How to plan a solo female travel itinerary for Jordan

Plan 7-10 days focusing on Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. Book accommodations in advance, dress conservatively, and consider joining group tours for remote areas. Jordan is generally safe for solo female travelers with proper preparation.

  1. Choose your duration and main destinations. Plan for 7-10 days minimum. Include Amman (2 days), Petra (2 days), Wadi Rum (1-2 days), and Dead Sea (1 day). Add Jerash and Ajloun if you have 10+ days. This covers Jordan's highlights without rushing.
  2. Book accommodations strategically. Reserve hotels or guesthouses with good reviews from solo female travelers. In Petra, stay in Wadi Musa village. For Wadi Rum, book established desert camps. Choose centrally located hotels in Amman near Rainbow Street or downtown. Book 2-3 weeks ahead during peak season (March-May, September-November).
  3. Plan your transportation. Use JETT buses for Amman-Petra route (4 hours, 10 JOD). Book private transfers for Petra-Wadi Rum (1.5 hours, 35-50 JOD). Use taxis or ride-sharing in cities. Consider renting a car only if comfortable with Middle Eastern driving styles. Download Careem app for reliable transport.
  4. Research cultural expectations. Pack conservative clothing covering shoulders and knees. Bring a lightweight scarf for mosque visits. Learn basic Arabic greetings. Understand that Jordan is Muslim-majority but tourist-friendly. Avoid public displays of affection and drinking alcohol outside designated areas.
  5. Plan your Petra visit. Buy your Jordan Pass online (75 JOD for 3-day Petra access plus visa). Start early at 6 AM to beat crowds and heat. Allow full day for main trail to Treasury and Monastery. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring 3 liters of water. Consider hiring a local guide (30-50 JOD) for historical context.
  6. Arrange desert experience. Book Wadi Rum overnight camp experience (40-80 JOD including dinner, breakfast, jeep tour). Choose camps with separate bathroom facilities. Bring warm clothes for night temperatures. Skip if traveling alone and uncomfortable with group settings - day trips from Aqaba are an option.
Is Jordan safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Jordan is considered one of the safest Middle Eastern countries for solo female travel. Exercise normal precautions: dress conservatively, avoid walking alone late at night, and trust your instincts. Harassment is rare but can happen - respond firmly and seek help from locals who are generally protective of tourists.
Do I need to cover my hair in Jordan?
Hair covering is not required except when visiting active mosques. However, bringing a lightweight scarf is recommended for mosque visits, sun protection, and showing cultural respect. Cover shoulders and knees in public areas.
How much Arabic do I need to know?
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning basic greetings (marhaba for hello, shukran for thank you) is appreciated but not essential. Download Google Translate app for offline use in remote areas.
Can I drink alcohol in Jordan?
Yes, alcohol is available in hotels, restaurants, and some shops, but it's expensive due to high taxes. Avoid drinking in public areas and be respectful of local customs. Some areas like Wadi Rum desert camps may not serve alcohol.
What's the best way to get around as a solo female traveler?
Use JETT buses for intercity travel, official taxis or Careem app for city transport, and pre-arranged transfers for remote areas like Wadi Rum. Avoid hitchhiking and always negotiate taxi fares beforehand or insist on using the meter.