british travelling to jordan

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Warnings and insurance

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). 

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Jordan-syria border.

FCDO advises against all travel to within 3km of the border with Syria.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers
• solo and independent travel
• volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

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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 respectful ly – i t’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.

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 August 2019 and updated November 2023

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Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? The latest travel advice

Here’s everything we know so far about travelling to Jordan amid the Israel-Hamas conflict

Home to five Unesco World Heritage Sites and more than 100,000 archeological and religious landmarks – including Petra, one of the most famous in the world – Jordan makes for a fascinating holiday destination for all those interested in Middle Eastern history. It’s a popular destination for some winter sun, and annually it has around 5 million visitors. 

However, as the country borders Israel , where a violent war between Israel and Hamas has been unfolding since Saturday, travellers are questioning if it’s safe to visit this part of the world. Israel has just declared a state of emergency, so here is everything we know so far about travelling to Jordan. 

Is it safe to travel to Jordan at the moment? 

The UK Foreign Office is not currently advising against travel to Jordan. 

The Jordan Tourism Board released a statement to address concerns about safety for travellers. It says: ‘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.

‘As always, the Jordan Tourism Board is here to assist and support tourists in making the most of their visit.’

Flights to and from Queen Alia International Airport in Amman and King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba are still going ahead. Many airlines have suspended their services to Israel, but there have been no reports of this happening with flights to Jordan. 

What has the UK Foreign Office said? 

The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel guidance regarding Jordan, advising against all but essential travel to within 3 km of Jordan’s border with Syria, where it describes the situation as ‘fragile’. 

It also advises against all travel to the provinces in Iraq that border Jordan, and says that crossings with Israel could be shut with very short notice due to the conflict. 

Though the political situation in Jordan is stable and protests in Amman and other cities are usually peaceful, tourists should still be cautious. 

What about the travel advisory? 

Similarly to the UK Foreign Office, the Jordan Travel Advisory encourages caution. They recommend against all travel to the following locations:

• Within 3.5 km of the Jordanian border with Syria, and east of the town of Ruwayshid
• Designated Syrian refugee camps in Jordan due to government restrictions
• Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a neighbourhood of Ayn Basha due to risks of terrorism and crime

It also urges travellers to reconsider travel to Ma’an City and some areas of Ma’an Governorate. You can read more about their advice on travelling to Jordan on their webpage. 

Is it safe to travel to other places in the Middle East amid the conflict in Israel?

As the conflict rages on, travellers are uncertain about whether it’s safe to visit neighbouring countries. You can read our travel guide on Israel and Egypt here , and our guide for travel to Türkiye here . 

For all the information about helping those affected by the conflict in Israel, read  our guide on charities and organisations providing vital aid and where you can donate .

Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out travel newsletter for all the latest travel news. 

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Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? Latest travel advice

The foreign office has updated its travel advice for jordan following the us and uk strikes on houthi bases in yemen.

J ordan is in a rare position in the Middle East — it shares a land border with both Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. While the country hasn’t been directly involved in the conflict between Israel and Hamas, there have been protests over the war and it has been a key mediator. Jordan has come under added scrutiny since a drone attack killed three US troops on January 28 near the Syria-Jordan border, with the UK Foreign Office updating its travel advice.

Meanwhile, the country’s tourism board has emphasised that it remains “safe and welcoming” to tourists, and that its focus is the “safety and wellbeing” of all visitors who might want to explore the majestic Nabataean tombs at Petra and the mesmerising coastline along the Dead Sea, or understand the lives of the Bedouin people. Whether you have a trip coming up or are just beginning to plan one, here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: visitors enjoying the architectural ruins at Petra (Getty Images)

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Jordan?

The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to anywhere within 3km of Jordan’s border with Syria — this advice was in place before war broke out between Israel and Hamas . It considers the rest of the country to be generally safe for travel.

Since January 11, US and UK forces have carried out strikes against Houthi bases in Yemen in response to the group’s continued attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea. After the strikes began, the Foreign Office updated its travel advice for all neighbouring countries, including Jordan.

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It said: “Military activity is currently under way in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor travel advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.”

On 28 January, a drone attack against the US military on the Jordan-Syria border saw three US service members killed and dozens wounded.

While the Foreign Office hasn’t expanded its “do not travel” zone, it has updated its travel advice with the following: “The situation in southern Syria is fragile and security threats in the form of instability or terrorist activity could arise with little or no notice.”

Has Jordan been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Jordan has not been directly affected by the war between Israel and Hamas, in the sense that it is not involved in any fighting. It has been among the Arab nations trying to broker peace between the two, and there have been protests within the country.

Jordan has come under added scrutiny recently, however, because of a drone attack on January 28 on a US base near the Syria-Jordan border. Three US troops were killed and dozens more were injured; it is the first time US troops have been killed in the Middle East since the war in Gaza began. The Islamic Resistance of Iraq (IRI), an umbrella grouping of Iranian-aligned militias, has claimed responsibility for the attack, according to the UK Foreign Office.

On the situation in Jordan, the Foreign Office said: “The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country. International borders (air and land) in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories (OPTs) could close at short notice. As a result, the crossings between Jordan and Israel and the West Bank might be closed at short notice.

“In response to events in Israel and the OPTs, a number of demonstrations have taken place in Jordan and more protests have been planned over the coming days, including after Friday prayers. Some can be spontaneous and involve large numbers of people. You should avoid demonstrations and protests.” It added that “recent protests have also taken place in the vicinity of the Israeli and US Embassies”.

In a statement, the Jordanian tourist board said: “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 and we want to reassure everyone that Jordan’s borders are open to tourists.”

Here’s what you need to know about the travel advice for other countries

• Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? Latest travel advice • Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now? Latest government advice • Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? Latest travel advice • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? Latest travel advice • Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now? Latest travel advice

Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now?

The UK Foreign Office considers Jordan to be a safe destination and, aside from its advice on avoiding the border with Syria, has no warnings against travelling there. However, although most tourists have visited the country without incident, it is worth remaining vigilant.

Levels of crime are generally low in Jordan, with most incidents involving pickpocketing, bag snatching or theft from cars. You should keep your valuables secure and have your photo ID with you in case of checks.

According to the Foreign Office, disputes between tribes, families and other social groups can start without warning and turn violent or involve the use of firearms. It also states terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Jordan — these could take place at locations visited by tourists such as hotels, shopping malls, restaurants and tourist sites. The last high-profile incident was in November 2019, when a man carried out a knife attack at the Roman site in Jerash that left eight people injured.

What are Jordan’s entry requirements?

British citizens will need a visa to enter Jordan for tourism which can be obtained on arrival. Your passport will need to have a minimum of six months’ validity on the day you arrive.

A tourist visa costs 40 Jordanian dinars (about £46) and is valid for one month. The visa can be extended for up to six months once you’re in Jordan. However, if you stay in the country for more than 30 days, you’ll need to undergo a mandatory HIV test and obtain a health certificate, which currently costs 20 dinars (about £23).

If you’re leaving the country via one of the road borders, you’ll also need to pay an exit tax of ten dinars (about £11); those leaving the country on a flight are exempt.

• Best things to do do in Jordan • Best time to visit Jordan

Is Jordan safe for female travellers?

Jordan is generally safe for female travellers but they can receive unwanted attention, in the form of both verbal and physical harassment, in more remote areas of the country. The Foreign Office says that occasionally these situations have escalated and there has been an increase in reports of sexual assault.

Female travellers should therefore take care when walking or travelling alone, during the day as well as at night. They should also avoid sitting in the front seat of a taxi.

Is Jordan safe for LGBTQ travellers?

The Foreign Office says that Jordanian law does not “explicitly prohibit homosexual acts”. However, public displays of affection between same-sex couples are not generally tolerated and could lead to arrest under other Jordanian laws.

Can you drink alcohol in Jordan?

Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country but alcohol is permitted. However, it’s illegal to consume alcohol on the street — it’s only allowed in bars, clubs, hotels and private homes.

You should also be aware that during Ramadan, while restaurants in cities such as Amman remain open during the day, eating in the street is likely to cause problems.

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Related articles

Jordan Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before you Visit Jordan

Are you planning a trip to Jordan? START HERE

Jordan was my first ever trip to the Middle East. I loved it so much that I came back just 5 months later and rented a small apartment with my two boys. This gave us a chance to explore everything that Jordan had to offer and in many visits since, this Jordan travel blog was born! I have put everything I know into this comprehensive Jordan travel guide and I am always happy to talk about Jordan. If you ever have questions or cannot find what you are looking for on my site, feel free to reach out! I am always happy to answer emails! You can also check out the Jordan Facebook group to ask your questions there as well!

Rest assured that Step into Jordan has everything that you need to plan your trip to Jordan from start to finish. I have tried to put this guide into a logical order for someone who has never traveled to Jordan before. I know when I was going on my first trip I wanted to know everything I should expect! Here you can start with the basics of a visit to Jordan and then dive deeper into in depth destination guides and itineraries and everything you need to know.

Jordan Travel Guide

Jordan is one of the top adventure destinations in the world. I love that you can be exploring the wonders of Petra one day and then scuba diving stunning reefs off the coast of the Red Sea the next. In Amman, you can be enjoying street food downtown for lunch and then floating on the Dead Sea in the afternoon before retiring to one of the resorts on its shores! Wadi Rum is probably my favorite part of Jordan, but that should not take away from Petra or the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea. I always encourage everyone who visits Jordan to at least spend a night in Wadi Rum because my first tour to Jordan only had us there for an afternoon and I think that was a big fail on their part.

Overwhelmed with Planning a trip to Jordan?

Want to skip all of the planning and access my detailed Jordan Itinerary and Guide? I have been to Jordan several times and after being asked again and again for suggestions, not only did I build this website but I created an interactive PDF guide to help you plan the best trip to Jordan! It includes an interactive map, multiple itineraries for up to 10 days and as little as three days and plenty of practical information about renting a car and driving in Jordan. Get the guide by clicking the button below. 

The Best Time To Visit Jordan

March until May and September to mid-November are the best time to visit Jordan . It offers the best temperatures and avoids the busy (and hot) summer travel season which sees locals as well as tourists from the gulf region spending their summer break in Jordan. You can read more about each season in Jordan in the link above. The only time I do not recommend traveling to Jordan is December to February as the poor weather can dampen many of the outdoor adventures Jordan is famous for.

What to Expect in Jordan

Visas: The vast majority of nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival in Jordan. Check before you visit. If you are planning on visiting Jordan independently, the Jordan Pass can save you some money as it waives the visa fees for entering the country if you are staying at least a few nights in the country.

Safety: Jordan is a safe country to visit and is known for its friendly locals who are very proud Jordanians. Visitors are unlikely to go a day in Jordan without a smile and a “welcome to Jordan” from a local. Women traveling solo are often questioned by locals about a “where their husbands are?” but it is most often polite small talk and curiousity. Smiling and chatting with locals can be considered flirting and it is reccomended women not take invitiations to visit caves in Petra at night with local tribes. Car accidents are typically the most dangerous part of Jordan.

Language: The official language is Arabic but English is widely spoken in the tourist areas. Road signage is in Arabic and English as are most menus, receipts and money.

Religion: 95% Muslim 4% Christian

Currency: The official currency is the Jordanian Dinar, which is tied to the USD. 1 USD is about JOD 0.71. When shopping you will often hear the currency referred to as “JD” such as “one JD” or “dinar” such as “one Dinar.”

Main Tourist Sites : Petra, Wadi Rum, Mount Nebo, Madaba, Dead Sea, Jerash, Jesus Baptism Site

Budget: While many countries in the Middle East are quite inexpensive to travel, Jordan is not one of them. A 1 JD bottle of water costs about USD1.41. Luxury Hotels and Resorts will run guests about USD150-200 and a bottle of wine in a liquor store will cost patrons about USD30. Taxi’s and street food are two things that are inexpensive in Jordan. There are ATM’s in almost every major hotel and in Amman there are plenty of currency exchange options. However, cash is still king in Jordan. Locals use cash for everything from grocery store purchases to roadside tea to hotel rooms. While you can use credit cards at major hotels and tourist shops, it is best to have cash on hand each day.

Electricity: The plugs in Jordan are Type C, D, F, G, and J. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. Use a universal adapter so you can adapt to the changing plug situation in the kingdom.

Airports: Jordan’s main international Airport is Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) located outside of Amman. Aqaba International Airport (AQJ) is located in the south of the country on the Red Sea in Aqaba. European Low Cost flights often fly into Aqaba on a seasonal basis offering the resort area as a getaway for Europeans looking to escape winter.

Tipping: Tipping is a big part of the service culture in Jordan, but unlike other countries (Egypt for instance), genuine tips such as driving directions are given without a second thought. When it comes to restaurants, it is common to add 10% to the bill, tip 1 JD for luggage service and round up to the next dinar for a taxi. Guides and drivers also work for tips and a base line guide for a group tour is JD3 per day for the driver and JD5 per day for the guide (per person in the group). A private guide JD25 per day is a typical tip for the group.

Cuisine: Jordanian food is a big part of a Jordan visit and taking advantage of the arabic flavors is part of the experience. From sweet Bedouin tea, hummus and bread to mansaf , make sure you enjoy all of the popular dishes in Jordan.

Alcohol: Although over 90% of the country is made up of Muslims, drinking is acceptable in Jordan, but not widespread. All 5 star hotels will have a well-stocked bar and there are plenty of liquor stores in Amman and Aqaba, but you will be hard-pressed to find much in places like Petra unless you are staying in a 5 star hotel like Movenpick or Marriott.

Water: You will read conflicting reports about tap water being drinkable or not. It really depends if the tap has a filter on it (which is hard to tell unless you have rented an apartment and look under the sink.) Most locals use tap water for washing and have a separate filtered tap. Stick to bottled water just to be sure. Generally hotel water in restaurants has been filtered.

Toilets: All hotels, rest stops and most restaurants have western toilets, but almost none of them have toilet paper. If you are not comfortable using the bidet sprayer, ensure you have some packed. Some rest stops have a bathroom attendant who will supply you with paper for a small tip. The same goes in Petra.

I nsurance and Medical: Jordan has modern hospitals and plenty of doctors if needed. I even took my son to a local doctor while in Jordan and the experience was one of the most authentic things you can do in Jordan (not that I am recommending you visit a doctor, but you really get a sense of the locals when you end up doing things that people who live in Jordan do everyday! With that being said, I highly suggest you buy travel insurance for Jordan. It is an inexpensive peace of mind for when those big accidents happen. You can get a quote on travel insurance for Jordan from this site.

Jordan Dress Code and Local Customs

What to wear in jordan.

While Jordan has modern cities, Jordanians have a typical conservative dress code. Men wear pants even in the hottest summer days unless they are at the beach. You will never see a Jordanian man topless, unless at a pool, on a boat or at the beach. Women should not wear low cut shirts or tank tops. Local Jordanian women generally wear tshirts or long sleeves and long pants all year round.

When visiting in the summer months, avoid short shorts unless at the beach resorts and pack a swim cover up to walk to and from the pool. I have plenty more advice on this post on what to wear in Jordan. Overall, locals are unlikely to comment on your dress, but it is best to dress respectfully.

Local Customs

Greetings: When it comes to greetings in Jordan, you will often see men hugging and cheek kissing (at least twice!) and women will often do the same. However, you will rarely see men and women in such an embrace. Shaking hands between men and women is totally fine. However, if you are a man greeting a conservatively dressed woman, let her be the first to extend a hand in greeting. Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Jordan. While in a resort you may see a couple holding hands, but that is about as much physical affection you will see from locals. When traveling in Jordan with your partner, keep your physical contact to a minimum.

Respecting Religion: It is normal for Muslims to pray in public. Be mindful of those praying outside and do not walk right in front of them or stare. You will see most drivers, even police officers with a prayer mat with them during the day. If you are visiting Jordan during Ramadan, it is advised to not eat in public. Locals will not say anything if you are drinking water, but if a local was to do it, they would likely be scorned by those who are choosing to fast.

If your visit does fall during Ramadan (or to get more info) check out Ramadan in Jordan

Photos: Always ask permission before taking photos of locals in Jordan. Especially women. Also, if you are a women traveling in Jordan and happen to run into a school group, do not be surprised if the students want to take photos with you! Jordanian children love interacting with guests to their country and practicing their English.

Visiting Jordan with Kids

Jordan is very kid-friendly and children are welcomed everywhere. My first trip to Jordan, my boys were just 5 and 3 years old. Jordan offers plenty of outdoor adventure that is perfect for kids! They rode camels, hiked in Petra , tried floating at the Dead Sea, snorkeled in Aqaba, rode a 4×4 in Wadi Rum and ate mansaf ! Do not be put off visiting Jordan with your children. Locals love children and while Jordan is not Disneyland, it is definitely a destination that can be enjoyed as a family!

If you are planning on coming to Jordan with your family, have a read of Jordan with kids.

Jordan Travel Guide Planning Resources

Ok so now you have the basics, what you need to decide now is if you want to have someone else plan your trip and take a guided tour, or if you want to see the country on your own. Both ways are fine and both suit a different style of traveler. I have done it both ways and I enjoyed getting to meet other liked minded people on a group tour. I love having a private guide with my kids so they can pepper him with their hundreds of questions and I do not have to worry about other guests. I also love renting a car and hitting the road!

How Long Should You Spend in Jordan?

This is one of the first things you need to figure out. Many people just come for 3-4 days but you really need at least 7 days to be able to see all of the high lights without spending every day rushing from place to place. If you are flying from the other side of the world, see if you can allow 10 days as that will give you the best amount of time to see what makes Jordan so special.

If you are combining Jordan with Egypt or Israel you can pick your must-sees and work around those. For many visitors it is a long way to go and stretching your vacation will get you the best bang for your buck.

Ready to Plan your Trip to Jordan?

If you have decided when you are going to Jordan and have a general idea on how long you have to spend in the country you are ready to move onto the next steps.

Almost every day I get asked if visitors should rent a car. Because of the lack of infrastructure, renting a car is the best way to get around. I generally suggest using RentalCars.com to compare prices across various rental agencies.

Most trips start in Amman but increasingly there are more low cost airlines from Europe flying into Aqaba on Jordan’s south coast! You are going to want to read the top things to do in Amman and the best things to do in Aqaba.

While in the low season the hotel inventory is high, in the busy seasons hotels can sell out. Sometimes there are NO HOTELS AVAILABLE IN PETRA and on Jordanian holidays, Aqaba can be all booked up! If you are traveling in peak periods you should book your accommodation as soon as you have set your dates. Check for flexible cancellations. I generally suggest using booking.com as their policies are easy to read.

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More travel information for Jordan

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Jordan

• Culture and Etiquette in Jordan
• Eating and drinking in Jordan
• How to get to Jordan
• Getting around Jordan: Transportation Tips
• Shopping tips for Jordan
• Best time to visit Jordan

Following strenuous efforts by cartographers and government officials, Jordan now uses street addresses in some areas – but it’s only in the big cities that streets sport nameplates and buildings are numbered. Problems arise in spelling – there’s no universally accepted method of transliterating Arabic into English, so online mapping systems may not use the same spelling as the street sign in front of you – and also in usage: many people still ignore the system, navigating instead in relation to prominent landmarks or by asking passers-by. Mail is delivered only to PO boxes at post offices.

Typical Costs in Jordan

Crime and personal safety in jordan, customs and duty-free, electricity, jordan visas and entry requirements, travel insurance, mail in jordan, jordan maps, money in jordan, jordan opening hours and public holidays, smoking in jordan, time in jordan, useful numbers, tourist information, useful websites, travellers with disabilities, travelling with children in jordan, health advice for jordan, the media in jordan, tailor-made travel itineraries for jordan, created by local experts.

6 days  / from 1333 USD

Discover Jordan

Jordan has it all: spectacular desert scenery; the Dead Sea, age-old cities, castles, monuments, and more. Discover the best of this welcoming country as you delve into the history of ancient civilizations and see one of the New Seven Wonders of the World up close.

8 days  / from 1665 USD

Treasures of Jordan

From the Dead Sea's restorative salty shores to Red Sea reefs teeming with aquatic life, Jordan is full of treasures. Get a taste of desert life and adventure in Wadi Rum; then fill up on culture in Petra and Amman, and maybe squeeze in a trip to Jerusalem, too.

