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Jordan

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Ancient wonders meet desert landscapes

Jordan is a country in Western Asia where ancient history meets modern life. Its capital, Amman, has Roman ruins and bustling markets alongside new cafes and art galleries. The Dead Sea sits below ground level with salty water that lets people float easily. Petra’s carved stone buildings show the skill of an old civilization. Wadi Rum’s red sand dunes offer desert treks by camel or jeep. Jordan shares borders with Israel, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Syria. Many religious sites attract visitors from around the world.

Country
Climate zone: Hot steppe

Hot steppe: Semi-arid climates bordering hot deserts, with hot summers, limited rainfall and short grasses or shrubs dominating vegetation.

See climate table
Price level: $$$
$Cheap
$$Medium
$$$Expensive, upscale
$$$+Very expensive, luxury

Note: There can be large regional differences in price levels within a country. Be sure to check the price data of individual cities or regions to get a more detailed view.

See price details
Safety: 7.8
General Safety:9
Health & medical:8
Accessibility:3
Tap water:3
Read details
Tourist English: 3/5
English proficiency varies across Jordan. In tourist areas, hotels, and major attractions, good English is common. Many educated Jordanians speak English well, especially in Amman and Aqaba, though communication may be more limited in rural areas.
Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Jordan Summary

These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.

‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.

‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.

‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.

Read how our scores work
Outstanding for desert landscapes and ancient history. Explore Petra’s rock-carved ruins, camp in Wadi Rum deserts, float in the Dead Sea and visit Roman ruins and historic cities.
Place score
8.0
Best at:
Ruins
9
Pilgrimage
9
Deserts
8
Guided tours
8
Hiking
8
Personal score
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Suited for
👶 6
Families
🧓 5
Seniors
👩 8
Solo
❤️ 8
Couples
Jordan – Quick facts
Power Grid: 230 V, 50 Hz
Plug: Type C , Type D
Type C:
Diagram of a Type C power plug
Type D:
Diagram of a Type D power plug

Read about power adapters
Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
£1 ≈ JOD 0.944
Cashless info: Rating 4/5
Cashless payment options are available in Jordan, especially in urban areas like Amman. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Mobile payment options are also becoming popular.

Save with a travel credit card
eSIM providers: Best value: Saily
Flexibility: Airalo
Read our in-depth comparison
Tipping: Tipping in Jordan is common and appreciated. In restaurants, a 10% tip is usually expected, and taxi drivers typically expect a small tip or rounding up of the fare.
Public drinking: Public drinking is allowed in Jordan but is generally restricted to licensed venues such as bars, restaurants, and hotels. Public consumption of alcohol is not widespread.
Public smoking: Smoking is allowed in public places but is restricted in certain indoor areas like restaurants and public transport. Smoking areas are available in many public buildings.
Jordan Independence Day
(25 May)
A national holiday celebrated with events and parades
Eid al-Fitr
(Varies)
A religious holiday marking the end of Ramadan, celebrated with feasts and gatherings
Emergency contact: Emergency Number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
Taxi apps: Careem, Uber
Other: Jordan is known for its ancient historical sites, such as Petra and the Dead Sea. The country offers rich cultural experiences but requires caution due to the regional political situation.
Best times to travel

The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.

Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.

Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.

Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.

Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.

for Jordan, Jordan
☀️
Jan
☀️
Feb
☀️
Mar
☀️
Apr
🔥
May
🔥
Jun
🔥
Jul
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Aug
🔥
Sep
🔥
Oct
☀️
Nov
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Dec
High season: March - May, Oct.
Shoulder season: Feb., Sep., Nov. - Dec.
Crowdedness: 6 (Many tourists)
Tap on a month for more info Hover over a month for more info
Climate varies by region: Petra, Amman and Wadi Rum are best in spring and autumn, Aqaba and the Dead Sea are pleasant October to April, and summers are very hot everywhere
Flash floods can close Petra's Siq and canyon trails such as Wadi Mujib, mainly October to April
Ramadan: daytime food options limited, many restaurants closed until sunset

Why travel to Jordan?

