Travel Essentials
All you need to know for a seamless journey through Jordan
Travel Essentials
Your journey starts here — confident, informed, and inspired
Jordan is a land of wonders, and preparation is the key to unlocking its full magic. Whether you’re wandering through ancient cities, sleeping under desert stars, or savoring local cuisine, the right guidance makes all the difference.
Explore our Travel Essentials guide below for all the preparation tips you need — download the PDF to have it handy whenever you wish, and contact our team for any inquiry you may have.
When to Visit
Jordan is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm — from wildflower-filled spring trails to warm winter escapes by the Red Sea. The best time to visit depends on your interests, tolerance for heat or cold, and the type of experiences you’re seeking.
Travel Tip: Jordan’s climate varies by region and elevation — pack layers and stay hydrated to stay comfortable wherever you go.
Spring
(March to May) Is widely considered the best time to explore, with mild temperatures and blooming green landscapes — perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying cultural tours.
Autumn
(September to November) Offers ideal weather and fewer crowds across Jordan. It’s a season of golden light and warm days — a favorite for scenic drives, outdoor ruins, and relaxed desert sunsets.
Summer
(June to August) Is hot across much of Jordan but great for Dead Sea wellness and Red Sea diving. Early mornings and evenings remain pleasant for sightseeing and cultural activities.
Winter
(December to February) Brings cooler weather to the highlands and occasional rain or snow. It’s peaceful, less crowded, perfect for travelers seeking atmosphere, and slower, mindful travel.
Explore an interactive month-by-month breakdown of average temperatures, rainfall, and humidity across Jordan’s key destinations to help you plan your perfect trip.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Smooth arrivals, unforgettable beginnings
Visa on Arrival — Easy and Accessible for Most
Citizens of most countries worldwide — including North America, the vast majority of Europe, Oceania, and large parts of Asia, Africa, and South America — are eligible for a Visa on Arrival. Only a small number of nationalities are considered restricted and must obtain prior visa approval through a Jordanian embassy or consulate before traveling. If you’re unsure whether your nationality is restricted, don’t worry — just reach out, and we’ll confirm everything for you.
Visa on Arrival
Issued at Queen Alia International Airport and most land or sea borders (excluding Allenby/King Hussein Bridge).
Typically valid for 30 days, with extension options.
Ideal for tourists, and often the easiest choice for short-term visits.
- Costs 40 JOD (approximately 56 USD), payable at the point of entry.
- Requires a passport valid for at least 6 months, a passport-sized photo, and your flight itinerary and hotel booking
Bonus: Stay two nights or more and provide your passport details in advance — and we can help arrange a free visa upon arrival.
Jordan Pass — What It Is and Why It’s Worth It
The Jordan Pass is a prepaid travel package designed to simplify your trip and save you money. By purchasing the pass before you arrive, you can waive the visa fee if you plan to stay in Jordan for three nights or more. Plus, it grants you entry to over 40 popular attractions across the country — including Petra, Wadi Rum, and Jerash.
This makes the Jordan Pass both a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers looking to explore Jordan’s top sites. Interested? Just ask us about adding the Jordan Pass to your travel package for a seamless experience.
What to Pack
Smart packing ensures a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here are key essentials to consider!
Travel Tip: For adventure-style journeys, we recommend contacting us for tailored packing advice to ensure you bring everything you need.
Clothing
Dress in light, breathable layers for warm days and cooler evenings.
Bring a light jacket or sweater — desert nights and winter months can get chilly.
Long sleeves and trousers help with sun protection and cultural respect at religious or rural sites.
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are a must for exploring Petra, Wadi Rum, and other rugged terrain.
- Swimsuit — ideal for the Dead Sea, hotel pools, or snorkeling in Aqaba.
Accessories
Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for strong sun exposure.
A lightweight scarf or shawl — useful for sun, wind, or visiting religious sites.
A compact daypack to carry water, camera, and daily essentials while exploring.
- Ziplock bags or packing cubes — for organizing clothes and protecting electronics from dust.
- Travel pillow — for comfortable rest during flights or long drives.
Gadgets
Universal power adapter (Type C, D, F, G) — Jordan uses 230V/50Hz; bring an adapter to stay charged.
Portable power bank — handy for long tours or when outlets aren’t nearby.
Camera or good smartphone camera — capture Jordan’s beauty.
Chargers and cables — bring backups for all devices.
Headphones or earbuds — ideal for flights and downtime.
Waterproof phone case or dry bag — perfect for Dead Sea or Aqaba trips.
Health
- Personal medications — enough for the entire trip.
