Jordan is full of surprises, and if you enjoy quiet places, fresh air, and open roads, a mountain drive from Amman to Tafileh will be a great experience. This is a slow, scenic trip through the central highlands of Jordan. You’ll get a closer look at the country’s nature, culture, and small mountain towns. If you are a German traveler who likes peaceful landscapes and self-drive trips, this road journey is for you. Our Tafileh travel guide will discuss everything you need to know to plan this road trip, from renting a car in Jordan to where to stop, what to see, and where to stay.
You should drive from Amman to Tafileh if you want to see the mountains in the south without big crowds. With your own rental car, you can take your time and enjoy the trip your way. Here are three reasons this drive is a good choice for German travelers.
This road trip lets you travel at your own speed. You don’t need to follow a group or stick to a strict plan. You can stop anytime, take photos, or stay longer in places you like. The road from Amman to Tafileh passes through quiet mountains where the air is fresh and the views are wide. For German tourists driving in Jordan, it’s a nice way to enjoy open space, peaceful roads, and nature all around.
Many tourists in Jordan go to Petra or Wadi Rum, which are beautiful but can be crowded. Tafileh is different. It is less known, which means it is quieter and more relaxed. You won’t find many large hotels or tourist shops here. Instead, you will see small houses, local shops, and people going about their daily lives.
Traveling by car in Jordan can help you save money because fuel prices are low. In Tafileh, guesthouses and eco-lodges are much cheaper than hotels in cities like Amman or Aqaba. These places often include breakfast. Meals in local restaurants are fresh and low-cost. They are made with seasonal vegetables, lentils, and grilled meats.
Jordan has four seasons, but they feel different from what you're used to in Germany. The best months for this drive are March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is warm but not too hot. Spring brings green hills and blooming flowers along the roadside. Autumn gives you dry air, clear skies, and soft light, perfect for photos. You’ll enjoy the views more without extreme temperatures.
June to August is summer. It gets very hot, especially around noon. You can still drive, but it’s better to travel early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Make sure your car has good air conditioning. December to February is winter. Some days are cold and rainy. In the mountains, fog and light rain can make roads slippery. If you drive in winter, check the weather slowly before leaving.
Spring and autumn are the safest months for driving. Roads are dry, and there’s little wind or fog. In summer, the heat can tire you, so always keep water in your car. Driving during winter is fine, but watch for rain and fog in high areas. The mountain roads do not get snow, but wet surfaces can still be risky. The King’s Highway is well-maintained and easy to follow. Fill your gas tank before leaving Amman, as gas stations are rare in remote mountain areas.
The total distance from Amman to Tafileh is about 184 kilometers, and the drive takes around 2 hours and 24 minutes. Start your drive in Amman, heading west toward Al-Kuroum Street. From there, continue through Zahran Street and Abdoun Bridge, then follow Prince Hashim Street. Signs will point you toward Airport Road (Route 35).
Join Desert Highway (Route 15) and drive south for about 110 kilometers. This main highway is wide and well-maintained. When you reach the At-Tafilah exit, take it and continue on At-Tafilah New Highway for about 37 kilometers. This stretch leads through hills and valleys, with a few sharp curves and changes in elevation. As you approach Tafileh, pass through two roundabouts, then follow Route 35 into the town.
There are a few great places to stop on the road from Amman to Tafileh. These stops let you rest, enjoy the view, and learn more about Jordan’s history and nature.
Madaba is a small city that is 50 minutes from Amman. It is best known for the mosaic map of the Holy Land inside St. George’s Church. This map is over 1,000 years old and shows how people saw the region in the past. The streets in Madaba are calm, and the town feels very local. You can take a short walk, visit a museum, or have coffee in one of the small cafés before you continue your trip south.
Around the midpoint of your trip, you will come to the Wadi Mujib viewpoint. Here, you can see a wide view of a deep canyon, often called the Grand Canyon of Jordan. There is a small platform where you can take photos. It can get windy, so hold your phone or camera tightly. There are no shops or restrooms here, so don’t plan to stay long.
Not far from Tafileh, you’ll reach Dana Village, near the edge of the Dana Biosphere Reserve. This village has stone houses and narrow paths, which feel like a step back in time. Travelers often stop here for the mountain views or short hikes. Small lodges and cafés are available if you need a break. Dana is a great final stop before reaching Tafileh.
Tafileh is a city in southern Jordan, between rugged mountains and green valleys. It is located along the King’s Highway and is often overlooked by tourists rushing to Petra or Aqaba. You’ll find cool weather in summer, simple guesthouses, friendly locals, and quiet roads perfect for exploring by car. The region is known for its natural hot springs, fertile farmlands, and untouched hiking trails that lead through some of Jordan’s oldest terrain. Here’s what you can see and do while visiting Tafileh.
Dana Biosphere Reserve is Jordan’s largest protected natural area. It covers over 300 square kilometers of mountains, valleys, and cliffs. Depending on your comfort level, you can choose from short trails or longer guided hikes. The area is home to over 800 plant species and many animals, including ibex and eagles. You don’t need to be a trained hiker. There are easy trails that offer great views. Spring and autumn are the best seasons because of the cooler weather and clear skies. Most trails start near Dana Village, where you’ll also find small eco-lodges.
