Jordan FAQs

Thinking of travelling to Jordan?

Jordan is home to some of the Middle East’s most impressive sights, from the ancient city of Petra and the wide-open landscapes of Wadi Rum to the Roman streets of Jerash and the shores of the Dead Sea. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore more, these FAQs answer the questions UK travellers ask most often.

If you’re still deciding where to go, take a look at our Jordan holiday, which include the main highlights as well as options to extend your trip.

Before You Go

Q: Do I need a visa for Jordan?

A: To visit Jordan, you need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. You will need a visa to enter Jordan. The Jordan visa is included in the price of your holiday. On arrival in Amman our representatives will meet you prior to immigration and this will be provided to you free of charge. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Jordanian consulate.

Q: What vaccinations or health advice do I need for Jordan?

A For the most up-to-date guidance, visit NaTHNaC or speak with your GP or a travel health clinic before travelling.

Q: What should I pack for a trip to Jordan?

A: Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for Jordan’s warm, dry climate, but temperatures can vary depending on where you are and when you travel. Amman and the highlands can feel cool in the evenings, especially in spring and autumn, so pack a fleece. Petra and Wadi Rum have similar conditions, with hot days and noticeably cooler nights, while the Dead Sea is warmer year-round. Rain is not common, but possible at any time, so a light waterproof is useful.

Modest dress is important when visiting religious or traditional places, so bring clothing that covers shoulders and knees. A hat, sunscreen and a small scarf are helpful for sun protection at open archaeological sites. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring Petra and other historic areas.

Electricity in Jordan is 230V, with round two-pin plugs. Carry a copy of your passport with you while travelling, and ensure you bring any medication you may need from the UK.

Practical Information

Q: What’s the weather like in Jordan?

A: Jordan has a generally dry climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures vary by region: the desert areas, including Wadi Rum, can be very hot during the day but cool quickly once the sun sets, while Amman and the highlands are noticeably cooler, especially in winter. The Dead Sea is warm throughout the year thanks to its low elevation. Most travellers find the period from September to June the most comfortable for sightseeing.

Q: What should I know about local customs and etiquette?

A: Jordanians are known for their hospitality. Modest dress is appreciated in religious or conservative areas, and removing shoes may be required in certain places. A polite greeting is always welcomed, and respectful behaviour goes a long way.

Q: Is English widely spoken in Jordan?

A: Yes. English is common in hotels, restaurants and tourist areas, and your guide will assist in more rural parts.

Health and Safety

Q: Is Jordan safe to travel to?

A: Yes. Jordan is considered one of the safest destinations in the region and welcomes visitors warmly. As anywhere, keep valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings and follow the advice of your guide.

Q: What happens if I get ill while in Jordan?

A: Medical facilities in major cities are generally good, with English-speaking staff available. In more remote areas, clinics may be limited, and you may need to travel to a larger town for treatment. Make sure your travel insurance covers medical care and emergency transport. If you feel unwell, your guide or hotel can help arrange a doctor.

Connectivity and Communication

Q: What are the mobile data and SIM card options in Jordan?

A: Many hotels and cafés offer Wi-Fi. If your UK provider doesn’t include Jordan in its roaming plan, you can buy a local SIM at the airport or in major towns. eSIM options may also be available. You’ll need your passport for registration.

Getting Around

Q: How do I get around in Jordan?

A: Getting around Jordan is straightforward, and travelling by road is the most common way to move between the country’s main sights. Roads are generally good, although journeys through desert or mountain areas can take longer due to winding routes or occasional roadworks. Most people choose to travel with a private driver or as part of an organised tour, as distances can be long and signposting is sometimes limited. With Llama Travel, all transfers and transport are arranged in advance, using comfortable air-conditioned vehicles and experienced local drivers.

Public transport exists, but it is less convenient for sightseeing. Local buses run between major towns, but they do not always operate to a fixed timetable and can be crowded. Taxis are plentiful in cities such as Amman, although long-distance travel is usually better arranged in advance.

Jordan does not have an extensive train network, and rail travel is not commonly used for tourist routes. Most travellers rely on road transport for journeys between places such as Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. The scenery can be impressive, with stretches of desert and occasional villages along the way.

Domestic flights are limited but can be useful for specific routes, such as between Amman and Aqaba on the Red Sea. These flights are short and help reduce long road journeys, especially if you are short on time.

Food and Drink

Q: What’s the food like in Jordan?

A: Jordanian food is full of flavour. Expect plenty of mezze, hummus, falafel, grilled meats, fresh bread and simple, tasty desserts. Street food is popular and good value. Vegetarian options are widely available, though dishes can sometimes contain stock or small amounts of meat, so check if unsure.

Q: Can I drink tap water in Jordan?

A: Bottled water is recommended throughout the country. Most hotels provide bottled water or filtered alternatives.

What to See

Q: What are the highlights of Jordan?

A: Most visitors follow a route that includes Jordan’s key sights. Petra is the main highlight, with its rock-cut temples and the famous Treasury hidden at the end of the Siq canyon. Wadi Rum offers open desert landscapes, sandstone cliffs and very clear night skies. To the north, Jerash is an impressive Roman city with colonnaded streets and large theatres. The Dead Sea is known for its highly salty water where you float easily, and Amman combines ancient sites like the Citadel with busy markets and modern cafés.

Q: How many days do I need for a Jordan holiday?

A: Around seven to ten days gives enough time to visit the main sites comfortably. Llama Travel’s itineraries usually include Petra, Wadi Rum, Amman, Jerash and the Dead Sea, with options to extend your stay.

Q: Where should I go in Petra?

A: Start with the walk through the Siq, a narrow sandstone gorge that leads to the Treasury, Petra’s most famous sight. From there, you can explore the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs and the main trail towards the site’s centre, where you’ll find temples, markets and the remains of ancient houses. The High Place of Sacrifice offers a good viewpoint if you’re happy with a climb. If you have more time, the walk up to the Monastery is known for being rather rewarding, with fewer people and wide views over the surrounding hills.

Q: Where should I go in Wadi Rum?

A: A jeep tour is the best way to see the desert’s rock formations, sand dunes and natural arches. Spending a night in a desert camp gives you a chance to enjoy the sunset and an exceptionally clear night sky.

Q: Where should I go at the Dead Sea?

A: The main reason to visit is the experience of floating in the salty water, as well as to relax after a busy tour around Jordan. Many hotels also offer spas, mud treatments and sunset views across the water.

Q: Where should I go in Amman and Jerash?

A: In Amman, the Citadel and Roman Theatre offer excellent insight into the city’s past. Jerash, just north of the capital, has the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy, including a vast forum, colonnaded streets and temples.

Still have questions about travelling to Jordan?

Our team is happy to help. Call us on 020 7263 3000 or explore our Jordan holidays to begin planning your trip.