Top Road Trips in Jordan: Explore History, Culture, and Nature

Exploring Jordan on a road trip affords you access to places unreachable by public transportation, giving you the freedom to choose your own adventure along the way rather than being tied to the timeline of a set tour.

However, driving in Jordan often involves interpreting unwritten rules of the road while navigating congested streets. For those who prefer not to drive, plenty of other ways to get around Jordan exist, from bus rides to hiring a driver.

1. Jordan’s Northern Route

Best Road Trip for History and Culture
Amman–Amman; 250km (155 miles); Allow two days

This two-day road trip begins atop Citadel Hill in the heart of Jordan’s capital. Amman, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, presents artifacts from as far back as the Bronze Age. From this hilltop, enjoy sweeping city views full of history, reflecting the Umayyad, Roman, and Byzantine periods.

Leave Amman behind and head towards the rolling hills of northern Jordan. Stop at Ajloun Castle for panoramic views of the countryside. Enjoy a home-cooked meal at a local restaurant in Orjan before continuing to Umm Qais.

Spend the afternoon touring the Greco-Roman ruins of Gadara. When it’s time for a break, sit on the outdoor patio of Umm Qais Resthouse within the archaeological site. Timing your visit might allow you to catch sunset colors over the Golan Heights and the Sea of Galilee.

On day two, engage in immersive activities such as beekeeping, foraging, or hiking in Yarmouk Forest Reserve before refueling at Galsoum’s Kitchen, the home of a local chef.

The second part of the day is dedicated to Jerash, home to one of the best-preserved Roman cities globally and a significant stop on your drive back to Amman.

Planning tip: Signage is limited at Jerash, so it’s best experienced with a guide who can provide cultural and historical context while leading you around the extraordinary ruins.

2. Driving to the Dead Sea

Best One-Day Road Trip from Amman
Amman–Dead Sea; 68km (42 miles); Allow 3–5 hours

This road trip from Amman offers desert views along the scenic King’s Highway, culminating in a therapeutic session at the Dead Sea. Consider detouring to Madaba to see Byzantine-era mosaics depicting the oldest known map of Palestine flooring St. George’s Church.

Additionally, take a trip up Mt. Nebo, believed to be the site where Moses glimpsed the Promised Land before his death. From this vantage point, view the Jordan River Valley, Dead Sea, and, on clear days, even Jericho and Jerusalem in the distance.

Continue to the Dead Sea, where a variety of hotels provide spa treatments and access to the mineral-rich waters for both overnight and day pass guests.

3. Madaba to Dana Drive on the King’s Highway

Best Road Trip for Castles, Canyons, and Culture
Madaba–Dana; 206km (128 miles); Allow one day

The King’s Highway, an essential trading route for millennia, may not be the quickest option. However, it offers a scenic drive alongside stunning vistas. Drivers seeking the most direct route often choose the Dead Sea Highway or Desert Highway.

Stop by Mukawir Castle for impressive views of the Dead Sea before detouring to the Bani Hamida Weaving Project to purchase handmade souvenirs or participate in a workshop.

Add some adventure with a guided canyoning tour at Wadi Mujib before heading back to the King’s Highway and exploring Karak, one of the largest crusader castles in the Levant. Plan to reach Dana before sunset, enjoying tea while overlooking the stunning landscapes of the Dana Biosphere Reserve.

4. Into the Sands of Wadi Rum

Best for an Off-Road Adventure
Wadi Rum Village–Desert Camp; 70–100km (44–62 miles); Allow two days

With experience off-roading, travelers can embark on a self-drive excursion in Wadi Rum. Follow a Bedouin guide on rust-colored tracks and dunes to a remote campsite. Along the way, appreciate the natural rock bridges, jagged cliffs, and lunar-like landscapes. Share stories and a Bedouin barbecue under the stars for an unforgettable night.

Customize your adventure based on distance, stops, and duration tailored to your interests.

Planning tip: A 4WD vehicle and appropriate off-roading insurance are necessary for this experience. Consider a guided Wadi Rum 4WD tour if you prefer not to drive.

5. All of Jordan, from North to South

The Best Ultimate 10-Day Road Trip
Umm Qais–Aqaba; 595km (370 miles); Allow 10 days

This 10-day route offers an ultimate itinerary for experiencing Jordan’s highlights, from north to south, ensuring an enriching exploration of the country.

Begin with two days hiking trails, wandering Roman ruins, and engaging in local activities in Umm Qais and Jerash. Spend at least 24 hours in Amman exploring ancient sites and artisan shops while tasting the local cuisine.

Marvel at preserved mosaics in Madaba before heading to the Dead Sea for a refreshing overnight stay to enjoy spa treatments, followed by a journey to southern Jordan.

The King’s Highway leads you to Karak Castle before arriving at Dana, where you can relish its unique ecosystem and Bedouin hospitality. Participate in guided hikes across the Dana Biosphere Reserve for unparalleled experiences.

Enjoy a full day trekking through and visiting stone-carved tombs in UNESCO-listed Petra. Complete your adventure in Wadi Rum, where hiking dunes and overnighting in Bedouin camps await, before concluding your Jordan exploration with underwater adventures in Aqaba.

Before You Hit the Road…

Consider these points before embarking on your road trip in Jordan:

• Drive during the day to avoid the challenges of poorly lit roads at night.

• Use GPS, as some areas have limited signage and it’s crucial to have offline maps available.

• Fuel up whenever possible, as there are stretches lacking gas stations.

• Stock up on food and water, especially given the extreme desert conditions.

This article was first published on May 24, 2022, and updated on Nov 30, 2023.