Afra Hot Springs is a relaxing stop just a short drive from Tafileh town. Natural hot water flows all year, bubbling into open pools surrounded by trees and quiet hills. The water is rich in minerals and is believed to help with muscle pain, joint stiffness, and stress relief. The pools are shallow, so sitting and relaxing is safe, even if you’re not a strong swimmer. Visit in the early morning or just before sunset for the most pleasant weather. The area stays cool in the evening, and the steam from the warm water makes it feel cozy. Afra is a great way to unwind after hiking or a long day of driving.
Tafileh’s town center is simple, calm, and full of local life. You’ll walk past fruit stalls, spice shops, and family-owned cafés serving falafel and tea. It is safe and easy to explore, especially in the morning or late afternoon. The streets are small but walkable, and the pace is slow. Grab a snack or try Jordan’s national dish, mansaf, if you find a local diner serving it. There’s a lot to enjoy just by watching how people live here. You may not find souvenirs, but you’ll find real culture. If you’re the kind of traveler who wants more than just photos, this is your kind of place.
East of Tafileh town lies Al-Hasa, a small area known for its underground springs and green farms. Unlike most of Jordan’s dry terrain, this region stays lush. Water from natural sources flows into irrigation channels, feeding crops like olives, grapes, and vegetables. If you drive through Al-Hasa, you’ll see small farms, stone houses, and maybe even herds of sheep in the fields. It’s a good place to see a quieter side of Jordanian farm life. Stop by a roadside stall and buy fresh fruit, or just enjoy the change in scenery from rocks to greenery.
Wadi Ghuweir is one of Jordan’s most stunning hiking trails and starts not far from Dana village. This canyon hike mixes rocky cliffs, green pockets, and running streams. The trail includes climbing sections, so wear proper shoes. While it’s not for complete beginners, guided tours are available to make it easier and safer. The trail offers a full day of hiking through dramatic views, hanging gardens, and narrow passages. For those looking for something more adventurous than a walk, this is one of Tafileh’s best-kept secrets.
For a deeper local experience, join Bedouin Journeys Adventure, a small trekking group based in Dana. Run by a local Bedouin guide, this service offers multi-day hikes that take you from Dana to Petra, with stops at secret spots along the way. You’ll learn about Bedouin life, cook over open fire, and sleep under the stars. It’s a slow but rich way to move through southern Jordan’s natural beauty. The walks are carefully guided and built for small groups who want more than just sightseeing.
Guesthouses and eco-lodges in Tafileh offer quiet, local stays for travelers who enjoy peaceful nights and simple comforts. Most are run by families and located near nature, giving you easy access to hiking trails, great views, and warm meals. These stays are not luxury hotels, but they offer clean rooms, home-cooked food, and friendly hosts.
Dana Guesthouse sits inside Dana Nature Reserve, offering beautiful views of Wadi Dana. The guesthouse has 22 rooms, many with balconies or terraces where you can relax and enjoy the mountain air. Some rooms have traditional decor, including wooden cupboards and comfortable sofas. The stle is simple and rustic, but welcoming. Located in the old town of Basira, it’s just a five-minute walk from the town center. The guesthouse also serves home-cooked meals and warm tea, and staff can help arrange hikes or give advice on routes. Dana Guesthouse offers a peaceful stay with big views, easy comfort, and a deep connection to nature.
Wadi Dana Eco-Camp is 0.6 miles from Dana Village and overlooks the Wadi Dana valley. The camp is working toward full eco-status and focuses on responsible tourism. It offers 4 en-suite double chalets and nine tents with shared facilities. You can join guided hikes, take part in local culture, and enjoy stargazing under clear desert skies. The camp is near the start of the Wadi Dana Trail, which is convenient if you plan to go hiking.
Dana Tower Hotel in Dana Village features 20 rooms, each with a unique name like Cave Room, Sunset Royal, or Meditation Room. Many rooms highlight traditional village decor, with stone walls, handcrafted wood, and simple finishes. The hotel is built into the cliffs, giving it a cave-like feel and wide views across the valley. Guests gather for dinner and breakfast in a shared tent. The hotel offers WiFi, free breakfast, and parking. The owner offers local advice and help with travel plans.
Al-Nawatef Eco Camp is perched above the valley inside Dana Nature Reserve, about 3.2 km from Khirbet Baddah. It’s a quiet place designed for nature lovers, offering hiking, horse riding, and cycling right from the site. The camp features a sun terrace, a garden, a simple restaurant, free WiFi, and even free bicycles for guests. Accommodations include tents and huts. The sunset viewpoint is just a five-minute walk from the camp.
This road trip from Amman to Tafileh is peaceful and full of real moments. You’re not rushing from one tourist site to another. You’re driving through quiet hills, stopping in small towns, and seeing a side of Jordan that many people miss. And if you enjoy space, nature, and freedom, it’s a perfect way to explore at your own pace.
Final Rentals is a car rental platform that offers affordable prices, fast booking, and many cars to choose from. You can pick up your car in Amman and start your trip right away. No stress. No delays. Just a smooth way to take control of your journey.
