Planning a Family Trip to Jordan: The Petra Itinerary

Focus your 7-day itinerary on Amman, the Dana Biosphere Reserve, Petra, and Wadi Rum to keep travel times under 3 hours per day. Prioritize booking a private driver or renting a car to maintain flexibility for snack breaks and nap times with children.

  1. Secure the Jordan Pass. Purchase the Jordan Pass online before you fly. It covers your visa fee and entry to Petra and other sites. It pays for itself if you visit at least three major attractions.
  2. Choose your transport. Rent a car if you are comfortable driving on regional roads, or hire a private driver through a reputable local agency. Driving is the only way to manage a family schedule without waiting for infrequent public buses.
  3. Time your Petra visit. Get to the Petra visitor center by 6:00 AM. Walking the Siq with kids before the midday heat and the main tour bus crowds makes the experience significantly less stressful.
  4. Pack for elevation changes. Jordan temperatures swing wildly. Amman can be chilly in the evenings, while Wadi Rum gets cold at night even in spring. Pack layers, not just summer clothes.
Is it safe to travel in Jordan with kids?
Yes, Jordan is widely considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East. Locals are extremely welcoming to families.
Are there diaper changing facilities?
Rarely. Carry a portable changing mat and dispose of waste properly; be prepared to change in your car or private spaces.