jordan tours reviews

• Jordan Tours

Jordan Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Jordan has been enticing travelers for years with its world heritage sites like Petra, spectacular desert vistas in Wadi Rum, and the welcoming communities of Amman. Explore the country at affordable rates and experience the ecological regions of the country with the help of our Jordan budget tours . Delve into the culture and history of the nation on one of our Jordan-guided tours . Looking for adventure? Go on camping, canyoning, or float in the Dead Sea on one of our Jordan group tours . If you enjoy camel or 4WD desert rides with your family, our Jordan family tour packages have got you covered. Book one of our Jordan private tours to discover the hidden jewels of the country at your own pace. An ideal gateway to the Middle East, Jordan is undoubtedly a complete travel package and ought to be on the bucket list of all travelers.

• Jordan Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit Jordan
• Top 13 Things To Do in Jordan

157 Trips in Jordan with 236 Reviews

• Starts Amman, Jordan
• Ends Amman, Jordan

Essential Jordan (4 Star Hotels)

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Desert safaris City sightseeing , Desert safaris & Chill out 'data-more-tripid='12839'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Camping & Luxury Hotel
• Transport Bus, Coach & 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,015
• Special Deal (45%): - US$ 907
• Total Price from: US$ 1,108
• May 19 10+ seats left
• May 26 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Jordan Express

• Trip customizable
• Activities City sightseeing & Desert safaris
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• May 20 10+ seats left
• Jun 03 10+ seats left

• Ends Dead Sea, Jordan

A Week in Jordan

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Local culture & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,173
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 208
• Total Price from: US$ 1,965
• Aug 03 Only 8 seats left
• Sep 14 Only 8 seats left

Highlights of Jordan

• Activities City sightseeing & Desert safaris City sightseeing , Desert safaris & Camping 'data-more-tripid='4886'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Tent, Luxury Hotel & Resort
• Transport 4WD Jeep, Bus, Taxi, Boat & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,499
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 375
• Total Price from: US$ 1,124
• May 17 10+ seats left
• May 19 Only 6 seats left

• Ends Madaba, Jordan

One Week in Jordan

• Activities Adventure
• Accommodation Tent & Hotel
• Transport Private Vehicle & 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 18-35 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 850
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 128
• Total Price from: US$ 722
• May 30 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 20 Only 8 seats left

Petra & Wadi Rum Trek

• Activities Deserts and canyons & Trekking and Hiking Deserts and canyons , Trekking and Hiking & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='7941'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Camping
• Transport Bus
• Oct 05 Only 8 seats left
• Oct 19 Only 8 seats left

Hidden Treasures of Jordan

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Resort
• Transport Minibus & 4WD Jeep
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,298
• Special Deal (4%): - US$ 148
• Total Price from: US$ 3,150

Trending Destinations in Jordan

Petra & Wadi Rum by Bike

• Activities Bicycle tours
• Accommodation Hotel, Camping & Tent
• Transport Bus & 4WD Jeep
• Oct 12 Only 8 seats left

Experience Jordan: 8-Day Tour

• Activities Desert safaris & Cultural, religious and historic sites Desert safaris , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Beach , City sightseeing , Local culture & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='24057'>+4 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Hut & Sleeping Hut
• Transport Jeep, Boat, Private Vehicle & Bus
• Age Range 1-80 yrs

Jordan Discovery

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Deserts and canyons Natural landmarks sightseeing , Deserts and canyons & Camping 'data-more-tripid='3116'>+1 more
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,260
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 565
• Total Price from: US$ 1,695
• May 23 Only 8 seats left
• May 30 Only 9 seats left

Best of Jordan

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Local culture
• Transport Coach, 4WD Jeep & Minibus
• Jun 02 10+ seats left

Petra, Wadi Rum & Dead Sea in Three Days

• Free cancellation
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Cultural, religious and historic sites Trekking and Hiking , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Desert safaris , Deserts and canyons & Beach 'data-more-tripid='29851'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Tent
• Transport 4WD Jeep, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 18-70 yrs

Seven Day Private Tour of Jordan

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing , Desert safaris , Deserts and canyons & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='31293'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Tent & Camping
• Transport Jeep
• Age Range 12-82 yrs

• Activities Road trips & Cultural, religious and historic sites Road trips , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & 4x4, quad and ATV trips 'data-more-tripid='17951'>+2 more

Traveling to Jordan? Chat with a local travel specialist in Jordan who can help organize your trip.

