Best of Jordan
Explore the highlights of Jordan on a captivating journey. From the ancient city of Petra to the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and beyond!
Laura Pattara | 1 May 2025
If you're dreaming of epic desert adventures, Nile cruises, and seeing the Pyramids of Giza or Petra, you might be wondering: is it safe to visit Egypt and Jordan in 2025? Fair question! Given the shifting political climate in parts of the Middle East, concerns are natural. The great news? With fresh info, local know-how, and a few smart habits, you can look forward to a safe and unforgettable experience.
Cruising the Nile remains one of the safest and most blissfully relaxing ways to soak up the magic of Egypt. Especially aboard the MS Tamr Henna, pictured above!
In this article, we’ll cover:
Both Egypt and Jordan remain open to travellers in 2025, and tourism is very much alive and well. While the region can experience political shifts, the areas most travellers visit—like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Petra, and the Dead Sea—have remained stable and safe for visitors. Tourism is a big part of life in both countries, so there’s real effort behind keeping things running smoothly. Local guides, tour operators, and hotels stay well informed and ready to adapt if anything changes.
As always, it's wise to check current government travel advisories before your trip, but on the ground, most visitors find the atmosphere relaxed, welcoming, and focused on sharing the deep history and hospitality both countries are known for.
Exploring ancient Petra is a must for anyone planning to travel to Jordan. Viva’s Rachel, pictured above, enjoying a unique vantage point of a blissful uncrowded Treasury.
Travellers who explored Egypt and Jordan with us in late 2024 had a fantastic time! Their journey from Cairo to Amman was smooth, safe, and packed with unforgettable moments, and local guides really went the extra mile to ensure they felt welcomed and secure the whole time.
They particularly loved their Nile Cruise, which was unexpectedly upgraded when two ships were combined—a happy twist that became the highlight of their trip. They also raved about their beachfront hotel in Sharm el-Sheikh, with spectacular snorkelling just steps from the boardwalk and thousands of colourful fish around a stunning coral drop.
The Red Sea is one of the most rewarding snorkel destinations in the world, and in Sharm el-Sheikh, it can be done straight off the shore.
Our guests also enjoyed a traditional meal with a Bedouin family in the Jordanian desert, adding a deeply personal touch that was immensely appreciated.
Jordan’s Wadi Rum’s otherworldly landscape has stood in for Mars in several Hollywood films—but this real-life desert is also home to ancient petroglyphs carved by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago.
Our guests also said travelling outside peak US and European holidays was fantastic. They avoided big crowds at the most popular sites and enjoyed a more relaxed vibe overall. Most importantly, though, they never once felt unsafe.
These two historical powerhouses are home to some of the world's most iconic sites, and 2025 is a particularly great year to visit. While both countries' tourism scenes have steadily recovered, visitor numbers haven't hit pre-pandemic levels just yet. Visit this year, and you'll enjoy uncrowded sites, prime service, and excellent pricing.
Is Egypt safe and rewarding? With expert guidance and iconic experiences like hot-air ballooning in Luxor, we certainly think so!
When it comes to spectacular highlights, Egypt and Jordan deliver in spades. Guided tours stick to tried-and-true routes and are led by expert local guides. All this doesn’t just deliver much deeper and more immersive experiences but also gifts you peace of mind.
If you've been dreaming of standing in the shadow of the pyramids, 2025 is the perfect time to visit Egypt. After nearly two decades in the making, the Grand Egyptian Museum—just a stone’s throw from the Pyramids of Giza—is finally set to open its doors in full on 3 July. This long-awaited $1 billion project has weathered years of delays, from political upheaval to logistical challenges, but it’s now ready to showcase one of the most impressive collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts ever assembled under one roof. With its sweeping architecture and close proximity to the pyramids, it's poised to become a new icon of Cairo—and a major highlight for history lovers planning a visit this year.
