work and travel jordan 2023

• How to – guides
• Skills List
• How to – guides
• North America
• South America

Work and Travel in Jordan

Help us grow. share what you know about getting work in jordan for travellers., volunteer and paid work opportunities in jordan for travellers.

Like much of the Middle East, Jordan comes with a turbulent history. But if that doesn’t bother you and you want to work and travel in Jordan, you’ll get closer to one of the major centres of the world’s problems. You’ll be able to make a real difference and step outside your comfort zone. We have a number of volunteer opportunities in Jordan. Consider this to be your travel guide to Jordan. Are you ready to challenge yourself in this ancient land? 1. Help Refugees in Jerash Not many people know about the Gaza refugee camp in Jordan. There are 23,000 people living in just a single square kilometre. None of them have any ID or paperwork so they’re unable to ever move on. Join up with a programme to help the refugees here. You can do everything from helping children learn to read to handing out food aid which arrives here on a periodic basis. 2. Cultural Exchange in Jordan There are organisations that want to encourage more knowledge of the outside world within the country. These initiatives are there to offer a cultural exchange between locals and foreigners. Your job will be to introduce these people to your culture and your lifestyle. You’ll be rewarded with free accommodation, alongside a new knowledge of traditional crafts and an insight into the Jordanian lifestyle. It’s a wonderful way to work and travel in Jordan! 3. Restoration Work in Petra Travel in Jordan is normally a thing because people want to visit the lost ancient city of Petra. Not many people who travel in Jordan are aware that the restoration of Petra still isn’t finished. New discoveries are being made all the time. You could be part of those discoveries. Whether it’s through Jordan University or the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, you could join a team as a volunteer and help with the research of these organisations in Petra. The more qualifications you have the more likely you are to command a paying role.

VOLUNTEER WORK VISA / PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR JORDAN

Generally, only other citizens of the Middle East are entitled to enter Jordan without the need for a visa. Practically every other nationality, including all Westerners, is able to get a visa-on-arrival at most land crossings and any airport. Take note the visa isn’t available at the Wada Araba crossing with Israel, except for Israeli citizens in tour groups. The visa-on-arrival can be purchased for up to 12 months with multiple entries, or you can choose one that only lasts for two months, as well as some more in between. We recommend trying to arrive in Jordan by air as crossing through the land border with Israel will leave evidence of your visit to Israel in your passport, which will ban you from travelling to over 10 countries, including Lebanon and Kuwait.

SEASONAL BACKPACKER SKILLS NEEDED IN JORDAN

Spring work.

The spring is one of the high seasons in the country for tourism. These are pleasant temperatures with little chance of rainfall across the country. Outdoors jobs are desirable at this time of year, such as archaeological work and any work within refugee camps. There are also plenty of tourists and backpackers in the spring, so you should find it easy to secure volunteering opportunities in Jordan targeted at foreigners.

SUMMER JOBS

The summer season is almost unbearable in a country that consists mainly of endless desert. Any job you can find indoors at this time of year is ideal. Teaching English in Jordan is a popular way to spend time in the country during the summer months because even the locals don’t want to go outside! It’s relatively easy to find work in Jordan as an English teacher in the major cities. The best option for travellers is to head to Amman, which is an extremely modern, bustling capital. You may even be able to find paying work if you know where to go and decide to work on a private basis. If you have a TEFL qualification schools and universities will be open to hiring you for the months ahead.

Autumn brings the second high season to Jordan. You should refer back to the ‘Spring’ section for more information on the roles available at this time of year. Arguably, this is the best time to work and travel in Jordan because many of the tour companies open for business. Desert activities, such as sandboarding, are available. Volunteers who know their stuff can find work as instructors or supervisors in the vast deserts. You may even be able to find work at some of the resorts on the Dead Sea.

Not many people know that even Jordan can get bitterly cold during the wintertime. Few tourists visit at this time of year and it’s unlikely that you’re going to find much work at all throughout the country. There are no winter sports in the country, so it’s best to use this opportunity to either leave Jordan or to travel around some of the tourist destinations when crowd numbers are fewer.

ATTITUDE TO FOREIGNERS WORKING OR VOLUNTEERING IN JORDAN

Jordan is a surprisingly cut off country due to the fact that there are few cheap flights into or out of the country. Most backpackers cross the land border with Israel to enter the country. And few tourists go beyond Petra and the Dead Sea. That means you’re likely to elicit a huge amount of curiosity when you go off the beaten track. There are no real dangers to foreigners and you won’t find a huge number of scammers like you would in places like Egypt. There are usually no problems in Jordan as long as you don’t bring up issues of politics or religion. Despite being one of the more peaceful areas of the region, it still has a divisive history with the countries around it (especially Israel). If you’re ready to go beyond the conventional in Jordan, you have everything you need to extend your stay and get under the skin of this country. Are you prepared to enter this Biblical land?

Recent Contributors

• Edited on Jan 19 2018 by Yara

If you have worked in Jordan or live here. Instead of saying `That information is not right` Please sign up to Working Traveller by clicking here and update this page with your opinions on the subject and your views on what the barter points should be. If your a host, you will have a SEO link added to the page directly to your own web site so viewers can see who provided the information. If you are a traveller it will link to your profile.

• Muhafazat al Balqa'
• Muhafazat al `Aqabah
• Muhafazat at Tafilah
• Muhafazat az Zarqa'
• Muhafazat Madaba
• Muhafazat Ma`an
• Muhafazat `Ajlun
• Muhafazat `Amman

WORKING TRAVELLER LTD 27, Lonsdale Rd, Blackpool, FY1 6EE, UNITED KINGDOM

Work and travel the world using your skills to gain work experience and references for a good job back home

Log in with your credentials, forgot your details.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Is It Safe to Travel to Jordan in 2024?

Is Jordan safe? This seems to be the question of the hour and everyone is wondering it. Especially with the constant news of bombings, terrorist attacks, and other events related to conflict in this region.

We’ve met people who would never dream of visiting the Middle East right now, no matter what it had to offer, and who think we are absolutely off our rockers for having done so, and continue to do so.

Don’t get me wrong, despite the fact that we often commit to visiting the area, we can’t help but let our minds wander to the current issues. I mean, we have been in the Middle East for all the events I just mentioned above.

I remember waking up in our hotel in Petra to the news of the Paris attack during our first visit to Jordan (we’ve now been 3 more times). It was heartbreaking, and I would be lying if I said it didn’t make us nervous.

All of that said, we had a really amazing time in this part of the World and our interests are increasingly piqued each time we return to explore more.

We know a lot of you are wondering what it was like to travel in this part of the World and whether your plans should involve a visit in the future. So let’s talk about it.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Jordan

Is Jordan Safe? Let’s Take a Deep Dive

Table of Contents

Is Jordan Safe for Westerners?

I’ll start by telling you about a moment that David and I had shortly after we arrived in Amman, Jordan the first time.

After checking into our hotel, we walked down the street to a Japanese restaurant for a scrumptious bowl of ramen. We walked through the door, were seated, and handed menus.

After placing our order we both looked at each other and said, ‘I can’t believe we are in Jordan.’ Just bluntly to each other, then both looked out the window in amazement.

If we didn’t have the plane tickets and passport stamps to prove we had just landed in Jordan, we could have snapped a photo and posted it online saying we had just arrived in Minneapolis, Minnesota .

The crazy part? Everyone would have believed us.

We never felt unsafe or threatened during our time in Jordan and never got the impression that we were not welcome there. We’ve been back to Jordan three times since this first visit and have even led our own group trip to the country.

Additionally, we’ve also been to Egypt three times and will be exploring more of the Middle East with trips planned to Oman, UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain this year.

Jordan as a whole is working hard to put the positive image of their country forward, and it deserves to have tourism .

You can learn more about Jordan in our extensive Jordan Travel Guide .

What are the Local People Like in Jordan?

Jordan is an incredibly progressive place and while they still hold onto their cultural roots, they have moved forward with great care for the stability of their country and its people.

We walked the streets of every city we visited at all hours of the day and night and were not hassled once .

Many women in the bigger cities walked the streets without burkas, wearing trendy clothing. The men dressed sharply and treated the women they came in contact with respectfully.

Curious locals waved at us and started random conversations with us. Despite what people may think about it, we are not the kind of people who won’t tell people where we are from.

When asked, we tell. I can’t tell you the amount of excitement that would come out of learning we were Americans and how much passion the local people put into telling us how great it was that we were there and how much they loved our country.

This is the tour we took on our first visit : 8 Day Jordan Explorer

Don’t Fall For Sensationalized Media Headlines

The mainstream news media does the World a great disservice with its sensationalism in the news headlines.

The average American is terrified at the mere mention of the Middle East and can’t fathom why anyone would want to leave America. 

It’s ridiculous if you want my honest opinion. These media practices make people forget that there are people living in these countries, going about their lives just like you and me.

They want terrorism stopped just as much, if not more, than we do because, unlike the few occurrences that we see happening to the Western world, it is a nightmare that is affecting their quality of life.

Try to think about that the next time you hear that the Middle East is not a safe place to visit.

Stay safe everywhere you go: 25 Essential Safety Tips for Travel

Is Jordan Safe to Travel Around Independently?

Absolutely. While traveling in a group is the most popular option, traveling independently in Jordan is easy and very safe.

The infrastructure of Jordan is very modern , meaning they have paved roads, direct routes, and even an expressway.

It is not a big country by any standard and you can travel from Amman to Aqaba in 4 hours . Buses connect the main cities but do not stop at the sights.

So you will have to plan on arranging shuttles or tours from the cities you are staying in.

If you’re not up for going it alone, check out this great 8 Day-Jordan Explorer tour option that we experienced which operates round trip from Amman.

We also organize our own custom and private group trips to Jordan. You can learn more about our trips and watch for Jordan trips here: Divergent Travel Trips

Will I Be Harassed while Traveling in Jordan?

While I can’t guarantee that you won’t, I’ve been harassed in some cities in America, it never happened while we were in Jordan. On any of our four visits.

The people were respectful of Western tourists and for the most part, didn’t really pay attention to us.

I never noticed men going out of their way to catcall the ladies or follow them down the street like I have seen in places like India and Morocco .

The key to visiting any country, not just in the Middle East, is to respect their culture .

You have to remember that you are choosing to visit their country, you were not invited and you don’t have a right to just parade around like you do at home.

Jordan is a progressive country, but it is still a conservative place by Western standards. Do your part by researching the country and showing some respect during your time visiting the country.

Just paying attention to those things will save you a lot of hassle during your travels.

We have also traveled to Jordan with Globus, and it was fantastic! Read about our experience here: 7 Days in Jordan on the Globus Escape

Tips for Dressing Appropriately in Jordan

Being a conservative country, I think it goes without saying that you should leave your shorts and skimpy tops at home. Yes, it’s going to be hot out but it is imperative that you be respectful.

I would say of all the countries in the Middle East, Jordan is the most accepting of the Western visitor.

That said, following these simple tips will ensure you have a great time and feel comfortable during your trip.

• Male travelers: Shorts seemed to be ok, same with T-shirts and lightweight button-up shirts. Don’t wear tank tops. Sandals are ok. If you’re looking to be conservative wear long pants and long sleeve shirt. Many men were wearing jeans.
• Female Travelers: Don’t wear tight-fitting clothes, shorts, or tank tops. The local women, while progressive, do not dress like this, and neither should you. You don’t have to cover your head.

I wore a combination of loose-fitting hippie pants, lightweight travel pants, and lightweight travel capris. I wore fitted, but not tight, short-sleeved tops and carried a scarf with me at all times.

I also wore long-sleeved button ups over tank tops. This wardrobe worked for me throughout our travels in the Middle East.

Is Jordan Safe Amid All the Stereotypes?

You should visit Jordan because it is awesome and has a lot to offer travelers. Jordan has history, culture, ruins, and natural wonders jam-packed into a small country with great infrastructure.

The people are friendly, welcoming, and eager to show you the best of their country.

The Kingdom of Jordan is working hard to maintain the stability of their country and keep it a safe place for tourists.

It is very important to remember that the majority of the people in this part of the World are just people.

Just people like you, working for a living, working so their kids can have a better life, and working so they can live their dreams.

So, Is Jordan Safe to Visit?

Just so we are clear, I am not trying to sugarcoat the situation in the Middle East . What is going on over there is real and affects everyone in this World.

I am not saying the Islamic State is not a real threat nor that the situation with Jordan’s neighbors should be ignored. However, I can tell you that Jordan is a safe country and a safe place to travel to.

There is security everywhere, they have a large, powerful, alert army and there have been no attacks in Jordan.

Don’t let the media storm that often surrounds this part of the world convince you that it is all bad and that the people despise Western people and our way of life.

This is nothing further from the truth. Jordan is an exceptional example of a safe country promoting the good of an area and we can’t wait for a chance to return and dig a little deeper on our travel adventures.

Besides, I think you have a better chance of being hit by a bus while walking across the street in your hometown than being the subject of any attacks while traveling in Jordan.

• Official Information: Visiting Jordan for US Citizens .
• Planning to cross from Jordan to Israel? Check out: Crossing into Jordan from Israel – Overland border

More on traveling to Jordan:

• Ultimate Jordan Itinerary for 5 Days, 7 Days or 10 Days
• 27 Special Things to Do in Jordan
• Wadi Rum in Jordan: Best Camps & Ultimate Planning Guide
• The Jordan Pass: Is It Worth It? Plus How to Maximize Your Ticket
• Best Time to Visit Jordan: Month by Month Breakdown
• Inside Petra Jordan: Everything You MUST Know Before Visiting
• Swimming in the Dead Sea in Jordan

You might also like:

• Is Egypt Safe to Visit?
• Ultimate Egypt Itinerary for 7 Days, 10 Days or 2 Weeks
• 21 Epic Things to Do in Egypt

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

53 thoughts on “Is It Safe to Travel to Jordan in 2024?”

I have been planning to visit Jordan for many years. Your article will now push me to do so

Love to hear this! Be sure to check out our many articles on traveling in Jordan!

This was such an informative post! Thanks for the fantastic tips and amazing guidance. You have helped me a lot. Got to learn more about the topic!Thanks for sharing this post.

Thank you for your informative article….I am a 73 year old, partially disabled, woman who will be traveling alone…..do you think I will be ok? I have travelled quite a bit…. I really, really want to see Petra.

Yes! You will have a fantastic time in Jordan. Enjoy. 🙂

“I would say of all the countries in the Middle East, Jordan is the most accepting to the Western visitor.” __

More than Israel? That’s surprising.

I need answer for the same question.

The article does a pretty good job of answering the question. 😉

It’s safe to work in Jordan….I mean…its safe to get a job over there. …

Thank you for sharing your experiences in Jordan and making visitors feel safe about visiting a country who cannot help being located in a hotbed of instability! I hope more people will take you advice and visit Jordan whether independently or on an organized tour this year!

Really interesting post, thanks for writing it! Couldn’t agree with you more when you said “The mainstream news media does the World a great disservice with its sensationalism in the news headlines.”

It is a very advantageous post for me. I’ve enjoyed reading the post. It is very supportive and useful post. I would like to visit the post once more its valuable content. Thanks for sharing this so interesting post! I really want to be thankful for the way you have put it here.

Glad to hear you found the article helpful! Cheers

Hi Everybody

I would like to thank everybody for your kind words about jordan .

If anybody want to visit jordan or need any help about places , i’m proud to help .

We have just arrived in Amman at 9pm today, decided on car hire after reading multiple advices. We have driven in many countries and hardly met problems. My husband is a seasoned driver.

Driving from airport to hotel was ok. But when we were on the way to the supermarket, a car drove into our lane from the front out of nowhere, very very close to us, on a totally empty street in Amman and forced us to move slightly to the right. We were already on the right and there were no other lanes on the right just some head-in parking lots, some empty some taken. When we were being pushed to the right and wondering why the driver drove so badly, another car magically close enough behind to get scratched on their front left bumper. The car that cut into our lane had sped off very quickly.

We pulled up and 2 men appeared from the “victim” car (they only spoke Arabic apparently) blabbering about calling the Police (who they claim is off work) and another guy mysteriously appeared to “mitigate” in some simple English.

They wanted ridiculous amount of money and we emptied our wallet to send them off. They took whatever we had, got into their car real quickly and drove off quickly too.

We removed the huge car rental company sticker at the back of our car windscreen. We believe it was a planned scam (we had 3 very small scratches but theirs was very scratched) and wonder if there was any way we could have avoided it.

That sounds terrible! If it was me, I would have insisted that we call the police and would have also called the hotel to explain what had happened before even thinking about handing over money of any kind. It definitely sounds like a scam and I imagine had the police been called they would have disappeared. Jordanians hold tourism in a very high regard and this type of behavior isn’t tolerated but unfortunately, that kind of scam can happen anywhere. I hope you don’t let it ruin your time in Jordan, it’s a fantastic country with lots to offer.

Jordan is really a historic place. I will come visit someday. Thanks for this!

I cannot thank you enough for your post. Leaving for my 3rd trip to Israel next week, and wanted to add a day trip to Petra. My travelmates are terrified to leave Israel — fearful of the travel warnings, the terrorism, and the instability of the region. It is so hard to explain to people that have not been to the Middle East the exact notion that you articulated— that people just like you and I are living in these regions, making a living, raising families, and wishing the media would not overstate the conditions as much as we do.

Your blog was balanced, fair minded, and so well written. I have forwarded to my travel partners as a reassurance.

Thank you, thank you.

Fantastic to hear that you found our information useful! Jordan is a SPECTACULAR country and we were surprised by it every single day we spent there. You’ll LOVE Petra. Never seen anything quite like it. Media hype is a real thing and we need to make sure we maintain perspective about everything we see and hear. Be sure to check out our guide for visiting Petra to get the most out of your visit.:)

There are amazing flight deals to Amman right now and it has been a dream of mine to visit Jordan. I’m glad I read this blog but it’s still hard to not be worried considering the travel warning. I’m going to continue my research and keep the flight deal alerts coming. Thanks for this!

Hi, Thanks for sharing this. I am currently doing some research on Jordan because my daughter and son in law wants to go to Jordan to do missionary work. It scared me to death at first, but thanks to this blog I see that I was just being ignorrant as unfortunately so many people are.

Hi Witha, I am so glad you found us and that we were able to put Jordan into a healthy perspective for you. It is an amazing country with a lot to offer people who visit. They will have a fabulous time there and learn so much along the way. Cheers!

I’m glad that you enjoyed traveling to Jordan next time when you arrive here send an email and I will help you to know and visit all the nice and incredible spots in Jordan ??

Thank you! Yes, we loved Jordan and will definitely plan a return visit.

Excellent article, thanks for posting. I also appreciate the 2017 update! I’m heading to Jordan the third week of April for 4 days and this sort of affirmation about the safety and friendliness of the people is exactly what I needed! (I’ve been getting nonstop questions from family about whether or not I have a deathwish!)

You’re going to love Jordan! There are so many misconceptions about Jordan and the Middle East as a whole. Make sure you visit Petra. 🙂

Hi all. I have now lived and worked here for over three years I Lived in Amman for most of this time but have now moved to Aqaba. I can reiterate that Jordan is an amazing country with beautiful people to match. I have made many good friends here during my time. I have NEVER felt in danger, you just need to blend in and enjoy your stay. Like many have said you are a visitor so always keep that in mind. I love the place. Just one point about dress code, I have seen many local women wearing dresses and shorts. just dress respectfully. In the last six months or so there has been more trouble and today the 18th December 2016 there was the worst incident in the time I have been here. This was in Karak. Just about 10 KM of the main road near the bottom end of the Dead Sea. I still wouldn’t be put off by this. I just see it as there is trouble in all countries world wide.

I hope this honest appraisal of Jordan helps. COME VISIT you won’t regret it.

Just visit Jordan and enjoy it.

Is there a site that I could possibly find a travel buddy? As I am a single woman planning to travel January 2017?

Thank you for posting this article! As an expat living in Jordan, I am happy whenever I see westerners have a great time. I will add that safety here is a very real concern, both for locals and tourists. We live in the worry everyday. I wouldn’t want anyone to get the wrong idea that it’s completely safe because it isn’t. That being said, most will be just fine visiting here, but please take precautions.

Thank you for your rational comment. We agree that there is risk in any destination that you visit, and especially when you visit a country with unstable neighbors. But it is not reason enough to boycott visiting a place that has a lot to offer. Many people make decisions based solely on the information they are spoon fed in media, without digging deeper into the issues or talking to people that have actually experienced it for themselves. There is a big difference in that information.

Hi, this is great to know and read. Thank you! We are a tour operator in Jordan and comments like this helps us a lot. Can we share some of this on our Facebook for clients to read? We are trying hard thru our FB to be as informative as we can especially on how safe Jordan is. How can we collaborate?

Hi Carol, Thank you for the comment. Please contact us via email to discuss collaboration. Lina

Very useful blog on visiting Jordan. Thanks and well done. We’re not shy of visiting most places though Jordan did cause us to have some reservations. On your recommendation we are off then… bike tour here we come. 🙂

Jordan is an amazing country and very peaceful. They have some rowdy neighbors, but it is not affecting their country. Go and enjoy!

Nice read! Jordan looks really beautiful and I’d really like to visit at some point; it does seem like one of the safer options at present for exploring middle eastern lands and cultures.

Yes, Jordan is incredibly safe to visit. You won’t meet nicer people either.

Thank u my dream is Petra for yearsss,u article is awesome can’t wait to be there this year.

Why did you eat Chinese food while in Jordan?

Because we had been traveling through Africa for 5 months before we arrived in Jordan and it sounded good! Hadn’t had Ramen in almost 8 months.

Jordan is a heaven.

I Can only agree with all you have told! I have visited Jordan twice, and I will again! It is a very pleasent country, and it deserves to be visited.

Liked your positive outlook on middle-east!

Thanks for this amazing article which described Jordan at it true form ! Am glad you enjoyed your time here and hope you visit us again 🙂

love this article, I have lived three years in Jordan and this exactly matches my experiences. It is a different country, it is a different culture but with little alternations especially in the clothing part and a little respect for local culture it is a country very open to westerners. I cant’t think of any negative experience that had to with me being a blond European. I do remember some issues involving being a woman, but I later discovered it is something the local women deal with too. Besides that I always ALWAYS have felt safe in Jordan, everywhere any inch of the country. I have been everywhere on my own, without any trouble. But this works only with dressing up proper and with some respect for local culture. It is great country visit. Thanks for writing this blog.

Thank you for adding your insight! These are the stories people need to hear. Cheers!

Great read Lina! Glad you felt safe and enjoyed your time in Jordan. Jordan is indeed ‘the quiet house in a noisy neighborhood!’ Hope you make it again!

Welcome! You are right and so many people told us that same thing while we were there.

At first I would love to thank you about writing something we are looking to show it to the world as a Jordanians. Jordan is such a great place to visit whenever you get you time and your opportunity to make your dream come true to visit this country. and we are safe country to visit for all the people around the whole world, and the people of Jordan are friendly and respectful for the other. don’t let a little fear stop you to visit Jordan. Best wishes from Petra Archaeologist lives in Petra

I had a great time my son has been in Aqaba since September 2015 & has made some good friends who I met, they arranged a trip to Petra and Wadi Rum on three occasions, actually New Years Eve was spent with the Bedouin and 80 other European travellers French, Spanish, Dutch, on the third trip to Wadi we spent several hours with one of the family owners of a camp, a really great insight into how stuff works, I regularly drink mint tea as a result of the visit, very refreshing, I even went for a shave and haircut a guy from Egypt, in the shop was a guy from Syria, the haircut and shave was 3 Jordanian Dinar, I gave him 10JD and asked him to treat the Syrian and keep the change, lol…..the guys took me shopping bought 2 coats and 2 pairs of shoes all for less than 50JD bargain…great place great people, fly into Aqaba airport and your in your hotel in 10 mins….