Jordan Tour Reviews

• Susan LaVigne
• Whitney Hinnant
• Michael Meyer

Jordan - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Located at the crossroads of Asia , Africa , and Europe , Jordan is a representation of all of the intersections that occur in that crossroads. Once home to Romans and Ottomans, holidays to Jordan will bring you its rich history and culture filled with color, heart, and vibrancy. Bordered by Iraq, Iran , Saudi Arabia, and Israel , a trip to Jordan has something for all travel bugs.

Tour Highlights

• Visit the ancient Nabataean city of Petra, and go back in time to when things were a little simpler; if that’s not enough, it’s a modern Wonder of the World.
• Experience the viciously natural cycle of Wadi Rum, a desert that is a day away from Aqaba and Petra.
• Swim with the fishes in the Red Sea.
• See wildlife and scenery that is ancient while remaining timeless at the Dana Biosphere Reserve.
• Live in the dichotomy of the city of Amman ; urbane and modern in the West, and earthy and ancient in the East.

Travel Tips

• Other than covering yourself appropriately — men with legs covered and women with arms, legs, and hair covered —there aren’t many customs that you need to worry about. 
• It is a very safe place to be; none of the revolts or riots have spilled over from its neighbors. However, being a tourist, one needs to follow the usual safety precautions.
• Bring good walking shoes and breathable clothing; it’s hot and you’re going to be doing a lot of walking.
• Water is safe to drink, although it is heavily chlorinated so it might taste bad; just to be safe, stick with bottled water and pasteurized milk.
• Be aware of your sun limits; the sun is brutal and you could get badly sunburnt, or worse, pass out from heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
• If you need it, healthcare in Jordan is generally good, and there are hospitals in big cities and clinics in smaller villages.

Jordan has seasonal weather so please do check up on best time to visit Jordan before planning your tour. If you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Jordan, do check out our Jordan Travel Guide for more information.

Popular tour types in Jordan

• Jordan private tours:  Book one of our Jordan private tours to discover the country’s historical, and mythical sights while learning more about the Christian heritage. Tour the beautiful capital of Amman and go sightseeing in Petra and Wadi Rum. Head to the Dead Sea, and on your way, stop by Mount Nebo. Do not forget to try out the local favorite, Taboon bread.
• Jordan group tours:  Join a group of travelers to learn more about the history and culture of the country with one of our Jordan group tours . Admire the dramatic desert scenery of Wadi Rum, experience traditional life in Orjan village, and camp in a Bedouin tent. Alternatively, you can trek from Dana to Petra in the company of adventurous souls just like you.
• Jordan-guided tours:  Join one of our Jordan-guided tours to discover the hidden gems of the land. Encounter some unforgettable moments as you traverse Kerak, the Dead Sea, Petra, Madaba, Jerash, and Amman. From one destination to the other, grasp the splendor of the whole country under the guidance of knowledgeable guides.
• Jordan family tour packages:  Planning a family holiday in Jordan? Explore the enchanted old Jordan with one of our exciting Jordan family tour packages . Watch history brought to life in Petra, camp under a blanket of stars in Wadi Rum, and dip yourself in the Red Sea. And do not forget to go on exciting camel rides and 4WD desert safaris.
• Jordan eco-tours:  Despite being small, Jordan is home to several nature reserves, Unesco World Heritage sites, and magnificently preserved ruins. With our Jordan eco-tours , you can have it all. from floating in the Dead Sea, canyoning through Wadi Mujib to exploring Ajloun Forest Reserve to greeting sand cats and Syrian wolves at the Dana Biosphere Reserve. 
• Jordan budget tours:  Traveling on a budget? Take up one of our Jordan budget tours that will take you through every destination you wish to visit at an affordable price. Discover Petra’s secrets, stroll through Jerash’s ancient streets, relax in the Dead Sea and taste some local delicacies, all while going easy on your wallet. You can also opt to travel by bike or a minibus and limit your journey to a few key destinations like Amman and Madaba.
• Jordan customized tours:  With Bookmundi, your itinerary can be changed and tailored to your personal preferences. Whatever your travel aspirations are, a customized Jordan trip may help you realize them all. Whether it is Petra, Madaba, the Dead Sea, or Jerash, get in touch with our local travel specialists in Jordan to plan the perfect itinerary and realize your vacation dreams.

