The Essentials: Jordan Edition
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Jordan, a land of mesmerising beauty and contrasts, from the ancient city of Petra, a wonder carved into the red-tinged cliffs, to the serene expanses of the Wadi Rum desert. This Middle Eastern jewel offers a tapestry of ancient ruins, majestic landscapes, and vibrant cultures. Float effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea or explore the Roman ruins at Jerash. Amman, the capital, merges the old with the new, boasting bustling markets, modern arts, and cuisine that spans the spectrum of Middle Eastern delights. Jordan is not just a crossroad of antiquity and modernity but also a beacon of hospitality and peace in the heart of the Arab world, inviting travellers to explore its wonders and warm-hearted locals.
KEY FACTS
Location: Situated in the Middle East, bordered by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, Israel, and Palestine.
Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET), UTC +2; UTC +3 during daylight saving.
Best Time to Visit: March to May, and September to November when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Language: Arabic is the official language; English is widely spoken especially in tourist areas.
Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD).
Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Standard plug types C, D, F, G, and J.
Emergency Services Phone Number: 911 for police, medical, and fire emergencies.
Safety: Jordan is generally safe for travellers; however, visitors are advised to stay informed about regional travel advisories and exercise normal precautions.
TRANSPORT OPTIONS & VISA REQUIREMENTS
Air Travel: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM): Located near Amman, it's the primary gateway to Jordan with connections to major international destinations. Aqaba's King Hussein International Airport serves as a secondary hub, especially useful for visitors to the Red Sea.
Local Transport: Public transport in Jordan includes a network of buses and service taxis. Buses are economical but may not adhere strictly to schedules. Service taxis, which operate on fixed routes like buses, are more flexible. In cities like Amman, regular taxis and yellow cabs are readily available and can be hailed on the street.
Ride Share Apps: Uber and Careem are operational in Jordan, offering a convenient and safe way for tourists to navigate major cities like Amman and Aqaba.
Transport Rental: Renting a car is recommended for convenience and flexibility when exploring tourist sites. Major rental companies are available at airports and in the city. For the adventurous, renting bikes in Aqaba or along the Jordan Trail offers a unique perspective of the landscapes.
Walking or Cycling Routes: The Jordan Trail, spanning from Umm Qais in the north to Aqaba in the south, offers spectacular hiking and cycling experiences.
Unique Exploration: Consider a hot air balloon ride over Wadi Rum to witness the breathtaking landscapes from above, or a 4x4 safari for a thrilling desert adventure.
Visa Requirements: Australian tourists can obtain a visa on arrival in Jordan or an e-visa prior to travel. Visas on arrival are typically single entry and valid for one month. For the most current visa information and to apply for an e-visa, visit the official Jordanian e-visa portal: Jordan Visa Website.
Tourist Destination Pass:
Jordan offers a particularly useful tourist pass known as the Jordan Pass. This pass is designed to simplify and enhance the travel experience for visitors to the country. Here are the key features:
Entry Visa: The Jordan Pass waives the visa fee for visitors entering Jordan if they stay for at least three consecutive nights.
Site Access: The pass grants prepaid entry to over 40 attractions across Jordan, including major historical and cultural sites such as Petra, Jerash, and Wadi Rum.
Cost Efficiency: It comes in three variations, each offering a different number of days for visiting Petra, ranging from one to three days. The cost starts from 70 JD (approximately 99 USD) and can save visitors money, especially if they plan to visit multiple sites.
Convenience: The pass can be purchased online prior to the visit, making it an easy option for tourists to manage costs and entry requirements seamlessly.
The Jordan Pass is highly recommended for tourists planning to explore the extensive historical and archaeological sites of Jordan, as it not only covers entry fees but also helps with visa procedures, making it a smart choice for international travelers.
ACCOMMODATION
Neighbourhoods:
Amman (Abdoun and Shmeisani): These areas are known for their safety and luxury, with easy access to upscale shops, restaurants, and embassies.
Petra (Wadi Musa): The gateway to the ancient city, it's safe and conveniently located for tourists looking to explore Petra.
Luxury Lodgings:
Four Seasons Hotel Amman: Situated in the prestigious Abdoun district, offering panoramic city views, exquisite dining options, and sumptuous interiors.
Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea: Renowned for its luxurious rooms and suites that overlook the Dead Sea, complete with world-class spa treatments and floating pools.