- Sunscreen – a high SPF is recommended for effective sun protection.
- Lip balm and moisturizing lotion — the desert air can be very drying.
- Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes – useful for travel days, markets, and remote areas.
- Rehydration salts or electrolyte tablets – helpful for hot days or active hikes.
- Insect repellent – especially useful in spring/summer or near water.
Currency & Payment
Here’s what you need to know about using money in Jordan—currency, cards, cash, and where to exchange.
Travel Tip: Ask your guide to recommend trusted currency exchange shops for the best rates and reliability.
Local Currency
Jordan’s official currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Banknotes come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 dinars, with both old and new versions in circulation. Coins are used for smaller amounts.
Exchange Rate
The Jordanian Dinar is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of about 1 USD = 0.71 JOD (approximately 1 JOD = 1.4 USD), ensuring stable exchange.
ATMs and Cash Access
ATMs are widely available in major cities, tourist areas, and airports, accepting most international cards. Carry cash for smaller vendors and remote areas.
Currency Exchange
Exchange offices are common, with fees typically ranging from 1% to 3%. Comparing rates before exchanging is recommended.
Credit and Debit Cards
Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but cash is often preferred in markets and rural areas.
Prices in Jordan — What to Expect
Jordan is among the more expensive countries in the Middle East, with prices in tourist areas averaging around 80% of those in North America, Europe, and Oceania, and about 60% in non-tourist areas. While generally more affordable than many Western destinations, travelers should be prepared for higher costs compared to neighboring countries. When booking through a travel agency like Eximious Jordan, most major expenses—such as accommodation, transport, guides, escorts, and sometimes meals—are typically included in the package. However, there are still some common personal expenses travelers should anticipate. Here’s a clear breakdown:
Food & Dining: Fine dining in Jordan typically costs 50–60% of what you’d pay in North America, Europe, or Oceania, offering exceptional quality at a more accessible price. Local meals and street food are even more budget-friendly — often around 30% of international prices.
Personal expenses & optional activities: Such personal expenses—like laundry, spa treatments, or extra excursions (hot air ballooning, camel rides, etc.)—vary based on your package and preferences and can add about 5–20% to your additional spending outside the package.
SIM card or extra data: packages in Jordan cost 10–30 JOD (14–42 USD) for calls, data, or international minutes, valid 7–30 days with ample data for travelers.
Souvenirs: Jordan offers a variety of souvenirs—from handmade crafts and textiles to mosaics and jewelry. Prices vary depending on your preferences, authenticity, and craftsmanship.
Entry fees not included: Rare, but some packages may not cover all site entries (though Eximious Jordan usually includes them).
Language & Communication
Arabic is the official language of Jordan, while basic English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. Most guides and drivers provided by Eximious Jordan are fluent in both Arabic and English, ensuring smooth communication throughout your trip.
Need help with translation or communication on the ground? Your guide, driver, or escort from Eximious Jordan is here to assist anytime.
Connectivity & SIM Cards
From Petra to Wadi Rum to Amman, staying connected in Jordan is easy — with strong mobile coverage across cities and most tourist sites, even in the desert.
Travel Tip: Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafes, with good speeds for streaming and calls. Eximious Jordan’s transport also offers reliable connectivity for staying online on the move.
Where to Get a SIM Card
At the airport: Right after arrival at Queen Alia International Airport — fast and easy setup.
In cities: SIMs are widely available at malls, phone shops, and even convenience stores.
We can help: Ask your guide, driver, or airport representative — we’re happy to assist with SIM card setup.
What You’ll Need
Your passport
An unlocked phone
Choose a package based on how long you’ll stay and how much data you need
SIM Card Packages
Depending on the package you choose — whether it’s for calls, internet, or international minutes — prices typically range from 10 to 30 JOD (about 14 to 42 USD). Most packages are valid for 7 to 30 days and include generous data bundles suitable for travelers.
Guides, Escorts and Drivers
At Eximious Jordan, we believe that the people who accompany you are just as important as the places you visit. That’s why we work exclusively with top-tier licensed guides, professional escorts, and experienced drivers — each playing a vital role in creating a smooth, enriching, and memorable journey.
Licensed Guides
Our licensed tour guides are storytellers, historians, and cultural ambassadors. They’re deeply knowledgeable about Jordan’s archaeological sites, religious landmarks, and living traditions. With fluent English (and other languages on request), they bring each destination to life with insight, passion, and professionalism — whether you’re exploring Petra, Jerash, or the hidden wonders of the north and south.