Activity-based Jordan tours

Cultural, religious, and historic tours:  Besides the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ, the Roman ruins of Umm Qais, the majestic Ajloun Castle, and St. George’s Church, Jordan is also home to a large collection of sacred monuments and cultural artifacts. With our Jordan's cultural, religious, and historic tours , discover and explore the many ancient sites and treasures strewn across Jordan.

Desert safari tours:  Explore the majestic landscape of Wadi Rum on our desert safari tours . See the dunes and canyons that change color throughout the day as you wander the sandy desert on a camel or a jeep safari. Spend the night in a Bedouin-style desert camp and fall asleep while gazing at the starry sky.

Local culture tours:  Immerse yourself in Jordan’s rich and diverse culture by taking the cultural tours of the capital Amman to the incredible Madaba to the best preserved Roman ruins in Jerash. Our local culture tours will also take you to Petra, Aqaba, and Orjan, where you will find unique insight into Jordan’s storied history and culture.

Adventure tours:  From sliding across the Wadi Hidan canyon to cycling along the Jordan bike trail and exploring the beautiful seabed of the Red Sea, our adventure tours of Jordan pack distinct experiences. Take a trek through the rocky hills near Ajloun, take a jeep tour in the Wadi Rum desert, and do not miss out on a scuba diving adventure in Aqaba.

Art and architecture tours:  Jordan is home to some of the most beautiful, classical art and architecture influenced by the Roman and Ottoman empires. Dive deeper into Jordanian history as you tour the well-preserved treasures and ancient sites of the country in one of our art and architecture tours of Jordan . You will be visiting the Jordan Folklore Museum, Amman's Citadels, the Amphitheater, and Petra’s Treasury, among other sites, in these illuminating tours.

Trekking tours:  From Wadi Rum’s dramatic beauty of jebels to the magnificent desert canyon with immense rock walls, Siq el Barrah, experience Jordan’s noteworthy geography and biodiversity on the country’s hiking routes. Join one of our Jordan's trekking tours through Dana to Petra, the Wadi Mukheires waterfall trail, or Petra’s Siq.

Popular durations for Jordan trip

Jordan tours — Top destinations to visit

• Unveil the hidden jewel of Amman:  Discover the traditional and conservative energy of Jordan's hilly capital, which is home to world-class museums, labyrinthine souks, and beautiful Islamic architecture. Amman is a charming, underrated travel destination that can introduce you to Jordan’s rich heritage. Visit the Jordan Archeological Museum and the city's Citadel. Visit the Royal Automobile Museum nearby the Roman Theater, or the Jordan Museum to learn more about the country’s past. Then, escape Amman's chaotic traffic and unwind on Rainbow Street before exploring the city's vibrant nightlife.
• Travel back in time to Petra:  Petra, also known as the "Rose City," thrives with its multicolored sandstone and authentic Nabatean architecture in the windswept landscape of southern Jordan. The city draws lots of hikers, nature lovers, and, of course, those seeking an escape from the hectic modern lifestyle. From the Obelisk Tomb and Bab AL-Siq Tricilinium, begin your 1200-meter journey and pause at the Al-Khazneh Treasury, then continue your hike along the Wadi Farusa trail while marveling at the royal tombs and admiring the Treasury from the Jebel Al-Khubtha Trail. You can also visit Colonnaded Street, the Great Temple, the Petra Churches, and Little Petra while on a tour of Petra .
• Enjoy a rejuvenating dip in the Dead Sea:  The Dead Sea, which borders Jordan and Israel, is 67 kilometers long and 18 kilometers wide, boasting a stunning location. At this exceptional location, you can enjoy relaxing activities like soaking in thermal hot springs, thrilling hike-swims, and much more, in addition to simply relaxing in the water. Unwind in the waters of the lowest point on Earth while enjoying therapeutic spa services that have a distinct Dead Sea feel. On a wet hike, visit the ruins of Mukawir and explore the Wadi Mujib canyon. Visit Lot's Cave Monastery and Sodom and Gomorrah on the way to the Lisan Peninsula. And do not forget to take a dip in the Hammamat Ma'in Thermal Springs and sit on a ridge to admire the expansive Dead Sea panorama.
• Follow the steps of Jesus Christ at Holy Land:  A revitalizing Holy Land tour not only satisfies your spiritual aspirations and curiosities but also allows you to experience its historical significance. A trip to the Holy Land is not complete without going to the Great Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Visit Mount Nebo, where Moses could see Canaan, and rediscover Bethany Beyond the Jordan, where Jesus was baptized. Swing by Jabar Mar-Elias, the site of Elijah's ascension, or take the Jordan Trail past the ruins of Gadara, the site of the Gadarene swine miracle. If you really want to get lost in the stories of the Bible, head to Jordan and stay in Amman, Jerash, Tel Mar Elias, or Pella.
• Discover the thrilling adventures of Wadi Rum:  In southern Jordan, near the Saudi Arabian border, this 74,200-hectare reserve flourishes as a mixed cultural and natural site. Explore Wadi Rum and its narrow gorges, ramps, natural arches, massive landslides and caverns, and towering cliffs are evidence of millions of years of landscape evolution. Camel rides, hikes, 4WD rides, camping, and a variety of other exciting activities are available among these shifting desert landscapes. While camping in Wadi Rum, you can stargaze and watch the landscape change throughout the night. Climb the beautiful Little Bridge or Burdah rock bridge for a breathtaking view of the desert. Hike through the canyon of Abu Khashaba and eat a traditional Bedouin lunch. Sandboarding on the Al Hasany dunes is a must-do activity.
• Tick off the highlights in Madaba: Visit Madaba , a friendly market town, that is known for its collection of Byzantine-era mosaics and has one of Jordan's largest Christian populations. This vibrantly colored city encompasses numerous attractions through its historical sites and offers a hearty Jordanian experience. Visit St. George's Church to see the amazing Mosaic map and the Church of Apostles to see the inscribed figures of 12 apostles. View the entire city and the Jordan River from the top of Mount Nebo, or visit Carpet City for the best quality and most beautiful carpets. And if you happen to be in Madaba on a Friday, you will be able to witness the town's long tradition of joyfully and loudly expressing its religious tolerance at dawn.

