Although Arabic is the official language, English is widely understood among the educated and the upper and middle classes. As an old British colony since 1946, English is the main foreign language adopted in Jordan. It is taught alongside Arabic, which makes it a prior foreign language in Jordan. Nowadays, English language competes with Arabic in many fields such as media, business, and scientific studies. In general, we believe that people traveling to Jordan wouldn’t have any problem regarding interacting with local people. But, obviously don’t expect the local bus/taxis driver or people living in the rural areas to quote Shakespeare at you though…

When you consider visiting Jordan, the first thing you need take into consideration is how does the weather look like in Jordan when traveling? Children are more sensitive and vulnerable toward chilly and hot weather than adults. Therefore, spring is the best for a family visit. The weather is great, attractions are open and the peak tourist season brings evening amusements.

The scorching summer heat (mid-May to mid-September) is difficult for children to tolerate, restricting your activities to early morning and late afternoon. Winter months (mid-November to mid-February) can be freezing and many activities are restricted or too cold to be enjoyable. The risk of flash floods in wadis is an additional anxiety.

Despite of the summer heat, the visit to Jordan can still be enjoyable as the summer nights are extremely perfect for an evening out. Trips in Petra in Wadi Rum involved long periods of sun exposure, as it is not always easy to find shade. It is highly recommended to plan your visits early morning and late afternoon. When doing a jeep tour in Wadi Rum in the afternoon, there is nothing better than having a rewarding view over the sunset afterwards.  

No, hijab is not required in Jordan — unless entering a mosque, which you are not likely to be allowed to do unless you are Muslim. While you will see many women wearing hijab in Jordan, there are also plenty of women who do not wear them. That being said, you will notice that for the most part (outside of the international bars and restaurants), women dress conservatively, with chest, shoulders, and legs covered.

We know that the whole world is worried about the stability and safety in Middle East, and everyone is wondering if Jordan is a safe travel destination. But Jordan is a safe and visitors- friendly destination, and Jordanian government and people make every effort to keep it that way. People travelling to Jordan will not feel unsafe or threatened during their time in the kingdom and never got the impression that they were not welcomed here. Jordanian people are known for their warm hospitality, and therefore with this friendly and welcoming trait, you’ll make lots of local friends.

However, despite its blurry location, the truth is that Jordan is a country that, somehow, managed to dissociate itself from the Middle Eastern conflict so, compared to many of its neighbors in the Middle East; Jordan is an exceptionally safe country to visit. Today, it is a safe, touristic destination that welcomes any type of traveler and, with proper planning, any solo female traveler can enjoy.

Jordan maintains a steady and strong alliance with whole world, like an old oak tree firmly rooted, undisturbed by the constant ebb and flow of present-day challenges, especially in this turbulent area. Here in Jordan, we treasure peace as something sacred. Our heartfelt wish for a world where peace to reigns worldwide, enabling every person to lead lives filled with harmony and fulfillment.

We are here in Jordan believe in peace, and we are always trying to make our country oasis of peace and coexistence.

If you're looking for information on navigating Jordan, having a GPS in your car is highly recommended to ensure a smooth and hassle-free drive. Alternatively, utilizing Google Maps on your mobile phone can also be an excellent option, offering reliable guidance throughout your journeys in Jordan. You may inquire with the rental car company about the availability of GPS devices for the entire rental duration.

Upon arriving in Jordan, consider purchasing a prepaid cell phone card for added convenience. These cards provide an opportunity to stay connected with your family, friends, tour guides, drivers, car rental company, and hotels during your stay. Incoming calls are free, whether they are from abroad or another Jordanian number, and local call rates apply. Notably, there is no need for a contract with the mobile phone company, as the Jordanian SIM card and cell phone service are prepaid.

Many providers offer internet packages with 8-16 GB of data, enabling you to use Google Maps for navigation. To utilize prepaid Jordan SIM cards, ensure that your cell phone is unlocked and compatible with SIM-unlocked GSM 900 international cell phones.

Prepaid SIM cards are readily available at distributors or mobile phone shops in Jordan. Upon completing immigration and heading to the airport's reception hall, you'll find three major Jordanian cell phone operators—Zain, Orange, and Umniah—offering prepaid cell phone cards. Zain is recommended, with a cost of approximately 23 USD, inclusive of free local calls and an internet package.

When planning a trip to the captivating country of Jordan, one of the most pressing questions that often comes to mind is, "Do I need to hire a guide?" Jordan is a land steeped in history, culture, and natural wonders, offering a diverse range of experiences. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, the decision to hire a guide or go solo can greatly impact your journey. In this blog, we'll explore the pros and cons of both options, helping you make an informed choice for your Jordanian adventure.

