Jordan FAQs

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Written by
Alesha Walton

Published on: August 9th, 2023

Last modified: November 2nd, 2023

We've compiled our list of most frequently asked questions to help you get prepared before your big adventure to Jordan. Please read through the questions, using the navigation bar on the left hand side of your page to move easily between the different sections.

Please note that requirements and advice can change so we do recommend you check in with your own travel insurer, doctor and relevant local embassies before embarking on your adventure.

Are there any entry requirements for Jordan?

 

Visas

Yes, visas are required for most nationalities entering Jordan. It is possible to arrange a visa before travel but we recommend that if you arrive by air, you can obtain your visa on arrival at the airport and our partners will assist you with this. If you arrive into Jordan over a land border (during a multi-country trip) you might be required to obtain your visa prior to arrival. Please check this with your travel designer or concierge at the time of booking your trip.

Passports

Your passport must have 6 months validity from the day of your arrival in Jordan.

We will confirm certain elements of your trip such as domestic flights, permits or train tickets using your current passport details. If a member of your party changes their name in their passport after booking (for example, through marriage or adoption) this could mean having to reissue important parts of the trip at an extra cost and subject to availability. 

Please note that requirements can change and we recommend that our guests contact the local embassy in the country where you live for the most recent and up to date information.

 

Do I need travel insurance?

 

Yes, once your trip is confirmed it is essential that you take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover you in case anything unexpected happens. 

We always recommend that our guests get the maximum level of coverage that you feel comfortable investing in. Read more about travel insurance for US travellers here and for travellers from other countries here.

Do I need to visit a travel doctor before my trip?

 

Yes, you should visit a travel doctor before your trip as they may recommend certain vaccinations or medications before or during travel. 

Some vaccines commonly recommended for travellers to the Middle East  include: Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies and Meningitis. 

What will I receive from Jacada before I depart?

 

Travel pack

Before you head off on your adventure you will be sent a travel pack. The travel pack is full of great information and is also a beautiful keepsake. It is not necessary to travel with vouchers or confirmations on your trip but we do recommend having a printed copy of your travel itinerary to hand when you arrive in Jordan.

Bon Voyage email

Around 2 weeks before you depart we will email you an electronic version of your travel pack including your domestic flight tickets. Once you’ve received this email your Travel Designer will reach out to arrange a time for you to talk on the phone to go over any last minute questions and talk you through the information we’ve sent over.

Do I need to bring the local currency?

 

The local currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar. This is a closed currency, which means it cannot be obtained outside of Jordan. It’s typically fairly simple to exchange GBP, USD, CAD, AUD and EUR on arrival. Exchanges and ATMs are available in larger towns and cities, where you will be able to withdraw the local currency.

US dollars are widely accepted in Jordan, although you might receive the change in local currency. It’s important that your notes are crisp and new with no damage. Debit and credit cards are accepted in large hotels and well-known restaurants but you will need to pay with cash in smaller establishments and markets. 

There are no ATMs available in Wadi Rum and Petra so make sure to have enough cash before travelling there. 

Can you tell me about tipping and etiquette in Jordan?

 

Tipping is customary in Jordan, in restaurants you can add 10 to 15% to your bill, checking that this is not already added to your bill.

Your guide can also be tipped and here’s a rough guide:

Approximately USD 25 per person per day (up to a total of USD 100 per day), and each of your drivers and field coordinators USD 10 per person per day (up to a total of USD 50 per day).

Some important notes for travel during Ramadan:

  • All sites will close at 5pm daily.
  • Street food is not available during Ramadan.
  • All restaurants will operate as normal and at 5* hotels, alcohol is usually available.
  • Guests to Jordan should be respectful in how they eat and drink in public streets, trying not to be too obvious.

 

What’s the weather like and how should I pack?

 

Dressing conservatively is seen as a sign of cultural respect in Jordan so we recommend that you dress in accordance with local customs. As a minimum shoulders and knees should be covered. Long trousers/skirts and long sleeved tops are preferable. When entering religious sites women may need to cover their head so it’s best to keep a scarf with you and wear your hair tied up. 

The climate in Jordan is, overall, hot and dry. Therefore it’s best to travel with thin, cotton clothing. The winter, November to February, will see a drop in temperature, particularly in desert regions at night, so it’s best to be prepared and bring warm layers of clothing. We recommend packing a sunhat, sunscreen and sunglasses. Please also remember to drink plenty of water while sightseeing. 

 

Should I make restaurant reservations?

 

We highly recommend that you make restaurant reservations in advance of your trip. Once your trip is confirmed you will be introduced to your concierge who will be able to assist you in not only making the reservations but also  making  recommendations based on your preferences.

How can I keep connected on my trip?

 

In Jordan the power plugs and sockets are of Type C,D,F,G and J. They use European round two and three pin plugs along with British square three pin plugs. The standard voltage is 230V and the standard frequency is 50HZ. If travelling from the US or Canada, you will need a converter or a combined power plug adapter / voltage converter.

Most high end hotels will offer wifi, although in more remote areas such as Wadi Rum or in smaller cafes or restaurants, wifi is limited.

Please contact your Jacada travel designer or concierge before your trip with any further questions.