Jordan, officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is one of the bucket list destinations that you cannot miss in the Middle East.

The country is filled with unique UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the rock city of Petra, the vast desert of Wadi Rum, and more. And not to forget, you can also float in the Dead Sea which is the lowest point on Earth!

Rich in history and culture, Jordan is home not just to the Roman ruins (Jerash) but also to biblical sites such as Mount Nebo, Al-Maghtas, and more. So, if you are interested to know more about Moses or wish to see the birth site of Jesus, then you must visit Jordan.

That’s not all, for adventure lovers, there are plenty of hiking trails in Dana or you can indulge in water activities at Aqaba. There is something for all kinds of travelers in Jordan.

Are you planning a trip to Jordan soon? If yes, then check out our Jordan Travel Guide to learn more about the best time to visit Jordan, where to go, entry fees, and more!

Best Time to Visit Jordan

Depending on what activities or attractions you are interested in, you can plan your trip to Jordan. Spring and Fall months are best for visiting Jordan as the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy flower bloom on several hikes and tours.

Here is a short breakdown of what to expect in different seasons:

1. Summer Season (May-August) – Although the temperature stays above 40 degrees Celsius in the desert area, it is a good time to visit highlands such as Amman and Aljoun. Plus, it is a good time for diving in Aqaba as well. However, Wadi Rum and Petra are hot during these months so, you will have to explore in the early mornings or evenings to avoid getting heat stroke or dehydration.
2. Winter Season (November – February) – Another time that is best avoided in Jordan is the winter season. The weather can be really cold during this time, with snowfall in highland areas such as Amman, Petra, etc. and winters are bone-chilling in Wadi Rum. However, this is also the least expensive time to visit and you won’t find any crowds while exploring the attractions.
3. Spring and Fall Seasons (March, April, September, October) – These are the peak months to visit Jordan as the weather is pleasant and most attractions are open. This also means that the prices are high for most tours and you will find lots of tourists at each location.

Passport and Visa Requirements

Passport

• The passport should be valid for 6 months from the date of entry.
• Keep one full empty page on the passport for the visa stamp.
• Your passport should be in good condition.

Visa

• Indians do not need a pre-approved visa to travel to Jordan.
• You can choose to get a visa on arrival, an e-visa, or a sticker visa for Jordan.
• The Visa Fee for a Single-Entry Tourist Visa for a maximum stay of up to 30 days is 40 JOD.

How to Apply for a Sticker Visa

If you wish to get a sticker visa for Jordan, then you will need to submit your visa application at the Embassy of Jordan in New Delhi.

Here are the documents required for the Sticker Visa:

• A valid passport 
• Photocopy of the passport information pages (both front and back)
• Fully completed and signed visa application form 
• Two 4 cm x 6 cm colored photos with a white background that is no older than 6 months.
• Cover letter explaining the purpose of the visit and details of the tour
• Confirmed Return Flight Tickets and Internal Tickets 
• Confirmed Hotel Bookings
• The last 6 months’ bank statements, attested and signed by the bank.

How to Apply for E-Visa

Indians are also eligible for Jordan e-Visa so, if you don’t want the hassle of submitting your Visa application to the embassy, then you can choose this option. Follow the below steps to apply for Jordan e-Visa:

1. Go to the official website https://moi.gov.jo/EN/Pages/Visa_E_Applications and click on the link for the relevant visa.
2. On the main page, choose your visa type and click on ‘Electronic Visa’ if you are a new user.
3. Choose whether you are applying for a visa as an Individual or an Organization and select your nationality. Fill out all the details.
4. Fill out the online visa application and make sure your details match those in the passport.
5. Once you have filled in all the information, pay the e-Visa fees which will also attract a 5% surcharge. If the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation.
6. After your application is processed, you will receive your e-visa. Take a printout of it and show it at immigration when traveling to Jordan.

You can also download the MOI Jordan app and create a visa application there. 

Are Indians Eligible for a Visa on Arrival?

As per the current visa statements of the Embassy of Jordan, Indians are eligible for a Visa on Arrival. However, there might be additional scrutiny and there are chances of visa refusal. 

So, make sure that you have a valid visa from the US, Canada, UK, Schengen country, or Australia when going for a Jordan Visa on Arrival. This will ensure a smoother immigration process. 

If you don’t have a visa from any of these countries, then I would suggest you get a sticker visa or e-visa to avoid the hassle.

Make sure to check with the Embassy of Jordan in India for updated information when planning to travel to Jordan. You can call or email them during their office hours for any queries.

