Best Road Trips in Jordan: Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, and More

Jordan is a country made for road trips. Its compact size, coupled with breathtaking historical sites and natural wonders, makes it a paradise for travelers who love the freedom of the open road. From the biblical sites in the north to the coral reefs in the south, here are the best itineraries for your Jordanian rental car adventure.

Route: Amman -> Jerash -> Dead Sea -> Kerak -> Petra -> Wadi Rum -> Aqaba -> Amman.

This itinerary covers all the major highlights. Spend a day exploring the Roman ruins of Jerash before heading down to the Dead Sea to float. Continue south via the King's Highway for the best views. For the best rates on cars for this long-distance loop, visit our car rental in Jordan page.

Route: Amman -> Salt -> Ajloun -> Umm Qais -> Pella -> Amman.

Explore the greenest part of Jordan. Visit the Ottoman architecture of Salt, the medieval castle of Ajloun, and the stunning Greco-Roman ruins of Umm Qais overlooking the Sea of Galilee.

• GPS is Essential: Download offline maps (like Google Maps) as data coverage can be spotty in the deep canyons.
• Hydration and Snacks: While there are plenty of stops, having your own supplies is always wise for the desert sections.

Which car is best for a Jordan road trip?

A mid-size SUV is the ideal balance of comfort, luggage space, and power for the mountain climbs. However, a standard sedan is perfectly capable of handling 95% of the tourist routes.

Is one week enough to see Jordan?

One week allows you to see Amman, the Dead Sea, Petra, and Wadi Rum. If you want to include Aqaba and the North, 10-12 days is better.