Jordan
Ancient wonders rising from timeless desert landscapes
Jordan hits you like a revelation. One moment you're threading through the narrow canyon walls of the Siq, the next you're face-to-face with Petra's Treasury, carved from rose-red sandstone 2,000 years ago. But here's what the postcards don't tell you: Jordan isn't just about ancient ruins.
You'll float effortlessly in the Dead Sea's salt-heavy waters, camp under a blanket of stars in Wadi Rum's martian landscape, and haggle for spices in Amman's Rainbow Street markets. The country packs incredible diversity into a space smaller than South Carolina.
And the Jordanians? They'll invite you for tea before you've even asked for directions. This is a country where Bedouin hospitality isn't a tourist attraction — it's just Tuesday.
Explore the Region
Money-Saving Tips
- 1.The Jordan Pass (70-75 JOD) includes Petra entry plus 40+ other sites — it pays for itself if you're visiting more than just the Treasury
- 2.Haggling is expected in souks but not in restaurants or hotels — know when to negotiate and when to pay the posted price
- 3.ATMs are everywhere in cities but scarce in desert areas — withdraw cash in Amman or Aqaba before heading to Wadi Rum
- 4.Tipping 10% is standard at restaurants, but round up taxi fares and tip hotel staff 1-2 JOD for good service
- 5.Buy a local SIM card for 10 JOD rather than paying international roaming — Zain and Orange have good coverage even in Petra
- 6.Eat where locals eat — street food costs 2-4 JOD while tourist restaurants charge 15-25 JOD for similar dishes
- 7.Book desert camps directly rather than through tour companies to save 30-40% on accommodation costs
- 8.Many museums and sites offer student discounts with valid ID — always ask even if not posted
Travel Tips
- •Download offline maps before entering Wadi Rum — GPS signals get sketchy in the deep desert and you don't want to rely on camel navigation
- •Pack layers for desert camping — temperatures can drop 40 degrees between day and night, even in summer
- •Respect local dress codes especially at religious sites — cover shoulders and knees, and women should carry a headscarf
- •Learn basic Arabic greetings — 'Shukran' (thank you) and 'Marhaba' (hello) open doors and hearts
- •Book Petra at sunrise or sunset for the best photos and fewer crowds — the Treasury looks magical in golden hour light
- •Carry cash for small vendors and tips — many places outside Amman don't accept cards
- •Stay hydrated but don't overdo it before long desert drives — bathroom stops are limited between cities
- •Bring a good flashlight for exploring Petra's tombs and Treasury interior — phone lights don't cut it in the deeper chambers
- •Trust your Bedouin guides in Wadi Rum — they know desert survival techniques passed down through generations
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Jordan
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