Jordan Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Amman
- Currency
- Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
- Best time to visit
- March to May and September to November offer mild temperatures perfect for Petra and Wadi Rum. Summer (June–August) is brutally hot. Winter evenings are cold in the desert.
Visa requirements
The Jordan Pass (highly recommended) includes the visa fee plus entry to 40+ attractions including Petra. Otherwise, most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival (JOD 40). Citizens of certain Arab countries enter visa-free.
Getting around
There's no useful passenger rail, so getting around relies on buses (JETT coaches between Amman, Petra and Aqaba), shared taxis (servees), and rental cars on the well-maintained highways. Within Amman, metered taxis and ride-hailing apps Uber and Careem are the easiest way to travel.
Safety
One of the most stable and safe countries in the Middle East. Jordanians are exceptionally welcoming to tourists. Exercise normal caution in Amman. Petra can be overwhelming in peak season — watch for overenthusiastic vendors. Women should dress modestly outside of hotels.
Tipping customs
Tipping is customary and appreciated. Restaurants often add a 10% service charge, so an extra 5–10% in cash for good service is generous; round up taxi fares, and keep small notes for hotel porters, housekeeping and guides.
Travel tips
The Jordan Pass saves significant money if visiting Petra. Float in the Dead Sea — the salt concentration prevents swimming but is a unique experience. Try mansaf (the national dish of lamb in jameed sauce) at a local restaurant. Wadi Rum is best explored with a Bedouin guide.