How to Get Visa on Arrival for Jordan

To get a Visa on Arrival, keep the following documents ready to show at the immigration:

• Jordan Pass to waive your visa fee (you need to stay a minimum of 3 nights in Jordan to be eligible for this)
• Return flight tickets
• Proof of accommodation during the stay
• A valid passport that expires 6 months after you enter Jordan

Money in Jordan

Currency

The currency of Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD) and 1 Dinar is made up of 1000 fils.

You can get the bank notes in the denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 Dinars. As for the coins, those are available in the denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 fils. 

Apart from the Jordanian Dinar, the United States Dollar (USD) and Euro are also accepted here.

Money Exchange

Cash is king in Jordan, especially when you are exploring places such as Wadi Rum, Petra, etc. where ATMs are not easily available.

This is why I would recommend that you carry enough cash with you for your Jordan trip.

If you wish to avoid forex cash commission, then withdraw cash directly from the ATM. If carrying another currency, then you can easily exchange it for Jordanian Diner at the local banks or the exchange shops.

ATMs

You will find ATMs available in all towns and cities of Jordan. 

Be careful when withdrawing cash in Jordan and protect your Forex cards and Debit Cards at all times when in the country.

Credit Cards

Most hotels, restaurants, and cafes accept international Visa and Mastercard Credit Cards in Jordan. So, you can easily carry one to pay for most things. If you are planning to use Uber or Careem for cabs and online apps for ordering food, then you can pay using a credit card too.

So, if you run out of cash, you can get by with a credit card at most places.

Sim Card in Jordan

WiFi Network in Jordan

One thing I love about Jordan is that WiFi is great in the city and the speed is really fast. So, you can easily access social media to contact your loved ones or get some work done.

Airtel or JIO International Plans

Since most people plan a trip to Jordan for 7 days or less, there is not enough time to purchase a local SIM. In that case, you can simply buy the International Roaming Plan of Airtel or Jio. There are 1-day, 7-day, or 10-day plans available that you can choose from.

Local SIM

If you need lots of data in Jordan, then you can get a local SIM like Orange. You can get it for 15-50 JOD, depending on the plan. They can be easily bought at the airport, mobile phone stores, hotels, and more. 

Another good option is to get an e-SIM from operators such as Airalo, Holafly, etc. 

Best Places to Visit in Jordan

With a rich history and culture, Jordan is a country that is filled with some of the most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage sites. Here are some of the best places to visit in Jordan:

Petra – Popularly known as the ‘Rose City’, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that you cannot miss. This ancient city, carved by the Nabateans in the red sandstone cliffs is one of the 7 wonders of the world.

Wadi Rum – With its red sand dunes, Bedouin culture, and unique rock formations, Wadi Rum is a famous desert landscape that you must visit. Spend a night stargazing here after a day filled with adventure in the dunes and canyons.

Dead Sea – Don’t forget to visit the Dead Sea, the lowest point on the Earth. You can access it from one of the resorts and spend a day floating in it after enjoying a rejuvenating mud bath.

Amman – Amman is the capital city of Jordan where you can find both ancient and modern influences. The Citadel is the perfect place to learn the history of Jordan and enjoy stunning sunsets and city views in Amman.

Aqaba – For scuba diving and beach lovers, Aqaba is the perfect place to visit. Relax on the gorgeous beaches here, admire the beautiful corals, or explore some of the world’s best artificial wrecks while scuba diving in the Red Sea.

Jerash – If you haven’t been to Italy yet, then Jerash is your chance to get a glimpse into ancient Roman life. Explore the Roman city ruins here which include some of the most impressive structures such as the Hadrian’s Arch, Temple of Artemis, and so on.

Mount Nebo – Whether you wish to enjoy the panoramic views of Jordan, admire the ancient mosaics, or view the Holy Land proclaimed by Moses. Mount Nebo is a must-visit when in Jordan.

Al-Maghtas – Popularly known as the ‘Bethany Beyond the Jordan’, Al-Maghtas is another prominent UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is said to be the baptism site of Jesus, making it quite popular among history lovers. 

Madaba – Madaba is known as the ‘City of Mosaics’ and is quite popular for its Umayyad and Byzantine mosaics.

Dana Biosphere Reserve – For outdoor enthusiasts, Dana Biosphere Reserve in Jordan is the perfect destination. This is the largest nature reserve in the country and offers plenty of hiking trails, traditional villages, and wildlife sightseeing.

How to Travel in Jordan

InterCity Travel

Rental Cars – One of the best ways to travel around Jordan is by renting a car and driving to your chosen destinations. The roads in Jordan are good for driving and connect all the cities and towns. So, you can easily plan a fun road trip in Jordan.

