29-Day Northern Middle East Northern/Scenic Route (Mountains, Nature): Turkey, Iraq & Jordan in January
Embarking on a 29-day journey through the northern reaches of the Middle East in January is a challenge for the soul and a gift for the eyes. This route is designed for the true budget backpacker, focusing on the rugged Taurus Mountains of Turkey, the dramatic limestone peaks of Iraqi Kurdistan, and the high-desert plateaus of Jordan. By utilizing night buses, local dolmuses, and the world's most generous street food culture, you can navigate these legendary landscapes on an ultra-lean budget.
Traveling in January means you will encounter crisp snow in the north and refreshing cool air in the south. This is the low season, meaning crowds are non-existent at world-class sites like the Citadel of Erbil or the Roman ruins of Jerash. Pack your heaviest thermals and prepare for a journey where the warmth of the locals far exceeds the sub-zero temperatures outside.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Istanbul, Turkey - Arrival & Galata Views
Sultanahmet Square
Walk through the historic heart of Istanbul, viewing the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia from the outside to save on entry fees. The architecture is just as stunning from the courtyard.
Sultanahmet Street Food
Grab a Simit (sesame bread) for less than $0.50 from a street cart for a quick, authentic lunch while exploring the Hippodrome.
Galata Bridge Walk
Walk across the bridge to watch local fishermen and enjoy the panoramic view of the Golden Horn as the winter sun sets.
Karaköy Backstreets
Explore the trendy but affordable backstreets of Karaköy for cheap tea and local vibes.
Day 2: Istanbul, Turkey - Bosphorus & Bazaars
Grand Bazaar Exploration
Wander the 61 covered streets. It is free to enter and offers a warm respite from the January chill. Focus on the architecture rather than shopping.
Eminönü Balik Ekmek
Eat a famous grilled fish sandwich from the boats at Eminönü—the ultimate budget lunch in Istanbul.
Public Bosphorus Ferry
Skip the private tours. Take the public ferry to Kadıköy for just a few liras to enjoy the scenic mountain backdrop of the city.
Kadıköy Market
Explore the Asian side's food market for affordable mezes and a glimpse into local life.
Day 3: Istanbul to Bursa (Turkey) - Into the Silk Road
IDO Ferry to Yalova
Take the budget-friendly ferry across the Sea of Marmara, then a short bus to the mountain city of Bursa.
Grand Mosque of Bursa
Visit the Ulu Cami, a masterpiece of early Ottoman architecture with 20 domes and incredible calligraphy.
Koza Han Tea
Sit in the historic Silk Market courtyard with a hot glass of Turkish tea to stay warm.
Iskender Kebab
Bursa is the home of this dish. Look for a local 'lokanta' away from the main square for the best price.
Day 4: Bursa, Turkey - Snow on Uludağ
Teleferik Ride
Take the cable car up to Uludağ Mountain. While the ride costs a bit, the views of the snow-covered forests are essential for the 'Northern' theme.
Snow Hiking
Explore the lower trails of the national park for free. The mountain air is incredibly fresh in January.
Cumalıkızık Village
Visit this 700-year-old UNESCO village on the slopes of the mountain to see preserved Ottoman houses.
Local Hostel Night
Share travel stories with other winter backpackers in a budget dorm room.
Day 5: Bursa to Ankara (Turkey) - Capital Transit
Intercity Bus to Ankara
Take a modern, high-quality Turkish bus through the central Anatolian plateau. Watch the landscape turn into a winter wonderland.
Anitkabir Visit
Visit the massive, free-to-enter mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, overlooking the city.
Ankara Castle
Wander the old citadel walls for a 360-degree view of the Turkish capital in the snow.
Kızılay Square
Find the cheapest student-priced eats in the heart of Ankara’s commercial district.
Day 6: Ankara to Goreme (Turkey) - Fairytale Winter
Bus to Cappadocia
A 4-hour journey into the heart of the 'fairy chimney' landscape, which looks surreal under a blanket of snow.
Goreme Open Air Museum
Explore the ancient rock-cut churches. In January, the crowds are minimal compared to the summer peak.
Sunset Point Hike
A free hike to the top of the ridge above Goreme to see the valleys transition into pink and orange hues.
Cave Hostel Experience
Sleep in a traditional cave hostel. Many offer heated dorms for a fraction of the cost of luxury cave hotels.
Day 7: Cappadocia, Turkey - Valley Trekking
Balloon Watching
Skip the expensive flight and watch the balloons rise over the snowy landscape from the ground—it's free and magical.