Travel Tip for Private Travelers: For private travelers, we at Eximious Jordan recommend booking a licensed guide in advance for the best experience. At major sites like Petra and Jerash, those who haven’t pre-booked often rely on local site guides assigned on a rotation basis. While many are excellent, quality can vary. If a rotation-based guide is needed, your escort or driver will assist in selecting the best available on the day based on our trusted network. For private travelers without a guide, we highly recommend choosing our VIP escort service, which offers more than transportation — assisting with logistics, providing cultural context, helping with local communication, and ensuring every part of your journey is supported with personalized care.
Travel Info For small and Large Groups: Regulations require a dedicated guide to accompany your group throughout the journey. At Eximious Jordan, we ensure only our most experienced and knowledgeable guides are assigned to provide a seamless and enriching experience.
VIP Escorts & Drivers
While we engage only highly skilled and professional drivers, our VIP escorts offer private travelers a uniquely enhanced experience that goes far beyond transportation. Fluent in English and deeply knowledgeable about Jordan’s culture, history, and landmarks, they provide invaluable support throughout your journey. While they don’t replace formal licensed guides at major archaeological sites, VIP escorts are ideal for private travelers who haven’t booked a guide — offering insight, flexibility, and assistance that a standard driver simply cannot.
Here’s why this service is especially recommended for private travelers:
- Informed Context: They share meaningful background on Jordan’s culture, history, and geography during travel and sightseeing.
- Support with Site Logistics: They help select and coordinate local guides at major sites like Petra, Jerash, and Mount Nebo, ensuring the best available experience.
- Concierge-Like Service: From hotel check-ins and restaurant bookings to real-time itinerary adjustments, they handle the details so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
- Communication & Cultural Bridge: Fluent in English, they assist with translation and cultural interaction, especially in rural areas or off-the-beaten-path experiences.
- Safety & Comfort: Trained in hospitality and available 24/7, they offer dependable support—ideal for solo travelers, couples, and senior guests.
Note: VIP escort services are only available to private travelers. For small and large groups, Jordanian tourism regulations require a licensed guide to accompany the group throughout the journey. In these cases, Eximious Jordan ensures that only our most experienced, knowledgeable guides are assigned.
Health & Safety
Jordan is one of the safest and most welcoming countries to visit in the Middle East.
Hospitality is a core part of the culture, and travelers — especially those with a guide or escort — often feel not just safe, but genuinely cared for.
Travel Tip: At Eximious Jordan, your safety and comfort come first. Our guides, escorts, and drivers are trained to assist with everything from navigating busy sites to handling unexpected situations. If you ever feel unsure or need help — just ask. We’re here for you every step of the way.
General Safety
- Jordan enjoys political stability and a low crime rate, especially in tourist areas.
- Violent crime is extremely rare; petty theft is uncommon but always worth guarding against with usual precautions.
- Solo travelers, including women, generally report feeling safe throughout the country.
Health & Medical Care
- No vaccinations are required for entry into Jordan.
- Travel insurance that covers health care is strongly recommended.
- Pharmacies are easy to find and usually have English-speaking staff.
- Hospitals and clinics in major cities offer modern care with English-speaking doctors.
Desert Travel & Heat
- Dehydration and sun exposure are the most common issues for visitors — especially in Wadi Rum and Petra.
- Always have a water bottle with you, wear breathable clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly — especially when exploring sunny sites like Petra or Wadi Rum.
Pro Tip: Our team always ensures water and rest stops are available — and VIP escorts are trained to support seniors or travelers with mobility needs in heat-prone areas.
Emergency Support
- Jordan’s national emergency number is 911.
- Your guide, driver, or escort is your first line of assistance and will handle most unexpected situations on your behalf.
- We also provide 24/7 support through our team for urgent needs.
Food Safety & Hygiene
Jordan has high standards of hygiene, especially in hotels, established restaurants, and popular food spots. Still, here are a few tips to stay comfortable:
Drink bottled or filtered water, especially in rural areas.
Street food is generally safe in busy areas with high turnover — trust your guide’s recommendation.
Peel fruit yourself if buying from markets.
Avoid raw dairy or undercooked meat unless at trusted venues.
Travel Tip: If you have dietary restrictions or food allergies, just let us know in advance — our team and guides are happy to help coordinate with restaurants.
Smart Site Tips
How to explore Jordan’s top sites with confidence, respect, and ease.
Jordan’s most famous sites — like Petra, Jerash, and Wadi Rum — are filled with wonder, but they’re also active, often busy places where smart habits can make all the difference. These on-the-ground tips will help you avoid common pitfalls, stay comfortable, and enjoy a smoother, more enriching experience.
