Arriving two days early before an OAT trip to Jordan and Egypt. Exploring things to do in the two days prior to the tour. Tour includes the main attractions in Amann but not the Dead Sea. Any suggestions?

The most worthwhile day trip out of Amman may be to Jerash, a vast archaeological site from Roman times. The Dead Sea is reachable for a day trip from Amman as well, although I don't know if any of the hotel resorts allow day visitors.

I would also encourage you to visit Jerash, a truly remarkable Roman site. It looks like you can get a guide through the Get Your Guide site to take you to both places in a day. Or, you can contact any private tour companies and request a driver for the day.

https://www.getyourguide.com/amman-l...y-tour-t56743/

Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the world.If you're interested in history and unique desert landscapes, consider a trip to the Umayyad Desert Castles.
These early Islamic-era castles, such as Qasr Amra (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), offer a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Jerash and may be Gadara and Pella for sure.
Otherwise check Madaba and the mt Nebo area.

I am leaving soon on this 10 day tour that is only Jordan. We will be moving to these these locations near Amman, but I suspect you could so some of them as a day trip from Amman.

Here's the map of the itinerary.

https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/...-and-itinerary

Hi Milliebest,

Yes, it is absolutely feasible to get a driver and visit the Dead Sea as a day trip from Amman. The drive takes about 1 hour each way, making it a convenient and relaxing excursion before your OAT tour begins.

If your OAT itinerary doesn’t already include these sites, you can consider the following options for your extra days in Amman. You can also combine a morning in Amman with an afternoon trip to Jerash for a well-rounded experience or other suggested sites below:

Option 1: Day Trip to the Dead Sea (Highly Recommended)

✔ Driving time: ~1 hour each way.

✔ What to do: Float in the salty water, apply the famous mineral-rich mud, and relax at a beach resort.

✔ Best experience: Visit a hotel beach (such as the Mövenpick, Marriott, Crowne Plaza, or Hilton) for access to showers, pools, and sunbeds.

✔ Alternative option: Amman Beach offers public access but with more basic facilities.

*** Bonus Add-On:

➤ If you’re up for some adventure, you can also visit Wadi Mujib for the Siq Trail (open April to October). This is a short but fun water hike through a canyon, about 20 minutes south from the Dead Sea.

➤ Mount Nebo & Madaba: Explore Madaba, famous for its Byzantine mosaics and visit Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land ( 40 minutes from the Dead Sea).

➤ Ma’in Hot Springs: A natural thermal spa in a scenic canyon (40 minutes from the Dead Sea). It’s perfect for soaking in warm, mineral-rich waterfalls and is especially great in cooler months.

Option 2: Exploring Amman & Jerash (A Perfect Combo)

Since your OAT tour covers Amman’s main attractions, you might want to explore lesser-known areas of the city or combine your time with a visit to Jerash.

Exploring Lesser-Known Amman

Since OAT will already cover the main attractions in Amman, you might want to visit:

Choose from the following sites based on your interests:

1️⃣ King Abdullah I Mosque – A blue-domed mosque open to non-Muslim visitors.

2️⃣ Royal Automobile Museum – Showcases Jordan’s royal history through vintage cars.

3️⃣ Jordan Museum – Home to the Dead Sea Scrolls. (Closed on Tuesdays.)

4️⃣ Darat al Funun – A great stop for arts and culture lovers.

5️⃣ Royal Automobile Museum – Showcases Jordan’s royal history through vintage cars.

6️⃣ Qasr al-Abed (Optional, if time allows) – A unique Hellenistic palace in Wadi Seer (30 min outside Amman).

7️⃣ Downtown Amman Walk + Street Food – Try falafel at Hashem and kunafa at Habeeba Sweets.

Afternoon: Half-Day Trip to Jerash

Leave Amman around 1:00–2:00 PM and drive 50–60 minutes north to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world.

Top Highlights:

✔ Hadrian’s Arch

✔ The Oval Plaza

✔ Colonnaded Street

✔ North & South Theaters

Option 3: Jerash & Ajloun Castle (For History Lovers)

✔ Jerash – Explore one of the best-preserved Roman cities (~50 min from Amman).

✔ Ajloun Castle – A historic Islamic-era fortress (30 min from Jerash) with breathtaking valley views.

This can be done as a full-day trip or combined with lunch at a local restaurant in Jerash or Ajloun.

Option 4: As-Salt – A UNESCO Heritage Town (For Cultural Immersion)

✔ Experience heritage houses, charming streets, and local markets.

✔ 40 minutes from Amman, much less touristy than other destinations.

✔ Visit a traditional café or take a guided walking tour to meet locals.

Hiring a Driver

✔ Yes, hiring a private driver for the Dead Sea, Jerash, Ajloun, or As-Salt is common and easy to arrange.

✔ For Jerash, Ajloun, or As-Salt, a driver is the most convenient option.

Final Recommendation

✔ Best for relaxation: Dead Sea day trip (with an optional Wadi Mujib stop if the season allows).

✔ Best for history & sightseeing: Jerash & Ajloun or Amman + Jerash Combo.

✔ Best for cultural immersion: As-Salt or exploring hidden gems in Amman.

This plan gives you the best mix of history, relaxation, and cultural experiences before your OAT tour begins.

Good Luck!

Thanks for the message above!
I am also travelling here so that would be really helpful!

You're most welcome! I'm glad you found the information helpful. If you're also planning extra time in Jordan before or after your OAT tour, these options can give you a well-rounded experience. Jordan has so much to offer, from stunning historical sites to breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences. I'm sure you'll have a great time exploring our beloved country.