Agreed, thanks for sharing! We need more people sharing the facts on the ground rather than fearing from their perception.

Love hearing about your experience and being an American living in Jordan, we get to experience this on a daily basis.

Hope to see you back!

Yes, there is a huge problem with people just assuming things this day in age. They watch the news, believe everything that is spoon fed to them and then rant an uneducated opinion about it. For people that are doing more research and are actually out exploring the World, we see things at face value. We loved Jordan, recommend it to fellow travelers and can’t wait to be back!

Good article Lina, I lived in amman for nearly 6 years and loved every moment and really miss it, Last trip back, I had a meeting with the Minister for Tourism and said all of the same to him, they know they need to work on changing the media and how the middle east is shown etc. But a lot of it is ignorance on peoples part, not being willing to read and research for themselves. And not just taking what is printed in papers as the gospel! ..enjoyed your article

Hi Evelyn, thanks for your comment. Yes, mainstream media is a real issue right now and people are just gullible. They believe whatever they are told without even doing more research! It’s frustrating. All we can do is share our positive experiences and hope people wise up a little. We loved Jordan and can’t wait to return to visit the places we missed and spend more time.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Connecting people and cultures through work and travel

International university students have the opportunity to travel to the US and work for the summer while fostering cultural exchange. Host companies have the opportunity to employ exceptional, motivated students from around the world.

SUPERIOR SERVICE & COMMITMENT TO A GLOBAL COMMUNITY

We create amazing work and travel experiences

Our international students.

As participants, you have the opportunity to travel and experience the U.S. while returning home with a global perspective. IWT provides the sponsorship of the J-1 visa, as well as job placement assistance, in-country support, and housing guidance.

Our Host Companies

As host companies, IWT helps you build a culturally enriching work environment by hiring international students during your peak seasonal needs. You foster public diplomacy by providing the opportunity for Americans to interact with cultures from around the world.

Five years ago I was introduced to Intrax and now I won’t use anybody else because I love Intrax. I love everybody I work with and the quality of students they bring. The J-1 program is absolutely one of the best things for American business, for diversity and to learn different cultures.

My Work and Travel experience has been unforgettable. I met so many new people, from so many different places, and I lived with them for almost three months... We started as strangers and by the end of the program we had become such good friends.

OUR FEATURED STORIES

Everyone has a story

Discover stories and tips from our students, hosts and team.

International Women's Day: Interview with Chef Erika Tucker

Williamsburg "Coffee with Cops" Event Engages International Students from Around the World

Women's History Month: Interview with Intrax President, Marcie Schneider

Your adventure awaits.

The Traveling Twin Mama

3 Epic Jordan Itineraries (2024): How to Spend 5-Days, 7-Days, and 10-Days in Jordan

Marquita’s Travels contains affiliate links and is a member of Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read my disclaimer for more information.

Jordan Itinerary

Considering visiting Jordan, a captivating realm where ancient history blends seamlessly with awe-inspiring landscapes and warm-hearted hospitality? Well, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure as there is a Jordan itinerary for everyone. From history buffs to adventure seekers, beach-goers, and busy metropolitan lovers, there’s literally something for every type of traveler in Jordan.

Nestled in the heart of the Middle East, Jordan boasts a rich cultural heritage dating back millennia. Its historical significance can be traced through iconic landmarks like the legendary Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as well as the local communities whose traditions go back centuries into history.

Similarly, its remarkably diverse landscape will leave you in awe of Jordan’s natural beauty, which also serves as a playground for adventure seekers with opportunities to sandboard, canyon, scuba dive, and more.

Throughout this blog post, we will guide you through 3 epic Jordan itineraries: 5-day, 7-day, and 10-day. I loved my time in Jordan as a solo female traveler so much, that I’m making it a priority to return with my husband and twin kindergarteners so they can also experience the beauty and culture of Jordan.

Jordan itinerary planning: Essential things to know

Contrary to some people’s beliefs, Jordan offers an endless amount of experiences and adventures. Therefore, some preparation is involved to ensure that you can fit all of your favorite things to do in Jordan into your itinerary while having a smooth and fulfilling experience.

How many days to stay in Jordan?

Jordan made its way to the top of my travel wishlist as Petra was my remaining new wonder of the world and I had a goal to visit all 7 wonders of the world before the age of 40. So when I had to go to Europe for work, 8 months before my 40th birthday, I knew I had to make it to Jordan while I was on that side of the pond. With the requirements of my work travel, I was only able to squeeze in 3 full days in Jordan.

To make the most of my Jordan itinerary, I enlisted the help of a driver. This allowed me to personally experience most of my top things to do in Jordan by traveling on my own schedule and resting while he drove from destination to destination.

If your schedule is more flexible than mines, I personally would recommend a minimum of 5 days in Jordan. This will allow you to see the top things to do in Jordan. However, if you want to go off the beaten path and explore more of the historical and biblical sites, as well as take part in more adventurous experiences, extend your stay in Jordan to 7 or 10 days.

Which International Airport to fly into Jordan?

Jordan has two scheduled (fixed schedule) international airports:

Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)

Queen Alia Internation Aiport is located in Amman and is the main Jordan international airport with over 35 airlines flying to over 50 destinations. The likelihood that you will fly in and out of Queen Alia International Airport is high. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Amman and a 2.5-3 hour drive to Petra.

Aqaba King Hussein International Airport (AQJ)

Aqaba King Hussein International Airport is located in Aqaba, situated in southernmost Jordan. It is the second-largest airport in Jordan serving 10 destinations in 9 countries. The airport is about a 15-minute drive from the city of Aqaba and a 2-hour drive to Petra.

Getting around Jordan

As previously mentioned, using a driver helped me maximize my Jordan itinerary by visiting 4 cities within 3-full days. If you have limited time in Jordan, I’d recommend getting a driver as many of the top things to do in Jordan are a 2-4 hour drive. Don’t spend your limited time or energy waiting on other people or driving yourself from destination to destination.

If your Jordan itinerary allows for more time, you can consider renting a car or taking the JETT bus .

Can tourists drive in Jordan?

Tourists with an international license can travel in Jordan. From my experience riding in Jordan, the roads between cities are relatively smooth and easy to drive, with most signs being in both Arabic and English. There are checkpoints along the highway and entering most hotels, so please observe those policies.

If you plan to drive in Amman, please note that traffic is chaotic. Think New York, on another level. With a lot of stop-and-go, honking, and traffic jams. If you’re not used to driving in this type of traffic, you may want to consider taking an Uber while in Amman.

✔️ Learn more about rental car rates in Jordan ✔️

Is there Uber in Jordan?

Yes, there is Uber in Jordan, specifically in Amman. The local option is Careem. Using Uber or Careem may be an easier option as you can type your address using the Roman alphabet rather than giving a taxi driver the address, although most Jordanian taxis speak English. Do note that the cost of rides with these services tends to be more expensive than a taxi.

Likewise, note that as you get outside of Amman, the availability of Uber and Careem decreases significantly. If you happen to book a ride to a destination outside of Amman, be sure to schedule a return ride in advance.

Is a visa required to enter Jordan?

Yes, US citizens do need a visa when entering Jordan. One can be acquired upon arrival at the airport and most international land border crossings. The Jordan Visa on Arrival cost 40 JD (about $56 USD) for a single entry visa. Stay in Jordan for at least 3 nights? Consider purchasing a Jordan Pass in advance as the visa is included in the cost.

Why do you need the Jordan Pass?

The Jordan Pass allows you to visit over 40 tourist attractions without any additional costs, including Petra. The cheapest Jordan Pass cost 70 JD and includes a 1-day entry to Petra, which normally cost 50 JD. If you’re you are staying in Jordan for at least 3 nights and plan to visit Petra, the Jordan Pass pays for itself, saving you 20 JD.

There are additional levels of the Jordan Pass that will allow you multiple-day entry into Petra.

Additional popular things to do in Jordan included in the Jordan Pass are Jerash, Wadi Rum, Amman Citadel, Karak Castle, Roman Theater Amman, and so many more.

What to wear in Jordan?

Jordan is a traditional Muslim country so striking the delicate balance between being respectful to the local culture and dressing comfortably for yourself is essential. The main guideline I stuck to as traveling in Jordan as a solo female traveler was to cover my shoulders, my knees, and my butt.

✔️ Explore what I wore in my Jordan Fashionable Female Packing Guide ✔️

Jordan Itinerary: 5 days in Jordan

On your Jordan vacation, you can hit the most popular things to do in Jordan by following the 5 days in Jordan itinerary provided below. Not only will you cross a world wonder off of your travel bucket list, but you will also experience the diverse natural landscape that Jordan has to offer, from the desert to the sea. There will also be time for you to mingle with the locals as you explore Jordan’s busiest city, Amman.

Itinerary #1

Jordan 5-day itinerary: petra, wadi rum, the dead sea, amman, day 1: petra, jordan itinerary.

Upon arriving at Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), at 4 AM, my Jordan itinerary immediately began with us taking the 3-hour drive to Petra. My driver recommended that we go to Petra immediately as we would get there soon after it opens (they open at 6 AM), and beat the majority of the crowd and heat (I went in May).

The only way I could pull this adventure off immediately after getting off a red-eye flight is because I had a driver. I slept the majority of the ride.

If possible, I recommend that you do the same, especially if you land in Jordan early in the morning. Going straight to Petra will maximize your Jordan itinerary as you won’t be able to check into most hotels until hours later.

Is Petra worth visiting?

Absolutely! Not only is Petra, the iconic rose-red city carved into the rock cliffs of southern Jordan, one of the seven new wonders of the world, but it’s also absolutely breathtaking, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Visiting Petra is like stepping into a place, where history, beauty, and awe-inspiring architecture meet.

Things to do in Petra

The Siq and Treasury

Upon entering Petra, The Siq, Petra’s ancient main entrance will mesmerize you as you walk through its rock canal that stands over 260 feet high (80 meters) and 525 feet long (160 meters). Along your 30-minute walk through The Siq, your senses will be enveloped in its natural beauty, leaving you with a sense of wonder.

Soon you will reach the iconic Treasury whose grandeur and scale will leave you in awe. If you’re like me, you may think this is where the adventure of Petra ends, when in fact, it’s just beginning.

As you walk past the Treasury, Petra’s expansive archaeological site reveals an array of remarkable structures, including Royal tombs and the Roman Theater. Each structure takes you back in history, giving you a glimpse into the ancient Nabatean culture.

Tour guides aren’t required to visit Petra. However, if you want to better understand what you’re seeing, you may want to get one.

✔️ Learn more about Petra’s History with a Private, Licensed Tour Guide ✔️

The Monastery

To get the full Petra experience, journey up the 850 steps to the Monastery where the viewpoints provide an unparalleled perspective and an opportunity to connect with the raw beauty of the surroundings. Luckily, the journey up can be done slowly with multiple opportunities to grab a cold drink, shop, and/or rest.

Round trip to the Monastery, I walked almost 25,000 steps within a 5-hour timeframe!

The magic of Petra’s ability to transport you back into history while offering a sense of wonder and adventure made visiting Petra worth taking every last step as its beauty, mystery, and timeless appeal is like none other.

Petra by Night

Want an even more magical experience when visiting Petra? Return to Petra on a Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday evening at 20:30 and become engulfed in the magic of this ancient city as you walk through the Sig to the Treasury, illuminated with over 1500 candles.

A licensed tour guide will escort you back to the visitor center around 22:30. Tickets for this unique experience are 17 JD, with children under 10 being free.

Horseback Riding

Explore off the beaten path on horseback the ancient desert trails once used by the Nabateans, Romans, and Bedouins. On this 2-hour journey, you’ll stop at the High Place of Sacrifice as you enjoy the breathtaking views of the ancient city.

Where to Stay Near Petra

Petra is located in Wadi Musa, “Valley of Moses”. It is said to be the location where Moses struck water at Ain Musa , which is known as “Moses Spring” or “Moses’ Well” in English. Outside of Petra’s hotels, restaurants, and shops, there are few additional must-see things to do in Wadi Musa (you can stop to see Moses Spring if you’d like).

Thus, it’s recommended that you drive to your next destination, Wadi Rum. This drive will take you about 1.5 hours.

After a red-eye flight, a 3-hour drive to Petra, and 25,000 steps it may be challenging for some to endure the additional drive to Wadi Rum, which is understandable. Below are recommended hotels in Wadi Musa.

Petra Marriott Hotel

Petra Marriott Hotel is a nice, modern hotel in Wadi Musa (Petra) that offers amazing views of the mountain and valley. The food is phenomenal (try the Bedouin dinner), and the staff is very friendly and helpful.

Petra Aretas Hotel

Petra Aretas Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel within walking distance of Petra’s visitor center. The staff is beyond welcoming, the accommodations are clean and well-appointed, and the breakfast is complimentary and delicious.

Day 2: Wadi Rum, Jordan Itinerary

The second stop on your Jordan 5-day itinerary is Wadi Rum, Valley of the Moons. This enchanting and mesmerizing desert landscape offers an unparalleled experience with its towering sandstone cliffs and vast red desert plains. Here in Wadi Rum, you will get a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Bedouin people, who have inhabited the region for centuries- from staying in a desert camp to sharing in traditional meals.

Is Wadi Rum worth visiting?

100% Adding Wadi Rum to your Jordan 5-day itinerary is absolutely worth it. Its dramatic rock formations and over 20,00 inscriptions etched onto the canyon walls transport you into its rich history while leaving you with a sense of profound serenity with its endless landscape of sand and rocks. Be sure to catch the sunset and sunrise as the magic intensifies as the sun illuminates nature’s tapestry.

Beyond the stunning natural beauty of Wadi Rum, the welcoming hospitality of the Bedouin people makes you feel at home. As if you belong. A sense of calmness and peace overtakes you as you slow things down and take in the rich culture that Wadi Rum has to offer.

As you plan your Jordan itinerary, keep in mind that the closer you arrive to the start of check-in, the better. This will allow you more time to experience the magic of Wadi Rum, especially if you’re only staying for 1 evening. Personally, I went straight to Wadi Rum after Petra, checking into my camp around 430. This left only an hour to relax and clean up before my first Wadi Rum experience.

How many days to stay in Wadi Rum?

A 1-2 day stay in Wadi Rum is a perfect addition to your Jordan itinerary. I personally stayed in Wadi Rum for 1 evening, arriving around 430PM and leaving at checkout the next morning, at 10 AM. If I had more time to stay in Jordan, I would’ve loved to stay an additional evening.

Things to do in Wadi Rum

  There are various ways to explore the beauty, history, and wonder of Wadi Rum. From simply taking in its beauty at your camp or the visitor’s center to booking a tour and getting a more intimate experience with the Valley of the Moons. Below are details of some of the unique things to do in Wadi Rum.

Wadi Rum Visitor Center

To enter the protected area of Wadi Rum, you must stop at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center for entry. If you purchased the Jordan Pass, entry to Wadi Rum is included. If not, entry cost 5 JD for non-residents. Children under 12 are free.

At the visitor center, you’ll receive a stamp to enter the protected area, as well as a map and tour list prices. The price list will help you plan out your Wadi Rum, Jordan itinerary if you haven’t booked anything in advance. It’ll also give you an idea of what the tours should cost to ensure you’re not getting ripped off.

I personally ate at the restaurant at the visitor center. The food was rather tasty and affordable. Inside the have posters of the various movies that were filmed in Wadi Rum like Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, Aladdin, Star Wars: Episode IX- The Rise of Skywalker, The Maritan, and dozens more.

If you can only do one of the various things to do in Wadi Rum, Jordan, a Jeep Tour is a must-add to your itinerary. They offer Jeep Tours that can fit into anyone’s Jordan itinerary, from 2 hours to a full day.

Do note that the Jeep Tour may not actually be in a Jeep. It will be in some type of pickup truck with 2 benches attached to the bed of the truck. Here, you’ll be able to take in the beautiful views of the Wadi Rum.

During your tour, you will make multiple stops which may vary depending on the length of the tour you booked. Be prepared to do some climbing on sand dunes in order to take in the full beauty of the landscape. Some stops may include canyons, sand dunes, rock bridges, iconic monuments and inscriptions, and even time to have tea under a traditional Bedouin tent.

✔️ Learn more about Jeep Tour Options and Add-Ons ✔️

Optional Jeep Tour Add-Ons

Jeep Tours not only offer you the opportunity to explore Wadi Rum with a local tour guide but there are also multiple add-on options to customize your Jeep Tour to your personal liking.

Sandboarding

Many Jeep Tour operators offer the option to add sandboarding . There are multiple red sand dunes to sandboard but one of the common places is Al Hasany dunes. Be prepared to climb up the sand dune in order to sandboard in case the truck can’t drive up it.

✔️ Learn more about adding sandboarding to your Wadi Rum Jeep Tour ✔️

Camel Rides

Another potential thing to do on your Jordan Jeep Tour is a camel ride. You can request to add on a camel ride which ranges in time from 30-90 minutes. If your Jordan itinerary doesn’t allow time to do a camel ride during your Jeep Tour, there is an option to do it during your time at Petra.

Hikes/Rock Climbing

Similar to sandboarding and camel rides, hiking and rock climbing are options you can add to your Jeep Tour. It’s not recommended to hike on your own as there is a risk of getting lost in the endless red sand landscape. If you’re looking for a full-day hike, sans a Jeep Tour, check out this one .

✔️ Prefer a full-day Wadi Rum hiking experience, check out this one ✔️

Imagine taking in the mesmerizing beauty of Wadi Rum, on horseback. Tours range from 3 hours to a full day, with some including an overnight experience. Get more details here as you have to reach out to the company to book your tour.

Watch Sunset/Sunrise

You can not go to Wadi Rum without experiencing the magic that takes over Wadi Rum during a sunset or sunrise. Be sure to sit outside, in the sand, and bask in the extraordinary allure of the sun illuminating the stunning natural beauty of Wadi Rum.

Where to stay in Wadi Rum

An overnight stay in a Wadi Rum Bedouin campsite is a unique thing to do in Jordan, and in my opinion, a must as it was one of the highlights of my Jordan itinerary. It’s something magical about viewing the serene landscape from your bed.

Most campsites feature a Martian dome tent that gives you a panoramic view of the gorgeous landscape. Others also include panoramic tents, which aren’t as large as the Martian dome tent but the view is just as gorgeous.

No matter where you choose to book, do so as soon as possible as many camps sell out, especially the Martian dome and panoramic tents.

Luxury Wadi Rum Campsite

Memories Aicha Luxury Camp

Experience the timeless landscape of Wadi Rums’ natural beauty in a glass-style Martian dome or panoramic luxury suite. Memories Aicha Luxury Camp offers some of the most beautiful suites in Jordan’s desert and the food is delicious.

Sun City Camp

Similar to Memories Aicha Luxury Camp, Sun City Camp is one of the most luxurious campsites in Wadi Rum providing spotless Martian domes with breathtaking views of the desert. The food buffets offer a variety of delicious food that can fit most dietary needs. This is where I had initially booked to stay, but due to a schedule mixup, I was unable to make my reservation.

Budget-Friendly Wadi Rum Campsite

Luxury Rum Magic

A lower-cost campsite option is  Luxury Rum Magic . Due to a mix-up in booking dates, I stayed here in one of their panoramic tents. It included a beautiful view, a private bathroom, and a nice breakfast and dinner buffet. For half the price of the Sun City Camp booking, it was worth the money.

Day 3-4: Dead Sea, Jordan Itinerary

Nestled between Jordan and Israel, the Dead Sea is a natural wonder unlike any other on Earth as its high salt content and buoyancy allow you to float along its tranquil waters. Throughout history, its therapeutic waters have drawn people to it. Plus, sitting at over 1400 feet UNDER sea level, makes it the lowest point on earth.

Is the Dead Sea worth visiting?

The Dead Sea is worth visiting and should be added to your Jordan itinerary. This is especially true for those who have an interest in experiencing attractions visited by mankind through history and the bible. As well as those who are intrigued by the surreal and unparalleled floating sensation and healing properties of its mineral-rich water and mud.

A visit to the Dead Sea is not just about experiencing its unique properties; it’s about immersing yourself in a transformative encounter with nature that connects you with history.

There are so many unique things to do near the Dead Sea, Jordan that it’s worth staying two days here, even in a 5-day Jordan itinerary.

Things to do in the Dead Sea, Jordan

Adding the Dead Sea to your Jordan 5-day itinerary offers you the best of a variety of worlds- luxuriating relaxation, experiencing biblical history, and indulging in adrenaline-inducing adventure. You will not be disappointed by spending at least one day experiencing the mesmerizing landscapes surrounding the sea, with the stark desert backdrop and salt-encrusted shores.

Float in the Dead Sea

You can’t add the Dead Sea to your Jordan itinerary without trying your hand at floating in the Dead Sea. Many hotels have direct access to the Dead Sea, making it easy to experience the magic of its waters. If you’re not staying at a hotel with Dead Sea access, you can go to a public beach ( Amman Beach or O Beach ) with a relatively inexpensive entry fee, but the ratings on them are not the greatest.

A better, but more expensive option, is getting a day pass at one of the resorts.

Movenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea

Movenpick is one of the most luxurious beach and pool experiences that the Dead Sea has to offer. Day passes are around 75JD per person which gives you access to the private beach, shower, changing rooms, pool area, and 15 JD meal credit. If there are 2 or more adults in your party, you may want to opt on getting a room as it may be cheaper.

✔️ Get Movenpick Resort & Spa nightly rates ✔️

Dead Sea Marriott & Resort

The Dead Sea Marriott has Dead Sea Beach access as well as 3 outdoor swimming pools and an infinity pool with dynamic views. Day passes cost about 50 JD, which includes a food and beverage credit. Call the hotel for the most up-to-date pricing.

✔️ Get Dead Sea Marriot & Resort nightly rates ✔️

Dead Sea Spa Hotel

Dead Sea Spa Hotel offers a nice budget-friendly option with day passes at about 20 JD. The price includes access to the Dead Sea, changing room, chairs/loungers by the sea, mud scrub, showers, lifeguards, swimming pools, and a bar and cafe. Do note that towels and lockers each cost an additional 3 JD.

Get a Mud Scrub

The Dead Sea is notorious for its mineral-rich mud and water that has therapeutic powers. Most hotels offer complimentary mud scrub opportunities. The rules- soak in the Dead Sea for 10 minutes, apply the scrub, wait for 10 minutes, and rinse the scrub off your body in the Dead Sea. Do not, and I repeat, do not, rinse the scrub off your face with Dead Sea water because the water’s salt consistency will leave your eyes burning.

Soak in a Hot Spring

Ma’in Hot Spring Resort & Spa is home to 3 waterfalls and multiple gender-separated public pools for bathing, as well as a family pool- which men are not allowed. Do note that depending on the amount of rainfall, all 3 waterfalls may not be running, as well as some of the water may be hot to touch in the summer. The entrance fee is 15 JD and includes 2 pools, with the largest pool reserved for resort guests.

Experience Biblical History

Experience the location of one of the most important events in biblical history, the Baptismal site of Jesus Christ . Located on the Jordan water with views of Israel, this historical destination is about 30 minutes away from the Dead Sea. The entrance fee is 12 JD, and free for those with the Jordan Pass. You can even get into the water. What an experience!

