Planning a trip to Jordan? This Middle Eastern gem might not have been on your radar, but it’s packed with unforgettable experiences — from the ancient wonder of Petra and the therapeutic Dead Sea to vibrant coral reefs in the Red Sea. But before you go, there are a few important things to know before traveling to Jordan that can make your trip smoother, safer, and even more memorable.
In this guide, I’m sharing 20 essential travel tips — including advice on local customs, transportation, safety, dress code, food, and the best times to visit — so you can feel fully prepared and excited for your adventure.
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Table of Contents
Useful Things to Know Before Traveling to Jordan
1. About Jordan
Jordan is a captivating country nestled in the heart of the Middle East, bordered by Israel, Palestine, Syria, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Though relatively small—about the size of Portugal—it boasts an incredibly diverse landscape, from the dramatic desert expanses of Wadi Rum to the lush, fertile Jordan Valley and the unique salty waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth.
Its rich history stretches back thousands of years, with ancient civilizations like the Nabateans leaving their mark, most famously through Petra, the rose-red city carved into stone. Jordan has long been a crossroads of cultures and religions, with influences from the Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic empires shaping its vibrant heritage.
Today, this modern yet deeply traditional nation welcomes travelers with open arms, inviting them to explore its stunning landscapes and timeless stories.
2. What to expect from Jordan
Jordan is a small country in the Middle East, covering about 90,000 square kilometers. What impressed me the most were its rich history, gorgeous landscapes, local culture and diverse climates.
You’ll get the chance to visit one of the world’s seven new wonders, Petra, float at the Dead Sea, wave to the people of Israel, discover the less-known hidden gem Little Petra, and hike through the canyon of Wadi Mujib.
Then, get on a boat, take some scuba diving lessons at the Red Sea, stroll around one of the many castles, or enjoy a specialty coffee in Amman. Want more? Hop on a Jeep safari at Wadi Rum, indulge in traditional food, and dance with the Bedouins.
3. Best time to visit Jordan
While Jordan is a year-round destination, I would skip the winter season. The temperature drops below freezing in the north, and you won’t get to experience everything this unique country has to offer.
On the other hand, the summer months can be scorching as the temperature can rise to 45 degrees, and visiting sites like Petra or Wadi Rum might seem impossible.
Spring and autumn are the best options for traveling to Jordan. This is because the temperatures tend to be around mid-20 degrees with lots of sunshine, not too hot for hiking and not too cold for swimming.
Interesting fact: Different areas deal with varying weather conditions due to their landscape. For example, while the Dead Sea area might be too hot, you could quickly need a sweatshirt in Wadi Rum or Petra during the evening. And sometimes, you can encounter some chilly rainy days.
4. How many days do you need in Jordan?
Before traveling to Jordan, the first question that comes to your head is, how long do I need to visit? Well, the answer is so individual! It depends on how much time you have, how much you want to see, how high your budget is, or how many kilometers you wish to drive.
You can get a sense of this fascinating country in only one week. As an idea, reaching Aqaba, the most southern point in Jordan, from the airport in Amman takes nearly 4 hours. So, during one week, you can float in the Dead Sea, visit the ancient town of Petra, take a Jeep safari in the Wadi Rum desert, hike through the water at Wadi Mujib, and snorkel in Aqaba.
While this is totally doable, you won’t want to rush through the country in only one week, so adding a few extra days to your itinerary would be much better!
We did it slowly, as we had enough time and didn’t want to hurry—and having done that was the best decision! Therefore, we chose to travel around Jordan in 10 days, which is more than enough to cover the main sights and also have some leisure time.
5. How to get to Jordan
Getting to Jordan is straightforward, with Queen Alia International Airport near Amman serving as the main gateway for most international travelers.
This modern airport connects Jordan to major cities across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, making it easy to reach from almost anywhere in the world. Many airlines offer direct flights to Amman, including budget carriers and full-service airlines.
If you’re coming from neighboring countries like Israel or Egypt, there are also convenient land border crossings, such as the King Hussein Bridge from the West Bank or the Aqaba-Eilat border.
Once you arrive, taxis, rental cars, and shuttle services provide easy access to the city center and beyond, helping you start your Jordanian adventure without hassle.
Check the best flight deals for Jordan HERE.
6. Renting a car in Jordan
The easiest and most obvious option would be renting a car and discovering the country on your own terms. One of the things to know before traveling to Jordan is that traffic is accessible outside the big cities, and you’ll be driving through empty highways, rural areas or scenic mountain drives. Sometimes, you’ll get on some bumpy roads, but nothing dramatic. Parking is easy and free. And fuel is also cheap.