InterContinental Jordan: Located in the heart of Amman, this hotel combines contemporary luxury with exceptional service.
Movenpick Resort Petra: Just steps away from the entrance to the historic city of Petra, this resort offers comfort and convenience in a breathtaking setting.
Boutique Hotels:
The House Boutique Suites: An elegant hotel in Amman that offers spacious suites and a personalised experience.
Petra Guest House Hotel: Embedded within the rocky landscape of Petra, this hotel offers an intimate experience with easy access to the ancient city.
Wild Jordan Center: Located in Amman, this eco-friendly lodge offers stunning views of the old city and a connection to the nature reserves of Jordan.
Feynan Ecolodge: Set in the heart of the Dana Biosphere Reserve, offering a unique eco-friendly experience with candlelit rooms and natural surroundings.
Unique Stays:
Wadi Rum UFO Luxotel - Campsite - Experience unparalleled desert luxury offering futuristic dome accommodations with stunning panoramic views of the Martian-like landscape.
Sun City Camp Wadi Rum: Experience Martian-like landscapes in luxury tents or futuristic domes, perfect for stargazing and desert escapades.
Bedouin Lifestyle Camp: Nestled in the red sands of Wadi Rum, this camp offers an authentic Bedouin experience with traditional meals and music.
Bait Ali Lodge, Wadi Rum: Rustic but comfortable, this lodge provides a genuine desert experience with modern amenities.
CULTURAL LANDMARKS
Iconic Statues & Monuments
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): This iconic facade carved into the sandstone cliffs of Petra is Jordan’s most recognisable monument. Believed to be a mausoleum of a Nabatean king, it showcases Hellenistic architectural influences and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Monastery (Ad-Deir): Another monumental tomb in Petra, the Monastery is larger than the Treasury and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It’s a must-visit for its impressive facade and serene setting.
Historic Sites
Petra: Known as the "Rose City" due to its pink sandstone cliffs, Petra was the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom. Its extensive ruins include temples, tombs, and a theatre, reflecting a mix of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences.
Jerash: This ancient city boasts some of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside Italy. Key sites include the Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Artemis, and the Oval Plaza, showcasing Roman urban planning and architecture.
Amman Citadel: Located in the heart of Jordan’s capital, this historic site offers ruins from the Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad periods. Highlights include the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace.
Ajloun Castle: Built in the 12th century to defend against Crusader incursions, this Islamic fortress offers insights into medieval Arab military architecture and panoramic views of the Jordan Valley.
Architectural Icons
King Abdullah I Mosque: This modern mosque in Amman is known for its striking blue dome and accommodates up to 10,000 worshippers. It’s a prime example of contemporary Islamic architecture.
Qasr al-Kharrana: One of the desert castles, this Umayyad era building is notable for its architectural blend of Roman and Persian styles, serving as a testament to early Islamic architectural ingenuity.
Cultural Experiences
Dead Sea Spa: Experience floating in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, renowned for its therapeutic properties. Numerous resorts offer spa treatments utilising the unique mud and salt.
Wadi Rum: Explore this stunning desert landscape through jeep tours, camel rides, or hot air balloon trips. Known as the "Valley of the Moon," it’s famous for its red sand dunes and towering rock formations.
Museums & Galleries
The Jordan Museum: Located in Amman, this museum houses artifacts from Jordan’s rich history, including the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Ain Ghazal statues, one of the oldest human statues ever found.
Royal Automobile Museum: Also in Amman, this museum showcases King Hussein’s personal collection of vintage cars and motorcycles, offering a unique glimpse into Jordan’s modern history.
Dar Al-Anda Art Gallery: An often-overlooked gem, this gallery features contemporary art from Jordanian and regional artists, providing insight into the local and modern art scene.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Petra at Sunrise: Capture the Treasury from the top of the Al-Khubtha Trail as the first rays of sun illuminate the façade, offering a magical view without the crowds.
Wadi Rum at Sunset: Photograph the changing colours of this vast desert from a high dune near the Um Sabatah area for panoramic views of the Martian-like terrain.
Dead Sea at Dawn: The lowest point on earth offers serene early morning reflections. Capture from the northern beaches where salt formations add texture to the landscape.
