Pre-trip Checklist: Things to Know Before You Travel To Jordan

Pre-trip Checklist: Things to Know Before You Travel To Jordan

There are many variables to consider when packing your bags for Jordan: the variety of terrain and weather conditions, outdoor adventure activities, Arabic culture, and transitioning from vibrant city life to laid-back beaches and desert escapes. Let this packing list be your guide—it covers the essential items you'll want in your suitcase when embarking on your Jordan journey.

Here is the checklist:

Jordan Currency

The official currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar, often abbreviated as "JD." It's divided into one hundred piasters or one thousand fils. The dinar has a fixed exchange rate with the US dollar, currently at JD 71 for every 100 US dollars. Although the US dollar is widely accepted, it's advisable to have Jordanian dinars on hand for your local transactions. This ensures smoother exchanges and a seamless experience throughout your journey in Jordan. Check OANDA for the latest exchange rates.

Credit Cards

During your travels in Jordan, you'll find that Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, with American Express also being accepted, though to a somewhat lesser extent, primarily in most shops. However, Please note that many smaller shops still prefer cash payment in the Jordanian currency, and it’s essential for shopping in the local souks.

Exchange facilities in Jordan

Exchange facilities are available at various bureau de changes, and banks in major towns have ATMs. It's advisable to request bank notes in smaller denominations, as it can sometimes be hard to get change from large notes and smaller notes are handy for smaller purchases and gratuities. Please note that exchange facilities in Jordan are available upon your arrival to Jordan's airports or borders. Your driver / guide can recommend you for exchange facilities in Jordan, dont hesitate to ask him when you arrive if you want to get much better exchange rates than in the airports/borders .

Which Currencies are widely Accepted and can be exchanged in Jordan?

Beside the Jordan Dinar (JOD) ; US Dollars (US $ ) , Euro (€), Pound Sterling (GBP : £) and other major currencies can be exchanged in Jordan. Exchange rates will be based on the day of currency change .

Passport

To travel within Jordan, you must possess a valid passport with an expiration date that extends at least 6 months beyond the conclusion of your planned holiday. If your passport is not valid at least 6 months, you should be responsible for that .

Visa To Jordan

For most visitors, obtaining a Tourist Visa is a straightforward process. You can acquire it upon arrival at any airport, port, or border checkpoint. However, it's crucial to note that specific nationalities may have different visa requirements. To ensure you have the correct information, please check the official webpage at www.visitjordan.com or contact your local Jordanian Embassy before your trip. These resources will provide you with the latest rules and restrictions related to your nationality.
As of now, the cost of a single-entry visa for all nationalities is JD 40. However, if you book your travel through us, you mostly be eligible for a complimentary visa. To take advantage of this offer, it's important to provide all your passport details to us before your arrival in the country.
Upon your arrival at the airport, a representative from Jordan Horizons Tours (JHT) will be there to greet you. They will hold a sign bearing your name and assist you with all the necessary immigration procedures, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to your journey in Jordan.

Electrical Info

Electricity in Jordan is 220 volts and the outlets accept the European two-pin plug. Many of the hotels throughout Jordan will provide different power sockets in their rooms although it is always wise to carry at least one world-wide adapter with you. In Jordan the power plugs and sockets are of type C, D, F, G and J. You will find various combinations of power plugs/outlets in each room. Check out the following pictures:

-Type C: also known as the standard "Euro" plug. This socket also works with plug E and plug F.

-Type D: mainly used in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and some African countries. This socket only works with plug D.

-Type F: also known as "Schuko". This socket also works with plug C and plug E.

-Type G: this type is of British origin. This socket only works with plug G.

-Type J: mainly used in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. This socket also works with plug C. But plug N will NOT work.

If you're coming from the US, remember to bring a transformer for your electronics since the voltage differs. Fortunately, most hotels in Jordan provide transformers for your convenience .

Language/Languages in Jordan

Arabic serves as Jordan's official language. Arabic serves as Jordan's official language. However, English holds significant importance, especially in urban areas. Jordanians, often well-traveled and educated abroad, have strong English proficiency. Additionally, to a lesser extent, languages like French, German, Italian, and Spanish are also spoken.

Alcohol Policy

Alcohol is generally allowed in Jordan, and you'll find that most hotels and restaurants offer a wide selection of alcoholic beverages. The country is known for its excellent local wines and locally produced beers, providing visitors with various options to enjoy during their stay. Though Jordan is a Muslim country, alcohol is readily available at hotels, restaurants, bars and liquor stores. Drinking in vehicles and public areas is prohibited. During Ramadan, alcohol is only served at hotels, touristic restaurants & bars..

