16-Day Ultimate Family Jordan Adventure: History, Desert, and Sea
Jordan is a playground for the imagination, offering families a rare blend of safe adventure, biblical history, and Martian-like landscapes. This 16-day route is designed with a relaxed tempo, ensuring that travel days are balanced with play and relaxation, making it accessible for those traveling with toddlers in strollers or energetic teenagers.
From the bustling, hospitable streets of Amman to the silent, starry nights in Wadi Rum, your family will experience the legendary Bedouin hospitality firsthand. This itinerary prioritizes comfortable intercity transfers and kid-centric activities, ensuring that the 'Epic Journey' remains a joyful experience for every member of the family.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Amman, Jordan - Arrival and Acclimatization
Arrival at Queen Alia International Airport
Complete your visa formalities and pick up your pre-arranged transport. The airport is modern and features family-friendly facilities.
Check-in and Rest
Settle into your hotel in the Shmeisani or Abdali districts, which are central and offer modern amenities for kids.
Evening Stroll in Abdali Boulevard
A pedestrian-only zone perfect for strollers, featuring shops, cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere for your first Jordanian meal.
Dinner at a Local Bakery
Enjoy fresh Manakish (flatbread with za'atar or cheese), a guaranteed hit with children of all ages.
Day 2: Amman, Jordan - Ancient Wonders and City Views
Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal'a)
Explore ruins dating back to the Bronze Age. The site is relatively flat, making it manageable with a sturdy stroller.
Roman Theater
Located in the heart of the city, this 6,000-seat theater is an impressive sight where kids can practice their echoes.
Lunch at Hashem Restaurant
An iconic, casual spot in downtown Amman famous for falafel and hummus. It is fast, loud, and very family-friendly.
Rainbow Street Walk
A colorful street filled with artisan shops and ice cream parlors, perfect for a late afternoon wander.
Day 3: Amman, Jordan - Museums and Play
The Children's Museum Jordan
Located in Al Hussein Public Parks, this museum features over 180 interactive exhibits designed specifically for kids.
Royal Automobile Museum
Right next door to the Children's Museum, this collection of rare cars and motorbikes is a favorite for both kids and adults.
King Abdullah I Mosque
A beautiful blue-domed landmark. Visitors are welcome, and it provides a great opportunity to teach children about local culture.
Al Hussein Park Playtime
Let the kids burn off some energy in the large green spaces of Amman's premier public park.
Day 4: Amman to Jerash, Jordan - The Roman City
Drive to Jerash
A comfortable 50-minute drive north of Amman leads you to one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world.
Exploring Jerash Ruins
Marvel at the Oval Plaza and the Cardo Maximus. Use a baby carrier here as the ancient cobblestones can be tricky for strollers.
Traditional Lunch in Jerash
Enjoy a BBQ lunch at a garden restaurant near the ruins, often featuring outdoor seating perfect for families.
Return to Amman
Head back to the capital for a relaxed evening and a swim in the hotel pool.
Day 5: Amman to Madaba, Jordan - City of Mosaics
Drive to Madaba
A short 45-minute drive south brings you to Madaba, famous for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics.
St. George’s Church
See the famous 6th-century Mosaic Map of the Holy Land. The church is accessible and small enough to not overwhelm children.
Mosaic Workshop
Many local shops offer short demonstrations or workshops where kids can try their hand at placing mosaic tiles.
Mount Nebo
A 15-minute drive from Madaba. View the Promised Land as Moses did. The site is paved and very stroller-friendly.
Day 6: Madaba to Dead Sea, Jordan - Floating Fun
Drive to the Dead Sea
Descend to the lowest point on earth, a scenic 40-minute drive from Mount Nebo.
Resort Check-in
Choose a resort with multiple pools and private beach access for the safest experience with children.
The Floating Experience
Help the kids experience the buoyancy of the water. Note: keep salt water out of their eyes and off any small scratches!
Sunset Dinner
Enjoy a buffet dinner at the resort, offering a wide variety of international and local foods for picky eaters.
Day 7: Dead Sea to Dana, Jordan - Into the Wild
Drive to Dana Biosphere Reserve
A 2.5-hour drive via the scenic King's Highway. The landscapes change dramatically as you head into the mountains.
Dana Village Walk
Explore this 15th-century stone village. It is quiet and car-free, allowing children to roam safely.
Family Nature Hike
Take a guided, easy-level walk along the village rim. The views into the canyon are spectacular and not too strenuous.
Traditional Bedouin Dinner
Eat a home-cooked meal prepared by local villagers, often featuring 'Saj' bread made on an open fire.
Day 8: Dana to Petra, Jordan - Little Petra Discovery
Drive to Petra
A 1.5-hour drive south through the mountains brings you to the town of Wadi Musa, the gateway to Petra.
Check-in at Wadi Musa
Find a hotel within walking distance of the Petra Visitor Center to avoid morning transport stress.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
A smaller, 'preview' version of the main site. It is less crowded, free to enter, and much easier for kids to explore without the long walk.
Petra Kitchen Cooking Class
A great family activity where you learn to cook Jordanian dishes and then eat them together for dinner.