Amman from Jebel Al-Weibdeh: For cityscape shots, this artsy neighborhood offers viewpoints over downtown Amman, capturing the white stone city against a sunset.
Dana Biosphere Reserve: Trek to Rummana Campsite, a lesser-known spot for breathtaking views of the valley, especially vibrant during spring.
Mujib Reserve: Photograph the dramatic water trails from inside Jordan’s grand canyon-like water reserve, particularly thrilling during the light of early morning.
SIGHTSEEING & GREENSPACES
Beach and Nature:
The Dead Sea: Famous for being the lowest point on Earth, this salt lake allows an effortless floating experience due to its high salinity. The mineral-rich mud is also sought after for skin treatments.
Aqaba on the Red Sea: Renowned for its beautiful coral reefs and marine life, Aqaba is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving, offering a vibrant underwater experience.
Parks and Outdoor Activities:
Wadi Rum: Known as the Valley of the Moon, explore this stunning desert landscape by jeep, camel, or hot air balloon. Its dramatic sandstone mountains make it a popular location for hiking and rock climbing.
Dana Biosphere Reserve: Jordan's largest nature reserve offers trails that traverse various bio-geographical zones; from rugged mountain highlands to sandy deserts.
Amman National Park: Located in the capital, this park is a green refuge with walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds, providing a family-friendly outdoor escape.
Adventure Activities:
Canyoning in Wadi Mujib: Referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Jordan," it offers a thrilling adventure of hiking and swimming through majestic sandstone gorges.
Paragliding in Wadi Rum: Experience the breathtaking scenery from the sky, providing a unique perspective of the vast desert landscapes.
Cycling the Jordan Trail: Spanning the length of the country, this trail offers cyclists a challenging yet rewarding way to see the diverse landscapes of Jordan from north to south.
ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCES
Local Traditions:
Bedouin Tea Ceremony: Experience authentic Bedouin hospitality with a tea ceremony under the stars in Wadi Rum. Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp offers this traditional welcome.
Jordanian Cooking Classes: Learn to cook traditional dishes like mansaf and maqluba. Beit Sitti, located in Amman, provides hands-on cooking classes in a home-like setting.
Pottery Making: Try your hand at pottery in the ancient style at Jordan River Foundation in Amman, where you can create traditional pieces.
Music, Theatre and Performing Arts:
Roman Theater in Amman: Catch live performances in this ancient amphitheater that still hosts events ranging from concerts to cultural festivals.
Royal Cultural Center: Located in Amman, this venue showcases a variety of performances, including plays, dance, and concerts, emphasising Jordan's vibrant arts scene.
Local Tours:
Petra Night Tours: Explore Petra by night, guided by candlelight, offering a magical perspective of the ancient city. Petra Night Walks are highly recommended.
Historical and Cultural Heritage Tours: Jordan Private Tours and Travel offers comprehensive tours focusing on Jordan’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Amman City Tours with Zaman Tours: Offers comprehensive city tours of Amman, highlighting its historical sites, museums, and culinary hotspots.
Notable Local Guides:
Mohammad Al Homidan: A guide known for his extensive knowledge of Petra and Wadi Rum, offering insightful and personalised tours.
Ahmad Alomari: An experienced local guide recommended for his deep knowledge of Jordanian history and culture, especially in Petra and Wadi Rum.
Haya Al Naimat: A cultural guide based in Amman known for her insightful tours focusing on the art, history, and architecture of the capital.
Unique Local Experiences:
Floating in the Dead Sea at Dead Sea Wellness Retreat by Ma’in Hot Springs: Provides a wellness retreat experience featuring mineral hot spring baths and holistic spa treatments near the Dead Sea. Experience the unique buoyancy and therapeutic mud baths at the Dead Sea, an activity not to be missed.
Stargazing in Wadi Rum with Wadi Rum Night Luxury Camp: Offers guided stargazing experiences in the heart of the desert, where the absence of light pollution reveals the stunning night sky.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Aqaba Aquarium: Offers a fascinating glimpse into the marine life of the Red Sea, ideal for families.
Children’s Museum in Amman: Engages kids with interactive exhibits and educational activities.
Festivals and Events: Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts: Held annually in the ancient city of Jerash, this festival features live music, dance, and theatrical performances.