6 days  / from 1080 USD

Highlights of Jordan

Explore the highlights of Jordan in this compact itinerary. Activities include stargazing in Wadi Rum, exploring Petra and spending a day at leisure at the Dead Sea. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories about history and culture and introduce the Bedouin lifestyle to you.

8 days  / from 1890 USD

An active adventure in Jordan

Experience a mix of hiking in the North of Jordan, canyon trails and relaxing activities combined with sightseeing of the highlights and meeting locals. This trip is accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and is not recommended during wintertime (November to February).

8 days  / from 1770 USD

Jordan Culture in depth

Get to know the Jordanian culture in depth, indulge in mouthwatering street and local homemade food, meet the owner of the smallest hotel in the world, learn more about the Bedouins and the desert in Wadi Rum and finish off by floating over the Dead Sea mineral water.

8 days  / from 1800 USD

Family adventure in Jordan

Indulge into the magical ancient world of Jordan on this thrilling family adventure! This tour has been specially designed to highlight the most exciting corners of Jordan, from natural reserves to historical Jerash to magnificent Petra, from Wadi Rum desert to the blissful Dead Sea.

8 days  / from 1330 USD

Follow the Foot Steps of Jesus in Jordan

Jordan is a full-option land that include marks for each religion and civilization! During this holiday you will be introduced to many Biblical places across our beloved county accompanied with our knowledgeable tour guide you will tells you a lot about fascinating history and culture of Jordan.

8 days  / from 1440 USD

Jordan Heritage Step by Step

Visit the highlights and attractions of Jordan from the North to the South to find out more about the region’s ancient history, experience the Bedouin lifestyle and meet locals. A knowledgeable tour guide will accompany you to describe the fascinating history and culture of Jordan.

8 days  / from 1590 USD

Mind, body & soul in Jordan

Jordan is known worldwide as a natural spa and you will discover why. During this holiday, you will find your “peace of mind”. Discover Jordan highlights with relaxing activities and meeting locals. Visit peaceful spots with breathtaking landscapes and practice true relaxation.

9 days  / from 7650 USD

Luxury Tour of Jordan

Embark on a remarkable journey through Jordan, exploring Petra's ancient wonders, indulging in Aqaba's Red Sea luxury, and immersing in Wadi Rum's surreal desert landscapes. Visit the sacred site of baptism in Bethany, connecting with history and spirituality.

5 days  / from 1425 USD

Classic Tour in Jordan

Journey through ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes in Jordan. Explore the iconic marvels of Petra and traverse the surreal red desert of Wadi Rum. Capture mesmerizing memories and carry the beauty of Jordan in your heart forever.

10 days  / from 3105 USD

Honeymoon in Jordan

Indulge in a blissful honeymoon in Jordan, where relaxation and adventure await. Soak in the soothing Ma'in Hot Springs, explore the captivating landscapes of Wadi Rum, and wander hand in hand through the ancient wonders of Petra.

6 days  / from 2045 USD

Jordan Highlights - from Aqaba

Uncover the magic of Aqaba's Red Sea, marvel at Petra's ancient wonders, and immerse yourself in the surreal landscapes of Wadi Rum. Jordan's captivating beauty will leave an indelible mark on your heart, creating memories that will endure a lifetime.

7 days  / from 1630 USD

Jordan for Culture Enthusiasts

Jordan is perfect for Arab culture enthusiasts! Immerse yourself in Jordanian culture and experience real Bedouin hospitality. Visit the highlights in Jordan, meet locals and learn from them and your knowledgeable guide about Jordanian customs and traditions.

Though sometimes surprisingly expensive, Jordan is generally pretty good value. It’s possible to see the sights, eat adequately, sleep in basic comfort and get around on public transport for roughly £70/US$90 a day for two. If you like things more comfortable – staying in good mid-range hotels, eating well, perhaps renting a car to see some out-of-the-way places – reckon on nearer £120/US$150 a day for two. To travel independently while hiring drivers and guides, staying in five-star hotels and generally living the high life, a realistic minimum is £250/US$320 a day for two. All these figures – which are rounded and approximate – exclude the cost of getting into Petra, which at £100/US$130 for a two-day ticket for two people, could bust your budget, though the Jordan Pass (see page ) can help offset some costs.

Jordan has a government sales tax, which applies at different rates, depending on the goods/services involved, up to about sixteen percent: bear in mind that, in many situations, the price you see (or are told) doesn’t include this tax, which is only added on when you come to pay. In Aqaba, sales tax is lower than the rest of Jordan. In addition, hotels and restaurants above a certain quality threshold automatically add a ten percent service charge to all bills. They are legally obliged to state these charges somewhere, although it can be as surreptitious as a tiny line on the bottom of a menu.

The sense of honour and hospitality to guests embedded deep within Arab culture, coupled with a respect for others, means that you’re extremely unlikely to become a victim of crime while in Jordan. Along with the ordinary police, Jordan maintains a force of English-speaking tourist police, identifiable by their armbands with English lettering. Posted at all tourist sites nationwide, they can deal with requests, complaints or problems of harassment. Any representation by a foreigner, whether to the tourist police or the ordinary local police, will generally have you ushered into the presence of senior officers, sat down and plied with coffee, with your complaint taken with the utmost seriousness. The nationwide police emergency number is T911. Dial T199 for an ambulance. Otherwise you’re only likely to tangle with the police if they catch you speeding.

Terrorism and civil disorder in Jordan are extremely rare. At the time of writing, the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) had no warning against travel anywhere in Jordan, other than to within 3km of the border with Syria, because of the small risk of stray firing from across the frontier. There is no reason for tourists to venture anywhere near the border, anyway. Across the country, all big hotels have barriers keeping vehicles clear of the entrance, and airport-style security for everyone entering the building (including compulsory baggage X-ray and body search). Armed police patrol all major tourist sites. Regardless of the impression you might get from the nightly news – and as long as you stay clear of the border zones with Syria and Iraq – you’d be in no more danger travelling round Jordan than you might be in your home country.

Note that it is illegal to insult the king or the royal family, possess drugs or pornography, preach Christianity in public or encourage people to convert to any religion other than Islam.

You’re permitted to buy two hundred cigarettes, one litre of spirits and two litres of wine duty-free on arrival in Jordan. All borders and airports have duty-free shops which open for long hours, but if you forget to buy your allowance of alcohol, cigarettes, perfume or electronic goods when you arrive, you can go to the Duty-Free Shop on Tunis Street near 5th Circle in Amman (T06 520 6666, jdfshops.com ) within fourteen days, where the whole range is available. Bring your passport.

The area around Aqaba is a Special Economic Zone, with lower taxes and its own customs rules: on all roads into the city, you’ll have to pass through a customs station. On departing the zone, you may be subject to checks: personal items, plus up to two hundred cigarettes and one litre of alcohol that you bought in the zone, are exempt from duty.

Departing Jordan, duty-free shops at the airports and the land borders stock familiar ranges.

The supply in Jordan is 220V AC, 50Hz – the same as in Europe. Most new buildings and big hotels have British-style square three-pin sockets. Older buildings tend to have two-pin sockets for European-style thick-pronged, round plugs.

No immunizations or vaccinations are required to enter Jordan. However, before you travel, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re up to date with immunizations against hepatitis A, polio, tetanus (lockjaw), tuberculosis and typhoid fever. You should consult a doctor at least two months in advance of your departure date, as there are some immunizations that can’t be given at the same time, and several take a while to become effective.

Travel clinics

Australia & NZ traveldoctor.com.au .

Canada CSIH csih.org .

Ireland TMB tmb.ie .

UK MASTA masta.org .

US CDC cdc.gov/travel .

All visitors to Jordan must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the proposed date of entry to the country.

On arrival at all airports, as well as at most land and sea borders – apart from the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge and the Eilat–Aqaba border – most nationalities are routinely issued with a single-entry visa. If you arrive at Aqaba, it’s free; if you arrive anywhere else, it costs JD40 (payable in cash, Jordanian dinars only).

The visa fee is waived if you hold the Jordan Pass or if your trip has been booked through a licensed Jordanian tour operator and you’ll be spending at least two nights in Jordan.

Multiple-entry visas are available in advance only, from Jordanian embassies and consulates, for JD120 or the local equivalent.

Citizens of around fifty developing countries – listed at wvisitjordan.com – cannot obtain a visa on arrival and must instead apply at the nearest Jordanian embassy at least three months prior to travel.

Both single- and multiple-entry visas are valid for a stay of thirty days. If you’re planning to stay longer than that, you must register at any police station in the last couple of days before the thirty-day period is up – a simple, free, five-minute procedure which grants a three-month extension. For any queries, ask your hotel (or an Arabic-speaking friend) to call the Borders and Residence Department (T06 550 5360, psd.gov.jo ), part of the Public Security Directorate, on your behalf.

If you plan to enter Jordan for the first time via the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge, or via the crossing from Eilat to Aqaba, you must already hold a visa – they are not issued at these crossing points. If you left Jordan via the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge and are returning via the same bridge, you don’t need to buy another visa as long as your current one is still within its thirty-day validity period.

Always carry your passport on you: you’ll need it to check into hotels and to ease your way through any checkpoints.

Embassies and consulates

Full lists are at wvisitjordan.com .

Jordanian embassies abroad

Embassies and consulates in amman, visas at aqaba.

If you intend to cross by land from Eilat (Israel) to Aqaba you must already hold a Jordanian visa in advance.

If you arrive in Jordan elsewhere – other than the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge – and you let the passport officials know that you intend to go directly to Aqaba, you are in theory entitled to get a free ASEZ visa rather than paying for a standard visa. In these cases, though, you must register at the ASEZA offices in Aqaba within 48 hours of your arrival in Jordan: if you miss this deadline, you become liable for the cost of the visa plus a fine.

It’s essential to take out a good travel insurance policy to cover against theft, loss of property and illness or injury. Before paying for a new policy, however, it’s worth checking whether you are already covered: home insurance may cover your possessions when overseas, many private medical schemes include cover when abroad and premium bank accounts or credit cards often have travel insurance included. After exhausting these possibilities, contact a specialist travel insurance firm.

Airmail letters and postcards can take a week or two to Western Europe, up to a month to North America or Australasia. Asking someone to write the destination country in Arabic can help avoid things going astray. It’s safest to ignore the street postboxes and instead send your mail from larger post offices, all of which have a box for airmail ( barid jowwy ). Stamps ( tawabe’a ) cost pennies, but parcels are expensive (JD10–15 for 1kg). International courier firms are well represented in Amman and Aqaba.

Our detailed and interactive maps will guide you through your travels in Jordan. Click here to view our maps online .

The Jordanian unit of currency is the dinar, abbreviated to JD (or JOD). Most people refer to the dinar as a “ jaydee ” or a “ lira ”. One dinar is divided into 1000 fils or 100 piastres ( qirsh ). Locals always think in piastres; they only refer to fils when talking to foreigners. A hotel, restaurant or shop bill will show either “14.65” or “14.650”, both of which mean 14 dinars and 65 piastres (that is, 650 fils). In this Guide, we stick to two decimal places only.

Banknotes are JD50, JD20, JD10, JD5 and JD1, all with Arabic on one side and English on the other. For coins, there’s a gold, seven-sided half-dinar coin inset with a circular silver bit in the middle; a smaller quarter-dinar coin, also gold and seven-sided but without the silver inset; and silver coins of ten piastres and five piastres. All coins state their value on them somewhere in tiny English lettering.

In verbal exchanges, you’ll find that people quite often leave the denomination off the end of prices. If they say something costs “ ashreen ” (twenty), it’s up to you to decide whether they mean 20 fils (a throwaway amount), 20 piastres (ie 200 fils; the price of a street snack or a short bus ride), or 20 JDs (the cost of a room in a small hotel). Nicknames also pop up: 10 piastres is a barizeh and 5 piastres is a shilin .

Changing and carrying money

Few banks in the West keep Jordanian dinars on hand, but you should be able to order them with a few days’ notice. It’s a good idea to bring JD80 or so with you in cash, to cover visa and transport costs on arrival.

Most hotels and shops above the cheapest level accept credit and debit cards, but Jordan is a cash society: just about everywhere the preferred method of payment is local banknotes. You can’t pay in dollars, euros or other currencies.

Security-wise, Jordan is safer than anywhere in the West: you can carry wads of cash around in your pocket without concern. You’re more likely to be invited for tea than mugged.

For changing money, every town has a welter of banks, with identical exchange rates, and there are also plenty of independent change offices. Cash machines (ATMs) are widespread, always with an English option. You can generally withdraw a maximum of around JD250 a day, depending on your card provider, but watch for hidden fees and commission charges: it’s worth checking your terms and conditions before you leave home – and switching to a card tailored for holiday use if you can. There’s no black market in currency exchange.

Jordan’s working week runs from Sunday to Thursday. Public sector office hours are 8am–3pm; private sector businesses tend to follow a split pattern, perhaps 8.30am–1pm and 3.30–6.30pm. The weekend is officially Friday, though banks, government departments and many businesses also close on Saturdays.

Although Muslims pray together in the mosque on a Friday, the concept of a “sabbath” or “day of rest” does not translate: downtown shops and markets are generally open seven days a week, roughly 9am–9pm. More upmarket shops tend to open 9/9.30am–6/7pm, perhaps closing for two or three hours at lunchtime. Almost everywhere shuts for a couple of hours around Friday midday prayers. All transport services operate seven days a week, though there are fewer services on Fridays (none at all on some routes).

During Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, everything changes. Shops and offices open from 9am to 2 or 3pm (closed Fri), while street markets operate every day until about an hour before sunset. Banks and government departments may only be open for two or three hours in the morning. Some shops might reopen for a couple of hours after dark.

Public holidays in Jordan

Jordan’s secular national holidays tend to be low-key affairs; banks, businesses and government offices are closed, but shops might open as normal. Even though Jordan’s Christians are mostly Orthodox and follow the Julian calendar, which varies from the Gregorian calendar used in the West by a couple of weeks, everyone has agreed to celebrate Christmas Day together as a national holiday on December 25 (Muslim shops and businesses don’t close).

Jordan public holidays

• Jan 1 New Year’s Day
• May 1 Labour Day
• May 25 Independence Day
• Dec 25 Christmas Day

Islamic holidays and Ramadan

Islamic religious holidays, based on the Hijra calendar, are marked by widespread public observance. All shops and offices are closed and non-essential services are liable to be suspended. The following dates are approximate, since each holiday is announced only when the new moon has been seen clearly by an authorized cleric from Jordan’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs. Quoted dates could vary by a couple of days. The start of the holy month of Ramadan is also included here; Ramadan is not a holiday, but since it comprises thirty days of restricted business hours, its first day is a useful date to know.

Islamic holidays

Eid al-Isra wal-Miraj Night Journey to Heaven:

March 22, 2020; March 11, 2021; March 1, 2022; Feb 18, 2023.

1st day of Ramadan: April 24, 2020; April 13, 2021; April 2, 2022; March 22, 2023.

Eid al-Fitr Three days: begins May 24, 2020; May 13, 2021; May 3, 2022; April 22, 2023.

Eid al-Adha Four days:begins July 31, 2020; July 20, 2021; July 10, 2022; June 28, 2023.

1st of Muharram Islamic New Year: Aug 20, 2020; Aug 9, 2021; July 30, 2022; July 19, 2023.

Mawlid an-Nabawi Prophet Muhammad’s birthday: Nov 10, 2019; Oct 29, 2020; Oct 19, 2021; Oct 8, 2022, Sept 27, 2023.

Landline numbers are nine digits long – seven digits prefixed by a two-digit area code: 02 covers northern Jordan, 03 southern Jordan, 05 the Jordan Valley and central and eastern districts, and 06 the Amman area.

Mobile phone numbers are ten digits long – seven digits prefixed by a three-digit code (currently 077, 078 or 079).

Most Jordanians have given up on landlines and instead rely on mobile phones – many people have two, on different networks. To follow suit you can walk into any phone or electronics shop (there are dozens in every town), buy a local SIM card, plug it into your unlocked handset and be up and running with a Jordanian number in minutes, for around JD10. Topping up with scratchcards (buyable everywhere) is straightforward. Calling and texting off a local number is very inexpensive – much cheaper than roaming from your home network. Basic handsets can be purchased for perhaps JD20–30.

Smoking is banned in public places, including airports, museums and on public transport. However, enforcement is minimal and in effect it’s impossible to escape cigarette smoke anywhere in the country.

Jordan is usually two hours ahead of London, seven hours ahead of New York and eight hours behind Sydney. Daylight Saving Time operates from the last Friday in March to the last Friday in October.

Emergencies

Police T911

Ambulance T199

Traffic accidents T190

Phoning home

To the UK T0044

To the Republic of Ireland T00353

To the US or Canada T001

To Australia T0061

To New Zealand T0064

To South Africa T0027

Calling Jordan from abroad

First dial your international access code (00 from the UK, Ireland and New Zealand; 011 from the US and Canada; 0011 from Australia), followed by 962 for Jordan, then the Jordanian number excluding the initial zero.

In a good restaurant, even when a service charge is included, it’s customary to round the bill up slightly as well. Low-budget local diners don’t expect tips and will never press you for anything. In most everyday situations a half-dinar tip (ie JD0.50) is a perfectly satisfactory indication of your appreciation for a service, such as a hotel porter loading your bags onto a bus or taxi. Taxi drivers deserve ten percent of the meter charge; if a driver has spent half a day shuttling you from place to place, JD5–10 is in order. An appropriate tip for a bellboy in a four- or five-star hotel who brings your bags up to your room is JD1.

The Jordan Tourism Board, or JTB ( visitjordan.com ), part affiliated to the Ministry of Tourism and part private, publicizes the country’s tourist assets abroad under the Visit Jordan brand. It is very active on Twitter, Facebook and other social media. In most countries, the account for handling promotion of Jordan is awarded to a local PR company, so contact details can, and do, change.

visitjordan.com Jordan’s official tourism portal.

kingabdullah.jo Detailed features on history, the royal family, politics and tourism.

jordantimes.com Leading English-language newspaper.

wildjordan.com Excellent information on Jordan’s nature reserves.

www.nomadstravel.co.uk For climbing and trekking enthusiasts.

maani.us/jordan Superb “Field Guide to Jordan”: download their app or buy the book.

jmd.gov.jo Weather forecasts and climate data (Arabic only).

Jordan makes few provisions for its own citizens who have limited mobility, and this is reflected in the negligible facilities for tourists. The best option is to plump for an organized tour; sightseeing is liable to be complicated enough – leaving the practical details to the professionals will take a weight off your mind. Throughout the country, pavements are either narrow and broken or missing altogether, kerbs are high, stairs are ubiquitous and wheelchair access to hotels, restaurants and public buildings is pretty much nonexistent. Hotel staff and tourism officials, although universally helpful, are generally poorly informed about the needs and capabilities of tourists with limited mobility. Travelling with an able-bodied helper and being able to pay for things like a rental car (or a car-with-driver) and good hotels will make things easier.

All Jordan’s ancient sites are accessible only by crossing rough and stony ground. Scrambling around at Jerash or Karak is hard enough for those with full mobility; for those without, a visit represents a major effort of energy and organization. Petra has better access: with advance planning, you could arrange to rent a horse-drawn cart to take you from the ticket gate into the ancient city, from where – with written permission obtained ahead of time from the tourist police – you could be picked up in a car and driven back to your hotel.

Children are universally loved in Jordan, and travelling with your family is likely to provoke spontaneous acts of kindness and hospitality from the locals.

Children are central to Jordanian society – many couples have four or five, and double figures isn’t uncommon. Middle-class extended families tend to take pleasure in spoiling kids rotten, allowing them to stay up late and play endlessly, but as a counterpoint, kids from low-income families can be seen out on the streets at all hours selling cigarettes. The streets are quite safe and even very young children walk to school unaccompanied.

