20-Day Ultimate Family Adventure: Epic Journeys Route in Jordan
Jordan is an incredibly welcoming destination for families, offering a blend of high-octane adventure and deeply educational history that captivates both children and adults. This 20-day epic journey is designed to move at a gentle pace, ensuring that little legs don't get too tired while still hitting all the iconic landmarks of the Hashemite Kingdom.
From the bustling, stroller-friendly parks of Amman to the sandy 'Mars-like' landscapes of Wadi Rum, this route prioritizes comfort and accessibility. We utilize private transfers and the reliable JETT bus system to keep travel days low-stress, allowing your family to focus on making memories in the Red City and the salty waters of the Dead Sea.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Amman, Jordan - Arrival and Settling In
Queen Alia International Airport Arrival
Touch down in Amman and clear customs. For families, pre-arranging a transfer with a child seat is highly recommended for a smooth start.
Hotel Check-in and Rest
Head to your hotel in the Shmeisani or Abdali district, areas known for being more modern and stroller-accessible.
Gentle Walk in Abdali Boulevard
Explore this pedestrian-only zone filled with shops and cafes, perfect for a low-key first evening.
Family Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed meal at a local bistro featuring kid-friendly staples like fresh hummus and pita bread.
Day 2: Amman, Jordan - Ancient History for Little Explorers
Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal'a)
Explore the ruins of the Temple of Hercules. The open spaces are great for kids to run around while you enjoy the panoramic city views.
Roman Theater
Visit the impressively preserved theater. Kids will love climbing the lower steps and testing the acoustics in the center of the stage.
Lunch at Hashem Restaurant
Dine at this legendary downtown spot. It's fast, casual, and the falafel is world-class.
Downtown Souks
A sensory experience for the family. Walk through the spice and fruit markets, picking up some local dates for snacks.
Day 3: Amman, Jordan - Interactive Learning
The Children's Museum Jordan
Located in King Hussein Park, this is a world-class facility with over 180 interactive exhibits for kids of all ages.
King Hussein Park Picnic
Enjoy the lush green spaces of the park, a rare find in the city, perfect for a relaxed family picnic.
Royal Automobile Museum
Located right next to the Children's Museum, this collection of classic cars and motorbikes is a hit with children and car enthusiasts.
Rainbow Street Stroll
Explore the colorful cafes and artisan shops. Don't miss Gerard Ice Cream for a treat!
Day 4: Amman, Jordan - Day Trip to Jerash
Travel to Jerash
A 50-minute drive north takes you to one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the world.
Jerash Archaeological Site
Walk through the Oval Plaza and the Cardo Maximus. The wide, flat colonnaded streets are surprisingly manageable for robust strollers.
Lunch in Jerash
Enjoy a traditional Lebanese-style lunch at the Lebanese House (Umm Khalil) nearby.
Return to Amman
Relax on the drive back to the city for a quiet evening at the hotel.
Day 5: Ajloun, Jordan - Castles and Forests
Ajloun Castle
Visit this 12th-century Muslim castle built to defend against the Crusaders. Its dark corridors and towers are exciting for kids to explore.
Ajloun Forest Reserve Lunch
Dine at the reserve's restaurant, which serves organic food grown by local villagers.
Soap House & Calligraphy House
Visit these local workshops where kids can see how traditional olive oil soap is made and try their hand at Arabic script.
Evening Nature Walk
Take a short, easy trail through the evergreen oaks before heading back to your accommodation.
Day 6: Madaba, Jordan - The City of Mosaics
Travel to Madaba
A short 45-minute drive south from Amman brings you to this historic town famous for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics.
St. George’s Church
See the famous 6th-century Mosaic Map of the Holy Land. It's a great 'I-Spy' game for kids to find Jerusalem or the Dead Sea on the floor.
Madaba Archaeological Park
Walk through the ruins and see even more impressive floor mosaics in a relaxed, open-air setting.
Mt. Nebo Sunset
A 15-minute drive from Madaba leads to the spot where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land. The view of the Jordan Valley is breathtaking.
Day 7: Dead Sea, Jordan - Floating Fun
Drive to the Dead Sea
Descend to the lowest point on earth. The dramatic change in landscape is a sight to behold.
Resort Check-in
Check into a resort with dedicated children's pools and easy beach access.
The Dead Sea Float
Experience the unique buoyancy of the water. Note: Make sure kids don't splash, as the salt water stings the eyes!
Mud Bathing
Apply the famous Dead Sea mud for a fun (and messy) family activity that leaves skin feeling soft.
Day 8: Dead Sea, Jordan - Relaxation and Education
Leisurely Breakfast
Enjoy a slow morning at the resort buffet.
Dead Sea Museum
Visit the Dead Sea Panoramic Complex to learn about the geology and history of the area through engaging exhibits.
Pool Time
Let the kids splash in the fresh-water pools while parents relax by the poolside.
Starlit Dinner
Enjoy a Mediterranean dinner overlooking the lights of the West Bank across the water.
Day 9: Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan - Into the Wild
Drive to Dana
The 3-hour journey south offers stunning views as you climb back into the mountains.
Arrival in Dana Village
Explore this 15th-century stone village perched on the edge of a dramatic canyon.
Village Garden Walk
Take a short walk through the terraced gardens where locals grow fruits and herbs.
Traditional Guesthouse Dinner
Eat a home-cooked meal with your hosts, a great way for kids to experience local hospitality.
Day 10: Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan - Eco-Adventures
Nawatef Trail
An easy 2-hour guided walk that is suitable for families, offering great views of the Dana Valley without being too strenuous.
Feynan Eco Lodge Experience
If you're feeling adventurous, take the 4x4 transfer down to the eco-lodge for a truly off-grid experience.
Bedouin Coffee Ceremony
Learn the intricate rituals of coffee making and hospitality from the local Bedouin community.