Eco-Friendly Options:
Feynan Ecolodge: Stay in an eco-friendly lodge in Dana Biosphere Reserve, offering guided nature walks and sustainability-focused experiences.
Jordan Eco Tours: Specialises in eco and adventure tours, including hiking, bird watching, and cultural tours in Dana Biosphere Reserve and other protected areas.
SHOPPING
Bustling Squares:
Rainbow Street in Amman: A vibrant and popular urban area, known for its lively atmosphere with cafes, street food vendors, and frequent cultural events. It's a hub for both locals and tourists to gather, offering a slice of Jordanian lifestyle.
Shopping Markets:
Souk Jara: A seasonal Friday market held on Rainbow Street, it features a variety of handmade crafts, antiques, and local artworks. It’s a must-visit for those looking to discover Jordanian crafts.
The Balad: Downtown Amman's old market, known for its traditional shops selling everything from spices and textiles to pottery and silver jewellery.
Al Balad Market: Dive into the heart of Amman’s downtown market where you can sample everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to traditional sweets like baklava.
Shopping Districts:
Taj Mall in Abdoun: This is one of Amman’s most luxurious shopping districts, offering a range of high-end international brands and designer boutiques.
Abdali Boulevard: Known as the "new downtown," this area combines luxury shopping with dining and entertainment, providing a modern shopping experience in the heart of Amman.
Iconic Shops and Boutiques:
La Maison: A high-end boutique in Amman that features luxury clothing designs from top Jordanian and regional designers, perfect for those looking to explore Arab haute couture.
Jordan River Foundation Showroom: Located in Amman, this boutique offers high-quality traditional and contemporary handicrafts made by local artisans, supporting community development projects across Jordan.
Bisharat Golf Club Pro Shop: For something uniquely Jordanian, this shop offers custom-made sand bottles, a popular local souvenir that showcases intricate designs made using colored sands from the Jordanian desert.
The Good Book Shop: This unique bookstore in Amman offers a wide selection of English and Arabic books, local art, and often hosts live music and cultural events, making it a cultural shopping experience.
Art Galleries and Local Crafts:
Darat al Funun: A small art gallery and cultural hub located in Amman, offering not only art pieces for purchase but also a deep dive into contemporary Arab art.
Wild Jordan Center: Not only does this center provide information about Jordan's nature reserves, but it also sells products made by local communities from these areas, which include organic jams, handmade crafts, and natural cosmetics.
Dar Ne'meh, Amman Citadel, Museum Street, Amman, Jordan
Photo by Zaid Haddad via Unsplash.
DINING
Epicurean Delights:
Fakhreldin Restaurant: Renowned for its upscale take on traditional Jordanian and Middle Eastern cuisine, located in Amman.
Sufra Restaurant: Offers a traditional Jordanian dining experience with a modern twist, also located in Amman.
Romero Restaurant: A longstanding gourmet restaurant in Amman that offers a refined Mediterranean and Jordanian menu in an elegant setting.
Iconic Street Food:
Falafel and Shawarma: Visit Hashem Restaurant in downtown Amman, a beloved spot for falafel, hummus, and shawarma.
Falafel Al-Quds: Another legendary spot in Amman for falafel, distinctly known for its unique flavour and crispiness.
Mansaf: Try this traditional Bedouin dish of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice at Jabri Restaurant.
Local Eats:
Al-Quds: Known for its authentic Jordanian cuisine, particularly the mansaf, located in downtown Amman.
Habibah Sweets: Famous for Knafeh, a must-try sweet cheese pastry.
Shams El Balad: A farm-to-table café in Amman that champions sustainable dining with a menu featuring traditional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Special Meals:
Petra Kitchen: Offers a unique dining experience where visitors can participate in cooking classes to learn how to prepare local dishes.
Dinner in the Sky: Experience dining suspended in the air with stunning views of Amman, offering a menu of Jordanian and international dishes.
Iconic Must-Try Dishes:
Zarb: Bedouin barbecue cooked underground; best experienced in Wadi Rum.
Maqluba: An upside-down dish of rice, vegetables, and chicken or lamb, best enjoyed at local eateries like Al-Quds.
Moutabel: Smoky eggplant dip, commonly paired with flatbread. Sample it at Zajal Restaurant, which is known for authentic Levantine cuisine.
Local Beverages:
Arak: This anise-flavored liquor is a popular local spirit.