Love Valley Hike
A free self-guided trek through the unique rock formations. The crisp winter air makes the hiking easy.
Avanos Pottery District
Walk through the town of Avanos and watch local potters work with Red River clay.
Testi Kebab Dinner
Try the famous 'pottery kebab' at a local eatery—a warm, hearty meal perfect for a cold night.
Day 8: Cappadocia to Erzurum (Turkey) - Deep East
Eastward Bus Journey
Begin the long transit toward the Iraqi border, stopping in Erzurum, one of Turkey's highest and coldest cities.
Twin Minaret Madrasa
Visit this Seljuk-era landmark. Its intricate stone carvings are world-renowned.
Rustem Pasha Caravan
A historic trading post where you can find high-quality Oltu stone jewelry and local crafts.
Cağ Kebabı
Erzurum's specialty—horizontally stacked lamb. It’s cheap, filling, and high in energy for the cold.
Day 9: Erzurum to Erbil (Iraq) - Border Crossing
Bus to Cizre/Silopi
Head toward the Habur border crossing. This is a long day of travel through the rugged mountains of Southeast Turkey.
Habur Border Crossing
Cross into the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Note that many nationalities get a free or cheap VOA here.
Taxi to Erbil
Shared taxis from the border are the standard way to reach Erbil (Hewlêr) for backpackers.
Erbil Arrival
Check into a budget hotel near the Citadel for the best access to central sights.
Day 10: Erbil, Iraq - The Ancient Citadel
Erbil Citadel
Explore one of the oldest continuously inhabited spots on Earth. It's free to walk the perimeter and enjoy the view.
Qaysari Bazaar
Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys. Try the local Kurdish honey and walnuts for a high-calorie snack.
Shar Garden Square
Sit with local elders at the fountain, drink tea, and people-watch in the shadow of the Citadel.
Mam Khalil Tea House
A legendary tea house filled with history and photos of old Erbil. A glass of tea is only cents.
Day 11: Erbil to Akre (Iraq) - The Stone City
Shared Taxi to Akre
Travel to the most scenic town in Iraq, built into the side of a mountain.
Old Akre Exploration
Hike the steep stone staircases and narrow alleys of the old town, where houses are built on top of each other.
Zoroastrian Fire Temple
Explore the ruins and caves around the city that hold ancient religious significance.
Mountain View Sunset
Find a high point to watch the lights of the city flicker on against the dark mountain backdrop.
Day 12: Akre to Amadiya (Iraq) - The Fortress in the Sky
Transit to Amadiya
A scenic drive through the high Zagros mountains to a village perched on a flat plateau atop a mountain peak.
Bahdinan Gate
The only remaining ancient entrance to the fortress city, featuring incredible stonework.
Plateau Walk
Walk the entire perimeter of the town (about 45 minutes) for stunning views of the valleys below.
Tahini Tasting
Amadiya is famous for its tahini. Visit a local mill to see it made and buy a jar for pennies.
Day 13: Amadiya to Duhok (Iraq) - Mountain Lake
Travel to Duhok
A short trip down from the fortress to the vibrant city of Duhok, surrounded by mountains.
Duhok Dam
Walk around the reservoir for scenic mountain reflections and a popular local picnic spot.
Charstin Cave
Visit the ancient fire temple cave located just on the edge of the city.
Duhok Bazaar
Enjoy cheap Kurdish street food like 'Lafa' (wraps) while exploring the modern shopping streets.
Day 14: Duhok to Erbil & Flight to Amman (Iraq/Jordan)
Return to Erbil
Catch a final shared taxi back to the capital for your flight out.
Jalil Khayat Mosque
Visit this stunning, modern mosque inspired by Ottoman and Egyptian styles before heading to the airport.
Flight to Amman
Budget airlines like Pegasus or Royal Jordanian offer connections between Erbil and Amman.
Amman Arrival
Take the airport shuttle bus to the North Station or downtown for the cheapest transit.
Day 15: Amman, Jordan - The Citadel & Downtown
Amman Citadel
Perched on the highest hill, it offers Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad ruins in one spot. Use your Jordan Pass here!
Hashem Restaurant
Eat at this legendary downtown spot where royalty and backpackers eat the same cheap falafel and hummus.
Roman Theatre
A massive, 6,000-seat theater built into the hillside. It's free to view from the street or included in the Jordan Pass.
Habibah Sweets
Wait in line for Knafeh—a warm, cheese-based pastry that is the quintessential Amman dessert.
