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Jordan – Destination Guide

Written by Rob Embury - Best In Travel

Jordan is a land where ancient civilisations, cinematic desert landscapes, and warm hospitality come together in one compact, easy to explore destination. From the rose coloured façades of Petra to floating on the Dead Sea and stargazing in Wadi Rum, every day feels layered with history and natural wonder.

Whether you are wandering Roman ruins, hiking through protected biosphere reserves, sharing tea with Bedouin hosts, or exploring vibrant souks in Amman, Jordan offers a seamless blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation.

🏜️ Regions to Explore

🏛️ Petra

The ancient Nabataean city carved into rose red cliffs is Jordan’s most iconic site and a true bucket list experience.

  • Walk Through the Siq to the Treasury
  • Hike to the Monastery and the High Place of Sacrifice
  • Visit Little Petra for a Quieter Experience
  • Explore the Royal Tombs and Colonnaded Streets

🌊 Dead Sea

The lowest point on Earth, famous for its mineral rich waters and therapeutic mud.

  • Float Effortlessly in the Salty Water
  • Relax at Spa Resorts with Panoramic Views
  • Visit Ma’in Hot Springs
  • Enjoy Sunset Views over the West Bank Hills

🏞️ Wadi Rum

A vast desert of red sand dunes, sandstone mountains, and otherworldly scenery often called the Valley of the Moon.

  • Take a 4×4 Jeep Safari through the Valley
  • Ride Camels across the Sand Dunes
  • Camp in Bedouin Style Desert Tents
  • Try Rock Climbing or Sandboarding

🏙️ Amman

Jordan’s vibrant capital blends ancient ruins with contemporary cafes, galleries, and rooftop dining.

  • Explore the Citadel and the Roman Theatre
  • Wander Rainbow Street Cafes and Boutiques
  • Shop for Spices and Crafts in Traditional Souks
  • Discover Modern Jordanian Cuisine

🌄 Dana & Feynan

Jordan’s premier eco tourism region, known for dramatic valleys, wildlife, and sustainable desert lodges.

  • Trek through the Dana Biosphere Reserve
  • Stay in Eco Lodges or Bedouin Run Guesthouses
  • Enjoy Wildlife Spotting and Sunset Views
  • Experience Candlelit Evenings at Feynan

white island surrounded by water

🌤️ Best Time to Visit

March to May and September to November

  • Mild Temperatures for Hiking and Exploring
  • Spring Wildflowers across the Countryside
  • Ideal Conditions for Petra and Wadi Rum
  • Avoid Peak Summer Heat in Desert Regions

✈️ Major Airports

  • Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) – Main International Gateway near Amman
  • King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) – Serves Aqaba and the Red Sea
  • Amman Civil Airport Marka (ADJ)

🚙 Getting Around

  • Car Rental Is Ideal for Flexibility
  • JETT Buses Offer Reliable Intercity Routes
  • Private Drivers and Guided Day Tours Widely Available
  • Taxis Are Common – Use the Careem App or Agree on Price Before Departure

🛂 Visas

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an eVisa prior to travel.

The Jordan Pass is highly recommended and includes:

  • Visa Fee Waiver if Staying at Least 3 Nights
  • Entry to Petra and over 40 Attractions

Official Website: https://www.jordanpass.jo

Always check current entry requirements with the official Jordanian government website before travel.

💬 Language

  • Arabic Is the Official Language
  • English Widely Spoken in Tourist Areas

💰 Currency & Money

  • Jordanian Dinar JOD
  • Credit Cards Accepted in Cities and Major Hotels
  • Cash Preferred in Rural or Remote Areas
  • ATMs Widely Available
  • Tipping: Around 10 Percent in Restaurants if Service Not Included, Small Tips for Drivers, Guides, and Hotel Staff Appreciated

📱 SIM Cards & eSIMs

🙏 Etiquette

  • Dress Modestly in Rural and Religious Areas
  • Remove Shoes before Entering Homes or Mosques
  • Ask Permission before Photographing People
  • Public Displays of Affection Best Kept Minimal

🧷 Safety

Jordan is widely regarded as one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the Middle East for travellers.

  • Tourist Police Present at Major Sites
  • Avoid Border Areas with Syria and Iraq
  • Tap Water Not Recommended – Use Bottled or Filtered Water
  • Follow Local Guidance when Visiting Desert or Remote Regions

🌈 LGBTQIA+ Travellers

Jordan remains culturally conservative. Same sex relationships are not explicitly criminalised, however public attitudes can be traditional.

  • Discretion Advised with Public Displays of Affection
  • Urban Areas like Amman Tend to Be More Open
  • Private Tours and Group Travel Can Offer Added Comfort

📍 Why Visit Jordan?

Jordan is a land of ancient cities, wild deserts, and warm-hearted hospitality. With its mix of bucket-list sites and off-the-beaten-path adventures, it’s perfect for history lovers, hikers, and cultural explorers alike. From Petra to Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea, every moment in Jordan is steeped in beauty and meaning.

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