Overview
Jordan is a small, largely arid country in the heart of the Middle East, bordered by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, Israel, and the Palestinian territories. Despite its size, it holds an extraordinary concentration of historical and natural landmarks — from the Nabataean rock city of Petra to the vast red-sand landscape of Wadi Rum and the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea.
The country has a well-established tourism infrastructure and is generally considered one of the more accessible and politically stable destinations in the region. Amman, the capital, functions as the main entry point and offers a mix of Roman ruins, lively souqs, and a growing contemporary arts and food scene.
Jordan sits at the crossroads of civilizations — Nabataean, Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, and Crusader histories are all visible in the landscape. This layering of cultures makes it a rewarding destination for travelers interested in archaeology, religion, and desert landscapes alike.
Before You Go
Visas
Visa requirements for Jordan vary by nationality. For current rules, check the TravelerPulse Visas section and the official Jordanian Ministry of Interior or Visit Jordan portal. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or through an e-visa system, but confirm this before departure.
Jordan Pass
The Jordan Pass is a tourist scheme that bundles a single-entry visa (for eligible nationalities) with admission to dozens of sites, including Petra. Whether it represents value depends on your itinerary. Verify current pricing and inclusions on the official Jordan Pass website before purchasing.
Health and Vaccinations
No vaccinations are legally required for most visitors, but consult a travel health clinic 6–8 weeks before departure for personalized recommendations. Tap water is generally not recommended for drinking — bottled water is inexpensive and widely available.
What to Pack
- Modest clothing: shoulders and knees covered for visits to religious sites and conservative areas
- Sturdy walking shoes for uneven ancient sites
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential, especially in Wadi Rum and Petra
- A light layer for evenings, which can be cool even in summer
Getting There
By Air
Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), located approximately 35 km south of Amman, is the country's main international gateway. Royal Jordanian is the national carrier and operates routes to Europe, North America, Asia, and across the Middle East. Several low-cost and full-service international airlines also serve AMM. Aqaba's King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) in the south provides an alternative entry point for travelers heading directly to Wadi Rum or Petra.
By Land
Jordan shares land crossings with Israel and the Palestinian territories, Egypt (via the Aqaba–Nuweiba ferry, which is technically a sea crossing), and — with restrictions that vary by conditions — Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Land border procedures and hours can change; verify current status with official sources before planning a border crossing.
By Sea
A passenger and vehicle ferry operates between Aqaba, Jordan and Nuweiba, Egypt across the Gulf of Aqaba. Schedules, journey times, and operators should be confirmed locally or through a reputable booking agent before travel, as services can be irregular.
Getting Around
Between Cities
JETT and other private bus companies operate intercity coaches between Amman, Aqaba, and other major towns. These are generally comfortable and affordable. Shared minibuses (service taxis) connect smaller towns and are cheaper but less predictable in schedule.
Car Rental
Renting a car gives the most flexibility for reaching Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and the King's Highway at your own pace. Roads are generally in good condition on major routes. Driving is on the right. An international driving permit is advisable alongside your national license.
Within Amman
Ride-hailing apps (including Uber and local alternatives) operate in Amman and are a practical way to get around the city. Metered taxis are also available. The city is hilly and spread out, making walking between distant neighborhoods impractical.
Guided Tours
For sites like Wadi Rum, a guided jeep tour or camel excursion organized through a licensed local operator is the standard and recommended approach. Access to parts of the reserve is managed, and local Bedouin guides provide context that significantly enriches the experience.
Things to See & Do
Petra
The ancient Nabataean city carved into rose-red sandstone cliffs is Jordan's most iconic site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The main entrance trail leads through the Siq — a narrow canyon — to the Treasury (Al-Khazneh). Beyond it, the site extends for kilometers with royal tombs, a colonnaded street, a Byzantine church, and the Monastery (Ad Deir), which requires a significant uphill climb. Allow at least a full day; two days is better for a thorough visit.
Wadi Rum
This protected desert landscape of sandstone mountains, dunes, and ancient rock inscriptions has a stark, otherworldly quality. Activities include jeep tours, camel rides, hiking, and rock climbing. Overnight camping under the stars in a Bedouin-style camp is a popular and memorable option. Confirm camp standards and legitimacy before booking.
The Dead Sea
At roughly 430 meters below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth's surface. Its salt concentration makes floating effortless. Several resort hotels line the Jordanian shore and offer beach access. Note that the sea's shoreline has receded significantly in recent decades due to water diversion — conditions differ from older photographs.
Jerash
Located about 50 km north of Amman, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the world. Its colonnaded streets, temples, theaters, and city gates are largely intact and can be toured in a half to full day.