Day 16: Amman, Jordan - Rainbow Street & Art
Rainbow Street Walk
Wander the colorful street known for its cafes and galleries. Great for photography before the crowds arrive.
Al-Balad Souqs
Dive into the gold and spice souqs in the lower city for a sensory overload and cheap spices to take home.
Darat al Funun
Visit this free art space housed in renovated historic buildings overlooking the city.
Street Food Crawl
Try Arayes (grilled meat-stuffed pita) from a corner vendor for a $2 dinner.
Day 17: Amman to Jerash (Jordan) - Roman Grandeur
Public Bus to Jerash
Take a local minibus from the North Station for a couple of dollars to see the 'Pompeii of the East'.
Jerash Archaeological Site
Spend hours walking through the Oval Plaza, the Cardo Maximus, and the massive temples.
Jerash Market
Explore the modern town of Jerash for fresh bread and local olives at much lower prices than Amman.
Return to Amman
Catch the last minibus back to the capital as the winter fog rolls over the hills.
Day 18: Amman to Ajloun (Jordan) - Pine Forests
Ajloun Castle
Visit this 12th-century Muslim castle built to defend against the Crusaders. It offers views all the way to Israel and Syria.
Ajloun Forest Reserve
Walk the Soap House trail. In January, the oak and pistachio trees are lush and green.
Biscuit House
Support a local women’s cooperative and enjoy healthy, cheap snacks made from local ingredients.
Local Homestay
Stay with a family in Ajloun for an affordable and warm cultural experience.
Day 19: Ajloun to Madaba (Jordan) - Mosaic City
Travel to Madaba
Move south via shared taxi or bus to the city famous for its ancient Byzantine mosaics.
St. George’s Church
See the famous 6th-century Mosaic Map of the Holy Land on the floor of this Greek Orthodox church.
Madaba Archaeological Park
Explore the 'Burnt Palace' and other mosaic-rich ruins included in your Jordan Pass.
Mount Nebo View
Take a short taxi to the spot where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land. The sunset here is legendary.
Day 20: Madaba to Karak (Jordan) - Kings’ Highway
Drive the Kings’ Highway
Take the scenic, winding route south through the Wadi Mujib canyon—Jordan’s Grand Canyon.
Karak Castle
Explore the massive Crusader fortress. The underground tunnels and halls provide great protection from January winds.
Karak Old Town
Eat a bowl of Mansaf (Jordan's national dish) in a local eatery for a hearty, traditional meal.
Hostel in Karak
Rest in a simple local guesthouse before continuing the journey south.
Day 21: Karak to Dana (Jordan) - Nature Reserve
Arrival in Dana Village
Visit a 15th-century stone village perched on the edge of a precipice overlooking the Dana Biosphere Reserve.
Wadi Dana Trail
Start a self-guided hike into the valley. The scenery changes from Mediterranean to desert as you descend.
Wildlife Spotting
Look for the endangered Syrian Serin or mountain gazelles which are active in the cooler winter months.
Village Tea Session
Join the locals for tea around a wood fire in the village guesthouse.
Day 22: Dana to Wadi Musa/Petra (Jordan)
Bus to Wadi Musa
Travel to the gateway of Petra. Spend the afternoon preparing for the long days of walking ahead.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
Visit this 'mini' version of Petra. It is free to enter and gives you a taste of the Nabataean carvings without the crowds.
Wadi Musa Markets
Stock up on water and snacks at the local supermarkets to avoid the inflated prices inside the Petra site.
Local Shawarma Dinner
Find the best local shawarma joint in the upper part of town for a $3 feast.
Day 23: Petra, Jordan - The Rose Red City
The Siq & Treasury
Enter as soon as the gates open to walk through the Siq in silence and see the Treasury without the crowds.
High Place of Sacrifice
Hike up the steep stairs for an incredible view over the entire valley. The climb is invigorating in the cold air.
Royal Tombs
Explore the massive facades carved into the mountain side, glowing in the afternoon light.
Colonnaded Street
Walk the ancient Roman road that served as the commercial heart of the city.
Day 24: Petra, Jordan - The Monastery Hike
Ad Deir (The Monastery)
Climb the 800 steps to one of Petra's largest and most impressive monuments. It's much quieter than the Treasury.
View of Wadi Araba
Walk just past the Monastery to the 'End of the World' viewpoints for a look over the vast desert valley.
Wadi Farasa Trail
Take the back route down to see the Garden Temple and the Lion Triclinium, rarely visited by tourists.
