5 Day Tour: Amman Petra Jerash Mount Nebo Karak Castle Wadi Rum Red & Dead Sea

Exploring Jordan in Five Days: A Complete Guide to the 5 Day Tour of Amman, Petra, and More

Taking a week-long trip through Jordan might seem ambitious, but with this carefully curated 5-day private tour, travelers can tick off the country’s most iconic sights without feeling rushed. From the bustling streets of Amman to the ancient wonder of Petra, the rugged beauty of Wadi Rum, and the tranquil Dead Sea, this journey offers a well-rounded taste of what makes Jordan so special.

What we love about this experience is its balance of guided sightseeing and free time, the inclusion of authentic Bedouin camping, and the opportunity to explore at your own pace within a structured itinerary. Plus, the private air-conditioned transport and the presence of a knowledgeable guide ensure comfort and insider insights.

One possible consideration is that entry fees to sites are not included, so travelers should budget accordingly. Also, since the trip covers many locations in just five days, you’ll need to be prepared for long days on the road with early starts and late finishes.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers who want an authentic experience with flexibility. It’s perfect if you’re looking to maximize your time in Jordan with a mix of guided tours and personal discovery.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Amman, Jerash, Mount Nebo, Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea.
• Expert Guides & Private Transport: Enjoy insights from local guides in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Authentic Experiences: Overnight in a Bedouin camp, with dinner and breakfast included.
• Flexible & Well-Organized: Well-paced days with a good mix of sightseeing, meals, and free time.
• Cost Considerations: Entry fees are not included, so budget for these separately.
• Travel Ease: Pickup and drop-off included, making logistics smooth for travelers.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Amman City Tour

Your journey begins in Amman, Jordan’s lively capital. Starting at around 8 am, the guide will take you through major sites like the Roman Theater and the Citadel, both offering panoramic views of the city and a glance into the Roman influence that still echoes through Jordan. The visit to the Auto Mobile Museum adds a quirky touch for those interested in vintage cars and local history.

One thing to note from reviews is how our guides make this city tour engaging and insightful. A guest remarked, “Our driver Zakaria was absolutely perfect. He took great care of us and had attention for every need we had,” which highlights the importance of a friendly, attentive guide right from the start.

Day 2: Umm Qais & Jerash

Day two is dedicated to exploring the northern ruins of Umm Qais and the famous Roman city of Jerash. Starting at 8 am again, you’ll visit Umm Qais around 10 am, where the view of the Sea of Galilee (visible on clear days) and the ancient ruins provide a striking landscape. After a lunch break, the tour continues with Jerash, often called the “Pompeii of the East,” with its well-preserved colonnaded streets and impressive theaters.

Travelers consistently praise the smooth organization and knowledgeable guides. One reviewer shared, “The tour was amazing, very well organized and full of surprises,” adding that the attention to detail made the day memorable.

Day 3: Petra, Mount Nebo & Karak Castle

The highlight for most will be Petra, the UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. After departing early, you’ll stop at Madaba and Mount Nebo, where Moses is believed to have glimpsed the Promised Land. The panoramic views and mosaics here are captivating.

Next, the journey includes a visit to Karak Castle, a formidable fortress set on a hilltop offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Passing through Wadi Al-Mujib along the King’s Way adds a scenic drive to the adventure.

By early afternoon, you arrive at Little Petra—a quieter but equally intriguing site that often gets overlooked but offers excellent photo opportunities. Guests frequently mention how the guide’s storytelling enriches the experience, making the ancient stones come alive.

Day 4: Wadi Rum & Bedouin Camping

Day four is dedicated to the desert landscape of Wadi Rum, often called the “Valley of the Moon,” and the experience of staying overnight in a Bedouin camp. Pickup begins in the early morning, with a self-guided tour at Petra in the morning, freeing you to soak in the scenery at your own pace.

Arriving in Wadi Rum around 4 pm, you’ll embark on a Jeep safari tour (two hours included), visiting rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and dramatic valleys. The sunset in Wadi Rum is consistently praised for its breathtaking colors, with one reviewer noting, “Enjoying the sunset activity at one of the sunset sites was an unforgettable moment.”

