Top affordable trips to explore Jordan

ordan has an incredible history, natural wonders, and warm hospitality. This small country in the heart of the Middle East is a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and spirituality. However, many people assume that exploring Jordan requires a big budget. But that's not entirely true. With a bit of planning and some insider tips, you can enjoy an unforgettable trip to Jordan without breaking the bank. In this article, we'll share some of the top affordable trips to explore the wonders of Jordan.

Budget-friendly hiking trails in Jordan's nature reserves

Jordan has many nature reserves, including Dana Biosphere Reserve, Ajloun Forest Reserve, and Mujib Biosphere Reserve. These reserves offer a wide range of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. The best part? Many of these hikes are free or have a nominal entrance fee.
Dana Biosphere Reserve, for example, offers a range of hiking trails that vary in length and difficulty. The trails take hikers through stunning landscapes, from rocky canyons to sandstone cliffs. Ajloun Forest Reserve, on the other hand, offers hikes through lush forests, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.

Discovering the lesser-known historical sites of Jordan on a shoestring

While Petra and Jerash are the most well-known historical sites in Jordan, the country has many lesser-known sites that are just as fascinating. And the best part? Many of these sites have low entrance fees or are entirely free.
One such site is Umm Qais, an ancient Greco Roman city in northern Jordan. The site offers stunning views of the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee. Another lesser-known site is the Crusader castle of Shobak, which dates back to the 12th century.
 
Staying in cheap but charming guesthouses in Amman

Amman, Jordan's capital city, is a bustling metropolis with plenty of affordable accommodation options. While there are plenty of high-end hotels in the city, there are also many cheap but charming guesthouses that offer a more authentic experience.
One such guesthouse is The Boutique Hotel, located in the heart of Amman's trendy Jabal Al-Weibdeh neighborhood. The hotel offers stylish rooms with traditional Jordanian decor and is within walking distance of some of the city's best cafes and restaurants.

How to eat like a local and save money on food in Jordan

Jordanian cuisine is a mouthwatering blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. From savory meat dishes to refreshing salads and sweet desserts, Jordanian food is a treat for your taste buds. However, dining out in Jordan can be expensive if you stick to tourist restaurants. To save money and experience authentic local food head to local eateries and street food stalls.
 Here are some of the must-try dishes in Jordan:
- Mansaf: Jordan's national dish, made with lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce and served over rice.
- Falafel: Fried balls made of chickpeas, herbs, and spices, served with tahini sauce and pita bread.
- Hummus: A creamy dip made of mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, served with bread.
- Shwarma: Thinly sliced meat (usually chicken or lamb) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and wrapped in a pita with vegetables and sauce.
- Fattoush: A refreshing salad made with lettuce, cucumber, tomato, onion, radish, and crispy pita chips, dressed with tangy sumac and lemon dressing.

Visiting the Dead Sea on a budget

The Dead Sea is one of Jordan's most famous attractions because of its salty water and therapeutic mud. However, many visitors assume that a trip to the Dead Sea requires a luxurious spa experience or an expensive resort stay. But you can visit the Dead Sea on a budget by staying in one of the nearby towns like Madaba, Amman, or Karak and taking a day trip to the sea. You can also bring your food and drinks and have a picnic on the beach instead of eating at the restaurants. And don't forget to cover yourself in the mineral-rich mud and take a dip in the salty water, which is free of charge!

Saving money on transportation in Jordan

Getting around Jordan can be tricky, especially if you don't speak Arabic. However, there are several affordable options to travel around the country. Public transportation in Jordan is cheap and reliable, with buses and shared taxis (called "service" taxis) connecting most cities and towns. You can also rent a car and drive yourself, but be aware of the traffic rules and road conditions. Hitchhiking is also a popular option in Jordan, especially in rural areas, but make sure to ask for permission and be cautious.

Exploring the ancient city of Petra on a budget

Exploring the ancient city of Petra on a budget is a great way to experience the stunning architecture and history of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site without overspending. One of the best ways to save money while exploring Petra is to opt for a self-guided tour rather than hiring a guide. The site is well-marked and has detailed maps that are easily available so visitors can explore at their own pace without the added cost of a guide. Additionally, consider visiting during the shoulder season, which falls from March to May and September to November, when the crowds are thinner and the weather is milder. This can save you money on entrance fees, as tickets are priced higher during the peak season.

Camping in the Wadi Rum desert without breaking the bank

Camping in the Wadi Rum desert is an incredible experience that doesn't have to break the bank. One of the best ways to save money is to bring your camping equipment and supplies, as renting them on-site can be quite costly. Additionally, consider joining a group tour or finding travel partners to split the cost of a private tour guide, which can be an incredible way to explore the vast desert landscapes while keeping costs low. Lastly, consider visiting during the off-season, which falls between May and October, when prices are lower and the weather is still warm enough to enjoy the desert scenery. With some smart planning and budgeting, you can experience the beauty and tranquility of the Wadi Rum desert without overspending.