Other popular highlights include Cairo’s Egyptian Museum, Alexandria’s jaw-dropping catacombs, and the famous temples of Karnak, Edfu, and Kom Ombo. Cruising the Nile between Luxor and Aswan is scenic and very safe. A few days of relaxing by the Red Sea in Sharm el-Sheikh—complete with world-class snorkelling—makes for a perfect end to the trip.
A fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman styles, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa reveal Alexandria’s layered past—right down to its underground tombs.
Safe standouts in Jordan include Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, Jerash, Madaba, and Mt Nebo. Travelling with a guide helps you make the most of these iconic sites while adding a few special touches—like sharing a meal with a Bedouin family in the desert mentioned earlier or stargazing under Wadi Rum’s wide-open skies.
Exploring Wadi Rum with a local “guide” makes everything more fun—Rachel and furry friend in Jordan!
For a hassle-free experience, you can combine the major highlights of both countries in one itinerary—perfect if you want to maximise your time while keeping the planning logistics simple and safe.
> See Viva’s Best of Egypt and Jordan
Many women travel safely to Egypt and Jordan every year—solo, with a friend, or in a group. As with anywhere, a little cultural awareness goes a long way in feeling confident and comfortable on the road.
Dressing relatively modestly goes a long way in both countries—think loose clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially in rural areas or when visiting revered religious sites. A lightweight scarf is also handy: great for keeping sand off your face in the desert and for covering your head when entering temples. If you're travelling solo, joining a reputable tour adds real value. A trusted local guide doesn’t just deepen your experience but they’re also there when you need support. Trust your instincts, stay aware, and don’t hesitate to lean on your guide if something feels off. Many of our travellers say having a guide made them feel completely at ease.
In bigger cities like Cairo and Amman, female travellers may attract some attention—usually just curiosity. A confident, polite “no thank you” to offers of anything is often all it takes. Many women report feeling safer than expected, especially with a group.
Adopt the same smart habits you would anywhere else, and just like that, your journey through Egypt and Jordan can be smooth, safe, and full of unforgettable moments.
Scams targeting tourists can pop up in any major destination, and Egypt and Jordan are no exception. The trick is to know what to expect and stay aware.
In Egypt, unofficial “guides” often linger near temples and museums, offering unsolicited tours or facts—then asking for a tip. Best to politely decline and stick with your official guide. Some taxi drivers may also inflate fares, so agree on a price upfront or use hotel-recommended transport.
Jordan tends to feel a bit more relaxed, but you might still run into overly persistent vendors in the markets. A firm but friendly “no thank you” usually does the job.
In both places, be cautious of anyone insisting on taking you to a “special” shop or gallery—these are often commission-driven and can lead to pressure sales. Knowing about potential scams helps you keep the focus where it belongs: on soaking up your experience. That said, do note that most encounters will be genuinely warm and welcoming, with both countries renowned for their wonderful hospitality.
Vaccinations aren't usually required for either country, but it's always smart to check the latest health recommendations before you head off.
Stick to bottled or filtered water, and go easy on ice or salads (perhaps rinsed with tap water) in smaller and more laid-back restaurants. Street food can be fantastic in this region—just choose busy, clean-looking stalls. It’s worth packing hand sanitiser and a few tissues, as public toilets aren’t always well-stocked.
Pack basic meds for upset stomachs, sunburn, or dehydration—the heat in both countries can sneak up on you. Sunscreen, a sturdy water bottle, and a hat or scarf will go a long way.
Enjoying sensational local fare is one of the best parts of travel to Egypt and Jordan.
If the ancient wonders of Egypt and Jordan are calling, there's really no need to wait! With the right preparation and support, your 2025 adventure will be as safe as it is spectacular.
Let us know if you'd like help planning your journey to Egypt and Jordan. At Viva Expeditions, we’re here to make it easy from start to finish. Contact our Destination Specialists today!
Explore the highlights of Jordan on a captivating journey. From the ancient city of Petra to the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and beyond!
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