Jordan's appeal lies in its remarkable historical treasures and diverse natural beauty. The country boasts some of the world's most impressive archaeological sites, including the ancient city of Petra carved into rose-colored cliffs, alongside breathtaking natural wonders like the Dead Sea and the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Beyond the famous attractions, you'll find warm hospitality, delicious cuisine and a rich cultural heritage that spans thousands of years. However, travelers should be prepared for certain challenges. The climate can be extreme, with summer temperatures often exceeding 35°C in many regions and reaching nearly 40°C in the Jordan Valley. Water scarcity is a significant issue, so being mindful of consumption is important. While major tourist areas have good infrastructure, facilities in more remote regions can be basic. Despite these considerations, Jordan's historical significance, natural beauty and the genuine warmth of its people make it a rewarding destination.

🏙️Cities & Regions
  • 1 Amman
    Capital city of Jordan offers a blend of ancient heritage and modern amenities. From the Roman amphitheater at Jerash to the bustling souks, Amman showcases historic sites, contemporary art galleries and a vibrant culinary scene.
  • 2 Wadi Musa
    This ancient site in Jordan's Wadi Musa serves as biblical Midian, where Moses met Jethro. Visitors explore rock-cut tombs and historic ruins scattered across the valley floor. It remains a significant stop for travelers seeking historical depth away from crowded tourist hubs.
  • 3 Aqaba
    A dry, sunny Red Sea port in Jordan with consistent trade winds and warm beaches. The landscape is more desert than tropical, featuring dramatic rock formations along the northern coast and world-class diving spots near the shore.
  • 4 Jerash
    This Roman ruin in Jordan rivals Pompeii's scale yet retains haunting silence. Visitors often seek its grand colonnades, but exploring the quieter northern tombs offers a more intimate glimpse into this ancient city's layered history.
  • 5 Wadi Rum
    An oasis in Jordan's desert, Wadi Rum offers sweeping sandstone cliffs and ancient petroglyphs. Visitors can explore rock formations, ride camels or camp under a starlit sky, experiencing the region’s rugged beauty for adventurers and travelers.
🏯Places worth seeing
  • 1 Ajlun Castle
  • 2 Amman Citadel
  • 3 Madaba Map
  • 4 Mount Nebo
  • 5 Umm Qais
🎡Places for activities
  • 1 Petra
    Ancient ruins carved into sandstone cliffs, featuring a grand entrance and intricate tombs. The site spans multiple square kilometers of historical structures, water channels and dramatic rock formations along the Jordanian desert.
  • 2 River Jordan
  • 3 Zarqa
🏞️Natural landmarks
  • 1 Ajloun Forest Reserve
  • 2 Azraq Wetland Reserve
  • 3 Dana Biosphere Reserve
  • 4 Dead Sea
  • 5 Dibeen Forest Reserve
  • 6 `Emeq HaYarden
  • 7 Shaumari Wildlife Reserve
  • 8 Wadi Mujib
  • 9 Wadi Rum
  • 10 Wadi Zarqa Ma'in
🛍️Shopping
  • 1 Al-Abdali Mall
  • 2 City Mall
  • 3 Jordan River Foundation
  • 4 Mecca Mall
  • 5 Rainbow Street
  • 6 Souk Jara
🎈Events
  • Jerash Festival
  • Amman International Film Festival
  • Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival
  • Ramadan Celebrations
  • Eid al-Fitr
  • Eid al-Adha
  • Jordan Rally
  • Amman Jazz Festival
  • Christmas Celebrations (Madaba)
  • Dead Sea Ultra Marathon

Popular travel destinations in Jordan

Knowledge before you go

  • Get the Jordan Pass for Petra and 40+ sites.
  • Dress modestly; cover shoulders and knees to respect local conservative culture.
  • Hire a local guide in Petra early morning to avoid crowds and learn hidden histories.
  • Stay overnight in Wadi Rum Bedouin camp for stargazing and authentic zarb underground feast.

