to prefer it to taking trips with others.

After nervously preparing for my first solo adventure to the Alps back in 2014, I never thought I'd travel alone as much as I do now.

In fact, I've spent more time traveling solo than I have traveling with other people. It's hard to find friends who are compatible travel partners and also have the same time off. 

But that hasn't held me back. The lifestyle is addicting. The freedom, the people I meet, and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunities leave me craving more.

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Intrepid Launches Women-Led Tours In Saudi Arabia

Jesse Chase-Lubitz , Skift

April 4th, 2024 at 12:50 PM EDT

Intrepid’s new women-led tours in Saudi Arabia are about “focusing on the hosts, not just the travelers.”

Jesse Chase-Lubitz

Intrepid Travel has announced a women’s-only tour in Saudi Arabia — led by women, for women. 

The tour represents an effort to sidestep the luxury-focused travel industry in the country while giving travelers a more authentic experience and supporting the booming female labor force.

The launch follows several years of progress for Saudi women, who gained the right to drive in 2018 and to be tour guides in 2019. As the country seeks to become a leading travel destination, the percentage of women who make up the tourism workforce has skyrocketed to 45%.

“This shift had one positive effect, which is that it gave more rights to women,” said Zina Bencheikh, the managing director of EMEA for Intrepid Travel. “[This tour] effectively means that we can speak to women and we can meet women who own businesses, women guides, women who run restaurants.”

The 12-day adventure will bring travelers to female-owned establishments. “I think the beauty of traveling this way is to focus on the hosts, not just the travelers,” said Bencheikh.

Going Local, Not Luxury

The tour involves a family-owned citrus farm, rock formations, and giant tombs. Travelers will visit the holy site Medina, take a tour of Al-Balad in Jeddah with Saudi’s first female guide, and go on a cruise in the Red Sea.

Intrepid partnered with a local agent, Sara Omar, to design the trip. Omar has previously focused on planning trips for Saudi women to experience other parts of the world. Now, she’s helping Intrepid bring the world to Saudi women. 

“A lot of people think Saudi women are unable to do anything, that we’re not educated, that we don’t work. Meeting the locals is the best way to understand what the lifestyle is really like,” Omar said, according to Intrepid’s press release. 

The tour also taps into something that has been difficult for tour operators to breach in Saudi Arabia – local engagement. While the country has marketed themselves as a luxury destination, many travelers want a more authentic experience.

“I think the country has positioned their tourism in one part of the travel industry, which is that kind of more mainstream luxurious experience,” said Bencheikh. “But in my opinion, they are kind of missing the point. In all the reports we see that what people want is interaction with the local people.”

The Saudi tour is the latest in a series of women-led tours. Others include tours to India, Nepal, Morocco, Jordan and Pakistan, all of which have grown in popularity since their inception. 

These tours align with the travel experiences trends Intrepid is seeing, which show that female travelers above 50 are increasingly looking for solo meaningful experiences in lesser visited countries. 

Intrepid’s women-led trekking tour in Morocco launched in 2018 and now has 20 departures per year. “If you think about the economic impact for those women,” said Bencheikh. “Some of them never worked before and now they have a job that is paid for by doing something they enjoy.”

Bencheikh said that Intrepid is scoping for locations for new tours, and may have its eyes on Asia next. 

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Tags: intrepid travel , saudi arabia , Travel Experiences , women travelers

Photo credit: Sara Omar has helped Intrepid Travel design the women-led trip through Saudi Arabia Intrepid Travel

I've traveled to 9 out of 10 countries in Southeast Asia. Here are the 5 biggest mistakes I made along the way.

• I've traveled solo to nine countries in Southeast Asia.
• I've made many mistakes, from traveling during monsoon season to forgetting to bring enough cash.
• Travelers should make sure they plan ahead and research each country's culture.

Over the last two years, my journey as a travel enthusiast and Business Insider's travel reporter in Singapore has brought me to almost every country in Southeast Asia.

In total, there are 10 countries in Southeast Asia , and I've traveled to nine of them — Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, and Brunei. Myanmar remains the only country in the region I have not visited, and while I am keen to explore it, I have held off on visiting because of the country's ongoing civil war.

I've watched the sun rise in Angkor Wat in Cambodia and cared for elephants in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I've explored the Bornean jungle in Brunei and crawled the Cu Chi Tunnels in southern Vietnam.

But it hasn't always been easy. I've made several mistakes traveling across the region , especially as a solo traveler. Here are five mistakes I made and how to avoid them.

