The ultimate solo travel guide to Jordan: Everything you need to know
For the solo traveler, Jordan’s historical treasures are just the tip of the iceberg. While the Kingdom of Jordan might be a relatively new country, its land boasts a mind-boggling array of ancient sites and antiquities, along with nature reserves, desert landscapes, spice markets and coral reefs, plus endless possibilities for adventure.
This curious mix of old and new can be seen throughout the country. Bedouin shepherds graze their goats on the outskirts of sparkling high-rise cities. Five-star spa resorts line the mineral-rich shores of the ancient Dead Sea. And upscale restaurants in the capital, Amman, serve refined Levantine cuisine that’s made using age-old Arabic recipes.
Petra is the country‘s undisputed highlight: a once-thriving Nabataean city carved into pink sandstone cliffs. You also won’t want to miss the Roman wonder of Jerash or the Martian landscape of Wadi Rum, where you can spend a night under the star-filled desert sky. Wherever you go, you’ll experience Jordan’s famous hospitality, along with copious cups of sugary tea.
If you’re keen to explore this relaxed Middle Eastern country but you’re unsure where to start, Flash Pack‘s Untold Jordan trip is packed full of can’t-do-by-yourself activities that you’ll experience alongside a group of like-minded solo travelers – all in their 30s and 40s. Here’s everything you need to know about a solo trip to Jordan.
Jordan travel facts
An Arab Kingdom bordering Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Israel and the Palestinian territories, Jordan is a haven of stability within a region of conflict. It may have become independent as recently as 1946 but its civilisation dates back thousands of years. With evidence of conquests by the Greeks, Romans, Muslims, Christian Crusaders and more, the country has over 100,000 archeological sites, with six Unesco World Heritage Sites, including Petra and Wadi Rum – the former is also considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
A whopping 75% of Jordan is covered in desert, with red sandscapes and towering cliffs in the south, stony arid plains in the east and a lush forest to the west. The Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth, at around 420 metres below sea level, and the water here is nearly ten times saltier than the ocean, making it difficult to swim but very easy to float. Jordan is also virtually landlocked, apart from a 16-mile stretch of coast along the Gulf of Aqaba in the far south.
Is Jordan good for solo travel?
Solo travel in Jordan is a rewarding choice for adventurous types, with plenty of vibrant cities, ancient sites and dramatic landscapes to explore. Its small size and good road infrastructure make it easy to cover a lot of ground, taking just four hours to travel from Amman in the central north to Aqaba in the south. On a week-long trip, you can take in all the major highlights, including Petra, Wadi Rum and the Red Sea.
Jordanian women enjoy much more freedom than in neighboring Middle Eastern countries, and female solo travelers should feel comfortable, too. But if you’d feel more at ease exploring as part of a group, Flash Pack’s 8-day Untold Jordan trip is packed full of handpicked activities that will immerse you in the local culture and landscapes, including jeep rides, secret hikes and unique desert glampsites.
Best places to visit in Jordan
What should you do on a solo trip to Jordan? From Amman, a modern city with a youthful buzz, to the classical Jerash ruins with extensive Greco-Roman temples and Byzantine churches, to Petra and the colossal remnant of the Nabataean Kingdom, there’s a wealth of things to see and do.
On Flash Pack’s Untold Jordan trip, you’ll combine some of these big hitters with bespoke experiences that immerse you in the local culture. You’ll begin your journey in the capital and on the shores of the Dead Sea. Then, depending on the time of year, you’ll either stay in an ecolodge on the edge of a biosphere reserve or go canyoning in Wadi Mujib. You’ll also take a secret passage into Petra and meet a Bedouin family, race through sand dunes on desert jeeps and snorkel in the coral-rich Red Sea.
Where to stay as a solo traveler in Jordan
What are hotels like for solo travel in Jordan? You’ll find a full range, from five-stars to family-run guesthouses and authentic Bedouin camps. Popular areas such as Amman, Petra and Aqaba have the widest choice, while the Dead Sea spa resorts are some of the finest in the world. Jordan has a number of excellent eco lodges, too, including the award-winning Feynan Ecolodge on the edge of the Dana Biosphere Reserve. You’ll also find some unique glamping options from luxury tents to futuristic domes – the perfect way to experience comfort under the desert skies.
Accommodation in Jordan offers a wide variety for solo travelers. When you travel as part of a Flash Pack group, you’ll have the added option to share a room and save on the single supplement, meaning you can afford to splash out at places that might otherwise be beyond your budget. If you’d rather have your own space, that’s fine, too.