We always use DISCOVER CARS when we want to rent a car as it compares local, national and international companies. Renting a car is the easiest way to see all the famous country has to offer. Almost all destinations are easy to access with a rental car, and having your own car is also the smoothest way to travel and discover new places.
Check out the best rental deals HERE.
7. Traveling by bus in Jordan
Another option for moving around the country is to take public buses. The JETT – Jordan Express Tourist Transportation Company operates tourist buses across the country on a fixed schedule.
I know travel fellows who traveled by bus everywhere and hitchhiked through the desert, so the possibilities are endless even if you don’t rent a car.
8. Best guided tours in Jordan
If you don’t feel like driving and renting a car in Jordan, there are guided tours that can take you to the best places. I have selected some of the best for you based on the number of reviews and value for money. Be sure to check them out!
From Amman: Petra, Wadi Rum, and Dead Sea 2-Day Tour. Visit the ancient rock-carved city of Petra on a 2-day tour from Amman. Float in the mineral-rich water of the Dead Sea and discover the beauty of Wadi Rum by Spending the night in a Bedouin camp.
From Amman: Petra, Wadi Rum and Dead Sea 3-Day Tour. Embark on a 3-day tour of Jordan’s highlights from Amman. Marvel at the rock-carved city of Petra, spend the night at a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum and traverse the Aqaba City in the Great Rift Valley.
From Amman: Private Day Trip to Petra with Pickup. Discover the highlights of the historical city of Petra on a day trip to the archaeological site from Amman. Marvel at the rock-carved Treasury and get panoramic views from the High Place of Sacrifice.
From Amman: Petra & Wadi Rum Day Trip with Hotel Pickup. Discover two of Jordan’s treasures, Petra and the Wadi Rum Desert, on this action-packed adventure from the capital city of Amman.
9. What is the Jordan Pass?
One of the most important things to know before traveling to Jordan is that the Jordan Pass can save you both time and money — but only if you’re staying in the country for at least three nights. This sightseeing package, introduced by the Ministry of Tourism, covers the cost of your tourist visa and includes entry to over 40 of Jordan’s most popular attractions.
With the Jordan Pass, you’ll have access to major sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash, Kerak Castle, and the Amman Citadel. However, it’s good to know that some places, such as Mount Nebo, Wadi Mujib, and Petra by Night, are not included.
There are three types of passes available: Jordan Wanderer, Jordan Explorer, and Jordan Expert. The only difference is the number of days you want to spend exploring Petra—either one, two, or three consecutive days.
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth it, the answer is yes. Even if Petra is the only site you visit, you’ll already save money compared to buying tickets separately. The more attractions you visit, the more value you get. It’s one of those practical things to know before visiting Jordan that can really enhance your travel experience.
10. How to purchase the Jordan Pass
One of the most useful things to know before traveling to Jordan is that it’s best to purchase the Jordan Pass online before your trip. This will save you time upon arrival and help streamline your entry process. Once you complete your payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a QR code. You can either print the PDF version or simply show it on your phone when needed.
When you land at Queen Alia International Airport, you’ll find dedicated Jordan Pass counters. If the line is short, go ahead and validate your email confirmation there. But if it’s crowded, don’t worry — you can skip that area and continue to the next set of counters, where it’s often quieter. There, you can easily validate your Jordan Pass with no wait.
After that, proceed to the customs counter where you’ll present your passport and visa (which is covered by the Jordan Pass if you stay at least three nights). Once you’re through, you’re all set! From this point on, just show your Jordan Pass at participating tourist attractions and religious sites across the country, and you’re free to explore.
For more about the Jordan Pass, click here.
11. Currency in Jordan
The Jordanian Dinar is the country’s national currency, and JOD indicates the abbreviation. The Dinar, or Jay-DEE as the youngsters call it, has smaller denominations such as 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50.
Interestingly, the Dinar became the official currency in July 1950 after replacing the Palestinian pound, a currency circulating between the Emirate of Transjordan and the British Mandate of Palestine since 1927.
The Jordanian Dinar is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of $0.70 per dollar. Thus, the country benefits from a stable currency regime.
It is easy to change money once you arrive at the airport. You can also do it in Amman malls or exchange offices on the main street if you’re heading to the capital.
The easiest way to get local currency in Jordan is by using ATMs. You’ll find them everywhere, even in the smaller towns. However, do expect a fee every time you withdraw some cash.
Credit Cards are widely accepted at restaurants, hotels, travel agencies, and shops, but it’s always good to have local currency on you. For example, the taxi drivers prefer cash.
12. Tips and bargaining culture
When it comes to tipping and bargaining in Jordan, a little knowledge can save you from awkward moments.