Canyon Al Wadi Mujib

Explore the rugged beauty of the Jordanian landscape from a completely different perspective by canyoning at Al Wadi Mujib Adventure Center. Al Wadi Mujib , also known as the Mujib Gorge, is a dramatic and awe-inspiring canyon located in the eastern part of the Dead Sea region, about a 90-minute drive from the Dead Sea beaches and Amman. Here you will rappel down steep cliffs, slide into refreshing pools, and swim through narrow gorges, leaving you with a sense of exhilaration and achievement.

Be sure to come prepared (unlike me). Pack water shoes with good traction or quick dry hiking shoes because you will get wet and good traction while canyoning is key. If you would like to bring your phone to take pictures, bring a sturdy waterproof bag . Get my full Jordan packing list for Al Wadi Mujib.

If you love an adrenaline rush, it’s worth adding to your Jordan 5-day itinerary. Also note, there may be a wait before you can start canyoning, due to capacity limits.

How easy is it to complete the Siq Trail at Wadi Mujib?

I am going to be honest, completing the Siq Trail at Wadi Mujib is one of the most challenging things I’ve done physically. The experience of navigating through the gorge, sometimes having to squeeze through narrow passages, leap into pools, and pull yourself up a large slippery boulder, brings you face to face with the raw power and beauty of the natural world.

If you’re up for both a mental and physical challenge, be sure to add the Siq Trail to your Jordan 5-day itinerary as it offers an unforgettable blend of excitement, natural beauty, and a sense of accomplishment.

Where to stay in The Dead Sea, Jordan

Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa

My experience at Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa was excellent! So much so, that my stay here was the pivotal point where I knew I had to return to Jordan with my family. Located right on the Dead Sea, not only does the hotel offers direct access to the Dead Sea Beach, but they also have complimentary mud scrub with attendees to assist, if desired. There are multiple pools, including one for kids-only, another for families, another for adults-only, and an infinity pool with a spectacular view of the Dead Sea .

The excellent service, modern and well-maintained accommodations, and delicious food were the perfect additions to make my stay here memorable.

✔️ Do yourself a favor and check out the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa ✔️

Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea

Another 5-star, luxurious experience on the Dead Sea is the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea . Guests in the reviews tout this hotel as the most luxurious stay on the Dead Sea. During your stay, you will take in the unbelievable view of the Dead Sea, be pampered by their friendly and accommodating staff, and enjoy delicious cuisine from their multiple restaurants and bars.

✔️ Learn more about the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea ✔️

Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea, an IHG Hotel

Nestled on the Dead Sea, the Holiday Inn gives direct access to the floating waters of this unique sea. The resort includes 4 swimming pools with plenty of lounge chairs to accommodate everyone’s leisure. Out of the hotels with direct beach access, at a more affordable price point, it has some of the best reviews.

Day 5: Amman, Jordan Itinerary

Amman, the home to over 4 million Jordanians, is the capital city of Jordan which offers unique experiences and cultural encounters. From its ancient landmarks to its lively markets and culinary delights, Amman offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. To get a more complete Jordanian experience, be sure to include Amman on your 5-day Jordan itinerary.

If possible, arrive in Amman on the afternoon of Day 4 of your Jordan itinerary, to allow more time to explore the bustling city.

Things to do in Amman

✔️ Limited on time? Take a Private 3-Hour City Tour ✔️

Amman’s unique blend of history, culture, and vibrant urban life makes it a city that must be added to any Jordan itinerary. Whether you’re strolling through its ancient ruins, bargaining for treasures in the markets, or savoring delectable cuisine, Amman offers an enriching and authentic experience that reflects the essence of Jordanian hospitality and its captivating spirit.

Amman Citadel

Perfectly situated on a hilltop overlooking the bustling cityscape of Amman, the Amman Citadel is a historical gem that should be included in your 5-day Jordan itinerary. This ancient site boasts a remarkable collection of archaeological ruins, including the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and the Byzantine Church. Plus, it’s a nice reprieve from the busy streets of Amman, offering a serene and peaceful escape from the bustling city below.

The entrance fee is 3 JD but free for those with the Jordan Pass.

Roman Theater

The Roman Theater in Amman was built during the 2nd century AD. It is one of the most magnificent theaters as it’s one of the largest and best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Its impressive size, seating up to 6,000 spectators, and its remarkable architectural design make it an iconic landmark in Amman. Additionally, the Roman Theater offers breathtaking panoramic views of Amman’s cityscape, making it a great spot to take memorable photographs.

The entrance fee is 2 JD but free for those with the Jordan Pass.

Jabal Amman and Rainbow Street

Jabal Amman and Rainbow Street are vibrant and bustling areas in Amman that offer a wonderful mix of culture, history, and contemporary charm. Jabal Amman exudes a captivating old-world allure with its traditional houses, boutique shops, art galleries, and local cafes.

Within the Jabal Amman neighborhood is the lively and popular Rainbow Street, known for its trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. This bustling stretch offers a vibrant atmosphere and is a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists to indulge in a cup of aromatic Arabic coffee, savor a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants, or shop for unique local crafts. In the evenings, you will find live music performances and a lively street scene.

Get a cultural experience at a Souk

Amman’s markets, known as souks, are vibrant cultural hubs that showcase the diversity and rich heritage of Jordan. Here, you can browse through a variety of items, including textiles, spices, handicrafts, jewelry, traditional Jordanian clothing, and so much more. Some of the most popular souks are Al Balad Market-located near the Roman Theater, Souk Jara- a seasonal market (May-Oct) located in the Jabal Amman district, and Downtown Souk.

Each market offers its own personality with a variety of local artisans showcasing their crafts, live music filling the air, and delicious street food tempting your taste buds.

Enjoy the culinary scene

Amman’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, where traditional Jordanian cuisine intertwines with influences from the broader Middle Eastern region. From traditional foods like mansaf, the national dish of Jordan, and falafel to Makmoura which is an innovative approach to the traditional dish Makloubeh, Amman’s food scene is ever-evolving.

Exploring the city’s diverse food offerings is an essential part of any Jordan itinerary.

✔️ Experience Amman with a full-day, private tour ✔️

Where to stay in Amman

Marriott amman.

I personally stayed at the Marriott Amman and the service was absolutely spectacular as all of the staff was very attentive and helpful. The contemporary decor is very well maintained and the accommodations, including the multiple pools and restaurants, were exactly what I needed after staying in my 4th hotel, in 4 days.

✔️ The reviews speak for themselves. Over 300 reviews with an 8.8/10 rating ✔️ Learn more about the Marriott Amman

The House Boutique Suites

Located less than a half mile from the infamous Rainbow Street, The House Boutique Suites offers both luxury and convenience. Not only are the rooms spacious and the rooftop pool relaxing, but all of the accommodations are very well-maintained. Similarly, you won’t be disappointed by the delicious food and helpful staff.

✔️ The reviews speak for themselves. Over 400 reviews with a 9.4/10 rating ✔️ Learn more about The House Boutique Suites

The Compass Hotel

A great budget-friendly Amman hotel option, The Compass Hotel offers nice accommodations with breakfast included. Located in the city center, it’s relatively easy and inexpensive to get to your favorite things to do in Amman. And for those who are driving, self-parking is free!

✔️ The reviews speak for themselves. Over 100 reviews with a 9.0/10 rating ✔️ Learn more about The Compass Hotel

Itinerary #2

Jordan 7-day itinerary: aqaba, wadi rum, petra, the dead sea, amman.

The 7-day Jordan itinerary, adds in the luxurious Red Sea pristine and clear beachfront waters. This additional Jordan destination adds both relaxation and luxury to your Jordan itinerary. So come prepared to dive or snorkel in Aqaba’s breathtaking waters or just admire it from their luxurious beachfront properties.

Day 1: Aqaba, Jordan

Nestled on the stunning shores of the Red Sea, is a haven for beach lovers and underwater enthusiasts. Because of its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, snorkeling and diving opportunities are abundant. In fact, its warm waters and excellent visibility make Aqaba an ideal destination for both beginners and experienced divers.

Additionally, Aqaba is filled with a rich history and culture that should be explored. The combination of Aqaba’s natural beauty, historical significance, and thrilling activities make it a destination worth adding to your Jordan 7-day itinerary.

If possible, fly into Aqaba so you don’t have to make the 4-hour drive from Amman. However, if you do fly into Amman, no worries. You are not driving much further than you would if you were driving to Wadi Rum (1 hour from Aqaba).

Things to do in Aqaba, Jordan

Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

Embark on a journey across the Red Sea’s turquoise waters aboard a specially designed glass-bottom boat , providing a window to the breathtaking coral reef and the underwater world below. The excursion is led by knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary, including facts about the coral reefs, marine life, and the region’s conservation efforts.

This is an excellent Aqaba activity for those who want to witness the beauty of the Red Sea’s marine ecosystem without getting wet, making it an ideal option for non-swimmers or those who prefer to stay dry.

Private Scuba Diving Experience

Love scuba diving? Or always wanted to try it? Be sure to add a private scuba diving experience to your Jordan 7-day itinerary. With over 20 dive sites, Aqaba offers dives to accommodate both introductory and certified dives.

My Jordanian driver mentioned this experience to me and detailed how amazingly special it is. I’ll be sure to add it to my Jordan itinerary when I return with my family.

✔️ Learn more about Scuba Diving in Aqaba ✔️

Enjoy the Pristine Beaches

Aqaba’s pristine coastline makes it the perfect destination to add to your Jordan 7-day itinerary for those in search of a peaceful escape or an active beach experience. Some of the most popular Aqaba beaches:

South Beach – Close to Aqaba’s city center, South Beach is a free, public beach with lounger chairs and a variety of restaurants and cafes. If you plan to swim or snorkel, be sure to wear swim shoes as the water can be rather rocky and the coral reef are close to the shoreline.

Tala Bay Beach – Less than 10 miles from Aqaba’s city center, Tala Bay Beach is a booming beachfront area that contains a marina, hotels, restaurants, and more. The beach boasts soft white sands, calm turquoise waters, and stunning views of the Red Sea.

Berenice Beach Club – This is the perfect beach club for those who are looking for a blend of relaxation and adventure, with comfortable sun loungers, swimming pools, and a range of water activities and games.

Where to Stay in Aqaba, Jordan

Kempinski Hotel Aqaba

Kempinski Hotel Aqaba is the epitome of opulence and impeccable service. The resort’s attention to detail, elegant rooms and suites, private balconies, and breathtaking sea views, make it the perfect stay for those looking to luxuriate along the Aqaba coast.

✔️ Check Kempinski rates and availability ✔️

Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Aqaba

Al Manara is a beautiful beachfront hotel situated on a private Red Sea beach, offering luxurious, well-maintained accommodations. From their private balconies and spacious rooms to their beautiful pool and top-tier service, this hotel has what you need to enjoy Aqaba. Plus, you can’t beat the location.

✔️ Check Al Manara rates and availability ✔️

A budget-friendly hotel that offers affordable luxury as it’s located along a private, beachfront. The accommodations are clean and the staff is friendly and willing to help plan your Jordan itinerary in Aqaba, including snorkeling and diving excursions.

✔️ Check TAJ Hotel rates and availability ✔️

Day 2-3: Aqaba/Wadi Rum Itinerary

You’ve enjoyed the first day of your Jordan 7-day itinerary and now you’re ready for more. Depending on if you want to squeeze a few extra hours sunbathing in Aqaba, leave the area in time to get to Wadi Rum around your camp’s check-in time, or earlier. This will allow you to spend a part of day 2, exploring Wadi Rum.

As a reminder, Wadi Rum is also known as the Valley of the Moons due to its endless red sand dunes, narrow canyons, and towering rock bridges that dot the landscape. If you only have time for one unique thing to do in Wadi Rum, be sure to make it a Jeep tour . This will allow you to embrace the unique landscape while learning about the Bedouin culture.

Be sure to learn more about additional things to do in Wadi Rum and where to stay in the Jordan 5-day itinerary section above.

Day 4: Petra, Jordan Itinerary

Now that you’ve explored the Valley of the Moons, its now time to enjoy one of the wonders of the world, Petra. If you’re up to it, wake up early, grab breakfast at your campsite, and embark on the 1 hour and 45-minute journey to Petra. Aim to get there before 9 AM to beat the crowd and heat. If you’re a super-early riser, get on the road when you wake. Petra opens at 6 AM. Do remember that if you plan to walk to the monastery, it’s over 20,000 steps and a 5-hour adventure.

Day 5: Dead Sea, Jordan Itinerary

After driving almost 2 hours and walking 20, 000 steps at Petra yesterday, you may want to wait to make the 3-hour drive from Petra to the Dead Sea until Day 5 of your Jordan 7-day itinerary. This will allow you the time to make the drive while you’re refreshed and reward yourself by floating in the magical waters of the Dead Sea when you arrive.

If you still have energy, you can visit one of the additional attractions I have listed in the things to do in the Dead Sea section under the Jordan 5-day itinerary above.

Day 6-7: Amman, Jordan Itinerary

Amman is located less than a 1-hour drive from the Dead Sea. So feel free to explore more of the Dead Sea and the surrounding areas before making your journey to Amman.

Once you’re in Amman, be sure to add time to explore the historical ruins of Citadel Amman and the Roman theater. As well as the more contemporary district, Jabal Amman and Rainbow Street. If your Jordan 7-day itinerary allows time, take in the Jordanian culture at one of their infamous souks, as well as their diverse culinary scene.

Itinerary #3

Jordan 10-day itinerary: aqaba, wadi rum, petra, dana nature reserve, kerak, madaba, dead sea, as salt, jerash, and amman.

The 10-day Jordan itinerary combines the best that Jordan has to offer. From Jordan’s varying landscapes of the Red Sea’s pristine beachfront or the endless red sand dunes of Wadi Rum to exploring some of Jordan’s most historical destinations like Petra and Amman, there is literally something for every type of traveler. This 10-day Jordan itinerary especially lends itself to history and bible buffs as there are 2 days with destinations that focus primarily on these subjects.

Day 1: Aqaba, Jordan Itinerary

Of course, with 10 days in Jordan, you have the most flexibility to extend your stay in destinations that really appeal to your travel style and quickly visit or emit those that may not be of interest.

Depending if you have to drive 4 hours to Aqaba from landing in Amman or if you flew directly into Aqaba, will determine if you will need the extra half day or so in Aqaba. If you love the water, be sure to book a snorkel or diving experience in the Red Sea. The water is abundantly clear, making it such a fun and unique thing to do in Jordan.

Day 2-3: Aqaba/Wadi Rum, Jordan Itinerary

Travel from one beautiful Jordan landscape, the pristine beachfront of the Red Sea to another, the endless landscape of red sand at Wadi Rum. If you’re not much of a beachgoer or think you can get your diving in on the first day, opt to spend days 2 and 3 of your 10-day Jordan itinerary dedicated to Wadi Rum.

In parts, it can be relaxing since it’s rather secluded, in the sense that it’s not recommended that you walk around Wadi Rum unguided as you can easily get lost in its endless tapestry of red sand and dunes. But it’s unique. There’s no place on earth like Wadi Rum- from the unique landscape to the culture, and the beautiful Martian domes and panoramic tents.

If you can only do one thing while in Wadi Rum, make sure it’s a Jeep tour. And the longer you are in Wadi Rum, the more you can include. If you’re there for 2 nights, be sure to try sandboarding , and for the hiking lovers, try a full-day Wadi Rum hiking tour .

Petra, the marvelous new wonder of the world known for its iconic rose-red city carved into the rock cliffs, transports you back to where the ancient Nabatean culture unfolds before your eyes. As you walk in the footsteps of past civilizations, you become part of a living narrative, immersing yourself in the stories, myths, and legends of the people who once thrived within these walls.

For the average traveler, spending one day at Petra will suffice. On that day, you can walk from the beginning to the monastery, which is basically the end. That will take you more than 20,000 steps and about 5 hours. During that time you will quickly scan most of the architecture and get a high-level understanding of the history.

However, there are people who spend 2 or more days visiting Petra, to fully understand the history. If you plan on spending the night in Wadi Musa, the town where Petra is located, consider doing Petra by Night where the Siq path to the Treasury is candlelit. What a special experience!

✔️ Check hotel availability and rates in Wadi Musa (Petra) ✔️

Day 5: Dana Biosphere Nature Reserve , Jordan Itinerary

Staying in Jordan for 10 days allows you to explore some of the country’s hidden gems. Nestled in the rugged and picturesque landscape of southern Jordan, the Dana Biosphere Nature Reserve is a vast reserve that spans almost 200 square miles and offers a diverse range of activities and experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

From hiking the stunning trails of varying difficulty levels, you can explore the rugged canyons, towering cliffs, and breathtaking viewpoints that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Plus it’s home to a rich array of wildlife and agriculture, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers.

The experience goes beyond exploring nature but it also allows visitors to engage in cultural experiences, such as visiting the charming village of Dana, where you can interact with the friendly local Bedouin community and learn about their traditional way of life.

✔️ Skip the planning, learn more about 3-Day Private Tour: Dana, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba, and Dead Sea ✔️

✔️ Love Hiking? Trek from Dana to Petra in a multi-day guided tour ✔️

Wadi Ghuweir Trail

The Wadi Ghuweir Trail located in Dana Reserve is a must-add to your Jordan 10-day itinerary for adventure and nature enthusiasts. Its natural beauty is picturesque with cascading and natural waterfalls, towering cliffs, and narrow canyons, offering opportunities for swimming and canyoning.

Reaching the start of the trail is fairly easy. Simply drive and park in the parking lot (a 4×4 vehicle is NOT required), and the start of the trail is right there, along the water. The hike itself is moderately difficult with a continual stream of flowing water that’s normally about ankle deep.

Located towards the end of the trail is a beautiful cascade waterfall. To the waterfall and back is about a 4-hour excursion or so, depending on the pace and number of stops. A guide is not necessary as there are signs to direct your path.

Where to stay in Dana Nature Reserve

Dana is a 1-hour drive from Petra and 2-hour drive to Kerak, the next stop on your 10-day Jordan itinerary. So depending on how you’d like to spend your time in Jordan, you can plan your overnight stays, accordingly.

If time permits, to get a unique perspective on the Bedouin community outside of Wadi Rum, consider staying in Dana. They offer eco-friendly accommodations that will immerse you in the tranquility and serenity of the reserve.

Dana Village Camp-Wadi Dana Eco Camp

Wadi Dana Eco Camp is a beautiful eco-friendly camp that overlooks Wadi Dana and Dana Reserve offering breathtaking views. It is completely powered by solar-powered banks and natural water springs. Ran by local farmers and the community cooperative, the workers take pride in the service they provide- including a 4×4 car service that transports you from the village to the campsite.

They offer both en-suite chalets and tents with shared bathrooms, all of which have amazing views. Likewise, the complimentary breakfast buffet is delicious, as well as the restaurant for dinner.

Al Nawatef Camp ECO camp Dana Nature Reserve

Offering breathtaking views of Dana Nature Reserve, Al Nawtef Camp is an eco-friendly camp that will immerse you in the traditional Bedouin lifestyle. The staff is beyond friendly, helping to plan nature hikes and guides, including treks to Little Petra.

Do note that the bathrooms are shared and a delicious breakfast is included.

Day 6: Kerak/Madaba, Jordan Itinerary

Now that you have visited Jordan’s breathtakingly beautiful natural landscapes of Aqaba, Wadi Rum, and. Dana Reserve, it’s time to learn more about its historical significance. On Day 6 of your Jordan 10-day itinerary, you’re going to drive 2 hours along the scenic Kings Highway from Dana Reserve to Kerak.

Once you have marveled at the medieval and ancient city of Kerak, you will continue your historical exploration for about 2 hours to Madaba, another historically rich city with incredible biblical significance.

Kerak provides a captivating glimpse into Jordan’s storied past, as the city played an important and strategic role during the Crusader period. Its impressive architectural marvels and unique ancient city charm will immerse you in Jordan’s history and be a worthwhile addition to your Jordan 10-day itinerary, especially for those who are seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Jordan.

Kerak Castle

One of the 3 biggest castles in the area, Kerak Castle is a Crusader fortress that sits on a hilltop, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. This well-preserved fortress offers labyrinthine corridors, underground tunnels, and battlements providing a fascinating insight into the region’s history.

The entrance fee is 2 JD but free for those with the Jordan pass. Parking is 3 JD but that fee is waived if you eat at the attached restaurant. Do note, that there are a lot of steps, so bring your comfy shoes.

Al-Kerak City

Al-Kerak City boasts a vibrant old town with narrow alleys and bustling markets. Stroll through the vibrant streets, soak in the authentic atmosphere, and browse the local shops offering traditional crafts and souvenirs. For the foodies, be sure to try the delicious local cuisine, which features dishes such as Mansaf (a traditional Jordanian dish) and delectable sweet treats.

Considering staying in Kerak? Learn more about hotel availability and rates.

Continue learning the country’s historical significance on your 10-day Jordan itinerary by driving a little less than 2 hours down the scenic Kings Highway to Madaba. Madaba is famously known as the “City of Mosaics” due to its remarkable collection of Byzantine and Umayyad mosaic art.

The Madaba Map is the most renowned mosaic as a result of its size and level of detail. Located on the floor of the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, this 6th-century masterpiece depicts over 150 biblical sites, including Jerusalem, Jericho, Bethlehem, and the Dead Sea, making it one of the oldest surviving cartographic representations of the Holy Land.

The map offers a glimpse into the geography, topography, and religious significance of the region during the Byzantine period. It showcases cities, villages, rivers, mountains, and even individual buildings, all meticulously crafted with vibrant mosaic tiles. Adding the Madaba Map to your Jordan 10-day itinerary allows you to explore the mosaic’s intricate patterns which transport you back in time, giving you a deeper appreciation of the Holy Land’s significance.

Madaba Archaeological Park

The Madaba Archaeological Park showcases a collection of fascinating mosaics and ancient ruins, transporting visitors into the past to uncover the stories of the bygone civilizations that once thrived in the area. One of the most impressive elements of the park is the preservation of the mosaic floors, including the Church of the Virgin Mary. The mosaics depict a wide range of subjects, including mythological scenes, hunting scenes, and daily life activities.

In addition to the mosaics, the park is home to several ancient structures and ruins, such as the remains of a Byzantine church and a Roman villa. As well as artifacts from the Hellenistic and Islamic eras. As you wander through the park, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the layers of history that have shaped the region.

Entrance is 3 JD, but free for those with the Jordan Pass.

Mount Nebo has immense spiritual and historical significance as its where its believed to be the location where Moses saw a view of the promised land before his death, as well as his potential burial location. This iconic mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and the hills of Jerusalem

Additionally, The Mount Nebo Archaeological Park features excavated remains of a Byzantine church and monastery, which showcase well-preserved mosaic floors depicting biblical scenes and intricate designs.

The entrance fee is 3 JD and is not included in the Jordan pass.

You can either stay in Madaba or drive about 45 minutes to The Dead Sea as they have several beautiful resorts .

✔️ Learn more about a private Jordan tour that includes Mt. Nebo, Kerak, Petra, Wadi Rum, Christ Baptism Site, and Ammman ✔️

Day 7: Dead Sea, Jordan Itinerary

Now that you’ve learned about some of the historical significance of Jordan, head to the Dead Sea on day 7 of your 10-day Jordan itinerary to at least try your hand at floating in its magical and healing waters. If you’re up for the adventure, head to Al Wadi Mujib Adventure Center to try your hand at canyoning the Siq trail.