Only the cheapest hotels will bar children; most will positively welcome them (with deals on extra beds or adjoining rooms), as will all restaurants, although discounts may have to be negotiated. There are a few precautions to bear in mind. Foremost is the heat: kids’ sensitive skin should be protected from the sun as much as possible, both in terms of clothing (brimmed hats and long sleeves are essential) and gallons of sunblock. Heatstroke and dehydration can work much faster on children than on adults. Sunglasses with full UV protection are vital to protect sensitive eyes. Kids are also more vulnerable than adults to stomach upsets: you should definitely carry rehydration salts in case of diarrhoea. Other things to watch out for include the crazy traffic (especially for British kids, who’ll be used to cars driving on the other side of the road), stray animals that may be disease carriers, and jellyfish and poisonous corals off Aqaba’s beaches.

Children will love riding camels in Wadi Rum, and even Petra’s threadbare donkeys may hold an appeal. Most of the archeological sites will probably be too rarefied to be of more than passing interest (aside, possibly, from exploring towers and underground passages at Karak, Shobak or Ajloun castles); spotting vultures, ibex and blue lizards at Dana or Mujib may be a better bet, and the glass-bottomed boats at Aqaba are perennial favourites. Children born and brought up in urban environments will probably never have experienced anything like the vastness and silence of the open desert, and you may find they’re transfixed by the emptiness of Wadi Rum or the eastern Badia.

No immunizations or vaccinations are required before you can enter Jordan. However, before you travel, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re up to date with immunizations against hepatitis A, polio, tetanus (lockjaw), tuberculosis and typhoid fever. You should consult a doctor at least two months in advance of your departure date, as there are some immunizations that can’t be given at the same time, and several take a while to become effective.

Australia & NZ

Dehydration.

An adult should normally drink two litres of water a day; from day one in the Middle East, you should be drinking at least three litres – and, if you’re exerting yourself in hot conditions, more than double that. It’s a matter of pride among the desert bedouin not to drink water in front of foreigners, but if you copy them you’re likely to make yourself ill. Drinking to quench your thirst just isn’t enough in a hot climate: you must drink well beyond that if you’re to head off lethargy and splitting headaches. Alcohol and caffeine exacerbate the effects of dehydration.

Heat exhaustion and sunstroke

The Jordanian sun can be scorchingly intense, and – obvious though it sounds – you should do all you can to avoid sun exposure, especially if you’re travelling in high summer (May–Sept). Head protection is essential. Lightweight 100 percent cotton clothes – such as long-sleeved shirts, and long trousers or ankle-length skirts – will allow air to circulate close to your skin to keep you cool and limit both sunburn and dehydration. If you feel very hot, dizzy and faint but aren’t sweating, you may have sunstroke: get out of direct sun and into air conditioning and/or cold water as soon as possible. Call a doctor if symptoms worsen.

Travellers’ diarrhoea

If you arrive in Jordan directly from the West (or Israel), give your stomach a chance to acclimatize: avoid street food for a few days and spend a little extra to eat in posher, but cleaner, restaurants. Every eating place, from the diviest diner upwards, will have a sink with soap for washing your hands. Nonetheless, few travellers seem to avoid diarrhoea altogether. Instant recourse to drugs such as Imodium or Lomotil that plug you up (in fact, what they do is paralyse your gut) is not advisable; you should only use them if you absolutely must travel (eg if you’re flying). The best thing to do is to wait, eat small amounts of dry food such as toast or crackers if you feel able and let it run its course, while constantly replacing the fluids and salts that you’re flushing away. Maintaining fluid intake (even if it all rushes out again) is vitally important. Oral rehydration solutions such as Dioralyte or Electrosol are widely available worldwide, sold in sachets for dissolving in a glassful of clean water. They’re marketed as being for babies, but will make you feel better and stronger than any other treatment. If you can’t get the sachets, make up your own solution with one heaped teaspoon of salt and twelve level teaspoons of sugar added to a standard-sized (1.5-litre) bottle of mineral water. You need to keep downing the stuff, whether or not the diarrhoea is continuing – at least a litre of the solution per day interspersed with three litres of fresh water. Bouts of diarrhoea rarely last longer than 24–48 hours.

If it goes on for longer than four days, seek medical advice. Nasty but easily treatable diseases such as giardiasis and amoebiasis must be tested for by a stool examination. If there is blood in your diarrhoea, you’ve most likely got dysentery and must see a doctor.

Bites and stings

Malaria is not present in Jordan, though mosquitoes and sandflies are. Snakes are frightened of humans; if you walk slowly and noisily, any snakes present will slither away. To avoid tangling with scorpions and spiders never walk barefoot, and if you’re camping always shake out your shoes and clothes before wearing them.

Treatment in Jordan

Every town has a pharmacy ( saydaliyyeh ), generally staffed by fluent English-speaking professionals trained to Western standards. Unless you’re obviously a hospital case, this is where you should head first, since a pharmacist charges nothing for a “consultation”, and can either prescribe a remedy on the spot or refer you to a local doctor. If you’re given a medicine, find out explicitly from the pharmacist what the dosage is, since printed English information on the box might be sketchy.

If you need a doctor ( doktoor ), ask your embassy to recommend one or check first with a pharmacist. All doctors are trained in English, many in hospitals in the UK or US. If you’re in real trouble, aim for the emergency room of a hospital ( moostashfa ) – and call the emergency helpline of your embassy to ask for advice. Consultation fees and medical costs are much lower than back home, but you should still get signed receipts for everything in order to claim money back from your insurance company when you return.

With the widespread use of English in public life, you’ll have good access to news while in Jordan. International newspapers and magazines are on sale, the local English-language press is burgeoning and satellite TV is widespread. The internet is not censored.

Among the region’s conservative and often state-owned Arabic press, Jordan’s newspapers, all of which are independently owned, have a reputation for relatively well-informed debate, although strict press laws – and the slow process of media liberalization – cause much controversy. The two biggest dailies, ad-Dustour (“Constitution”) and al-Ra’i (“Opinion”), are both centrist regurgitators of government opinion; al-Ghad (“Tomorrow”) has a fresher outlook. There’s a host of other dailies and weeklies, ranging from the sober to the sensational. Local news websites abound.

English-language newspapers are widely available from the kiosks in all big hotels and also from some bookshops, as well as online: unlike elsewhere in the region, Jordan does not censor the internet. The International Herald Tribune and most British dailies and Sundays generally arrive one or two days late (JD2 and upwards). Look out for excellent regional papers such as Abu Dhabi’s The National , Beirut’s Daily Star and Cairo’s Al-Ahram Weekly .

For local news in English, the Jordan Times is published daily except Saturdays, featuring national news, agency reports and pro-government comment. Jordan’s citizen journalism website 7iber.com (pronounced hibber – it means “ink”) runs a more enticing mix of stories in Arabic and English, as well as useful what’s-on information. One key local news blog is black-iris.com , while w BeAmman.com collates news, reviews and opinions about life in Jordan’s capital city.

There’s a lively market for Jordanian magazines, with a range of English-language monthlies including quirky JO, mixing lifestyle features with investigative reporting on social and environmental issues, glossy Living Well , and sober Venture and Jordan Business . Plenty of international magazines are available, from Cosmopolitan to The Economist .

TV and radio

Jordan TV isn’t up to much. Almost all hotels have satellite TV, featuring CNN , BBC World News , Al Jazeera English , plus a few movies and sitcoms in English, alongside dozens of Arabic, European and Asian channels.

As well as stations devoted to Quranic recitation, local news, phone-ins, contemporary pop and old-time crooners, Amman has several English-language music radio stations playing Western hits, including Sunny 105.1 and Play 99.6.

Top image: King Abdullah Mosque in Amman Jordan © kravka/Shutterstock

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• The Ultimate Jordan Travel Guide for First Time Visitors

Jordan was my first trip to the Middle East and it quickly became one of my all-time favorite destinations!

This country really has it all: if you are looking for dramatic landscapes, amazing red sand dunes, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the lowest point on Earth, amazing local food, and friendly people then you have come to the right place!

In this Jordan travel guide, you can find all the information you need to know before visiting Jordan. Let’s get into it!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

How Much Time Do You Need to Spend in Jordan?

Well, this totally depends on you. Many people just want to visit Petra so they are border crossing from Israel for only one day. But Jordan deserves so much more than that! I would suggest planning at least 3-4 full days to have enough time to cover the most famous spots.

Originally I wanted to do the same and while it’s totally doable, I realized I don’t want to rush over the whole country in just a few days. I’ve decided to spend one week in Jordan instead and after having done that I would say this is definitely the best option!

You will have a decent amount of time for the must-see places plus you can include some fun activities and some relaxing time as well.

If you want to spend more than one day in Petra or the Wadi Rum desert, or you want to see some more off-the-beaten places, spending 10 days in Jordan is ideal.

To be honest, even if you would spend 2 weeks there you wouldn’t get bored so it really depends on your own preferences!

Best Time to Visit Jordan

Jordan is a year-round destination, the best time highly depends on what type of activities you’re looking for. It’s important to know that the country may be small, but due to its topography, you can expect different weather conditions across the land.

That means you can experience some rainy and chilly days in Amman but you can work on your tan at the same time in the sunny Aqaba.

Spring (March-May) is one of the best options to visit Jordan. The weather is already pleasant in the mid-20 degrees with lots of sunshine, which is perfect for hiking and sightseeing. Springtime is really magical as the whole country is carpeted with wildflowers, even the desert!

The summer months (June-August) in Jordan are insanely hot and dry, the temperature can easily rise up to 40 degrees. Unless you are planning to chill all day long by the pool, I wouldn’t recommend this time for traveling.

Autumn (September-November) can be another great time for visiting as the temperature begins to drop in mid-September. This time is especially great if you are interested in diving in Aqaba.

The winter in Jordan (December-February) is generally short and cold. The temperature usually drops below freezing in the North and snow is not uncommon either.

All the popular sites will be quite empty so if you want to explore without the crowds and you can bear the cold, winter can still be a good choice for you, especially if you would like to experience Christmas in Jordan .

Visa in Jordan

Every visitor should obtain a visa. It can be purchased at the international airports and most the land borders for 40 JD ($56 US).

However, if you decide to buy the Jordan Pass it already covers the visa and it gives you free access to many sites, including the famous Petra.

The visa fee is waived on the condition that you stay at least 3 nights in Jordan (bad news for border hoppers).

If you are planning to visit Petra I recommend choosing the Jordan Pass. If you would choose to buy the one-day Petra ticket separately, it would cost you 50 JD ($70 US).

You would pay another 40 JD ($56 US) for the visa, so your total cost would be 90 JD ($126 US). The cheapest option of the Jordan Pass is 70 JD ($100 US) and it already includes the visa and a one-day pass to Petra.

You can choose a multiple-day Pass as well if you plan to stay longer in Petra.

Money in Jordan

When I first heard about Jordan I thought it would be a budget destination. I couldn’t have been more wrong about that! Jordan is quite an expensive country, even comparing it to European or American standards.

The official currency is the Jordanian dinar (JD). You can change money at banks, exchange offices or even at some hotels. Most of the major currencies are accepted but it’s easier to change US dollars, Euros, or UK pounds.

The US dollar rates are fixed ( $1 US = 0.7 JD) while the other currencies are subject to the current economical conditions.

I would recommend bringing US dollars to Jordan and then changing it to dinars once you’re there. It’s possible to change dinars back to any foreign currency if you don’t need them anymore.

ATMs are available throughout the country and credit cards are widely accepted. However, there are no ATMs in places like the Wadi Rum desert or Petra and you can only pay with cash in these areas.

We brought $350 US in cash with us and it was enough for the whole week (on top of the credit card payments, of course). We used it mostly in markets, smaller restaurants, and in the desert area.

If you’re interested to know more about the travel costs in Jordan, read my post about how much does it cost to spend one week in Jordan !

How to Get Around in Jordan

Public transportation only exists in bigger cities like Amman. Be aware that the public buses don’t follow a timetable, the bus will only depart once it’s fully loaded with passengers.

They have specific routes but there are no official bus stops. They will stop anywhere once you press the button and you can wave them down anywhere along the road if you want to get on. You can buy your tickets on the bus.

The other option is taking a tourist bus. The Jordan Express Tourist Transportation Company (JETT) operates many tourist buses across the country. They have a fixed schedule and they don’t stop en route.

If you want to travel with them, you have to purchase your ticket in advance. In case you prefer to travel privately, you can also opt for an organized tour or hire a private driver to take care of the transportation issue.

After checking many options we decided to rent a car. To be honest we were a bit afraid of driving in Jordan but as long as you can avoid the bigger cities you’ll be fine.

Most of the time you will be driving through empty highways and mountain roads. There are lots of tricky road bumps and some of the roads could be in better condition.

Oh and don’t be surprised if you find a horde of sheep (or goats) in the middle of the road! It’s just the normal traffic in the Jordan countryside.

Best Places to Visit in Jordan

The rose-colored city of Petra is one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Since Petra is the most interesting site in Jordan you absolutely need to put it on your itinerary!

You can see the vast majority of the ruins in only one day but if you have more time you can easily spend 2-3 days in Petra as well.

The most famous spot is the Treasury, but there are many more interesting sites like the Street of Facades, the Roman Theatre, or the Monastery.

If you’re looking for the best viewpoints in Petra, read my article about how to find the best view of the Treasury !

Where to stay in Petra

LUXURY – Mövenpick Resort Petra

Featuring free Wi-Fi, the 5-star Mövenpick Resort Petra is located directly at the entrance to the ancient city of Petra. The hotel’s rooftop garden terrace offers views of the hills. The spacious rooms feature white linen and bright windows.

MID-RANGE – Infinity Lodge

Set in Wadi Musa, Infinity Lodge offers 3-star accommodation with private balconies. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, room service, and a shared lounge, along with free WiFi. The property offers car hire and features a garden and terrace.

BUDGET – La Maison Hotel

La Maison Hotel is uniquely located in Wadi Musa, a 5-minute walk from the Jordanian world wonder, the Red Rose City of Petra. The hotel offers air-conditioned guest rooms with satellite TVs.

2. Wadi Rum

The Wadi Rum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the southern part of Jordan. This is a huge desert area with the most amazing landscapes you’ll ever see!

If you’re into photography you will absolutely love it. Oh, and it’s definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in Jordan as well!

Try to plan at least a half-day for visiting the desert but if you have more time I would rather recommend spending one full day and a night in the Wadi Rum.

If you want to go all-in, you can even stay at one of the best luxury camps in Wadi Rum .

Where to stay in the Wadi Rum

LUXURY – Wadi Rum Bubble Luxotel

With mountain views, Wadi Rum Bubble Luxotel is located in Wadi Rum and has a restaurant and a 24-hour front desk. Complimentary WiFi is provided. There is a private bathroom with a bidet in all units, along with a hairdryer and free toiletries.

MID-RANGE – Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp

Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp is situated in the heart of the Wadi Rum Protected Area. Guests at the campsite can enjoy a continental breakfast. Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp also offers a children’s playground, Jeep tours, camel rides, and hiking.

BUDGET – Bedouin Nights Camp

Featuring a terrace, Bedouin Nights Camp features accommodations in Wadi Rum. Guests at the camping can enjoy a buffet breakfast. Barbecue facilities are provided and guests can also relax in the garden or in the shared lounge area.

3. Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth and the deepest hypersaline lake in the world. It’s almost 10 times saltier than the ocean, therefore you will rather float than swim in the water.

Trust me, floating in the Dead Sea is a true bucket list experience! Although it’s really fun, there are some things you need to pay attention to. Read my best tips for visiting the Dead Sea for more information!

Where to stay at the Dead Sea

LUXURY – Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa

Located in Sowayma, this 5-star hotel features a fitness center and a private beach area. All guest rooms are equipped with air-conditioning units, WiFi, satellite TV, a safe, and a minibar. If you want to read more about this hotel, check out my  complete review of the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa .

MID-RANGE – Dead Sea Spa Hotel

This 4-star resort in Jordan is situated at the lowest spot on earth. The family-oriented resort has outdoor pools with water slides and a terrace overlooking the Dead Sea. The hotel offers free WiFi.

Amman is the capital city of Jordan. It’s a very modern city with many ancient ruins so it’s definitely an interesting place to visit. Unfortunately, it is often overlooked by tourists but it’s worth spending at least a day there!

Visiting the Citadel and the Temple of Hercules is definitely one of the best things to do in Amman , such as shopping in the bazaars and tasting the local food.

If you’re looking for something off-the-beaten-path and you love cars, you can also pay a visit to the Royal Automobile Museum.

Where to stay in Amman

LUXURY – Amman Rotana

Located in the central business, social and residential destination, Amman’s new downtown, Al Abdali, Amman Rotana is the first tower hotel in Jordan offering 412 lavish rooms and suites, housed across 50 floors at 189 m high.

MID-RANGE – Amman International Hotel

Situated next to the University of Jordan, this 4-star hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen TV. All rooms at the Amman International Hotel are spacious and come equipped with free Wi-Fi and a private bathroom with a bathtub.

BUDGET – The Cabin

Located in Amman, The Cabin provides air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi. Providing a shared lounge, the property is located within 7 km of the US Embassy.

If you’re looking for the largest and most interesting Roman site in Jordan, you need to put Jerash on your itinerary.

This ancient city is packed with many temples, amphitheaters, columns, and ruined buildings. You can easily visit Jerash from Amman on a day trip so there is no need to stay there.

Aqaba is the only coastal city in Jordan, packed with beautiful beach resorts. The water is always warm and crystal clear which makes it the perfect place for snorkeling or scuba diving.

Unfortunately, if you’re only planning to spend a few days in Jordan you will not have time to enjoy the warm weather in Aqaba.

However, if you’re spending one week in Jordan as I suggested, you can easily plan a full-day snorkeling trip in Aqaba!

Where to stay in Aqaba

LUXURY – Mövenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba

This 5-star resort in the center of Aqaba is 500 m from the Red Sea. It features a private beach, several outdoor pools, and 5 food outlets. The rooms at the Mövenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba are bright and furnished with modern décor.

MID-RANGE – Marina Plaza Tala Bay

Situated along the Red Sea shore, this 4-star hotel offers modern rooms with air conditioning and satellite TV. Facilities include Tala Bay Beach Club and outdoor pools and each room is equipped with a private balcony.

BUDGET – Hotel Prestige

550 m from Al-Ghandour Beach, Hotel Prestige is set in Aqaba and features free WiFi, express check-in and check-out, and a ticket service. Boasting family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace.

Planning a trip to Jordan?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Jordan. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• The Perfect Itinerary for Spending One Week in Jordan
• Top 8 Most Instagrammable Places in Jordan
• How to Find the Best Viewpoint in Petra – Treasury From Above
• 10 Tips for Visiting the Dead Sea
• 9 Stunning Dead Sea Hotels in Jordan
• Wadi Rum Glamping: 9 Amazing Luxury Camps to Book
• Hotel Review: Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa

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25 thoughts on “The Ultimate Jordan Travel Guide for First Time Visitors”

Jordan is so high on my bucket list! Your blog post is such an interesting read ?

Thank you so much Lina! Jordan is such an amazing country, I can only recommend visiting!

So much good info here Kristi! I am bookmarking it for when I get to visit Jordan in the future- it looks so beautiful.

Jordan is still one of my favourite travel destinations ever! I’m sure you will love it Charu! 🙂

Jordan is on my list, and I’m so happy to see more than just about Petra. I have obviously always wanted to visit Petra, I mean look at it. But there seems to be so much more to Jordan that if I were to visit I would not want to just border hop, but spend some actual time there. Good to know about some of the costs though, that’s definitely helpful information

Totally agree with you, Jordan is so much more than Petra! I’ve never understood why many people only do a day trip there from Israel when the whole country is so beautiful. I have a full blog post about our Jordan expenses if you’re interested 🙂

The desert has such beauty, with the earth tones and sand dunes. I smiled at your comment that the buses don’t follow a timetable. It’s a different culture than my city life in the US, and that’s one reason it would be so interesting to visit Jordan!

Haha yeah it’s so interesting! It’s really different from Hungary as well and it was such an amazing travel experience!

My parents went here last year but I still haven’t had a chance to visit Jordan yet! I’d love to go someday! Your photos are gorgeous! :]

Thank you Farrah! Jordan is such an amazing country, I can only recommend visiting!

Wonderful post and photos! I had such an amazing time in Jordan!!!

