One Week in Jordan – The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary for Petra, Wadi Rum &amp

Book a sunrise Petra visit to beat the beaten crowds, then start with a light breakfast before heading to the Siq. The first light on the Treasury is literally unbeatable, and the route covers the main highlights in about 2–3 hours. Access opens around 5:30 a.m. in november, when the air is cool and the crowds are thinner. This quick, focused start sets a confident pace for the rest of the week.

Wadi Rum should be your second anchor, with a range of red dunes and towering cliffs. A 4×4 jeep tour takes you to natural arches, desert bridges, and springs tucked into shaded corners. The Bedouin guide said to keep breaks short and the pace steady. The same route as other guests can be fine, but be ready to adjust based on the guide’s advice. The day peaks with a sunset stop to watch the colors shift along the horizon, and your driver might thank you for the smooth ride. A night in a desert camp under the stars makes the experience memorable.

Aqaba on the coast adds variety, offering snorkeling, beach time, and fresh seafood. Stay near the marina and walk along the Corniche to reach a string of family-run restaurants, many with a similar vibe. A simple restaurant strip near the water serves grilled fish and mezze until dusk. For connectivity, pick up a local SIM from zain so maps and restaurant suggestions stay on hand, and you can share photos with friends back home–shutterstock shots or not, the memory is priceless. If you’re curious about aqaba life, local cafés along the shore are worth a short detour.

Dana region hints appear on day 4 if you want quieter trails and distinctive scenery. The dana path blends plateaus, cedar groves and stone villages; dana itself hosts small lodges, and you might meet locals who share a same love of starlit skies. Pack layers for cool evenings and bring a water bottle; the reserve’s range of elevations keeps walks interesting, from rocky overlooks to canyon bottoms. If you’re unsure, a short guided hike is enough to get a feel for the terrain without overdoing it.

Practical wrap-up for the week: book lodging close to Petra or Wadi Rum to minimize drive times, and consider a single transport pass to stay flexible. In november the weather is mild, but nights can dip, so a light jacket helps. In Jordan’s jordans spirit, locals welcome questions, so say thank to hosts and guides who follow safety practices. If you want extra inspiration, load a few shutterstock images for quick reference and map the route with a local SIM from zain. And yes, you’ll probably want to bring a spare pair of shoes for rocky stretches, because the week covers a mix of cobbled streets and dusty tracks, and you’ll want footwear that survives the beaten paths.

One Week in Jordan: The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary for Petra, Wadi Rum & A One Week Jordan Itinerary

Book a chosen 7-day loop that covers Petra, Wadi Rum, and Mujib Reserve with a single licensed operator to keep the duration in check and the costs predictable. You gain authentic experiences, staying in fabulous hotels and remote desert camps, with guided tours and free time for markets and meals. This plan is ideal for travelers who want to see historical sites while experiencing local life inside markets and villages, and it works well for couples, families, and blogs seeking real memories.

In practice, pick accommodations near Petra and Amman for easy access, tours booked in advance, and reserve a night under the stars in a Wadi Rum camp. The Mujib walk is best done early; check the park’s opening hours and choose the water or dry route. The price includes entry fees, guides, and meals in the accommodations; keep some money for extra stops at roadside markets and little shops that sell handmade crafts.

Day 1 – Arrival in Amman: check into a central hotel, then visit the Citadel, the Roman Theater, and the markets around the city center. Dinner at a family-run restaurant gives you authentic tastes of Jordan; sleep in a comfortable room with modern amenities.

Day 2 – Amman to Madaba and Mount Nebo, then Petra: stop in Madaba to view the famous mosaic map, continue to Mount Nebo for a horizon view over the Jordan Valley, and finish with a drive along the Kings Highway to Petra. Check into a chosen Petra area hotel and unwind before the next day’s exploration.

Day 3 – Petra: full day inside the archaeological site: explore the Siq, Treasury, and the Street of Facades, and choose a shorter climb to a high viewpoint for sunset. A second option lets you see the Monastery path if you’re keen, with breaks for meals at Petra’s inside eateries. This stop is a must for travelers who want to connect with the past in a fabulous setting.

