How to Plan an Adventure Trip to Jordan

Jordan adventure trips need 7-10 days minimum to cover Petra, Wadi Rum desert camping, and Dead Sea experiences. Book accommodations 2-3 months ahead for peak season (March-May, September-November). Budget $80-120 per day including adventure activities, local transport, and mid-range lodging.

  1. Choose your adventure focus. Decide between hiking-focused (Petra trails, Dana Biosphere), desert-focused (Wadi Rum camping, camel treks), or mixed adventure. Most first-timers do mixed: 3 days Petra area, 2 days Wadi Rum, 2 days Dead Sea/Amman.
  2. Book Wadi Rum desert camp early. Reserve Bedouin camps 6-8 weeks ahead for peak months. Feynan Ecolodge and Feras Desert Camp book fastest. Confirm what's included: meals, activities, transport from Wadi Rum village.
  3. Plan Petra hiking days. Buy 2-day Jordan Pass ($70) or 3-day pass ($75) for multiple Petra entries. Book early morning starts for Treasury hikes. Al Khubtha and Jabal Haroun trails need guides - arrange through your hotel.
  4. Arrange transport between regions. Rent a car (easiest for adventure gear) or book JETT bus between cities. Driving Amman to Petra takes 3.5 hours, Petra to Wadi Rum is 1.5 hours. Car rental runs $25-40 per day plus gas.
  5. Schedule around weather. Desert camping is miserable June-August (45°C days). Petra hiking is brutal in summer heat. Book March-May or September-November. Winter desert nights hit near freezing.
  6. Confirm activity requirements. Most Wadi Rum activities (jeep tours, camel rides) are included with camp stays. Rock climbing and canyoning need separate booking through specialized operators like Tropical Desert Trips.
Is Jordan safe for adventure travel?
Very safe. Jordan is one of the most stable countries in the Middle East. Standard adventure precautions apply - inform others of hiking plans, carry extra water in desert.
Can I do Petra and Wadi Rum in one day each?
Possible but rushed. Petra needs minimum 2 full days to see main sites properly. Wadi Rum deserves overnight camping experience. Plan 3 days Petra, 2 days Wadi Rum minimum.
What adventure activities need advance booking?
Desert camps (6-8 weeks ahead), hot air balloon rides (weather dependent), advanced rock climbing with guides. Most other activities can be arranged on arrival.
How much hiking fitness do I need?
Moderate fitness sufficient for main Petra trails. Monastery climb is 800 steps. Advanced hikes like Al Khubtha need good fitness and no fear of heights.