Be sure to go back to the Jordan 5-day itinerary above to get details on the things to do in and near the Dead Sea, Jordan.

Day 8: As-Salt /Jerash

As-Salt and Jerash are two fascinating cities in Jordan that share several similarities, making them both intriguing destinations to explore when staying in Jordan for 10 days. While each city has its own distinct character and charm, they both offer glimpses into Jordan’s rich history, architectural heritage, and cultural traditions.

Adding As-Salt to your Jordan 10-day itinerary will take you off the beaten path of most tourists, offering you a glimpse into authentic Jordanian life including its vibrant arts and cultural scene and unique architecture.

As-Salt is known for its Ottoman-era architecture as it is dotted with beautifully crafted buildings, intricate façades, and traditional houses that reflect the architectural styles of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Hamman Street is a vibrant and bustling thoroughfare that embodies this beautiful architecture with well-preserved buildings lining both sides of the street.

As you stroll along Hamman Street, take the opportunity to stop at some of the numerous shops, cafes, and local businesses that offer a glimpse into the daily life of As-Salt’s residents.

Similarly, be sure to add the historic Salt Castle, also known as Qala’at As-Salt, to your Jordan itinerary. This magnificent historical landmark is a Crusader fortress that offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Visiting As-Salt provides a unique glimpse into Jordan’s history, local culture, and culinary delights. It’s an opportunity to stroll through charming streets, interact with friendly locals, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere that makes As-Salt such a special destination.

Thinking of staying over in As-Salt? ✔️ Learn about hotel availability and rates ✔️

48 miles north of As-Salt, lies Jerash, an archaeological gem that transports visitors back to the days of the Roman Empire as it’s one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. The city’s extensive ruins showcase an impressive array of well-preserved structures, including towering columns, grand arches, and intricate mosaics.

The main highlights of Jerash include the Oval Plaza, the Temple of Artemis, the Cardo Maximus (the main street), and the breathtaking Hadrian’s Arch. All of which will leave you with a deeper understanding of the Roman Empire’s influence in the region.

If your Jordan itinerary happens to include Jerash during July, be sure to see if you can arrange your 10-day stay in Jordan to align with the Jerash Festival. The festival brings the ancient ruins to life with music, dance, and theatrical performances.

Jerash’s impressive ruins, combined with its lively cultural scene, make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone seeking to delve into the fascinating past of Jordan.

Thinking of staying over in Jerash? ✔️ Learn about hotel availability and rates ✔️

Days 9-10: Amman, Jordan Itinerary

After exploring Jerash, take the short 45-minute drive to Amman, the capital of Jordan. Here you can experience the perfect blend of ancient history at the Amman Citadel and Roman Theater and the modern charm of Rainbow Street and its culinary scene.

During your time in Amman be sure to soak in the Jordanian culture at one of their infamous souks. They offer a vibrant and bustling hub of activity where you can browse through a variety of items, including textiles, spices, handicrafts, jewelry, traditional Jordanian clothing, and more. The market’s authentic atmosphere and the chance to uncover hidden gems make it a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.

Final Thoughts: 3 Epic Jordan Itineraries

No matter if you are spending 5, 7, or 10 days in Jordan, the country offers a plethora of things to do for the history buff, adventurer enthusiast, nature lover, and everyone in between. Include in your Jordan itinerary the popular tourist destinations like Petra, Wadi Rum, and Amman or go off the beaten path and explore Aqaba, Jerash, and As-Salt.

No matter which destinations you choose to explore staying in Jordan, you’re sure to have a good time.

About Author

Hi! I'm Marquita, The Traveling Twin Mama 👋🏽

As a family and solo travel expert, I’ve explored over 40 countries, including all 7 New World Wonders. I've taken more than 50 trips and visited 10 countries with my twins, who embarked on their first flight at just 4 months old. Through my experiences, I empower women to travel the world confidently, whether they're with their family, friends, or on their own.

Sedona Grand Canyon Day Trip 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Get to Tamarindo, Costa Rica: The Ultimate Travel Guide

21 Things to do in Lake Geneva in Winter 2024

Gift Ideas for your Favorite Little Travelers

Cosmopolitan

• +962 6 5353034
• [email protected]​

10 things you need to know before visiting Jordan

Nov 30, 2023 • 7 min read

From staying safe to understanding local etiquette, this guide to Jordan for first-timers will help you plan the perfect trip © Stefan Tomic / Getty Images

A small country that's big on hospitality, ancient history and culture – with numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites – Jordan offers endless opportunities for adventure.

From afar, it’s often unfairly lumped in with regional conflict and, as such, overlooked by wary travelers. But in reality, it’s a welcoming and peaceful destination not to be missed.

Start planning the trip of your life today with our ten top tips for first-time visitors to Jordan.

1. Jordan is a safe place to visit

Despite being located in a region with a history of conflict, Jordan is a friendly oasis that’s open and inviting to visitors. Hospitality reigns supreme, violent crime is extremely rare, and Gallup’s 2022 Law and Order Report ranks Jordan in the top ten for countries where people feel safe walking alone at night.

While you should take the usual precautions you would anywhere – purchase travel and health insurance, don’t carry large sums of cash, and keep valuables locked in a safe – fear should not be a factor when planning a trip to Jordan.

2. Hospitality is a deeply rooted tradition

Don’t let the "Jordanian frown" fool you. Although you may be met with furrowed brows and what appear to be unfriendly faces, you’ll quickly learn just beneath the tough exterior of a resting frown face typically lies a fun-loving attitude and a deeply rooted tradition of hospitality that can be traced back to Bedouin culture.

It’s not uncommon to be invited for tea or even a meal by shopkeepers and strangers you meet. " Ahlan wa sahlan'" (welcome), locals will say. "Where are you from? Welcome to Jordan."

3. When greeting someone, follow their lead

You’ll see people of the same gender greet each other with handshakes, hugs and even multiple air kisses beside each cheek. But if you put your hand out for a shake or lean in for a hug, you may be left hanging.

Out of respect for their religion and spouse, some Muslims will not touch people of a different gender unless they are related by blood. Don’t take it personally – be prepared and open to learning the local traditions.

When meeting someone, you can stand, say hello, smile and then let them take the lead. If they extend a hand or lean in for a hug, you can do the same. If they keep their hands at their sides or put their right hand over their heart rather than reaching out, that’s their way of acknowledging you.

4. It’s not always hot and sunny in Jordan

A common misconception about Jordan is that it’s always hot, dry and sunny. While that may be the case if you visit between May and September, Jordan does have a winter season .

From November to February, the country receives a great deal of cold and cloudy days, rain and even snow, sleet and hail on occasion. Temperatures can hover under 10ºC (50ºF) during the day and drop to freezing in the night (32ºF).

If you’re traveling from mid-October to mid-March, be sure to pack a waterproof jacket and warm layers and monitor the weather. Flash floods are extremely dangerous, and even Petra is known to close during inclement weather.

5. Alcohol is legal, but heavily taxed

If you’re in search of sundowners, you can find alcohol at a number of restaurants, bars and, of course, liquor stores in the larger cities like Amman and Aqaba , as well as Christian towns such as Madaba and Fuheis (where you’ll find Carakale , Jordan’s first and only craft beer microbrewery).

St George and Jordan River also produce their own wine in the country but be prepared to pay a pretty penny for your libations – although legal, alcohol tends to carry hefty taxes.

Bear in mind that Muslim-owned properties and Islamic holidays may affect how readily alcohol is available. For example, it’s illegal to sell alcohol anywhere in the country during Ramadan (with the exception of some high-end hotels), and most camps in Wadi Rum don’t serve alcohol at all (but you can often bring your own).

Call ahead to inquire about availability and any restrictions, and if you do drink, be mindful of your hosts and consume in moderation.

6. Dress respectfully

Jordan is a Muslim-majority country, but Christians, Jews and people of various beliefs also coexist peacefully here. There is no law requiring women to wear hijab, but there is an expectation that visitors dress respectfully – it’s best to avoid low-cut and shoulder-baring tops, short skirts, and shorts.

If you plan to visit a place of worship, both men and women must cover their knees and shoulders, and women are typically expected to cover their hair, chest and neck.

But covering up doesn’t mean dressing down: Jordanians are generally quite image-conscious and well-dressed. Some restaurants even enforce a sophisticated dress code, particularly in Amman .

Keep that in mind when packing and feel free to flaunt your personal style (respectfully) if you’ll be spending time in the capital.

YouTube video player

7. Smoking shisha and cigarettes is common

Alcohol may be in somewhat short supply, but there is argeeleh (shisha) aplenty. For better or worse, smoking shisha is a national pastime, and you’ll find argeeleh cafes across the country. Cigarette smoking is also widely accepted – although it is banned in numerous indoor public spaces, the bans are often ignored by locals.

Travelers who smoke will be in good company, but the smoking culture in Jordan can prove challenging for nonsmokers and those with health conditions. When booking rooms, tours, restaurants and transportation, ask whether non-smoking options are available.

8. Bring a reusable filtration water bottle

Tap water is usually not drinkable in Jordan, though some higher-end hotels have their own water purification systems. Environmental education and recycling facilities are scarce, and you will see plastics and other rubbish littering the otherwise lovely landscapes.

Local businesses and organizations with an eco-aware approach and plastic-free policies like those of Feynan Ecolodge , the Jordan Trail and Eco Hikers are working to teach and inspire locals and visitors with their environmental initiatives.

Travelers to Jordan can be part of the solution by supporting these businesses and carrying their own reusable filtration water bottles (such as GRAYL ) and reusable utensils.

9. Jordan is proof that big things come in small packages

Jordan is smaller than Portugal or the US state of Maine, but within its borders, you’ll find endless adventure possibilities, ancient history and culture, nature reserves, and community-based immersive experiences (such as those provided by Baraka Destinations , Engaging Cultures and Experience Jordan ).

There are also five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the architectural wonders of Petra and the expansive deserts and towering rocks of Wadi Rum.

If you’re eligible for a visa on arrival to Jordan, purchase the Jordan Pass to gain entrance to some of the best sites, castles and museums including Petra, Wadi Rum, the Temple of Hercules in Amman , the Roman ruins at Jerash and Ajloun Castle .

Keep in mind that although Jordan is small in size, the terrain is varied, roads may be rough and traffic can delay your plans. Traveling to sites may take more time than you anticipate, so plan accordingly and try not to schedule every moment of your itinerary. Immerse yourself in the experiences and allow time for the unexpected.

10. You’re going to fall in love with Jordan

Maybe it will be the moment you fall asleep under a blanket of stars or stand in awe of enormous ancient stones. Or perhaps it will hit you when you reach the peak of a mountain and take in the view, far away from the rush of the city.

It might be the laughter and stories you share with your new Bedouin friends. Or the taste of tea brewed with sage and sugar over a campfire. It could be in the fresh mansaf (the Jordanian national dish of lamb, rice and yogurt sauce) made with love by your hosts and eaten with your hands. Or it could be when you hear the muezzin’s call to prayer while watching birds dive and swoop against a sunset sky.

There will be a moment – or more likely, many moments – when the magic of Jordan seeps into your soul. Jordan will welcome you, challenge you and it may very well change you. And you’ll find yourself making plans for your next trip before you even finish your first.

This article was first published Aug 20, 2019 and updated Nov 30, 2023.

Explore related stories

Wildlife & Nature

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

April is the ideal time of year for mild-weather hikes, cherry blossom festivals, fresh produce and more.

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Dec 6, 2023 • 4 min read

Dec 4, 2023 • 9 min read

Nov 29, 2023 • 4 min read

Nov 28, 2023 • 9 min read

Jun 23, 2022 • 6 min read

Dec 23, 2021 • 5 min read

Jul 30, 2020 • 9 min read

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Jordan overall due to the threat of terrorism.

Higher levels apply in some areas. 

Jordan (PDF 719.24 KB)

The Middle East (PDF 1.45 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Jordan overall.

See Safety .

Reconsider your need to travel to the Syrian and Iraqi border regions.

Reconsider your need to travel to the Syrian and Iraqi border regions due to the unstable security situation.

• An increased threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region and ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East. Demonstration and protest activity may occur, and localised security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests.
• This may also result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and flight diversions, and other travel disruptions. 
• Terrorism is a worldwide threat. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds gather. Take official warnings seriously. If there's a security incident, follow the advice of local authorities. 
• Protests occur in Amman and other major cities in Jordan. Most protests are peaceful but could become violent. Avoid protests and public gatherings.
• Security is unstable in Syria and Iraq . Reconsider your need to travel to Jordan's borders with Iraq and Syria, which can be subject to cross-border criminal and politically motivated attacks on security forces and military installations inside Jordan.
• Petty crime includes robbery with violence, bag snatching, theft from hotels and vehicles, and assault. Be alert in tourist areas, especially to pickpocketing, bag snatching and assault by unlicensed guides. Scammers operate in tourist areas. They often target single women. They promise companionship, marriage or offer joint business ideas. Credit card fraud, including card skimming, occurs. Be wary of approaches from friendly strangers. Always keep your card in sight when shopping. Check ATMs for card-skimming devices.
• Women may be verbally, sexually and physically harassed or sexually assaulted. Don't make eye contact with or talk to men you don't know. Don't walk or travel alone, especially after dark. Always ride in the back seat of rideshares or taxis.
• Shooting guns to celebrate is illegal but common. It sometimes causes death and injury. Stay indoors and away from windows if people are celebrating with gunfire.
• Flash flooding occurs across Jordan during the rainy season, which runs from November to March. Valleys (wadis) are most at risk, but recent flooding has closed roads, including major highways. Monitor weather conditions before commencing road travel. Follow the advice of local authorities and avoid flood waters.

Full travel advice: Safety

• There are reports of cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus ( MERS-CoV ). Avoid consuming products contaminated with camel secretions. Wash hands regularly before and after touching animals.
• Waterborne, foodborne, insect-borne and other infectious diseases are prevalent. They include hepatitis, typhoid, measles and sandfly fever. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked foods. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Amman has high-quality private medical services. Outside major cities, health services are basic. Paramedic and ambulance services are basic compared with Australia. You may have to pay up-front. If you're seriously ill or injured, you might need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice: Health

• Many laws in Jordan differ from laws in Australia, including sex outside marriage, photos of embassies, military or security sites and religious activities. Familiarise yourself before you go. Get professional advice for local legal matters. You may be prevented from leaving the country until issues are resolved.
• Don't use or carry illegal drugs – items containing CBD oil are illegal in Jordan. Penalties for drug offences include life imprisonment. You may face jail terms for possessing small amounts of drugs. Serious crimes attract the death penalty. These include terrorism, murder, treason and rape of a minor. Some offences, such as causing personal injury or property damage, are punishable by hard labour.
• Drones are not allowed to be brought into Jordan without prior approval from the Jordanian authorities. Unapproved items will be confiscated and held at the airport. The authorities will provide advice on the collection process.
• Respect the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. During Ramadan, it's illegal to eat, drink and smoke in public during daylight hours.
• Local customs are conservative. Public affection between couples is unacceptable, as are unmarried couples living together or sharing accommodation. Same-sex relations are not socially acceptable. Always get consent before taking photos of people.
• If you're a dual national, authorities will consider you Jordanian. Men aged between 18 and 40 need to register for military service, although you don't have to complete it. If you don't register, authorities may not let you leave the country.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• You'll need a visa to visit Jordan. Multiple visa options are available on the Ministry of Interior webpage , depending on your travel requirements. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice.
• Some land border crossings from Israel into Jordan are scheduled to be opened daily, but crossings may close without notice and for an unknown period of time. You need a visa to enter Jordan. Visas on arrival are available but be prepared for delays when crossing into Jordan. If you're departing Israel to Jordan, check the Jordanian and Israeli government websites to determine if border crossings are open before travel. Be prepared for delays when crossing into Jordan.
• Australians who were previously in Jordan under a refugee status determination, should check with the Jordanian  Public Security Directorate  on whether they can legally re-enter Jordan. 
• There are unexploded weapons and landmines in Jordan's border regions. Known minefields are usually fenced and marked, but warnings may not be obvious. Get local advice in these areas.
• Road rage incidents are common. They can escalate quickly. Road travel in remote desert areas is very risky. Don't drive outside cities at night. If you're in an accident, no matter how minor, stay at the scene until traffic police arrive.
• Flights to and from Jordan may fly over Syria, where ongoing conflict may increase risks to civil aviation. Civil aviation authorities in a number of countries do not allow airlines from those countries to fly in Syrian airspace.  Check with your airline or travel agent for updates and flight options. 

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Amman .
• To stay up to date with local information follow the Australian Embassy Jordan on social media.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, border with israel .

Some land border crossings from Israel into Jordan are scheduled to be opened daily, but crossings may close without notice and for an unknown period of time. You need a visa to enter Jordan. Visas on arrival are available, but be prepared for delays when crossing into Jordan. If you're departing Israel to Jordan, check the Jordanian and Israeli government websites to determine if border crossings are open before travel.

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Demonstrations and protests

Demonstrations and protests are common, including in Amman.

They're triggered by:

• domestic and regional events
• economic issues
• important anniversaries

Most have been peaceful. However, public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Demonstrations often occur after Friday noon prayers but can happen at any time. These often result in road closures.

They're likely to occur:

• near large mosques, government ministries and diplomatic missions
• at major intersections
• in downtown areas of Amman

Demonstrations and protests also occur in regional centres, including:

They can also happen on the major highways between these towns.

To stay safe:

• avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings
• check the media for news of possible unrest
• avoid possible unrest on national days or commemorations
• change your plans if there are disruptions
• follow the advice of local authorities

Contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help if there are disruptions.

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Border regions

Security is unstable in Syria and Iraq .

There's frequent military activity near Jordan's borders with these countries. This includes shelling, gunfire and drone attacks from smugglers and militias in Syria and Iraq.

People have died or been injured on the Jordanian side of the border with Syria. Jordan has deployed extra security forces to the area.

Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather. Jordanian authorities have stopped terrorist plots in recent years.

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals, concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

Foreigners living in Jordan have been targeted at:

• expatriate housing areas and schools
• outdoor events
• be aware while in places known to be possible targets
• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorist threats

People have reported:

• robbery with violence
• bag snatching
• assaults against foreigners in tourist areas, including assaults by unlicensed guides
• bags stolen from hotels and vehicles
• aggressive begging practices by organised criminal groups

Be alert to pickpockets and bag snatchers, especially in tourist areas.

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Scams and fraud

Scammers work in tourist areas. They often target single women. They promise companionship or marriage.

Some scammers offer joint business ideas. Their aim is to take large sums of money from their target. Jordanian laws can make legal action difficult. Scams involving sex outside of marriage may not be investigated by local authorities due to local laws and cultural differences. See  Local laws .

Authorities report credit card fraud. This includes the use of card-skimming machines.

To avoid being scammed:

• keep your credit card in sight during transactions
• check for card-skimming devices before you use an ATM
• be wary of friendly strangers, especially if the person mentions marriage or business ventures

Firearms are more common than in Australia. Criminals sometimes use firearms. Shooting guns to celebrate is illegal but still occurs. It sometimes causes death and injury.

Stay indoors and away from windows if people are celebrating with gunfire.

Female travellers

Women are often subject to harassment. This includes leering, unwanted physical contact and stalking.

Incidents of sexual assault against foreign women are reported. Friendliness can be misinterpreted.

If you're a woman:

• avoid eye contact and talking to men you don't know
• avoid walking or travelling alone, particularly after dark or in lonely places
• always ride in the back seat of rideshares or taxis, especially when travelling alone
• pay attention to your surroundings, and leave if you feel uncomfortable
• report sexual assault incidents to the police

Women travellers

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Tours and safety

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Jordan is in an active earthquake  area.

Rock falls and landslides can occur, especially in valleys.

There can be sand or dust storms, especially in desert areas. Snowstorms can happen at higher elevations, including in Amman.

The rainy season runs from November to March and can cause flash  flood ing . Valleys (wadis) are most at risk. Recent flooding has closed roads, including major highways. Monitor weather conditions before commencing road travel. Follow the advice of local authorities and avoid flood waters.

• In December 2022, an estimated 1,700 tourists were evacuated due to flash floods in Petra
• In October 2018, 21 people died in flash floods around the Dead Sea

If a natural disaster or severe weather  happens:

• keep your passport in a safe place
• closely monitor local media and other sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• stay in contact with friends and family

Travel Insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up   
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of someone you know, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Jordan by contacting the Jordan Food and Drug Administration .   Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Middle east respiratory syndrome coronavirus.

Cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have been reported in:

• Saudi Arabia
• the United Arab Emirates

Other countries have reported cases from returned travellers.

Avoid consuming raw camel milk, undercooked camel meat, or anything contaminated with camel secretions. Wash hands regulars before and after touching animals.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, cough, breathing difficulties or diarrhoea.

MERS information card

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, insect-borne and other infectious diseases are widespread. These include:

• brucellosis
• leishmaniasis (sandfly fever)
• schistosomiasis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products
• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Amman has high-quality private medical services. Outside major cities, Jordan's health services are basic.

Paramedic and ambulance services are basic compared with Australia.

If you need treatment, healthcare providers may ask you to pay upfront. This may happen even if you have travel insurance.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include life in jail.

Penalties for possessing even a small amount of drugs include mandatory jail terms.

Carrying or using drugs

Family and business law

Jordan's family laws are different from Australia's. These include laws about divorce, child custody and child support. 

If you're involved in family and business issues, get professional legal advice. Know your rights and responsibilities under local laws.

If you want to get married in Jordan, check the legal requirements before you travel. Contact the Jordanian Embassy in Canberra for advice.

Criminal law

If you commit a crime, punishments can be harsh by Australian standards. For certain crimes, authorities can sentence you to death though there is currently a moratorium on the death penalty in place in Jordan. These include terrorism, murder, treason and rape of a minor.

You may face hard labour for some offences, such as causing personal injury or property damage.

Authorities may detain you if you do any of the following:

• have consensual sex outside of marriage, particularly with Jordanian nationals, even if in a de-facto relationship or civil union recognised in Australia
• take photos of embassies, military or security sites
• injure a pedestrian while driving a car
• take part in missionary work, preaching or other religious activities that are against local rules
• procure or traffic prohibited drugs

Research local laws before you travel.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

If you're a dual national, you'll be considered Jordanian by law while in Jordan.

The government has stopped compulsory military service. However, all males aged 18 to 40, including dual nationals, still need to register for military service. You need to then postpone your service each year.

If you're eligible and don't register, authorities may stop you from leaving Jordan.

Dual nationals

Local customs

The Islamic fasting month of Ramadan is observed in Jordan. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

It's illegal to eat, drink and smoke in public during daylight hours in Ramadan. If you're not fasting, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in front of people who are.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Other local customs

These activities are not socially acceptable and may offend:

• public affection between couples
• unmarried couples living together or sharing accommodation
• same-sex relationships
• taking photos of people without their consent

Other cultural and social rules can vary between regions of Jordan. Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You need a visa to visit Jordan. 

If you're a tourist, the E-Visa program enables you to apply for a digital visa before arrival. Multiple visa options are available on the  Ministry of Interior webpage , depending on the purpose of your travel. 

You can get a single-entry visa valid for 30 days when you arrive at airports. These visas are also available at the border crossings between Jordan and Israel.

You may wish to purchase a Jordan Pass before arrival. More details are available  here .

