Jordan Family Travel Guide 2025
Everything families need to know for a successful trip to Jordan with kids.
Jordan captivates travelers with its blend of ancient history, dramatic desert landscapes, and warm hospitality. From the rose-red city of Petra to the otherworldly wadis and the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, this Middle Eastern kingdom offers unforgettable experiences. Whether floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea, camping under stars in Wadi Rum, or exploring Roman ruins at Jerash, Jordan rewards visitors with authentic culture and timeless beauty.
Top Family Activities
The best experiences for families in Jordan.
Dead Sea Floating Experience
The impossible-to-sink sensation of the hypersaline Dead Sea delights children and adults equally. Float effortlessly while applying therapeutic black mud to skin, then rinse off in the freshwater pools. Keep children supervised at all times as the water is extremely salty.
Petra Exploration (Donkey/Horse Option)
The Treasury reveal at the end of the Siq canyon is one of travel's most memorable moments for children. For tired younger legs, horse and donkey rides are available between key monuments. Pack snacks and water as the site is extensive.
Wadi Rum Camel and Jeep Tour
Children are captivated by camel rides between towering red sandstone formations and 4x4 jeep adventures over sand dunes. Evening Bedouin camp dinners with campfire stories and star-gazing create unforgettable family memories.
Jerash Chariot Race Experience
The Roman Army and Chariot Experience at Jerash brings ancient history to life with costumed soldiers and horse-drawn chariot races in the original hippodrome. Held daily and specially popular with children who can interact with performers.
Children's Museum Jordan - Amman
Jordan's dedicated children's museum in Amman features interactive science exhibits, outdoor playground, arts and crafts workshops, and hands-on learning activities. One of Amman's best options for entertaining children on a rest day between excursions.
Aqaba Snorkeling and Glass-Bottom Boat
The crystal-clear Red Sea at Aqaba with its vibrant coral reefs just meters from shore is ideal for introducing children to snorkeling. Glass-bottom boat tours for non-swimmers reveal the same colorful fish and coral without getting wet.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
The miniature version of Petra with carved Nabataean facades, cave rooms, and painted ceilings is completely free and less overwhelming than the main site for young children. A perfect introduction to Nabataean archaeology at a manageable scale.
Activities by Age Group
Find activities suited to your children's ages.
👶 Toddlers (0-3)
- Parks with shaded play areas
- Short, stroller-friendly walks
- Swimming pools at family hotels
- Animal encounters
🧒 Young Kids (4-7)
- Interactive museums
- Easy outdoor adventures
- Cultural shows and performances
- Market explorations
🧑 Older Kids (8-12)
- Historical site tours
- Adventure activities
- Cooking classes for kids
- Nature excursions
👦 Teens (13+)
- Adventure sports
- Photography walks
- Cultural immersion experiences
- Food tours
Complete Family Travel Guide
Family itineraries, packing checklists, and activity planning tips.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Where to stay with kids.
Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea
Jordan's most family-friendly luxury resort on Dead Sea shores with dedicated kids' club, multiple pools including a shallow children's pool, private beach, and family suites. The buoyant Dead Sea is entertaining for children though supervision is essential.
Mövenpick Resort Petra
Positioned at the gates of Petra with excellent family facilities including a large pool, family rooms, buffet restaurant with wide choices, and evening Bedouin cultural entertainment that children love.
The Old Village Hotel - Petra
Affordable family accommodation near Petra designed as a traditional Jordanian village with spacious family rooms, large pool area, playground, and a comprehensive buffet. Excellent value for families watching their budget.
Mövenpick Tala Bay Aqaba
Beachfront Red Sea resort with direct beach access, dedicated children's pool, kids' club, water sports, and multiple dining options. Perfect for a relaxing family beach holiday after desert adventures.
What to Look For
- Family rooms or connecting rooms
- Swimming pool (supervised)
- Restaurant with kids' menu
- Babysitting/kids' club services
- Safe, enclosed outdoor spaces
- Proximity to attractions
Kid-Friendly Dining
Where to eat with children.
Jordanian restaurants are universally welcoming to children — don't hesitate to bring babies and young children to any restaurant
Most hotel buffets offer enormous variety that satisfies picky eaters — the Mövenpick and Marriott buffets are particularly comprehensive
Hashem Restaurant in downtown Amman is a perfect first meal for families with children — endless hummus, falafel, and bread arrive automatically in a chaotic but fun atmosphere
Children's menus ($5-10) available at international restaurants and hotel dining rooms; traditional Jordanian restaurants serve smaller portions on request
Bring snacks for long drives and day trips — Amman supermarkets (Safeway, Carrefour) have good selections of packaged food suitable for children
Family Travel Tips
Make traveling with kids easier.
Purchase the Jordan Pass before arrival — it covers children's entry to many sites and saves significant money for families
Dead Sea precautions are critical: no submersion of heads, avoid contact with eyes, cover any cuts, limit children's time to 10-15 minutes maximum
Carry significantly more water than you think you need — children dehydrate faster in Jordan's desert climate
Hire a private driver rather than struggling with public transport when travelling with young children — typically $80-120/day
Health & Safety
- Check recommended vaccinations for children
- Pack enough prescription medications
- Bring sun protection and stay hydrated
- Research nearest hospitals/clinics
- Get travel insurance covering the whole family
Plan Your Family Adventure
Get our complete family travel guide with kid-friendly itineraries, packing lists, and activity recommendations.
Download Family Guide