Happy Birthday to me! On my golden birthday I treated myself to a trip to Jordan. A place where golden deserts whisper ancient secrets and lost cities rise from cliffs. Wandering through the candlelit path to reach Petra felt like stepping into another world, and spending my golden birthday among its ancient stone facades was an experience I’ll never forget. Sleeping under the stars in Wadi Rum offered the kind of silence that touches your soul, and floating effortlessly in the mystical waters of the Dead Sea felt like magic. From Roman ruins to hidden castles and endless desert skies, Jordan is a place where wonder lives in every corner. The best part is you can easily visit the country in one week.
A small pre trip check
✔️ Research visa requirements and apply if needed. Did you know? On Jordan’s official tourism site, you can conveniently purchase a tourist entry visa and tickets for major attractions in one go by using the Jordan Pass.
Day 1
Landing in Jordan
Arrive in Amman, Jordan’s capital city. Commute to your accommodation. Now if you have the energy after your flight then dive right into exploring the heart of the city. You have to visit the Amman Citadel, King Abdullah I Mosque, and the Roman Theater.
Day 2
Take a day trip from Amman
Take a day trip to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Explore ancient ruins, including the Temple of Artemis and the Oval Plaza. Don’t forget to visit the Ajloun Castle, a medieval fortress built by the Ayyubids to defend against Crusader attacks.
Day 3
Now onto another busy day of sightseeing start your day by visiting the ancient city of Madaba and see the famous Madaba Map, a Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land. Explore other mosaic-filled churches in the city.
Head to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, for a one-of-a-kind experience. Before stepping into the water, slather yourself in mineral rich mud for a natural spa treatment. Then lean back, relax, and float effortlessly in the salty water.
Helpful tip: the mud has a chance of staining your swimsuit so don’t wear your brand new one or choose a darker color option.
Day 4
Petra
I still get goosebumps thinking about Petra. If your travel plans are flexible, I highly recommend spending two days exploring. I only had one day from morning to evening, and while it was incredible, it felt rushed. With an extra day, you have time to truly take it all in without hurrying from one site to the next. Petra is so much more than just the Monastery or the Treasury. There are winding trails, hidden tombs, and stunning views scattered throughout this ancient city, each one worth the time to explore.
Nothing, I mean absolutely nothing prepares you for the core memory of seeing the Treasury for the first time. It peeks out slowly as you walk through the rock pathway.
Of course, take your pictures, but so will everyone else. A little helpful tip is that the crowds are significantly smaller when you are exiting Petra. Smaller in front of the Treasury on the ground and smaller from the bird’s eye view photo spots too.
Day 5
Wadi Rum
Journey to Wadi Rum, a vast desert landscape known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and rock formations. Take a jeep tour or go camel riding through the desert. There you will enjoy a traditional Bedouin-style lunch and spend the night camping under the stars in a camp for a memorable desert experience.
Day 6
Head to Aqaba, Jordan’s only coastal city located on the Red Sea. Relax on the beaches, go snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters. Visit Aqaba’s historic sites, including the Aqaba Castle and the ancient ruins of Ayla.
Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants overlooking the Red Sea. I recommend checking out Khubza & Seneya.
Day 7
Return to Amman and spend your final day exploring any remaining attractions or shopping for souvenirs in the city’s markets. Don’t forget to bargain!
Helpful Tips for Planning your Trip to Jordan
Book your Flight
Start by comparing airfare early to get the best deals.
Use tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track price trends and flexible travel dates.
Book your Accommodation
Whether you’re looking for hostels or boutique hotels the Jordan has a wide range of options.
Booking.com is great for hotels and guesthouses across the country.
Hostelworld is ideal for backpackers and budget travelers.
Travel Insurance for the unexpected
Always, always have travel insurance! Travel insurance is essential. It protects you from unexpected events like flight delays, illness, theft, or accidents.
I recommend SafetyWing, which offers flexible and affordable plans perfect for long-term travelers and digital nomads.
Best Resources to book Tours and Activities
GetYourGuide is great for booking everything from city tours and museum tickets to outdoor adventures. It’s easy to use, has tons of reviews, clear pricing, and offers free cancellation on most bookings.
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