Photography Guidelines

When taking photographs during your travels in Jordan, it's important to be respectful of local customs and regulations. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
-Ask for Permission: Always seek permission from locals before taking their photographs. Your guide can assist you in this process and help establish a friendly rapport with the people you encounter.
-Avoid Sensitive Locations: Do not take photographs of military installations or airports. These are restricted areas, and capturing images of such locations may lead to misunderstandings or legal issues.
-Protect Your Camera: Jordan's desert environment can be dusty, so it's advisable to carry your camera in a dust-proof bag or protective cover to prevent damage from sand and dust particles.
-By following these photography guidelines, you can ensure that your photography experience in Jordan is respectful and enjoyable while maintaining a harmonious relationship with the local community

Cloth We Recommend

When traveling to Jordan, it's essential to pack clothing suitable for the region's climate and cultural norms:
-Summer (May to September),Winter and Cool Evenings, Rainwear (November to April)
-Summer (May to September): Lightweight cotton and linen clothing is highly recommended due to the warm weather. These fabrics help keep you cool and comfortable. However, it's essential to be respectful of the local culture. Revealing clothing is not appropriate, especially outside tourist areas.
-Winter and Cool Evenings: In the winter months and during cool summer evenings, it's advisable to have warm clothing on hand. This includes sweaters or shawls to stay comfortable in lower temperatures.
-Rainwear (November to April): Jordan experiences some rainfall from November to April, so it's a good idea to carry rainwear or an umbrella during this period.
-Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore various attractions. Ensure your footwear is suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
-Sun Protection: Given the sunny climate, don't forget to pack a hat and sunblock to protect yourself from the sun's rays.
-Cultural Sensitivity: Jordan is primarily a Muslim country, though not extremely conservative. It's advisable for both men and women to wear conservative clothing, especially in downtown Amman and rural areas, to show respect for local customs and traditions.
-By adhering to these clothing recommendations, you'll have a comfortable and culturally respectful experience while exploring Jordan.

Travel Insurance

We recommend that you purchase your own travel insurance when you book your airline tickets. Travel insurance provides an added layer of protection and peace of mind during your trip. However, Travel Insurance it is not mandatory but recommended .

JORDAN SAFETY

One of the safest destinations for travelers worldwide. Jordan has fostered positive relations with all of its neighboring countries, establishing itself as a true sanctuary of peace in this region. Upon your arrival in Jordan, you'll immediately experience the warmth and hospitality of its people. You'll be pleasantly reassured by the strong sense of security that permeates Jordan, making it one of the safest destinations for travelers worldwide. Jordan has fostered positive relations with all of its neighboring countries, establishing itself as a true sanctuary of peace in this region. The country maintains a relatively liberal and westernized atmosphere, and you'll find that alcohol is readily available. These factors contribute to the overall sense of comfort and ease that travelers enjoy while exploring this remarkable nation.

INTERNET IN JORDAN

Internet is widely used throughout the country which can be seen through the hundreds of internet café’s dotted around all major towns and cities. All hotels have internet access in business centers, rooms, lobby area. Many have access in rooms either by cable or Wi-Fi. Data SIM cards can be easily bought from everywhere with cheap prices fares. We would recommend you to buy a Data SIM card once you arrive , you can ask our guides/drivers or representatives at borders/airports, they would assist you in purchasing it . It is recommended to be bought in order to be in touch with our operation team or your sales rep. for any assistance or question any time .

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS

Jordan celebrates a rich tapestry of holidays and festivals, offering visitors a glimpse into its vibrant culture and traditions. Here's what you need to know
While most tourist sites and many businesses remain open during holidays, government offices and banks typically close.
-Holiday Observance: While most tourist sites and many businesses remain open during holidays, government offices and banks typically close. The official weekend in Jordan is on Friday and Saturday, although you'll find that many tourist sites and businesses also operate on Saturdays.
-Islamic Calendar: Many Jordanian holidays are based on the Islamic religious calendar, which means they shift by approximately two weeks each year according to the lunar calendar.
-Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. To show respect, it's advisable not to consume drinks, food, or cigarettes in public areas outside of restaurants and tourist sites during daylight hours.
-Jerash Festival: An internationally renowned event, the Jerash Festival takes place in the ancient city of Jerash between July and August. It offers a captivating showcase of singers, musical and folklore troupes, plays, and symphony operas from both the Arab World and Europe. This festival is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural diversity of Jordan.
-As you plan your visit to Jordan, consider the holiday calendar, as it can influence the availability of services and the atmosphere at various attractions. Embracing local customs and participating in festivals can enhance your travel experience and connect you with the rich heritage of this remarkable country.