Tipping is customary but not mandatory—most restaurants and cafes include a service charge, but leaving a 10% tip is a nice way to show appreciation for good service.
In markets and souks, bargaining is expected and part of the fun, but it’s best to approach it with a friendly smile and a respectful attitude. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices, but avoid pushing too hard as Jordanians value politeness and building rapport.
Whether you’re haggling over souvenirs or negotiating with a taxi driver, patience and a lighthearted approach will help you get a fair deal and make the interaction more enjoyable.
13. Get an eSIM before the trip
One of the smartest things to know before traveling to Jordan is the convenience of using an eSIM. These days, our phones are essential travel tools — from navigation and translation to booking rides and finding food. And let’s be honest, relying on your home data plan abroad can be expensive, airport Wi-Fi is often unreliable, and searching for a local SIM card after a long flight is the last thing you’ll want to do.
With an eSIM, you can skip all that hassle. Just purchase a data plan online, install it directly on your phone, and activate it when you arrive. For me, being able to land and connect instantly without waiting in line or hunting for Wi-Fi was a total game changer.
There’s no physical SIM to install, no long-term contract, and no stress. You can top up or buy a new plan anytime through the app — fast, flexible, and super convenient. If staying connected matters to you, getting an eSIM before traveling to Jordan is a must.
You can get an e-sim card with AIRALO.
14. Safety in Jordan
One of the most reassuring things to know before traveling to Jordan is that it’s considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East. Crime rates are low, especially compared to other countries in the region. That said, it’s still wise to stay alert in busy tourist areas, as pickpocketing can happen. It’s also best to steer clear of political or religious demonstrations, just as you would in any country, as they can escalate unexpectedly.
We traveled as an independent couple in a rented car for 10 days and never once felt unsafe. In fact, we often stopped in remote places, left our belongings in the trunk, and were met only with kindness. Whether we were walking through local markets or driving through rural areas, we were always greeted with smiles, waves, and warm hospitality.
The people of Jordan are incredibly welcoming, and their generosity will leave a lasting impression. We met fellow travelers who hitchhiked, camped on beaches, or shared taxis with strangers — all without any issues. If safety is what’s holding you back, don’t let it. Book that flight and get ready to explore a country that’s as kind as it is captivating.
15. Secure your travel insurance
When it comes to health, Jordan’s medical system is not something to take lightly. Travel is full of surprises, and you never know what might happen. That’s why having proper medical insurance is not just a good idea; it’s vital when you travel.
For us, peace of mind is a non-negotiable when we travel. That’s why we always ensure we have travel insurance designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong. If you’re still in the process of securing travel insurance for your trip to Jordan, I highly recommend HEYMONDO.
They are a trusted insurance provider for leisure and business trips, backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads. Their comprehensive travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more, giving you the peace of mind you need for your journey.
One of the useful things to know before traveling to Jordan is that as a Lizy Travels The World reader, you’re entitled to an exclusive 5% discount on your HEYMONDO Travel Insurance.
16. People in Jordan – One of the most important things to know before traveling to Jordan
One of the very first things to know before traveling to Jordan is that the people here are incredibly warm and welcoming. Almost every Jordanian you meet will greet you with a heartfelt “Welcome to Jordan!” Their genuine smiles and hospitality can quickly put any travel worries to rest.
Jordan is truly one of the friendliest countries I’ve ever visited. Most locals are more than happy to answer your questions, offer directions, or lend a helping hand whenever needed. This warmth and kindness will make your journey even more memorable.
That said, like anywhere in the world, there are a few exceptions. In busy tourist spots like Petra, some local guides can be a bit pushy or disrespectful, especially when police presence is low. A local I spoke to from Wadi Musa explained that some guides get frustrated because visitors often don’t need their help to reach famous viewpoints like the Treasury.
Here’s a practical tip: You don’t have to hire a guide to enjoy Petra’s best views. There is a longer, easier path to the Treasury viewpoint that you can take on your own. If approached by pushy guides, politely ignore them—they’ll move on without causing any trouble.
Understanding the kindness and hospitality of Jordanian people is one of the key things to know before traveling to Jordan. Embrace it, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
17. Basic Arabic phrases
While many people in Jordan speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few simple Arabic phrases can help you connect with locals and show respect for the culture.
For example, to say hello, you can use “Marhaba” (مرحبا), pronounced “mar-ha-ba.”
When it’s time to say goodbye, say “Ma’a salama” (مع السلامة), pronounced “ma‘a sa-la-ma.”
If you want to be polite when asking for something, use “Min fadlak” (من فضلك) if you’re speaking to a man, or “Min fadlik” if you’re speaking to a woman, both meaning “please.”
