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Day Trips from Amman

Day Trips from Amman

Amman Jordan Travel Guide

Nearby Destinations

From Amman, discover several iconic locations, each providing an unique experience. These locations blend ancient history and gorgeous landscapes. Consider a trip with GetYourGuide for planned experiences.

Jerash (Gerasa): Approximately one hour north of Amman, Jerash stands as one of the best-preserved Roman cities globally. Its impressive ruins include colonnaded streets, temples, theaters, and a hippodrome, offering an extraordinary glimpse into Roman provincial life. Ajloun Castle: A 12th-century Muslim castle built by Saladin's general. Situated approximately 1.5 hours north of Amman (usually matched with Jerash), this well-preserved fortress displays panoramic views of the Jordan Valley. Dead Sea: The lowest point on Earth, about one hour west of Amman. Famous for its unique floating experience. Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Al-Maghtas): The traditional site of Jesus's baptism, an UNESCO World Heritage site, situated about 45 minutes west of Amman. Madaba: Referred to as the "City of Mosaics," Madaba lies roughly 45 minutes south of Amman. It houses the oldest mosaic a map showing the Holy Land. Mount Nebo: The site where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land. Located approximately one hour south of Amman, near Madaba, it displays breathtaking panoramic views.

Transportation and Planning

  • Rental Car: Offers maximum flexibility to visit multiple sites at your own pace.
  • JETT Bus: Provides scheduled services from Amman to major destinations.
  • Private Taxi/Driver: Hire for a full day; negotiate the price beforehand for convenience.
  • Organized Tours: Many companies offer full-day excursions, usually including transportation, a guide, and entry fees. Explore options on GetYourGuide.

Natural Escapes

Beyond its historical sites, Jordan features stunning natural landscapes, many accessible as outings from Amman. These escapes contrast with the urban environment.

Explore Nature Reserves

Jordan's reserves display diverse natural beauty.

Reserves

  • Ajloun Forest Reserve: Hiking routes through oak and pistachio forests.
  • Mujib Biosphere Reserve: Canyoning and hiking through water-filled gorges (seasonal).
  • Visitor Impact: Follow regulations, follow marked trails, do not disturb wildlife.

Discover Scenic Routes

Jordan features breathtaking scenic drives and unique landscapes.

Highlights

  • The King's Highway: Ancient trade route with stunning drives through valleys.
  • Dead Sea: Unique hypersaline lake with captivating, barren landscapes.
  • Rural Areas: Explore agricultural regions and hamlets around Madaba or Jerash.

Day Trip Planning Insights

Seasonal Enjoyment

  • Spring (March-May): Spectacular wildflowers across the countryside.
  • Summer: Outdoor activities early morning or late afternoon.
  • Winter: Colder temperatures and rain; occasionally snowfall.
  • Mujib Canyon: Seasonal closure, typically November to March.

Traveler Experience

  • Organized Tours: Convenience, guide, fixed itinerary.
  • Independent Travel: Flexibility for personalized stops plus pace.
  • Rental Car: Requires comfort driving in varying conditions.
  • Planning: Allocate complete days for joint major sites.

Tour vs. Independent Comparison

  • Organized TourHigh Convenience
  • Guided InsightsProvided
  • Fixed ItineraryYes
  • Pre-arranged LogisticsIncluded
  • Independent TravelHigh Flexibility
  • Personal PaceSet by You
  • Customized StopsPossible
  • Potential Cost SavingsFor Groups

Travel Tip

Consider the GetYourGuide app for booking tours and activities from Amman, simplifying your day trip planning.

Cultural Excursions

Expand your cultural understanding by visiting historical sites and traditional areas outside of Amman. These day trips have a range of perspectives on Jordan's heritage.

Umm ar-Rasas

UNESCO World Heritage site with Roman, Byzantine, and early Islamic ruins, famous for mosaic floors.

Desert Castles

Collection of early Islamic forts like Qasr Amra (with frescoes), Qasr Kharana, and Qasr Azraq east of Amman.

Madaba Villages

Renowned for olive groves and old-fashioned farming practices, offering insight into agricultural life.

Pilgrimage Sites

Jordan hosts sites of profound religious significance.

Locations

  • Mount Nebo: Believed to be where Moses witnessed the Promised Land.
  • Bethany Beyond the Jordan: Revered traditional baptism site of Jesus.
  • Religious Significance: Sites hold intense spiritual importance for Christians and Jews.

Local Traditions

Engage with Jordan's rich cultural traditions beyond the major sites.

Cultural Immersion

  • Local Hospitality: Experience the warmth of Jordanian welcome in rural settings.
  • Traditional Music: Find ways to hear authentic local music.
  • Culinary Practices: Observe or participate in traditional cooking demonstrations.

Enrich Your Cultural Journey

Support Local ArtisansPurchase artisan crafts from markets.
Visit Heritage CentersExplore cultural institutions.
Engage with LocalsLearn basic Arabic phrases.
Respect CustomsObserve local traditions and practices.

Jordan Pass Value

  • Visa Fee IncludedYes
  • Access to Places40+ Attractions
  • Savings PotentialHigh
  • ConvenienceOne Pass for Many
  • Petra Visits (1 Day)Included
  • Petra Visits (2 Days)Included (Higher tier)
  • Validity2 Weeks
  • RecommendationHighly Advised

Insight

Combining day trips strategically, like Jerash and Ajloun, maximizes your experience in Jordan's historical north.

Multi-Day Extensions

For those with more time, extending your trip beyond Amman permits experience of Jordan's most iconic wonders, including Petra and Wadi Rum.

Petra Exploration

The ancient Nabataean city, an UNESCO World Heritage site and only one of the New Seven Beauties of the World.

Visit Details

  • Duration: No less than one full day, ideally two, for thorough exploration.
  • Location: Approximately a three-hour drive south of Amman.
  • Highlights: Treasury, Monastery, Royal Tombs, rock-cut architecture.

Wadi Rum Adventure

A magnificent desert landscape, famous for its dramatic red sands, towering rock formations, and Bedouin culture.

Desert Experiences

  • Activities: Jeep tours, camel treks, rock climbing.
  • Stay: Unforgettable staying overnight in Bedouin camps under a star-filled sky.
  • Location: Approximately one hour south of Petra.

Aqaba: Red Sea Gateway

Jordan's only coastal city, offering Red Sea diving, snorkeling, and beaches.

Coastal Activities

  • Marine Life: Explore coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystems.
  • Relaxation: Enjoy sunbathing and coastal breezes.
  • Water Sports: Options for diving, snorkeling, and boat trips.

Transportation Connections

Effective transport system options link major southern destinations.

Travel Modes

  • JETT Bus: Straight and comfortable connections from Amman to Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba.
  • Private Taxis/Drivers: Commonly hired for routes that take more time, direct transport and flexibility.
  • Rental Cars: Continue your self-drive adventure, stopping at points of interest.

Suggested Regional Itinerary

A popular and comprehensive itinerary for exploring Jordan's highlights often follows this route.

Northern Hub

Amman (2-3 days) → Jerash/Ajloun (1 day).

Central Wonders

Madaba/Mount Nebo/Dead Sea (1 day).

Southern Icons

Petra (1-2 days) → Wadi Rum (1-2 days) → Aqaba (2-3 days).

Recommendation

For travel for an extended period, coordinate your multi-day tours through a reputable operator or consider a G Adventures trip for a well-planned experience.