Planning a Solo Trip Through Jordan
To navigate Jordan solo, stick to the well-trodden 'King's Highway' route and book a rental car for maximum independence. Plan for 7 days to cover the main sights without rushing, as the public bus system is infrequent and unreliable for tourists.
- Buy the Jordan Pass. Purchase the Jordan Pass online before you arrive. It covers your visa fee (which is waived if you stay at least 3 nights) and includes entry to Petra and over 40 other sites. It pays for itself after just two major attractions.
- Secure your transport. Rent a small sedan at Queen Alia International Airport. Driving in Jordan is straightforward outside of central Amman. Avoid driving at night, as road lighting is poor and livestock often wander onto rural highways.
- Map your overnight stops. Structure your trip in a loop: Amman (2 nights), Wadi Musa/Petra (2 nights), and Wadi Rum (1 night). This keeps you moving south while allowing enough time to explore each region thoroughly.
- Dress for cultural respect. While Jordan is progressive, solo travelers—especially women—should dress modestly. Cover shoulders and knees at all times to avoid unwanted attention and show respect at religious sites.
- Is it safe to drive solo in Jordan?
- Yes, it is very safe. Jordanians are hospitable, and road signs are in both Arabic and English. Just avoid driving after dark.
- Do I need to speak Arabic?
- Not at all. English is widely spoken, especially in the tourism sector and among younger generations.