How to travel to Jordan

Most international visitors arrive in Jordan through Queen Alia International Airport near Amman, with some flights also operating to Aqaba's King Hussein International Airport. Jordan is accessible by land from neighboring countries, with border crossings from Israel/Palestine, Egypt and Saudi Arabia being the most commonly used. The Jordan Pass, available online before arrival, includes visa fees and entry to many attractions, offering good value for most tourists. As of March 2025, most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival, though it's advisable to check current requirements before traveling.

Access summary

  • Amman/Petra: Fly into Queen Alia (AMM); buses, taxis, tours onward.
  • Aqaba/Wadi Rum: Fly to Aqaba (AQJ) or drive from Amman via Desert Highway.
  • From neighbors (Israel, Saudi, Egypt): Use land borders or Red Sea ferries.

Where to stay in Jordan

Jordan offers accommodations for every budget, from international luxury chains in Amman and Aqaba to boutique hotels in historic buildings and Bedouin-style desert camps in Wadi Rum. In Petra, hotels cluster near the site entrance, ranging from budget to upscale options. Dead Sea resorts tend to be higher-end with spa facilities utilizing the mineral-rich waters. Budget travelers can find hostels in major cities, while mid-range hotels are widely available. During high season (March-May and September-November), accommodations in popular tourist areas should be booked well in advance.

How to get around Jordan

Getting around Jordan varies by region. In cities like Amman, taxis are the primary means of transportation, with ride-sharing apps also available. For intercity travel, JETT buses connect major destinations with comfortable service, while minibuses (servees) offer more frequent but less comfortable options. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring sites like Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea, though driving in Amman can be challenging. For remote desert areas, organized tours often provide the most practical transportation.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home

We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.

To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.

-29 %
Daily expenses in Jordan are around 29% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend considerably less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend

The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.

-4 %
Your exchange rate (GBP to JOD) is 4% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.

Travel costs

To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.

Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.

Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.

Daily cost summary

Travel style categories explained:

Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.

Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.

Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.

Backpacker Mid-range Luxury
💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation
£40
£98
£301
🏨 Accommodation per night, per person
£19
£45
£120
🍝 Food per day
£18
£49
£163
🚕 Transportation per day
£3
£5
£17
Food & Drink
🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person
£20
🍛 Lunch Set, per person
£4.90
🍟 Fast food combo
£5
🍝 Preparing your own food, per day
£6
☕ Cappuccino
£2.80
🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l
£5
Transportation
🚌 Public transport ticket
£0.55
🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi
£11
⛽ Petrol, 1 l
£1.05
Other
🎞️ Cinema ticket
£8
👩‍⚕️ Doctor's consult
£23
🤧 Cold medication
£4.50
💇 Basic haircut
£5

Safety information overview

General safety
9
Jordan is generally safe for tourists with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in crowded areas. The country maintains strong security measures, particularly in tourist zones. Border regions with Syria and Iraq should be avoided. Always respect local customs regarding dress and behavior.
Health & Medical
8
Major cities have good quality healthcare facilities, though services may be limited in rural areas. Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended. Heat-related illnesses are a risk during summer months. Stomach issues can affect travelers, so be cautious with food and water hygiene.
Accessi­bility
3
Accessibility varies widely across Jordan. Major hotels and newer tourist facilities offer some accessibility features, but historical sites, desert areas and older buildings present significant challenges for mobility-impaired travelers. Few public buildings have proper accessibility features.
Tap water
3
Tap water is generally not recommended for drinking throughout Jordan. Rely on bottled water with sealed caps, which is widely available and inexpensive. Water scarcity is a significant issue, so use water responsibly during your visit.

Packing recommendations for Jordan

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