A- If you are traveling to Jordan, you might have this question: when is it necessary to have a guide(s)?
To answer this question, you should have an idea about the rules and regulations in Jordan.
The guide(s) are needed based on how many travelers are in your group. The following information will provide you with more of an idea.
1- If your group consists of 07 travelers and more.
As per the rules and regulations of the Jordanian Government, for groups of 07 or more travelers and travelling altogether in one vehicle you are required to have a licensed Jordanian Tourist Guide for the duration of your trip. The guide will be there to assist you on arrival to Jordan and stay with your group until your departure from Jordan. This guide can be arranged through a travel agency. The travel agency will have the necessary documentation (called a visa manifest) for your group which is stamped by the authorities when you arrive to Jordan.
Please note also that all groups in jordan are accompanied and escorted by police man who during all the tour as per the rules and regulations. Any group of 07 and more and traveling without guide and police man that violates the rules and regulations .
2- If your group are 06 people and less (1 person, 02 people, 03 people .... up to 06 people).
In this case the full guided tour is optional : i.e. you might have a driver + guide. The guide in this case will make the tour expensive as the guides daily rate is approximately (depending on the season or the language) is $140 - $180 USD per day per the group. In this case it is recommended to be accompanied by a driver and you will have spot guide(s) at the historical sites. We usually include the service of the guides in our packages wherever is needed. For example:
A- In Petra, the guide is optional but strongly recommended if Petra visit will be the 1st one in your life. You can check the trails of Petra in optional excurions.
B- In Wadi Rum, there will be a local Bedouin driver for the 4x4 tour or the other tours who will be helpful and speaks some English.
C- In Jerash, the tour guide is available and it is recommended.
D- Ajloun, Umm Qais, Madaba and Mount Nebo and other sites. The guides are available but those sites can be self-guided and usually we don’t include the guides for those sites.
E- The Bethany / The Baptism site, the guide is included in the ticket.
In case if you want to have a guide from the moment of arrival until departure, please contact us.
B- For FITs (Flexible Independent Travel) / Private and Indivdual Groups of 06 people and less . Do I need a guide?
When planning a trip to the captivating country of Jordan, one of the most pressing questions that often comes to mind is, "Do I need to hire a guide?" Jordan is a land steeped in history, culture, and natural wonders, offering a diverse range of experiences. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, the decision to hire a guide or go solo can greatly impact your journey. In this blog, we'll explore the pros and cons of both options, helping you make an informed choice for your Jordanian adventure.
The Benefits of Hiring a Guide:
1.Local Expertise: Jordan boasts a rich history and a wealth of cultural intricacies. A knowledgeable guide can provide context, historical insights, and a deep understanding of the places you visit, enhancing your overall experience
2.Language Assistance: While English is widely spoken in Jordan, a guide can assist with Arabic language nuances, making interactions with locals even more meaningful.
3.Logistics and Navigation: Navigating Jordan's winding streets, bustling markets, and remote destinations can be challenging. A guide takes the stress out of logistics, ensuring you make the most of your time.
4.Safety and Comfort: A guide can help ensure your safety, particularly in more remote areas like the desert. They can also handle unexpected situations, giving you peace of mind.
The Advantages of Going Solo:
1.Flexibility: Traveling independently offers the freedom to create your itinerary, change plans on the fly, and linger longer at places that pique your interest.
2.Cost Savings: Hiring a guide can be an added expense. Going solo allows you to tailor your trip to your budget, choosing where to splurge and where to save.
3.Personal Connection: Exploring on your own can lead to more authentic interactions with locals, allowing you to forge connections and experiences that might be limited in a guided tour.
The Decision:
Ultimately, the choice of whether to hire a guide in Jordan depends on your travel style, preferences, and priorities. If you value convenience, in-depth knowledge, and worry-free logistics, a guide may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek adventure, flexibility, and a more personal connection with the culture, going solo can be immensely rewarding. In many cases, a balanced approach can be ideal. Consider hiring a guide for complex sites like Petra or Wadi Rum and exploring smaller towns and less touristy areas independently. This way, you can savor the best of both worlds.
In conclusion, whether you choose to hire a guide or travel solo in Jordan, the country's undeniable beauty, rich heritage, and warm hospitality are sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart. Your journey through this mesmerizing land will be an adventure, no matter how you decide to explore it.