Day 4 – Petra to Wadi Rum: morning transfer to the desert, a 4×4 tour into the rock-cut canyons and arches, lunch at a camp, and an evening under a star-filled sky. Overnight in a camel-brown camp with traditional meals and a friendly guide.

Day 5 – Wadi Rum: full day jeep tours among red cliffs with a stop at the magic rock formations; you can try a short climb and see petroglyphs. Dinner around a camp fire; the night is in tents to feel the desert night air.

Day 6 – Mujib Reserve: early drive to Mujib for a canyon walk or water trail, depending on the season; you’ll pass through deep gorges with martian red walls. Return to Amman in the afternoon and enjoy a meal at a city restaurant before a last night in a modern hotel.

Day 7 – Amman sights and departure: tour the royal palaces and historical neighborhoods, shop at markets for souvenirs, and sample a final Jordanian meal before travels home. If time allows, swing by the archaeological museum to see artifacts from Jordans past before you head to the airport.

One Week in Jordan: Practical Day-by-Day Schedule and Logistics

Hire a private driver for the week to minimize transit time and maximize flexibility; secure the Jordan Pass to cover visa and Petra entry, and book Petra tickets early.

Day 1: Arrive in Amman, settle into a central hotel, then head to the Citadel for panoramic views and a quick history fix. The Roman Theater sits within easy walking distance, so you can circle back through downtown to a place on Rainbow Street for a late lunch. Open maps in your phone will help you navigate backstreets; this is a relaxed start that lets you gauge your pace and adjust the rest of the week.

Day 2: A half-day morning drive to Jerash to explore one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the country, then a midafternoon return to Amman to rest or stroll the markets. There are lots of routes you could take, but a direct loop via Jerash (Jl route) keeps driving time reasonable and lets you compare columns, arches, and the theater against what you saw on Day 1. If you prefer fewer crowds, an equally strong option is to swap Jerash for Ajloun Castle ruins, which offers forested scenery and a different historical perspective.

Day 3: Drive to Petra via Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Kerak. Madaba’s map mosaic gives a quick historical primer before you climb to Mount Nebo for sweeping valley views. The route continues south, with Kerak Castle as a commanding stone beacon. If you’re short on time, you could trim Kerak and spend more time in Madaba or Nebo instead. Packing a light snack and water keeps you energized as you shift gears from high-contrast viewpoints to desert scenery.

Day 4: Petra–Main Trail. Start early to walk the Siq and catch the Treasury in the first light. A guided option can help you spot hidden inscriptions and explain the geology behind the rock formations; otherwise, you can follow a widely recommended self-guided route. Bring layers for chilly starts and sun protection for the exposed sections; a solid plan is to cover the Treasury, the Street of Facades, and the Royal Tombs before detouring to the Basin Trail. If you have extra energy, consider a short side hike to the Mughatta viewpoint for a different perspective on the amphitheater and surrounding canyons. A late lunch in Wadi Musa offers a local grill menu to refuel after a big morning.

Day 5: Wadi Rum private jeep and camp. Book a desert camp that includes a sunset drive, a grill-style dinner, and stargazing. The open desert looks completely different from the Petra canyons, and the wide, open skies create a dramatic transition from archaeological monuments to natural landscapes. A full-day expedition provides opportunities for rock climbing or a short trek to scenic overlooks; many routes offer a direct, efficient circuit to minimize time in transit while maximizing exposure to rock formations and Bedouin hospitality. Pack sun protection, a light jacket for desert nights, and a compact bag for the day trip in case you stay out late in the camp.

Day 6: Dead Sea or Aqaba beaches. If you opt for the Dead Sea, plan a floating morning followed by a spa visit; if you go to Aqaba, you can enjoy a morning beach session and a noon snorkeling or glass-bottom boat ride. Both options provide a different contrast to the historic sites and desert scenery you’ve already seen. The Dead Sea area offers medicinal mud and mineral-rich water, while Aqaba’s coast presents a red-sea look with colorful marine life–absolutely worthwhile if you enjoy water-based leisure. Either choice pairs well with a late afternoon return to Amman.

Day 7: Amman farewells and logistics. Check out by 11:00, then head to the airport or linger in a final local spot for a quick coffee. If your flight is later in the day, use the time to collect souvenirs in a nearby market or to review a route map for a future visit, since the country’s history and landscapes tend to reward repeat visits. Be mindful of border and security checks, and keep your wallet ready for small, customary payments at sites and shops. This final step ties together the plan you built in the blog, ensuring you leave with a clear heading on how to return and what to explore next.