The Holy Month of Ramadan : Ramadan KAREEM

Almost all Tour sites in Jordan are open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm during Ramadan. Petra is open from 6:00am-6:00pm during Ramadan, as well as all sites in Jordan . During Ramadan , life is normal but consider that drivers and guides during Ramadan are fasting . During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. To show respect, it's advisable not to consume drinks, food, or cigarettes in public areas outside of restaurants and tourist sites during daylight hours.

Jordan Weather & Climate

Please see below our Month-by-month best time to travel to Jordan:

November - December - January - February :
These three months are the coldest months of the year, when heavy rainfall is common in most part of the country. Winter has the least amount of sunshine hours of the year, with daily sunshine of 7.5 hours on average, but still visit can be enjoyed! Despite this is the rainy season, Jordan enjoys generally dry weather during winters. On the contrary, weather at the Dead Sea or Aqaba is still pleasant and warm. You better want to bring some warm layers if you consider travelling during winter time.

March :
March considered as the end of rainfall season, and the country is about to get rid of the chilly weather of winter. In March Jordan experiences essentially constant cloud cover, with the percentage of time that the sky is overcast or mostly cloudy remaining about 22% throughout the month. Spring starts in March, when wildflowers emerge, where valleys are green and temperatures can be beamy.
However, those who are looking to have an overnight in the desert, nights in the desert can be still cold. Jordan is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. Or three hours while we are on Daylight Savings Time (we change the clocks the last Thursday night in March, and change back the last Thursday night in October).

April - May :
April is absolutely the best time of the year as the temperature is warm “Neither hot nor cold”, and weather starts warming up considerably. The northern part Jordan is mostly lush, and spring is the high season for Jordanian flora, where many regions are carpeted with a dazzling array of flowering plants.
The Sirocco (Also spelled Scirocco) starts at the end of March to the begging of May. It’s Called Also Khamaseen “from the Arabic world “Fifty” which lasts over a fifty- day period. It is a dry, hot, sandy wind passes over the area and lasting for several hours. It carries great quantities of sand and dust from the deserts blowing from the south in North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

June - July - August :
This is the summer time here in Jordan. It’s very hot and dry during summer time, but still pleasant due to the low humidity in the heights especially at night. The amount of sunshine during the month of June to August is at a maximum of 14 hours a day. Precipitation throughout the summer is non-existent; however, heat and humidity remain moderate and will continue until the month of September, when it drops to zero.
You might think this is best time of the year to travel to Jordan if you can stand the heat since it is the low season, and hotels/ Airlines do decrease their rates sharply.

September - October :
It is still warm during September, but it is the starting time of the fall, when the country emerges to be ready to get arid. At the end of September temperatures starts to cool off gradually.In October the average temperatures would be between 15ºC- 28C. Therefore, this makes October one of best months of the year to visit Jordan bedsides March & April.
Jordan is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. Or three hours while we are on Daylight Savings Time (we change the clocks the last Thursday night in March, and change back the last Thursday night in October).  

*In our knowledgevw base you can check "Seasons in Jordan"

Driver Vs. Guide

You will be accompanied on your tour by an English Speaking Driver (if your final itinerary includes transfers). Whilst not an official licensed Ministry of Tourism guide, your driver will assist you during your tour but is unable to enter the sites with you. Kindly note that your driver is not a guide and he cannot act as a guide, your driver will transfer you from destination to another only by dropping you off and picking you up. There are local guides available to hire on sites and it is optional to hire, mainly we include the guide in Petra and Jerash , in Wadi Rum during the jeep tour you will have a local Bedouin guide . Your driver transfers you according to your itinerary (destination to destination), he will assist you with where to have dinners/lunches, he will be able to advise you the time of pick up and drop off …etc , he might be able to explain about the areas and sites you visit , about Jordan, some facts and some traditions . He will be able to arrange the optional tours He is not at your disposal 24/7. If you prefer a professional guide throughout your journey, we can make those arrangements for an additional cost. Please this artice for guides options .

Time Zone

Jordan is ahead of GMT by two hours . When you're in Jordan, don't forget to set your watch to the local time. The country is ahead of GMT by two hours. This simple adjustment ensures that you stay synchronized with the local time as you explore Jordan.

Tipping in Jordan

Tipping is a common practice in the culture, While traveling in Jordan, you'll quickly notice that tipping is a common practice deeply ingrained in the culture. It's important to understand that tipping is not mandatory but rather a gesture to acknowledge the quality of service received. Even though those in the tourism industry receive decent fixed salaries, tips serve as additional income. In some cases, a 10% service charge might be included in hotel and restaurant bills. Remember, tipping is a tangible way to express gratitude for exceptional service.