The Benefits of Hiring a Guide:

1.     Local Expertise: Jordan boasts a rich history and a wealth of cultural intricacies. A knowledgeable guide can provide context, historical insights, and a deep understanding of the places you visit, enhancing your overall experience

2.     Language Assistance: While English is widely spoken in Jordan, a guide can assist with Arabic language nuances, making interactions with locals even more meaningful.

3.     Logistics and Navigation: Navigating Jordan's winding streets, bustling markets, and remote destinations can be challenging. A guide takes the stress out of logistics, ensuring you make the most of your time.

4.     Safety and Comfort: A guide can help ensure your safety, particularly in more remote areas like the desert. They can also handle unexpected situations, giving you peace of mind.

The Advantages of Going Solo:

1.     Flexibility: Traveling independently offers the freedom to create your itinerary, change plans on the fly, and linger longer at places that pique your interest.

2.     Cost Savings: Hiring a guide can be an added expense. Going solo allows you to tailor your trip to your budget, choosing where to splurge and where to save.

3.     Personal Connection: Exploring on your own can lead to more authentic interactions with locals, allowing you to forge connections and experiences that might be limited in a guided tour.

The Decision:
Ultimately, the choice of whether to hire a guide in Jordan depends on your travel style, preferences, and priorities. If you value convenience, in-depth knowledge, and worry-free logistics, a guide may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek adventure, flexibility, and a more personal connection with the culture, going solo can be immensely rewarding.

In many cases, a balanced approach can be ideal. Consider hiring a guide for complex sites like Petra or Wadi Rum and exploring smaller towns and less touristy areas independently. This way, you can savor the best of both worlds.

In conclusion, whether you choose to hire a guide or travel solo in Jordan, the country's undeniable beauty, rich heritage, and warm hospitality are sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart. Your journey through this mesmerizing land will be an adventure, no matter how you decide to explore it.

Obviously, like any airport in the world, Queen Alia International Airport in Jordan had ATM machines located throughout the airport, making it convenient for travelers to access cash if needed. However, when it comes to exchanging money in Jordan, you've got a few options to consider. The "best" way really depends on what suits your needs. Here's a breakdown:

Currency Exchange Offices: These are easy to find in major cities and tourist areas. They usually offer competitive rates, and you can quickly exchange your cash. Just compare rates at a few places to get a good deal.

Banks: Most major banks in Jordan offer currency exchange services. They're reliable, and their rates can be competitive. Keep in mind that banks might have limited hours and could charge service fees.

ATMs: ATMs are all over Jordan, especially in cities and tourist spots. Using your international debit or credit card at an ATM is a convenient way to get local currency. Check with your bank for international transaction fees, and give them a heads-up about your travel plans.

Hotels and Airports: While hotels and airports do offer currency exchange services, their rates might not be as favorable as banks or exchange offices. It's handy if you need a small amount of local currency when you arrive.

Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in Jordan, especially in larger places. They're a convenient way to pay for things. But it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller places that might not take cards.

Traveler's Checks: Traveler's checks aren't as common these days due to the ease of using ATMs and credit cards. Finding places that accept them might be a bit tricky.

Just remember to keep an eye on exchange rates and any fees. Shopping around for the best rates is always a smart move. Also, make sure your bank knows you're traveling so your cards work smoothly during your trip.

The check-in desk for a flight is open usually 3 hours prior to its departure time. Passengers must allow sufficient time to complete the check-in process and proceed through the security. Therefore, it is necessary to have access to the airport at least 2 hour prior your scheduled departure flight time and 3 hour before a charter flight.

Wear whatever you think is comfortable for you. We suggest you to bring the appropriate clothing to fit the season, but at some points “At the religious sites, rural areas or if you are invited at any local house for a meal”, it is recommended to wear conservative and opaque clothing for respect of the local traditional culture, and also not only to keep away from the inappropriate offence but also to be more comfortable to avoid the scorching summer heats.

Protective clothing should be worn in the summer time. Winters would be truly cold and wet, so any warm clothes would be highly recommended to bring for travelling during the winter time. It is recommended to have good sturdy walking shoes with a non-skid tread or a pair of broken-in trail shoes, boots, or sneakers which are best suited to the uneven ground & the sandstone stairway in Petra & Wadi Rum. With one pair of sandals and one pair of hiking boots you’ll be ready for almost every occasion in Jordan. It is preferable to dress in layers and wear clothing that will wick away perspiration and keep you dry and comfortable.