Day 9: Petra, Jordan - The Rose Red City
The Siq and The Treasury
Start early to beat the heat. The 1.2km walk through the Siq is flat and stroller-accessible. The reveal of the Treasury is unforgettable.
The Street of Facades
Explore the caves and tombs. Kids will love the 'Indiana Jones' vibe of the ancient dwellings.
Lunch inside the Archeological Park
There are several restaurants inside. Take a long break here to rest little legs before heading back.
Electric Golf Cart Return
If the kids are tired, you can take a paid golf cart ride from the Treasury back through the Siq to the entrance.
Day 10: Petra, Jordan - High Views and Relaxation
Petra Museum
Visit the modern museum at the entrance. It's air-conditioned and features interactive screens that are great for children.
Pool Time
After a busy day of hiking yesterday, spend the afternoon relaxing by the hotel pool.
Wadi Musa Souq
Walk through the local market to buy spices, tea, and sand-art bottles as souvenirs.
Petra by Night (Optional)
If the kids are older, the candlelit walk to the Treasury is magical, though it involves more walking.
Day 11: Petra to Wadi Rum, Jordan - Martian Landscapes
Drive to Wadi Rum
A 2-hour drive south into the heart of the desert. Park your car at the Visitor Center or the village.
4x4 Desert Jeep Tour
The best way to see the dunes and rock bridges. Drivers are accustomed to families and can adjust the speed for comfort.
Sandboarding
Most jeep tours stop at high dunes where kids can try sliding down the sand on boards.
Zarb Dinner and Stargazing
Eat a traditional Bedouin meal cooked underground, followed by an incredible view of the Milky Way.
Day 12: Wadi Rum to Aqaba, Jordan - Red Sea Arrival
Camel Trek
Enjoy a short, 30-minute camel ride near the camp before departing the desert—a highlight for most children.
Drive to Aqaba
A short 1-hour drive takes you from the desert to the coastal city of Aqaba on the Red Sea.
Lunch in the City Center
Try the local fish dish, Sayadieh, at one of the many breezy outdoor cafes.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
Perfect for families with young children who aren't ready to snorkel but want to see the vibrant coral and fish.
Day 13: Aqaba, Jordan - Sun and Snorkel
Berenice Beach Club
Spend the day at this beach club south of the city. It offers pools, a clean beach, and easy snorkeling access from the jetty.
Snorkeling in the Marine Park
The water is calm and clear, making it an ideal place for kids to try snorkeling for the first time.
Return to Hotel
Relax and enjoy the resort amenities.
Evening at the Waterfront
Aqaba's waterfront comes alive at night with families, street food, and a festive atmosphere.
Day 14: Aqaba, Jordan - Leisure and Local Life
Aqaba Castle and Museum
A small, manageable fort that gives a bit of history without requiring hours of walking.
Souq Shopping
Aqaba is a duty-free zone, making it a great place to buy nuts, coffee, and sweets to take home.
Poolside Afternoon
A dedicated 'down day' for the kids to just play in the water and for parents to relax.
Farewell Seafood Dinner
Dine at one of the upscale restaurants overlooking the Gulf of Aqaba, watching the lights of Eilat and Egypt in the distance.
Day 15: Aqaba to Amman, Jordan - The Desert Highway
Drive to Amman
The drive takes about 4 hours via the Desert Highway. It is a straight, well-maintained road with several rest stops.
Stop at Shobak Castle
A quick detour to see this lonely Crusader castle. It's rarely crowded and great for a quick explore.
Arrive in Amman
Check back into your final hotel and enjoy a final evening in the capital.
Grand Farewell Meal
Visit Sufra on Rainbow Street for a beautiful, family-style meal in a traditional villa setting.
Day 16: Amman, Jordan - Final Souvenirs and Departure
Souq Al-Balad
Visit the downtown market for any last-minute dates, spices, or textiles.
Brunch at Wild Jordan Center
Enjoy a healthy meal with stunning views of the Citadel before heading to the airport.
Transfer to Airport
Head to Queen Alia International Airport for your flight home, concluding your epic family journey.
Departure
Safe travels home!
Best Time to Visit Jordan
The best time to visit Jordan with a family is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these windows, the weather is pleasantly warm but not scorching, making outdoor explorations like Petra and Wadi Rum comfortable for children. Spring also brings beautiful wildflowers across the northern hills, while autumn offers the perfect sea temperatures in Aqaba. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in the desert and at the Dead Sea, while winters can be surprisingly cold and rainy in Amman and the mountains.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). While major hotels, upscale restaurants, and large shops in Amman and Aqaba accept international credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), Jordan remains a cash-heavy society. You will need cash for entrance fees (if not using the Jordan Pass), local markets, small cafes, and tips. Tipping is customary in Jordan; a 10% tip at restaurants is standard, and small tips for guides and drivers are greatly appreciated.
Getting Around Jordan
For families, the most comfortable way to get around is by renting a private car or hiring a driver. Jordan’s roads are generally in good condition, and the main highways (Desert Highway and King's Highway) are well-signposted in English and Arabic. JETT buses offer reliable intercity transport between Amman, Petra, and Aqaba, but they run on a fixed schedule that may not always suit a family's pace. Within Amman, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are widely available, safe, and affordable, providing a much easier alternative to navigating the city's hilly terrain with a stroller.
