Planning your first solo trip to Jordan
Planning a solo trip to Jordan requires booking your Jordan Pass before arrival to cover visa fees and site entries. Stick to the well-trodden 'King's Highway' route for safety, rely on JETT buses or hired drivers for transit, and always carry physical cash for rural markets.
- Purchase the Jordan Pass. Buy the Jordan Pass online before you fly. It covers your tourist visa fee (40 JOD) and gives you entry to 40+ sites, including Petra. Choose the 3-day pass option to ensure you have enough time at Petra.
- Map your transport. For solo travelers, the JETT bus is the safest and most reliable way to get between Amman, Petra, and Aqaba. For Wadi Rum, pre-arrange a transfer with your camp host rather than attempting to navigate the desert solo.
- Book your first two nights in Amman. Stay in the downtown area (Al-Balad) for easy walking access to food and local culture. Use the first two days to adjust to the pace before heading south.
- Download offline maps. Download Google Maps for the entire country while on Wi-Fi. Many areas, especially on the King's Highway or near the Dead Sea, have spotty mobile data coverage.
- Is it safe for a solo traveler?
- Jordan is widely considered the safest country in the region. Hospitality is a cultural pillar; just use common sense, dress modestly, and avoid driving at night.
- Do I need to speak Arabic?
- No. English is widely spoken in tourism hubs, hotels, and among the younger generation in Amman.