Expressing gratitude is easy with “Shukran” (شكراً), pronounced “shuk-ran.”
To answer yes or no, say “Na’am” (نعم) and “La” (لا), respectively.
If you need to get someone’s attention or say sorry, “Afwan” (عفواً), pronounced “af-wan,” works perfectly.
When shopping or negotiating prices, ask “Kam al-si‘r?” (كم السعر؟), meaning “How much is it?” To find a place, say “Ayn…?” (أين…؟), which means “Where is…?” For example, “Ayn al-hammam?” means “Where is the bathroom?”
Finally, if you ever find yourself in need of urgent assistance, shouting “Al-najda!” (النجدة!) means “Help!”
Keep in mind that Arabic is written from right to left, so using the pronunciation guide will help you feel more confident. Also, using your right hand when greeting or handing over something is a polite gesture in Jordan. A simple “Marhaba” paired with a warm smile is often all you need to start a friendly conversation and make a great impression.
18. Dress Code in Jordan
One of the important things to know before traveling to Jordan is its cultural and religious background. Jordan is a Muslim-majority country with a diverse religious landscape, including an Orthodox Christian community in Madaba and a small Jewish population. Respecting local customs is essential, especially when it comes to dress and behavior.
Jordanians generally expect visitors to dress modestly. Women should cover their shoulders and chest, and wear long skirts or pants, particularly when visiting restaurants, museums, or walking around major cities. When visiting religious sites, both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees. Women will also need to cover their hair and neck.
Public displays of affection are generally discouraged in Jordan due to cultural norms, so it’s best to be mindful and respectful. Following these simple guidelines will not only show respect for local customs but also help you blend in and enjoy a more authentic experience during your trip.
19. What to eat in Jordan
Food plays a huge role in understanding any country, and Jordan is no exception. One of the best things to know before traveling to Jordan is that its cuisine is a rich, flavorful reflection of its culture, and eating here is often a warm, social experience.
Jordanian food often features staples like chicken, lamb, mutton, rice, and fresh salads, all prepared with traditional methods—sometimes even cooked in sand right in the Wadi Rum desert! Starters are a big deal and usually accompany every meal.
Hummus is a must-try, creamy and smooth, perfect as a starter or dip.
Falafel—those golden, crispy chickpea balls—are everywhere and taste amazing when dipped into the many sauces served on the table.
Mutabbal is a delicious mix of tahini, baked eggplant, lemon, garlic, and olive oil—definitely a favorite.
For the main course, don’t miss Mansaf, Jordan’s national dish. It’s slow-cooked lamb served over rice with fermented yogurt sauce, fresh parsley, and Baharat spices—a true taste of Jordanian hospitality.
Another great option is Maqluba, a layered dish of meat, rice, and grilled vegetables cooked together in a pot and flipped upside down before serving. Topped with yogurt and almonds, it’s simply irresistible!
Trying these dishes is an essential part of your travel experience—so be ready to eat well and enjoy the incredible flavors Jordan has to offer.
You can’t leave Jordan without savoring the KNAFEH– the famous pastry filled with mild white cheese, topped with kataifi, and soaked in sugar syrup! Simply delicious!
20. Ramadan in Jordan
One of the most important things to know before traveling to Jordan — especially if your trip coincides with Ramadan — is how the holy month affects daily life. Ramadan is observed by the majority of Jordanians, and during this time, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset.
As a visitor, you’re not required to fast, but it’s respectful to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Many restaurants and cafes are closed until sunset, though tourist areas often have designated spots open for non-Muslims.
After sunset, the cities come alive with family gatherings, festive meals (called iftar), and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a unique time to visit if you’re curious about experiencing local traditions, but be prepared for a slower pace during the day and limited operating hours at some businesses.
21. Can you find alcohol in Jordan?
Jordan is a Muslim country and alcohol isn’t as widely available as in some other destinations. For example, I once saw a couple staying at a Dead Sea resort surprised that the on-site restaurant didn’t serve alcohol—and they wondered how they would spend the week!
If you find yourself in this situation, try Limona—a refreshing non-alcoholic drink made from lemon, ice, spearmint, water, and sugar. It’s a common favorite on hotel menus and a great way to stay cool and refreshed.
Outside of resorts, you can find restaurants serving alcohol, especially in bigger cities like Amman and Aqaba. In Christian towns like Fuheis and Madaba, alcohol is more readily available, and you might even come across local craft beer breweries.
Just keep in mind that during Ramadan, it’s illegal to sell alcohol anywhere in Jordan, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling during this time.