Flights – If you are traveling between Aqaba and Amman, then a flight is quick to complete the journey. It would be expensive but you don’t have to spend 4-5 hours on the road. 

Buses – For solo and budget travelers, buses are a good choice but the options are quite limited. There are a few local buses and mini-buses that connect the nearby cities and towns but their timings are quite unreliable. You can also book a journey with Jett Bus which is reliable and convenient, although a little expensive. 

Taxis – If you don’t know how to drive but want the comfort of a private vehicle, then you can hire a taxi for your journey. You can easily get a car and a driver for a day tour or your complete trip to Jordan. This will be expensive but if you are more people traveling together, you can share the cost. Plus, for families, it is best to travel in a private vehicle as it allows more flexibility. 

City Travel

Taxis or Ride-Hailing Services – Inside cities such as Amman, you can get yellow taxis for exploring around the city. Alternatively, you can download the Uber or Careem app to book cabs online for your destination.

Cycling or Walking – In many cities, there is no public transportation available so you end up walking a lot. In places like Petra and Wadi Rum, you can choose to walk or pay for a camel ride, it is completely up to you.

Group Tours – The best way to explore a local city if you don’t have a rental is by booking a group tour. This way, you don’t have to worry about figuring out the transportation and can cover all the major sights with the help of a local guide. 

Foods to Eat in Jordan 

If you are a foodie, then you will love exploring the flavorful cuisine of Jordan. Some of the foods that you must try while exploring this country are:

1. Mansaf – Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan that you cannot miss. This traditional Bedouin meal is lamb cooked in a fermented dried yogurt sauce and is served over a bed of rice.
2. Maqluba – One of my absolute favorite dishes in Jordan was Maqluba, which means ‘upside down’. This is a one-pot dish made with rice, meat, and vegetables which is cooked together and then served upside down on a plate.
3. Knafeh – For dessert lovers, Knafeh is a must. Made with semolina dough then soaked in sugary syrup and finally layered with cream or cheese.
4. Zarb – Another Jordanian dish that is a must-try is Zarb. It is a traditional Bedouin barbecue in which lamb or chicken is marinated and cooked with vegetables in an underground pit.
5. Tabbouleh – Try the traditional salad of Jordan which is made from tomatoes, parsley, mint, onion, and bulgur. It is seasoned with lemon and olive oil.

Shopping in Jordan

Famous for mosaics and Dead Sea mud, shopping in Jordan is a complete delight.

In Amman, you can easily find souvenirs in the lane outside the Amphitheater. Here, you will find the most affordable fridge magnets, Dead Sea mud packs, and more to take home. 

Avoid purchasing products inside the attractions as they tend to sell at a higher cost. However, keep a lookout in Petra as sometimes they do sell 10 Jordan magnets for 3-4 JOD. 

Apart from the fridge magnets, you should check out mosaic art pieces in Madaba which is known as the ‘City of Mosaics’. From paintings to tables, you can find all kinds of mosaic pieces here that look stunning. 

Another popular item to buy in Jordan is Dead Sea skincare products such as scrubs, moisturizers, mud masks, and more. You can find these in stores all around the Dead Sea, Amman, and most tourist locations.

Some other items that you can buy from Jordan are bedouin handicraft items, keffiyehs (traditional scarves), olive wood items, traditional jewelry, and more. 

When shopping in Jordan, don’t forget to bargain and check the quality before purchasing. Also, do carry cash as most places don’t accept credit cards or charge a 3% fee for card payments.

Is Jordan Pass Really Worth It?

I found Jordan Pass to be useful as it not only waived the Visa Fees but also ensured that I didn’t have to wait in line for any tickets during my visit to Jordan.

A few benefits of buying the Jordan Pass are:

1. Visa Fee Waiver: If you are planning to spend at least 3 nights in Jordan, then Jordan Pass is best. You don’t need to pay a 40 JOD Visa fee anymore and can enjoy quick access to all the attractions. 
2. Cost-Saving: It also provides you access to over 40 attractions in Jordan including Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash, Aljoun, and more. Without the pass, the entry fee to Petra is 50 JOD for a day. So, if you add up the entry fee for all the major attractions, it can come out to be more than the Jordan Pass cost.
3. Convenience: Apart from not paying entry fees for several major attractions in Jordan, the pass also makes your entry simpler. You don’t have to wait in ticket queues anymore or buy separate tickets. 
4. Validity: One of the best things about the Jordan Pass is that it is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. So, if your plans change, the Pass is not wasted. Moreover, it becomes active upon your first use only after which it stays activated for 14 days, allowing you ample time to explore.

