Jordan Wanderer vs. Jordan Explorer: Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re planning a trip to Jordan and are trying to decide between Jordan Wanderer (70 JOD) and Jordan Explorer (75 JOD), here’s the short answer:
For just 5 JOD more, Jordan Explorer is the better choice for almost everyone.
That extra 5 JOD gives you a second consecutive day in Petra, allowing you to explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World without rushing. Unless you’re absolutely certain you’ll only spend one day in Petra, Jordan Explorer offers significantly better value.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Jordan Wanderer | Jordan Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Price | 70 JOD | 75 JOD |
| Petra Access | 1 day | 2 consecutive days |
| Entry to 40+ attractions | ✅ | ✅ |
| Visa fee waiver (eligible travelers) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Digital brochures | ✅ | ✅ |
| Bethany add-on available | ✅ | ✅ |
| Free 1916 Train Ride add-on | ✅ | ✅ |
| Best for | Tight schedules | Most travelers |
The only difference between the two passes is the number of consecutive days you can enter Petra. Everything else remains the same. (jordanpass.jo)
Why Jordan Explorer Is Usually the Better Deal
For an additional 5 JOD, Jordan Explorer gives you another full day inside Petra.
Considering that a standalone second day at Petra would normally cost much more than 5 JOD, upgrading is one of the best value decisions you can make.
Many travelers underestimate the size of Petra. The walk from the Visitor Center to the Treasury is only the beginning. Beyond that lie the Royal Tombs, Colonnaded Street, Great Temple, Byzantine Church, Monastery, High Place of Sacrifice, and numerous scenic viewpoints spread across a vast archaeological landscape.
Petra Is Bigger Than Most People Expect
Here’s a realistic breakdown:
| Itinerary | Wanderer (1 Day) | Explorer (2 Days) |
|---|---|---|
| Treasury | ✅ | ✅ |
| Street of Facades | ✅ | ✅ |
| Royal Tombs | ✅ | ✅ |
| Great Temple | ✅ | ✅ |
| Monastery | Possible but rushed | Comfortable |
| High Place of Sacrifice | Usually rushed | Comfortable |
| Back trails & viewpoints | Limited | Plenty of time |
| Photography at different times | Difficult | Easy |
| Relaxed lunch and breaks | Limited | Much easier |
Many visitors walk 15–25 km during a full Petra visit. Splitting that over two days makes the experience significantly more enjoyable.
When Jordan Wanderer Makes Sense
Jordan Wanderer is still a great option if:
- You’re visiting Jordan for only 2–3 days.
- Petra is just one stop on a packed itinerary.
- You only want to see the main highlights.
- You’re comfortable walking long distances in a single day.
- You’re on a very tight budget.
If your plan is simply:
- Enter through the Siq
- See the Treasury
- Walk to the Royal Tombs
- Visit the Monastery
- Return
then one day may be enough.
When Jordan Explorer Is the Better Choice
Jordan Explorer is recommended if:
- You’re staying in Jordan for 4 days or more.
- You enjoy history and archaeology.
- You like taking photos without rushing.
- You want to hike to viewpoints.
- You’re traveling with children or older family members.
- You prefer a relaxed pace.
The extra day lets you appreciate Petra instead of constantly watching the clock.
Cost Difference: Only 5 JOD
| Pass | Price |
|---|---|
| Jordan Wanderer | 70 JOD |
| Jordan Explorer | 75 JOD |
| Difference | 5 JOD |
For less than the price of a meal, you gain another entire day at one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. (jordanpass.jo)
Remember: Petra Days Must Be Consecutive
A common mistake is thinking you can use the second Petra day later in your trip.
You can’t.
If you purchase Jordan Explorer, your two Petra visits must be used on two consecutive days. The same rule applies to Jordan Expert’s three-day option. (jordanpass.jo)
Both Passes Include the Same Additional Benefits
Regardless of whether you choose Wanderer or Explorer, you’ll receive:
- Entry to more than 40 attractions across Jordan.
- Eligibility for the tourist visa fee waiver if you purchase before arrival and meet the minimum stay requirement.
- The option to add Bethany Beyond the Jordan at a discounted rate during checkout.
- The option to add the Journey Through 1916 train experience at no extra charge when available.
- Free downloadable digital brochures. (jordanpass.jo)
What Neither Pass Includes
| Attraction | Included? |
|---|---|
| Petra daytime entry | ✅ |
| Petra by Night | ❌ |
| Mount Nebo | ❌ |
| Wadi Mujib | ❌ |
| Jeep tours in Wadi Rum | ❌ |
| Camel rides | ❌ |
One of the biggest misconceptions is that Petra by Night is included. It isn’t—you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket if you want to attend the evening experience. (Visit Petra)
Real-World Scenarios
Choose Jordan Wanderer if…
- You arrive in Wadi Musa the night before.
- You plan to spend one intensive day in Petra.
- You’re heading to Wadi Rum the following morning.
- Your itinerary is tightly scheduled.
Choose Jordan Explorer if…
- Petra is the highlight of your Jordan trip.
- You want to see the Monastery without rushing.
- You plan to hike to multiple viewpoints.
- You enjoy taking breaks, photography, or exploring side trails.
- You don’t want to leave feeling like you missed half the site.
Final Verdict
For most travelers, Jordan Explorer is the smarter purchase.
The additional 5 JOD buys you another day inside Petra, giving you the freedom to experience the site at a comfortable pace and discover areas that many one-day visitors never reach.
Jordan Wanderer is still an excellent option for travelers on a tight schedule, but if your itinerary allows for two days in Petra, **Jordan Explorer delivers substantially better value for a very small additional cost.
Planning Your Jordan Itinerary?
At Zoor Tours, we often recommend Jordan Explorer to first-time visitors because it strikes the perfect balance between value and flexibility. Whether you’re combining Petra with Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, Jerash, or Amman, our team can help design an itinerary that maximizes your time and ensures you get the most from your Jordan Pass.