Turkish Bath
Treat your aching muscles to a traditional bath in Wadi Musa—budget versions are available for locals.
Day 25: Petra to Wadi Rum (Jordan) - Mars on Earth
JETT Bus to Wadi Rum
Catch the early tourist bus or a local minibus to the desert wilderness of the south.
Jeep Tour (Budget Style)
Join a shared jeep tour to see Lawrence’s Spring and the red sand dunes. Negotiate a group rate at the visitor center.
Um Frouth Rock Bridge
Scramble up this natural stone arch for a classic Wadi Rum photo.
Bedouin Zarb Dinner
Eat meat and vegetables cooked in an underground oven. Most budget camps include this in the stay.
Day 26: Wadi Rum, Jordan - Desert Stars
Desert Trekking
Go on a self-guided walk near your camp. The silence of the desert in winter is profound.
Khazali Canyon
Walk into this narrow fissure to see ancient Thamudic inscriptions and petroglyphs.
Sunset Camel Ride
If the budget allows, a short 1-hour ride at sunset is the quintessential desert experience.
Stargazing
The winter sky in the desert is exceptionally clear. Lay back and see the Milky Way with zero light pollution.
Day 27: Wadi Rum to Aqaba (Jordan) - Red Sea Relief
Bus to Aqaba
Leave the desert for the coastal city of Aqaba. The temperature here is much warmer in January.
Public Beach Relaxing
Head to the South Beach for free sunbathing and a dip in the Red Sea (it stays around 21°C/70°F).
Aqaba Fortress
Visit the Mamluk-era castle and the giant flagpole, one of the tallest in the world.
Fresh Seafood Dinner
Eat at the local fish market for a fraction of the price of the resort restaurants.
Day 28: Aqaba to Amman (Jordan) - The Desert Highway
Northward Bus
Take the 4-hour JETT bus back to Amman. Watch the desert scenery fly by one last time.
King Abdullah I Mosque
Visit the famous blue-domed mosque in Amman, which allows non-Muslim visitors inside.
Last Minute Souvenirs
Buy some Dead Sea mud or Jordanian coffee in the downtown markets for cheap gifts.
Farewell Hummus
One last meal at Hashem to celebrate the end of an epic 29-day journey.
Day 29: Amman, Jordan - Departure
Final Arabic Breakfast
Enjoy a hearty spread of labneh, za'atar, and olives at your hostel.
Jordan Museum
If you have time, visit this museum to see the Dead Sea Scrolls and the 9,000-year-old Ain Ghazal statues.
Airport Shuttle
Take the yellow Sariyah bus from North Station for the most reliable and cheapest airport link.
Flight Home
Depart from Queen Alia International Airport with a camera full of mountains and a heart full of stories.
Best Time to Visit Middle East
The best time to visit the Northern Middle East depends heavily on your tolerance for weather. For this scenic and mountainous route, **January** is the peak of winter. While Turkey and Iraqi Kurdistan will be snowy and cold (often below freezing), this offers a unique perspective on the landscape and ensures the lowest possible prices for accommodation. Jordan remains manageable, with cool days perfect for hiking Petra without the desert heat. If you prefer milder weather, the shoulder seasons of **April to May** or **September to October** offer blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures, though costs will be higher.
Visas & Border Crossings
Crossing borders in this region requires careful planning. **Turkey** offers E-visas for many nationalities, which should be obtained online in advance. The land crossing from Turkey into **Iraqi Kurdistan** (Habur/Ibrahim Khalil) is generally straightforward for Western passport holders, who often receive a 30-day free stamp on arrival (verify current regulations for 'Federal Iraq' vs 'Kurdistan Region'). For **Jordan**, the **Jordan Pass** is your best friend; it waives the visa fee if you stay at least three nights and covers your entry to Petra and other sites. Always check the latest political situation before attempting land crossings between these countries.
Getting Around Middle East
Budget travel in the Middle East is powered by the 'Service' (shared taxi) and the local minibus. In **Turkey**, the intercity bus network (companies like FlixBus/Kamil Koç) is world-class, offering tea, snacks, and Wi-Fi. In **Iraqi Kurdistan**, there are no large buses; you must go to the local 'Garage' and find a shared taxi heading to your destination. In **Jordan**, the JETT bus is great for tourist routes, but local white minibuses are the cheapest way to travel. For jumping between countries (like Iraq to Jordan), budget airlines such as **Pegasus**, **FlyDubai**, and **Ryanair** (which flies into Jordan) are often cheaper than long, complicated land transits through third countries.
