Jordan Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Entry, Visas, and Logistics
Do I need a visa? Most nationalities do, but you can get it on arrival at the airport for 40 JD.
What is the Jordan Pass? It’s a pre-paid package covering your visa and entry to 40+ sites, including Petra.
Is the Jordan Pass worth it? Yes, if you stay at least 3 nights and plan to visit Petra, it pays for itself instantly.
Where do I buy the Jordan Pass? Online before you arrive. You must show it at the border to waive the visa fee.
Can I use the Jordan Pass at the land borders? Yes, but check current regulations if entering from Israel/Palestine as rules fluctuate.
Is it safe to visit right now? Jordan remains a “stable oasis.” While neighboring regions have conflict, life in Jordan continues normally.
What is the best time to visit? Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) for mild weather.
Is summer too hot? It can hit 40°C (104°F) in the desert. If you go, start your days at 6:00 AM.
Is winter worth it? It’s cold and can even snow in Amman or Petra, but there are zero crowds.
Do I need a physical SIM card? You can get an e-SIM or buy a physical Zain/Orange card at the airport (cheaper than roaming).
Can I drink tap water? No. Stick to bottled or filtered water.
What’s the currency? Jordanian Dinar (JD or JOD). It is pegged to the US Dollar ($1 = 0.71 JD).
Are ATMs widely available? Yes, in cities. In Wadi Rum, bring cash.
Do I need to tip? “Baksheesh” is common. 10% in restaurants is standard if not included.
Is English widely spoken? Yes, especially in the tourism sector and Amman.
What should I wear? Jordan is conservative. Both men and women should aim to cover shoulders and knees in public.
Do women need to cover their hair? Only when entering a mosque.
Is it safe for solo female travelers? Generally yes. You will get attention, but it’s rarely threatening. Use common sense.
How do I get from the airport to Amman? Use the Airport Bus (Sariyah) or an Uber/Careem.
Is Uber available? Yes, Uber and Careem (the local version) work well in Amman.
Transportation and Driving
Should I rent a car? Highly recommended. It gives you freedom that buses don’t.
Is driving in Jordan difficult? Amman is chaotic, but the highways (Desert Highway and King’s Highway) are straightforward.
Do I need an International Driving Permit? Technically yes, though some rentals accept a valid Western license. Better to have it.
What are the roads like? Generally good, but watch out for “speed bumps” in the middle of highways.
Is there public transport? JETT buses are reliable and go between major tourist hubs.
What about local minibuses? They are cheap but have no set schedule; they leave when full.
Is the King’s Highway better than the Desert Highway? The Desert Highway is faster; the King’s Highway is scenic and historic.
Can I drive to Wadi Rum? You drive to the Visitor Center or a parking lot, then the camp picks you up in a 4×4.
Are there gas stations everywhere? On main roads, yes. Keep your tank at least half full in the south.
Is it safe to drive at night? Not recommended due to unlit roads, wandering camels, and speed bumps.
Petra
How many days do I need for Petra? Two days is the “sweet spot.” One is exhausting; three is for history buffs.
When does Petra open? 6:00 AM. Be there then to beat the crowds and the heat.
What is “Petra by Night”? A candlelit walk to the Treasury with music. It’s polarizing—some love it, others find it “touristy.”
Does the Jordan Pass cover Petra by Night? No, it’s a separate ticket (17 JD).
Should I take a donkey or camel ride? Reddit consensus: No. Animal welfare is a concern, and the “free” rides often demand huge tips.
What is the “Backdoor” to the Monastery? A hike starting near Little Petra that arrives at the Monastery first, avoiding the 800 steps up.
Is the hike to the High Place of Sacrifice worth it? Yes, for the best panoramic views of the entire site.
Can I see the Treasury from above? Yes, via the Al-Khubtha trail (the “official” way) or “shortcuts” offered by locals (for a fee).
Is there food inside Petra? Yes, but it’s expensive. Pack snacks and plenty of water.
Where should I stay? Wadi Musa is the town right outside Petra. Stay as close to the Visitor Center as possible.
What is the “Siq”? The narrow canyon entrance to Petra. It’s about 1.2km long.
Are there bathrooms in Petra? Yes, scattered along the main route.
Is Petra wheelchair accessible? Only the main path to the Treasury via a golf cart service (for a fee).
What shoes should I wear? Sturdy hiking shoes or very supportive sneakers. The terrain is rocky and sandy.
How much is a one-day ticket without the Jordan Pass? 50 JD.
Can I visit Petra on a day trip from Amman? Yes, but it’s a 3-hour drive each way. It’s a long day.
Is Little Petra worth seeing? Yes, it’s free and a great “appetizer” before the main site.
Is there a dress code for Petra? Practicality over fashion. Breathable fabrics and sun protection.
Can I fly a drone in Petra? No. Drones are strictly regulated/banned for tourists in Jordan.