Stargazing
The lack of light pollution makes this one of the best places in Jordan to see the Milky Way.
Day 11: Petra, Jordan - The Little Gateway
Drive to Wadi Musa
A scenic 2-hour drive brings you to the gateway of Petra.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
Visit this smaller site first. It’s less crowded, free to enter, and gives the kids a 'preview' of the main event without the long walks.
Petra Museum
Located at the entrance of the main site, this modern museum is excellent for kids to learn about the Nabataeans through touch-screens and artifacts.
Wadi Musa Dinner
Try 'Maqluba', a traditional 'upside-down' rice and chicken dish that kids usually love.
Day 12: Petra, Jordan - The Rose Red City
The Siq
Enter early to beat the heat. The 1.2km walk through the narrow canyon is magical for children as the Treasury slowly reveals itself.
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
Marvel at the iconic facade. Take your time here for photos before the crowds arrive.
Street of Facades
Explore the many tombs carved into the rock. The wide valley here allows kids more space to wander.
Lunch at Basin Restaurant
Located deep within the site, this is a good spot to rest before deciding to hike further or head back.
Day 13: Petra, Jordan - High Views and Royal Tombs
Royal Tombs
Explore the Urn Tomb and Silk Tomb. These are large and impressive, and the climb is manageable for older children.
The Colonnaded Street
Walk the ancient Roman road. It's flat and easy for strollers if you have one with large wheels.
Petra by Night (Optional)
If the kids aren't too tired, return in the evening to see the Treasury lit by thousands of candles (runs Mon/Wed/Thu).
Relax at the Hotel Pool
After two days of walking, a swim is the perfect reward for the kids.
Day 14: Wadi Rum, Jordan - The Martian Desert
Drive to Wadi Rum
A 2-hour drive south takes you into the heart of the desert.
Camp Check-in
Check into a luxury 'Martian Dome' or a traditional Bedouin tent with private facilities.
4x4 Sunset Tour
Buckle up for a Jeep tour of the red sand dunes and natural rock bridges.
Zarb Dinner
Experience a traditional Bedouin barbecue cooked in an underground oven. It's a dinner and a show!
Day 15: Wadi Rum, Jordan - Sand and Stars
Sandboarding
Find a soft dune and let the kids try sandboarding. It’s safe, fun, and makes for great photos.
Camel Trek
A short 30-minute camel ride is a 'must-do' for kids to feel like true desert explorers.
Lawrence’s Spring
Visit the spring and see the ancient inscriptions on the nearby rocks.
Bedouin Storytelling
Listen to stories of the desert around a campfire before bed.
Day 16: Wadi Rum, Jordan - Celestial Wonders
Leisurely Desert Morning
Enjoy the silence of the desert. Let the kids play in the sand near the camp.
Lunch at the Camp
Savor fresh salads and grilled meats.
Short Hike to Mushroom Rock
An easy walk to one of the desert's most strangely shaped formations.
Star Observation Program
Join a guided stargazing session using high-powered telescopes to see planets and distant galaxies.
Day 17: Aqaba, Jordan - Red Sea Relaxation
Drive to Aqaba
A 1-hour drive brings you to Jordan's only coastal city.
Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Perfect for families with young children who aren't ready to snorkel yet. See the coral reefs and shipwrecks through the glass.
Check-in at Tala Bay
This area south of the city center is quieter and has excellent family-friendly resorts.
Sunset Walk on the Pier
Enjoy the breeze and watch the boats come in.
Day 18: Aqaba, Jordan - Marine Exploration
Aqaba Marine Park
Head to the public beaches of the Marine Park for some of the best shore-access snorkeling in the world.
Seafood Lunch
Aqaba is famous for 'Sayadieh'—fish cooked with spiced rice and caramelized onions.
Snorkeling Session
Older kids can try snorkeling to see colorful fish just a few meters from the shore.
Aqaba Night Market
Explore the stalls for local crafts and souvenirs in the city center.
Day 19: Aqaba, Jordan - Beach Bliss
Resort Day
Dedicate the day to pure relaxation. Use the resort's kids' club or enjoy the private beach.
Poolside Lunch
Casual dining so the kids can get back to swimming quickly.
Kayaking or Paddleboarding
The calm waters of the Red Sea are perfect for trying out some water sports together.
Farewell Dinner
Celebrate your final full night in Jordan with a feast at a waterfront restaurant.
Day 20: Amman, Jordan - Souvenirs and Departure
Drive Back to Amman
The drive takes about 4 hours via the Desert Highway. Alternatively, take a short domestic flight.
Final Shopping at Souk Jara
If it’s a Friday, visit this outdoor market for unique local handicrafts (otherwise, visit the downtown markets).
Airport Transfer
Head back to Queen Alia International Airport for your flight home, filled with family memories.
Departure
Safe travels back 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 months, the temperatures are pleasantly warm but not scorching, making it comfortable for kids to explore outdoor sites like Petra and Jerash. Summer can be extremely hot, especially in the desert and the Jordan Valley, while winter can be surprisingly cold with occasional snow in Amman and Petra.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping malls in Amman and Aqaba, you will definitely need cash for smaller shops, local markets, and tips. Tipping (baksheesh) is a significant part of the culture; 10% is standard in restaurants, and small tips for drivers and guides are greatly appreciated. ATMs are easily found in all major cities.
Getting Around Jordan
For families, the most comfortable way to get around Jordan is by hiring a private car and driver or renting your own vehicle. This allows for flexibility with bathroom breaks and nap times. The JETT bus is a reliable, air-conditioned, and affordable option for intercity travel between Amman, Petra, and Aqaba if you prefer not to drive. Within Amman, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are the most convenient and transparent way for families to navigate the city's hilly terrain.