Peak season and low season tours in Jordan

• Jordan in March
• Jordan in April
• Jordan in May
• Jordan in June
• Jordan in July
• Jordan in August

Popular Jordan trip travel guide

If you are planning a trip to Jordan , you will want to know about the best time to visit Jordan as well as check out all the available Jordan tours. You may also wish to learn more about the top things to do in Jordan . Once you are sure about some of the activities you wish to experience in Jordan, along with the destinations you want to visit , you may want to consider how many days to stay in Jordan . We generally recommend staying at least 7 days in Jordan , but recommend 10 days in Jordan or more, to get the most out of your trip to Jordan.

Next, we recommend you start thinking about the money you can allocate to the trip to know whether you should be looking for a budget tour, a luxury tour, or perhaps a completely customized tour to Jordan . If you are in doubt, check out all our Jordan tours at the top of this page.

Jordan is an amazing country to visit, and there may be other key factors that you wish to consider traveling there. Please check our " Jordan travel guide " which will give you a lot of relevant information about traveling to Jordan.

Tours in Jordan - Questions and Answers

Most foreign visitors need a visa to enter Jordan, although some nationalities can apply for a visa on arrival. We advise that you research Jordan’s visa requirements for your country before making travel arrangements.

Even though the official language of Jordan is Arabic, English is widely spoken in the country. Besides Arabic, English and a number of minority languages, you can also find French and German-speaking people in Jordan. 

March to May are the busiest tourist months to visit Jordan. September to February is also ideal for travel due to the generally good weather, except for the biting cold nights in the desert areas. It is not advised to travel to Jordan between June and August unless you are prepared to deal with intense heat. However, the  best time to visit Jordan  is between March and May, when the weather is perfect, even when you want to travel to the desert.

Jordan is one of the safest countries in the Middle East. There is a robust security arrangement throughout the country. Apart from petty theft and crime, as are common in most countries, foreigners have nothing serious to fear while traveling in Jordan.

A  five-day Jordan itinerary  is enough to cover the country's highlights. But if you plan to explore Jordan at your own pace and savor its unique landscape, we recommend spending at least 10 days in the country.

