Stories of Discovery & Wonder

Best of Southern Jordan: 5-Day Aqaba to Petra, Wadi Rum & Dead Sea Adventure

This five-day circuit from Aqaba stitches together Wadi Rum’s desert vistas, the carved streets of Petra, and the buoyant Dead Sea. Expect Bedouin hospitality, jeep rides, a guided Petra visit, and restful hotel nights.

Aqaba, Aqaba Governorate•

5 days

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

Sand shifts underfoot and the wind writes new lines across sandstone as travelers move from the Red Sea coast into the wide, silent theatre of Southern Jordan.

Before You Go

Hydrate Frequently

Carry at least 2–3 liters of water per day; refill where provided—desert heat and walking dehydrate quickly.

Sun Protection

Bring a wide-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and sunglasses; shade is scarce across Wadi Rum and Petra’s open sections.

Sturdy Footwear

Wear closed-toe hiking shoes with good tread for rocky paths in Petra and uneven desert sand in Wadi Rum.

Border & Visa Docs

Have passports and any required visas or entry documents ready at the Aqaba/Eilat border to avoid delays.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) for quieter Nabatean carvings
•A short stop on the King’s Highway for panoramic valley viewpoints away from main crowds

Wildlife

•Nubian ibex
•Red fox (desert fox)

Conservation Note

Water scarcity and fragile desert soils make staying on tracks and carrying out waste essential; support local guides to channel tourism benefits to Bedouin communities.

The route follows trade corridors once controlled by the Nabateans; Petra’s rose sandstone facades and Wadi Rum’s inscriptions record millennia of human passage.

What to Bring

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Sturdy hiking shoesEssential

Protects ankles on rocky steps in Petra and provides traction on sandy jeep tracks.

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Daypack with hydration bladderEssential

Keeps water, snacks, and sun gear accessible during jeep tours and walks.

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Light insulating layerEssential

Warmth for desert mornings and cold Bedouin nights at camp.

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Wide-brim hat & sunscreenEssential

Essential protection from intense sun across exposed desert and coastal sections.

Common Questions

Do I need a visa for Jordan at the Aqaba border?

Some nationalities qualify for visa waiver on arrival through Aqaba; check current Jordanian entry rules before travel and have passport details ready.

What is the Bedouin camp like?

The included camp is basic—simple bedding, communal dining and open-air facilities—comfortable enough for most travelers but not luxury-level.

Is floating in the Dead Sea included and safe?

Access to the Dead Sea is included; floating is safe if you avoid swallowing water and don’t shave immediately beforehand to prevent irritation.

Are transfers and entrance fees covered?

Yes—transfers, entrance fees for Petra and Wadi Rum, and listed hotel nights are included as described, but visas and some optional activities (like camel rides) are extra.