Dinner is traditional Bedouin style, featuring chicken, grilled vegetables, and salads, served under the stars. The experience of sleeping in a tent inside the desert adds an authentic touch you won’t find in hotels.

Day 5: Dead Sea & Return to Amman

The final day takes you to the Dead Sea for some well-deserved relaxation and floating experience. After breakfast, a jeep tour in Wadi Rum is followed by a drive to the Dead Sea area around 10 am, where guests can float effortlessly in the salty waters and enjoy the mineral-rich mud.

Since Aqaba is skipped in winter due to shorter daylight hours, this part of the journey is replaced with more Dead Sea time, giving you a chance to unwind and take in the peaceful scenery. The day wraps up with a return drive to Amman, with an expected arrival around 7 pm.

What’s Included and What’s Not? Analyzing the Value

The tour includes two nights in Amman, one in Petra, and one overnight in a Bedouin camp—all with breakfast, which adds comfort and convenience. The private vehicle with an English-speaking driver means you’ll avoid the hassle of public transport and get local insights along the way.

The 2-hour Jeep Safari in Wadi Rum with bottled water offers an authentic desert experience, which many reviews highlight as a trip highlight. Guests appreciated the professionalism of guides like Ahmad and Zakaria, who made sure everyone was comfortable and engaged.

However, entry fees to sites are not included, so you’ll want to purchase a Jordan Pass or budget for tickets to Petra, Jerash, and other sites. The cost of meals, personal expenses, and travel insurance are also separate considerations.

About the Accommodation and Meals

Guests consistently praise the comfortable hotels in Amman and Petra, as well as the unique Bedouin camp experience, which many say adds a layer of cultural authenticity. The included breakfasts are usually simple but satisfying, and the dinner in Wadi Rum is a highlight, offering traditional Bedouin cuisine.

Transport & Timing

Traveling in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long drives between sites. The itinerary is carefully timed to maximize sightseeing while allowing for some rest, though early starts and late finishes mean you should be prepared for a busy schedule.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 5-day Jordan tour provides an excellent overview of the country’s top attractions in a manageable schedule. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors who want a guided, hassle-free experience covering a lot of ground. The inclusion of Bedouin camping adds a touch of adventure and culture.

Travelers who value expert guides and comfortable transportation will find this tour well worth the cost, especially considering the depth of sites covered. It’s a good fit for those with moderate physical fitness, as there are some walking and climbing involved at sites like Petra and Mount Nebo.

If you’re after a more relaxed pace or an in-depth exploration of specific sites, you might want to consider extending your trip or customizing parts of this itinerary. But for an immersive, well-organized introduction to Jordan’s highlights, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Are entry fees to sites included in the tour?
No, entry fees are not included. It’s recommended to purchase a Jordan Pass beforehand to cover many of these costs and streamline entry into major sites.

Does the tour include meals?
No, meals are not included except for breakfast at hotels and the dinner in Wadi Rum. Guests usually find the food delicious and authentic, especially the Bedouin dinner.

What type of vehicle is used?
A private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during long drives, with space for the entire group.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Keep in mind the early starts and walking at sites like Petra.

How many people are in the group?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, making for a personalized experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility, especially if booked in advance. Feel free to ask your guide about specific interests.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
Most of the sites are accessible year-round, but note that Aqaba is skipped during winter months due to shorter daylight hours.

What’s the overnight accommodation like?
Guests stay in comfortable hotels in Amman and Petra, with an authentic Bedouin camp experience in Wadi Rum.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, as it’s private. It offers the chance to explore Jordan comfortably, even solo, with a guide and private transport.

To sum it up, this 5-day private Jordan tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that balances sightseeing with culture. It’s perfect for those who want to see the highlights without the fuss, and who enjoy guided comfort paired with a taste of adventure. Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, desert landscapes, or floating in the Dead Sea, this trip delivers a memorable journey through Jordan’s most iconic sights.