You need to arrange a visa in advance if:

• you plan to stay for more than 30 days
• you're going to Jordan to do something other than be a tourist, such as work or study 

Border measures

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy of Jordan for details about visas, currency, customs, entry and quarantine rules.

Jordan’s international airports are open to commercial flights. Land and sea crossings are also open. 

Monitor government announcements and media sources and follow the advice of local authorities.

Other formalities

You must comply with additional rules for travellers if you stay more than one month. You must register with the police. You may also need to have medical and HIV tests.

Under Jordanian law, a husband can prevent his wife and children from leaving Jordan. This is the case even if they're Australian citizens. See Local laws .

You need to pay an exit tax at all border crossings except airports.

In March 2017, the UK government announced restrictions on carrying electronic devices from or through Jordan to the UK.

Some countries in the region may refuse you entry if you've been to Israel. Authorities may stop you from entering if you have entry and exit stamps from border crossings. They may also stop you if your luggage has baggage tags showing you've been to Israel.

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Jordan if you've travelled through or from an area with a risk or transmission. Some airlines may want to see the certificate when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever .

Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 253KB)

Land borders

Land border crossings from Israel into Jordan (Sheikh Hussein, Allenby Bridge, and Aqaba) are scheduled to be opened daily, but crossings may close without notice and for an unknown period of time.  

If you're departing Israel to Jordan, check the Jordanian and Israeli government websites to determine if border crossings are open before travel. 

For details about travel to the West Bank, read the travel advice for Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories .

If you decide to travel to either Syria or Iraq despite our advice, read our travel advisories for Syria and Iraq .

• Israel Ministry of Tourism

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

If you travel with an emergency passport, you may be allowed to transit through Jordan. You must confirm this with your airline or your closest  Embassy of Jordan . Entry into Jordan with an emergency passport will require the approval of the Jordanian authorities. The Australian Embassy is unable to assist with such approvals.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Declare all amounts over JOD10,000 or equivalent on arrival. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

ATMs are available throughout Amman and in other major cities. It's harder to find ATMs in rural areas. Most petrol stations on major roads offer ATMs.

Local travel

There's a danger of unexploded ordnance, including landmines, along Jordan's borders. Known minefields are usually fenced and marked. These warnings may not be obvious.

Reconsider travel to areas near the borders with Syria and Iraq due to the unstable security situation.

Seek local advice if travelling near Jordan's borders. See more information in 'Land borders' above.

Driving permit

To drive in Jordan you need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Driving or riding

Road travel

Road accidents are common.

Roads are dangerous at night. In rural areas, stray livestock and unlit vehicles are common.

Incidents of road rage are also common. They can escalate quickly.

Road travel in remote desert areas is very risky. Isolation, distance from towns and lack of phone service can make it difficult to obtain assistance. Even routine vehicle breakdowns can be dangerous.

• vehicles must carry an extinguisher and a warning triangle
• drivers involved in a motor vehicle accident, no matter how minor, must remain at the scene until traffic police have attended

Call police on 911. You can ask for an English-speaking operator.

If you intend to drive in Jordan:

• learn the local road rules
• make sure your vehicle has all required safety equipment
• avoid driving outside cities after dark
• keep your doors locked when driving
• carry identification documents to show at checkpoints
• stay calm, particularly if faced with 'road rage'
• stay at the scene of an accident unless people threaten your safety

If you travel in remote desert areas, take enough food and water in case your vehicle breaks down. Crime has been known to occur in isolated areas; be careful when speaking to others.

Motorcycles

Avoid using motorbikes. It's dangerous due to poor driving and road standards.

Check with your travel insurer if you're covered to ride a motorcycle.

Always wear a helmet. 

Use only licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing or limousine services. Arrange these through your hotel. 

Avoid taxis that tout for business outside airports, hotels and tourist attractions. They often try to charge high prices. Always insist drivers use the meter.

Authorities report taxi drivers have seriously assaulted lone female passengers. If you're a woman, always sit in the back. 

Public transport

Buses can be crowded. It's worse on holidays and during peak times. Safety standards are not the same as in Australia.

Transport and getting around safely

International cruise ships visit the port of Aqaba on the Red Sea.

Going on a cruise

Flights to and from Jordan may fly over Syria, where ongoing conflict could increase risks to civil aviation. Civil aviation authorities in a number of countries do not allow airlines from those countries to fly in Syrian airspace.  For more information, see  air travel and check with airlines before booking. Flight paths are subject to change. Check with your airline or travel agent for updates and flight options. 

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call 911. You can ask for an English-speaking operator.

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact:

Australian Embassy

41 Kayed Al Armouti Street Abdoun Al Janoubi Amman, Jordan

Phone: +96) 6 580 7000 Email: [email protected] Website: jordan.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australian Embassy in Jordan   X: @AusAmbJO

Opening hours are 8:30am until 4:00pm Sunday to Thursday.

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Jordan?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

• Skip to main navigation
• Skip to sub-navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to site map
• Exchange Visitor Program Information on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Visa Services Operating Status Update (November 19, 2021)

• Camp Counselor
• College and University Student
• Government Visitor
• International Visitor
• Research Scholar
• Secondary School Student
• Short-Term Scholar
• STEM Initiatives

Summer Work Travel

College and University students enrolled full time and pursuing studies at post-secondary accredited academic institutions located outside the United States come to the United States to share their culture and ideas with people of the United States through temporary work and travel opportunities.

Participants

Summer work travel students must be:.

• Sufficiently proficient in English to successfully interact in an English speaking environment;
• Post-secondary school students enrolled in and actively pursuing a degree or other full-time course of study at an accredited classroom based, post-secondary educational institution outside the United States;
• Have successfully completed at least one semester or equivalent of post-secondary academic study; and
• Pre-placed in a job prior to entry unless from a visa waiver country.

The Summer Work Travel program provides foreign students with an opportunity to live and work in the United States during their summer vacation from college or university to experience and to be exposed to the people and way of life in the United States.

More information

Summer work travel 2024 season program dates by country, summer work travel community support groups.

Find SWT community support groups near you

Map of Summer Work Travel Participants

View the number and locations of Summer Work Travel participants across the U.S.

Readmittance, Program Length, and Returning Home

• Readmittance: Participants can be admitted to the program more than once;
• Program Length: The maximum length of the program is four months; and
• Returning Home: Students must return to their home country prior to the start date of their university or college.

Program Exclusions

Sponsors must not place participants:

• In positions that could bring notoriety or disrepute to the Exchange Visitor Program;
• In sales positions that require participants to purchase inventory that they must sell in order to support themselves;
• In domestic help positions in private homes (e.g., child care, elder care, gardener, chauffeur);
• As pedicab or rolling chair drivers or operators;
• As operators or drivers of vehicles or vessels for which drivers’ licenses are required regardless of whether they carry passengers or not;
• In positions related to clinical care that involves patient contact;
• In any position in the adult entertainment industry (including, but not limited to jobs with escort services, adult book/video stores, and strip clubs);
• In positions requiring work hours that fall predominantly between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am;
• In positions declared hazardous to youth by the Secretary of Labor at Subpart E of 29 CFR part 570;
• In positions that require sustained physical contact with other people and/or adherence to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Universal Blood and Body Fluid Precautions guidelines (e.g., body piercing, tattooing, massage, manicure);
• In positions that are substantially commission-based and thus do not guarantee that participants will be paid minimum wage in accordance with federal and state standards;
• In positions involved in gaming and gambling that include direct participation in wagering and/or betting;
• In positions in chemical pest control, warehousing, catalogue/online order distribution centers;
• In positions with traveling fairs or itinerant concessionaires;
• In jobs that do not allow participants to work alongside U.S. citizens and interact regularly with U.S. citizens and to experience U.S. culture during the workday portion of their Summer Work Travel programs;
• With employers that fill non-seasonal or non-temporary job openings with exchange visitors with staggered vacation schedules;
• In positions that require licensing;
• In positions for which there is another specific J visa category (e.g., Camp Counselor, Trainee, Intern);
• Participants must be employees of and paid by the staffing agencies
• Staffing agencies must provide full-time, primary, on-site supervision of the participants
• Staffing agencies must effectively control the work sites, e.g., have hands-on management responsibility for the participants
• After November 1, 2012, in positions in the North American Industry Classification System’s (NAICS) Goods-Producing Industries occupational categories industry sectors 11, 21, 23, 31-33 numbers (set forth at http://www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag_index_naics.htm ).

Sponsors must also:

• Use extra caution when placing students in positions at employers in lines of business that are frequently associated with trafficking persons (e.g., modeling agencies, housekeeping, janitorial services);
• Consider the availability of suitable, affordable housing (e.g., that meets local codes and ordinances) and reliable, affordable, and convenient transportation to and from work when making job placements;
• Actively and immediately assist participants with arranging appropriate housing and transportation, if employers do not provide or arrange housing and/or transportation, or if participants decline employer-provided housing or transportation;
• The number of job placements available with host employers
• That host employers will not displace domestic U.S. workers at worksites where they will place program participants
• That host employers have not experienced layoffs in the past 120 days and do not have workers on lockout or on strike

Sponsors may place participants only in jobs that:

• Are seasonal or temporary;
• Provide opportunities for regular communication and interaction with U.S. citizens and allow participants to experience U.S. culture.

Report Abuse or Exploitation

1-866-283-9090

Summer Work Travel Resources

Events SWT Participant Map Community Support Groups Strengthening and Reforming the SWT Program SWT Monitoring Report

Program Sponsors

Sponsors are required to:.

• A copy of the Department of State Summer Work Travel Program Brochure;
• The Department of State’s toll-free emergency hotline telephone number;
• The sponsor’s 24/7 immediate contact telephone number;
• Information advising participants of their obligation to notify their sponsor when they arrive in the United States and to provide information of any change in jobs or residence; and
• Information concerning any contractual obligations related to participants’ acceptance of paid employment in the United States, if pre-arranged.
• Ensure that participants entering the United States without prearranged employment have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their search for employment;
• Provide such participants with information on how to seek employment and secure lodging in the United States before they depart their home countries; and
• Provide participants with a job directory that includes at least as many job listings as the number of participants in their program who are entering the United States without prearranged employment.
• Sponsors must undertake reasonable efforts to secure suitable employment for participants unable to find jobs on their own after one week;
• Sponsors must inform program participants of Federal Minimum Wage requirements and ensure that, at a minimum, participants are compensated at the prevailing local wage, which must meet the higher of either the applicable state or the Federal minimum wage requirement, including payment for overtime in accordance with state-specific employment; and
• Sponsors must maintain, at a minimum, a monthly schedule of personal contact with the program participants (in-person, by telephone or via-electronic mail), document such contact, and ensure that issues affecting the health, safety and welfare of participants are addressed immediately.

2024 Program Date Chart

2024 Program Date Chart (PDF)

• Summer Work Travel 2024 Season Program Dates by Country (PDF)

Host employers are required to:

• Provide participants the number of hours of paid employment per week as identified on the job offer and agreed to when the sponsor vetted the jobs;
• Pay those participants eligible for overtime worked in accordance with applicable state or federal law;
• Notify sponsors promptly when participants arrive at the work site and begins their programs; when there are any changes or deviations in the job placements during the participants’ programs; when participants are not meeting the requirements of job placements; or when participants leave their position ahead of their planned departure; and
• Contact sponsors immediately in the event of any emergency involving participants or any situation that impacts the health, safety or welfare of participants.

“As an employer of international kids, keep your door open and be proactive in solving their issues.” 

• Facts & Figures
• About J-2 Visa
• Other U.S. Student Visas
• Common Questions
• How to Apply
• Current Participants
• Participant Experiences
• Common Questions for Participants
• Become a Sponsor
• Current Sponsors
• How to Administer a Program
• Common Questions for Program Sponsors
• For Host Families
• For Employers
• For Schools
• Common Questions for Host Families/Employers
• RO-ARO Virtual Training
• SEVIS login
• SEVIS Manual (PDF)
• SEVIS Manuals
• SEVIS Training Videos
• Regulations and Compliance Administration
• Get Adobe Reader
• U.S. Department of State
• Bureau of Educational & Cultural Affairs
• Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
• Privacy Notice
• Copyright Information
• Facebook    Twitter    Instagram    Flickr

The Partying Traveler

Survival of the littest.

The Ultimate 10-Day Jordan Travel Itinerary | 2024

Jordan is one of my favorite countries that I’ve ever been to. My biggest lament is allotting only ten days to explore this beautiful country. While ten days was enough to see the star attractions of Jordan, I could have spent much longer enjoying the amazing food and spending time with the fun-loving and genuinely hospitable Jordanian people. The time I spent here was short, but it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had in any country.

I would recommend visiting Jordan for any traveler. Both beginner backpackers and experienced jet-setters will find something to fall in love with. Whether you’re traveling with friends or going it solo, Jordan is an excellent destination. Despite being in the Middle East, Jordan lacked the chaos and disorganization of its neighbors, making it much easier to travel around. It’s the perfect way to dip your toes into the region without immediately being overwhelmed by the Middle East’s merciless mayhem.

Ten days in Jordan is not a lot of time, so this is a fast-paced itinerary. It is much faster than I typically like to travel. If you have more than ten days, take your time exploring this beautiful country. Spend an extra few days soaking in the immaculate vibes of Amman. Take an extra day to camp underneath the starry skies in Wadi Rum. Visit the northern cities like Irbid, or its historical sites like Um Qais. Visit less-traveled Wadis, like Wadi Mujib. Relax by the Dead Sea for a day, or soak up the sun in Aqaba. Jordan is a small country, and many, like myself, often make the mistake of giving it too little time. A ten day itinerary for Jordan is enough, but it will certainly leave you wanting more.

This post contains affiliate links. That means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links.

And of course, before you go, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance handy.  I use  SafetyWing to keep me covered throughout my travels for as low as $45 a month, and their coverage includes Jordan among the 190+ countries that they cover. It’s handy to have travel insurance in Jordan, especially if you plan on hiking in remote areas, high altitudes, or taking to those crazy roads with crazy drivers.

Starting Point: Amman: 4 Days

Let’s kick off the adventure in Amman, Jordan’s vibrant capital and largest city. It is home to over four million people, although it feels much calmer and relaxed than similarly-sized cities elsewhere in the Middle East. There are many pockets of peace throughout the city, from its quaint suburbs to hilltop neighborhoods. I could have spent weeks kicking back in Amman, enjoying the local and international cuisine, and visiting its many hidden gems. It’s an excellent hub for digital nomads looking for a unique but lively city to work from.

The best way to get into Amman is by catching a flight to Queen Alia International Airport. From there, catch a 3.30 JD local bus to the city, and then a 2 JD maximum Uber ride to your destination. Taxis will run you about 20 JD, which is not too bad if you’re arriving at weird hours or just want to pay for the convenience. Amman is pretty spread out, but the action is concentrated in the downtown area. I’d recommend staying at Cliff Hostel to be in the heart of the action, or Battuta Hostel for a more peaceful and upscale backpacking experience.

Day 1: Explore Amman: Amman Citadel, Roman Theater, Downtown Amman

Welcome to Jordan, or as the locals say, ahlan wa sahlan . Amman is a great city, and a perfect starting point for your adventures in Jordan.

Some of the highlights of Amman include the Amman Citadel and the Roman Theater, both included in the Jordan Pass. The Amman Citadel is an archaeological site nestled on a hill, home to a crumbling ruins and ancient churches. It isn’t a particularly spectacular archaeological site, but the highlight is the stunning panoramic view it gives you of Jordan’s capital and its rolling sea of beige buildings.

From Amman Citadel, hike down the stairs to end up at the Roman Theater. It’s a beautiful and well-preserved Roman Theater in a lively part of town. Climb up the steps for some gorgeous views of the city, especially around sunset. The plaza right outside of the theater is a nice spot for people watching and taking in the energy of Amman. From here, stroll through Amman’s vibrant downtown district, which especially comes to life at night. Amman is a safe city, and the downtown is filled with cafes and restaurants, both local and international.

Grab a knafah from Habibah Sweets and top it off with Arabic ice cream from Bekdash across the street. Find a spot to sit down for mansaf if you’re hungry, or just snack on shawarma and falafel along the way. If you’re feeling fancy, check out Rainbow Street for dinner. It’s a lively street lined with more upscale restaurants, coffee shops, and boutique stores.

Day 2: Day Trip to Jerash and Ajloun

Amman serves as an excellent home base for exploring the nearby sites of north and central Jordan. Rather than move around constantly from city to city, I’d say its best to stay in Amman and either rent a car or hire a driver to take you from place to place. Jordan is a small country, and most of the center and north can be done as day trips from Amman.

The first place I’d recommend visiting would be the archaeological site of Jerash, some of the best Roman ruins I’ve been to. It’s located an hour away from Amman, depending on how bad traffic is. Give yourself between 2-3 hours to explore the site and its many temples, theaters, and well-preserved colonnade.

After Jerash, a potential next stop would be the castle of Ajloun. Ajloun is also home to a forest reserve, although most set tours will take you the castle. The castle is a cool place to visit with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The castle won’t take up too much time, and you can expect to be back in Amman in time for dinner. Feast on some mansaf at the local restaurant of Da7berha.

Day 3: Day Trip to Dead Sea, Mount Nebo, and Madaba

Wake up bright and early for your next day of adventure.

Many hostels and tour agencies offer bundle trips to the Dead Sea, Mount Nebo, and Madaba. Experiencing the Dead Sea is a must, although I didn’t consider Madaba or Mount Nebo to particularly exciting. They have a lot of religious and historical significance, so it might be of interest to those looking to retrace the footsteps of Moses. If neither of these seem appealing to you, just take a day to visit the Dead Sea and relax.

If you’re looking for a jam-packed day, here’s a glimpse of how this triple threat tour went down. In Madaba, we visited the Apostles Church, a small church with ancient mosaics dating back to the 6th century. We followed that up by checking out the Madaba Museum, a tad underwhelming if I do say so myself. Lastly, we hit up an orthodox church with a famous mosaic map. They were cool to see, although if you’re short on time, I don’t necessarily think they are worth going out of the way for.

Mount Nebo was a short but cool stop. This is supposedly where Moses saw the Promised Land before passing away. Having traveled through Egypt, summiting Mount Sinai and crossing the Red Sea along the way, it did feel a bit as if I was following the footsteps of Moses to end up here. I don’t really feel any different having done it, but I guess it’s cool to say I’ve done it. There’s a church at the top with old mosaics, but besides that, there isn’t much to see. The views weren’t spectacular, although one could sea the Dead Sea from the panoramic viewpoint.

Lastly, the Dead Sea! The Dead Sea is a weird experience. There are a couple of public beaches, although our driver took us to a Dead Sea resort. The price included a buffet lunch, and starving as we were, we opted to pay the 15 JD resort fee just to eat. After lunch, we headed down to the Dead Sea where we caked ourselves in mud and took a dip in the lowest point on Earth. It’s a weird feeling, being in a sea so salty that you couldn’t sink no matter how hard you tried. It was great fun, and easily the highlight of the day. Given more time, I could have easily spent a few hours there, although sizzling in the sun with the salty sea providing only minimal refreshment was a struggle.

After a long day, head back up to Amman and go for another big feast or indulge in the street food. A wise man once told me that you haven’t had shawarma until you’ve been to Jordan. I kind of agree with him.

Day 4: Wadi Mujib and Canyoning

Looking for something more outdoorsy and exciting? Head to Wadi Mujib. Of the three Wadis to visit in Jordan, Wadi Mujib often gets the most overlooked. It resembles the Narrows of Zion National Park in Utah, except one can scale the canyons of Wadi Mujib. For adrenaline-seekers, canyoning in Wadi Mujib will be one of the highlights of Jordan.

The early morning start means that you’ll have plenty of time to make your way down to Petra later in the day. From Amman, we head south. If you don’t have your own car, catch the JETT Bus to Wadi Musa. Try to catch a bus in the morning so that you have time to explore Petra on your first day. There isn’t much to do in Wadi Musa to keep you busy otherwise. Of course, if you have more time, take the afternoon to relax and hit up Petra the next day.

Day 5: Bus to Wadi Musa and Exploring Petra

Alright, we’ve just been beating around the bush so far. While I’m sure you’ve been enjoying Jordan thus far, you haven’t seen anything yet. No trip to Jordan is complete without visiting the World Wonder of Petra. Of the World Wonders I’ve been to, I’d say it’s 1b to Machu Picchu’s 1a. It is truly deserving of its designation.

To get to Petra, head to Wadi Musa. Wadi Musa is the small town that extends to just outside of the Petra Visitor Center. The majority of the city is set up to accommodate travelers visiting Petra, so there are no shortage of hotels and hostels. However, there is a shortage of things to do in Wadi Musa. I wouldn’t linger around Wadi Musa, so get to exploring Petra as soon as you can. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Petra .

Tickets to Petra start at 50 JD for one day, or 60 JD for 3 days, with 2 days for 55 JD being the sweet spot.

I’d recommend taking two days to explore Petra. The two day ticket is only $7 more than the one day ticket, and you’ll be able to start exploring as soon as you get to Wadi Musa. Take an early bus from Amman to Wadi Musa and drop your bags off at Nomads Hostel . If you arrive in the early afternoon, you still have plenty of time to explore the site. Here’s my recommend itinerary for exploring Petra in 1.5 days.

Exploring Petra: Day 1

Okay, be patient with me here. I know it’s easy to want to immediately see the highlights of Petra, but with the tourist crowds of the afternoon, I would recommend following this itinerary.

Enter the site and before you reach the Siq (canyon) leading to the Treasury, veer left after the Djinn Blocks to a trail that straddles the outskirts of the canyon. If you have Maps.Me, the trail will be on there. There will be hardly any other people along the way, making it a great way to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the region. The afternoon crowds can dampen the experience, so escaping them immediately lets you get in the right mindset to explore this world wonder.

Follow the trail to the High Point of Sacrifice, giving you a stunning panoramic view of all of Petra. The trail there is stunning, leading you through colorful canyons and dried up riverbeds lined with flowers and lush greenery. Stop for a coffee at the High Point of Sacrifice, and then continue along the trail until you reach the Roman Colonnade. You’ll pass by the ruins of the Great Temple along the way, which only takes a few minutes to explore. From there, follow the signs away from the Colonnade until you reach the Byzantine Church.

Once you’ve wrapped up at the Byzantine Church, go back to the colonnade and walk along the main route towards the Treasury, the iconic structure synonymous with Petra itself. The main route passes by the tombs, ancient theater, and countless other structures built into the mountains of the ancient Nabatean City. We’ll explore those tomorrow. By the time you reach the treasury, there will be loads of tourist crowds, golf carts, camels, and local salesmen. This is why I’d recommend getting up as early as you can the following day. The experience will be much more memorable when there’s no one around.

Head back to your hostel in Wadi Musa. If you’re staying at Nomads Hostel , grab their buffet dinner before heading to their gorgeous rooftop for shisha and drinks. Not too many drinks, though, as you’ll need to be up early the next morning!

Exploring Petra: Day 2

I woke up at 6 AM to get to the Visitor Center right when Petra opened. I’m not joking about it being an early start, but it was so worth it. I was among the first to visit the Treasury. It’s truly a surreal feeling to have a World Wonder all to yourself, and a drastically different setting to what you witnessed the prior day.

Take your time admiring the treasury before continuing along the main route. Walk along the colonnade again and then continue up to the Monastery. It is a steep hike that can take up to an hour depending on your pace, but it will be worth it. This early in the morning, you’ll likely be one of the only tourists at the site. The weather will still be cool enough that the hike up isn’t entirely torturous.