Thank you Charlotte! I really loved it as well 🙂

I would love to visit Jordan! It looks like an amazing country and there are so many beautiful spots! I will definitely use your tips for when I go! Your photos are stunning btw!

Thank you so much Bettina!

I have traveled to the Middle East many times, but never made it to Jordan. This is a very informative and useful guide so I’m going to save it for when we can travel again. Thanks so much for the inspiration and for the STUNNING images!

Thank you so much Michelle, I’m so happy you liked it! Jordan is really great country, it’s still one of my favourite travel destinations ever 🙂

I would love to go back to Jordan! I only got to see the Dead Sea, so it looks like there are so many other places I should explore there!!

I have had Jordan on my top places to visit for a while now and this post just adds to the desire to go. I think I need to spend the full week here. Snorkelling, history and amazing views all in one place – YES PLEASE!!!!

I think one week is the perfect amount of time! We also did a one week trip (I shared our itinerary in another blog post as well) and it was so incredible! 🙂

I never thought about Jerash and Aqaba. Jordan is high on my list. It’s a very useful guide. It will definitely come handy for when I visit.

You’re making me miss this beautiful country!! So many good tips here. I definitely want to go back!

I was supposed to visit Jordan back in 2017 and my friend got really sick and we had to cancel the trip literally the day we were supposed to leave. Ever since, I’ve been absolutely DYING to visit Jordan! I pinned this for when I can finally make that trip 🙂

Omg I’m so sorry to hear about it! Jordan is really amazing, one of my favourite trips ever! I hope you will be able to visit Jordan when we can finally travel again 🙂

Jordan is perhaps my all-time favorite country! I spent almost three weeks there years ago, taking shared taxis everywhere, hitchhiking through the desert, and camping on the beach. I found all the locals to be so friendly and helpful! The one thing I need to go back for is Wadi Rum — didn’t make it there the first time around.

Oh gosh 3 weeks in Jordan – that sounds like a dream! I absolutely loved this country as well and it’s also one of my favourite travel destinations ever 🙂

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Is it safe to travel to Jordan now? Latest Foreign Office advice after Israel declares state of emergency

The escalating situation between israel and hamas has led to travel fears around neighbouring countries.

Seventeen British nationals, including children, are dead or missing in Israel after attacks by Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Palestinian health officials have said 1,200 people have died in Israeli air strikes on the Gaza Strip , while the death toll from the Hamas attack launched at the weekend is also 1,200, Israeli officials say.

Rishi Sunak said the UK Government was ready to support any British citizens in need of help, telling broadcasters: “I know there will be families who are anxious about their loved-ones in the region.

“I want to reassure them we’re doing everything we can, working very closely with the Israeli authorities to establish what is happening on the ground, provide support to people where it’s needed.

“I’d urge anyone there to contact the Foreign Office so that they have their details, follow the advice locally from the Israelis but also from the Foreign Office, and we stand ready to support everyone as best we can.”

The escalating situation between Israel and Palestine has led to fears over travelling to and around neighbouring countries. Here is the latest advice for Jordan, and what its regime has said about the conflict.

Is it safe to travel to Jordan?

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is not currently advising against travel to Jordan relating to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Labour urges Government to publish legal advice on Israel

However, it advises against all but essential travel to within three miles of Jordan’s border with Syria .

The FCDO said around 25,967 British nationals visited Jordan in 2021, and that most visits are trouble-free.

However, it adds: “Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Jordan. There have been a number of incidents since 2016, some serious.

“Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreigners, particularly hotels, shopping malls and tourist sites. You should take extra care, and in the event of an incident, follow the advice of the Jordanian authorities.”

Jordan’s King Abdullah said on Sunday that there was a need to intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent escalating Israel-Palestinian violence with “dangerous repercussions” for the region’s security.

He added that contacts with regional and international parties were underway to discuss “urgent international action to avoid an escalation and prevent the region from the consequences of a new round of violence”.

Is it safe to travel to Israel?

The FCDO is advising against “all but essential travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories”, and against all travel to the following locations:

• The Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar;
• Within 500m of the border with Lebanon (the “Blue Line”) east of Metula, including the northern edge of the town;
• Within 500m of the border with Syria (the “Alpha Line”);
• The area close to the border with Gaza that includes: south-west of Ashkelon, and south of route 35 and west of route 40 as far as Tlalim, not including Be’er Sheva.

The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country, meaning international borders could close at short notice.

Anyone currently in Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories is advised to register their presence with the FCDO here . It can then share important updates with you, including information to support you to leave the country.

Despite the warnings, the UK is not currently planning to follow other European nations in evacuating citizens from Israel.

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The Right Jordan Itinerary For You

March 22, 2022

Plan your perfect Jordan itinerary and enter a world of swirling red sand, ancient cities, stargazing skies and stories that will last several lifetimes. Pull up a chair, grab some cardamom coffee and let’s walk you through our Jordan travel guide.

Table of Contents

Finding The Right Jordan Itinerary for You

I love travel in Jordan. There, I’ve said it. I love the swirling red desert sand, the stargazing at night, and the dates and pomegranates at open markets. I love the raspberry ripple stone canyons of Petra, the childlike joy of floating in the Dead Sea and the philosophical power punch of visiting holy sites from long ago. But most of all, I love the welcome from people.

Through tea, sumac and spice, I’ve enjoyed this Middle Eastern country so much that I go back time and again. 

But when planning my first trip to Jordan, I didn’t know where to start. Jordan’s position in the Middle East means that a little planning is required when putting together your Jordan itinerary.

So here’s my guide to do just that. You can find all the more atmospheric stories about visiting Jordan over here and a guide to visiting the best places in the Middle East here.

In the meantime, let’s plan your itinerary for Jordan.

Jordan Itinerary At a Glance

• Arrive Amman
• See Amman and Jerash
• Explore Wadi Rum
• Hike through Petra
• Visit Kerak Castle and the Dead Sea
• See Mt Nebo, the Madaba Mosaics and Bethany Beyond the Jordan
• Head back to Amman

Jordan Itinerary Google Map

Jordan: one of the most interesting countries on earth…

Disclosure – I have travelled to Jordan many times, now, in partnership with Visit Jordan and Globus Travel on occasion. As ever, as always, I keep the right to write what I like here on the Lab. Otherwise, what’s the point? Also, if you book or buy through any of the links on this page then I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Cheers!

Why Visit Jordan

Where do I begin?! Jordan has not one, not two, not three but many more world class places that stand head and shoulders above the highlights of many other countries. 

First, and perhaps most famously, there is Petra. This hidden city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, buried in the rocks, was “rediscovered” by the world in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt . But local Bedouin had known about it, of course, for all this time. The view of the Treasury may be the most famous image of Jordan, but the Nabatean city extends for miles behind that. 

Then there is the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, with a saline concentration so high you can float on its waters. 

Jordan straddles part of the ancient Holy Land and so you can visit the site where Jesus was baptised, according to archaeologists and theologists alike, then conduct historical jigsaw puzzles with the mosaics of Madaba. 

Wadi Rum, though not as well known, carves deep red dunes into the camel stone of the desert. It is powerfully, poignantly beautiful. 

Then you have ancient Roman ruins, the oldest continuously inhabited city on earth, a range of fresh and flavoursome Jordanian food and a modern city with modern women running businesses from their home.

Phew. And do you know what else? I’m actually only getting started. Read about the best things to do in Jordan over here.

Now, let’s roll our sleeves up and get talking about practical travel tips for Jordan and work out how to plan the perfect Jordan itinerary for you!

How long do you need to visit Jordan?

You can comfortably hit the main sights with either a 7 day Jordan itinerary or a 10 day one. Of course, as a big supporter of slow travel and as someone who absolutely loves travel in Jordan, the longer the better if you can. More time will give you more opportunities to meet local people, hike off the beaten track and sample more of the food on offer.

But if time is tight, as it usually is, then you can still see a lot within a 7 day Jordan itinerary. 

Should you join a group or go it alone?

Should you travel independently or join a tour?

Ah, that’s a big question. Again, as a passionate supporter of independent travel in general, there are a few things to bear in mind about travel in Jordan. 

The first is the language barrier. In the popular tourist spots in the capital Amman and in the big resorts at the Dead Sea, Petra and Aqaba, you will find enough people who speak English to get by. 

However, in more rural areas, and even in other popular spots like Wadi Rum, you will find that without speaking Arabic, it’s going to be difficult to work out what to do. Even if you blunder through to success (another method I enjoy on occasion) you will miss out on conversations with people, and that’s a shame because meeting new people is one of the best things to do in the Middle East. 

With a tour, you will be travelling with a guide and interpreter and can learn much more about how Jordanian society works and interact with people more easily. 

The second issue to consider involves the borders with Jordan’s neighbours. Jordan borders Iraq, Syria, Israel and Saudi and these are all borders with geopolitical significance – and often military guards. While Jordan itself is a very safe country to travel through, a blunder onto the wrong side of a border with the wrong paperwork is not a safe situation to find yourself in. 

For these two reasons, I’d highly recommend travelling with a guide, at least outside the capital of Amman. 

Globus Jordan Escape group walking through downtown Amman

Should you join a group trip?

So, onto the next question. Should you hire a private guide and driver? Or join a group tour?

Let’s talk about the pros and cons of joining a group tour, based on my recent trip to Jordan with Globus Escapes.

• You save an enormous amount of time! Calculating drive times, checking opening times, coordinating permits and border permissions, booking hotels, comparing rates, looking for parking, checking visas, checking safety recommendations. Sheesh! When someone does all that for you, you save a lot of time. 
• You get company! Sure, you’re unlikely to become best friends with everyone, but in a group of more than about six people, you’re bound to find someone you like. I’ve made lifelong friendships from people I met travelling. Plus, even with more casual acquaintances, it’s nice to have people to meet at breakfast, to look after your bags and, well, in general look out for each other.   
• You get access to things that are difficult to arrange on your own.  This partly depends on the company (and I’ve travelled with some bad ones!) But Globus really made the effort to take us to places that would be difficult on your own. Sustainable travel places, like the Bait Khairat Souf and a family homestay meal in Wadi Musa. Not all of these excursions are included in the tour price but it was always clear in advance when that was the case. And they were all absolutely worth it.
• You get access to rich background information. Travel on your own and you’re with your own thoughts for the journey. Travel with Globus and you have a local guide filling you in on the background of the country, from how to tie the keffiyeh headscarf to deciphering marriage traditions, from bellydancing to mineral exports and everything in between. Do make sure this is the case, though. I have travelled with other tour companies where the guide is an enthusiastic fellow traveller just reading material from a worksheet. Globus always uses professional local guides.
• You get help if things go wrong. This is priceless. Especially during coronavirus times. Not only do you have access to someone who can speak the local language right in front of you but they also know the country and how it works. In our group alone, our guide tracked down lost electronics, sorted out health problems and provided advice for border crossings.
• Your interpreter can help you get to know people. One of the best things about the Middle East, or perhaps travel in general, is meeting people from different backgrounds to you. But that’s hard to do, sometimes, when you can’t speak the language. Having a Globus guide, for example, meant I could ask away and connect on a deeper level.
• You get off to the right start. I never fail to enjoy the treat of someone meeting me at the airport. In Jordan, with Globus, they meet you before you pass passport control and help with your visa application as well. Then, instead of haggling with waiting taxi drivers and wondering whether or not you’re being ripped off, you simply step into your waiting transport and are whisked off to your comfortable hotel. A great start to a journey. 
• It’s much less stressful. T his point really builds on all the others. But you know that if something goes wrong while on the trip, it’s not your problem alone to fix it. You know that you are travelling with professionals who know the area and the language. If you get caught up in traffic, they will know the short cut and be able to call ahead to say you’re running late. If something worse happens, well, again, you have backup. It’s liberating.
• You can have some down time. Shhh. This is a bit of a strange one but I’ll say it anyway. When you travel with a private guide, there’s often a social expectation that you are both chatting all the time, which can start to feel a little awkward. Sometimes, it’s nice to be able to give your mind a break or close your eyes on long journeys. When you travel on a group tour, you can drift in and out of conversations, giving your mind some much needed rest.
• The size of the group makes some thing difficult. The more people there are, the longer the toilet breaks take, and the same for shopping trips, photo stops, snacks and everything else. Groups can’t visit small eateries and it’s harder to initiate authentic interactions with local people with a group of 30 behind you. Plus, if decisions go to a vote, chances are you won’t get your first choice. That’s just the way democracy works!
• If you miss something, you miss it. T ravel on your own and if you feel unwell, you can often pause and try again the next day. With a group, there’s no chance for that. The group moves on and you have to rejoin them when you can. 

Having said all that, you can easily overcome many of the cons with a little initiative. You can peel off to arrange some meals on your own or leave the main tour to pick up a smaller one, if you wish. With Globus, we did this in Wadi Musa near Petra. A smaller group of us left the buffet one evening to dine in a family home. The next morning, we hired a guide to hike a different route into Petra. The key lies in good communication so that the rest of your group aren’t left confused and hanging around!

If you decide not to book through a group trip, then check out the Jordan Pass. I t may help you arrange your sightseeing.

Osama: fabulous guide

Travel in the off season, beat the crowds…

The Globus Escapes Concept

• Escapes by Globus have a genius idea: they take place during the off season. This way, you avoid temperature extremes, are less likely to be jostling nose to armpit with crowds of tourists and, yes, the tours cost less as prices are lower in the off season.
• This was my first experience of a Globus Tour but I found myself travelling with many, many people who had travelled with them before and who had booked this trip just as soon as they’d got home from their last Globus adventure.
• Our guide, Osama, was outstanding in his level of knowledge, degree of helpfulness and, crucially, sense of humour and joie de vivre.
• Our group was mostly 40 plus and for those travelling solo, they waive the single supplement.

Bookmark these Jordan travel itineraries and this Jordan travel guide on Pinterest to read later.

Your 7 day Jordan Itinerary

This Jordan itinerary is based on the Jordan Globus Escapes plan. I’ve mentioned some extras that you can add in along the way and at the end, I’ve offered some alternative 10, 8, 5 and 3 day Jordan itineraries. 

Day One – Jordan Itinerary

Arriving in Amman…

 Arrival into Amman

Amman is a bewitching city, with its ochre-white walls and calls to prayer mixing with trendy coffee shops, design, art and innovation. It’s not the most beautiful capital in the world but it is one of oldest: the Ghazal figures at the Citadel museum mark  the oldest representation of people in the world. 

If you arrive early and have time to spare, then you can find an easy introduction into life in Jordan by wandering along the coffee shops and restaurants on internationally minded Rainbow Street. But if you’ve had a long flight, take it easy on yourself on day one. Rest and save your energy for later.

Where to sleep : The Kempinski Hotel Amman

• Try a daytime meal at the eco-conscious Wild Jordan and enjoy the view across to the Citadel.

Day Two – Jordan Itinerary 

Amman & jerash.

Now we’re getting started! Spend the morning travelling back to the past in Amman. ( See also more ideas for Amman here. )

Remains of Hercules at the Amman Citadel

The Amman Citadel

If you want to feel young, head to the citadel. Perched on one of the seven hills or jabals in Amman, this dry and dusty place has seen civilisations come and go like waves on a shore. First was the Neolithic period, then the bronze age. The Ammonites, neo-Assyrians, neo-Babylonians, Ptolemies, and Seleucids roamed around and that’s all before the Romans arrived in around 100 BCE. 

The temple of Hercules is the site’s most famous set of ruins, the hand elbow and, er, other body part lying unceremoniously in the rust red earth. 

The unassuming museum houses artefacts from throughout time, including the Ghazal figures: mankind’s first artistic representation of himself (or herself, who knows?)

The Old Town

From the solitude and windswept stone of the citadel, head to the warmth and bustle of Amman’s Old Town. If you have your heart set on anything Aladdin-like then here’s your best shot. Piles of spices, hanging fruit, glittering gold in shop windows and fluttering fabric in the breeze. 

• Top tip: try some crumbling, hot and sinful knafeh at Habibah Sweets in the Old town. It’s one of the best things to do in Amman! If I ever start a Jordan travel blog, this will be the very first food entry…

Lunch: Bait Khairat Souf

Now, the Globus Jordan Escape team organised this lunch: it’s not a straightforward place to reach independently. But I’m writing about it here because of three important reasons:

• It disproved my idea that group meals on tours tend to be bland and divorced from local traditions
• The story behind Bhait Khairat is one that deserves to be heard
• The food tasted good!

Set in beautiful gardens, with flowering petals, small fountains and a canopy of green, the Bait Khairat Souf is a women’s cooperative supported by the Queen Al Noor foundation. Food is largely home grown and definitely home cooked and it provides options for local women to develop skills, friendships and economic independence.

There are Roman ruins. And there are Roman ruins. 

Forget the odd mosaic, baths or villa you might find lying around in the UK. Jerash is an entire city. Just 45 minutes from Amman, the columns and colonnades sprawl in a leisurely fashion from Hadrian’s Arch for mile after mile, making it one of the best preserved Greco-Roman ruins in the world. 

And just to make you wonder if you’re losing a grip on reality, you’re also likely to catch a bagpipe show in the amphitheatre. 

Yes, forget everything you ever knew. Bagpipes do actually originate from the Middle East, not Scotland. 

How’s that for an impressive and little known fact?!

Bagpipes: not from Scotland after all…

Nothing breaks through barriers faster than eating and drinking together

Learn to cook at Beit Sitti

Get to work for your evening dinner at the fabulous Beit Sitti cooking class, run in a home by the lovely Maria. I first met Maria ten years ago on one of my earliest assignments. Post Covid, I was thrilled to see that her business had survived and elated when she recognised me the moment I walked through the door. Read more about that story and her delicious Jordanian recipes here.

This experience isn’t part of the standard Globus tour (as all 30 people can’t fit in her house) but you can add it to your Jordan itinerary by heading directly to the Beit Sitti website.

Where to sleep: The Kempinski Hotel Amman

Day Three – Jordan Itinerary

Day three – wadi rum.

On the face of it, a visit to Wadi Rum doesn’t sound all that enticing. You go, you see the desert, you leave. 

Once you go and you see the desert, I’d bet eighteen camels you don’t want to leave. Because it is absurdly beautiful. Richly stunning. Imagine untouched ski slopes rising and falling around you, except replace white snow with burned red sand. Picture the sky a lavender blue and the wheels of the jeep gliding over the landscape, a breath, a sigh of wind in your hair. 

Imagine an undulating kaleidoscope of those blues and oranges and purples, rising and falling, shifting and drifting. Then stop for tea or cardamom coffee in a blood striped tent, the traditional way. 

Yeah. I know what you’re thinking…

Ride camels in Wadi Rum

Of course, you could go all out for tradition and hike your backside up onto a cantankerous camel. Those images may look serene but I can assure you that the reality is anything but (or butt.)

Yes, dear readers, after years of riding camels across the desert sands in many countries, I can tell you that those days are over. The lurch and swing, the projectile snot, the abrasive hide. 

But, you know. Try anything once etc.

Beyond the sand and the camels, you’ll also find yourself sifting through the complicated legacy of Lawrence of Arabia. Not just a Peter O’Toole movie, the real Lawrence (T.E Lawrence) did indeed exist, befriend the Bedouin and fight against the Turks. But the legacy beyond that is complicated, to say the least. Amid the conundrums, today’s Bedouin take you to see a somewhat questionable  carving of his likeness in the rock.

• Inside tip: make sure your legs are covered if you plan on riding a camel. Just saying…

Dinner in a Bedouin home

Now, depending on who you ask, Bedouin are people who live a nomadic life in the desert. Or those who did until recently but who now have a permanent home but who have maintained the traditions of their communities and people. 

And one of the most moving experiences of the trip was the invitation to dinner in Ameena’s home, with her children and their uncle, Sohaeb. More about that later!

Where to sleep:  the Mövenpick Resort Petra right by the entrance to Petra

The Monastery in Petra

Day Four – Jordan Itinerary 

Petra. This is the jewel in the crown, the sandwich in the picnic, the meat in the sandwich (sorry veggies.) Even before you know what it is, I’ll be you you’ve seen that image of Petra, the face of the Treasury peering between the raspberry ripple rocky gorge. 

Petra is simply outstanding. No matter how many times you visit, you’ll always find something new. It’s like London, only prettier. If a man is tired of London, he is tired of life. If a woman is tired of Petra, she needs to have a word with herself. Basically.

