Planning a trip to Egypt and Jordan requires careful preparation across visas, transportation, budgeting, and booking timelines. This guide covers everything practical you need to organise a smooth and well-structured journey from entry requirements and how to travel between the two countries, to currency, packing, and on-the-ground tips.
If you are still deciding whether Egypt or Jordan suits your travel style, or whether to visit one or both, start with our Egypt vs Jordan travel comparison before returning here for the logistics.
For those who prefer a fully organized experience, Tripidays offers curated Egypt and Jordan Vacations and extended Egypt multi-country holidays that combine Egypt with other destinations into a single seamless itinerary.
How Many Days Do You Need for Egypt and Jordan?
The right trip length depends on your travel style and how deeply you want to explore each destination.
Most travellers spend between 10 and 14 days across both countries. A 7 to 10-day trip covers the major highlights of Cairo, Petra, and Wadi Rum at a faster pace. Two weeks or more allows you to include a Nile Cruise, explore Luxor and Aswan, and spend a more relaxed time in Jordan, including the Dead Sea. Travellers who want a balanced structure often choose a 10-day Cairo Nile Cruise and Petra tour.
Egypt and Jordan Visa Requirements
Understanding entry requirements before you travel is essential for both countries.
Egypt Visa: Most nationalities can obtain an Egyptian e-visa online before departure or a visa on arrival at major entry points. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel dates. Applying for an e-visa in advance is recommended to avoid delays on arrival.
Jordan Visa: Many nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival in Jordan. The Jordan Pass is worth considering, as it includes entry to major attractions, including Petra, and can waive the visa fee if you stay a minimum number of nights. Check eligibility before purchasing, as the savings can be significant.
Always verify the latest entry requirements through your government’s official travel advisory before departure, as visa policies can change.
How to Travel Between Egypt and Jordan
The most practical options for travelling between Egypt and Jordan are:
By Air, a direct flight between Cairo International Airport and Queen Alia International Airport in Amman takes approximately one to one and a half hours. Flights are frequent and operated by multiple carriers. This is the fastest and most commonly used option for travellers combining both countries.
By Ferry A less commonly used but available route is the ferry crossing between Nuweiba in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula and Aqaba in southern Jordan. The slow ferry takes several hours; a faster option is also available. This route suits travellers who want to include the Sinai or who are travelling overland through the region.
By Land Border, the Taba border crossing connects Egypt’s Sinai with southern Jordan and is used by some independent travellers. This route requires more planning and additional travel time, but is an option for those exploring the region at a slower pace.
For most travellers on a standard 10 to 15 day trip, flying between Cairo and Amman is the most efficient choice. For those seeking a more immersive experience, opt for a Nile cruise and Petra small group tour that combines guided sightseeing with free time.
Getting Around Within Each Country
Egypt’s domestic flights are the most practical option for covering Egypt’s long distances, particularly between Cairo and Luxor or Aswan. A Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan is both a mode of transport and one of the highlights of any Egypt itinerary, allowing you to visit temples and historical sites along the river. In Cairo, private transfers or guided transport are recommended for navigating the city efficiently.
Jordan is a compact country, which makes it significantly easier to navigate than Egypt. Private transfers or guided tours are the most convenient way to travel between Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. Public transport exists but is limited in coverage for the major tourist routes.
Currency, Budget Planning, and Costs
Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Egypt is generally the more affordable of the two countries; accommodation, food, and attraction entry fees are budget-friendly by international standards. Cash is widely used, particularly outside major hotels and tourist areas.
Jordan uses the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Jordan is slightly more expensive, particularly for major attraction entry fees such as Petra. The Jordan Pass helps offset these costs significantly if you plan to visit multiple sites. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and larger restaurants, but carrying cash is advisable for smaller towns and markets.
General Budget Planning When budgeting for the full trip, account for internal flights in Egypt, Nile Cruise costs if applicable, the Jordan Pass, accommodation across both countries, and guided tour fees if not travelling independently. Building a per-day budget for each country separately helps avoid underestimating Jordan’s higher daily costs. Choosing the right operator is an important part of planning, so we recommend checking our guide on the best tour companies for Egypt and Jordan before booking your trip.
When to Book and Seasonal Planning
The best time to visit Egypt and Jordan is between October and April, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing.
- May to September: Very hot, especially in desert regions
- December to February: Peak travel season with mild weather
- March and October: Ideal balance of good weather and fewer crowds
Typical Travel Route for Egypt and Jordan
A standard combined itinerary follows this general sequence:
- Cairo — Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, Egyptian Museum
- Luxor and Aswan — Nile Cruise, Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Luxor Temple
- Amman — Capital of Jordan, Citadel, Roman Theatre
- Petra — UNESCO World Heritage Site, rock-cut architecture
- Wadi Rum — Desert landscape, jeep tours, Bedouin camps
- Dead Sea — Floating experience, relaxation
The direction of travel, whether to start in Egypt or Jordan, depends on flight availability and personal preference. Both sequences work well logistically.
Essential Packing and On-the-Ground Tips
- Hydration: Drink bottled water throughout both countries, particularly in Egypt, where heat and outdoor activity increase fluid loss
- Clothing: Lightweight clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is recommended for visiting religious and historical sites in both countries
- SIM cards: Local SIM cards are affordable and available at airports in both Cairo and Amman, useful for navigation, communication, and translation apps
- Tipping: Tipping is common in Egypt for guides, drivers, and small services carry small denomination cash for this purpose
- Respect local customs: Dress modestly and be mindful of local traditions, particularly in traditional or religious settings
Safety: Both Egypt and Jordan are established tourist destinations. Read our guide on travelling safely to Jordan for current practical advice before departure
Final Thoughts
With the right preparation, combining Egypt and Jordan into one trip is highly manageable and deeply rewarding. The key is understanding the logistics early, particularly visas, internal transport, and booking timelines, so that the journey itself runs smoothly.
Whether you choose an independent itinerary or a fully guided experience through Tripidays, having a clear operational plan in place lets you focus entirely on the experience once you arrive.