Beautiful, isn’t it? I spent over an hour here just taking it all in and hiking up to various viewpoints of the monastery. I also befriended a handful of animals that probably don’t appreciate how lucky they are to live at a freakin’ World Wonder.

Don’t get too comfortable, though. Our day isn’t over yet! Ready for another hike? Walk back down to the colonnade, continuing to the tombs, highlighted by the Urn Tomb and the Palace Tomb. While not as well-preserved or renovated as the Treasury and Monastery, these are among the most breathtaking structures of the entire archaeological site. One can even enter the buildings, unlike the Treasury and Monastery. There isn’t much to see, but it also serves as a nice respite from the desert sun.

Follow the trail past the Palace Tomb, curling around the canyon. Hike up the stairs, and in about 30 minutes, you’ll reach a cafe with a gorgeous view of the Treasury. Stay as long as you want here. You’ve seen almost all of Petra in two days, and you deserve a coffee or fresh juice with a view. Stare at the crowds beginning to form in front of the treasury and have a laugh at them because you woke up at 6 AM just so you’d be up here and not down there.

Soak it all in. What a day, hey?

Walk back to the entrance and voila, you’ve crossed off one of the most epic World Wonders. Head back to your hostel, have a big dinner, smoke some shisha, have some drinks, whatever. You deserve it all.

Bus to Wadi Rum: 2 Nights

Alright, now you’ve seen one of Jordan’s man-made wonders. How about a natural wonder? From Petra, take the minibus to Wadi Rum Village.

Day 7: Arrive in Wadi Rum, Explore Camp

Most likely, you’ll be arriving in Wadi Rum a bit too late to hop on one of the desert tours that leave in the morning. Take your time getting settled in and go for a walk around your campsite. It’s a breathtaking place for an aimless hike, with gorgeous views no matter where you look.

Once you’ve wrapped up your wander, head back to camp to freshen up and get ready for dinner. Most camps will include dinner, or offer it for a small fee. I paid 5 JD for a buffet-style dinner at Wadi Rum Fire Camp . They offered a huge assortment of salads, rice, vegetables, and then the main course: chicken and vegetables cooked in an underground oven. Oftentimes, your hosts at the camp will also play music, start dancing, or just be hanging around in general for good conversation.

Shisha is also an option, and I partook each night I was in Wadi Rum.

Day 8: Jeep Tour in Wadi Rum

Next up, adventure day! The best thing to do in Wadi Rum if you’re short on time is to go on a Jeep tour through the desert. I paid 50 JD for a 10-hour excursion, and I felt that it was well worth the steep price. It’s a long day, involving a few short hikes to stretch your legs and break up the bumpy rides through the desert. Wadi Rum is a huge place, and if you were hoping to see all of the highlights on foot, think again. I love hiking, and even I’ll admit that it’s too ambitious to take on Wadi Rum on foot.

I tried hiking to an arch on the first day before getting lost and aimlessly wandering about until hitching a ride back to camp. Keep in mind that there is no cell service out here, so unless you have offline maps or trail maps downloaded, then it’s easy to get lost and simply not know where you’re going. A Jeep tour is the best way to see Wadi Rum. It’ll take you to highlights like the red dunes, gorgeous canyons, rock arches, and more. I did mine through my campsite and it also included lunch and dinner, as well as countless tea stops along the way.

It is an adrenaline-inducing adventure in a setting that can only be described as otherworldly. I couldn’t tell you the name of anywhere we visited, so just enjoy the ride. Our tour wrapped up with sunset overlooking the desert, cozied up close to a small bonfire sipping on tea. We began the drive back to camp before having dinner and dancing the night away at the instruction of our Bedouin hosts.

Bus to Aqaba

From Wadi Rum, leave early in the morning to catch a bus to Aqaba. The drive takes about an hour and a half and drops you off right at the main bus station. Hakaia Community Hostel is right across from the bus station, and is the best hostel in Aqaba by a landslide.

Day 9: Explore Aqaba, Beach Day

There isn’t too much to see in Aqaba, but it has a great energy to it. Being along the sea, it is home to stunning beaches and laid-back vibes. Pop over to Al-Ghandour Beach to relax, or visit Aqaba Fort just down the boardwalk. If you dive or snorkel, be sure to take advantage of Aqaba’s reefs. Aqaba is also popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing. For dinner, have a feast at Khubza & Seneya. Order an assortment of small plates to share among everyone and enjoy some of the best food I had in Jordan.

Aside from that, there isn’t too much to fill up your time in Aqaba, but relaxing on the beach is a great way to cap off your adventures through Jordan, and maybe wash off the sand that otherwise will stick with you for life.

Day 10: Bus Back to Amman or Onward Travel To Egypt or Palestine

And that’s a wrap on your adventures in Jordan. From here, one can take the bus back up to Amman to fly out, or continue their journeys through the Middle East. From Aqaba, it’s possible to catch a ferry to Egypt or travel overland to Palestine, or simply stay put because it truly doesn’t get much better than Jordan.

Buy Me A Beer!

If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by  buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

Share this:

Leave a reply cancel reply, discover more from the partying traveler.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

2024 U.S. Election September 23, 2024

Returning your absentee ballot from overseas, notice september 28, 2024, u.s. citizens requesting support in lebanon.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory September 12, 2024

Jordan - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise increased caution in Jordan due to  terrorism . Some areas have increased risk. 

Do not travel to:

• Within 3.5 km of the Jordan-Syria border and east of the town of Ruwayshid in the direction of the Iraq border due to  terrorism and armed conflict.
• Designated Syrian refugee camps in Jordan due to  Government of Jordan restrictions on entry into these camps .
• Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to  terrorism  and  crime.

Reconsider travel to:

• Ma’an City and some areas of Ma’an Governorate due to  terrorism  and  crime .

Country Summary : Terrorist groups continue to plot possible attacks in Jordan. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.  While Jordan itself is relatively stable, due to high tensions in the region, the security environment remains complex and can change quickly.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Jordan.

If you decide to travel to Jordan:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Avoid demonstrations and protests.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  X/Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Jordan.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

The Border with Syria and Iraq – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Jordan's border with Syria and Iraq given the continued threat of cross-border violence, including the risk of terrorist attacks.

All U.S. government personnel must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions for all official travel within 3.5 km of the Jordan-Syria border, and all travel must occur during daylight hours only.  U.S. government personnel must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions for official travel east of the town of Ruwayshid towards the Iraq border, and all travel must occur during daylight hours only.

Personal travel by U.S. government employees to these border areas is not authorized.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Refugee Camps – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Syrian refugee camps in Jordan due to Government of Jordan restrictions on entry into these camps.

All U.S. government personnel on official travel to the four designated Syrian refugee camps listed below (formerly all refugee camps in Jordan) must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions.

• Azraq Syrian Refugee Camp, Azraq, Zarqa
• Za’atari Syrian Refugee Camp, Al Zatryah, Mafraq
• King Abdullah Park Syrian Refugee Camp, Ramtha, Irbid
• Emirati Jordanian Syrian Refugee Camp (Murijep al Fhoud), Al Jadedah, Zarqa

Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these refugee camps is not authorized. 

Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a Neighborhood of Ayn Basha – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Zarqa, Rusayfah and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to terrorism and crime.

All U.S. government personnel on official travel to Zarqa, Rusayfah and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions, and all travel must occur during daylight hours only.  U.S. government personnel may transit through these cities on major highways during daylight hours only.

Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these cities is not authorized.

Ma’an City and some areas of Ma’an Governorate – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel to Ma’an city, all areas of Ma’an Governorate east of Highway 15 (“The Desert Highway”), and all areas of Ma’an Governorate within two kilometers to the west of Highway 15 due to terrorism and crime.

All U.S. government personnel on official travel to these areas must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions.  When traveling at night, U.S. government personnel on official travel must use major highways.  

Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these areas is permitted during daylight hours only, with the exception of direct transit through these areas, which may also occur during hours of darkness.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months.

One page required for entry stamp.

Yes. Jordan issues single entry visas to U.S. citizens upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport and most international land border crossings.

Declaration required if greater than JOD10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy amman.

Al-Umayyaween Street, Abdoun neighborhood, Amman 11118 Jordan Telephone: +(962) (6) 590-6000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(962) (6) 590-6500 Fax: +(962) (6) 592-4102 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

A passport with a validity of at least six months and a visa are required for entry into Jordan. Jordanian immigration officials issue single entry visas to U.S. citizens for a fee upon arrival at Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport, the northern Sheikh Hussein crossing at the Israeli border, the Eilat/Wadi Araba crossing near Aqaba and most other border crossings except the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge.

• The Jordanian visa issued upon arrival currently costs 40 JD (approximately 56 USD) for a single entry with one-month validity. Jordan will also issue a multi-entry five-year visa upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport for 114 JOD (approximately 160 USD).
• Prior to travel, U.S. citizens may apply at a Jordanian Embassy for a dual-entry visa with three months validity for 60 JOD (approximately 85 USD) or a multi-entry visa with 60 months validity for 120 JOD (approximately 170 USD).
• For travelers entering Jordan at the port of Aqaba, visit the  Ministry of Tourism web site  for special information on visas.
• The Jordan Tourism Board also offers a single-fee package called “ The Jordan Pass ” that includes visa costs and entry fees to most tourist sites in Jordan. Tourists much purchase the Jordan Pass in advance from https:// www.jordanpass.jo /.
• Contact the  Embassy of Jordan in Washington, D.C . for current visa information.

Visa Validity:

• Visas upon arrival for U.S. citizens are typically valid for a 30-day stay. Upon request you may obtain a five-year multi-entry visa at Queen Alia International Airport.
• Foreigners who wish to stay longer than the time limit given to them by Jordanian immigration officials upon entry must register at a Jordanian police station before expiration of that time limit. Travelers are generally given a single extension of 60 days.
• Travelers who fail to properly register themselves incur a fine of 1.5 JD (approximately 2 USD) per day beyond their permitted length of stay.
• This fine is usually assessed at departure.
• Travelers are barred from leaving until the fine is paid.

King Hussein/Allenby Bridge:

• Visas are not issued upon arrival at the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge land border crossing.
• U.S. citizens, other than diplomatic or official passport holders, must have a valid Jordanian visa or have a special entry permit from the Jordanian Ministry of Interior to enter Jordan at this crossing.
• U.S. citizens who enter Jordan on a single or multiple entry visa and depart Jordan via the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge may return to Jordan through this crossing without a new visa as long as the visa has not expired.
• An exit fee of 10 JD (approximately 14 USD) is assessed to all visitors departing through the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge, except for diplomats residing in Jordan.

For more information regarding travel to the West Bank and Jerusalem, please see the  country information  for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza,

HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Jordan. Travelers may be denied entry at ports of entry, including land border crossings, if they are known to have HIV. This policy, however, is rarely enforced and Jordanian authorities do not screen for HIV/AIDS at the border. Jordan does not permit residency for foreign nationals with HIV/AIDS. Travelers seeking to extend their stay beyond the initial timeframe are legally required to have an HIV/AIDS test performed at a government medical facility as part of a general medical screening. Those who fail to submit to the test or who test positive for HIV are denied residency and may be deported. For further information, please see the  Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan  website before you travel.

Travelers should check the  Country Information  and  Travel Advisories  for all countries they plan to visit during their travel to the region. Border crossing requirements may change, and borders may be closed during holidays and periods of heightened security. For further information, travelers may contact the  Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan  at 3504 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008, or by telephone at (202) 966-2861 or (202) 966-2664. Jordan also maintains honorary consulates in Detroit, MI, Chicago, IL, and San Francisco, CA. Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The threat of terrorism remains high in Jordan. Transnational and indigenous terrorist groups have demonstrated the capability to plan and implement attacks in Jordan. Violent extremist groups in Syria and Iraq, including the Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS), and al-Qa’ida, directly or indirectly have conducted or supported attacks in Jordan and continue to plot against local security forces, U.S. and Western interests and “soft” targets, such as high-profile public events, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, schools, and malls. Jordan’s prominent role in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS and its shared borders with Iraq and Syria increase the potential for future terrorist incidents.

• Travelers to Jordan should be aware that violent extremist groups have carried out terrorist activities against U.S. and Government of Jordan targets in Jordan.
• Jordanian security services have conducted multiple operations to disrupt terrorist plots and operations.
• In November 2019, a lone terrorist stabbed eight people, including four foreigners, at the Jerash tourist site. The perpetrator was immediately arrested and charged with committing a terrorist act.
•  U.S. government personnel must have permission for official travel on Highway 10 east of the town of Ruwayshid toward the Iraq border, due to Jordanian military activity, known smuggling routes, and a lack of emergency facilities.
• U.S. government employees are not permitted to visit most border areas or any refugee camps on personal travel, and the Embassy advises U.S. citizens to avoid both locations.
• On occasion, the U.S. Embassy temporarily makes other areas within Jordan off limits to its staff based on the security situation. This information will be shared with the U.S. citizen community through our website and through a message to STEP enrollees.

In general, terrorists often do not distinguish between U.S. government personnel and private U.S. citizens. Terrorists may target areas frequented by Westerners, such as tourist sites, hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, liquor stores, shopping malls, transportation hubs, places of worship, expatriate residential areas, and schools. In light of these security concerns, U.S. citizens should maintain a high level of vigilance:

• be aware of your surroundings
• take appropriate steps to increase your security awareness
• be unpredictable in your movements by varying your times and routes
• maintain a low profile
• avoid contact with any suspicious or unfamiliar objects and immediately report the presence of such objects to local authorities

U.S. government personnel overseas have been advised to take the same precautions.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime:  Statistically, petty crime is the most common form of crime that U.S. citizens and other Western nationals experience in Jordan, especially at tourist sites and in crowded areas. Pickpockets, purse snatchers, and opportunistic thieves are known to target foreigners in the narrow and crowded streets of the older parts of Amman’s city center. Travelers should be alert in these areas and in all tourist locations in Jordan. Jordanian police have warned the public to exercise vigilance when leaving banks or ATMs, to reduce likelihood of targeting by thieves.

Thefts of vehicles, assaults, robbery, and attempted residential break-ins have also been reported. Take care not to display valuables in your car or on your person and be sure to lock car doors and windows.

Violent crime does occur, but U.S. citizens or other Westerners are rarely targeted. In the past, the Embassy has received reports of firearms being discharged at vehicles being driven by Westerners. Celebratory gunfire is common, especially during major festivals, sporting events, or the biannual release of high school test scores.

Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods. Not only are the pirated copies illegal in the United States, if you purchase them, you will also be breaking local law. Most DVDs, CDs, and software available for sale in Jordan are pirated.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

In general, demonstrations remain peaceful. However, some have turned violent, even when intended to be peaceful, leading security officials to intervene. Travelers should avoid all protests and large gatherings of people. Many demonstrations occur on Thursday evenings near government buildings and on Fridays near mosques following mid-day prayers. You should exercise special sensitivity and caution when visiting or traveling near mosques and religious sites during holy days and Fridays. Demonstrations and other forms of unrest have occurred on public university campuses in Jordan. Some acts of violence on university campuses have involved the use of firearms. Although generally peaceful, anti-U.S. demonstrations have also taken place in front of the U.S. Embassy.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 911. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact 911 and ask to be put in touch with the Family Protection Directorate, part of the national police, which is staffed 24/7 and has some English-speaking personnel. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. U.S. citizen victims of crime may contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance at (6) 590-6950.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should call 911 and ask to speak to the Family Protection Directorate which is tasked with assisting and investigating issues of domestic violence. U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Flash Flooding:  Certain areas of Jordan, including Petra, the Dead Sea, and other tourist areas, are prone to heavy rain and flash flooding, especially from October-March. Roads and bridges may become impassable and the Jordanian government may close tourist areas completely. The first rains of the season in particular often cause flooding throughout Amman and other cities in Jordan. It is important to watch the weather reports and heed local recommendations. The Jordanian government may send out Arabic language text messages to all cell phones registered in Jordan when inclement weather, such as heavy rain, occurs.

Tribal Violence:  Clashes between feuding tribes, clans, or families periodically erupt without notice and sometimes involve violence, including the use of firearms. In some cases, Jordanian security services are slow to respond or may opt to let the violence subside before intervening.

Syria and Iraq Borders:  U.S. citizens should avoid the border areas with Syria and Iraq. All U.S. government personnel on official travel must receive prior permission to visit any area within 10 km of the Jordan-Syria border, except the tourist site of Umm Qais or the city of Irbid. U.S. government personnel must also have permission for official travel on Highway 10 east of the town of Ruwayshid toward the Iraq border, or for official visits to refugee camps anywhere in Jordan. Personal travel by U.S. government employees to the border areas or refugee camps is not permitted. Police and security officials have arrested weapon and drug smugglers, as well as foreign fighters attempting to enter Syria to fight in the country’s ongoing conflict. In the past, fighting in Syria has occurred close to Syria’s border with Jordan, and some munitions have landed within Jordan’s borders. On June 21, 2016, ISIS conducted a car bombing attack against a Jordanian military facility in the country’s northeast, along the border with Syria, killing seven Jordanian soldiers. The Department of State warns against all travel into Syria and Iraq. Please see the  Travel Advisories  and  Country Information  for Syria and Iraq for further information.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

The Jordanian constitution provides for freedom of speech and of the press with some restrictions. Insulting the King or members of the Royal Family may lead to detainment or imprisonment. Additionally, the Jordanian government considers proselytizing to Muslims (including the distribution of religious material) illegal, and anyone undertaking these activities is subject to prosecution, imprisonment, and deportation. Please see the information below on Islam as the state religion of Jordan.

Jordanian courts may impose criminal penalties, including imprisonment, for alleged infractions that in the United States would be resolved in civil courts. The U.S. Embassy is aware of several cases involving business or financial disputes that resulted in lengthy pre-trial detention and imprisonment under local financial crimes laws.

It is illegal to use, possess and/or distribute drugs, including marijuana and its derivatives, in Jordan. Jordan has strict drug laws and enforces them readily. Drug possession/use is one of the five main offenses that falls under the umbrella of the state security court and is subject to a different set of criminal procedures than other offenses. Accused offenders can be detained for up to two weeks without charges. In addition, after being referred to the state security public prosecutor, the accused offender can be detained for an additional 15 days renewable for further investigation, as long as the extension does not exceed a total of two months. This delay can result in the Embassy not being notified about the detainment because an official arrest has not taken place.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are a U.S citizen and are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Family Circumstances:  The U.S. Embassy is aware of cases where U.S. citizens have been subject to domestic violence and abandonment by their spouses, including incidents of restrictions of movement through travel holds, loss of custody of children or forced marriage. Women and children should pay particular attention to any warning signs, including husbands or other family members withholding money or travel documents after arrival in Jordan. Cases of domestic violence should be reported to the Family Protection Department. Travelers should also be aware that U.S. laws cannot protect U.S. citizens when they are outside of the United States.

Travel Holds:  Under Jordanian law, any adult male may prevent his minor children from leaving Jordan by simply registering a hold on their travel with the Jordanian authorities. Adults may place travel holds on their spouses pursuant to a court order from a Jordanian court. Adult male relatives (uncles, brothers, grandfathers) may also petition Jordanian courts for a travel hold on their unmarried adult female relatives. Immigration officials may prevent minor children traveling with their mothers from departing Jordan without the father’s affirmative consent. This is possible even if the child or woman holds only U.S. nationality. Jordanian authorities consider disputes surrounding travel holds as private family matters, and the Embassy is extremely limited in its ability to intervene. Travel holds may only be removed by the person who placed them or by a court. Please see Jordan’s International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA) page for further information.

Male Military Requirement:  U.S. citizen males who also hold Jordanian citizenship may be subject to laws that impose military service obligations on Jordanians. Jordanian men under age 40 are required to register for service in the Jordanian military. Those subject to registration may be prevented from leaving Jordan until exit permission is obtained from appropriate Jordanian authorities. This permission is often granted to U.S. citizens, but may take some time to obtain and may be limited to a single exit.

Dual Citizenship:  The Government of Jordan considers U.S.-Jordanian dual nationals to be Jordanian citizens. Local authorities typically do not notify the U.S. Embassy of arrests, detentions, or accidents involving dual nationals. For this reason, dual nationals in particular should carry copies of their U.S. passports with them at all times so that evidence of their identity and U.S. citizenship is readily available for local authorities.

For additional information, see our information on  Dual Nationality .

Customs:  Jordanian customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Jordan of items such as drugs, firearms, poisons, chemicals, explosives, pornographic materials, communications equipment, drones and antiquities, among other items. You should contact the  Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan  in Washington, D.C., or one of the Jordanian consulates in the United States, if you seek specific information regarding customs requirements.

Please also refer to our  Customs Information  page for additional information.

Unmanned Aerial Systems (Drones):  Tourists’ use of smaller drones is becoming increasingly popular. However, drones are illegal for personal use in Jordan, and persons seeking to bring any drone into Jordan must first obtain pre-authorization and approval from authorities before entry and use.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Islam is the state religion of Jordan. The Jordanian government generally does not interfere in religious practices. Some religious groups, however, cannot obtain legal recognition of their denominations. On official documents such as birth and wedding certificates, the Government of Jordan only allows affiliation with legally recognized faiths: Islam, certain Christian denominations, and Judaism. Not listing an affiliated faith or listing a faith outside those recognized by the government is generally not permitted. Activities such as proselytizing or encouraging conversion to any faith other than Islam are prohibited. U.S. citizens have been detained, arrested, denied re-entry and/or deported for discussing or trying to engage Jordanians in discussions about religion, even if such discussions also involve other activities, such as humanitarian aid. Jordanian officials may not warn individuals before a detention, arrest, denial of entry or deportation; any warnings received should be taken extremely seriously.

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Jordan. However, laws against adultery or breaches of modesty may be used against LGBTI travelers. Public displays of affection between individuals in general, and especially of the same sex are not considered culturally acceptable. Foreigners exhibiting such behavior or expressing themselves outside of traditional gender norms in terms of dress or appearance may face greater risk of official and societal harassment and/or be targets of violence. Gay and lesbian Jordanians frequently hide their sexuality, even from family members. Family members who discover that a relative is LGBTI may target them for “honor” crimes.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance . While in Jordan, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what is found in the United States .  Outside of a few upscale hotels in the capital, individuals with disabilities will find almost no accessible accommodations. Similarly, there are very few accessible restaurants, shops, or historical sites. Transportation is not accessible and sidewalks and crosswalks, even in the main cities, are not accessible. Handicap-accessible toilets and bathrooms, even in major hospitals, are generally not available. However, at least one local NGO ( accessiblejordan.com ) has created a website which reports accessibility of tourist sites and other locations in Jordan. Travelers who rely on special accessibility requirements or assistance are encouraged to research on-line before planning travel to Jordan.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: Women visiting and residing in Jordan have reported incidents of sexual harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, and assault. The Embassy continues to receive sporadic reports regarding incidents of harassment and sexual assaults involving taxis and taxi drivers. Some have included physical assaults. To reduce the likelihood of being victimized, women should take precautions such as avoiding travel to unfamiliar areas at night, traveling alone, and riding in the front seat of a taxi. Additionally, dress modestly when in public. Carrying a cell phone at all times is recommended. Immediately report any incidents to the Family Protection Department by calling 911. See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Modern medical care and medicines are generally available in Jordan’s main cities but not always in outlying areas. Most acute and chronic medical conditions can be treated. When called, ambulances are often slow to arrive and personnel generally have only a basic level of training. Most hospitals in Jordan, especially in Amman, are privately owned. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment or a high deposit for services.