• Jordan budget tours
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Popular Destinations

• Amman Tours
• Dead Sea Tours
• Madaba Tours
• Petra Tours
• Wadi Rum Tours

Popular Activities

• Art and architecture tours
• City sightseeing tours
• Cultural, religious and historic sites tours
• Desert safaris tours
• Explorer tours
• Natural landmarks sightseeing tours

Upcoming Departures

• Spring 2024/2025
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• Winter 2024/2025
• August 2024
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• October 2024
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Top Tours in Jordan, Middle East

Jordan tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 2-Day Tour: Petra, Wadi Rum, and Dead Sea from Amman

2. From Amman: Private full day Petra and Wadi rum

3. 3-Hours Guided Food Tour in Amman

4. 2-Day Petra, Wadi Rum and Dead Sea Tour from Amman

5. 3-Day Private Tour from Amman: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dana, Aqaba, and Dead Sea

6. Amman Petra Full-Day Trip

7. Private Diving Experience in The Heart of Red Sea in Aqaba

8. From Amman Madaba Mount Nebo Baptism site and Dead Sea

9. From Amman: Private Full Day Tour Jerash Ajloun & Um Qais

10. Full-Day Private Trip To Petra, Wadi Rum

11. Petra Temple And Jordan full day Tour From Sharm El Sheikh

12. Full Day Jeep Tour with Overnight in beduin Camp Stay! (All Meals Included)

13. Wadi Rum Cave Camping with Jeep Tour

14. Private Walking Tour in Amman With Local

15. 4 Hour Jeep Tour (morning or sunset) - Wadi Rum Desert Highlights

16. Private beach access with lunch and boat trip

17. Full-Day Trip in Petra from Aqaba

18. Private Half-Day Tour to the Dead Sea from Amman 

19. Private Petra Back Entrance Tour with Guide .

20. Day Tour to Petra from Amman

21. Full Day Private Walking Tour in Amman Jordan

22. 3-hour Private Guided Tour In Petra with hotel pick up.

23. 8-Hour Small Group Jeep Tour in Wadi Rum ( With Meal +Overnight )

24. Hot Air Balloon Flight at Wadi Rum

25. Journey of Diving or Snorkelling from a Boat

26. Full-Day Jeep Tour in Wadi Rum with Overnight Stay

27. 3 Day Trip - Petra, Wadi Rum and Dead Sea from Amman

28. Private Street Food and Walking Tour Amman Downtown

29. Amman Private City Tour

30. Day Tour - Madaba, Mount Nebo and Baptism Site

What travellers are saying.

Jordan Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 338 most popular jordan trips. compare tour itineraries from 83 tour companies. 1,172 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular jordan tours.

Hidden Treasures of Jordan

• Visit desert castles, steeped in centuries of history
• Explore the ancient city of Jerash and Bethany
• Float in the Dead Sea
• Visit Mount Nebo, claimed to be Moses' burial site
• Enjoy two days in Petra, the Red Rose City

Jordan Discovery

• A journey through the best of Jordan, from Roman ruins to the Red Sea
• Spend two full days exploring the tombs and temples of The Rose Red City of Petra
• Experience Bedouin living at a secluded traditional camp on the sands of Wadi Rum

Premium Jordan

• Spend a day exploring the majesty and mystery of Petra, embark on a 4WD drive adventure through wind-swept rock formations of Wadi Rum and experience the unique sensation of floating in the Dead Sea.
• Lift the lid on Jordanian cuisine when you dine in a fantastic local restaurant in Amman, and learn the tricks of the trade during an immersive cooking class run by three sisters in the home of their grandmother.
• Experience isolated elegance during your Feature Stay at a comfortable Bedouin-style camp in Wadi Rum. Enjoy modern comforts while being surrounded by the vast desert, natural sandstone sculptures and a sky jewelled with stars.
• Embrace local life as you travel with a passionate Jordanian leader, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the communities and historic sites you visit.
• Join your Bedouin hosts in Wadi Rum for an Exclusive Experience to remember. Tuck into a traditional dinner cooked in a zarb (underground oven) while learning about the Bedouin way of life.

Explore Jordan

• Visit the ancient ruins of jerash and petra
• Watch a cooking demonstration and taste local specialties
• Float in the dead sea
• Thunder through the red-hued desertscapes of wadi rum
• Enjoy a lecture from an archaeologist

Jordan Experience (Small Groups, Summer, Dead Sea Extension)

• The Ruins of Mount Nebo, Explore the Ancient City of Petra
• Jerash: Feel like you have stepped 2,000 years back in time as your Travel Director guides you through this marvelous ancient metropolis - now the finest surviving example of a Greco-Roman city in the world!
• Petra: Explore the ancient and hidden 'rose-red' city, as you journey with your Travel Director, through the winding, dark passageway, between rock walls up to 200 meters high. See the Treasury and explore the Roman Amphitheater and ancient tombs.
• Wadi Rum: Enjoy beautiful desert scenery as you make your way on a jeep safari deep into the heart of Wadi Rum's majestic desert.
• Amman: During a city tour of Amman, visit the Citadel, the grand Roman Amphitheater and the Archaeological Museum.

