6 Jordan Travel Guide Books to Navigate the Kingdom Like a Pro

Discover Jordan Travel Guide books written by leading experts Jenny Walker, Paul Clammer, William J. Phillips, and more for authentic travel experiences

Updated on June 28, 2025
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What if your next trip to Jordan could be transformed by the perfect guidebook? Jordan’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture demand more than a cursory glance—travelers need expert advice to navigate its treasures confidently.

This curated selection draws from authors who combine deep local knowledge with practical travel expertise. From Jenny Walker and Paul Clammer’s trusted Lonely Planet insights to William J. Phillips’s cultural deep dive into Petra, these books offer nuanced perspectives that go beyond surface-level tips.

While these expertly authored guides provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific travel style, pace, and interests might consider creating a personalized Jordan Travel Guide book that builds on these insights for a truly unique experience.

Best for detailed cultural insights
Lonely Planet has built a solid reputation as a trusted travel media company since 1973, offering practical and inspiring information for all types of travelers. With this guide, Jenny Walker and Paul Clammer leverage their expertise to provide you with the most current and relevant advice for exploring Jordan. Their focus on updated details, cultural insights, and comprehensive planning tools makes this a valuable companion for anyone ready to experience Jordan’s rich heritage and landscapes.
Lonely Planet Jordan (Travel Guide) book cover

by Jenny Walker, Paul Clammer··You?

2021·344 pages·Jordan History, Jordan Travel Guide, Middle East Travel Guide, Travel, Culture

When Jenny Walker and Paul Clammer crafted this guide, they tapped into decades of travel expertise to deliver a resource that goes beyond typical sightseeing tips. You learn precise details about Jordan’s top attractions like Petra and Wadi Rum, alongside lesser-known cultural insights and practical tools such as updated maps, transport options, and accommodation planning. The book’s structure helps you tailor your trip whether you want to explore iconic sites or venture off the beaten path. If you’re aiming to navigate Jordan confidently with both historical context and contemporary travel advice, this guide offers exactly that.

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Best for candid travel logistics
Rough Guides is a leading travel publisher known for its accurate, up-to-date content and authoritative contemporary writing. They have been inspiring travelers for over 35 years with over 30 million copies sold globally, bringing trusted expertise to this guide. Their commitment to honest, detailed recommendations and practical tools makes this book a valuable resource for anyone planning to explore Jordan's rich history and diverse landscapes.
The Rough Guide to Jordan (Travel Guide with free eBook) book cover

by Rough Guides··You?

2019·416 pages·Jordan History, Jordan Travel Guide, Travel, Culture, History

Rough Guides brings decades of travel publishing expertise to this detailed exploration of Jordan, blending candid insights with practical advice. You learn not just where to go, but how to navigate the diverse regions—from the Crusader fortress of Aljoun to the submerged wonders of the Red Sea—while understanding local customs and history. The book's candid reviews and full-color maps equip you to plan efficiently, whether seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures or cultural highlights like Petra and Jerash. If you're aiming to grasp Jordan’s rich heritage alongside modern travel logistics, this guide offers a thorough companion for your journey.

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Best for custom exploration plans
This AI-created book on Jordan travel is designed around your interests and knowledge level. You share what aspects of Jordan’s culture and history intrigue you most, and this custom book is created to focus precisely on those areas. By tailoring the content to your goals and background, it offers a unique learning path through Jordan’s rich heritage that standard guides can’t provide. This personalized approach helps you dive deeper and prepare more meaningfully for your journey.
2025·50-300 pages·Jordan Travel Guide, Jordan Overview, Cultural Heritage, Historical Sites, Local Traditions

This tailored book explores Jordan's rich cultural tapestry and historical legacy, focusing on your unique interests and travel goals. It presents a curated journey through the kingdom’s ancient sites, vibrant traditions, and diverse landscapes, offering insights that resonate with your background and curiosity. The book reveals layers of Jordan's past and present, from Petra’s archaeological wonders to the customs and stories of its people, creating a meaningful connection beyond typical travel guides. By tailoring content specifically to your preferences, it ensures your exploration of Jordan is deeply informed and personally engaging, making your learning experience both immersive and rewarding.

