Where to Start When Planning a Trip to Jordan
Transportation:
Renting a Car:
I can only speak to renting a car in Jordan. There is a shuttle bus that runs from Ammam to Petra. But it did not make sense for two people to pay for this bus when renting a car would only cost a little more and we get the independence to decide when we get to be at places.
Driving in Jordan is fairly easy if you are driving to the main touristy destinations. I write about it more here.
Guided Tour:
We did hear from other travelers who went to Petra and Wadi Rum with a guided tour and had a great experience with it. If you are looking for the most hassle free option this will be your best option.
Things to Consider:
Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Best Time to Visit: March-May, September-November
Language: Arabic
Drinkable Tap Water: No
Haggling: Yes
Tip: No
Flush Toilet Paper: No
Cash or Credit Card: Bring Cash
Cultural Tips:
As for most Arab countries they are conservative in their attire. To be respectful of their culture men should wear shirts covering their shoulders and pants or shorts that reach the upper knee. Women should wear loose fitting clothes that cover your back, shoulders, chest, and knees. You are not required to wear head coverings, but if visiting more rural areas consider bringing a scarf to cover your hair, if needed.
What We Wish We Knew:
- A one day pass to Petra cost $70, I assumed Petra would cost an average ticket price when visiting ancient ruins, like $20-$30. Not the case here.
- A visa is required to enter Jordan. We did not realize that till we got to the airport. Thankfully it takes 10-15 minutes to fill out online and you get it once you fill out the form. The visa will cost at least $50.
- Buy the Jordanian Pass, especially if you are visiting more places than Petra. The Jordanian pass will pay for your visa fee and fee into Petra, plus 40 other attractions.
- Jordanian food is underrated. Eat as much falafel, chicken shawarma, hummus, mutable, and kanafeh as you possibly can. You can get a whole falafel meal for $2-$3.
- Give yourself a full day in Petra and make sure to explore more than just the treasury.
Our Itinerary : Jordan
We only had a couple of days in between our time in Italy to our time in Israel, we decided to make a quick trip to Jordan. After visiting Jordan I would add at least a couple more days to this Itinerary to explore more of Amman and Wadi Rum. Jordan is a small country, but has a lot to offer. Plus, once you pay the visa, Jordan is a fairly cheap country to explore. Making sense to spend a little more time there.
Day 1
Flew to Amman and Picked up rental car at airport
Spent the night in Amman.
Day 2:
Drove to Petra, early in the morning
Spent the day in Petra
Drove to Aqaba that evening
Day 3:
Spent the day in Aqaba, traveling to beaches and exploring the city
Day 4:
Snorkeled at the Japanese Garden site
Enjoyed a day at the beach
Day 5:
Snorkeled at the Japanese Garden site
Enjoyed a day at the beach
Day 6:
Dropped off rental car and crossed the border to Israel
