How to Plan a Solo Trip to Jordan and See Petra Safely on a Budget
You can safely visit Jordan solo for $40-60 per day by staying in hostels, using local transport, and booking Petra tickets in advance. Jordan is one of the safest Middle Eastern countries for solo travelers, especially women.
- Book your flight to Amman. Fly into Queen Alia International Airport (AMM). Book 6-8 weeks ahead for best prices. Budget airlines like Wizz Air and Ryanair serve Amman from Europe.
- Get your visa sorted. Buy Jordan Pass online ($70-80) - includes visa fee and Petra entrance. If staying 3+ nights, this saves money over separate visa ($40) plus Petra ticket ($56).
- Plan your route: Amman → Petra → Wadi Rum. Spend 1-2 days in Amman, 2 days in Petra/Wadi Musa, 1-2 days in Wadi Rum. Use JETT bus company for safe, reliable transport between cities.
- Book accommodation in advance. Stay at Talbot House or Jordan Tower Hotel in Amman ($15-25/night). In Wadi Musa, book Petra Moon Hotel or similar ($20-30/night). All have good solo traveler reviews.
- Download offline maps and safety apps. Download Maps.me for offline navigation. Save Jordan tourism police number: 911. Share your itinerary with someone at home.
- Visit Petra early morning. Enter at 6am when gates open. Walk the main trail to Treasury first (1.5 hours), then explore. Bring 3 liters of water - you'll walk 8-12km total.
- Connect with other travelers. Join hostel common areas and day tours to Wadi Rum. Many solo travelers do the same route, easy to find travel companions for safety.
- Is Jordan safe for solo female travelers?
- Yes, Jordan is considered the safest Middle East country for solo women. Dress modestly, stay in tourist areas after dark, and use reputable transport. Harassment is rare but can happen - firm 'la shukran' (no thank you) works.
- Can I do Petra in one day?
- Yes, but it's rushed. You need 6-8 hours to see the main sites properly. Start at 6am, see Treasury, Royal Tombs, and Monastery. Wear good shoes - it's 12km+ of walking on uneven stone.
- What's the cheapest way to get to Petra from Amman?
- JETT bus costs 11 JOD ($15) and takes 4 hours. Runs twice daily. Much cheaper than private taxi ($80-100) and safer than local buses. Book seats in advance online.
- Do I need a tour guide for Petra?
- No, Petra is well-signposted and safe to explore alone. Download a map app or buy the official guidebook ($5) at entrance. Local Bedouin guides offer services for $20-30 if you want historical context.