However you plan your itinerary through Jordan, whether through Globus, another tour or through someone else, I would highly recommend this: make sure you rise and fall with Petra. That is, arrive the night before and give your aching, hardworking, unsuspecting muscles the chance to recover by staying the night after as well. 

The site of Petra is huge. Vast. Enormous. Gigantic. In the words of my nursery age daughter, a million, billion years big. 

Even if all you do is walk from the entrance to the Treasury and turn back, you will have walked four kilometres. And missed the point, to be honest. 

The famous approach to the Treasury

Understanding Petra

Petra is an ancient city, built by the Nabateans and extending over 102 square miles. It has columns and colonnades, an amphitheatre, tombs, marketplaces, mysteries and the awe-inspiring Monastery. 

And it has been made more accessible over the years and over my visits. The rough stony approach to the Treasury is now a smooth concrete path. Golf buggies now buzz where horses used to roam. This is great for those with mobility issues. 

For those without, it’s worth pulling on the hiking boots, slapping on the sunscreen and dosing up on your mojo to hike at least to the Monastery. 

It’s hard to provide a sense of just how big the complex is. And it’s definitely worth visiting with a guide, to get a sense of who the Nabateans were.

Petra by night: serenity by candlelight.

Petra by Night

An optional extra to Petra is the evening experience known as Petra by night. Personally, I think it’s utterly beautiful, a constellation of stargazing, candlelight and folk music in front of the majestic Treasury of Petra itself. But for those who expect a blaring, glaring light and sound show, you’ll be disappointed. Read more about my thoughts over here: is Petra at night worth it?

• Inside Tip – When it comes to visiting Petra, Globus Escape has the right idea. When I visited during the summer heat, my lasting memory is of collapsing into bed with black dots battling with stars in my head. And I was ten years younger. Simply put, Petra is best visited in the off season.
• Where to sleep:  the Mövenpick Resort Petra  right by the entrance to Petra

Day Five – Jordan Itinerary

 kerak, wadi majib and the dead sea.

OK, OK. Today you can relax. After a hard day hiking through Petra, the fifth day of this Jordan itinerary sees you spend a recuperating amount of time on the road. (What some inspiration? Check out these fun road trip questions for grown ups. )

But in between watching camels slide by through the window and listening to your guide talk about the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, you will have a few key stops. 

Kerak castle

Everyone who’s heard of Robin Hood, Prince John and Richard the Lionheart has heard of the Crusades, albeit vaguely. But of course, these weren’t the background scene of a Nottingham legend but a real series of conflicts held around the Holy Land in the Middle Ages. 

Kerak Castle helps to put some context into the period, through its dungeons, windswept battlements, stables and broad views of the cream and russet countryside. It’s one of the largest and best preserved castles from the Crusader Period. Built in 1140, it changed hands several times in very many bloody, messy ways. Today, though, it’s a peaceful spot and the restaurant just outside serves beautiful refreshing mint and lemon drinks.

Wadi Majib (or Wadi Mujib) is a deep canyon cuts through rust red rock with a sense of passion and drama. It’s also a hotspot for adventure sports and canyoning (you can have a good laugh at a retro video of a younger me canyoning in Wadi Majib right here.)

On the Globus Jordan itinerary, though, you don’t have to splash yourself through that. You drive down, across, and up the gorge, stopping for photo spots but nothing more arduous.

Then it’s on to the lowest point on earth: the Dead Sea.

The Dead Sea

Glistening between Jordan and Israel, the Dead Sea sits at 427 metres below sea level and, well, is a lake rather than a sea. Despite the off-putting name (it’s the fish who can’t survive, not the people,) it’s become a popular place for spa resorts. Each weekend, Jordanians leave the capital of Amman and head to the Dead Sea, slathering themselves in mud for a youthful complexion and watching a bellydancer for, well, reasons unknown. 

Three times, now, I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Dead Sea and each time has been a blast. There’s something faintly ridiculous, no boldly ridiculous, about covering yourself in mud and bobbing about like a drunken penguin. The high salinity means you can’t sink but you sure as anything can’t swim either. 

Bluntly put, the Dead Sea is a wonder of the world and an absolute must on any Jordan itinerary.

• Where to sleep: the Mövenpick Dead Sea Resort and Spa
• Tip: don’t shave before getting into the Dead Sea. It will sting like crazy! Find out why and uncover some other interesting facts about the Dead Sea over here.

It’s a busy day – you need to move fast!

Day Six – Jordan Itinerary 

Mt nebo, madaba, bethany beyond the jordan.

Today is a busy day. One which spans thousands of years, scales a mountain, views the promised land and, well, puts your feet on the earth where world-changing events took place. 

Wherever you sit on the religious spectrum, there’s absolutely no denying that the events that took place here had monumental, far reaching consequences for the world at large. Consequences that continue to this day. 

Because in just a few square miles, you can stand on the spot where Jesus was baptised and also on the mountain where Moses saw the promised land of Israel. 

If you believe, the significance is obvious. If you don’t, it’s perhaps more powerful to stand and wonder why these places, why these stories achieved the global fame and far reaching consequences that they did. 

And in either case, to visit is to witness a striking contrast to what you see on the news: soldiers chatting in the sunshine on the West Bank. And Muslims and Jews paying to protect sites that matter to Christians. 

But enough chatting. Let’s talk about what you can see. 

His Excellency Rustom Mkhjian, Director of the Baptism Site

Powerful thoughts…

Bethany Beyond the Jordan

We arrived in Bethany Beyond the Jordan in an appropriately biblical downpour of rain. Greeted by the Director of the Baptism Site Commission , His Excellency Rustom Mkhjian, we walked through the archaeological ruins and remains that suggest that this area was the place of ministry for John the Baptist. 

Then you move to the baptism site itself. The place where historians tend to agree was the original baptism site of Jesus, and the pivotal moment where He began His teachings. 

A tiny stream trickles through a cross-shaped grave of mud and the noise sounds livelier and more energetic than it looks. In the Bible, Jesus is baptised in the River Jordan, which is not, of course, this. But experts agree that the river has changed course over the last two thousand years or so and other archaeological remains almost unanimously suggest that this is the place. 

But not entirely unanimously. Just a little way further along, you can visit the Jordan River, which separates Jordan from the West Bank. Various irrigation systems upstream have siphoned off the water, so what sounded like the Hudson or Thames in biblical times is now around the size of a country road.

Still, people attend on both sides for baptism and a beautiful church, resplendent in the breaks of sunshine between the clouds, also celebrates the site.

Madaba: famous for mosaics but there’s more to the story than that

Just along the road in Madaba, the word on the street is mosaics. In fact, the mosaics were the streets in Roman times which, of course, were also the times when Jesus and John the Baptist were roaming around. 

The most famous mosaic in Madaba is the 6th century depiction of the Holy Land in the Greek Orthodox Church of St George. It’s worth visiting, not only for the mosaic, but also to witness the practice of Christianity in a Muslim country. 

Just along the road is the Church of the Virgin Mary, which I missed on my first visit to Madaba (thanks again Globus for the heads up!) 

Inside, you’ll find mosaic after mosaic after mosaic, well, you get the picture. 

But it’s worth seeing them. See why the mosaics of Madaba matter more than you think here.

It gets cold and windy up here!

Sunlight marks the Promised Land…

From the peak of Mt Nebo, God showed Moses the Promised Land of Canaan. And standing on that peak, even amid the wind and rain, the whole idea makes sense. For while we stood battered and smattered by the elements, a golden expanse of sunshine seemed to breathe with ease over the land of today’s Israel. 

Beyond the viewpoint, you’ll find a memorial, a small museum and a covered selection of more mosaics. They are all interesting in their own right but it’s the view from the mountain itself that makes this a world class visit. 

The Dead Sea (again)

In the Globus Jordan itinerary, you head back to the Dead Sea spa for the night because, why not?! It’s fun!

Alternatives would involve travelling back to Amman to cram in a few more city sights before you fly.

• Inside tip: leave all your preconceptions behind. Respect and reverence and an open mind make for getting the best and the most out of this day.

Sad to say goodbye…

Day Seven – Jordan Itinerary

Leave from amman.

Depending on your flight time, you can either spend the day lazing by the side of the Dead Sea… or get up at the crack of dawn to hot foot it to the airport. 

That’s it! Your seven day Jordan itinerary has come to an end. Want more time? Check out the other Jordan itinerary suggestions below…

10 day Jordan Itinerary

With 10 days in Jordan, you can expand some of the stops on the 7 day Jordan itinerary but follow the same basic loop of the plan. Spend a night in Wadi Rum, two in Petra and in the warmer months, head further south to Aqaba.

• Explore Wadi Rum – stay overnight
• Hike through Petra and Little Petra – 2 nights in Petra
• Head to Aqaba
• Return via Kerak Castle and the Dead Sea

8 day Jordan Itinerary

For an 8 day Jordan itinerary, follow the outline above but spend one night in Wadi Rum or at the Dana Biosphere Reserve mid trip.

• Explore Wadi Rum 
• Stay in the Dana Biosphere Reserve

5 day Jordan Itinerary

With 5 days in Jordan, time is tight! I’d suggest cutting the Kerak Castle day and combine Petra and Wadi Rum into one day. It will be a squish but you can just about pull it off. 

• Explore Wadi Rum & Petra
• See the Dead Sea, Mt Nebo, the Madaba Mosaics and Bethany Beyond the Jordan

3 day Jordan Itinerary

With only three days in Jordan, instead of a week in Jordan, then something has to go. Head straight from Amman to Petra, then to Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea and then back to Amman to fly home.

• Arrive Amman and head straight to Petra
• See Petra and Wadi Rum
• Back to Amman via the Dead Sea

More options to add to your Jordan itinerary

With more time, you can see more! Here are more details about the activities mentioned above.

Stay overnight in Wadi Rum: Hot air balloon ride in the morning

Once you’ve seen Wadi Rum, you’ll want to stay. At night you can see the stars in a perfectly dark sky. And early in the morning, you can head into the air in a wicker basket, powered simply by raw fire. You can watch my hot air balloon ride in Wadi Rum on YouTube here.

Hit the coast in Aqaba in the south

Jordan may have a small sliver of a coastline but it likes to make the most of it. Aqaba in the south borders the Red Sea, with plenty of rainbow fish to keep snorkellers and divers happy. It’s also a good spot for windsurfing. Bear in mind that winters are cool, however, so plan to visit Aqaba during the warmer months.

Go stargazing in the Dana Nature Reserve 

Hidden in the Dana Biosphere Reserve is one of the most forward-thinking eco lodges in the world. Built on an abandoned archaeological site, you can stargaze at night in a pollution free sky. You can also hike through the reserve or take a driving tour through Roman mines and sit and have coffee and homemade bread with Bedouin people who live on the land. 

It’s a special place to visit and you can read my full account about the Feynan Ecolodge here.

Hike Little Petra

Little Petra, in virtually any other setting, would be big news. Somewhat overshadowed by nearby Big Petra, Little Petra also represents Nabatean city life set in a sandstone canyon. Its name in Arabic is Siq al-Barid, meaning the cold canyon, and it does offer plenty more shade than the bigger version.

Hike the off the beaten track routes in Petra

You could honestly spend a week hiking through the ancient city of Petra. And indeed, that’s what keen hikers do. 

But if you’re not in a position to spend another seven days away from the desk, you can spend one day exploring different parts of the site. You don’t have to join the crowds and walk straight from the visitor centre to the Treasury. With the right guide, you can hike straight to the Monastery, via the back route. Other options include four hour excursions to those stunning viewpoints seen on instagram.

• See also travel tips for how to get off the beaten path.

Fresh oranges and pomegranates hanging in Amman Old Town

Spend extra time in Amman

You could fill 3 days in Jordan with nothing but an Amman itinerary to soak in a sense of the country. In particular, I’d recommend the following highlights:

The Royal Automobile Museum

Car lovers will fall head over heels in love with the Royal Automobile Museum. But the rest of us? It’s more interesting than you may think. Amid the shiny metal and scent of rubber, you’ll find the whole history of the modern state of Jordan told through news archive and, well, automobiles. It’s the first time I’ve seen engineering history combined with humanities and, well, it’s a success!

Ride like a king!

When we left the Royal Automobile Museum, we couldn’t help but notice that our trusty tour bus had been replaced. By a fleet of vehicles from the King’s personal collection, complete with royal guards. They were assembled to take us back to our hotel!

Now, this isn’t something that you can arrange but I mention it because it reminds me of the joys of travel: you really never know what will happen in a day. 

The Iraq Al Amir Women’s Cooperative

Just 20km southwest of Amman, so perfect for a leisurely day trip, you’ll find the Iraq Al Amir Women’s Cooperative. Here, cooking and crafts workshops take place within ten renovated historic farmhouses. They in turn overlook the Qasr Al-Abd archaeological site which dates back to 200BC and the Hellenistic era of Hyrcanus the Tobiad.

This beautiful spot provides home-cooked meals and sells hand crafted ceramics and pressed flowers. 

Lina from Divergent Traveler in the Amman Art Gallery

The Jordan Gallery of Fine Arts

To get a sense of where a nation is right now, you can’t beat visiting a modern art gallery. The Jordan Gallery of Fine Arts curates work from across the Middle East in a series of white, light, beautiful exhibition spaces. It also has a wonderful multicolour balcony space that overlooks the neighbourhood outside (plus a cafe, always good to find coffee.)

As an extra Globus plus, we met with Suhail Baqueen, founder of the Darat Suhail Art Center where he runs the Scent of Color programme. There he pairs colours with scents (pink with rose, lemon with yellow, orange with, well, yes, orange and so on) allowing visually impaired students to create visual art.

Travel in Jordan makes you feel alive!

Frequently Asked Questions About Jordan

Whenever you’re planning a Jordan trip, it’s important to ask yourself the following questions:

When is the best time to visit Jordan?

Summers in Jordan are hot, hot, hot and that heat can feel crushing when you’re spending the day hiking through Petra or beneath the burning desert sun in Wadi Rum. 

Jordan’s most popular seasons, therefore, are spring and autumn: the months of March to May and September to November. During those months, Jordan’s heat has faded but the skies are still a sun kissed golden warm. 

However, there is another time to visit, as I discovered on my Globus Escape. Their Escape tours prioritise travel during the off season when prices are lower and crowds are thinner. And it worked. We saw the beautiful ruined cities of Petra and Jerash with few tourists for company. And the tour prices are, on average, 30% cheaper than during the high season. 

Of course, if you travel in the off season, you need to be aware that it can be cold. It’s unusual but possible for snow to fall on Petra, for example. And exposed places like the top of Mt Nebo and the Citadel in Amman, you will need to wrap up warm with the full works: hat, scarf, gloves, waterproof. 

It’s also a great season for seeing the more authentic side of Jordan. And with fewer tourists around, people are more relaxed and likely to stop and chat. 

What to eat in Jordan

Food is a big, feasting, sharing tradition in Jordan and it comes with plenty of fresh salads, hummus and flat breads. You can read more about Jordanian food here , including recipes, but expect plenty of cardamom coffee, baba ghanoush, rice and meat based dishes like mansaf and the hard white yoghurt of lebneh. 

Vegetarianism is still seen as a quirky curiosity across most of the country but it shouldn’t be too difficult to find meat free options. 

If you’re travelling on a Globus Tour, then most evening meals will involve a buffet in one of the four and five star hotels. This will offer plenty of local options but also some international food, in case the saffron and sumac is getting too much. 

On the other hand, if you’re feeling more adventurous, then you can ask your guide to arrange a home visit or cooking class for you (for an additional charge) in the evening. 

Lunchtimes are a mix between large restaurants that cater for large groups of tourists or off the beaten path co-ops that burst with local traditions and flavours.

If you’re travelling independently, of course, you can choose whichever you wish. Although, bear in mind that some of the cooking classes and home visits rely on personal introductions, often through tour companies, so you may find your options more limited than they first appear.

What about dietary restrictions in Jordan

In general, the Jordanian customs are extremely hospitable and people will try to cater for your needs. That said, it’s still not that common to present vegan, gluten free and lactose free options as a matter of routine. As always, travel with a translated version of what you need to ask about, remain calm and polite and bring your own snacks, just in case.

What to wear in Jordan

It’s natural to be slightly concerned about what to wear in Jordan – and in fact I’m going to write a whole new post about it. 

Certain parts of the country, particularly in the desert, are extremely conservative and there you will see women fully covered with a headscarf and burqa. In Amman, on the other hand, don’t be surprised to see women in skin tight leather trousers and slouchy sweaters with their hair loose. 

So what should you do?

In short, it’s best to wear loose clothes that go down to your wrists and ankles. Girls, it’s handy to have a scarf with you for visiting holy sites (and sheltering from the rain) but other than that, it’s rarely necessary. Keep shoulders and cleavage covered and avoid slits in skirts and dresses.

Is Jordan safe?

In short, yes. While nowhere is perfect, Jordan has had a stable government for many years. The main places that tourists will visit are far from the borders with places in conflict. The police presence is visible and the level of street harassment is very, very low, even from hawkers. As a solo female traveller , I’ve walked around Rainbow Street and Downtown Amman on my own with no trouble at all.

Is it a good idea to travel to Jordan with kids?

Yes and no. While I’m a passionate supporter of family travel and write about plenty of family travel itineraries, there are a few things to bear in mind about Jordan. Firstly, Petra is huge and is best enjoyed by walking around. Secondly, the Dead Sea isn’t fun to splash around in: all that salt hurts! Finally, the desert in Wadi Rum doesn’t have many facilities. It’s part of its beauty but it does make things harder if you’re travelling with very young children. 

If you’re travelling with teens, I would highly recommend a trip to Jordan for your family travel bucket list. But for children younger than 10-12, I would recommend waiting. You’d be fine but you’ll enjoy it a lot more (and so will they) when they are older.

What to pack for Jordan

Don’t fall for the myth that the Middle East is always hot. Even in the summer, temperatures plunge at night in the desert. 

I would recommend packing long sleeve, long legged trousers in cool linens, with some thermals and a lightweight jacket and warmer jacket as well. Make sure you have proper walking shoes of hiking boots for areas outside the city. 

It’s not essential for women to cover their hair but it is really useful to pack a scarf to protect yourself from the sand if it’s windy. 

Don’t forget to pack a travel adapter , your usual medication, chargers and so on. See our ultimate packing checklist here.

What is it like to travel solo in JOrdan?

If you join a group tour, it’s going to be a whole lot of fun. If you don’t speak Arabic and you’re travelling on your own, then it’s going to be intense and quite hard work. It’s a safe country, though, with a tradition of politeness and hospitality. Even the markets feel far calmer and safer than, say, Cairo or Marrakech.

Do you need a visa for Jordan?

Obviously, this depends to some extent on your own passport status. But in general, US and UK citizens can collect a tourist visa upon entry to Jordan and the process is straightforward. Always check properly in advance, though, with your own government. 

How to get to Jordan

Most visitors arrive into Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) in Amman. Flights connect to most of the world’s major hubs, from London Heathrow to New York. The airport is around 45 minutes drive from downtown Amman. While not the most exciting airport in the world, it is clean and well equipped for shopping and eating.

From London, both British Airways and Royal Jordanian fly from London Heathrow. The fastest way to connect from Heathrow to central London is via the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station, the gateway to the west, southwest and Wales. Using the Heathrow Express website in advance, you can book tickets for as little as  £5.50. Plus, children 15 and under travel for free.

How to get around Jordan

The easiest way to get around Jordan, by far, is by car or coach with a dedicated driver. As mentioned above, given the border situation with neighbouring countries, it’s not the best place for a self drive. 

In Amman, you can walk or take a taxi or Uber pretty easily. Public transport options do exist but if your time is short and you’re trying to get through this 7 day Jordan itinerary, then your own wheels make the most sense. 

What currency do you need for Jordan?

Jordanians use the Jordanian Dinar, which equates to around 1 GBP or 0.8 USD. In main hotels and some tourist sites, you can pay in USD but it’s always a good idea to have some local currency on you just in case. ATMs are plentiful and straightforward to use in Amman.