Jordan Pass Cost Breakdown

If you want a better comparison, check out the cost of the attractions in Jordan with and without the pass.

Jordan Pass Options

• Jordan Wanderer: 70 JOD (includes 1-day Petra visit)
• Jordan Explorer: 75 JOD (includes 2-day Petra visit)
• Jordan Expert: 80 JOD (includes 3-day Petra visit)

Costs without the Jordan Pass

• Visa Fee: 40 JOD
• Petra Entry: 50 JOD (1-day), 55 JOD (2-day), 60 JOD (3-day)
• Wadi Rum: 7 JOD (Recently, the price was increased and hasn’t been updated on the official websites)
• Jerash: 10 JOD
• Amman Attractions: The Jordan Museum (5 JOD), Roman Amphitheatre (2 JOD), Amman Citadel (3 JOD), and so on

Many more attractions in Jordan charge between 1 and 10 JOD that are included in the Jordan Pass. 

So, if you are planning to visit just a few major sites in Jordan, then you can enjoy a lot of savings with the Jordan Pass.

How to Buy Jordan Pass

To buy the Jordan Pass, visit the official website: https://jordanpass.jo/. Enter all your details here such as name, email ID, etc. along with your travel details and the ticket type you wish to buy. 

After that, you simply need to complete the payment using your international credit/debit card. Once the payment is successful, you will receive an email with your Jordan Pass and the digital brochure of the attractions. 

How to Use Jordan Pass 

Once you have bought the Jordan Pass, keep it ready as a printout or download it on your mobile phone. 

Scan the Pass at the entry or show it to the guard to enter the attraction. 

What Happens If You Don’t Stay for Three Nights in Jordan?

Please note that the Visa Fee for Jordan is only waived if you stay a minimum of 3 nights in Jordan. If you leave before this time, then you will have to pay 60 JOD when exiting from the country.

Should You Hire a Tour Guide/Company for Jordan?

On my solo trip to Jordan, I faced some issues so I have some insight into whether you should go for a package or plan your trip to Jordan. Transportation options are limited in Jordan and many locations require a private car to visit, so it can be difficult to plan the trip on your own. 

This is why I would recommend that you opt for a tour package or book a local guide when traveling to Jordan. Here are a few reasons why it is better to book a travel package for Jordan:

1. Itinerary Planning and Logistics – Although Jordan is a comparatively smaller country, there is still a lot to see here. A travel package will already share a detailed itinerary with you and take care of everything from accommodation to transport, to entry tickets. So, if you aren’t sure what to see in Jordan and how to book everything, booking a tour package is perfect.
2. Safe and Secure – In case of any emergencies, a travel company will provide you with a quick resolution to ensure a smooth trip. If you travel on your own, it might take longer to resolve a trip issue as you are mostly unaware of the local contacts to help you out.
3. Local Experiences – If you choose a travel package, you get to explore the country with a local guide who can give you insight into the local culture and experiences. Furthermore, they will take you to local offbeat attractions and ensure that you experience the traditional food and culture.
4. Stress-Free Travel – With the right tour company, you don’t have to worry about language barriers, visa process, and more. They help you with everything and ensure that you have an enjoyable trip.
5. Cost-Effective – Jordan is an expensive country to visit, especially if you are traveling solo. So, choosing a tour operator allows you to share the cost with other travelers (in group trips), making it more affordable for tourists. 

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance is not mandatory for visiting Jordan but I would recommend you still get it. 

In case of any unforeseen circumstances such as trip delays or cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost or stolen baggage, travel insurance can be useful. Your health insurance generally cannot cover medical emergencies out of the country and medical care can be a little expensive in Jordan.

This is why it is a good idea to get a good travel insurance package that covers everything. Make sure to check the coverage offered, exclusions, and the reliability of the travel insurance company.

If you don’t want the hassle of searching for good travel insurance, then you can simply ask your tour operator to book it in the package for you. 

If you want to book a trip with Travel LYKKE, then use my code ‘RACHITA‘ to get a discount on your next vacation.

For any queries, you can reach out to holidays@lykke.travel

About the Author – Rachita Saxena is an IT Engineer turned full-time travel blogger who left her job in 2018. Since then, she has traveled to over 20+ countries including Seychelles, Turkey, Jordan, and more. Over the years, she has worked with multiple tourism companies to share travel experiences with her followers. She is a qualified PAD Rescue Diver and has explored quite a bit of the underwater world. You can follow her journey on different social media platforms and her website MeanderWander.