In August 2021, I took my very first trip to the Middle East—and like many good adventures, it wasn’t exactly planned months in advance. Quite the opposite, actually.
After being named to The Points Guy’s Travel Advisory Panel, I was given a $5,000 stipend to travel anywhere in the world. It was one of those “use it or lose it” situations, where the details and restrictions around the funds changed so frequently that I knew I had to act fast. So I did what I always do when I need a reset or an inspiration boost:
I booked the flight first, and figured out the rest later.
I didn’t know much about Jordan at the time. In fact, Türkiye had been higher on my list. But something about the Hashemite Kingdom called to me—perhaps a whisper from Petra, a nudge from the Dead Sea, or a distant echo from the desert. A few weeks later, I found myself flying into Amman on one of the most unexpectedly magical trips of my life.
Here’s how I spent 10 days in Jordan as a solo female traveler, and why I’d recommend it to anyone seeking adventure, culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Day 1: Welcome to Amman
The flight to Jordan took about 11 hours with a layover—I flew from Miami to Amman via Doha on Qatar Airways. As soon as I landed, the hospitality began. A representative was waiting to greet me, fast-track me through customs, and help me with logistics.
Outside the airport, my private driver—arranged with help from the Jordan Tourism Board—was waiting to whisk me away to my first accommodation: the Marriott Amman.
After checking in, I met with the hotel manager for tea, which was a lovely way to ease into the cultural warmth that defines Jordanian hospitality. I didn’t push myself to explore too much that day—jet lag is real, and I wanted to be fresh for the days ahead.
Day 2: Women’s Co-op & Petra at Night
The next morning, I hit the ground running.
We started the day with a visit to the Iraq Al-Amir Women’s Cooperative, located just outside of Amman. This social enterprise empowers local women to earn income through traditional crafts—think handwoven textiles, ceramics, and handmade paper. I sat with the women, shared tea, and marveled at their resilience and creativity.
From there, we hit the road to Petra—about a 3.5-hour drive south. Jordan is a small country, and getting from city to city is relatively quick. I checked into the Petra Marriott Hotel, which sits atop a hill overlooking the rose-red city.
That night, I experienced the “Petra by Night” tour, an ethereal candlelit walk through the Siq to the Treasury. Hundreds of lanterns lit our path, and traditional Bedouin music echoed against the stone. It was hauntingly beautiful and set the tone for the magic to come.
Day 3: The Full Petra Experience
Petra deserves more than just a quick photo op.
I woke up early and gave myself a full day to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. Starting from the Siq (the narrow gorge leading into Petra), I passed the iconic Treasury, hiked to the Monastery, and marveled at the Royal Tombs, the Street of Facades, and more.
Petra is massive—wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and expect to do 10+ miles of walking if you want to see it all. Alternatively, you can ride a donkey from the Treasury to the Monastery as it is a very steep climb.
That evening, I joined a Bedouin cooking experience back at the hotel. I learned how to make shrak, a traditional paper-thin bread, and enjoyed a Zarb dinner—meats and vegetables slow-cooked in an underground BBQ pit.
As the sun set over the mountains, casting golden hues over the sandstone, I felt fully immersed in a different world.
Day 4: Desert Dreams in Wadi Rum
From the canyons of Petra, we journeyed into the vast Martian landscapes of Wadi Rum.
I checked into Memories Aicha Luxury Camp, and let me tell you, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like royalty. Because the protected desert area only allows local Bedouin operators to run accommodations, everything here feels authentic and rooted in heritage.
On the way in, I took a jeep tour of the desert, visiting filming locations for Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars: Rogue One, climbing dunes, and spotting ancient petroglyphs carved into stone walls.
At night, the camp transformed into a galaxy observatory. With no internet or light pollution, I could clearly see the Milky Way cloud arching across the sky.
The owner drove guests out to a clear spot to take professional photos guests under the stars as a complimentary souvenir.
RELATED POST: A REVIEW OF MEMORIES AICHA LUXURY CAMP
Day 5: Stillness & Stargazing
This was a rest day—but not the kind you get in a spa.
Instead, I climbed the mountain ridge right behind the camp to catch a bird’s-eye view of the entire Wadi Rum valley. The hike was optional but worth it—views like these stay with you long after your tan fades.
There was no internet, no notifications, no pressure. Just the wind, the red sand, and me. At night, I wrapped myself in a blanket, laid under my glass dome, and watched satellites and shooting stars streak across the sky. It was pure peace.
Day 6: Arrival at the Dead Sea
Leaving the desert behind, I journeyed to one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world: the Dead Sea.
I checked into the Marriott Dead Sea Resort, which sits right on the salty shoreline.
