How to Plan a Solo Jordan Itinerary
A solo Jordan trip needs 7-10 days minimum to see Petra, Wadi Rum, and Amman properly. Book accommodations in advance, join day tours for desert activities, and budget $80-120 per day including mid-range hotels and meals.
- Choose your duration and entry point. Plan 7-10 days minimum. Fly into Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. Less than a week feels rushed - you need 2 days in Petra, 1-2 days in Wadi Rum, and 2-3 days for Amman and day trips.
- Book Petra accommodations first. Stay in Wadi Musa (the town outside Petra) for easy park access. Book 2-3 months ahead - solo travelers have fewer room options. Petra Guest House or Movenpick are walking distance to the entrance.
- Arrange Wadi Rum desert experience. Book a desert camp through your accommodation or directly with operators like Frah Rock Bridge Camp. Solo travelers pay full price but can often join existing groups for jeep tours and camel rides.
- Plan your transport connections. JETT buses run Amman-Petra-Wadi Rum reliably. Book seats online in advance. Private drivers cost $80-120 between major sites but offer flexibility. Avoid driving solo in desert areas.
- Get your Jordan Pass. Buy online before arrival. Covers visa fees plus entry to Petra and 40+ sites. The 3-site pass (75 JOD) works for most itineraries. Must stay 4+ nights in Jordan to save money versus separate visa.
- Plan your Petra strategy. Buy 2-day Petra tickets - one day is not enough. Start early (6 AM) to beat crowds and heat. Treasury, Monastery, and High Place of Sacrifice are must-sees. Wear broken-in hiking boots.
- Is Jordan safe for solo female travelers?
- Yes, Jordan is very safe for solo women. Dress modestly, stay in reputable accommodations, and be aware that friendly conversation is normal. Harassment is rare but report any issues to tourist police.
- Can I do Petra in one day?
- Technically yes, but you'll miss major sites. The Monastery alone takes 4+ hours round trip. Buy the 2-day ticket - it's only 5 JOD more and lets you see Petra properly without rushing.
- Do I need to join tours or can I explore independently?
- Most sites work fine independently. Petra and Amman are easy solo. For Wadi Rum, you'll need to join jeep tours since walking alone in the desert isn't safe. Many solo travelers book camp packages that include activities.
- What if I don't speak Arabic?
- English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Download Google Translate with offline Arabic. Most signs at major sites have English. Hotel staff and tour operators speak good English.