You might find these advices conservative and outdated once you finish your tour in Jordan & return back home. May be you would wear a tight or even a short shorts, and you won’t have a problem in the slightest! So, you might think that Women don’t need to overthink what they wear when they go to Jordan! But it really depends on where you have been?! In the hotels areas and heavily touristic places, it is more common & normal, but definitely not in the more rural areas of Amman or small villages.

Again, to put your mind at ease!
When in doubt, the key is to layer your clothing (for example, wear a cardigan over a tank top and carry a scarf for your neck). This way you are able to take off a layer when you feel comfortable in doing so and adding a layer when needed. Don’t stress too much about your attire for traveling to Jordan. With these simple advices you should feel comfortable wherever you go, plus the Jordanian people are so welcoming and hospitable which will make you even feel more at ease.

Clothes: Should be light and comfortable. T-shirts and long shorts (to protect legs) are advisable. Men and women advised to wear a bathing suit under their clothes. You should bear in mind that all your clothes will get totally wet, so don’t wear anything you don’t want to ruin. Your shoes will also get totally wet. Therefore wear something that is not slippery and also that you will not feel bad if it gets ruined with water. You may wear hiking sandals as well. Sunscreen is important along with caps. (The beginning of the hike is under the sun but later it is shaded with the mountains). You may want to bring extra outfits to change after hike.

Food & beverages: Drinking water and light food for snacking during the hike. Please make sure to bring 2 bottles of water per person and your lunch.

Please note that you are going to hike and get to get wet, so sensitive items should be put in waterproof bags. Do not wear any jewelry or expensive watches.

The reserve is not responsible for losing any belongings. And limited number of life vests is available upon request.

The Jordanian Government has approved new regulations regarding entry visas for tourists coming into Jordan. These facilitations were proposed in order to make travelling to Jordan more convenient and affordable for people of all nationalities.  Following deliberations, the following amendments were agreed upon:

§  Waiving visa fees for tourists of all nationalities coming through Jordanian tour operators whether traveling individually or in groups. The visa fee is waived on the condition that the traveler/travelers spend a minimum of two consecutive nights in Jordan.

§  Waiving visa fees for individual tourists who have organized their trip to Jordan without arrangements through a tour operator and have purchased the unified tourist site ticket on the condition that they spend a minimum of three consecutive nights in Jordan.

§  Waiving the departure tax for all low cost and charter flights leaving King Hussein International Airport – Aqaba valued at 40 JOD per passenger (approximately US$57).

Citizens of the Arab Gulf states and most Arab countries can enter Jordan directly, without a visa prior to the visit, and are not required to pay any fees. Any non-Arab tourist, who will visit Jordan, he can obtain the Jordanian visa from the airport upon arrival with limited exceptions for certain nationalities.

Some nationalities need an entry visa before traveling. The list below includes countries that require official permission but are subject to change without prior notice. It is advisable to check with the Jordanian Embassy in your country prior to departure to find the required documents to enter Jordan: Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Rwanda, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Thailand, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Moldova, Romania, Belize, Colombia and Cuba.

How to issue a visa from local embassies: the application is submitted to the Jordanian Commission in your country (embassy, ​​consulate etc…). The visa is usually issued within one day. All you need is your passport and fees.

Visitors coming or departure Jordan to or from the West Bank (Palestine) and Israel, there is three land borders crossing:

King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge: Located between Jerusalem and the Jordanian capital of Amman (near Dead Sea area and the closest to Jerusalem).

King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge is open from Sunday to Thursday between 08:00 and 00:20, and one Friday and Saturday between 08:00 and 15:00. It is closed on Yom Kippur and the first day of the Muslim Feast of Sacrifice.

But please note if you will arrive to Jordan from this border, you must have the Jordanian visa in advance, because the Jordanian visa cannot be obtained directly at this border, you may apply for the Jordanian visa in your home country, at the Jordanian Embassy in Tel Aviv or the Jordanian Representative Office in Ramallah. Also, Israeli passport holders cannot cross from this border and private cars or tour buses are not allowed to enter this border. So, the alternative is:

Sheikh Hussein (Jordan River) Border: It is located in the north of Israel and Jordan near the city of Beit Shean and it crosses the River Jordan into the center of Jordan. You can obtain the Jordanian visa on arrival from this border with limited exceptions for certain nationalities.