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Best for history and archaeology lovers
William J. Phillips is a travel expert and historian known for his deep knowledge of cultural heritage sites. His years of experience in travel writing and passion for history shine through in this guide, offering you an informed and thoughtful journey into Petra's past and present. Phillips’s expertise makes this more than a typical travel guide—it’s a gateway to understanding the significance of one of the world's most remarkable archaeological treasures.
2023·157 pages·Jordan Travel Guide, Travel, History, Jordan Travel, Cultural Heritage

Drawing from his extensive background as a travel expert and historian, William J. Phillips crafted this guide to illuminate Petra's rich cultural tapestry and historical significance. You gain detailed insights into Petra's origins, Nabatean architecture, and the engineering marvels that allowed the city to thrive in the desert, alongside practical travel advice like optimal visiting times and nearby attractions such as Wadi Rum. The book balances historical narrative with useful tips for planning your visit, making it a solid companion if you're intrigued by ancient civilizations and want a deeper understanding of Petra beyond typical tourist highlights. However, if you're seeking a purely logistical guide focused on accommodations or dining, this leans more toward cultural exploration than exhaustive travel listings.

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Best for travel photography enthusiasts
This book offers a unique perspective on two of Jordan’s most famous destinations, blending travel guide elements with photography expertise. Mahmoud Ali’s approach goes beyond typical guidebooks by sharing his own experiences and emotional ties to Wadi Rum and Petra, enriching your visit with both visual inspiration and practical smartphone photography tips. It also highlights the cinematic allure of these landscapes, making it a fitting choice for travelers eager to see Jordan through a creative lens and deepen their appreciation for its natural and cultural treasures.
2022·40 pages·Jordan Travel Guide, Tourism, Photography Tips, Smartphone Photography, Desert Landscapes

Unlike most Jordan travel guides that focus solely on logistics, Mahmoud Ali brings a photographer's eye and deep personal connection to the landscapes of Wadi Rum and Petra. You’ll explore vivid descriptions and practical tips on capturing these iconic sites through smartphone photography, alongside cinematic history insights, such as how "Lawrence of Arabia" and "The Martian" used these locations. This book suits travelers who want more than directions—they seek an immersive visual and emotional experience of Jordan’s natural and historical wonders.

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Best for immersive local culture
Peter J. Rick is a celebrated author in travel guides, renowned for his immersive storytelling and deep cultural insight. His passion for diverse destinations inspired this guide, designed to take you through Jordan's varied landscapes and rich heritage. Rick's expertise offers you a well-rounded companion to explore Jordan beyond the usual tourist paths, helping you connect with the local culture and history on a meaningful level.
2023·118 pages·Jordan Travel Guide, Middle East Travel Guide, Travel, Local Culture, History

Peter J. Rick's extensive experience in travel writing shines through in this guide, born from his passion for immersing readers in Jordan's rich tapestry. You'll navigate everything from Petra's ancient rose-red façades to Wadi Rum's sweeping desert landscapes, gaining practical knowledge on local culture, cuisine, and hidden gems along the way. The book offers detailed chapters on must-visit sites and insider tips for connecting with locals, making it particularly useful for travelers eager to engage deeply with Jordanian life. Whether you're planning a historical tour or an adventurous escape, this guide equips you with the insights to enrich your journey without overwhelming you with superfluous details.