Seasonal dust storms that envelop the country for days or weeks each spring may significantly aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma or sinus problems.

For emergency services in Jordan, dial  911 .

Ambulance services are not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of  doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health Facilities in General:

• Adequate health facilities are available in Amman but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling.

• Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Jordan.
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Jordan.
• Persons traveling to Jordan for medical purposes require the proper “medical” visa.

Pharmaceuticals:

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:

• Surrogacy is illegal in Jordan.

Water Quality:

• In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

  Air Quality:

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: While in Jordan, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions and driving habits that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Jordan is provided for general reference only and may not be completely accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

U.S. Embassy Amman has advised its employees to avoid driving at night outside the Amman metropolitan area due to road conditions, poorly lighted rural roads, livestock crossings, and erratic behavior by other drivers. 

It is typical for drivers in Jordan not to signal for turns or lane changes. Drivers tend to be aggressive and inattentive to surroundings, and cars operate very closely together on highways. Jordanian roads are particularly treacherous during the rainy season, which runs from October to March. Heavy snowfall can occur in winter months (December to February), making many roads – even major highways – impassable for several days. Driving in Amman also is hazardous in the summer months of June to September when Jordan experiences an influx of visitors from other countries in the region. Highway traffic is heavy around the Muslim holidays when many Jordanian expatriates return to Jordan for family visits.

The Desert Highway outside Aqaba, the Dead Sea Highway from Amman, and the King’s Highway between Petra and Madaba, all popular tourist routes, are dangerous because they are narrow, winding, steep, and crowded with trucks. Try to avoid using these roads at night. When driving in both urban and rural areas, motorists should beware of unmarked speed bumps and livestock, including camels, sheep, and goats. Collisions with livestock are common.

Muwaqqar road (also known as Highway 40) which runs from the Desert Highway east to Al-Azraq city is dangerous due to poor road conditions, poor shoulders, and a high volume of heavy truck traffic. This road is the scene of frequent vehicular accidents, including fatal collisions. This road leads to several popular tourist sites, the “Desert Castles,” but motorists should use this road with caution.    

As a result of these factors, traffic accidents are frequent and continue to be the largest cause of unnatural death in Jordan.

There have been reported attacks on various tourist buses on the highway between Amman and Aqaba, known as the Desert Highway, due to ongoing business or tribal disputes. Attackers, who are believed to be private citizens, throw objects often resulting in broken windshields and interrupted trips.

Licensed drivers must carry local third-party insurance with sufficient coverage for accidents resulting in injury or death. Drivers who are involved in an accident should remain at the scene and immediately call the police and emergency personnel in case injuries have occurred. Police frequently hold the driver’s license or passport in order to prevent the driver from fleeing. Identification documents can be recovered at the police station. It is common for foreign drivers to be blamed for accidents, regardless of the actual circumstances of the incident. Following an accident, the other party may file criminal or civil charges to seek damages. U.S. citizen drivers have occasionally been detained by police as a result. The U.S. Embassy recommends that U.S. citizen drivers in a traffic accident retain  private legal counsel .

Traffic Laws: Drivers must have a valid Jordanian license or a valid foreign license with an International Driving Permit to drive in Jordan. U.S. visitors who intend to drive should obtain an International Driving Permit before travel to Jordan. Temporary visitors may use their valid American driver's licenses only to rent “green” plated rental cars.

• Drivers and passengers are required to wear seatbelts.
• All cars must have a fire extinguisher and warning triangle in the vehicle.
• Child car seats are not required by law.
• Fines for speeding can exceed 140 USD. Speed cameras are installed on many roads in Jordan.
• Talking on a cell phone while driving is prohibited. If stopped by police, drivers may face a fine.

Police may pull over speeding drivers, as well as those believed to be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Public Transportation: Jordan has abundant taxi and ride-share services. Please see the Crime section for more information on sexual harassment and assault involving taxi drivers, as well as safety tips when using public or private transportation. Visitors should make arrangements for taxis via their hotel and request that drivers not pick up additional passengers en route to their destinations. On-call taxi services, such as Uber and Careem, also operate in Jordan. Licensed on-call taxi drivers will have government-issued license sticker on the upper corner of the vehicle windshield on the passenger seat side. Some on-call taxi drivers operate without a license and are subject to possible traffic violations. Mass transportation options, are not recommended and U.S. personnel at Embassy Amman are not authorized to use public buses due to security and safety concerns. Jordanian security authorities often establish checkpoints, especially on roads leading to popular tourist destinations, where drivers are expected to stop and present their identity documents. All drivers should stop when directed to do so and comply with the instructions provided to them by the authorities.

Emergencies should be referred to the Civil Defense Department by dialing 911.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of  Jordan’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities . For information on driving regulations, please contact the  Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan  at 3504 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008, by telephone at (202) 966-2664.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Jordan’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Jordan’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Due to ongoing military activity throughout Syria, the FAA has issued guidance prohibiting U.S. air carriers from flight operations in Syrian airspace, and cautioning those carriers concerning operations in neighboring airspaces. Further information may be found on the FAA's Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Jordan should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Jordan was cited in the State Department’s 2023 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Jordan . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Jordan Tours & Vacations

Modern cities filled with worldly citizens, mountainous regions dotted with small villages, and deserts inhabited by the nomadic Bedouin - Jordan has all this diversity and more.

With the cosmopolitan cafes of Amman , the peace of hilltop Dana and the historic treasures of Madaba, you may come to Jordan to see the ruins of   Petra , but you’ll leave having encountered so much more.

Our Jordan trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Jordan tour reviews

Filter by rating

Premium Jordan

Explore Jordan

Articles of Jordan

Best places to travel in March

How bringing my friend on an Intrepid trip brought us closer together 

I didn’t grow up travelling but now I’m visiting all the landmarks that inspired me

Hiking to the Monastery was the unexpected highlight of my trip to Jordan

This traveller discovers how group travel can help couples connect

Egypt or Jordan? Which country should you travel to?

Why you should consider a trekking trip in Jordan (and what it’s like)

From hummus to hospitality: What to know about visiting Amman, Jordan

Popular destinations

Jordan at a glance, capital city.

Amman (population 960,000)

6.5 million

(GMT+02:00) Amman

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type B (American 3-pin) Type C (European 2-pin) Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin) Type J (Swiss 3-pin)

Learn more about Jordan

Culture and customs.

As a Muslim country, Jordan’s culture is quite conservative, although not as conservative as some other Middle Eastern countries. Western influences (particularly in Amman and other large cities) have infiltrated Jordanian society so Jordan now possesses a mix of Arabian customs amid modern ways of life. Due to immigration, Jordan now has a significant Palestinian and Iraqi population, adding to the cultural diversity of the country.

Despite the outside influences, Islamic traditions are strong in Jordan with spectacular mosques signaling the call to prayer five times a day, Ramadan being observed each year and some segregation of the sexes occurring. 

The desert-dwelling Bedouin have a distinct culture of their own, drawing on traditions that have been passed down for centuries. Living a largely nomadic lifestyle, the Bedouin rely on the herding of animals and the creation of handicrafts in the absence of a fertile environment to farm. With a strong musical heritage, traditional instruments are played and time-honored traditions are continued. 

Hospitality is a crucial element of Jordanian culture. Most visitors will be humbled by the kindness, sincerity and genuine care showed by Jordanians. Being welcomed into peoples’ homes is common, and can probably be attributed to the custom of welcoming strangers and sharing food when traveling in the unforgiving desert.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world.

Featuring typical Middle Eastern ingredients like lamb, chickpeas, garlic and a range of aromatic herbs and spices, Jordanian cuisine is delicious.

Things to try in Jordan

Like many other Middle Eastern countries, a plate of shared breads and dips is a great way to begin a feast.

This traditional Bedouin dish of lamb and yogurt is usually served with rice and bread. This is the national dish of Jordan, so definitely try it before you leave.

These small, sweet pastries made with honey and nuts will have you going back for more.

The coffee in Jordan is strong. Often spiced with a hint of cardamom, coffee is strongly linked to the famed Jordanian hospitality, so drink up – it would be rude not to!

Geography and environment

Jordan is made up of a staggeringly diverse range of natural environments. From stark deserts to towering mountains, fertile wetlands, coastal reefs and urban cities, journeying through Jordan provides changing scenery and varying conditions. 

Sharing borders with Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Syria and Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Jordan mixes modern architecture with heritage-filled buildings, well-manicured streets with historic alleyways and impressive mansions with simple homes. 

Modern, developed cities like Amman and Aqaba feature unique architecture, spectacular mosques, five-star hotels and resorts. Small villages with rustic housing populate the less-built-up rural areas and Bedouin tents made of goat hair can be found in desert areas.

History and government

Early history.

The country now known as Jordan was originally inhabited by the Nabataeans thousands of years ago. Over the centuries, Jordan has been a place conquered and inhabited by many different people including the Romans, Greeks, Assyrians, Ottoman Turks, Egyptians and Mamluks (people of Kurdish origins). All these influences can still be seen today in Jordan's ancient ruins, architecture, crafts and arts. Many battles were fought in Ancient Jordan, including the Christian crusaders who clashed with Islamic Forces in Jordan during the 11th and 12th centuries. The first Muslim Dynasty began with the Umayyad Empire in 661.

Recent history

In 1950, Jordan was renamed the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and in 1951, King Abdullah I was assassinated while visiting a mosque. His eldest son became king but was removed from his duties in 1952 due to mental illness. In 1953, his teenage son Hussein Ibn Talal became king, and continued to rule for over 40 years. In the 1960s, Jordan saw many immigrants arrive and settle – mainly Palestinians escaping the conflict in their homeland.

In 1999, King Abdullah II succeeded his father King Hussein and continues to rule Jordan now. His reign has been characterized by liberal policies, economic reforms and technological advances. His wife, Queen Rania of Jordan, has a visible public profile, is active in many social causes and is regarded internationally as a highly influential woman.

Top 10 ways to experience Jordan

1. locate a lost city.

Spend a day exploring the astonishing lost city of Petra. Discover temples, tombs, a monastery and an amphitheater in this fascinating, world-renowned archaeological site.

2. Take a dip

Dive into the Dead Sea and relax in the famous waters thought to have therapeutic properties. The high salinity makes floating effortless so it’s easy to lie back and enjoy the view. This experience is a must-do for any visitor to Jordan.

3. Kick back in a cafe

The cafes of Amman are the perfect place to get acquainted with modern Jordan. From elegant, urban cafes serving international fare to earthy, family-run cafes offering traditional food and coffee, see both sides of modern Jordan when you eat.

4. Delve into the desert

Travel across hot, desert sands and spend the night camping under the stars with Bedouin hosts. Stargazing, eating traditional food and learning about the Bedouin way of life is an authentic experience to remember.

5. Admire ancient art

The city of Madaba is known for its amazing collection of ancient mosaics. Take a stroll around the city to scout out these handcrafted pieces of the past that are scattered throughout Madaba’s churches, museums and homes.

6. View an icon

Behold the sight of the legendary Mt Nebo. A revered holy site, Mt Nebo is home to the ruins of a church and monastery, and is an interesting place for believers and non-believers alike.

7. Meet Mother Nature

A hike through the changing landscapes of the Dana Nature Reserve offers wildlife encounters, quaint villages and majestic mountain views. Get back to nature and see Jordan’s natural treasures here.

8. Relax in a resort

See a different side of Jordan in the laidback resort town of Aqaba. Chill out on the beach, feast on fresh seafood, soak up the sunshine and enjoy the change of pace in this piece of coastal bliss.

9. Uncover a bit of history

Explore the fortified town and castle of Karak to gain insight into the fascinating history of this region. Walk through a network of tunnels and walkways and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

10. Discover Roman ruins

Travel to Jerash to see some of the biggest and most preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy. Baths, theatres, temples and forums feature within the colonnaded streets and still-standing city walls.

From atmospheric souqs to modern malls and designer boutiques, Jordan has a shopping experience to suit everyone. While not particularly cheap, the quality is generally excellent and the service friendly.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.   T he United States   and   Canada  generally have strict customs laws.

Things to buy in Jordan

1. Traditional handicrafts

Mosaics, ceramics, rugs and carpets can be found everywhere in Jordan, but the variety and quality found in Madaba is a standout.

2. Bedouin crafts

Silver jewelry and embroidered scarves make great souvenirs and can be purchased from souqs and independent vendors around Jordan.

3. Gold jewelry

Traditional souvenirs and stunning gold jewelry can be found in the souqs of downtown Amman.

Festivals and events in Jordan

Ramadan and eid.

During the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is observed by most in Jordan and is thought to be a time of spiritual rejuvenation. For this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset - refraining from eating and drinking during daylight hours. Eid marks the end of fasting with three days of feasting and celebration.

Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts

See the best of local and international performing arts with theatre, music, poetry and dance taking over the ancient Roman city of Jerash, much to the delight of locals and visitors alike.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

• Lailat al Miraj
• Eid al-Fitr
• Independence Day
• Eid al-Adha
• Islamic New Year
• Birth of Prophet Mohammed

Many of  Jordan's public holidays  are religious holidays and are celebrated according to the Islamic lunar cycle. Please note the dates may vary.

Top places to visit in Jordan

If you think you’ve been to Rome and seen some impressive ruins, you’ll be amazed by the sights at the ancient city of Jerash. One of the biggest and most well-preserved ancient Roman cities in the world, it has a striking collection of archways and theatres, baths, public buildings and colonnaded streets.

This seaside town is the perfect place to kick back and relax by the hotel pool or at the beach. Located on the tip of the Red Sea, there are untouched coral reefs not far from the shore ready to be explored.

3. Wadi Rum

When you first enter Wadi Rum you may feel as though you’ve been transported to Mars. The red desert landscape is peppered with towering rock formations as far as the eye can see. Don’t miss an opportunity to mingle with the nomadic Bedouin people and perhaps even spend the night in one of their Desert Camps.

The ancient city of Petra was crowned one of the Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, and once you visit, it’s not hard to see why. Packed with history and culture, a visit to this UNESCO world heritage site is a must.

Further reading

Jordan travel faqs, do you need a visa for jordan.

Visas are required by all visitors entering Jordan.

Single entry visas valid for 14 days and can be obtained by most nationalities on arrival at the airport in Amman or at the Jordanian border for approximately JOD40.

It can be significantly more expensive to acquire your visa from the embassy in your home country.

If you require a stay longer than 14 days, visas obtained from the embassy in your home country will be valid for two months.

When is the best time to visit Jordan?

The weather in Jordan can get quite extreme. Overall, it tends to be hot during the day and cold at night (in desert areas, expect it to be extremely hot during the day and freezing at night). Yet during winter it can get bitterly cold, with snowfall occurring in some parts of the country.

Traveling during the summer months (June, July and August) can be challenging for those not accustomed to the heat, so visiting Jordan during spring and autumn is recommended for those who wish to escape the hotter temperatures. 

Is tipping customary in Jordan?

Tipping is up to the individual in Jordan. Hotels and up-market restaurants typically add a surcharge that is included in bills, which is usually 10%. Rounding up bills and leaving spare change is a good idea when dining in smaller restaurants and when using taxis.

What is the internet access like in Jordan?

Internet access is growing rapidly in Jordan. Internet can usually be accessed from hotels and internet cafes in major cities. Expect little to no access in small towns, villages and other rural areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Jordan?

Cell phone coverage is good in Jordan’s major cities and built-up areas like Amman and Aqaba. Expect limited to no phone coverage in more isolated areas like the desert. Ensure you have global roaming activated on your phone before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Jordan?

Western-style toilets are common in modern hotels, malls and at popular tourist areas. Squat toilets are the standard throughout the rest of the country. Sometimes, you may need to pay and bring your own toilet paper when visiting public rest rooms.

Can I drink the water in Jordan?

Drinking water from taps in Jordan can be safe, depending on where you are. It's considered safe to drink water from modern hotels that have filtered water but perhaps not so from smaller establishments and in rural areas. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Peel fruit before eating and avoid ice in drinks.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Jordan?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores in Jordan. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Jordan?

ATMs are common in Jordan’s main cities so finding one won't be a problem. Rural and remote areas typically will have less ATMs so be sure to carry enough cash for purchases when away from the city.

Is Jordan LGBTQIA+ friendly?

As a Muslim country, Jordan’s culture is quite conservative, although not as conservative as some other Middle Eastern countries. Homosexuality has been decriminalized in Jordan since 1951, and while Jordanians who identify as having an LGBTQIA+ identity will not be criminalized, many people continue to hide their sexuality or identity from their families, and there is still a deep social stigma. As long as LGBTQIA+ travelers display some discretion and respect for local culture, particularly when visiting places outside of the major cities and tourist areas, they will have no problem visiting Jordan. 

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What's the transport like in Jordan?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Jordan, you may find yourself traveling by 4x4.

Head out for a day of dune-bashing in a 4x4. Scale the towering desert dunes and take in the sweeping views. A fun way to explore remote parts of Jordan.

What's the accommodation like in Jordan?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Jordan you may find yourself staying in a desert camp.

Be welcomed by Bedouin for a night of camping under the stars. Enjoy traditional food and music then fall asleep in the supreme silence of the desert.

What to wear in Jordan?

Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country and conservative clothing is the norm for all genders. You don't need to cover yourself from head to toe, but you should wear clothing that covers your chest, shoulders and legs from the knee up. Honoring the local dress code shows respect for the local culture and customs.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Feedback Survey

Overall, how satisfied are you with this Home page?

How satisfied are you with the information provided?

Overall, how helpful is this page for planning your remote work trip?

What, if anything, do you dislike about this page?

What, if anything, do you like about this page?

• How It Works
• Marketplace

Work from anywhere, explore everywhere

A travel club for global remote workers.

We make it easy for you to see the world while you work

Join professionals across 20+ destinations while you work, travel, and build a global community. Remote Year handles accommodations, workspaces, and experiences, so you can focus on your job. Choose flexible monthly trips or a transformative 12-month journey. Embrace remote work without sacrificing community.

What does Remote Year offer?

Built-in Community

Diverse community from all backgrounds and professions

Curated Local Experiences

Mix of informative, social, and cultural events in every city

Accommodation Options

Centrally located, apartment or hotel-style accommodations

Reliable Workspaces

24/7 access to centrally located workspaces & strong Wi-Fi

Explore Our Trip Types

Discover interesting cities for a month with a group of people working remotely from anywhere

Not work-friendly

RY Adventures

Unplug from work and dive into shorter adventures, epic occasions and inspiring destinations

MOST POPULAR

12 countries

The Original Remote Year

Embark on a life-changing 12-month world trip across 3-4 continents with the same group from start to finish

4 countries

Regional Immersion

Dive deeper into a region and live in 4 destinations over 4 months with the same group of explorers

Hear what our community has to say

Over 7,000 Travelers & “Excellent” 4.8 Trustpilot Rating

Most Growth You’ll Experience

RY = 10 years of adventure and personal growth. What I learned has fundamentally reshaped my world view. By highlighting my own and other diverse perspectives, I hope more people see themselves as capable of international travel.

No Typical 9-5 Here

RY took my entire life and turned it upside-down in the best way. There’s no such thing as a “typical 9-to-5” here. Every day, I learned more about the world and people. If I could rewind and relive it again, I’d do it in a heartbeat.

Wouldn’t Change A Thing

5 continents, 14 countries, 38 cities & 24 planes later, I'm still giving thanks to the man above! I've met amazing people, tried countless foods, and learned so much about myself. Nothing quite describes what this year meant. I wouldn't change a thing and would spend every dime the same.

It’s The People

Remote Year is an amazing work travel company with a wonderful community. Having done multiple RY programs I'm continually impressed by the care and helpfulness of the staff that I interact with on a daily basis. The Remote Year community of people make every bit of the experience.

Challenge Yourself

I've done 3 RY Trips. Each one has gifted me memories, friendships, family, culture lessons, and confidence. You start as a solo traveler, but leave as part of a family. Challenge yourself and experience what you don’t know. RY has given me those chances & it’s been incredible.

Something for Everyone

Remote Year’s magic lies in its ability to simplify travel. Precise planning and thoughtful curation let me immerse myself, free from logistical stress. Whether you’re a thrill seeker, nature lover, history buff, foodie, or adventurer, they cater to all.

As featured in:

Our 20+ Destinations

Have more questions, what are you waiting for, "the type of people who choose to do this trip are diverse but share a love of adventure and a positive mindset. this is the perfect way to travel solo but still be connected to a community of people who quickly become friends.".

Tara A. • 12 month Trip Participant

Keep me updated

95,496 + dreams turned into reality

Be more than a tourist️. ™

Discover & join Join the best real-world travel experiences.

Work Overseas

Get paid to travel & stay for longer.

The world's best work & travel trips.

Explore by interest.

Explore a new country and become a local, whilst getting paid with a seasonal job.

See another side of the world as you travel with a purpose, and leave a lasting impact.

Join an international host family and care for children, with living expenses covered.

Get internationally accredited, teach English at a local school, fund your travels further.

Join an international firm, gain leading real-world experience, then watch future doors open.

Have the best summer of your life, shaping young lives and exploring the world whilst at it.

Mentor children of an international family and explore in your free time.

Bring your own job, work remotely, join a community, and travel the world.

Trending trips from Australia

Secure a job before you arrive & fund epic summer adventures. Dive into lakeside parties or world-famous festivals - it’s all waiting for you.

☀️ Live the 2025 Summer Dream in Canada or Europe! ☀️ Live the 2025 Summer Dream in Canada or Europe!

Popular destinations, gworld - your very first travel buddy.

Stay organised for your upcoming adventure. Plan your trip, access deals from the marketplace, learn a new language and even make friends on the same trip as you! All from the palm of your hands.

International Travel & Medical Insurance

Designed by & for young people exploring the world, get Global Travel Cover for easy peace of mind. Buy & renew from abroad too!

Get inspired

A day of travelling will bring a basketful of learning. abeny b., a turtle-ific month in costa rica alyssa a., taylor's working holiday adventure, introducing..., the superlite app.

Jordan tourism to hit new record in 2023

ALBAWABA – Jordan is set to receive a record-breaking number of tourists in 2023, thanks to new partnerships with low-cost airlines, programs and vigorous marketing, according to the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB).

New programs were designed to introduce new experiences and expand Jordan’s appeal to a broader clientele, the JTB statement said, as carried by Zawya.

More so, the Jordan Tourism Board signed agreements with various budget carriers, including EasyJet, RyanAir, WizzAir, Transavia and Vueling. 

These airlines are set to launch new routes to Jordan's capital, Amman, and the seaside city of Aqaba, broadening accessibility from destinations across Europe, Director General of the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB), Abdul Razzaq Arabiyat, told The Jordan Times in a recent exclusive interview.

“We will announce more details within two weeks. [But] The flights from the new European destinations are set to commence in October,” he said. 

Increasing flights is part of the JTB’s strategy to attract a diverse range of tourists, Arabiyat explained.

It is projected to play a significant role in exceeding Jordan’s 2019 record.

In 2022, low-cost carriers brought in 355,000 visitors, only 15 percent of whom were Jordanian. Since the beginning of the year to date, Jordanians represented 12 percent of all passengers arriving in Jordan on these flights.

“2023 is a promising year,” the Jordan Tourism Board official said.