Sheikh Hussein (Jordan River) Border is open from Sunday to Thursday between 06:30 and 21:00, and one Friday and Saturday between 08:00 and 20:00. It is closed on Yom Kippur and the first day of the Muslim New Year.

Wadi Araba (Yitzhak Rabin) Border: It is located 324 kilometers from Amman, between Eilat and the Jordanian city of Aqaba in south Israel and Jordan. You can obtain the Jordanian visa on arrival from this border with limited exceptions for certain nationalities.

Wadi Araba (Yitzhak Rabin) Border is open from Sunday to Thursday between 06:30 and 20:00, and one Friday and Saturday between 08:00 and 20:00. It will be closed on Yom Kippur and the first day of the Muslim New Year.

The Jordan voltage is Jordan 220 V which is the same voltage used in UK, France Germany and most of European countries. The electrical frequency is 50 Hz, and the primary sockets are of two pronged European variety, but also there are variety of other sockets and plugs, such as the three pinned plug. It is recommended to bring multi-purpose adapter. The American 110 volt appliances require both a voltage converter and a plug adapter.  

Most of the electrical shops in Jordan sells varieties of adapters and transformers, besides laptops and mobiles phones chargers are widely available at the shops throughout Jordan.

Credit cards can be a handy companion when you explore Jordan's well-trodden paths. They're widely accepted in many tourist hotspots like Amman, the Dead Sea, Petra, Jerash, and Aqaba. It's incredibly convenient when you're savoring the sights, dining at charming restaurants, or picking up souvenirs.

However, it's worth noting that there are exceptions, like Wadi Rum and some rural areas. In these places, cash takes center stage. So, it's a good idea to have some Jordanian dinars on hand when you venture into these remote and rustic corners of the country.

One crucial tip that many travelers often overlook is the importance of giving your credit card company a heads-up about your travel plans. It's a simple step that can save you from an unexpected hiccup during your Middle Eastern journey. Credit card companies monitor transactions for security, and when they see international activity without prior notice, they might put a hold on your card to protect against potential fraud.

Here's why a quick call to your credit card company before you depart can make a world of difference. It's like a travel insurance policy for your financial peace of mind:

Seamless Transactions: When your credit card company knows you're traveling to Jordan, they can update their records. As a result, your card is less likely to get flagged for suspicious activity. This means your transactions will flow smoothly, and you won't be left in an awkward situation while trying to pay for a sumptuous meal or an exquisite souvenir.

Emergency Assistance: In case your card is lost or stolen during your travels, notifying your credit card company beforehand can be a lifesaver. They can expedite the process of blocking the lost card and issuing a replacement, ensuring you're not left stranded without access to funds.

Currency Conversion: Credit card companies often charge a fee for currency conversion. Knowing these fees in advance can help you make informed decisions about using your card abroad. You might also explore credit cards that offer more favorable foreign exchange rates.

Local Insight: Your credit card company can provide you with valuable information about using your card in Jordan. They may share insights on specific merchants, ATMs, or practices that are common in the region, helping you navigate the local financial landscape more effectively.

In essence, that simple call to your credit card company is your ticket to a smoother, stress-free journey through Jordan. It's the kind of thoughtful preparation that leaves you free to focus on the marvels of this historically rich land, like the awe-inspiring beauty of Petra, the Roman ruins in Jerash, or the serene shores of the Dead Sea.

So, when you plan your visit to Jordan, remember to take a moment to connect with your credit card company. It's a small effort that ensures your financial lifeline remains robust and reliable throughout your Middle Eastern adventure.

Not much! Remember all our trips are mostly all inclusive. We do suggest you bring appropriate clothing to fit the season and a day pack to carry extra snacks and water, plus the following items which might add enhancements to your travel to Jordan:

ü Sunscreen & Sunglasses: For obvious reason.

ü Portable charger/Power bank: Most of the camps in Wadi Rum are powered by generator and solar power, which means power may be intermittent during periods of low light. We recommend carrying a portable charger so you can charge your phone, kindle, camera batteries, etc before you head into the desert, rather than potentially relying on a non-existent power supply.

ü Mosquito repellent: Mosquitoes, house fly and other bitey things can be normally found all around Jordan especially at the Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba; therefore, it is recommended to ward them off with a good bug repellent.

ü Torch: Head or handy torch is good for finding the bathroom in Wadi Rum at night or even during the hiking nights in the desert.

ü Bedouin Keffiyeh/ Hat: It is recommended for protection from the sun and sand. Wide-brimmed hat is the best as it can protect your entire head.

ü Lip balm: The Dead Sea can be painful on cracked lips.