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Best for custom travel plans
This AI-created book on Jordan travel is written based on your background, interests, and travel goals. You share the aspects of Jordan you want to explore—whether historical sites, desert adventures, or cultural experiences—and your skill level with travel planning. The book is then created to focus on your personal journey and preferences, making your 30-day adventure in Jordan both manageable and unforgettable. This tailored approach ensures you get practical, relevant guidance without sifting through generic advice.
2025·50-300 pages·Jordan Travel Guide, Jordan Travel, Itinerary Planning, Cultural Sites, Adventure Activities

This personalized book offers a tailored 30-day itinerary and travel strategies for exploring Jordan’s rich landscapes and cultural heritage. It examines key destinations from Petra to Wadi Rum, revealing immersive experiences that match your interests and travel style. By focusing on your background and goals, this guide covers essential historical sites, adventure activities, and local customs, ensuring a journey that feels uniquely yours. The tailored approach helps you navigate complex travel options, providing focused knowledge that enhances planning and enriches your adventure. With detailed daily plans and travel insights, this book transforms the challenge of organizing a month-long trip into an exciting, manageable exploration. It offers a personalized pathway through Jordan’s diverse attractions, making your experience both memorable and deeply connected to your preferences.

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3,000+ Books Created
Best for eco and heritage exploration
Carole French is an accomplished international travel journalist specializing in the Middle East. Her expertise shines through in this guide, which vividly brings Jordan to life by combining historical insights with practical travel information. French's deep knowledge of the region equips you with the cultural context and detailed descriptions needed to appreciate Jordan's diverse attractions, from ancient sites to modern cities.
Jordan (Bradt Travel Guide) book cover

by Carole French··You?

2012·320 pages·Jordan Travel Guide, Middle East Travel Guide, Travel, Culture, History

Carole French leverages her extensive experience as an international travel journalist specializing in the Middle East to offer a rich and nuanced portrait of Jordan. Her guide goes beyond mere logistics to immerse you in the country's vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty, with detailed chapters on cities like Amman and Aqaba. You'll gain insights into Jordan's eco projects, desert treks, and bustling markets, helping you navigate both popular sites and hidden gems. This book benefits travelers who want a well-rounded understanding of Jordan, balancing practical travel tips with cultural context.

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Conclusion

These six books collectively highlight Jordan’s multifaceted appeal—historical depth, cultural richness, breathtaking landscapes, and insider travel tips. If you crave detailed cultural insights and practical planning, start with Lonely Planet Jordan and The Rough Guide to Jordan. For history buffs fascinated by Petra, William J. Phillips’s guide offers unparalleled depth.

Photography lovers and those drawn to Jordan’s cinematic landscapes will find Mahmoud Ali’s book an inspiring companion, while Peter J. Rick’s guide immerses you in the local culture and hidden gems. Carole French’s exploration of eco-tourism and heritage rounds out this well-rounded collection.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Jordan Travel Guide book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. These books can help you accelerate your learning journey and unlock the best of Jordan on your terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which Jordan guidebook should I start with?

Start with 'Lonely Planet Jordan' for a balanced mix of cultural insights and practical tips. It’s approachable and covers top attractions plus hidden gems, helping you build a solid foundation for your journey.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Jordan travel?

Not at all. Guides like 'The Rough Guide to Jordan' and 'Jordan' by Carole French are written to welcome newcomers, offering clear advice and cultural context without assuming prior knowledge.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can certainly pick one that matches your interests—like a history-focused traveler might choose 'Essential Petra Jordan Travel Guide.' Combining two, such as a cultural guide and a photography-focused book, can enrich your experience.

What makes these Jordan travel books different from others out there?

These books stand out for blending authoritative local knowledge with practical travel planning. Authors like Jenny Walker and William J. Phillips merge historical depth with actionable advice, offering a fuller picture of Jordan’s diverse appeal.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?

'JORDAN TRAVEL GUIDE 2023' by Peter J. Rick provides detailed chapters on must-see sites and practical tips for engaging with local culture, ideal for travelers wanting immediate, hands-on guidance.

How can I get travel advice tailored specifically to my interests in Jordan?

While expert books cover broad themes, personalized guides can focus on your travel style, pace, and goals. You might consider creating a personalized Jordan Travel Guide book to complement these expert insights with tailored recommendations.

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