About Ma'an
Ma'an Governorate sprawls across southern Jordan covering over 32,000 km², making it the country's largest governorate. It is anchored by the ancient Nabataean city of Petra — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — alongside the UNESCO-listed Wadi Rum desert. The region blends Bedouin heritage, Crusader history, and extraordinary geological formations into one of the Middle East's most rewarding travel experiences. Visitors can explore rock-carved temples, camp under star-filled desert skies, and discover hidden canyons that few tourists ever reach.
Quick Overview
Capital: Ma'an
Largest City: Wadi Musa
Population: 0.15 million
Languages: Arabic, English (widely spoken in tourist areas)
Currency: Jordanian Dinar
Time Zone: Asia/Amman (UTC+3 in summer, UTC+2 in winter)
Explore Ma'an by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Ma'an
Discover the top 4 must-see destinations in Ma'an, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
Petra — Treasury and Siq
Shoubak Castle
Dana Biosphere Reserve
Recommended Itineraries for Ma'an
Plan your perfect Ma'an trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Ma'an Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Ma'an, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Ma'an
- Days 1-2: Ma'an city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Ma'an
- Days 1-3: Ma'an comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Ma'an, departure
Where to Stay in Ma'an
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Ma'an offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($40)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($120)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($350)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Movenpick Resort Petra
Rocky Mountain Hotel
Valentine Inn
Where to Eat in Ma'an
Discover the culinary delights of Ma'an, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Petra Kitchen
Cave Bar
Al Qantarah
Getting Around Ma'an
Budget Breakdown for Ma'an
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: JOD.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15 | $60 | $200 |
| Food (per day) | $10 | $25 | $80 |
| Transportation | $8 | $20 | $40 |
| Activities | $7 | $15 | $30 |
| Daily Total | $40 | $120 | $350 |
Best Time to Visit Ma'an
Best Season: Year-round
Avoid: July-August — extreme heat is dangerous for young children in Petra's open, sun-exposed terrain
Essential Travel Tips for Ma'an
- Buy the Jordan Pass in advance to save on Petra entry and visa
- Start Petra walks at dawn before heat and crowds build
- Stay at least 2 nights near Petra to explore properly
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
Jordan is generally considered one of the safer countries in the Middle East. Ma'an Governorate, home to Petra, has an established tourist infrastructure and regular police presence. The US State Department advises 'Exercise Increased Caution' for Jordan overall due to regional tensions, but the Petra-Ma'an region has no specific heightened advisory.
Carry 2+ litres of water per family member for full Petra days
Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen every 2 hours — UV levels are very high year-round
Keep young children on marked trails — terrain beyond is unstable
Inform your hotel of any planned hikes with children
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Ma'an?
The best time to visit Ma'an is year-round. July-August — extreme heat is dangerous for young children in Petra's open, sun-exposed terrain may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Ma'an?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Ma'an for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Ma'an?
For a comprehensive Ma'an experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Ma'an expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $40 per day, mid-range $120, and luxury $350.