How to get to Jordan
The easiest way to kick off a solo trip to Jordan is by plane. Most international flights arrive in Ammam’s Queen Alia International Airport, 30 kilometres outside of the capital, with direct flights from Europe and North America. Travellers from Australasia can fly via Bangkok, Dubai or Abu Dhabi. There are also a few direct flights from Europe and Egypt to the Red Sea town of Aqaba.
Traveling overland to Jordan is also straightforward, with convenient border crossings from Israel and Egypt. Alternatively, you can travel from Egypt to Aqaba on a one-hour ferry across the Red Sea. However, arriving in a new country can be daunting for solo travelers. With Flash Pack, airport transfers are included in the price and, once you’ve collected your luggage, private transfers will take you directly to your hotel so you can enjoy a relaxing start to your trip.
How to get around Jordan
Public transport in Jordan is limited and mainly geared up for locals. Minibuses and air-conditioned coaches tend to depart when full, rather than adhering to a timetable, which can mean waiting around, especially on less-traveled routes. There are some tourist buses available for independent travelers, however, many visitors choose to rent a car or hire a private driver. Roads are in good condition, although do be aware of unmarked speed bumps, potholes and drifting sand.
If you’d rather not have to worry about getting from A to B, experiencing solo travel in Jordan as part of a Flash Pack group means all domestic travel is taken care of. You’ll have a private air-conditioned minibus and a local driver, so you can sit back and enjoy the epic scenery.
Best time to visit Jordan
The majority of Jordan has an arid desert climate, however, a Mediterranean climate prevails in the north and west of the country. The best time to visit depends on where you’re going and what you want to do.
For hiking and other activities, spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) are pleasant, when days are warm (in the 20s) and the nights are cool. Summer (June to August) is a good time for relaxing by the beach but can be uncomfortably hot, with temperatures reaching 40°C. In winter (November to February), Jordan experiences snow and the nights can be cold, particularly in the desert. Most rain falls during the winter but showers are usually short and sharp.
Jordan travel itineraries
Flash Pack’s 8-day Untold Jordan trip is designed specifically for solo travelers. As part of a group, you’ll be able to enjoy experiences that would be difficult to arrange by yourself. We’re talking: a canyoning adventure through the Wadi Mujib, led by an expert guide; hiking a 15 kilometre secret ‘back door’ route to Petra; and enjoying a dramatic jeep ride through the Wadi Rum before sleeping out under the stars at a luxury desert camp.
You’ll also sample authentic Jordanian food at a top restaurant in Amman and experience weightlessness in the Dead Sea. You’ll end your trip with a chance to snorkel some of Aqaba’s finest coral reefs, before watching the sunset over the Red Sea. What better way to end a solo trip to Jordan?
What to pack for solo travel in Jordan
What you take will depend on the time of year that you’ll be traveling. During the summer months (May to October), you’ll need lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the soaring temperatures. In winter (November to April), you’ll need thicker layers for the chilly desert evenings. Packing some warmer tops and a light jacket will help make sure you’re prepared. Supportive hiking shoes, preferably with ankle support, are best if you’re planning to take to the peaks. Don’t forget your swimwear for the hotel pools, as well as the Dead Sea and Red Sea. And you’ll want a sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen all year round as the sun can be very strong.
Solo travel advice for Jordan
Jordan is one of the safest and most progressive countries in the Middle East but you’ll still need to be mindful of cultural differences. As with any Muslim country, solo female travelers might prefer to dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention. Generally, it’s a good idea to keep your shoulders and knees covered, especially at religious sites. This also has the added benefit of keeping the sun and insects off of your skin. If you feel more comfortable in shorts and T-shirts, they are fine as long as they are not too revealing or low cut.
Traveling with Flash Pack offers added security, especially when venturing off the beaten track. Your expert local guide will take you beyond the obvious sights, bringing your trip to life through their knowledge and expertize.
Is it safe to travel solo in Jordan?
Thousands of visitors experience solo travel to Jordan every year and most trips are trouble-free. However, do check out the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (UK), the Department of State Travel Advisories (US) or your country’s local government guidelines for the latest advice before traveling. Once there, follow local advice and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Jordan is a politically stable, tolerant and generally relaxed country. However, it’s not advisable to travel to certain areas, such as the borders with Syria or Iraq. Most people speak English and are friendly and willing to help as much as they can. Solo female travelers may find themselves a figure of curiosity. As with anywhere, avoid walking alone at night or in isolated areas. For added safety and security, why not travel as part of a Flash Pack group with other like-minded solo travelers.
Ready for your next adventure? Try group solo travel to Jordan with Flash Pack – designed exclusively for people in their 30s and 40s, seeking the independence of solo travel within the safety of a group.
A cool 98% of Flashpackers arrive solo to join our group adventures. So, you’ll be in good company – whether a first time solo traveler or a seasoned pro looking for like-minded new friends.
Images: Flash Pack