Amman Highlights
- The Citadel (Jabal al-Qala'a): hilltop ruins including a Roman temple and Umayyad palace with panoramic city views
- Roman Theater: a well-preserved 2nd-century theater still used for occasional events
- Rainbow Street and Jabal Amman: the city's main area for cafés, galleries, and independent shops
- Jordan Museum: strong collection of regional artifacts including Dead Sea Scroll fragments
Other Sites Worth Noting
- Madaba: known for a 6th-century Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land set into the floor of St. George's Church
- Mount Nebo: traditionally associated with Moses and offering views across the Jordan Valley toward the West Bank on clear days
- Aqaba: Jordan's only coastal city, with access to Red Sea snorkeling and diving
Food & Drink
Jordanian Cuisine
Jordanian food draws on Levantine, Bedouin, and broader Arab culinary traditions. Meals tend to be communal and generous. Key dishes to seek out include mansaf (lamb cooked in dried yogurt sauce, served over rice with flatbread — considered the national dish), maqluba (an upside-down rice and vegetable dish), and falafel with fresh hummus for breakfast or a quick meal.
Where to Eat
Amman has a well-developed restaurant scene ranging from simple local eateries serving traditional fare to modern restaurants with regional and international menus. The area around Jabal Amman and Rainbow Street has a high concentration of well-regarded cafés and restaurants. In Petra village (Wadi Musa), dining options are serviceable but less varied — most visitors eat at or near their accommodation.
Drinks
Jordan is a Muslim-majority country. Alcohol is legal and available in licensed restaurants, hotels, and specialist shops, but is not universally sold — particularly outside cities and tourist areas. Tea (shai) is the ubiquitous social drink, typically served very sweet and sometimes flavored with herbs. Arabic coffee (qahwa) is also common. Bottled water is the safest choice for hydration throughout the day.
Practical Notes
- Breakfast (fuul, hummus, eggs, flatbread, labneh) is often the most substantial and affordable meal
- Tipping around 10% is customary at sit-down restaurants where service is not included
- Ramadan significantly affects dining hours and atmosphere — restaurants may be closed during daylight hours or have altered menus
Practical Information
Money
The Jordanian Dinar is subdivided into 100 qirsh (piasters) or 1,000 fils. It is not freely convertible outside Jordan, so exchange before departure is often limited. ATMs are widely available in Amman and tourist areas; cash is still necessary in many smaller towns and markets. Major credit cards are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and some shops.
Connectivity
Local SIM cards with data plans are available at the airport and in cities from Jordan's main mobile operators. Coverage is good in urban and tourist areas but can be limited in remote desert regions.
Electricity
Jordan uses Type B, C, D, F, G, and J sockets at 230V/50Hz — the actual socket type found varies. Verify before travel and bring a universal adapter.
Emergency Contacts
Verify current emergency service numbers on the official Visit Jordan or government site before travel, as they should be confirmed locally. Hospitals and clinics of reasonable standard exist in Amman; medical facilities are limited in remote areas.
Official Tourism Information
The Visit Jordan website (visitjordan.com) is the official tourism authority resource. Cross-reference any planning information found here or elsewhere against that source.
Safety
Jordan has a longstanding reputation as one of the more stable and visitor-friendly countries in the Middle East. Tourist areas such as Petra, Jerash, Wadi Rum, and Amman see large numbers of international travelers and are generally considered safe for independent tourism.
Petty theft, while not common, can occur in crowded areas — standard precautions apply. Solo female travelers report that Jordan is manageable but that persistent (if usually non-aggressive) attention from vendors and touts can be wearing, particularly in tourist sites. Traveling with a companion or a reputable guide can reduce this.
The security situation in the broader region is dynamic. Before travel, consult your government's official foreign travel advisory (such as the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, U.S. State Department, or equivalent) for the latest country-specific guidance. Border regions with Syria and Iraq carry elevated advisories and should be avoided by tourists.
Scams directed at tourists — overpriced unofficial guides, inflated taxi fares, and pressure sales near major sites — are the most commonly reported issues. Agree on prices in advance, use metered taxis or apps, and book guides through licensed operators.
Local Culture & Etiquette
Religion and Society
Jordan is a predominantly Sunni Muslim country with a significant Christian minority, particularly in Amman and Madaba. Islam shapes daily rhythms — the call to prayer is heard throughout the day, and Friday is the main day of rest. Travelers of all backgrounds are generally treated with hospitality, a value deeply embedded in both Bedouin and urban Jordanian culture.
Dress and Conduct
Dress modestly when visiting mosques, religious sites, and conservative neighborhoods — this means covered shoulders and knees for both men and women. At beach resorts on the Dead Sea or in Aqaba, Western swimwear is acceptable in designated areas. Public displays of affection are best kept minimal. Asking permission before photographing people, especially women, is respectful practice.
Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan (dates shift annually — verify the year's dates before travel), eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is inappropriate and in some contexts prohibited for all visitors. The evenings come alive with iftar gatherings and a festive atmosphere. Travel during Ramadan is possible but requires awareness and flexibility.
Photography
Petra, Wadi Rum, and Jerash are visually spectacular and photography is generally welcome. Military installations, government buildings, and border areas should not be photographed. Always ask locals before taking their portrait.