Useful Things to Know Before Traveling to Jordan. Best Places to Visit
If you’re considering traveling to Jordan, here is a list of my favorite places:
The UNESCO World Heritage Petra
The most exciting site in Jordan and the reason many tourists visit this country is, no doubt, Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World!
The most famous spot is the Treasury, followed by the Roman Theatre, the Royal Tombs, the Street of Facades, and the Monastery. This place can be seen in only one day, but for the best experience, two days would be enough.
Find out how to visit Petra from my article: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO VISITING PETRA ON YOUR OWN
If you don’t feel like driving and putting up an itinerary, the best way to visit is by joining a guided tour from Amman. BOOK YOUR GUIDED TOUR TO PETRA FROM AMMAN
Little Petra
Everyone has heard about Petra in Jordan, but did you know there is a similar ancient city called Little Petra, which is only 6km away? It is another incredible place to see in Jordan and is well worth visiting! Although not as huge as Petra, this place only requires a couple of hours to fall in love with.
Find out how to visit Little Petra from my article: HOW TO VISIT LITTLE PETRA IN JORDAN. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR VISIT
Wadi Rum
Another fantastic place on your itinerary should be the Wadi Rum desert, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’ve watched the movie “The Martian” you should know it was filmed here.
Spend the night in a Martian tent, admire the stars, and go on a guided jeep tour to discover the gorgeous landscape, enjoy a bedouin dinner, dance with the locals, and indulge in the atmosphere.
Dead Sea
Did you know that the deepest hypersaline lake and the lowest point on Earth are also in Jordan? The Dead Sea is the border between Israel and Jordan, to be more precise. What makes this place so unique? You can’t swim, but you can float, and it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Find out from my article the best tips for swimming in the Dead Sea: THE BEST TIPS FOR SWIMMING IN THE DEA SEA
Aqaba
If snorkeling or scuba diving is on your bucket list, Aqaba is the place to be. As Jordan’s only coastal city, it offers warm, clear waters perfect for all kinds of water activities year-round. Whether you stay at a hotel with beach facilities or spend your days at the public beaches, you’re guaranteed some relaxing, sun-soaked fun.
Beyond the water, take time to explore Aqaba’s lively streets, sample delicious local cuisine, shop for unique souvenirs, and indulge in the city’s famous desserts. With its mix of natural beauty and vibrant culture, Aqaba is a must-visit destination that won’t disappoint.
Amman
The capital of Jordan, Amman, is a modern city with many ancient ruins to visit. Not really the kind of place to stay longer than a couple of nights, but seeing the Amman Citadel and Jerash ruins, further north, should also be included in your itinerary.
Madaba
South of Amman lies the ancient market town of Madaba. Unfortunately, visitors often overlook the home to Jordan’s most important religious landmark, the City of Mosaics. The city is large, but all the sights are concentrated in the historic center.
First, find a boutique hotel in downtown Madaba. Then, visit the Greek Orthodox church of St. George and witness the mosaic flooring representing the Holy Land.
Next, visit Madaba Archeological Park to see more mosaics in Jordan, and for the largest mosaic floor, visit the Apostles Church.
After so much sightseeing, find a coffee house and relax under the shade of the olive trees!
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- St. George Church in Madaba
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- The Mosaic Map of the Holy Land in Madaba
Wadi Mujib
Wadi Mujib, the lowest nature reserve in the world, is a must-visit for adventure lovers. Often called the Grand Canyon of Jordan, it’s famous for the Siq trail — a thrilling three-hour self-guided hike that takes you through towering sandstone cliffs while navigating the river’s current.
One important thing to know before traveling to Jordan is that the trail is open only from April 1 to October 31. The water level can get quite high, and some sections are challenging, so a good level of fitness is necessary to fully enjoy this incredible experience.
Interactive Map of Useful Things to Know Before Traveling to Jordan
Underneath, you’ll find a customized map that includes all the locations you will visit. Just open this article on your phone and click on the frame in the upper right corner of the map. The Google Maps app will open, and you can check all the details. I hope it helps!
Final Thoughts on Visiting Jordan
Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, floating in the Dead Sea, or enjoying mint tea with locals, Jordan is a country that captivates from the moment you arrive. I hope this guide has helped you prepare for your trip and inspired you to explore this beautiful and welcoming destination.
Have questions or want to share your own Jordan travel tips? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear from you!
Jordan Related Posts
I hope you found my article on the things to know before traveling to Jordan useful. If you need some extra inspiration for your trip, check out my other articles:
A COMPLETE GUIDE TO VISITING PETRA ON YOUR OWN
HOW TO VISIT LITTLE PETRA IN JORDAN. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR VISIT
