Review: Petra to Dead Sea to Amman Trip (or Airport)

Thinking about hitting up Petra, then floating in the Dead Sea, and zipping off to Amman or the airport? Sounds like a crazy day, that’s true, but it can definitely be done! This breakdown goes over some real points and tips to consider before you set off on what can be a great experience with some prep. Really, it all rides on what you hope to see, how comfy you need to be, and of course, what sort of budget you are working with. You know, the basic trip planning bits.

Figuring Out Your Transportation Situation

Okay, so getting between these spots could be considered the trickiest thing. Seriously, there isn’t actually a direct bus connecting Petra and the Dead Sea. Your main picks, actually, are going to be hiring a driver, hopping in a taxi, or renting your own vehicle. A private driver is, of course, the most easy-going route. Very true, that option lets you kick back and really just take in the sights instead of keeping watch on the road. And too, it’s probably going to be quicker. A taxi, well, that’s an option too, but be absolutely sure you arrange a price upfront, because taxi fares could possibly turn into a major haggle. Renting gives you complete control, and really, opens the door for some exploring on your own clock. So it goes, though keep in mind the roads in Jordan might feel different than what you are used to.

Just a little tip, if you are deciding to rent, consider the vehicle. Some of the roads between these destinations will probably have you liking the idea of a sturdy 4×4, especially if you decide to try and find some cool, lesser-known places off the normal tourist path. It’s almost always nice to consider some real peace of mind.

Plotting Your Course from Petra

Let’s consider what is first. You’re coming from Petra, maybe after a mind-blowing visit to the Monastery or the Treasury. That is one heck of a spot, you know! Starting early is just the thing, to really maximize your time. Plus, Jordan gets very hot, mainly as the day rolls on. Very true, leaving Petra as early as possible gets you to the Dead Sea with loads of daylight for a float. A little note though, the drive itself from Petra to the Dead Sea clocks in at maybe three to four hours. Very true, that also depends on your speed and how often you will need a quick break.

Speaking of routes, the most common one is taking the Desert Highway. Now that highway is pretty efficient, even if it is not very scenic. Alternatively, there’s the King’s Highway, a historic road that curves through some amazing views, really something special. However, that said, that route would take much longer. As a matter of fact, if time is against you, it may be best to stick with the Desert Highway, because you still need time to experience the Dead Sea! It’s almost like a tough choice.

The Unbelievable Dead Sea Experience

Here we are. The Dead Sea. Just to get started, it’s a wild experience. Honestly, the super salty water lets you float without trying, which, come on, is just plain fun. Also, people go just to cover themselves in the mud. The mud here is crammed full of minerals and apparently very good for your skin. That being said, there are a handful of resorts dotting the Dead Sea shore, such as Mövenpick and the Kempinski, and they have, too, private beach access, along with all the showers and changing rooms you may want. That is good to consider.

So a little note, floating is the point, that is valid, but don’t stay in the water for hours at a time, and be sure you don’t splash too much! Too much time in that super salty water may make you feel light headed. Likewise, salty water is probably the last thing you want in your eyes, too! A useful bit of advice: Drink loads of water and try to dodge shaving the day you go. Those little cuts? Yeah, the salt will get you. Now remember that there could also be crowds, especially in the peak season. So be prepared to share that floating experience!

Onward to Amman, or the Airport?

Next, you’ve floated, you have smeared yourself with mud, and rinsed off. So, what happens now? The final leg, of course. Amman is a bit less than an hour away by vehicle from the Dead Sea. Depending on how you’re fixed for time, you might just, you know, want to head right to the airport. If you are sticking around in Amman, consider the traffic! Honestly, Amman’s roads, more often than not, get super busy, more often than not during peak hours.

Really, if you’re scooting off to Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA), give yourself heaps of extra time. Too often there are security lines, plus you really might just want to grab that last shawarma! Consider if you are making it to a flight that evening. So plan smartly around check-in times and any potential hold-ups.

What about Food along the Way?

You’re in luck, because Jordan has amazing food. That’s true. Along your path, particularly around the Dead Sea area, loads of resorts and restaurants have pretty great food with awesome views. On the way, you can come across simple spots with local eats. Places like that are a good way to test some true Jordanian cuisine, such as mansaf (lamb cooked in fermented yogurt) or some falafel. Packing snacks too, well, that’s often just good planning, especially if you get stuck in traffic or don’t find a dining place when you like. Very true, stocking up on water is actually more important than food. This goes double considering you’ll be out in the sun, so always have water handy.

Making it Fit the Budget

So, how much does all of this even cost? That’s almost always the question, you know! Hiring a driver could cost you a pretty penny, mainly depending on how good you happen to be at haggling, the length of the trip and the type of vehicle you are needing. Renting a vehicle might look cheaper upfront, that’s valid, but then be certain you include petrol, insurance, and maybe the odd hidden fee. Entrance fees, for example at the Dead Sea resorts (if you aren’t staying at the resort), can change what the damage will be too.

Too it’s good to think about when you are visiting. During the peak season, costs usually go up, because they can, that’s for sure! Lodgings and transport typically inflate, which means doing this trip in the off-season probably will save you a reasonable chunk of change.

Transportation Choices: Decide between private driver convenience, taxi negotiation, or rental car independence.
Route Planning: Desert Highway for speed, King’s Highway for views, but factor in travel time.
Dead Sea Tips: Hydrate, avoid cuts, and manage your time in the hyper-saline water.
Food Considerations: Look out for roadside eateries, and local delicacies, and bring water.
Budget Awareness: Travel costs vary; weigh the benefits of comfort versus savings.

#Petra #DeadSea #Amman #JordanTravel #TravelGuide