Jordan Travel Information

Jordan is a small country located in the Middle East, known for its rich history, culture and breathtaking natural landscapes. It is home to some of the world's most iconic historical sites, such as Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and Wadi Rum, known for its rugged beauty. Here are some of the top things to do in Jordan:

1. Visit Petra

Petra is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jordan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the ancient city and admire the rock-cut architecture, including the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs.

2. Visit Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is a desert valley known for its rugged beauty and unique rock formations. Visitors can take a jeep tour of the desert, go camel riding, or spend a night camping under the stars.

3. Visit the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jordan, known for its high salt content and therapeutic properties. Visitors can float in the sea, cover themselves in mud, and visit the nearby spas.

4. Visit Jerash

Jerash is an ancient Roman city located in the north of Jordan. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the city, including the Roman Forum, the Temple of Zeus, and the South Theater.

5. Visit Aqaba

Aqaba is a coastal town located in the south of Jordan, known for its beaches and coral reefs. Visitors can go snorkeling, diving, or swimming in the Red Sea.

6. Visit Amman

Amman is the capital city of Jordan and offers visitors a glimpse into the country's modern culture and lifestyle. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, visit the Roman Theater, and shop at the local markets.

7. Visit the Baptism Site

The Baptism Site, also known as Bethany Beyond the Jordan, is considered as the site where Jesus was baptized. Visitors can explore the archaeological site, including the remains of the churches and the mosaics.

8. Visit the Jordan Valley

The Jordan Valley is known for its fertile lands, and it is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about the country's agricultural heritage. Visitors can go hiking, camping or visit the local Bedouin communities.

9. Visit the Karak Castle

Karak Castle is a large Crusader castle located in the south of Jordan. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about the history of the Crusaders in Jordan.

10. Visit the Mujib Nature Reserve

Mujib Nature Reserve is a protected area located in the south of Jordan, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can go hiking, swimming, or take a jeep tour of the reserve.

Climate

Jordan has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The summers are long and dry, with temperatures averaging around 40°C (104°F) in the hottest months of July and August. The winters are mild, with temperatures averaging around 15°C (59°F) in the coolest months of December and January. Rainfall is minimal, occurring mainly in the winter months.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Jordan depends on the type of activities you want to do and the climate you can tolerate. For those who want to visit the historical sites, the spring and autumn months of April to May and September to November, are the best time as the weather is mild and comfortable. For those who prefer to avoid the hot summer months, the winter months of December to February are a good choice. It should be noted that during the winter months, some historical sites may have limited access or be closed due to inclement weather.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Jordan offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors to choose from, including hotels, guesthouses, and camping.

Hotels

Jordan has a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Visitors can find hotels in major cities such as Amman, Petra, and Aqaba, as well as in smaller towns and villages. Many hotels also offer additional amenities such as spas, restaurants, and swimming pools.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a popular option for visitors looking for a more authentic and local experience. These accommodations are usually family-run and offer a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. Guesthouses are widely available across Jordan, especially in the smaller towns and villages.

Camping

Jordan is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and camping is a popular way to explore the country. Visitors can camp in the desert, in the mountains or near the sea. Some campsites offer basic facilities such as toilets and showers, others are more rustic and visitors need to be self-sufficient.

Bedouin Camps

Visitors can also stay in Bedouin camps and experience the traditional Bedouin lifestyle. These camps offer a unique and authentic experience, and visitors can enjoy activities such as camel riding, hiking, and traditional meals.

It's worth noting that the availability and standards of the above-mentioned options can change, so it's better to inquire in advance and make your bookings accordingly.

Jordan offers a variety of transportation options for visitors to choose from, including air, bus, car rental, and taxis.

Air

Queen Alia International Airport is the main airport in Jordan, and visitors can fly to Amman from major cities in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. There are also smaller airports in Aqaba and Irbid.

Bus

Jordan has a well-developed bus network, connecting major cities and towns. Buses run frequently and are a good option for budget-conscious travelers. They are also a good option for reaching small towns and villages that are not served by train.

Car Rental

Car rental is a popular option for visitors who want to explore Jordan at their own pace. Visitors can rent a car at Queen Alia International Airport or in major cities such as Amman, Petra and Aqaba. Visitors should be aware that some roads may be in poor condition and some areas may have limited access.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in Jordan, and can be hailed on the street or ordered by phone. Visitors should be aware that prices can vary greatly depending on the time of day and location, and it's recommended to agree on the fare with the driver before starting the trip.

Camels and horses

Camel and horse riding are also a popular way to explore some of the historical sites in Jordan like Petra and Wadi Rum. They are also popular among visitors who would like to experience the traditional way of transportation in the desert.

Given the variety of options, visitors should plan ahead and consider factors such as cost, convenience, and accessibility when choosing a mode of transportation.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.