1. Going during monsoon season and not planning for the weather.

In July, I traveled to Thailand on a reporting trip to cover the budding cannabis industry . There, I was met with heavy rain nearly every day. In Bangkok, I was staying in a hostel in Chakkrawat , a district with narrow, meandering streets, which made it difficult to walk anywhere in the pouring rain.

I didn't plan for the weather, so I didn't have an umbrella or poncho with me and had to rush to get one at the last minute. I also had a packed itinerary with a lot of travel between meetings, which was a hassle in the constant downpour.

Before traveling to Southeast Asia, make sure to avoid two seasons — the monsoon season, which often comes with strong typhoons in countries like the Philippines, and the burning season, where farmers burn land for fertile soil. This is a common occurrence in countries like Laos, Thailand, and the island of Borneo, which is shared between Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

When I traveled to Laos in April last year during the burning season , most of my plans — including a hot air balloon ride — were canceled because of the thick smog. I also didn't have an N95 mask with me, and I ended up with a sore throat.

If you do plan to come during these seasons, make sure to pack accordingly and plan a flexible schedule.

2. Traveling during Ramadan and expecting the same practices everywhere.

Having grown up in Singapore, I'm familiar with the practices during Ramadan , the holy month for Muslims, where they fast for most of the day. I studied Malay for seven years, and in school, I often fasted with my Muslim classmates and ate only in private.

Still, in many cities in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia , non-Muslims are free to dine in public, so long as they do so respectfully. But on my trip to Brunei in April — at the height of the burning season and in the middle of Ramadan — there were more practices I needed to observe.

Most restaurants were closed, and diners weren't allowed to eat there even if they were open — only take-out was allowed. Eating in public was a major faux pas even for non-Muslims, and if you want to drink some water, you can only do so when nobody is around.

It wasn't easy, especially as Brunei was sweltering at 100 degrees Fahrenheit on some days. I made do by returning to the hotel for lunch and grabbing a big dinner with the locals at the night market after they had broken their fast.

3. Not packing enough modest outfits when visiting temples and mosques.

Southeast Asia is pretty liberal, and you can wear whatever you want in many places. In popular destinations like Phuket, Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia, lots of tourists walk around in bikini tops and shorts, and locals mostly tolerate it.

But there are certain places you do need to cover up, like places of worship, which include temples and mosques. When I visited Angkor Wat — the famed temple complex in Cambodia — in February last year, I found some tourists being told off by the local tour guides for wearing shorts and tank tops — "Tomb Raider" style.

I've learned to err on the right side of caution and bring a sarong wherever I go. It's an easy way to cover up and make an outfit more modest when you need to.

4. Forgetting to pack medication, especially when I plan to eat street food.

Southeast Asia has some of the world's most flavorful food. In every country, you can find food that is cheap and delicious, and that includes Singapore , the world's most expensive city. In countries like Malaysia and Vietnam, street food dishes can cost as little as a dollar.

I eat mostly street food when I travel in Southeast Asia, so medicine for tummy-related illnesses is a must. I've only gotten sick twice from eating street food — and it was the same dish both times— and unfortunately, those were the few times I didn't have medicine with me.

I'm a pretty adventurous eater. I've eaten everything from pufferfish stew to frog porridge and dishes made with intestines off the street. I've learned to wash the utensils provided before digging in and make sure the food is cooked to order and heated up before being served.

5. Relying on my card and not bringing enough cash with me.

In Singapore, I don't really use cash and often use Apple Pay, mobile payments, and cards. But I've found that many stores in other countries in Southeast Asia only accept cash.

For example, on my third trip to Vietnam, I spent an hour trying to make payment via bank transfer after the staff at a luxury perfume shop — which was selling items priced upwards of $200 — informed me at the last minute that they didn't accept card or contactless payment.

I've also found the majority of street vendors in the region only accept mobile payment — which is limited to local banks — or cash. I've learned to change a considerable amount of money before leaving the airport and keep whatever I didn't use for my next trip.

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Egypt, Jordan and Israel Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

100 egypt, jordan and israel tours for singles / solo travelers with 264 reviews.

