Essential Guide to Drivers and Tour Guides in Jordan

Introduction

Jordan is a remarkable destination, famed for its historical significance, breathtaking landscapes, and the warmth of its people. Whether you're visiting the ancient ruins of Petra, the vast desert of Wadi Rum, or the lively city of Amman, choosing the right transport and guide services is essential for an enjoyable and hassle-free trip. This guide delves into the roles of drivers and tour guides in Jordan, covering options for both small and large group travelers. Whether you're embarking on a private journey or joining a group tour, this guide will assist you in making the most of your time in Jordan.

A. For Small Groups of 1-6 Travelers: Driver and Guide Options

Driver Overview

For small groups of up to 6 people, your journey in Jordan will be accompanied by an experienced driver, fluent in English (or Spanish, French, Italian, and other languages upon availability). The driver will mainly handle the transportation between destinations.

Important Notes:

Although your driver is not a licensed tour guide, they are an excellent resource throughout your trip. They are responsible for facilitating smooth transfers, including pickups and drop-offs, but they will not accompany you inside historical sites. However, they can offer general information about Jordan, suggest places to eat, and provide recommendations for other attractions to visit.

At well-known landmarks like Petra and Jerash, a local guide will be provided to offer detailed insights into the site. In Wadi Rum, a Bedouin guide will accompany your jeep tour to enrich your experience.

Optional Local Guide Services for Small Groups

If you wish, you may hire a local guide for specific locations. Alternatively, you can choose a full-time, government-licensed guide, who will travel with you throughout your entire journey for an additional cost of around $120–$140 per day (depending on language and season), along with an upgraded vehicle. This option allows you to gain deeper knowledge of Jordan’s culture, history, and traditions.

Local Guides at Petra, Jerash, & Amman City Sites

To comply with regulations, visitors to Petra, Jerash, and the Amman Citadel must use local guides when traveling with a tour agency. This is automatically included in your booking.

Guide Details for Small Groups
Languages Offered

• English is available with most guides.
• Other languages: Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Hungarian, Russian, Romanian, Indonesian, Chinese (translators only), Dutch, and Czech (availability may vary). If your preferred language guide is unavailable, an English-speaking guide will be provided. It’s advisable to book non-English-speaking guides in advance.

Tour Types

• Self-Guided: Perfect for those who prefer to explore at their own pace, offering flexibility while still discovering Jordan’s beauty.
• Partially Guided: For major attractions like Petra, Jerash, and Wadi Rum, local guides will provide in-depth knowledge about these historical sites.
• Full-Time Licensed Guide (Optional): For a richer experience, you may opt for a full-time guide at an extra cost of $120–$140 per day (depending on the season and language). This option may require a vehicle upgrade, and pricing can be provided upon request.

Should You Hire a Guide for Small Groups or Private Travelers?

A common question among travelers is whether hiring a guide in Jordan is necessary. Given the country’s incredible history, culture, and scenery, having a guide can enhance your trip. But whether or not to hire one ultimately depends on your travel style and preferences.

Advantages of Hiring a Guide

• Expert Knowledge: A local guide offers historical and cultural insights that enrich your visit.
• Language Assistance: Though English is widely spoken, a guide can help with Arabic nuances, improving communication.
• Efficient Navigation: Jordan’s winding streets and remote sites can be challenging, so a guide helps streamline logistics, making the most of your time.
• Safety and Comfort: Especially in more isolated areas, like the desert, a guide ensures your safety and helps navigate any unexpected situations.

Pros of Independent Travel

• Flexibility: Traveling solo means you control your schedule and can change plans on a whim.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Skipping the guide’s fee can make the trip more budget-friendly, allowing you to allocate funds elsewhere.
• Authentic Experiences: Independent exploration often leads to more personal interactions with locals and unique cultural experiences.

The Verdict
Ultimately, the choice between hiring a guide or traveling independently depends on your preferences. If you prioritize convenience, historical context, and a stress-free experience, hiring a guide can be ideal. However, if you seek adventure and the freedom to explore on your own terms, independent travel might be more appealing. Many travelers find a balance by hiring a guide for significant sites like Petra or Wadi Rum, while venturing solo in other areas.

B. For Larger Groups of 7 or More: Driver and Guide Services

Driver and Guide for Groups of 7 or More

When traveling in a group of 7 or more people in a single vehicle, additional regulations apply. In accordance with the Jordanian government and Ministry of Tourism guidelines, your group will be required to have a licensed tour guide for the duration of the trip.

Guide Responsibilities

The licensed guide will accompany your group from start to finish, providing insightful commentary about the sites, culture, and history of Jordan.

Visa Manifest

Your travel agency will prepare a visa manifest for the group, which will be stamped by authorities upon arrival, ensuring smooth entry into Jordan.

Police Escort

To ensure safety and comply with security protocols, groups of 7 or more will also be accompanied by a police officer throughout the tour.

Driver Responsibilities for Larger Groups

For groups of this size, the driver’s role is limited to transportation. Since the licensed guide will handle all the details, language proficiency is not a major concern for the driver. The driver will focus on logistical duties such as transfers and pick-ups.

Conclusion

Whether you're traveling with a small group or a large party, we provide flexible options to ensure a seamless and unforgettable Jordanian experience. Small groups can enjoy a mix of self-guided and guided tours, with the option of hiring a full-time guide for an even deeper exploration. Larger groups will benefit from a licensed guide and police escort to ensure security and smooth logistics from start to finish. No matter your travel style, Jordan’s rich culture, spectacular landscapes, and historical treasures will leave a lasting impression.

Contact Us for More Details

For more information or to plan your unforgettable Jordan adventure, feel free to contact us. Our team is here to help you tailor your experience to suit your needs and preferences.

Email: info@johtt.com
WhatsApp: +962799610139
Or you can send us your request by filling out our form.