Logistics and tips to streamline the week. Start by confirming visa requirements and whether a Jordan Pass makes sense for your itinerary. Pack light layers, a reusable water bottle, sun protection, and a compact camera or phone with enough storage for lots of photos of Petra’s rock-cut architecture and Wadi Rum’s starry skies. For transit between cities, consider a private driver for the most direct route, or mix in a few shared transfers if you want to reduce costs; both options work well, depending on your schedule. In Petra, arrive early, exit before the heat peaks, and use a reliable map app to stay on the main route and avoid getting lost in side canyons. In Wadi Rum, book a camp that offers a grill-style dinner and a secure overnight setup, ensuring a comfortable rest after a long day of exploration. This approach balances pace and flexibility, letting you savor each place rather than rushing through them. If you want to optimize for a lighter carry, choose one base in Amman and use day trips to cover the core highlights, then switch to a Petra-centered plan for a couple of days to maintain energy and focus. With careful planning, this one-week plan makes the most of their country’s rich history, natural beauty, and welcoming people.

7-Day Route Overview with Daily Driving Times Between Amman, Petra, and Wadi Rum

Recommendation: Run a loop Amman → Petra → Wadi Rum → Amman, seven days with two nights in Amman, two in Petra, and two in Wadi Rum. Driving times below help you pace each day: Amman to Petra 2.5–3 hours; Petra to Wadi Rum 1.5–2 hours; Wadi Rum to Amman 4–4.5 hours. Plan buffer for ticketing, meals, and a museum stop or a view point along the way.

Day 1 – Amman: Arrive in the capital, check into a hotel with a city vista, and visit the historical Jordan Museum for a concise written overview of the country’s past. Stroll the Citadel for elevated view across the old town, then unwind with a meal in a local kitchen-area restaurant. Nights in Amman set the pace and give you time to adjust to the climate and time zone.

Day 2 – Amman to Petra: Start early and drive about 2.5–3 hours to Petra. Buy your ticket at the gate or online, then enter the Siq with a guided narrative to avoid missing giant façades like the Treasury. The route offers a mix of historical carved facades and modern visitor facilities; you’ll find many spots for panoramic views and photo opportunities.
Variations in pace exist, so plan a moderate itinerary and keep a flexible day for top highlights.

Day 3 – Petra: Dedicate a full day to Petra’s core → Treasury, Monastery, and Royal Tombs. If you’ve got time, take a shorter optional hike to overlook points to compare views from different elevations. Prepare for sun and heat; a light lunch in the shaded courtlets can refresh you between sectors. You can expect a range of resorts nearby for night basing if you prefer a more comfortable finish to the day.

Day 4 – Petra to Wadi Rum: Depart Petra and drive roughly 1.5–2 hours to the Wadi Rum desert. Check into a desert camp or a desert resort, then prepare for a guided jeep excursion among giant red sandstone formations. Evening skies here deliver some of the clearest views you’ll find in the countrys landscape, with nights under the stars that feel perfectly remote.

Day 5 – Wadi Rum: Spend the day on a guided 4×4 journey, or swap in a camel ride and a short hike to catch sweeping view points. The terrain offers variations in routes, so someone on the team can tailor a circuit to your pace. Desert camps provide 泳滩 of sand-adjacent comfort, and you’ll appreciate the giant canyon walls as you unwind after a day on the move. Nights in Wadi Rum provide a natural rhythm to your week.

Day 6 – Wadi Rum to Amman: Return to Amman, with an expected drive of 4–4.5 hours. Use the afternoon to visit a city museum or a rooftop cafe with a view of towers and markets. If you missed a favorite site earlier, this is a good chance to revisit, therefore you can balance your time between shopping, snacks, and a final cultural pulse of the country.

Day 7 – Amman: A relaxed wrap-up in Amman lets you explore additional historical districts or purchase last-minute souvenirs. Consider a shorter morning stroll, then a final lunch in a kitchen-lined restaurant before you head to the airport. This day is easy for device-free quiet moments and a final view of the city’s evolving views.