• Christmas & New Year

Egypt, Jordan & Israel - 14 days

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Classical Jerusalem, Jordan and Cairo

Best of Holy Land Israel & Jordan and Egypt Tour with Nile Cruise - 17 Days

Excellent tour of the Holy Land

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Jordan and Egypt on a Budget Tour

I suggest for a 1-night felucca; inclusion of Valley of The Kings (we had Viator Valley of the Kings for $30.00 plus $12.00 entrance fees); and 1-day tour to Alexandria for $57.00 plus $20.00 entrance fees to the Catacombs and Library).The value added for these to the itinerary is all worth saving us the trouble of looking for option. Overall I am very pleased with our guide Super Mo in Egypt who was very knowledgeable and caring to us. As for Jordan the Bedouin campsite could offer better options for July travelers who can opt to pay a little more for air conditions in rooms. More power to you Fez Travel. Maria

Israel, Jordan and Cairo ( 15 days )

Middle East Voyages: Turkey, Egypt, Jordan & Israel - 14 days

Highlights of the Holy Land Israel & Jordan & Cairo Tour - 13 Days

Arrival at Tel Aviv was not as expected. I have to wait more than 30 min for the guide showing my name. They didn´t answer phne, but after 35 min I received a call. Transfer to Jordan and Egypt borders was well organized.

Israel, Jordan and Egypt 10 days

My guide in Egypt Kimo Azuvietsh and driver Fayez were excellent. Their professionalism and regard for human decency, was beyond my expectation. My driver and Tour guide acted in just about every conceivable way to accommodate me during the tour. For example: when my hotel room water and Air Conditioner was not working. They reiterated to the hotel officials the importance, of getting these issues addressed in a timely manner or to moved Mr. Wess as previously requested to another room in their native language.

Israel, Jordan and Egypt with Nile Cruise 12 days

This tour was fantastic and made all the better by the folks that experienced it with me! Newfound friends from around the world.

Pyramids, Petra, Promised Land - 19 Days

Would recommend this tour to anyone. We felt safe the whole time and had a blast!

Israel, Jordan, Egypt & Red Sea

Pyramids, Petra, Promised Land with Cruise - 19 days

One of the best tour groups I have ever booked. I would highly recommend them for any future travel.

Holyland Israel & Jordan & Cairo - 14 Days

Our guide Gadi managed our large group really well in Israel. It would be a lot smoother if we only had 1-2 hotels to pickup and drop off at. 4-5 hotels spread out wasted time in traffic. Gadi had deep and excellent knowledge and a treasured well used Bible to share and his Jewish perspective on the “must see” Jesus locations kept me thinking about how the Pharisees and Sadducee’s viewed Jesus. We needed another hour to see Petra so please try to get the Jordanian tour guide to shorten the much stop. Our scheduled hotel was overbooked and an alternate was sourced but that should have been done during the day while we were independently touring Petra. There was confusion at the airport Jordan to Egypt about the visas we feel this could have been handled better. Egypt was frenetic for sure. Again big distances between Hotels should have been avoided. Gigi was lovely very informative especially at he museum. Loved the pyramids and sphinx.

2 Weeks Customized Private Egypt Jordan Israel Tours

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

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Dream of Middle East

What people love about egypt, jordan and israel solo tours.

My wife and I went on a 17-day tour of Israel, Jordan, and Egypt. The tour was well orchestrated. All the details of getting into and out of countries were handled professionally and with little cause of concern to us. Hand-offs between countries went well. We were guided by knowledgable people who had our best interests at heart (with possibly one exception).The only real complaint I have is that TourRadar turned out to be more of a facilitator than a tour agency with its own guides. I was confused when we got to Israel and found that neither TourRadar nor Click Tours (which answered my online questions) was the agency actually leading the tours. Not knowing that we would be connecting with Consolidated Tour Operators (CTO) led to some initial confusion in the Tel Aviv airport. Expecting to be linked up with Click Tours and knowing nothing about CTO, we missed connecting with the airport facilitator in Tel Aviv for nearly an hour while each of tried to find the other. If I had been told to look for a CTO representative, our stressful introduction to the tour would have gone much more smoothly. In Israel and Jordan, CTO handled our tour. In Egypt, the agency was Sylvia. I had expected to be part of a group that held together for the entire 17 days, but that wasn't the case. Groups formed and disbanded based on what individuals planned to visit. In Israel there were 11 of us, and we bonded quickly. In Jordan I was surprised that our group dwindled to five. And in Egypt there was only my wife and me. That left us vulnerable in Egypt to the care of our guide, who, because there was just the two of us, managed to fleece us of $150. I would never have signed up with TourRadar if I had understood that my wife and I would be left alone at one point without the safety of a group and unprepared to deal with a guide we didn't fully trust.

havent forgotten the experiences. sleeping on a faloujah along the river nile and under the stars in the jordanian desert in the wadi run, its once in a lifetime experience, what wonderful memories, to impart to the younger kins. kudos to tour radar

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