That evening, I dined at the hotel’s restaurant while enjoying a live belly dancing performance—a lively reminder that even in stillness, Jordan has rhythm.
Day 7: Float, Soak, Heal
This day was all about healing.
Swimming in the Dead Sea is unlike anything else. The salinity is so high that you don’t actually “swim”—you float. Effortlessly. But here’s a pro tip: do not shave your legs beforehand. The minerals will sting like crazy.
I covered myself in mineral-rich Dead Sea mud, let it dry in the sun, and rinsed off in the sea. My skin felt like silk afterward.
The resort also has a saltwater pool, spa treatments, and several restaurants, so I leaned into a full day of relaxation.
Day 8: Nature Preserves & Holy Sites
Early the next morning, I headed to Wadi Mujib, the lowest nature preserve on Earth.
The Siq Trail here is a water hike—yes, a hike through water that leads you upstream to a stunning waterfall.
You will get soaked. You will need water shoes. And you will love every minute.
After drying off and grabbing lunch, we continued to Bethany Beyond the Jordan, believed to be the baptism site of Jesus Christ.
This sacred spot is included in the Jordan Pass, and it’s both historically and spiritually moving. You can even take home holy water from the Jordan River as a unique souvenir.
Day 9: A Final Day in Amman
Back in Amman for my final full day, I had the chance to explore a bit more of the capital.
Highlights here include:
- The Citadel – offering panoramic views and ancient Roman ruins.
- The Roman Theater – still used today for performances.
- Rainbow Street – filled with cafes, local shops, and murals.
- Hashem Restaurant – serving the best falafel and hummus in town.
If you’re into culture, Amman also has great museums, like the Jordan Museum and the Royal Automobile Museum.
It’s a laid-back but lively city that feels both ancient and modern.
Day 10: Departure
Like all great trips, this one came to an end far too soon.
But I left Jordan feeling full—full of memories, stories, and a renewed sense of awe at what the world has to offer when you follow your gut and book the ticket.
Solo Female Safety in Jordan
As a solo female traveler, I felt incredibly safe throughout my entire time in Jordan.
The country is known for its hospitality, and locals are often eager to help, especially when they hear you’re visiting from abroad.
That said, there are a few things you can do to feel even more secure—especially if it’s your first time in the Middle East.
If you’re nervous about navigating on your own, I recommend hiring a private driver or local guide.
It removes the stress of logistics, gives you a cultural insider to answer questions, and ensures you always have someone to check in with.
I worked with a driver coordinated through the Jordan Tourism Board, and it made all the difference.
If you’re feeling more independent, driving in Jordan is very doable, especially outside of Amman.
Once you leave the capital, the highways are wide open, the signage is clear, and traffic is minimal.
Just be mindful of the occasional speed bump and free-roaming livestock in rural areas.
Overall, trust your instincts, be aware of your surroundings, and don’t be afraid to say “no” or walk away from any situation that doesn’t feel right—just like you would anywhere else in the world.
Tips for Solo Female Travelers in Jordan
- Jordan Pass: This pass covers visa fees and most major site entries—highly recommend purchasing it in advance.
- Transportation: I had a private driver arranged through the tourism board, but you can also rent a car or use local tours.
- Timing: I went in August/September, which is hot, but not unbearable if you stay hydrated. Spring and fall are more temperate.
- Connectivity: Don’t expect strong Wi-Fi in the desert—but that’s kind of the point.
What to Wear as a Woman in Jordan
Jordan is a moderate, Muslim-majority country, and while it’s not as conservative as some of its neighbors, modesty is still appreciated, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
As a general rule, I wore:
- Loose-fitting pants or maxi skirts
- T-shirts or blouses with sleeves (cap or longer)
- A scarf (not mandatory for tourists, but handy for visiting mosques or just blending in)
You don’t need to cover your hair unless you’re entering a religious building, but having a light scarf in your bag is a good idea.
Swimwear is fine at hotel pools and the Dead Sea, especially at international resorts like the Marriott. Outside of those settings, it’s best to opt for modest swimwear or a cover-up.
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and layers for cooler desert evenings round out the essentials. And if you’re visiting in summer, go for breathable fabrics like linen or cotton—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
Final Thoughts
Jordan wasn’t on the top of my list, but now it’s on the top of my heart.
From the red sands of Wadi Rum to the depths of the Dead Sea, from ancient cities to modern co-ops, it offered a powerful mix of culture, history, and hospitality that left me transformed.
If you’re considering a solo trip, let this be your sign: book the flight. The rest will work itself out.
And who knows? You just might end up on the trip of a lifetime—like I did.
Have you been to Jordan or are you planning a trip? Let me know in the comments below—and feel free to share or pin this itinerary to inspire your own Jordan adventure!