More on Travel in Jordan

See our travel guide to the best things to do in Jordan and then browse through the articles below:

• Jordanian Food: the 21 dishes you need to know
• What is it like to visit Petra?
• Is Petra at night worth it?
• The ecolodge where you can spend a night with the Bedouin
• How the Madaba mosaics show the pathway to peace
• How to create your Jordan bucket list

You may also be interested in this article on the best places to visit in the Middle East.

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Jordan Application

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Jordan Pass Requirements for Citizens of United Kingdom

• Simplified Application Form
• Expert Application Review
• Approved visa or money back

The Jordan Pass for UK citizens is an all-access pass to several tourist attractions in the country, which also includes a Jordan visa.

British citizens can apply for the Jordan Pass completely electronically, without the need to visit an embassy or consulate of Jordan in the United Kingdom.

The pass waives the payment of a Jordan tourist visa fee , as long as the British passport holder’s trip lasts 3 nights or more.

Learn more about the entry requirements, the application process and more details about the Jordan Pass for UK visitors.

Documents Required to Apply for a Jordan Pass from the UK

UK citizens can obtain the Jordan Pass by completing a simple and straightforward online application process .

Before completing the electronic form, travelers from the United Kingdom must meet the following basic entry requirements:

• V alid British passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity
• C urrent email address where all Jordan Pass correspondence, including the pass itself, can be sent
• D ebit or credit card to pay the Jordan Pass fee online

Another key condition for UK nationals is that they should plan at least a 3-night stay in Jordan in order to enjoy the benefit of not having to pay the tourist visa fee.

Allowed ports of entry for UK citizens to use the Jordan Pass

Citizens of the United Kingdom can use their Jordan Pass to obtain a free visa on arrival from the following border checkpoints:

• Queen Alia International Airport (when arriving by air)
• Sheikh Hussein Bridge – Jordan River Bridge (when arriving by land)
• Wadi Araba border – Eilat-Aqaba border (when arriving by land).

Please take into consideration other ports of entry do not issue a Jordan visa on arrival. Brits planning to enter the country at other locations should consider using their Jordan Pass to obtain an embassy visa in advance. Travelers of the UK are advised to check the Jordan visa policy for further information.

What Is a Jordan Pass for British Travelers?

The travel document gives access to over 40 attractions , including a 3-day visit to Petra. In addition to this, the Jordan Pass for the UK waives the payment of the Jordan tourist visa fee. This saves the traveler money and makes it easier to visit the country.

It is important to note that the Jordan Pass is not a visa , and by itself does not give UK tourists entry to the country.

However, the QR code on a Jordan Pass entitles British citizens to claim a Jordan tourist visa free of charge. This is usually a Jordan visa on arrival, but could also be a visa from an embassy if getting the visa on arrival is not an option.

It’s worth mentioning that children below 12 years of age do not need the Jordan Pass to visit tourist attractions in the country. If accompanied by parents or guardians who have the pass, children can visit the tourist sites for free.

Do UK citizens need their passport or ID to visit attractions?

While visiting tourist attractions in Jordan, citizens of the United Kingdom need to present a valid passport or government ID as well as their Jordan Pass. In the absence of these documents, it is necessary to purchase the entry ticket to the attraction.

Since the Jordan Pass for the UK gives access to multiple tourist attractions, it proves to be more economical than purchasing tickets for each tourist attraction.

Do UK citizens need a visa for Jordan?

A valid Jordan visa is required to enter Jordan as a UK citizen, even if travelers have their Jordan Pass.

British visitors can apply for a Jordan visa on arrival (on selected ports of entry) or obtain a traditional visa in their nearest Jordan embassy or consulate.

If they have a Jordan Pass and are planning to remain in the country for at least 3 nights, citizens of the United Kingdom are eligible to request a Jordan tourist visa for free (price already included in the payment of the Jordan Pass).

For further information, visitors are invited to check the visa requirements for UK citizens when traveling abroad.

Application Process to Obtain a Jordan Pass as British Tourist

Applying for a Jordan Pass from the United Kingdom is quick and simple. You must complete an electronic application form, which includes the following fields that need to be filled out:

• Personal details : Full name, date of birth, gender, country of residence and citizenship
• Passport data : Number, issuance date, and expiry date
• Contact information : Email address, phone number, and home address

The last step to complete the Jordan Passport application as a UK national is to pay the processing fee with a debit or credit card. This includes the cost of a Jordan visa for Brits, saving the applicant money on travel costs as well as entry fees to tourist attractions.

The whole process does not take more than 20 minutes.

Processing time for Jordan Pass from the UK

Obtaining a Jordan Pass from the United Kingdom does not take long. The usual processing time is 1 to 2 business days . Therefore, British passengers can expect to receive an email within 48 hours with the Jordan Pass in an attached document and in PDF format .

Citizens of the United Kingdom should submit their application at least a few days ahead of their trip to Jordan in order to avoid any delays and last-minute inconveniences. Please remember that a visa is also required (this can be obtained upon arrival at border control).

What Is the Validity of a Jordan Pass for British Applicants?

British passport holders can visit the country with a Jordan Pass any time within the next 12 months after applying.

The Pass can be used for 2 weeks after visiting the first tourist attraction in Jordan.

The Jordan Pass entitles the holder to a free single-entry tourist visa. Citizens of the United Kingdom can use this visa to stay in Jordan for a period not exceeding 30 consecutive days

Important Jordan Visa Information for Citizens of UK

When you are leaving the country, the Jordan border authorities will require the Jordan Pass and other travel documents, such as the Tourist Visa for Jordan and the British passport.

This procedure is meant to check whether visitors from the United Kingdom have complied with the established minimum and maximum stay in the country.

If the 3-night minimum stay to waive the price of the tourist visa is not met, British citizens will need to pay the fee before exiting the country .

Application Steps

Country policy.

Browse the Jordan visa policy to learn about travel requirements for the Kingdom for your nationality.

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Do I Need a Visa to Visit Jordan?

Depending on your country of residence, you may or may not need a pre-arranged visa for Jordan. In general, however, most international visitors require a visa in order to enter Jordan, but many nationalities can obtain the visa on arrival. Luckily, obtaining a visa to Jordan whether or pre-arranged, or on-arrival is a relatively simple process. Depending if you are entering Jordan via the Queen Alia Airport or at one of the land border, the visa rules may differ so it is important to always check in advance.

Read our full list of incoming flights for both Amman’s airport and Aqaba’s .

What countries are exempt from Visas to Jordan?

If you hold a passport from one of the following countries, a visa is not required to enter Jordan and you are able to visit for up to 3 months receiving a visa on arrival.

• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates
• European Countries: All European countries except Albania and Moldova are eligible to get a visa to Jordan on arrival
• North American Countries: All North American countries except Belize and Cuba are eligible to get a visa to Jordan on arrival
• South American Countries: All South American countries except Columbia are eligible to get a visa to Jordan on arrival

Do I need to pre-arrange a visa to Jordan?

If you are from one of the following countries, you are not eligible for a visa to Jordan on arrival. You must pre-arrange a visa directly with the Jordanian Embassy in your home country.

Where can I get a visa to visit Jordan?

Those who are visiting Jordan for less than one month can obtain a single entry visa upon arrival at the airport. Visitors can get this visa at all airports in Jordan as well as the Jordan/Israel border for those traveling from Israel by land. Those crossing at the Wadi Araba /south border or Allenby/King Hussein Bridge should check with their tour operator first as these borders do not provide visas on arrival.

Types of Visa for Jordan

There are a number of different types of visas for Jordan depending on how long you are planning to stay and how many times you are planning to re-enter the country.

Transit Visa

Those who are traveling through Jordan and plan to spend less than 24 hours in the country are exempt from visa fees. Transit visas are issued at the Jordanian airports upon arrival. Make sure you tell the passport control that you are a passenger in transit.

Single Entry Visa to Jordan

This visa can be obtained at Jordanian airports upon arrival. Visitors on a single entry visa can only enter Jordan for up to one month and must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months. A single entry visa costs around 40 JD (56 USD).

Double Entry Visa to Jordan

This visa allows visitors to stay in Jordan for up to three months from the date of issue. These visas should be purchased in advance via your local Jordanian embassy. A double entry visa to Jordan costs around 60 JD (85 USD).

Multiple Entry Visa to Jordan

This visa entitles you up to 6 months in Jordan with multiple entries. The visa costs 120 JD (170 USD).

Entry Requirements to Visit Jordan

Passports should be valid for a minimum of 6 months upon arrival to Jordan. Always make sure your passport is up-to-date before you travel. Visitors who intend to stay in Jordan for more than 30 days as a resident or a long-term visitor will require an HIV test and certificate.

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The Ultimate Jordan Travel Guide & Itinerary: What To See & Do In Jordan

Located in the heart of the Middle East, Jordan is a bite-sized country which packs a serious punch. It is home to a huge variety of landscapes and cultural sites including stunning desert scenery, an abundance of historical treasures and the lowest point on Earth.

In one visit you can tick off multiple bucket list experiences such as visiting the ancient city of Petra, floating in the Dead Sea and hiking through the remote Wadi Rum desert. And don’t even get me started on the friendly locals and delicious food!

My time in Jordan was nothing short of incredible, this country has taken a special place in my heart and I would go as far as saying it is one of my favourite destinations in the world. I hope that this in depth Jordan travel guide and itinerary gives you all the information you need to have an action packed and immersive trip to Jordan. Happy planning!

The Practicalities:

How to get there  .

There are regular flights from the UK to Amman, the capital of Jordan, a great place from which to start your trip around the country.

How Long To Go For?  

Jordan is a small country so the highlights could be covered in a 5-7 day trip. However, if you don’t want to be rushing then I highly recommend 10 days to get the full Jordanian experience.

When To Visit?  

March to May is the ideal time to travel to Jordan if you’re going to be hiking, as wildflowers will be starting to bloom across the Northern landscapes. If you want to go later in the year, October is a great option, as it is after the summer heat but before the chilly winter weather hits.

How To Get Around?  

The public transport system in Jordan is  very  limited, so I highly recommend using a rental car to get around the country. If you don’t feel comfortable on the roads you can hire a private driver, but this comes at a large expense.

Is It Expensive?  

A trip to Jordan can be adapted to most budgets. If you stay in low cost hotels and enjoy food from local cafes you can save some serious cash – our lunch most days was about £1-2 for a simple falafel wrap. However, if you choose to dine at more luxurious tourist restaurants you will be paying higher prices. Beware that as it is a muslim country, alcohol is very expensive in Jordan.

Is it Safe?  

I felt extremely safe the whole time I was exploring Jordan. The people are some of the most welcoming and helpful I have met on my travels. Just exercise common sense and be vigilant, as you would be travelling anywhere in the world. 

What Should I Wear? 

Jordan is a conservative country so dress appropriately. As a woman, when you’re in towns, villages or busy places it is respectful to cover your knees, shoulders, back and chest. However, if you’re out hiking in the wilderness away from the locals then it is acceptable to wear shorts and sleeveless tops due to the heat. 

How Can I Travel Responsibly? 

Water is extremely scarce in Jordan, ensure you take short showers and turn off taps while brushing your teeth. Eat at locally owned restaurants and enjoy Arabic cuisine. Reduce your plastic consumption as much as possible as there is no recycling system  at all  in Jordan. Do not ride camels or donkeys, they are often abused.

Travel Tips:

• Language : The language is Arabic but most locals you encounter will speak some basic English.
• Currency : The local currency is Jordanian Dinar, ensure you bring cash as well as cards.
• Plug sockets : These vary across the country, so it is wise to bring a universal converter. 
• Visa : UK citizens must purchase a tourist visa on arrival at the airport in Jordan (for 40 dinar).
• Jordan Pass:  If you plan on visiting multiple attractions in Jordan then it may make sense to purchase the Jordan Pass, which also absorbs the cost of your tourist visa.
• Ramadan : Take care when travelling during Ramadan as this means many local cafes and restaurants won’t be open during daylight hours.
• Phone Data : Purchasing a SIM card at the airport on arrival is a great idea if you want to be able to make local calls and use data. Zain is the main provider with the best coverage. 
• Tipping : Tipping is a big part of the service culture in Jordan, be sure to carry cash for this.

Suggested 10 Day Jordan Travel Guide and Itinerary:

Day 1: Amman 

Day 2: Day Trip From Amman To Jerash

Day 3: The Dead Sea & Ma’In Springs

Day 4: Dana

Day 5: Dana

Day 6: Petra

Day 7: Petra

Day 8: Wadi Rum

Day 9: Wadi Rum

Day 10: Travel back to Amman

What To See & Do:

It is well worth spending a day in the capital city of Jordan. It is busy, bustling and a little chaotic but that’s why I loved it. My time there felt authentic and immersive. Don’t miss these sights:

• The Citadel . Located on top of Jabal Al Qala’a hill, this historic site also offers great views over the city. Hire a local guide on arrival to get the most out of the experience.
• The Roman Amphitheatre . With a seating capacity of 6000, don’t miss this impressive ancient theatre. Climb up to the top for incredible views over the region.
• Souq Alias Market . Explore the city’s souk for an assault on the senses with smells, colours and noises galore. You could get lost for hours in this photographer’s haven (be sure to ask permission before you take any photos).
• King Abdullah Mosque . Step inside this gigantic and ornate mosque known for its bright blue dome, it is so large it can house up to 7,000 worshippers at a time.
• Al Balad . Otherwise known as downtown Amman, this is the perfect place to wander if you want an authentic Amman experience and to mingle with the locals. 
• The Local Food . Our favourite spots for high quality Arabic dishes were Shams el Balad and Fakhreldin Restaurant. I also recommend visiting Wild Jordan for organic local meals and stopping by Habibah to try their famous Knafeh dessert.

The ancient Roman city of Jerash is located a short drive from Amman (around 1 hour). Often referred to as the “Pompeii of the East” it is the second most visited tourist destination in Jordan, and for good reason. It is home to one the best preserved sites of Roman architecture in the world. The area is covered in archways, columns, theatres and churches with highlights including the Oval Forum, Hadrian’s Arch and Zeus Temple. I highly recommend hiring a guide, getting an information leaflet or doing some simple research so you can understand the rich history of Jerash. If you’re peckish after exploring the ruins, a great place for lunch nearby is Beit Khairat Souf. A environmentally focused women’s cooperative which has a cafe as well as a shop which sells handmade products.

Tip: During the spring months, the ruins are covered in beautiful bright yellow flowers. If you have time, make a second stop and visit the nearby hilltop town of Ajloun and visit its beautiful castle.

The Dead Sea 

The Dead Sea is a salt lake located at the lowest point on earth (430m below sea level) with waters almost 10 times saltier than the ocean. This allows you to have the surreal experience of floating effortlessly on the surface! To access the sea, you can stay overnight at one of the hotels along the water’s edge (such as The Dead Sea Spa Hotel, Kempinski or The Marriott). Each of these has their own private area along the shoreline for guest use. However if you’re just passing by the Dead Sea for the day then there a couple of options of where to swim:

• Herodus (Zara) Spring – a free beach accessible by taking a short walk from the highway. There is even a small waterfall where you can rinse off the salt water after your dip.
• Amman Beach – a private beach club where for 25JD you have access to changing rooms, showers, bathrooms and a restaurant.

If you want a unique perspective of the Dead Sea then head to the Dead Sea Panoramic Complex which is located a short drive away from the shore and gives incredible views over the region.

Tips: Do not put your head underwater, the salt will burn your eyes. Do not put the dead sea mud on your face. Wash off the sea water in a shower right after you exit the sea, otherwise you will be left covered in white salty deposits.

Ma’In Springs

When visiting the Dead Sea, I recommend staying overnight at the nearby Ma’In Hot Springs Hotel. The resort is nestled in a mountainous canyon at 264 metres below sea level and is home to a series of hot spring waterfalls. Here you can enjoy bathing in the warm mineral-rich waters of the falls and lapping up their healing benefits. It is such a unique experience! The hotel itself is luxurious, with stunning views from the rooms and restaurants – plus guests get exclusive access to certain falls. However, if an overnight stay is out of your budget then you can pass through and purchase a 15JD one day pass to the public hot spring falls.

Dana Biosphere Reserve

If you’re looking for some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Jordan, then don’t miss Dana Biosphere Reserve. Dana is the largest protected nature reserve in Jordan at 320 square kilometres. It is home to rare plants and animals, and due to its size and variation in altitude it covers four geographical zones – each with their own unique climate. This wild, rugged and picturesque location is overlooked by most travellers, which means you often have the trails to yourself. There are numerous established hikes in the reserve, with the most famous being the Wadi Ghuweir and Wadi Dana trails. Accommodation is limited with three main options available: Rummana Campsite, Feynan Ecolodge and Dana Guesthouse.

If there is one location you have to visit while in Jordan, it is Petra – the jewel in Jordan’s crown. Dating back to around 300 BC, Petra was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom and is listed as one of the seven new wonders of the world! The lost city is hidden in the depths of the mountains around Wadi Musa and is comprised of an impressive series of tombs and dwellings carved directly into red sandstone rock faces.

It is hard to explain how it feels when you emerge from the Siq and first see the facade of the famous Petra Treasury. I was completely overwhelmed by its size, intricacy and beauty. However, there is so much more to see in Petra than the Treasury alone. The city covers over 50 square kilometres so for the best experience I recommend you spend at least two days there and split them like so:

Day 1 : 

Enter Petra from the main visitors centre, purchasing a two day pass (take photo ID to do this). Get a local guide to show you around the key ruins and explain the history of the city. If you’re feeling energised, hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice for views over the Petra Basin.

Day 2 : 

Do the 12km hike from Little Petra (aka “the back door to Petra”), past goat herds and Bedouin campsites to the Monastery – my personal favourite facade in the city. Continue your hike down the 1000 steps and into the Petra Basin. Use this day to experience Petra in more depth, taking in lesser known sites such as the Royal Tombs, The Arched Gate and the Byzantine Church. Petra is the gift that keeps on giving – the more you explore, the more you will discover. 

Tips : Visit when Petra first opens or stay until it closes to enjoy it without the crowds. Petra by night is a popular activity, but personally I found it to be overpriced and disappointing, I would not recommend it. 

The Wadi Rum desert is a designated UNESCO world heritage site and was one of my personal Jordan highlights. It is home to incredible lunar landscapes, towering red dunes and rugged sandstone mountains. It is like nothing I have seen before, the burnt orange terrain quite literally makes you feel like you’re on Mars. Which explains why it has been used as a location in numerous Hollywood movies including The Martian and Dune.

Wadi Rum is home to nomadic Bedouin tribes. For the full authentic cultural experience I recommend spending a couple of nights at a traditional Bedouin camp. Self-exploration is not encouraged in Wadi Rum so choose a camp that offers tour guides. There are a selection of local activities available including 4×4 jeep tours, rock climbing, hiking and quad bike treks. Enjoy a delicious dinner cooked in an earthen oven (buried in the sand) by your Bedouin hosts. Climb up one of the sandstone mountains near your camp and watch the most incredible sunrises and sunsets. At night, be sure to look up and enjoy the star filled sky. It shines bright due to the lack of light pollution in the region.

Tips : Days are hot and nights are cold in the desert, so don’t forget layers for the evenings. Bring a headlamp if you’re staying in a camp. Bug spray is an essential. 

Eat The Local Food:

The food in Jordan is absolutely delicious. I recommend eating at local cafes and restaurants, and ordering Arabic dishes for the best dining experience. Try the falafel, hummus, fresh Arabic salads, Bedouin tea, iced lemon and mint juice, maqulba (a one pot meal served upside down) and kanafeh (a dessert made from white cheese topped with crunchy pastry and syrup). 

Extra Time?

If you can squeeze in an extra day or two, hit up these Jordan sights!

• Wadi Mujib . This narrow river canyon surrounded by towering mountains is located just off the Dead Sea highway. If you’re looking for an adventurous day, it is a great location to try canyoning and immerse yourself in nature. It is important to note that Wadi Mujib is only open between April and October.
• Aqaba . If you’re a keen scuba diver, stop off in Aqaba and experience the treasures of the Red Sea. Jordan has more than 20 recognised dive sites including wrecked ships, planes and even a tank! 
• King Talal Dam . This dam is a 45 minute drive north of Amman and provides green landscapes for scenic hiking in the springtime. A great day trip from the capital!