Petra Day Schedule: Siq Entrance, Treasury, Monastery – Best Times to Visit

Start at the Siq entrance at first light, around 6:00 a.m. in cooler months, and 6:30 a.m. during peak seasons, to secure the best light and a quieter path. Walk the 1.2-km corridor before crowds swell, and let the front-wall colors wash over the rock as you approach the Treasury. This window lets you explore with minimal interruption and gives you momentum for the rest of the day.

The Siq Entrance rewards a steady pace: plan about 20–40 minutes to reach the Treasury depending on your pace and how many photo stops you take. As you move through the narrow walls, listen to a guided brief from experts or a licensed guide like Zain, who can share the rock’s formation, the ancient water channels, and the community stories that travel through this sandstone canyon. Have your documents ready as a routine traveler and stay mindful of weather; the rock reflects colors vividly in the morning light, inspiring every traveler to find a moment of calm before the day heats up.

Visiting the Treasury is best in the early light, roughly 7:00–9:00 a.m., when the façade catches warm amber tones and the surrounding benches are still quiet. Take a few minutes for a wide-angle shot from the steps, then switch to closer frames from the plaza front to capture the intricacies of Al Khazneh. For a deeper understanding, experts often recommend a short, guided pause to hear the legend behind the urn and to compare the façade with other carved forms through the ages–it’s a fact that this rock-cut masterpiece remains Petra’s most famous image and a true inspiration for many visitors.

Monastery (Ad Deir) demands a longer stretch: the climb from the Basin is steep, with hundreds of steps and uneven ground. Plan 2–3 hours round trip, depending on your pace and the heat. In months with milder temperatures, you can start the hike around 11:00 a.m. and reach the Monastery by early afternoon, then linger as the light softens. In hotter periods, it’s wiser to begin your hike closer to 2:00–3:00 p.m. to enjoy cooler air and long shadows. If you prefer a smoother experience, opt for a guided option that tailors the route to your fitness level and schedules, a common choice among travelers who want a personal touch from a local expert or a trusted guide such as a front-line Zain-led group.

Practical essentials help you maximize the day: carry water, wear sturdy footwear, and wrap up any documents you’ll need for entry and transit. Keep your belongings light, and plan for lots of sun exposure–months with frying heat require extra hydration and slower pacing. Have a map or offline route and consider a short rest at a shaded spot between sites. If you stay flexible, you’ll probably find that the best moments come when you pause to listen to the rock and absorb the inspiration that this place offers to explorers and homebound wanderers alike.

For a well-rounded experience, think in options rather than a rigid timeline. Some visitors pair Petra with a brief visit to nearby trails or museums, while others weave a route that includes a stop in Wadi Musa to reflect on the day’s adventures. The route is widely used by travelers who want to see the rock-formations up close, explore the canyon walk, and wrap up with a sunset view from the plateau overlook. If you’re coming from a broader itinerary that touches Bethlehem or other regional highlights, Petra remains a strong centerpiece, offering a huge spectrum of photo ops, guided anecdotes, and a fact-based narrative you can share with your travel companions. In short, know the front-loading tips, choose guided options when you need clarity, and you’ll probably leave with lasting memories and a clearer sense of how to explore Petra’s treasures in a single day.

Wadi Rum Experience Options: Jeep Safari, Camel Trek, and Desert Camp Night

Choose a Jeep Safari as your core Wadi Rum experience for a fast, comfortable introduction to the canyon scenery. Guides lead you across the sands, spot fine arches, and point out springs along the route. A smooth transfer from your hotel to the departure point keeps things convenient, and the day ends with a pleasant sunset back at camp.

Jeep itineraries vary by chosen operator and weather, with typical drives lasting 2-4 hours. Stops at landmark overlooks on the front of the canyon give you time to soak the view and take photos, while optional side canyons provide a dash of exploration. If you want more flexibility, look for a route that lets you leave the main track to veer into less-trodden corners and still keep a comfortable pace; for some, this adds a touch of sports energy without overdoing it.

Camel Trek delivers a slower, peaceful pace for savoring textures of rock and sand. The chosen camel team carries you along a gentle route, with short rests at shaded ledges and a breeze from the desert air. This option suits families and travelers seeking a quiet rhythm, and guides explain wildlife signs and rock markings along the way.