Is tap water safe in Jordan?

Tap water is clean for showering, washing your hands, brushing teeth and using it for other hygienic purposes, but not recommended for drinking, rather drink bottled water instead.

What is the difference between a Double and a Twin room?

A double room has one double bed (one King Size Bed). A twin room has two separate beds.

Do’s & Don’ts in Jordan

Do’s:
Do shake hands when meeting people conservative veiled women may not reach out.
When finished with your cup of Arabic coffee, shake your cup from side to side in order to let your host know that you do not wish to drink more. If more coffee is desired, then simply hold your cup out to the person carrying the coffeepot.
Do accept when Arabic coffee is offered to you by your host, as coffee is an important cultural symbol of hospitality, simultaneously extended and accepted as an act of reciprocated goodwill.
Do tip waiters approximately 10% gratuity in addition to the bill (unless a service charge is included in the total bill).
Do haggle with merchants when shopping.
Do dress conservatively when exploring public areas of Jordan.
Do be aware that Arabs tend to stand a fraction of the distance closer when conversing than people do in the West.
Do stand up when greeting others.
Do round your taxi fare up to the nearest tenth when paying your driver.
Do feel free to consume alcoholic beverages, but not in outside public areas.
Do use your hands: Table manners are carefree in Jordan. Eating food with your hands is a common custom, and also indicates that you are enjoying the food on offer. Mansaf, Jordan’s famous traditional dish, for example, is usually eaten with your hands.
Do ask for photography permissions: Jordan is undoubtedly one of the most photogenic regions in the world. The locals are often happy to pose for your photographs as well. But before attempting to take any pictures of them, always ask for permission first, especially when women are present.
Do always pack a scarf: Aside from dress codes, a scarf can come in handy for totally different reasons. On a hot day, it might be a good idea to cover your head to avoid getting heat stroke – this is especially the case when visiting a desert tourist site like Wadi Rum or Petra. Female visitors might need a scarf when visiting a religious site, like the spectacular King Hussein Bin Talal Mosque.

Don’ts:

Don’t interrupt, or pass in front of, a Muslim who may be praying in a public place.
Don’t openly consume food, beverages, or cigarettes in public places during the holy month of Ramadan.
Don’t dress provocatively when walking outdoors.
Don’t panic if an acquaintance “pecks” you on the cheeks when greeting you, as Arabs have traditionally kissed each other on both cheeks as a warm gesture of welcome and affection.
Don’t feel uncomfortable if your host insists on “overfeeding” you during a meal, as Arabs traditionally view food as an important symbol of hospitality, generosity, and goodwill – the more the better!
Don’t feel that you are required to tip your taxi driver, as tipping in such a scenario is not necessary, but is certainly appreciated.
Don't say no to food: Jordanians are very generous and hospitable people. They take their guests’ comfort very seriously, and go to great lengths to make them feel at home. It is also a known fact that they enjoy sharing their meals with everyone. Always smile and accept the food offering, as repeatedly telling them you’re full will likely offend them.
Israel is a sensitive subject: Jordan is home to both Jordanians and Palestinians, and the subject of Israel is a very sensitive matter. As a traveler, you might have differing opinions regarding this topic, but it is advised never to open up or participate in discussions relating to it.
Avoid the rush hour: Traffic jams reach their peak between 7 am-9 am & 2 pm–5 pm.
Always plan your movements through the city in advance, or choose to walk to closer destinations on foot during those times.
Don’t drink water from just anywhere: Tap water is drinkable in Jordan but Jordanians are used not to do. Unlike in Western countries, tap water in Jordan is only used to wash things. Nonetheless, you can get drinkable water delivered to your doorstep at any time of day, or you can bottles in corner shops or big stores.
Vegetarians, be alert: Vegetarianism is widely accepted and catered to in Jordanian culture. however, those who don’t eat meat will still be left with very limited choices when it comes to traditional cuisine.
Animal products: Almost all Jordanian dishes contain animal products in one way or another., so be prepared – say, if invited to lunch – to stare down at a table full of meat dishes, and be aware that it is very disrespectful to show disgust for food in Jordan.

Jordan is a destination that offers a blend of ancient history, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality. By understanding these key aspects before you go, you can ensure a more enjoyable and culturally respectful experience. At Jordan Horizons Tours, we are committed to making your visit unforgettable. For any further information or to plan your trip, feel free to contact us.

Safe travels and welcome to Jordan!

Author: Shamaseen JHT On: 2024-05-15.

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