Jordan is a destination which is perfect for active and adventurous travellers, with plenty of hiking trails to explore, adrenaline filled activities to try and historic sites to discover. Push it to the top of your bucket list, you won’t regret it!

Safe travels,

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Privacy Overview

Jordan is a desert landlocked in the Middle East, at its southern end east of Amman. With significant ancient history and artifacts dating back to the 10th century BC, it’s widely regarded as one of the most historical sites in the world today.

The country is also proud of its religious tolerance and hospitality towards tourists. A place of immense beauty and culture, it features from ancient desert cities and monuments to modern cities, stunning beaches and desert landscapes.

Listed as a top country to visit in 2023, Jordan is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. If you’re planning a trip to Jordan, here are 9 things you should know before your visit:

1. Jordan Is a Tourist-Friendly Country

Hospitality is a way of life in Jordan, and you’re sure to encounter many friendly locals as you explore the country. For centuries the region has been welcoming visitors from around the world, as caravans traveling from the Middle East to Europe made their way through Jordan. As a result, Jordanians became accustomed to welcoming people from different corners of the world, and the tradition of welcoming foreigners remains to this day.

Most people in the Middle East have a playful spirit. You can expect memorable experiences of locals sharing stories of their country and doing their best to make sure you’re comfortable during your visit.

2. Jordan is a safe country for tourists

Compared to many of its neighboring countries, Jordan is a very safe haven for travelers in the Middle East, making traveling there a safe adventure. Yet, as with any other destination, you should keep a few things in mind to ensure a safe and fun visit.

Stay away from protests

Protests happen frequently and especially in the capital city of Amman. They are usually peaceful and often happen on Thursday evenings or after the Friday noon prayers. Try to stay away from protest areas and big gatherings, and be sure to check the news to be aware of what might be going on in the city.

Avoid Syria and Iraq borders

Bordering Jordan, Syria, and Iraq have shaky security situations. Not only are these places unsafe, but they’re also far from the country’s main sights, so it’s best just to avoid heading into that area.

Keep an eye on your belongings

Like anywhere else, it’s best to keep an eye on your belongings when you’re traveling in Jordan. This means keeping a close watch on your wallet and other valuable items while you’re out exploring the city or country, especially in more crowded areas or tourist spots.

Research your neighborhood 

Be sure to always ask your hotel or host family if it’s okay to venture out at night on your own. While Jordan is generally a very safe destination, there may be certain areas where it’s not safe to be out alone at night. Also, it doesn’t hurt to do a quick research to try to find out if there are any areas with a higher crime rate.

Women traveling in Jordan

Women should be especially aware of their safety in Jordan. Here are some extra tips:

• Avoid public transportation
• Always sit in the back seat of taxis, and be alert.
• Avoid places near bars and clubs.
• Avoid dark, isolated areas.
• Trust your gut. If something feels off, get yourself away from that situation.
• Always dress appropriately and respectfully.

3. You Might Need a Visa to Visit Jordan

As with most countries in the world, the answer is: it depends! The rules of entry and stay in Jordan are different depending on your citizenship, which country you’re entering from, and the purpose of your visit.

There are two ways to get a visa: on arrival or at local embassies.

Who can get a visa on arrival?

The list of countries whose citizens can get a visa on arrival in Jordan changes frequently and is quite long. At the moment, citizens from over 100 countries are able to enter Jordan on a visa-on-arrival basis, which costs about USD $ 57 (40 JD).

Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria , Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Cape Verde, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France , Georgia, Germany, Guatemala, Guyana, Guyana, Haiti, Holland, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati , Kosovo, Kuwait , Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Macau, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia Monaco, Montenegro, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, North Korea, Norway, Oman, Palestine, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania Russia , Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Salvador, Samoa, San Marino, São Tomé and Príncipe, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Solomon Islands, Spain, Suriname, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunis, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu UAE, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe.

Who does not need a visa?

Citizens from Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestinian Territory, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Tunisia, and the United Arab Emirates are exempt from visas. They can usually enter the country with a photo ID.

Citizens from other countries not listed here need to apply for a Jordanian visa before departing.

Be aware that the list of countries whose citizens don’t need a visa might change, as well as other entry requirements. It’s also worth noting that the rules change from one point of entry to another.

So if you’re arriving through Aqaba Airport, you might not need a visa. But if you’re arriving through Israel’s border, then you might.

So make sure to check your situation before departure, and be prepared to apply for a visa if needed.

4. The Jordan Pass can be a good deal

The Jordan Pass is an official government-issued pass that grants you free entry to over 40 tourist attractions, including Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash, and many others.

Why get a Jordan Pass?

• One great advantage of the Jordan Pass is that you can be exempt from the visa fees if you stay at least three nights in the country and if you have a single-entry visa. That way, you can save up to USD $60 in fees and have some extra money to spend on your holiday in Jordan.
• Another advantage is that the Jordan Pass gives you access to many tourist attractions, including ancient ruins, national parks, and more. This means that you can explore more of the country’s incredible sites during your visit!
• Finally, it’s a good way to avoid lines at ticket windows and make the most of your time.

Who can get a Jordan Pass?

You can buy the Jordan Pass if you meet the following requirements:

• Be eligible for a Jordan Visa
• Plan to stay in Jordan for at least 3 nights
• Hold a passport that’s valid for at least 6 months
• Have an email address and a credit card or debit card for online payments

Where to get it?

You need to apply for the Jordan Pass on the  website . Basically, you’ll need to fill out a form with your personal information, choose one of three types of passes and pay. Then you’ll receive a PDF with your pass, which contains a QR Code. We recommend printing this document and carrying it with you during your Jordan trip.

5. You Should Dress Respectfully

Jordan has a large Muslim population, but there are also other religions peacefully coexisting, like Christians, Jews, and members of other faiths.

Although wearing a hijab is not required by law and there is no specific dress code, women are expected to dress modestly, as this is a conservative country.

That means women should avoid wearing low-cut and shoulder-bearing shirts, short skirts, and shorts. You can wear blouses and dresses with short sleeves – a good option for those hot desert days – as long as the shoulders are covered.

If temperatures are high, long or midi flowy dresses are your best bet. You’ll feel comfortable and stylish, and you will respect customs at the same time. If that’s more your style, you can also wear jeans, just be sure to avoid the super tight ones.

Places of worship

If you plan on visiting any mosques or other places of worship during your trip to Jordan, it’s mandatory to dress respectfully.

For women, this means wearing long sleeves, trousers or long dresses, and a head scarf covering hair, shoulders and neck. As for men, they are also expected to cover their knees and shoulders when entering a house of worship.

6. Getting Around in Jordan

Jordan is a large country with many cities spread out over a big area. Because of this, it’s important to be aware of the different transportation options available in order to make the most of your trip.

Airports in Jordan

Queen Alia International Airport is Jordan’s major airport and where several well-known airlines operate. The airport is likely to be your entry point into the country, so make sure to check for any visa requirements before landing.

Another airport is Aqaba King Hussein International Airport, which is smaller but also important to connect the country to other places in the region and also in Europe. EasyJet, Whizzair and Ryanair operate flights at this airport, making it a popular option for budget travelers.

Airport shuttle

The greatest alternative for you to go from the airport to the city center is to take the local shuttles. You can use the Sariyah Shuttle Service, a convenient and affordable option for traveling between Amman and Queen Alia International Airport.

We recommend the Sariya Airport Express bus on Busbud.com. The company offers airport shuttles for as little as $5 USD between the Airport and Amman’s Downtown district. The shuttles run approximately every 30 minutes from 6 AM to 6 PM, and then every hour after that. Book your tickets in advance here to make sure you get the best price and secure your seats.

Intercity buses and tour buses in Jordan

One of the safest and most reliable ways to get around Jordan is to take the JETT buses. They run between many major cities in the country and have several different routes, making it easy to plan your trip according to your schedule.

With comfortable buses and affordable prices, JETT buses are a great option for budget travelers, as they are not only fast but also safe and convenient to travel on.

You can expect to find the following:

• comfortable seats
• air conditioning
• reliable schedules
• online booking

The company offers daily services between Amman, Petra, Awaba and Wadi Rum and also runs daily tours to popular Jordanian tourist locations. Travelers report having great experiences with them, so if you’re looking for a convenient, affordable way to travel around Jordan, booking your trip with JETT can be a great option.

The JETT buses are a comfortable option to get around in Jordan

Taxis and city buses

Bus and taxi services are commonly used as transportation inside the cities. Taking the city bus in Jordan can be a little hectic, so you’re better off taking a taxi to go from the city’s main sights to your hotel.

The taxis in Jordan are easily recognizable thanks to their distinctive yellow and green paint schemes and Arabic text. They are cheap, and locals are ready to transport tourists to their destinations. Remember to always sit in the back seat for extra safety.

Another option to get around is driving yourself using a rental car. It’s important to keep in mind that driving in Jordan is different than what you might be used to, and it can be a challenge. Traffic laws seem to work more as suggestions than actual rules, as Jordanian drivers can be frequently seen missing road lines and parking spots.

You should also be aware that there are a lot of street signs in Arabic, so we recommend downloading an offline translation app so you can read the signs and navigate safely. Still, with a little bit of preparation and caution, you can drive around the country.

7. Jordan Attractions You Don’t Want to Miss

Jordan is a place of incredible natural beauty and rich history, making it the perfect destination for tourists looking to explore and experience something new. Some of the top attractions that you won’t want to miss on your trip include:

Petra is a stunning ancient city carved into the sandstone cliffs of the surrounding mountains in southern Jordan. Dating back to the 6th century BC, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once an important trading center along the famous Silk Road. With its ornate temples, tombs, and other structures, Petra is truly a marvel of ancient architecture and a must-see destination for any traveler exploring the Middle East.

Some of its key features and attractions include the Treasury, an elaborate temple carved into the rock; the Roman Theater, a large amphitheater carved into the mountainside; and Al Khazneh, a tomb decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. Whether you’re interested in exploring Jordan’s rich history or simply admiring its natural beauty, Petra is a place that you won’t want to miss.

Wadi Rum is a vast desert area in southern Jordan that is known for its spectacular scenery and unique geological formations. Often referred to as the “Valley of the Moon,” Wadi Rum is characterized by towering sandstone cliffs, narrow gorges, and expansive plateaus. It is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers, who come to explore its unique natural beauty and experience the peaceful solitude of this vast desert landscape. A visit to Wadi Rum is sure an unforgettable experience.

Wadi Rum by Alex Vasey

The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea in Jordan is one of the most magical places to visit. Not only is it known for its salt-heavy water (nearly ten times as salty as the ocean), but also because it has been a destination for people looking to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate.

One of the most popular attractions of the Dead Sea is its mud. Visitors can cover themselves in black mud and lie back to let it dry before washing it off, leaving their skin feeling silky smooth. The water itself has very high mineral content, so many people enjoy floating on top of the water while basking in the warm sunshine. In addition to these fun activities, you will also find hotels and resorts along the shoreline where you can stay overnight or for an extended period if you want to fully immerse yourself in this unique destination.

Jerash, in northern Jordan, is an old Roman city. The city’s historic theater, Temple of Artemis, and Hadrian’s Arch are just some of the well-preserved ruins that have brought the worldwide city renown. Jerash is a city full of history, and its ruins are a great way to learn about that history and have fun doing it simultaneously. The city’s charm enchants both history buffs and avid travelers, so it’s worth adding it to your itinerary.

Madaba is a city famous for its stunning mosaics. The Madaba Mosaic Map is the most famous mosaic and depicts Jerusalem as well as other biblical sites in vivid detail. Visitors to Madaba can see this intricate work of art at St. George’s Church, one of the city’s many historical sites. The Church of the Apostles and the Madaba Archaeological Park are also popular attractions for tourists who want to learn more about this vibrant city’s history and culture.

Aqaba is a coastal city in southern Jordan that is known for its rich history and its pristine beaches in the Gulf of Aqaba. The city has been an important trading port throughout the centuries, and it continues to attract visitors looking to explore ancient ruins, snorkel and dive in crystal-clear waters, or enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.

8. What’s The Best Time to Visit Jordan

In general, the best seasons for weather in Jordan are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the temperatures are milder, and the average is 65 °F (or 18 °C).

Of course, it also depends on your specific travel plans, interests and availability.

The autumn months, from September to November, are a great time to visit Jordan. The weather is mild and comfortable, with cool evenings and low humidity. This is an ideal time to take advantage of the many outdoor activities available in Jordan, from hiking and biking to rock climbing and snorkeling. Temperatures range from 60°F to 90°F (18 °C to 32°C) during the day, so you can expect nice weather for exploring the treasures of Jordan’s beautiful landscapes and ancient cities.

Another great time to visit Jordan is in the spring, from March to May. The temperatures are mild and comfortable, ranging from 45°F to 75°F ( 7°C to 23°C) with cool evenings and low humidity. This is an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking, as well as cultural attractions like archaeological sites, museums, and galleries. As this is a great time to visit Jordan, you can expect moderate crowds and higher prices, making it a popular time for travelers. So don’t forget to book your tour tickets and hotels early.

If you visit during the summer, be prepared for some serious heat, with temperatures ranging from 60 °F to 90 °F (15 °C to 32°C). In the sunny desert, it can feel even hotter, with temperatures racing 100 °F in desert areas like Wadi Rum, Petra and Aqaba. However, there are many activities that you can do during this season, including snorkeling and diving in Aqaba and enjoying the calm waters of the Dead Sea. We don’t recommend long hikes in the desert, though, as it might be too hot or difficult due to the sandy terrain.

If you are planning a winter visit, keep in mind that it can get quite cold at night. The days might be cloudy, with rain showers possible. Temperatures range from 30 to 65 °F (1 °C to 18 °C), so don’t forget to bring a warm jacket. However, this is also a great time of year to explore some of Jordan’s best attractions: Jerash’s Roman ruins, the fascinating mosaics at Madaba, and the intricate details of the ancient city of Petra. It could be a good time to go on hikes (guided by local professionals, of course), but be aware that in case of heavy rains, there might be floods, with mud blocking roads and access to some parts of the country.

No matter when you visit, be prepared for a travel adventure in the fascinating country of Jordan! Whether you want to relax on pristine beaches and soak up the sun, explore ancient ruins, or experience local culture and cuisine, there is something for everyone here in this enchanting country

9. Expect A Lot of Social Interaction

One of the things that you will quickly notice when you visit Jordan is how friendly and welcoming the people are. This is a very social culture, where it is common to engage in lots of small talk, chat with strangers, and share meals and drinks with those around you.

So when in Jordan, get in the mood and try to engage in as much social interaction as you can. That’s going to be a rich part of your experience and a show of respect to the locals as well, as you might come across as rude if you don’t accept tea and coffee invitations or greetings and goodbyes. In fact, according to local traditions, you can refuse a meal three times before you have to accept an invitation for lunch or dinner.

And when it comes to greetings, the best thing you can do is follow the lead of your hosts. Whether it’s a simple handshake, an elaborate hug or a kiss on the cheek, just follow their lead and try to express how thrilled you are to be in their company. This will go a long way in making your experience all that much more memorable.

So if you’re looking for an immersive travel experience in a fascinating and welcoming country, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit Jordan! With plenty of stunning landscapes, unique cultural attractions, and delicious local food and drink, you are sure to have an adventure you’ll never forget. So pack your bags and get ready for an amazing journey!

Book Your Jordan Visit Today

Jordan is a truly magical place, full of stunning landscapes, fascinating cultural attractions, and delicious local cuisine. From the ancient ruins of Jerash and Madaba to the magical beauty of Petra, you can see a lot of amazing sights in this enchanting country in a short trip. And with its welcoming people, great weather all year round, and endless opportunities for social interaction, Jordan is truly a one-of-a-kind travel destination.

Don’t forget to book your bus tour tickets with Busbud, which offers a wide selection of routes and departure times to fit your travel plans. So why wait? Book your trip to Jordan today, and prepare for an incredible adventure!​

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In fact, according to local traditions, you can refuse a meal three times before you have to accept an invitation for lunch or dinner.

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Jordan

Jordan, located in the Middle-East, is known for its ancient ruins, nature preserves and seaside resorts. The country is home to more than 7 million people and offers many different and riveting destinations to explore. These include the capital, Amman, and the Dead Sea.

Do I Need Vaccines for Jordan?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Jordan. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Jordan: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , yellow fever , rabies and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.

See the tables below for more information:

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

MERS in the Arabian Peninsula

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome is present in middle eastern countries including Jordan. There is little information on how people become infected. But, there is increasing correlation in human contact with camels. Symptoms of MERS includes fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

Travellers should take the following precautions to prevent MERS:

• Wash hands often and thoroughly.
• Avoid touching your eyes, ears, and mouth.
• Avoid close contact with those who are ill, especially if they could have MERS.

Do I Need a Visa to Enter Jordan?

Jordan requires visas for all travellers, but they are available on arrival. Visa duration is usually for one month. Passports must have at least six months validity upon entering the country. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.

Sources: Embassy of Jordan and GOV.UK

How Is the Climate in Jordan?

Jordan is known to have shorter, cooler winters and longer, hotter, dryer summers. But, even though summer days tend to be hot, the night time can be rather cold. Rain is scarce in Jordan but when it does fall, it tends to be from October to March. March to May and September to November tend to be the best times to visit based on the prime weather conditions.

How Safe Is Jordan?

Jordan has a high threat of terrorism from indigenous and transnational groups. Both have planned and executed attacks in recent years. It is imperative tourists remain aware of their surroundings. Terrorists may target places like shopping malls, night clubs, resorts and transportation stops. If you notice any suspicious persons or objects, report it immediately.

UK citizens also tend to encounter a lot of petty crimes as well such as pick-pockets and purse-snatchers. To avoid being a victim of such crimes, remain vigilant and on guard. Keep your belongings secured in either a rucksack or another bag which you have a firm hold on.

Hiking in Petra

Petra, a city carved into the mountains by the Nabataean Arabs, is one of the Seven Wonders. Visitors can experience the city in many ways from archaeological parks to excavations.

There are also several historical locations to visit in Petra such as the Dana Nature Reserve and the Shobak Castle.

What Should I Pack for Jordan?

Deciding what to take on a trip can be tricky. For Jordan, be sure you have these items in your bag:

• Sun cream to protect against the strong UV rays in Jordan, use it even if you are walking around in the city.
• Clothing which covers the legs and shoulders. Jordan is a Muslim country and bare legs or shoulders can be seen as offensive. They should also be light so you do not overheat.
• Sturdy shoes such as hiking boots- the desert is tough on shoes which are made from cloth.
• Hand sanitizer helps prevent spreading diseases such as cholera or traveller’s diarrhoea .

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Jordan

If you are in Jordan and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British Embassy Amman PO Box 87 Abdoun 11118 Amman Jordan Telephone: +962 (6) 590 9200 Emergency Phone: +962 6 590 9200 Fax: +962 (6) 590 9279 Email: [email protected]

Ready to start your next journey? Ring us up at or book online now !

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines to Enter Jordan? MERS in the Arabian Peninsula Do I Need a Visa to Enter Jordan? How Is the Climate in Jordan? How Safe Is Jordan? Hiking in Petra What Should I Pack for Jordan? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Jordan

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ETA UK visa waiver for Jordan citizens

Travel from jordan to the uk with a british eta.

Citizens of Jordan can travel to the UK visa-free by applying for an ETA. ETA applications for Jordanians are now open.

A UK visa for Jordan passport holders is no longer required for short stays.

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland has launched an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) , which allows eligible travellers to register online and visit the UK visa-free.

Jordanian citizens can take advantage of the UK ETA service as of February 2024 .

Do Jordanian citizens need a visa to enter the UK?

Jordanians do not need a visa to visit the UK short term for reasons such as tourism and business.

Passport holders from Jordan must register online for an ETA to travel to the UK visa-free.

The ETA makes it easy to authorise a trip to the United Kingdom from your own home. There's no need to file a UK visa application at a British Embassy.

When do you need to get a UK visa for Jordanians?