Desert Camp Night adds a comfortable sleep under starry skies, with fine meals, private tents, clean showers, and a pleasant ambience around the fireside. Over the nights, you rest in a cozy tent and wake to a sunrise over the dunes. If you want a change of scenery, you can arrange a transfer back to your base the next morning, or extend your stay for another night or two. For variety, consider a Mujib springs add-on after your Wadi Rum visit, if your schedule allows.

Here’s a quick glance at the options below to help you pick: Jeep Safari, Camel Trek, or Desert Camp Night. Depending on your group size and interests, choose the option that leaves the most time for the next day’s adventures here in Jordan; the chosen setup will feel natural and comfortable for everyone.

Packing Essentials for Petra and Wadi Rum: Clothing, Footwear, Sun Protection

Pack breathable, quick-dry clothing and sturdy boots for Petra and Wadi Rum.

These guidelines fit any month, including June, when heat peaks and desert trails demand solid gear.

• Clothing

  • Two to three moisture-wicking T-shirts and two UV-protective long-sleeve shirts to stay cool and shielded.
  • One lightweight fleece or jacket for cooler desert evenings; a scarf or keffiyeh adds protection against dust.
  • Convertible hiking pants that can become shorts; bring 1–2 lightweight, neutral-colored options.
  • Underwear and socks for 5–7 days; choose moisture-wicking socks and consider liner socks for longer days on the trails.
  • One cozy layer for comfortable downtime at camps or boutique lodges; avoid heavy fabrics that trap heat.
  • Hat with a wide brim and UV sunglasses; a neck gaiter helps on dusty stretches.
  • Look for fabrics that dry quickly and stay cool in hotter hours; denim is heavy and not ideal here.

• Footwear

  • One pair of sturdy hiking boots or trail runners with good grip; break them in at least two weeks before your trip.
  • One pair lightweight sandals or slippers for evenings at camp or around downtown lodging apartments.
  • Socks: 3–5 pairs of moisture-wicking options; bring two liner socks for longer miles of trails.

• Sun Protection

  • Sunscreen SPF 40–50, broad-spectrum; reapply every 2–3 hours, more often if sweating or dusty winds rise.
  • Sunglasses with UV 400 protection; lip balm with SPF 15–30 to prevent chapping.
  • A wide-brim hat, shade cloth, or a compact umbrella for peak sun hours; a scarf can also shield your face.

• Gear and packing strategy

  • Daypack 20–30 L with a secure, snug fit; carry 1.5–2 L of water and consider a hydration bladder for longer hikes.
  • Electrolyte sachets, small snacks, and a compact first-aid kit for longer trails and excursions.
  • Power bank, cables, and a dry bag for electronics; keep passport and cash in a waterproof pouch near your body.
  • Watch to keep track of times at sites and trekking windows; offline maps are useful when signals drop.
  • Pack a travel towel and basic toiletries in travel sizes; respect cultural sites and pack biodegradable products where possible.
  • To manage expenses, avoid heavy, bulky items and minimize checked baggage; bring a compact kit that covers essentials.
  • Roll clothes to fill space efficiently and keep items organized in packing cubes or pouches.
  • In markets around town, you can refresh supplies; a small, versatile wardrobe helps you look tidy without overpacking.

• Practical notes

  • June heat can feel martian at mid-day; schedule hikes for early mornings or late afternoons to maximize comfort.
  • Nearby accommodations and boutique camps may offer cozy lounges; plan a simple, authentic look for evening gatherings.
  • Near Petra’s entrances and Wadi Rum camps, expect dust; keep a small microfiber cloth for quick cleanups.
  • Reviews from travelers emphasize light gear and compact packing as the key to a flexible, lifetime-memorable trip.
  • A few essentials, like a compact flashlight or headlamp, can be handy after sunset for safe movement between camps and dining areas.

This list works for any month, including June, when the days demand shade and hydration and the trails stretch for miles. For boutique stays, a fabulous, simple look for evenings blends well with authentic desert hospitality–while staying cozy and practical for longer nights under a star-filled sky near the triclinium-style lounge spaces in some camps. Check the forecast, adjust layers, and keep your directions checked so you stay on the right trail and watch to time your visits to busy sites and markets.