What is the “Monastery”? Ad Deir. It’s larger than the Treasury but requires a long hike/climb.
Wadi Rum
How long should I stay in Wadi Rum? One night is standard; two nights allows for deeper desert exploration.
Should I book a “Martian Dome”? They are expensive but offer AC and glass walls. Standard Bedouin tents are more authentic.
What’s included in a desert tour? Usually a 4×4 tour, sunset viewing, dinner (Zarb), and breakfast.
Is there Wi-Fi in the desert? Rarely. Embrace the “digital detox.”
Is it cold at night? Yes, even in summer, the desert temperature drops significantly.
What is “Zarb”? A traditional Bedouin meal cooked in an underground oven.
Can I hike on my own in Wadi Rum? Only near the village. For the deep desert, you need a guide so you don’t get lost.
Is there a limit on water in the camps? Most camps have showers, but be mindful—water is trucked in.
Can I see the Milky Way? Yes, Wadi Rum is one of the best stargazing spots on Earth.
Do I need to book in advance? Yes, especially for highly-rated camps.
Dead Sea and Wadi Mujib
Where should I stay at the Dead Sea? The “Resort Strip” on the northern end. Crowne Plaza and Marriott are popular.
Can I visit for just a day? Yes, many hotels offer “Day Passes” to use their beach and showers.
Is there a free public beach? There are “wild” spots, but they lack showers. You need a shower to wash off the salt.
How long can I float? 10–15 minutes at a time. The salt is intense.
Does the water sting? Yes. Do not shave for 2 days before, and keep the water out of your eyes and mouth.
What is Wadi Mujib? An incredible water canyon hike (Siq Trail) where you scramble over rocks and waterfalls.
When is Wadi Mujib open? Usually April to October (closed in winter due to flash flood risk).
Do I need to be fit for Wadi Mujib? You should be comfortable with waist-deep water and pulling yourself up ropes.
Can I take my phone in Wadi Mujib? Only in a very high-quality waterproof bag.
What are the Baptism Site (Bethany Beyond the Jordan) rules? You must take a guided shuttle tour; you cannot walk around freely.
Amman and the North
How many days for Amman? 1–2 days is enough for the main sites.
What are the “must-sees” in Amman? The Citadel (Jabal al-Qal’a) and the Roman Theatre.
Where is the best food in Amman? Hashem (falafel/hummus) and Habibah (for Kunafa dessert) are legendary.
What is Rainbow Street? A tourist-friendly street with cafes, shops, and nightlife.
Is Jerash worth the trip? Absolutely. It is one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the world.
How far is Jerash from Amman? About 50 minutes by car.
What is Ajloun? A 12th-century Muslim castle with great views of the Jordan Valley.
What is Madaba known for? Its ancient mosaics, particularly the 6th-century Map of the Holy Land.
Is Mount Nebo important? It’s where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land. Great views on clear days.
What are the Desert Castles? A loop east of Amman featuring Umayyad-era lodges and hunting villas.
Food and Culture
What is the national dish? Mansaf (lamb cooked in fermented dried yogurt, served with rice).
Is alcohol available? Yes, in Amman, Aqaba, and some hotels. It’s not available in the “holy” cities or many local spots.
Is Jordan expensive? It’s more expensive than Egypt or Turkey, but cheaper than Western Europe.
Can I find vegetarian food? Yes! Hummus, falafel, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh are everywhere.
What is the coffee culture like? Strong Arabic coffee with cardamom or sweet mint tea is the social glue.
How do I say “Thank you”? “Shukran.”
Should I haggle? In souks (markets) and for taxis, yes. In restaurants and malls, no.
What is a “Shemagh”? The traditional red-and-white checkered scarf. It’s great for sun and dust protection.
Is it okay for a non-local to wear a Shemagh? Yes, Jordanians generally view it as a sign of respect for their culture.
What is “Maqluba”? A delicious “upside-down” chicken and rice dish.
Random Tips & Safety
Is the water in Aqaba good for diving? Yes, the Red Sea has excellent coral reefs and wreck diving.
Can I cross to Israel from Jordan? Yes, via three border crossings, but check visa requirements for both sides.
What is the emergency number? 911.
Are there many scams? Compared to other tourist hubs, Jordan is low-scam. Watch out for “free” help in Petra.
Should I bring a power adapter? Jordan uses Type C, D, F, G, and J. A universal adapter is a must.
Can I use my drone? Again, no. It will likely be confiscated at the airport.
Is Friday a weekend? Yes, Friday and Saturday are the weekend. Friday morning is very quiet; many shops open late.
Do I need travel insurance? Yes, especially for activities like Wadi Mujib or desert trekking.
Is Google Maps accurate? Mostly, but always verify routes with locals if heading into remote areas.
What is the one thing I shouldn’t miss? The hospitality. If a local invites you for tea, it’s usually genuine, not a sales pitch (outside of Petra).