ü House slippers or sandals: As floors might be cold. And you will want something easy to slip on at night in the Bedouin camps

ü Hand sanitizer: If you forget, these are readily available at most small stores & supermarkets throughout Jordan.

ü A lightweight jumper/sweater: Nights in Wadi Rum can get pretty cold, so pack a couple of lightweight tops you can layer if you get chilly.

ü Gloves and warm socks: For the chilly desert nights.

ü Warm sweatshirt and/or jacket: (Late fall, winter, early spring)

ü One thick Sweater/ Hooded Switcher: if heading out into the desert overnight late fall, winter and early spring.

ü Long, loose trousers rather than shorts are recommended for Wadi Rum Excursion and during the trekking/ hiking days.

The visit to Jordan would be surprisingly adequate during Spring time “Mid- March through Mid- May” and Autumn time “Mid- September through mid-November” as the days are normally warm, with temperatures around 26-28C (78-84F), but during the nights, it might be cool.

Please see our Jordan in a Nutshell page – Weather in Jordan, and you will have a comprehensive idea about how does the weather look like in Jordan year around.

Tipping is usually part of the culture and in most cases leaving a tip is good etiquette as well as showing your appreciation for the good services you would be receive, unless of course the service was really terrible, don’t feel obliged to give a tip just because it is ‘customary’. 

Offering a gratuity or tipping  is not customary in most of Western cultures, many travellers are making big mistakes when it’s time to show their appreciation for good or exceptional service, largely because they are unsure about when or how much to give and they are unaware of local customs. Most of the industries that involved in providing services, such as restaurants, pay lower wages as they expect the employee will receive tips. Therefore in Jordan, tipping considered as an enhancement of many people’s wages, so it is quite nice of you to give a tip when you get an amazing service.  

If you are still unsure about the right amount of the tip you are trying to give; please contact us and we would be happy to suggest the proper gratuity to the guide, driver, bellhops, porters, restaurants, and any other support staff throughout the tour.  

One of the advantages of buying the Jordan pass beforehand is that you will be granted a free visa on arrival at the airport, so if you are traveling individually not through any travel agency, this option would save you US$ 56 visa fees. But, the Jordanian Government has waived visa fees for all non-restricted nationalities coming through Jordanian tour operators whether travelling individually or in groups.

The Jordan Pass costs 70 Jordanian dinars ($99). A one day entry ticket to Petra is 50 JD ($71). A tourist visa costs 40 JD ($56) and is included in the pass if your stay in the country is at least three nights. Therefore, if you are planning to visit Petra on your visit three nights, you’ll save money with the Jordan Pass. If you are not willing to pay the Jordan pass, and you want visit other included attractions in addition to Petra, then you will be expected to pay $2-$15 for tickets and entry fees such as Jerash, Um Qais, Ajloun, Madaba, and Mt. Nebo etc… You’ll also need to decide when purchasing the Jordan Pass how many days you’ll be spending at Petra. If you’re unsure, choose an extra day just in case — it’s only an additional 5 JD ($7).

Here is an example bellow about the difference between Jordan pass and the normal way to buy ticket and entry fees on spot.

If you tour included the following sites, Jerash, Um Qais, Petra, Wadi Rum, Amman, the amount you would be pay for all these sites would be: US$ 105 in total. But if you buy the Jordan pass it cost you US$ 100 in total and all other sites such as Ajloun, Desert Castles, Pella, Karak, and Museums will be supplementary.

Another advantage of Jordan Pass is that No stamps or visas in your passport. The Jordan Pass is either just on your phone or on a printed piece of paper. The border guards stamped your pass and put a little bar code to scan in your passport.

Why do you not want a Jordan stamp or visa in your passport? It’s because if you are planning to enter and exiting Jordan through borders with Israel and West Bank “Palestine”, some countries recognize this stamp as evidence for having been in Israel, and will deny entry to travelers with it in their passports.

Most normal travelers won’t care about this, but a travel addict like needs to keep their options open!

Of course! It's a great question, and it's always important to have a clear understanding of the total costs for your trip. Typically, the listed price covers the essentials like accommodations, transportation, and some activities. However, it's essential to be aware of potential additional costs. These might include meals not included in the package, entrance fees to certain attractions, tips for guides and drivers, and personal expenses like shopping or optional excursions. These additional costs can vary depending on your choices and preferences.

The good news is that a reputable travel agency, like ours, will always strive to provide a transparent breakdown of potential extra fees, such tipping, meals and shopping, so you can plan your budget accordingly and enjoy a stress-free journey.