Tourists and business travellers from Jordan can visit the UK with an ETA instead of a visa. However, a UK visa is required if you’re planning to:

• Stay long-term
• Study a long-term course

Advantages of the UK ETA for Jordanians

The UK ETA has a number of benefits for travellers from Jordan:

• Online application means you can avoid a trip to an embassy
• User-friendly platform makes applying quick and simple
• No paperwork required in-person
• Allows visa-free visits for up to 6 months

Can Jordanian nationals get an ETA for England

The UK ETA allows passengers from Jordan to visit England, as well as the rest of the United Kingdom.

There is no ETA specifically for England.

Similarly, you cannot get an exclusive England visa from Jordan. You must instead apply for a UK visa.

The UK ETA allows Jordanians to visit the following countries of the United Kingdom:

• Northern Ireland

How to get the UK ETA for Jordanian citizens

You can get the online UK visa waiver for Jordanians by following 3 quick steps :

1- Complete the simple online form

2- Upload supporting documents, including an image of your Jordan passport

3- Cover the processing fee

Once approved, you will receive confirmation of your ETA at the email address you provided .

Learn more about how to complete the UK ETA application form .

Travel to the UK from Jordan

Most Jordanians will travel to the UK by air , with regular flights available from Amman (AMM) to London Heathrow (LHR). There are both direct flights and journeys with stopovers.

When entering the UK with a Jordanian passport, you must present this document and a valid UK visa at British border control.

You must register with the ETA before travelling to the UK. The ETA is read digitally when your Jordan passport is scanned.

Make sure you travel with the same Jordan passport you used to apply for your ETA or visa.

UK ETA from Jordan: FAQs

Can jordanian citizens travel to the uk.

Yes, you can travel to the UK as long as you meet the UK visa requirements from Jordan. If you obtain a visa from a British Embassy beforehand, you can make the trip.

For short-term travel to the UK, Jordanians need an ETA. To stay more than 6 months, a visa is essential.

This ETA is a quicker and simpler way to authorise your trip to the United Kingdom.

How long can a resident of Jordan stay in the UK?

It depends on the nationality of the resident. The rules for travelling to the UK depend on your passport, not your residence status.

If you hold a Jordan passport, you must abide by the terms of your UK visa. Different visas or permits will allow you to stay for different lengths of time.

The UK ETA allows a maximum visit of 6 months.

Can I travel to the UK with a Jordanian residence permit?

Anyone can travel to the UK with the right paperwork ; there are no entry bans for any group of people based on nationality or residence.

However, the rules for entering the United Kingdom depend on the nationality of your passport . A Jordan residence permit does not affect your eligibility to travel to the UK. If your passport was issued by a country on the UK’s non-visa list, you will be able to visit the country for up to 6 months with no visa. You only need your passport, some nationalities also need an ETA.

When do I pay the ETA UK fee from Jordan?

Jordanians have to pay the ETA fee during the online application. This single payment includes the value of the visa waiver and the processing fee.

You do not need to pay each time you travel to the UK. The ETA is valid for 2 years and multiple trips.

Navigating the Border Crossings between Jordan and Israel/Palestine

Last Updated Date: Mar, 2024

1. The Northern Crossing: Sheikh Hussein / Jordan River Border Crossing Located approximately between the Jordanian city Irbid and the Israeli town Beit She’an.

2. The Central Crossing: King Hussein / Allenby Bridge Border Crossing Located approximately between Jordan’s capital Amman and Jerusalem. *This is the most frequented land border between Jordan and Jerusalem due to its central location.

3. The Southern Crossing: Wadi Araba / Yitzhak Rabin Border Crossing Located close to the Red Sea, between Aqaba and Eilat.

FAQs & General Information

For information specific to each individual border crossing, see below this section.

At either side of the border, an exit tax has to be paid when leaving the country.

(IL) = Israeli-Controlled Terminal

Standard Shuttle

At Allenby/ King Hussein Bridge, as well as at the Jordan River/ Sheikh Hussein Crossing, you have to take a shuttle bus to cross the space between the two border terminals.

VIP Service

Central Crossing: Allenby Bridge (IL) / King Hussein: $135 USD per person. Southern Crossing: Yitzhak Rabin / Wadi Araba Crossing: 22 ILS per person (~$6 USD)

Jordan River (IL) / Sheikh Hussein Crossing:

The VIP Service is a provision run by the staff at the borders to enable faster crossing. The service includes “VIP” waiting rooms, assistance with immigration, security, and luggage; plus a private van shuttle between the terminals. Usually, clients go to the front of any queues. The VIP service can save lots of frustration, speed up the crossing considerably (especially when the border is busy), and allow more comfort.

Is the VIP Service worth the money? Like most things, we think the answer is “it depends.” It depends on your budget, trip timeline, personal preferences, etc.

It’s not possible to travel in a rental car from Jordan to Palestine/Israel and back. However, you can park a rental car in the paid parking lots on either side of the border.

The Israeli Authorities current policy is to not stamp passports for tourist visas.

Instead, travelers are issued with a personalized printed card (see picture). You should make sure to keep this card with you throughout the duration of your stay in Israel. Do not lose it.

The entry and exit procedures for Israel/Palestine are governed by Israeli state authorities. Here’s what you need to know:

Citizens from most Western countries can obtain a visa upon arrival at several entry points, including Ben Gurion Airport, Eilat Airport, King Hussein/Allenby Bridge, Sheikh Hussein/Jordan River Crossing, or Wadi Araba/Yitzhak Rabin Crossing. If, however, you require a visa in advance, the application process should be initiated at an Israeli Embassy, typically the one in your home country. Check your eligibility for a visa upon arrival or the need for an advance application here.

Visas obtained on arrival are typically valid for a period of three months.

Important Note: On certain occasions, Israel has denied entry to travelers of Arab ethnicity or Muslim religion, as well as those perceived as activists supporting Palestinian causes. If you fall into any of these categories, anticipate potential delays at the border, and be prepared for extensive questioning.

JORDAN PASS

We recommend you purchase the Jordan Pass – the combined ticket that includes your tourist visa and entrance fees to most tourist sites – it’s the cheapest and easiest option for traveling around Jordan.

• For this option, you must stay in Jordan for a minimum of 3 nights.
• If you go with this option, you should buy the Jordan Pass online before entering the country.

Basic Tourist Visa (Non-Jordan Pass)- Fees

Single Entry Visa (valid 1 month): 40 JOD (~$56 USD).

Entry Requirements

• Passports must be valid for a minimum of 6 months upon arrival to Jordan.

Northern Crossing: Sheikh Hussein / Jordan River Crossing

Central Crossing: King Hussein / Allenby Bridge Crossing

Southern Crossing: Wadi Araba / Yitzhak Rabin Crossing

1. the northern crossing: sheikh hussein / jordan river crossing, hours of operation:.

​Sunday – Friday: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm (last entrance at 4:00 pm) Saturday – Closed

• The border crossing will be closed on Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) and the Muslim New Year (Ra’s al-Sana al-Hijriyah).
• ​Opening hours may also differ on other Jewish, Muslim, and national holidays. These holidays are generally announced at the beginning of the year.
• The opening hours of this border were shortened on October 18th, 2023. Previously the border was open on Fridays and later at night, so we’ll keep a lookout for the possible return of increased operating hours.

How to Get There (Directions):

Rental Car It’s not possible to travel in a rental car from Jordan to Palestine/Israel and back. However, you can park a rental car in the paid parking lots on either side of the border.

Public Transport Public transport to and from either side of the Sheikh Hussein / Jordan River Border Crossing is very limited. The easiest (and still relatively cheap) option is, to take a bus to Irbid/ Beit She’an, and then from there a taxi to the border. After crossing the border, you can then subsequently take a taxi from the border to Beit She’an/ Irbid, and then continue from there by bus.

Bus between Amman & Nazareth A bus operates several times a week between Amman and Nazareth. This bus crosses at Sheikh Hussein/ Jordan River Crossing.

Private Transfer Avoid the stress and take a private transfer with us! When booking a private transfer with us, simply opt for the northern border crossing supplement if that’s your preferred option.

Between the Border Terminals: A Step-by-Step Guide:

• There is a distance between the Jordanian and Israeli-controlled border terminals that pedestrians are not allowed to cross on foot.
• An air-conditioned bus shuttles passengers from the Jordania-controlled terminal to the Israeli-controlled terminal (and vice versa). This bus operates every 25 minutes and costs 5 NIS (approximately 1 JD or $1.4).

2. The Central Crossing: King Hussein / Allenby Bridge

Sunday – Thursday: 08:00 am – 4:30 pm (last entrance at 1:30 pm) Friday: 08:00 am – 3:30 pm (last entrance at 12:30 pm) Saturday – Closed

• The opening hours of this border were shortened on October 18th, 2023. We’ll keep a lookout for the possible return of increased operating hours.

To & from Amman: Bus: The Jett company operates a daily bus service from Amman to King Hussein Bridge. The bus departs from Abdali at 07:15 am. (Please note that their online booking function is not very reliable.) Rideshare: You can call an Uber, or other locally available rideshare.

To & from Jericho / the West Bank:

• Buses are available to transport you between the border crossing and Jericho.
• Alternatively, you have the option to take a taxi, which remains budget-friendly due to the relatively short distance (approximately 10km).
• From Jericho, collective taxis (service) provide onward connections to most other cities in the West Bank.

To & from Jerusalem: Al-Najmah Taxis operates a shuttle service connecting Jerusalem and King Hussein Bridge. The fare for a single passenger (excluding luggage) is 45 NIS. In Jerusalem, you can access this shuttle service at the company’s office and starting point located on Sultan Suleiman Street, positioned between Damascus and Herod’s Gate.

Private Transfer Avoid the stress and take a private transfer with us! We offer – Amman to Jerusalem (and Jerusalem to Amman ), – Amman to Tel Aviv-Jaffa (and vice versa ), and – Custom Transfers

Crossing from Jerusalem to Jordan

1. At the Israeli-Controlled Terminal: Upon arrival, your vehicle will drop you off outside the Israeli terminal. Here’s what to expect next:

Enter the terminal premises and locate the exit tax kiosk to pay the exit tax, which is typically payable in the local currency. US dollars and Euros are usually accepted.

Take your exit tax invoice along with your passport to the immigration counter. Your passport will be processed, and you will then proceed to a waiting area with seating. There are three separate shuttle buses available: one for tourists, one for Jerusalem residents, and one for West Bank Palestinians. Ensure you board the correct bus by confirming with the driver.

2. Between the Border Terminals: The journey between the Israeli terminal and the Jordanian terminal involves the following steps:

You will wait in the designated area until you receive instructions to board the shuttle bus. If you prefer a quicker and more efficient process, consider the VIP service (details available below).

Please note that three different shuttle buses serve tourists, Jerusalem residents, and West Bank Palestinians. Confirm your choice with the driver to ensure you are on the right bus.

During transit between the Israeli and Jordanian terminals, the Jordanian police will collect your passports. These passports will be securely held by the driver and then handed over to Jordanian immigration upon reaching the Jordanian Terminal.

Upon arrival at the Jordanian terminal, a ticket collector will board the bus to collect fares from passengers. Finally, you will disembark from the bus at the Jordanian Border Terminal.

3. Jordanian Border Terminal:

The final phase of your journey consists of the following important steps:

Within the Jordanian Border Terminal, you will be called by name to receive your passport.

Proceed to a counter where your visa will be controlled and confirmed. It’s crucial to note that obtaining a visa to Jordan upon arrival at this border crossing is not possible.

Crossing from Jordan to Jerusalem 1. At the Jordanian Terminal:

Upon your arrival at the King Hussein Bridge, head directly to the Tourist Terminal. The bus will typically take you there, and most taxi drivers are familiar with the route. In case you find yourself at the terminal for Jordanians/Palestinians, don’t worry; the border staff will guide you to the Tourist Terminal. Inside the terminal, you’ll be required to pay the exit tax if applicable and have your passport checked. You’ll usually receive your exit stamp on a piece of paper. The staff will retain your passport and return it to you once you board the shuttle bus.

2. Between the Border Terminals:

There might be a brief wait until there are enough passengers to fill the shuttle bus to the Israeli Terminal, which is approximately 5 kilometers away. Eventually, you’ll be instructed to board the shuttle bus. To bypass the wait and expedite the border crossing, you can opt for the VIP service. You’ll need to purchase a ticket for the transfer on the bus, and your passport will be returned to you.

3. At the Israeli Terminal:

Upon exiting the shuttle bus in front of the Israeli terminal, you will need to drop off larger items of luggage at one of the counters outside the terminal for a security check. You’ll receive a sticker on your passport indicating how many items you’ve checked in. If you’re only traveling with hand luggage, make sure to keep it with you.

Before entering the terminal, stop at a second counter where your passport will undergo an initial assessment and receive another sticker. The color and code on this sticker supposedly indicate the outcome of the assessment (i.e., your perceived level of risk to the Israeli state), although the exact meaning remains uncertain. You can then proceed inside the terminal, where immigration officers will issue you a visa, possibly after some questioning.

Following the immigration kiosks, there is another passport check. You’ll then proceed to the hall where your checked luggage is delivered. Collect your belongings and continue past the customs counters and exit the terminal.

Please be aware that, despite our best intentions, we have no control over the border procedures, systems, crowds, and queues. These may be an inevitable part of your journey to the magnificent city of Jerusalem. If you wish to avoid such inconveniences, consider utilizing the VIP Border Crossing service (see below) or opt for travel via the Jordan River Border (also known as Sheikh Hussein), although this option involves an additional 3 hours of driving.

— For a traveler’s perspective on crossing this border, you can read a first-hand account here .

3. The Southern Crossing: Wadi Araba / Yitzhak Rabin Crossing

Sunday – Thursday: 06:30 am – 08:00 pm (last entrance at 7:30 pm) Friday – Saturday: 08:00 am – 8:00 pm (last entrance at 7:30 pm)

Taxi: The border crossing is very close to the respective city centers of Aqaba and Eilat. Therefore you can rather easily and inexpensively take a taxi to the border. Uber and other rideshare apps are not operable in Aqaba.

The space between the two border terminals can be crossed by foot, there is no shuttle bus.

*Disclaimer – Please be aware that:

• border regulations may change rapidly, and individual experiences can vary.
• While we make every effort to provide up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or permanence of the details outlined above.
• We strongly recommend maintaining flexible travel plans and allowing for additional time to account for any unforeseen complications.

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Israel-Gaza latest: US 'outraged' by deadly Israeli strike on aid workers; World Central Kitchen demands independent investigation

The US has expressed "outrage" at the killing of seven humanitarian aid workers in an Israeli airstrike. The organisation the volunteers were working for, World Central Kitchen, has demanded an independent investigation and rejected the idea that Israel should be allowed to carry it out.

Thursday 4 April 2024 07:31, UK

• Israel-Hamas war

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• US expresses 'outrage' at deadly Israeli strike on aid convoy
• World Central Kitchen demands independent investigation - and urges UK to back it
• 'Devastated' and 'heartbroken' families pay tribute to Britons killed
• Charity told Israel of movements so aid attack 'makes no sense', ex-boss says
• 'Misidentification' led to deadly mistake, Israel says
• Podcast: Will volunteers leave Gaza after aid deaths?
• Watch: Evidence suggests three separate strikes
• Live reporting by Guy Birchall

The collapse of healthcare infrastructure in Gaza has left thousands of dead unidentified - with authorities relying on first responders, journalists and bereaved families for information.

Sky News Data and Forensics correspondent Tom Cheshire explains why Gaza's health officials are unable to formally identify thousands of Palestinians killed in the conflict with Israel.

Israel's explanation for killing seven aid workers in Gaza was "not good enough", said Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese.

Israel said it mistakenly killed workers of charity World Central Kitchen, including Australian woman Zomi Frankcom, drawing widespread condemnation from its allies.

"We need to have accountability for how it has occurred, and what is not good enough is the statements that have been made, including that this is just a product of war," Mr Albanese said.

On Tuesday, Benjamin Netanyahu said "Israel deeply rejects the tragic incident" and that "this happens in war".

World Central Kitchen has demanded an independent investigation into the IDF strikes that killed seven of its employees.

CEO Erin Gore and board co-chair Javier Garcia called on the governments of the UK, US, Australia, Canada and Poland to join its call for third party scrutiny of the attack.

They said an independent investigation was the only way to determine if Israel had violated international law, ensure transparency and accountability and prevent future attacks on humanitarian aid workers.

"This was a military attack that involved multiple strikes and targeted three WCK vehicles," said Ms Gore and Mr Garcia in a joint statement.

"All three vehicles were carrying civilians; they were marked as WCK vehicles and their movements were in full compliance with Israeli authorities, who were aware of their itinerary, route, and humanitarian mission."

The organisation said it had asked the Israeli government to immediately preserve all documents, communications, video or audio recordings, relevant to the strikes.

The US has expressed further "outrage" at the Israeli strike on a humanitarian aid convoy that killed seven aid workers, including three Britons.

Lloyd Austin, the country's defence secretary, urged Israel to take concrete steps to protect aid workers and Palestinian civilians "after repeated coordination failures", the Pentagon said.

In a conversation with Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant, he  "expressed his outrage at the Israeli strike on a World Central Kitchen humanitarian aid convoy that killed seven aid workers, including an American citizen".

He also urged Mr Gallant to conduct "a swift and transparent" investigation, to share the conclusions publicly, and to hold those responsible to account.

Here's what we know about the aid workers killed in the airstrike...

Welcome back to our coverage of the Israel-Hamas war and the wider conflict in the Middle East.

The fallout from Monday night's deadly Israeli airstrike on an aid convoy in Gaza continued yesterday, as more of Israel's allies came out to condemn the killings.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he was "outraged" by the attack, while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called Benjamin Netanyahu's response "unacceptable and insufficient".

Tributes poured in for the seven workers killed, including the three British victims John Chapman, 57, James "Jim" Henderson, 33, and James Kirby, 47.

Mr Netanyahu and Joe Biden are due to speak today in what will be their first discussion since the tragedy.

Also in the past day:

• World Central Kitchen founder Jose Andres accused Israel of targeting the aid workers "systematically, car by car". Israel rejected the claim as "nonsense";
• The bodies of the six foreign aid workers killed were taken to Egypt ahead of their repatriation;
• The US said Israel needed to "do better" and demanded a swift investigation into the deaths;
• Israeli minister Benny Gantz urged Mr Netanyahu to commit to national elections this year, signalling a widening rift in the war cabinet.

That's all for today, but we'll be back soon with regular updates and analysis.

Scroll down to read what happened during the day.

A close friend of Damien Sobol says he immediately picked up his phone to text him when he heard about the Israeli strike on an aid convoy on Monday.

Mr Sobol, a Polish citizen, was one of seven World Central Kitchen workers killed.

Mikolaj Rykowski told Sky News that when he first heard of the attack, he prayed that his friend was not involved.

"I take my phone and write to Damien 'how are you, bro? Where are you? Everything is okay?'... but of course he did not answer," he said.

Mr Rykowski said Mr Sobol was "the best of all of us" and was "forever smiling".

He said he was not angry at Israel, but angry for everyone caught up in war zones across the world.

Israel's economy minister says suggestions that Israel knew it was targeting aid workers in Monday's strike are "nonsense".

It comes after celebrity chef and World Central Kitchen founder Jose Andres claimed the Israeli military targeted the workers "systematically, car by car" (see 19.10 post).

In response, Nir Barkat told the BBC there was "no way in the world" that Israel would target humanitarian workers.

"That's nonsense. I'm sorry, give us a bit of a respect that we care about those people," he said.

Mr Barkat insisted Israel would "interrogate" the incident and provide details to the aid workers' families.

Monday night's deadly strike reveals the "critical" need for a hostage deal in Gaza, the White House has said.

"If we get a hostage deal, it means that we can get more humanitarian aid... into Gaza," press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said, adding: "That is what we're going to continue also to work on."

Ms Jean-Pierre said Joe Biden was "working 24/7" with his team to get a deal done.

She also reiterated that the president was "outraged and heartbroken" over the deaths of humanitarian workers.

James "Jim" Henderson was among the six foreign aid workers killed in Gaza earlier this week.

The 33-year-old former roofer from Cornwall served for six years in the Royal Marines. He was reportedly due to leave Gaza on the day of the attack.

He was remembered today in his home town of Falmouth:

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