Follow Your Guide’s Lead and Your Escort’s and Driver’s Advice
Jordan’s famous sites can be busy and with lots happening at once. At Eximious Jordan, our licensed guides, VIP escorts, and drivers know the best routes and timing to help you avoid crowds and enjoy every moment. Always follow their advice — it’s your key to a smooth, safe, and memorable visit.
Say No with Confidence
Jordan is more relaxed than many destinations, but offers for camel rides, souvenirs, or photos can still be persistent. A polite but firm “No, thank you” with a smile works best. Avoid eye contact, long replies, or phrases like “maybe later” — they’re often taken as encouragement to keep trying.
Stick to the Plan
Remember the meeting point and time given by your guide or escort. Sites like Petra are vast — it’s easy to get distracted or lose the group.
Embrace the Quiet Corners
Some of Jordan’s most special moments happen away from the crowds. Ask your guide about scenic detours, peaceful lookouts, or hidden paths for a deeper connection.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off — a pushy vendor, a crowded spot, or someone too assertive — trust your gut. Step away or ask your guide or escort for help. Your safety and comfort come first.
Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly, speak kindly, and follow cultural cues — especially at religious sites or rural areas. Respect is always appreciated.
Shopping & Souvenirs
Jordan offers a rich variety of authentic souvenirs—from handmade crafts and textiles to intricate mosaics, ceramics, and beautiful jewelry. While many items are locally made, some souvenirs may be imported from neighboring countries. At Eximious Jordan, we encourage supporting local artisans by choosing authentic Jordanian products that reflect the country’s unique heritage and craftsmanship.
Prices and Quality
Souvenir prices vary based on your preferences, authenticity, and craftsmanship. Genuine, locally made pieces tend to be more valuable and meaningful, while mass-produced or imported items can be more affordable but less unique.
Shopping Tips
Ask your guide, driver, or escort for recommendations on trusted shops and markets that offer the best quality, fair prices, and authentic products.
Bargaining is common in markets — always approach negotiations politely and respectfully. With good bargaining, a 10–20% discount is often possible.
Seek out shops that support local artisans or provide authenticity certificates to ensure you’re buying genuine Jordanian crafts.
Trusted high-quality bazaars often feature on-site workshops, accept electronic payments, and offer international shipping with insurance. Ask your guide or escort to point these out for a smooth and reliable shopping experience.
Popular Souvenirs
Mosaic art and ceramics
Dead Sea skincare products
Handwoven rugs and textiles
Traditional embroidery (thobes, scarves, cushions)
Arabesque furniture and inlaid woodwork
Silver and gold jewelry with traditional designs
Decorated ostrich eggs
Olive wood carvings
Tipping in Jordan
Tipping isn’t mandatory in Jordan, but it’s deeply rooted in the culture — expected and appreciated across the travel industry. Guides, escorts, drivers, and hospitality staff often rely on tips as a significant part of their income.
You should never feel pressured to tip beyond what feels fair or reflects your satisfaction. That said, generosity is warmly received — especially when service exceeds expectations. Thoughtful tipping is a meaningful way to show appreciation for excellent care and hospitality.
To help you navigate tipping in Jordan, here are general guidelines based on local norms. These reflect what’s commonly appreciated — and often the minimum that tourism workers rely on. Feel free to adjust based on the service and your comfort:
General Guidelines
Restaurants: 5–10% or about 5 JOD per person for private travelers, 3 JOD per person for groups.
Hotel Staff: 1–2 JOD for bellhops, housekeeping, and porters per person.
Drivers: 20–30 JOD per day for private travelers; 30–40 JOD per day for small groups; and 40–50 JOD per day for large groups, depending on the length and quality of service.
Guides: 25–35 JOD per day for private travelers; 35–50 JOD per day for small groups; and 40–60 JOD per day for large groups, varying with group size and service excellence.
VIP Escorts: 25–35 JOD per day for private travelers, reflecting their extensive support, personalized care, and 24/7 availability.
Local Site Guides: 10–20 JOD for short tours at specific sites like Petra or Jerash.
Travel Tip: If you’re unsure, your Eximious Jordan escort or guide can discreetly advise you on appropriate tipping in different situations.
Travel Essentials: Your Ultimate Jordan Guide by Eximious Jordan
Planning your journey to Jordan? Eximious Jordan’s Travel Essentials guide provides all the practical information you need — from visa requirements and packing tips to safety advice and connectivity details. It’s designed to help you travel smoothly and confidently.
Download the guide now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!