Jordan Travel Tips 2026 – Practical Advice for Every Traveler
Jordan is one of the Middle East’s most accessible and rewarding destinations. Whether you are a solo traveler, couple, family, or adventure seeker, these practical tips will help you navigate Jordan like a local, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of your time in this incredible country.
Before You Travel – Essential Preparation
Sort Your Visa First
Apply for your Jordan eVisa at least one week before departure. Most eligible nationalities can apply online in minutes and receive approval within 1-3 business days. Alternatively, if you plan to visit Petra and stay 3+ nights, the Jordan Pass includes the visa fee. See our Jordan eVisa vs Jordan Pass comparison to decide.
Travel Insurance is Non-Negotiable
Healthcare costs in Jordan for non-residents can be high. Ensure your policy covers emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and adventure activities (hiking, diving in Aqaba). Your EHIC/GHIC (EU/UK) does not cover Jordan.
Register with Your Embassy
US travelers should register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). UK citizens can register with FCDO. This helps your embassy contact you in case of emergencies.
Money and Payments
- Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD). 1 JOD ≈ $1.41 USD. Euros and dollars widely accepted at tourist sites.
- ATMs: Widely available in Amman, Aqaba, and tourist areas. Withdraw JOD on arrival for best rates.
- Credit cards: Accepted at hotels, restaurants, and major tourist sites. Less reliable at smaller shops and in rural areas.
- Cash for small purchases: Street food, local markets, and transportation often cash-only.
- Tipping: Expected in restaurants (10% standard), for guides (JOD 5-10 per day), and hotel staff.
Getting Around Jordan
Rental Car – Best for Flexibility
A rental car is the best way to see Jordan at your own pace. Roads are generally good and well-signed. The King’s Highway between Amman and Petra is one of the world’s great scenic drives, passing Madaba, Mount Nebo, Kerak Castle, and Dana Nature Reserve. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national license.
Public Transport
JETT buses are reliable and air-conditioned, running Amman-Petra and Amman-Aqaba daily. Shared taxis (servees) connect cities cheaply but on their own schedule. Local minibuses are budget options for shorter routes.
Taxis and Apps
In Amman, Uber and Careem are reliable, cheap, and tracked. Traditional taxis should use meters or agree price before entering. From the airport, official taxi counters are in the arrivals hall.
Safety Tips
- Jordan is genuinely safe for tourists – violent crime against visitors is very rare
- Be cautious with your belongings in busy markets (souks) in Amman
- Do not venture off-marked paths in Wadi Rum or Petra without a guide
- Stay updated on regional news – while Jordan itself is stable, borders with Syria and Iraq are closed
- Carry a copy of your passport and Jordan eVisa separately from originals
Cultural Etiquette
- Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and knees outside resorts, hotels, and international beach areas. Jordan is conservative but tolerant.
- Ramadan: If visiting during Ramadan (dates shift annually), be respectful – avoid eating/drinking/smoking in public during daylight hours. Many restaurants close during the day.
- Greetings: A warm “Marhaba” (hello) or “Shukran” (thank you) goes a long way. Jordanians are famously hospitable.
- Photography: Ask permission before photographing local people, especially women. Military installations cannot be photographed.
- Haggling: Expected in souks. Start at 50-60% of the asking price. Smile and be friendly – it is a social exchange, not a battle.
Health and Wellbeing
- Drink bottled water only
- Sunscreen and a hat are essential year-round
- Carry any prescription medications with you – pharmacies in Jordan may not have exact equivalents
- The Dead Sea waters are intensely salty – do not submerge your face or get water in your eyes
- At high altitude sites (Petra, Wadi Rum desert nights) temperatures drop significantly at night – layer up
Best Jordan Apps
- Uber/Careem: Taxis in Amman
- Google Maps: Works well in Jordan for navigation
- XE Currency: For JOD conversion rates
- Jordan Tourism Board app: Attraction information and maps
Do I need to book Jordan tourist sites in advance?
Petra and Wadi Rum can be visited without advance booking, though accommodation and guided tours in Wadi Rum should be booked ahead, especially in peak season (spring). The Petra by Night show benefits from advance booking.
What is the best SIM card for Jordan?
Orange Jordan and Zain Jordan both offer affordable prepaid SIM cards with good data packages. Purchase at Queen Alia Airport arrivals hall or any telecommunications store in Amman. Bring your passport to activate.
Can I use my phone in Jordan?
Most international phones work in Jordan. Check roaming charges with your provider before travel. A local SIM card is cheaper for extended stays. WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants.
Is bargaining normal in Jordan?
Bargaining is expected in traditional markets (souks) and craft shops. It is not appropriate in fixed-price shops, restaurants, or tourist ticket offices. Start negotiations at around half the asking price and meet somewhere in the middle.
What are Jordanian hours – when do things open?
Jordan follows Islamic working hours. Government offices and many businesses work Sunday-Thursday. Friday is the Islamic holy day (many businesses closed or have reduced hours). Saturdays are mixed. Shops in tourist areas often stay open 7 days including evenings.
How do I get from Queen Alia Airport to Amman?
Options from Queen Alia International Airport to Amman center (45 minutes): official airport taxi (fixed rate, purchase voucher in arrivals), JETT airport bus (cheap, drops at 7th Circle), or arrange hotel pickup in advance.
