Comprehensive Guide to Exploring Jordan: Essential Information and Travel Tips

Jordan, with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant history, offers a unique travel experience that captivates visitors. This guide provides essential information and tips to help you prepare for your 10-day tour of Jordan, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Tour Overview

This 10-day tour of Jordan covers key destinations including Amman, Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba. Each location offers unique experiences, from vibrant urban life and cultural immersion to historical exploration and natural beauty.

Travel Preparation

Visas and Documentation: Ensure you have a valid passport. Most travelers require a visa to enter Jordan, which can be obtained on arrival or in advance. Check the specific visa requirements for your country before travel.

Health and Safety: Jordan has good healthcare facilities. No specific vaccinations are required, but it’s recommended to have routine vaccinations up to date. Travel insurance with health coverage is advisable.

Currency and Banking: The Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is the official currency. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in remote areas.

Packing Essentials: Pack comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Depending on the season, bring light clothing for summer or warm layers for winter. A good quality hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a travel adapter are essential. Don’t forget your camera to capture Jordan’s stunning landscapes and cultural sites.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas. In general, casual and comfortable attire is suitable for most occasions.

Respect for Traditions: Greet people with a friendly “As-Salamu Alaikum” (peace be upon you) and respond with “Wa Alaikum As-Salam” (and upon you be peace). Use “Shukran” (thank you) to show appreciation. Respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious and rural areas.

Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can be appreciated by locals.

Food and Drink: Jordanian cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes. Must-try foods include mansaf (lamb with yogurt sauce), falafel, hummus, and maqluba (upside-down rice and meat dish). Stick to bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.

Transportation

Flights: Queen Alia International Airport in Amman is the main international gateway. Domestic flights connect major cities and tourist destinations.

Road Travel: Renting a car is a popular way to explore Jordan. The country has a well-maintained road network. Ensure you have a valid international driving permit.

Public Transport: Jordan has a reliable public transport network, including buses and taxis. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem operate in major cities.

Tour Highlights

Amman: Explore the Citadel, Roman Theatre, Jordan Museum, King Abdullah I Mosque, and downtown markets. Enjoy a cultural performance at the Royal Cultural Center.

Jerash: Visit the Oval Plaza, Cardo Maximus, and Hadrian’s Arch.

Petra: Discover the Siq, Treasury, Monastery, Royal Tombs, and Great Temple. Enjoy views from the High Place of Sacrifice.

Wadi Rum: Take a 4x4 jeep tour, explore rock formations, sand dunes, and petroglyphs. Enjoy a traditional Bedouin camp experience.

Aqaba: Relax on the beach, snorkel, and dive in the Red Sea. Visit the Aqaba Fort and enjoy water activities.