Jordanian Wine: Try local wines at The Winemaker outlet in Amman.
Limonana: A refreshing mint lemonade that's particularly popular during Jordan’s hot summers. Best tried at street-side cafés throughout Amman.
Pubs, Hidden Bars and Speakeasies:
Murphy's House of Rock Pub: Known for its lively atmosphere and selection of local and imported beers.
Cantaloupe Gastro Pub: Offers great views of Amman along with a solid menu of cocktails and international dishes.
Books@Café: A unique combination of bookstore and café/bar, offering a cozy atmosphere for enjoying a drink among books and art, located in Amman.
Bars & Restaurants with a View:
The Terrace at The Boulevard: Located in Abdali, it's perfect for a meal with views of modern Amman.
Skyline Sushi: A rooftop restaurant in Amman offering great city views and excellent sushi.
Wild Jordan Center: Features a café that not only offers spectacular views over the old city of Amman but also focuses on organic and local ingredients.
EXTRA TIPS FOR AN AMAZING TIME IN JORDAN
Explore As-Salt, an ancient town with beautiful Ottoman architecture and less tourist traffic compared to more famous sites.
Visit Mukawir, the hilltop fortress where John the Baptist was believed to be imprisoned and beheaded, offering stunning views of the Dead Sea.
Take a cooking class at Beit Sitti, an initiative in Amman that teaches traditional cooking in a home setting.
Discover Umm Qais, which offers panoramic views of the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights, away from the mainstream tourist paths.
Stroll through the Abu Darwish Mosque, famed for its striking black-and-white checkered pattern, located on one of Amman’s hills.
Experience the lesser-known Amman Design Week, an event that focuses on local and regional designers and artists, held biennially.
Visit the Royal Automobile Museum in Amman, which displays a fascinating collection of cars from the royal family.
Check out Jordan’s Contemporary Art Scene at Gallery Ras Ain, which frequently hosts exhibitions of emerging Jordanian and international artists.
Experience the tranquility of Ajloun Castle at sunset, an Islamic fortress nestled in the hills north of Amman, less frequented by tourists.
For a unique beach experience, explore the quieter and pristine shores of the South Beach area in Aqaba where the coral reefs are ideal for snorkeling.
Visit the Jordan Museum in Amman late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and take a leisurely stroll through Jordan’s history and culture.
Attend an evening of storytelling or a musical performance at the cultural café Jadal in Amman, which is known for promoting local arts.
Explore Al Salt: Recently developed as a tourist destination, Al Salt offers beautiful Ottoman architecture and a historic town experience.
Ask Before Photographing People: Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially in tribal areas or conservative regions.
Dress Conservatively: Especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas, dressing conservatively is appreciated.
Ajloun Forest Reserve: For hiking enthusiasts, this reserve offers peaceful trails and the chance to spot local wildlife.
Friday Market at Abdali: A pop-up market where you can find everything from antiques to homemade crafts.
Eco-Tour in Dana Biosphere: Book a sustainable tour through Dana to explore its stunning biodiversity.
Drink Sage Tea: Try this local favorite for a taste of Jordan’s unique herbal tea culture.
Pella: Visit the ancient city of Pella, one of Jordan's lesser-visited archaeological sites, for a peaceful exploration without crowds.
Iraq Al-Amir Women’s Cooperative: Visit for a unique chance to see local women producing handmade pottery and fabrics.
Shop at Bani Hamida Women's Weaving Project: Support local craftswomen and find unique woven goods to take home.
Understanding Jordanian Hospitality: When offered coffee or tea in a local shop, it’s polite to accept; it signifies respect and appreciation for their hospitality.
Eat Like a Local in Amman: Try Hashem in downtown Amman for an authentic and budget-friendly breakfast of falafel and hummus.
Public Beach Visit: Instead of the private beaches, visit the local public beaches early in the morning for a quiet, authentic experience by the Red Sea.
Photography at Amman Citadel: For stunning cityscape shots, visit during sunset. The golden light offers a breathtaking view over downtown Amman.
Stay Vigilant in Busy Areas: While Amman is relatively safe, always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places like markets or public transport.
Visit Petra in Early Morning or Late Afternoon: Avoid the crowds and the heat by visiting early in the morning or later towards closing time. The light is especially beautiful for photography during these hours.