Jordan is promised to reap the fruits of last year’s aggressive marketing campaigns spanning all of Europe, from Spain through Hungary, Romania and central Europe.

“The Jordan Tourism Board gave more incentives to eliminate the seasonality of the tourism season in Jordan, and succeeded in working with European tour operators to promote Jordan as a standalone destination, and also increased the number of overnight visitors,” Arabiyat added.

JTB is championing sustainable tourism, eco-tourism and agri-tourism, leveraging Jordan’s varied natural landscape.

“Working in conjunction with the Ministry of Tourism, the JTB is curating a collection of local experiences for tourists. These range from the historical sites of Um Qais in the north to the iconic locations of Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea in the south. But, the JTB is also focusing on local experiences across the country,” the official added.

The JTB is also working with travel companies such as Expedia, KAYAK, Tripadviso and others to promote content that is focused on local experiences.

“We are working with the Ministry of Tourism to identify 800 local experiences across Jordan. Currently there are between 50 and 60 well-established local experience programmes, and we have started the promotion,” he explained.

“We are also working on educational tourism,” he added, explaining that the JTB is also promoting Jordan as a hub for non-Arabic speakers to study the language.

The JTB’s marketing strategy currently extends beyond Europe, with focus now on Asia.

“We will take part in several roadshows in Asia soon. From now on, we will increase our focus on Asian markets, including Japan, Australia, China, South Korea, Taiwan and India. We will be working with several airlines such as Royal Jordanian [RJ] and others that reach destinations where RJ does not, including Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad and others,” he added.

When it comes to religious tourism, the JTB has “a comprehensive plan” in place, Arabiyat told The Jordan Times.

One such experience is the “Umra Plus” initiative, targeting Malaysia and Indonesia.

“This package offers a unique religious journey, starting with performing Umra, followed by a visit to Jordan to the Prophet’s companions’ shrines in the Kingdom, concluding with prayer at Al Aqsa Mosque,” he said.

The official added that another major event that is expected to boost religious tourism is a conference by the heads of Christian pilgrimage entities from France, set to take place in Jordan for the first time in November.

To accommodate the projected influx of tourists, the JTB has highlighted the need for more lodging facilities, specifically in popular areas like Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba, and the Dead Sea. 

There is also a dire need for homestays in Irbid, Jerash and Ajloun to cater to adventure tourists, he said.

“We also have a shortage in human resources available to work in the sector. We will work with tourism entities and universities to encourage students to join the hospitality sector. This means we need to increase training and capacity-building programmes,” he added. 

Local demand for sector-specific talent is on the rise, with new hotels being built, amidst a brain drain of workers migrating to Gulf markets, Zawya reported.

The Jordan Tourism Board official stressed the need to maintain the board’s budget, taking into account the need for continued expansion.

“We need the budget to remain as is, with a ten per cent increase each year to be able to continue to achieve our targets...we need to sustain the budget, and ensure sustained planning,” Arabiyat said.

© 2000 - 2024 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)

Turkish airlines offering “The Oldest Bread” to elevate in-flight dining

Boeing workers pressured to sacrifice quality for speed, FAA says

Israeli army intensifies airstrikes on Lebanon; Hezbollah strikes Israel’s northern intelligence HQ

Sydney Sweeney begged SNL writers to joke about her boobs during controversial hosting debut

Hezbollah attacks Israeli "Samson" base with suicide drones, fires 80 rockets towards Upper Galilee

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Fitness & Wellbeing
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance Deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Climate 100
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Wine Offers
• Betting Sites

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Jordan travel: Is it safe to travel right now, and what are your rights if you have a trip booked?

The middle eastern country shares its northern border with israel and syria, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts

Get simon calder’s travel email.

Amid escalating conflict in the Middle East and military activity in the Red Sea , concerns over the safety of travel to and from countries in the surrounding region of Israel, Gaza and Lebanon have risen.

Although the Foreign Office considers most of Jordan generally safe to travel to – bar the area up to 3km from its northern border with Syria – travel guidance has been updated to reflect ongoing events.

After tensions spilt into the Red Sea last October, cruise itineraries to Aqaba were cancelled in the first blow to holidaymakers visiting the country.

Jordan, a popular winter sun destination for tourists, shares its northern border with both Israel and Syria, and travellers with trips booked may be questioning whether to book a holiday there.

Here’s the latest travel advice for  Jordan , plus all the key questions and answers.

What does the Foreign Office say?

As of 25 September, Foreign Office (FCDO) advice for Jordan states: “FCDO advises against all travel to within 3km of the border with Syria.”

Its guidance notes that the situation in Syria is “fragile” and “security threats in the form of instability or terrorist activity could arise with little or no notice”, advising against all travel to Syria.

Travellers are warned to “be particularly cautious” in areas close to the Jordanian borders with Iraq and Israel.

Recent protests in Amman about the Gaza conflict near the Israeli and US embassies and downtown may also “heighten anti-western sentiment”, say the FCDO.

Land crossings with Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories “may be restricted or close at short notice due to the conflict” and tourists are told to “remain vigilant” to terrorism threats at all times.

What is happening in the Red Sea?

Since the military response to Houthi militants’ attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea, travel advice for Jordan could change at short notice, says the Foreign Office.

Aqaba, Jordan’s only seaport, sits on the Gulf of Aqaba at the tip of the Red Sea. Cruise holidays due to dock in Jordan were diverted or cancelled due to the Red Sea crisis and neighbouring conflict in January.

According to cruisetimetables.com , the next expected call at Aqaba by any cruise ship is 16 October 2025. Tui’s German cruise operation is expected to make the call as part of a voyage from Antalya in Turkey to Dubai .

What do the Jordan authorities say?

The Jordan Tourism Board previously said in a statement: “In light of the recent developments in Gaza, we want to emphasise that Jordan continues to be a safe and welcoming destination for tourists from around the world.

“Our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all visitors remains unwavering. We want to reassure everyone that Jordan’s borders are open to tourists, and we are eager to share our extraordinary experiences with the world.

“We understand that tensions around the world can raise concerns, but we believe in the power of travel to foster understanding and build bridges between nations.

“As always, the Jordan Tourism Board is here to assist and support tourists in making the most of their visit.”

Are Jordan flights continuing?

The main airlines that fly from the UK to Jordan include British Airways, easyJet, Tui and Wizz Air out of London Heathrow, London Gatwick and London Luton. Since 6 March, Royal Jordanian has also departed London Stansted and Manchester for Amman.

In 2021, Jordan and Israel reached a historic agreement to open up the Jordan-Israel air corridor and allow flights that previously flew around Israel to cross over into each country’s airspace, cutting flight times from the West.

Wizz Air has suspended all its flights to and from Israel and Jordan “due to the escalating situation in the region”.

To Amman in Jordan, Austrian Airlines and United have cancelled flights from Vienna and Washington DC respectively.

Royal Jordanian and British Airways are continuing to fly to and from London.

Currently, Queen Alia International Airport, south of Amman remains operational with flights cancelled to the Lebanese capital, Beirut.

Leading leisure airport King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba, Jordan’s southernmost point has very few flights – mainly on Royal Jordanian from Amman.

What if I have booked a package holiday to Jordan?

Travellers who have booked package holidays to Jordan’s “no go” zone as advised by the FCDO can cancel without penalty for a full refund, although the main tourist spots – Amman, Petra and Wadi Rum – are a fair distance from here anyway.

Outside of the 3km radius between Jordan’s northern border and Syria, the conditions for cancelling your trip will be dependent on your holiday provider, so it’s best to contact them if you’re looking to postpone. There is no obligation for companies to refund bookings if you want to cancel, and you will not be able to claim on travel insurance due to safety concerns unless FCDO advice changes.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calder’s podcast

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Halle Bailey Wants You to Take a Vacation This Year

Halle Bailey knows how hard it can be to make those group chat travel dreams a reality . You know the ones: those constant back-and-forths with friends or family about a vacation you've all been saying you want to take for forever, but life keeps getting in the way. While there's lots to savor about the trip-planning process , there comes a time when you just have to take the leap and go.

Bailey's extended family was recently texting about a group trip to Mexico, she tells PS. Everyone was excited about it, but no one would take the first step. "It happens so much with my family because we're all over the place, we're all working, we all have different schedules," she says. It took a while, but finally her brother-in-law dropped his ticket in the chat — causing a chain reaction. "Sometimes, someone just needs to kickstart it," she says.

While that Mexico trip was pure vacation, 24-year-old Bailey has been traveling for work since she was a kid — and at 16, she and her sister Chloe joined Beyoncé on the "Formation" World Tour. Since then, the singer-turned-actress has more than made a name for herself in Hollywood, starring as Ariel in the 2023 live-action remake of "The Little Mermaid."

This year, Bailey gave birth to her first child, Halo. And while motherhood has changed a lot of things in her life, her passion for travel remains the same — except now, she needs to make sure she's always got space in her luggage for baby soap and hand wipes.

Ahead of the launch of her partnership with Marriott Bonvoy and the new Bold Credit Card from Chase , Bailey sat down with PS to talk about her favorite travel moments, travel tips for vegans, how to take international trips with a baby, and the new travel memories she hopes to make this year and beyond.

PS: What was it like being on tour with your sister in 2016? Halle Bailey: I have so many childhood memories of my whole family traveling together, but especially my sister and I performing so young on the "Formation" Tour. We went all over Europe, which was so special to us. It was our first time being on a tour bus and having our own bunks, and still doing school on the road. I remember thinking how cool that was.

PS: What are some of your favorite travel memories from being on tour with your sister? HB: One of the fun parts about discovering a new place was trying all the new foods. Chloe and I were both vegan at the time, and I remember we were really surprised at the vegan options in Amsterdam . I'm not vegan anymore, I'm all over the place diet-wise after pregnancy. I eat what I want now, but I still love eating vegan.

PS: Was it stressful trying to find good vegan options while on the road? HB: No, it was actually cool. We went to these little hole-in-the-wall places that you would never think to go. We used the HappyCow app that would tell us all the cool vegan spots wherever we were. It honestly wasn't stressful, it made it kind of more fun.

PS: How did you keep each other entertained while you traveled? HB: Reality TV was our guilty pleasure . We watched a lot.

PS: You recently went to Italy with your baby, Halo. How did he do? HB: He's such a good flier, he's been flying around very, very, very early because of the nature of my work. He's now used to being on airplanes and he just loves looking out the window.

PS: What tips do you have for new moms traveling with their babies? HB: I always bring my melatonin and ashwagandha gummies to make sure I'm getting my rest. I always bring my own hand wipes because I'm a germaphobe, and I have to make sure everything is clean on the plane [for me and the baby]. That was always a priority with my mom who wiped down everything when I was a kid. And now with my own baby I do the same thing.

When you have a baby it's about planning, organizing everything, making sure you don't forget anything. It's easy to forget something as simple as, like, baby soap, but that's so important. Planning out and organizing helps with little things like that. And my partner and I do a pretty good job of splitting that up.

PS: Will Halo be traveling with you again soon? HB: I bring him everywhere with me now. It's my greatest joy to be able to see the world through his eyes, especially when he sees stuff for the first time.

If you could drop everything right now and go to one place in the world where would it be and why? HB: Back to the Maldives. I've been there once, four years ago, and it was my favorite place ever to visit. It's like an alien planet, nobody was on it, it was so beautiful, and it was the best scuba diving experience I've ever had.

PS: Oh, so fun! When did you get scuba certified? HB: I got certified around the time of [filming "The Little Mermaid"]. It ignited this passion for diving for me, doing that whole film.

PS: I can imagine! So on a trip like that, how do you generally balance your time between business and pleasure? HB: That trip was just vacation. It's definitely a priority to have those moments of zen and relaxation when I'm traveling for pleasure, because when I'm working all the time it's like go, go, go. I prioritize special trips like St. Lucia or the Maldives where I'm strictly going to relax and sleep. It's so essential to get that time. I'm really good at shutting off.

PS: What advice do you have for someone who struggles to "shut off" while they travel? HB: Give yourself breaks. That's a theme I'm giving to myself a lot these days. We sometimes overwhelm ourselves with so much in our brain, all the things we have to do, that we don't stop to just breathe for a sec. You are allowed to just chill.

Emma Glassman-Hughes is the associate editor at PS Balance. Before joining PS, her freelance and staff reporting roles spanned the lifestyle spectrum; she covered arts and culture for The Boston Globe, sex and relationships for Cosmopolitan, travel for Here Magazine, and food, climate, and agriculture for Ambrook Research.

• Chloe X Halle
• Halle Bailey
• Celebrity Interviews

Work Wives: Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon Unpack ‘Morning Show’ Twists, Space Travel and Messy Romances

Photographs by Dan Doperalski

“We knew this season was different.”

That’s how “ The Morning Show ” star and executive producer Reese Witherspoon begins Variety ’s conversation about the third season of the Apple TV+ series. Co-star (and fellow executive producer) Jennifer Aniston adds, “It had a different shape to it.”

Related Stories

Generative AI Fueling ‘Exponential’ Rise in Celebrity NIL Rip-Offs: Exclusive Data

Disney Seeking $940 Million From India’s Zee Over Failed Cricket Rights Deal

Popular on variety.

At the beginning of each season, do you know everything that’s to come for your characters? Specifically, Reese, did you know the insurrection plot that would be the linchpin of your character Bradley’s arc?

Reese Witherspoon: I knew I had this secret that was going to get revealed by the end. When Charlotte Stoudt came in — this is her first season at “The Morning Show” — she pitched out the whole thing: the hack; Paul Marks coming in to take over; Alex [played by Aniston] wanting a position of power on the board; my character hiding this Jan. 6 secret. Jennifer Aniston: It’s such a collaboration, and we are able to say if we felt like it wasn’t going in a great direction. That’s the fun of what we do together, having that open line of communication.

How did you react when you heard that the premiere would include a trip to space?

Aniston: Wow. Going into space, huh ? Personally, I was like, “I would never do that! You’ve got to be out of your freaking mind!” Witherspoon: I would never do that either!

It appeared to fans that you were in far fewer scenes together this season. Reading your faces, is that not how it seemed to you?

You’ve worked together a long time. How would you describe your working and personal relationship?

Aniston : We’ve been in each other’s lives for 20-something years. It’s just in our DNA that we are collaborators. We’re partners. We’re friends. We’re girlfriends, we share all sorts of heartbreaks in life and love and everything. Witherspoon : There’s a comfort to that. It’s just mutual respect and years of experience. And I think we’re both incredulous that we’re both still kicking around! That we’re still working at this level is such a privilege. It’s an honor to get to contribute to something that’s really speaking about the world we live in nowadays. Aniston : That’s what we wanted to do: Make a show that said something and to show the conversations that happen behind closed doors.

Bradley’s life ended in shambles — Laura has broken up with her, she’s turned herself in to the FBI for concealing evidence that her brother was a Jan. 6 insurrectionist.

Witherspoon: She’s made a mess of her life! Everyone keeps asking me, “Does she go to jail?” We don’t know anything!

There were nearly two full years between Seasons 2 and 3. Will there be a big time jump in Season 4?

Witherspoon: I think so, just because it takes us so long. They write for so long, and have brand new storylines that are happening. I think we’re a little behind in time, too. Aniston: And our show tends to mirror what is actually happening in the world. Witherspoon: Yeah, so as things come up while they’re writing, they’ll put them into the story.

Is there a discussion of adding the Israel-Hamas war next season ?

Witherspoon: It has not come up.

OK. Given that Bradley is likely going to prison, could she be on air again?

Witherspoon: From prison? 

Well, I was thinking after!

Witherspoon: It’s far-fetched, but in this day and age, honestly, nothing surprises me anymore — except murder.

Let’s talk about Alex and Paul. They had a passionate and, dare I say, sweet romance until she found out that he was a snake.

Aniston: But was he? Or was that just his nature? I don’t think he felt that it was intentional. He just is who he is. But that was fun. I’ve known the Hammanator for a long, long time. Witherspoon: How did y’all meet? Aniston: Paul Rudd! 12 years ago? Witherspoon: Paul Rudd is his agent. I’m not kidding! I did a movie with Paul Rudd in 1996, and that’s when I met Jon Hamm.

Alex and Paul’s love scene was more explicit than we’re used to seeing on the show. How did you guys prepare for that with director Mimi Leder?

Do you feel like Alex has a bad picker when it comes to men? This is the second time she’s chosen someone who’s publicly viewed as dangerous.

Witherspoon: Who was the first? Aniston: Mitch. Witherspoon: Oh, you weren’t a couple. Aniston: No, we weren’t a couple, but I loved him. Maybe we’ll find out why she has such a bad picker. It’s hard to be a really successful woman and make that part of your life — it’s sort of the last thing on your to-do list. You’re busy doing so many other things in the world, which is why I think I failed so terribly at marriage — Witherspoon: In the show. Aniston: In the show, oh yeah! Witherspoon: Just wanted to be clear. I don’t like saying women have bad pickers. Because that sort of feels like a judgment. Maybe Alex is brave enough to break her own heart. Aniston: Or maybe these are lessons she’s in need of. Because, everything I’ve gone through in my life, there’s not one thing I would do over, at all. It’s all our journey.

Chip made quite a splash on air after being fired from “TMS.” Will Mark Duplass be back?  

Aniston: We have no idea what could happen in our world. Witherspoon: He could be in prison, too! Aniston: He could produce you from the cell.

With everything going on in the world, what topics would you guys like to dive into?

Witherspoon: I think it would be great to do something with AI and the veracity of news when things can be so easily manufactured. It’s really a strange time for journalism, and it just continues to evolve. Aniston: It’s unsettling to know that so much is manufactured and can be so easily manufactured and that so many people just believe it at face value. There was so much respect for journalism and now, it’s so divided — you listen to one news channel and it’s this story and another news channel and it’s this story. It’s heartbreaking, that division. I hope it’s just an ebb and flow, and that the goodness, the quality and the respect will hopefully come back. It’s a really scary time to be a journalist.

Some people view the show as “camp.” What do you both think? 

Witherspoon: Like “Dynasty” campy? I don’t have a good perspective about that. I think we’re the wrong people to ask! I love “Dynasty.” I love powerful women in great outfits having a verbal argument. Aniston: Give me some good “Below Deck: Down Under.” That’s all I can digest sometimes!

What do you want people to get out of “The Morning Show”?

The show began with UBA rebuilding post-Mitch scandal. With UBA and MBN merging in Season 4, could this be a set up for the show’s final season?

Witherspoon: Or does it create an entirely new world of characters? A new eco-system? We’ve always thought this world is so rich that you can find new characters, stories and new TV personalities, people who have emerged in the zeitgeist.

How did you stay creative during the strike?

Witherspoon: I found a chocolatier, and had them teach me and some of my friends how to make chocolates. Aniston: Actual chocolate bars? Witherspoon: No, bonbons. Aniston: Like Lucy and Ethel? Witherspoon: Yes, it’s so fun. We’ve got to do it! It’s so easy, too. Aniston: Can we please have a night where we do that? I made soap and tree ornaments. I went to Ojai, turned off the news, and with my three best friends since I was 15 and 20, just got creative. Witherspoon: This is one of my favorite things about Jen — she has friends from high school on. It’s a testament to what a good friend you are. Aniston: We kind of raised each other. We all came from little tumultuous, broken families. It was the ’70s, ’80s, it was sort of a different time. People weren’t going, “How are you feeling? How does it make you feel?” No one’s ever asked me, “How does something make you feel?” All my friends’ kids are in therapy! Everybody’s fabulous. Your two kids — look at them! Witherspoon: I have three. Aniston: Three! That’s what I meant. Witherspoon: It’s hard to keep track. By the way, I forget sometimes.  Aniston: You still look like a little tiny girl to me, like my little sister. Like I always said, baby with a baby. Witherspoon: I was a baby with a baby when I was on the set of “Friends.” I was like, “I’m nursing! Want to see my baby?” 

Speaking of “Friends,” Jennifer, you recently lost a member of the “Friends” family . How do you want the world to remember Matthew Perry?

Aniston: As he said he’d love to be remembered . He was happy. He was healthy. He had quit smoking. He was getting in shape. He was happy — that’s all I know. I was literally texting with him that morning, funny Matty. He was not in pain. He wasn’t struggling . He was happy. Witherspoon: It’s important people know that. Aniston: It is. I want people to know he was really healthy, and getting healthy. He was on a pursuit. He worked so hard. He really was dealt a tough one. I miss him dearly. We all do. Boy, he made us laugh really hard.

So many people — from those who knew him to journalists — penned tributes to him. It must have been so incredible to see the outpouring of love.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

More from Variety

China Box Office: Thai Comedy ‘How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’ Climbs to Third, as ‘Alien: Romulus’ Reaches $100 Million Milestone

China Box Office: ‘Stand By Me’ Wins Muddled-up Mid-Autumn Holiday Weekend

Korea Box Office: ‘I, The Executioner’ Reaches $40 Million After Second Weekend, as ‘Begin Again’ Enjoys Return

What Lionsgate’s Partnership Deal With Runway Means

All ‘Harry Potter’ Movies to Get Theatrical Re-Releases in China (EXCLUSIVE)

More from our brands, bright eyes cancel remainder of 2024 tour dates due to conor oberst’s vocal issues.

Home Depot Co-Founder Bernie Marcus Just Put His Atlanta Condo on the Market for $5 Million

Georgia vs. Alabama Football: Battle of the Big Budgets

The Best Loofahs and Body Scrubbers, According to Dermatologists

Power Book II: Ghost’s [Spoiler] Meets a Bloody End in Lead-Up to the Series Finale — Read Recap

Jordan Love's status still a mystery for showdown with Vikings

By chris schad | sep 24, 2024.

The Minnesota Vikings will take on the Green Bay Packers in a key early season showdown in Week 4 but they still don’t know which quarterback they’ll be facing on Sunday afternoon.

Jordan Love’s status has been up in the air after suffering a knee injury during a season-opening loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 1. While Love has been inching closer to a return to the field in the past couple of weeks, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur was vague on his condition when talking to reporters on Monday, saying Love will be “limited” in practice and will “work it day-by-day.”

"I think anybody that saw what happened to him, that’s a legitimate injury. He’s working through it. He’s doing everything in his power to be out there. We want him out there." -  Packers head coach Matt LaFleur

Jordan Love's status still a mystery for showdown with Vikings

Love suffered a sprained MCL after Jalen Carter tackled him in the closing moments of a 34-29 loss to Philadelphia in San Paolo, Brazil on Sept. 6. Love escaped serious injury on the play and was expected to miss a few weeks due to the injury. But Love returned to practice last week and wasn’t ruled out until the inactive list was released on Sunday 90 before the Packers faced the Tennessee Titans.

It would make sense if the Packers wanted their franchise signal caller under center as soon as possible – especially with a key divisional matchup on Sunday. But the Packers could also be taking a long-term view after making Love the highest-paid quarterback in NFL history with a four-year extension in August.

If the Packers choose to be cautious, Malik WIllis has done a solid job filling in, completing 73.5 percent of his passes for 324 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. But while he has won both starts in Love’s absence, the Packers’ game plan shifted dramatically with 53 rushing attempts against the Colts and 37 rushing attempts against the Titans last week.

Put it together and there’s a real chance the Minnesota Vikings may not know who is starting at quarterback for the Green Bay Packers until they run out of the tunnel on Sunday afternoon for their Week 4 matchup. Then again, it may not matter the way Brian Flores’s defense has been playing this season, ranking second behind the Pittsburgh Steelers with 30 points allowed in the first three games.

More Vikings news and analysis