How to spend two weeks solo in Jordan
Two weeks in Jordan gives you time to see Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and Amman while moving at a comfortable pace. Start north in Amman, work your way south to Petra and Wadi Rum, then finish at the Dead Sea. Budget $80-120 per day including accommodation, food, and transport.
- Plan your route. Follow the classic north-to-south circuit: Amman (2 days) → Jerash day trip → Amman to Petra (3 days) → Wadi Rum (2 days) → Aqaba (1 day) → Dead Sea (2 days) → back to Amman (1 day). This minimizes backtracking and puts the most physically demanding sites (Petra) in the middle when you're fresh.
- Book accommodation in advance. Reserve hotels in Petra and Wadi Rum camps 2-3 weeks ahead, especially March-May and September-November. Petra has limited lodging options. In Wadi Rum, book a Bedouin camp experience for at least one night. Use booking.com for hotels, contact camps directly via WhatsApp for better rates.
- Get the Jordan Pass. Buy the Jordan Pass online before you arrive ($99 for 3-day Petra access). It covers your visa fee, Petra entry, and 40+ other attractions. You'll save money if visiting more than just Petra. Present the digital pass on your phone at immigration and attractions.
- Arrange transport. Use JETT buses between major cities (Amman-Petra $12, 4 hours). For Wadi Rum, arrange pickup from your Petra hotel through your camp (usually $25-40). Rent a car only if you want flexibility for smaller sites - driving is straightforward but parking in Petra village is limited.
- Pack for diverse climates. Jordan has desert, mountains, and sea level. Bring layers for temperature swings - it can be 15°C in Petra at night and 35°C at midday. Pack comfortable hiking boots for Petra's rocky terrain and flip-flops for the Dead Sea.
- Plan your Petra strategy. Dedicate 3 full days: Day 1 - Treasury and main sites (6 hours), Day 2 - Monastery hike (4-5 hours), Day 3 - High Place of Sacrifice or catch-up day. Enter by 6am in summer to avoid crowds and heat. Bring 3 liters of water daily.
- Is Jordan safe for solo female travelers?
- Yes, Jordan is generally very safe for women traveling alone. Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees), stay in reputable accommodations, and be aware that some men may be overly friendly. Local women and hotel staff are helpful if you need advice about any situation.
- Do I need to know Arabic?
- No, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning basic Arabic greetings (marhaba = hello, shukran = thank you) is appreciated but not necessary. Most signs in tourist areas have English translations.
- Can I drink alcohol in Jordan?
- Yes, alcohol is legal and available in hotels, restaurants, and liquor stores in major cities. It's expensive due to high taxes. Some areas like Wadi Rum camps may not serve alcohol, so ask when booking if it matters to you.
- How much should I tip?
- Tip 10-15% at restaurants if service charge isn't included. For guides, tip 5-10 JOD per day. Hotel porters expect 1-2 JOD. Taxi drivers don't expect tips but rounding up is appreciated.
- What's the best way to get cash?
- ATMs are widely available in cities and accept international cards. Notify your bank before traveling. US dollars and Euros can be exchanged at hotels and exchange shops, but you'll get better rates at banks.