Petra
Ancient Nabataean city carved into rose-red sandstone cliffs
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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.
- 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
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Ma'an
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Wadi Rum
Vast desert protected area with dramatic rock formations
Shoubak Castle
Crusader-era castle with sweeping views over the region
Little Petra
Miniature version of Petra with free admission
Dana Biosphere Reserve
Jordan's largest nature reserve spanning four bioclimatic zones
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Ma'an Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Ma'an, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Ma'an
- Days 1-2Ma'an city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Ma'an
- Days 1-3Ma'an comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Ma'an, departure
Where to stay in Ma'an
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $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
Check rates on Booking.comRocky Mountain Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comValentine Inn
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Ma'an
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Petra Kitchen
Cave Bar
Al Qantarah
Getting around Ma'an
Transportation options in Ma'an include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in JOD, broken out by category.
| 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
Essential travel tips
- 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
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
Is Ma'an safe to visit in 2026?
Ma'an Governorate, including the Petra region, is considered safe for tourists with a Level 1 or Level 2 advisory from most Western governments. Jordan maintains strong internal stability, and the main risks for visitors are environmental (heat, sun, dehydration) rather than security-related. Emergency services: police at 911, medical at 911 / Wadi Musa Health Center: +962 3 215 6900.
What is the best time to visit Ma'an?
The best time to visit Ma'an is March-May and September-November. Ma'an Governorate has a hot desert climate (BWh) — extremely hot, dry summers and mild winters with occasional cold snaps and rare snow in the highest areas around Shoubak and Dana. The region receive
Do I need a visa to visit Ma'an?
Entry requirements follow Jordan rules. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport or border crossings. The Jordan Pass (from JOD 70) includes a visa and entry to over 40 attractions including Petra. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Ma'an?
The currency in Ma'an is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Ma'an?
The main language(s) spoken in Ma'an: Arabic, English (widely spoken in tourist areas). In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Ma'an?
The top attractions in Ma'an include Petra — The Treasury (Al-Khazneh), The Siq — Petra's Entrance Canyon, The Monastery (Ad-Deir), Little Petra (Siq al-Barid), and The Royal Tombs — Petra. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.