Jordan 2026: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea — Why Searches Are Exploding (+50%) and the Perfect 7-Day Itinerary

The situation in March 2026: stay informed

According to the US Embassy in Jordan, Jordan itself recorded only 28 injuries and no fatalities during the initial strikes. Tourist infrastructure continues to operate normally in major tourist areas. However, the regional situation remains volatile and can change without warning.

Areas to avoid entirely

• Jordanian-Syrian and Jordanian-Iraqi border areas
• Towns of Mansheyat al Ghayyath and Ruwayshid
• Any political gatherings or demonstrations

Recommendations if you are planning a trip

• Check your government’s official alerts right up to your departure date
• Book flexible flights and refundable accommodation
• Register your details with your embassy
• Take out travel insurance covering cancellations for geopolitical risk
• Prepare an evacuation plan with at least two exit routes

A historic tourism boom

In just the first two weeks of January 2026, 76,054 visits were recorded across Jordanian historic sites, including 15,244 at Petra alone, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. In 2025, Jordan welcomed 7.04 million visitors, generating revenue up 7.6% to reach a record 5,523 million Jordanian dinars.

Several factors explain this growing appeal. First, improved air connectivity: new low-cost routes now serve Amman from London, Paris and several other European cities. Second, Jordan is diversifying its tourism offering: from Bedouin camps to bubble domes under the stars at Wadi Rum, Dead Sea wellness retreats to wild trekking in Dana.

The jewel of Nabataean antiquity

Petra is one of the most impressive archaeological wonders in the world. This 60 km² complex contains the Nabataean city carved into rose-red sandstone, with its tombs, temples, palaces and the iconic Khazneh (Treasury), revealed at the end of a spectacular 1.2 km gorge called the Siq. According to Responsible Vacation, travellers « enter the city through the spectacular Siq canyon before reaching the iconic Treasury monument — an immersive journey through Nabataean history ».

In 2026, Petra leads Jordan’s visitor rankings with 15,244 visits in the first two weeks of January alone. The site now benefits from improved visitor services, enriched guided experiences and tailored cultural tours.

Must-see highlights

• The Siq and the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) — the iconic entrance
• The Monastery (Ad-Deir) — 800 steps, worth every one
• Petra by Night — once a week, candles and music
• Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) — 13 km away, far fewer crowds

The otherworldly landscapes of the Jordanian desert

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wadi Rum — also known as the Valley of the Moon — is Jordan’s largest valley and one of the most dramatic desert landscapes on the planet. From natural arches to red sandstone cliffs, from endless dunes to Bedouin camps beneath the stars, this place served as the backdrop for Lawrence of Arabia, The Martian and Rogue One. According to Nomadic Matt, « spending a night in a Bedouin camp is highly recommended — there is nothing quite like sleeping in the desert under the vast open sky ».

In 2026, glamping options have exploded: bubble domes with transparent ceilings allow you to stargaze from your bed, for a magical experience between sky and sand.

Essential activities

• Guided 4×4 safari with a local Bedouin guide (half-day: ~37 JOD/person)
• Night in a Bedouin camp (dinner + breakfast included: ~45 JOD)
• Rock climbing on red sandstone cliffs
• Sandboarding on the golden dunes

The most unique floating experience in the world

The Dead Sea, at −430 metres below sea level, is the lowest point on Earth. Its salt concentration — ten times that of the oceans — creates buoyancy so extreme that staying submerged is impossible. Visitors float effortlessly, book or phone in hand, in a moment that is simultaneously surreal and deeply relaxing. The unique mineral composition of its waters and the increased atmospheric pressure create a natural wellness environment recognised for centuries.

Essential Dead Sea tips

• Bring fresh water to rinse off after swimming
• Water shoes are essential (salt crystals on the shore are sharp)
• Do not shave 24 hours before to avoid stinging
• Avoid swimming if you have any cuts or open wounds

Two thousand years of history in one day

Amman, the capital of seven hills, consistently surprises visitors with its cosmopolitan energy. The Jordan Museum, which recorded 11,812 visits in the first two weeks of January 2026, houses the Dead Sea Scrolls and the 9,000-year-old Ain Ghazal statues. Rainbow Street is the city’s bohemian heart: art galleries, speciality coffee shops and restaurants reinventing Levantine cuisine.

Jerash, 48 km north of Amman, is dubbed the « Pompeii of the East ». Its remarkably preserved colonnaded streets, triumphal arches, hippodrome and Roman theatres rank among the greatest Roman ruins outside Italy, yet the experience remains infinitely less crowded than European Roman forums.

7 days to see the essentials

In just seven days, it is possible to explore Amman, walk through the wonders of Petra, experience the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and float in the mineral waters of the Dead Sea. According to Jordan Experience, this is the ideal balance between cultural richness and natural adventure.

Three levels, one truth: Jordan is accessible

The Jordan Pass (from 70 JOD, ~£60) is the single most important purchase to make before you leave. It includes visa exemption (provided you stay a minimum of 3 nights) and entry to over 40 sites, including Petra (50 JOD/day without the pass). According to Petra Budget Guide 2026, « visiting just three additional sites after Petra recoups the entire cost of the pass ».

Flights from London to Amman are available from around £260 return (prices observed on Aviasales, March 2026 data — prices vary).

Flights, entry requirements and formalities

Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman is the main gateway. Several airlines operate direct flights from London Heathrow and Gatwick, including Royal Jordanian and British Airways. Connecting flights via Istanbul or Dubai often offer better prices. Low-cost options operate from other UK airports.