How To Travel Around Jordan Transportation Guide
Choosing the best way to travel around Jordan can make or break your trip. Jordan is compact and safe, but its top sights are spread out—so smart transportation planning is essential. Whether you’re planning travel, sightseeing, holidays, vacations, packages, tours, honeymoons, group tours, or private tours, this guide compares every option to help you build efficient itineraries, streamline travel arrangements, and secure great tours booking and travel deals.
Quick Answer: What’s the Best Way?
For most visitors—especially first-timers—the best way to travel around Jordan is with a private driver or an organized tour. These options save time, simplify logistics, and provide local insight. Self-driving works well for confident travelers, while public transport is limited for tourist routes.
Option 1: Private Driver with Guide (Best Overall)
Hiring a private driver (often with a licensed guide) is the most popular and efficient way to see Jordan.
Why It Works
- Door-to-door convenience between cities
- Flexible pacing for photography and breaks
- Local expertise at major sites
- Ideal for families, couples, and honeymoons in Jordan
This option shines on routes linking Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea—where timing matters.
Best for: Private tours, short trips (5–7 days), stress-free Jordan sightseeing.
Option 2: Organized Group Tours (Best Value)
Group tours bundle transportation, guides, and tickets into one package.
Pros
- Cost-effective
- Fixed schedules and clear inclusions
- Social experience with fellow travelers
Cons
- Less flexibility
- Fixed start times and routes
Group tours are excellent for classic itineraries and popular in Jordan vacation packages.
Best for: Budget travelers, solo travelers, first-time visitors.
Option 3: Self-Driving in Jordan (Flexible but Requires Confidence)
Renting a car offers independence and scenic freedom—especially on highways.
What to Know
- Roads between cities are generally good
- City driving in Amman can be hectic
- Parking near attractions can be limited
- Navigation apps are reliable
Self-driving suits travelers with 7+ days who enjoy planning and want flexibility without guides.
Best for: Confident drivers, longer stays, photographers.
Option 4: Taxis & Ride-Hailing (Short Distances)
Taxis and ride-hailing apps work well within cities, particularly Amman.
Limitations
- Expensive for intercity travel
- Negotiation sometimes required
- Not ideal for multi-stop days
Best for: Airport transfers, short urban trips.
Option 5: Public Transport (Not Recommended for Sightseeing)
Buses and minibuses exist but aren’t designed for tourists.
Challenges
- Infrequent schedules
- Poor connections to major attractions
- Language barriers
Public transport can work for locals or backpackers with time—but it’s not the best choice for packed sightseeing plans.
Best for: Very budget-focused travelers with flexible schedules.
Traveling Between Jordan’s Top Destinations
Amman ↔ Petra
- Best: Private driver or tour (3–4 hours)
- Alternative: Self-drive via Desert Highway or King’s Highway
Petra ↔ Wadi Rum
- Best: Tour transfer or private driver
- Note: Wadi Rum requires local Bedouin jeeps inside the protected area
Wadi Rum ↔ Dead Sea
- Best: Private transfer (long but scenic)
- Tip: Combine with a rest stop
Dead Sea ↔ Aqaba
- Best: Private transfer or self-drive (coastal views)
Efficient routing is key to comfortable Jordan itineraries.
Which Option Is Best by Travel Style?
- First-time visitors: Private driver or group tour
- Families & couples: Private tours
- Honeymoons: Private tours with boutique hotels
- Budget travelers: Group tours in Jordan
- Independent explorers: Self-drive (with planning)
Matching transport to travel style improves comfort and value.
Cost Comparison: What Offers the Best Value?
- Private driver: Higher upfront cost, best time savings
- Group tour: Strong value with inclusions
- Self-drive: Car + fuel + parking + tickets add up
- Taxis: Costly between cities
Bundled Jordan travel packages often beat à la carte booking—especially in peak seasons.
Practical Tips for Getting Around Jordan
- Start sightseeing early in summer
- Book Wadi Rum jeeps in advance
- Choose hotels near Petra’s entrance
- Carry cash for tips and small stops
- Work with licensed operators for reliability
These tips streamline travel arrangements and tours booking.
Final Verdict: The Best Way to Travel Around Jordan
For most travelers, a private driver or an organized tour is the best way to travel around Jordan—balancing comfort, efficiency, and insight. Self-driving is a solid alternative for confident planners, while public transport is best avoided for sightseeing-heavy trips.
Choose the option that fits your pace, budget, and interests—and Jordan will reward you with unforgettable experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to travel around Jordan?
Hiring a private driver or booking an organized tour is the easiest and most efficient way to see Jordan’s top sights.
Is it safe to self-drive in Jordan?
Yes. Roads are generally good, but city driving can be busy. Confident drivers do well with careful planning.
Can I use public transport to visit Petra and Wadi Rum?
It’s possible but inconvenient. Tours or private transfers are far more practical for these destinations.
Are group tours worth it in Jordan?
Yes. Group tours offer strong value with transportation, guides, and tickets included—ideal for first-time visitors.
What’s the best option for a short Jordan trip?
Private tours or a driver-guide combo maximize sightseeing time and minimize logistics on short itineraries.
