Jordan is a captivating destination, renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming people. Whether you're exploring the ancient city of Petra, experiencing the desert of Wadi Rum, or navigating the bustling streets of Amman, having the right transportation and guiding services is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable trip. This article provides a detailed guide on the roles of drivers and tour guides in Jordan, covering both small groups and larger tour parties. Whether you’re planning a private getaway or a group tour, this guide will help you understand your options and make the most of your experience in Jordan.
For groups of 1-6 people traveling in Jordan, an experienced, English-speaking driver (or a driver in Spanish, French, Italian, etc., based on availability) will accompany you, primarily for transportation between destinations.
While your driver is not an officially licensed tour guide, they will provide invaluable assistance throughout your journey.
The driver’s primary responsibility is to facilitate smooth transfers, including pick-ups and drop-offs. They will not accompany you inside the sites but can provide general information about Jordan, suggest dining options, and recommend places to visit.
For well-known sites such as Petra and Jerash, local guides are typically included to provide on-site expertise. In Wadi Rum, a local Bedouin escort will accompany you during your jeep tour.
If desired, you can hire a local guide at specific sites. Alternatively, a full-time, government-licensed guide is available at an additional cost of approximately $120–$140 per day (price varies depending on language and season), along with an upgraded vehicle. This guide will accompany you throughout your journey, offering deeper insights into Jordan’s history, culture, and heritage.
According to the regulations of the visitor centers at Petra, Jerash, and the Amman Citadel, the use of local guides is mandatory for groups traveling with a tour agency. This requirement is automatically included in your quotation.
English: Available with most guides.
Other Languages: Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Hungarian, Russian, Romanian, Indonesian, Chinese (translators only), Dutch, and Czech. These guides are limited and subject to availability. If a guide in your preferred language is unavailable, an English-speaking guide will be provided. Booking in advance is recommended for non-English guides.
Self-Guided: Ideal for travelers who enjoy exploring independently at their own pace. This option provides flexibility while allowing you to experience Jordan on your terms.
Partially Guided: For major sites like Petra, Jerash, and Wadi Rum, local guides are provided to ensure you gain in-depth knowledge of these significant landmarks.
Full-Time Licensed Guide (Optional): For a more immersive experience, you can opt for a full-time, government-licensed guide at an additional cost of approximately $120–$140 per day (depending on language and season). A vehicle upgrade may be required, with pricing available upon request.
A common question when planning a trip to Jordan is whether hiring a guide is necessary. Given the country's rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes, a guide can enhance your experience. However, the decision depends on your travel style and preferences.
Local Expertise: A knowledgeable guide provides historical context, cultural insights, and a deeper understanding of the sites you visit.
Language Assistance: While English is widely spoken, a guide can assist with Arabic language nuances, enhancing communication with locals.
Efficient Navigation: Traveling in Jordan can be challenging due to winding streets and remote sites. A guide simplifies logistics, maximizing your time.
Safety and Comfort: A guide ensures safety, particularly in remote areas like the desert, while also handling unexpected situations with ease.
Flexibility: Traveling solo allows you to set your own itinerary, make spontaneous changes, and spend more time in places that interest you.
Cost-Effectiveness: Avoiding the additional cost of a guide can make your trip more budget-friendly, allowing you to allocate funds elsewhere.
Authentic Experiences: Exploring independently often leads to deeper, more personal interactions with locals and opportunities for cultural exchange.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your preferences. If you value convenience, historical insights, and a stress-free journey, hiring a guide is a great option. If you seek adventure, flexibility, and personal cultural engagement, traveling independently may be more rewarding. A balanced approach—hiring a guide for complex sites like Petra or Wadi Rum while exploring less touristy areas on your own—often provides the best of both worlds.
For groups of 7 or more traveling in one vehicle, specific regulations apply. In accordance with Jordanian government and Ministry of Tourism regulations, groups of this size must be accompanied by a licensed Jordanian tourist guide for the duration of the trip.
The licensed guide will accompany your group from arrival to departure, providing historical insights, cultural context, and detailed information about the sites you visit.
The travel agency will prepare the necessary visa manifest for your group, which will be stamped by the authorities upon arrival in Jordan. This is required for smooth entry into the country.
In addition to the licensed guide, all groups of 7 or more travelers must be accompanied by a police officer throughout the tour. This is part of Jordan’s security protocols to ensure the safety of all tourists and comply with local regulations.
For groups of this size, the driver will be responsible solely for transportation. Since a licensed guide will be available throughout the tour, the driver’s language skills are not a major concern. The guide will provide the necessary expertise and support, while the driver focuses on logistical aspects such as transfers, pick-ups, and drop-offs.
Whether you're exploring Jordan as part of a small group or a larger tour, we offer flexible options to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience. Groups of 1-6 people can enjoy a mix of self-guided and partially guided tours, with the option of hiring a full-time licensed guide for an in-depth journey. For larger groups of 7 or more, a licensed guide and police escort are required to ensure a smooth and secure experience from start to finish.
No matter how you choose to explore, Jordan’s stunning landscapes, ancient monuments, and rich heritage will leave a lasting impression. From the vibrant city streets to the vast desert and iconic sites like Petra and Jerash, your adventure in Jordan will be truly unforgettable.