Classic Egypt and Jordan

• Marvel at the magnificent pyramids at Giza
• Discover the Valley of the Kings in Luxor
• Cruise down the powerful Nile
• Explore the Roman ruins of Jerash
• Get lost in the pink city of Petra

Jordan Uncovered (Summer)

Jordan in 11 days - From Petra to the Red Sea - Luxury

• Ajloun Castle

All Jordan , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Jordan

Small Group Jordan Tours

• With an included two-day pass to majestic Petra, you will not only have a guided tour of the complex but will also spend time at your leisure to focus on the sections that interest you.
• Experience the best buoyance this side of outer space with time for your small group to effortlessly float in the super-salty waters of the Dead Sea.
• Hop in a jeep and see the extraordinary desert scenery of Wadi Rum – a rugged lunar-like landscape of huge sandstone mountains and ancient structures hidden in the sandy dunes.
• After your day of four-wheel-driving in Wadi Rum, spend a night under the stars with a special experience at a desert camp run by Bedouin locals – full of good food and warm hospitality.
• Marvel at the well-preserved ancient Roman city of Jerash on a guided tour, and discover the religious significance and Ottoman and Byzantine influence in Madaba.

Walking Jordan's Spice Trails

• A week long adventure packed with awe inspiring walks and Jordan's unmissable highlights
• Walk into Petra from the back door and hike through its magnificient tombs and temples
• Trek across the dunes of Wadi Rum and stay overnight at a traditional Bedouin camp

Kingdoms of Jordan - Premium Adventure

• Spend an unforgettable two days exploring the Nabataean Kingdom of Petra
• Experience the vibrant city of Amman, capital of the modern Kingdom of Jordan, and visit ancient sites such as the Citadel and Roman Theatre
• Explore the well-preserved ruins of Roman Jerash, with our expert leader teaching you about the fascinating history
• Gaze at a star-filled sky and enjoy traditional music around the campfire at Wadi Rum
• Experience the natural phenomenon of the Dead Sea as you float in its salt waters

Best Jordan Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

Best Jordan Tours by Price

Top Jordan Attractions

• Standing before the candle-lit Treasury at night in Petra , one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
• Exploring the Roman ruins and temples in the historic city of Jerash.
• Learning the ‘other side’ of the history of the Crusades  while exploring Ajloun Castle.
• Wandering the labyrinthine streets of old Amman while you sample local street foods and window shop.
• Admiring the intricate Byzantine mosaics and learning their history in the town of Madaba.
• Hike through the Holy Land following in Abraham, Moses, Noah, and Jesus’ steps from the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights to the riches of the Jordan Valley
• Looking out toward the ‘Promised Land’ from Mount Nebo, where Moses is rumored to be buried.
• Hiking in the refreshing clear waters of Wadi Mujeb while canyon walls tower all around you.
• Stargazing from the rooftops of the historic town of Dana.
• Learning the edible plants and enjoying a tea ceremony while hiking through the Dana Bio Reserve .
• Exploring the massive Nabatean city of Petra beyond the famous Treasury and Monastery ruins.
• Scale castles from the Crusades and see the most intact Romans cities outside of Rome from Amman to Jerash and Pella in the Jordan Valley
• Dipping your toes in the Red Sea after a day shopping in Aqaba.
• Enjoying a traditional Bedouin dinner before camping out in Wadi Rum.
• Ride a camel on the red sands of the Wadi Rum that inspired Lawrence of Arabia
• Floating peacefully in the Dead Sea .

Jordan Tours & Travel

Jordan Attractions & Landmarks Guide

Jordan is a stable country in the Middle East that enjoys a peaceful border with Israel -- the Israeli resort city of Eilat on the Red Sea is literally within walking distance of the Jordanian city of Aqaba.

Often overlooked due to its geographic location in the tumultuous Middle East region , Jordan is a haven for international travelers. Prevalent cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and world-class hospitality help welcome visitors to Jordan each year, despite regional safety concerns and distorted perceptions of traveling and daily life in Jordan.   

If you’re looking to whet your appetite for the Middle East, learn both old and modern history, and come home with once-in-a-lifetime memories from some of the world’s most impressive sights, Jordan is a destination worth exploring.

Why Visit Jordan on a Guided Tour?

Traveling independently  or  solo has its charms, such as freedom to roam and the flexibility to traverse through a destination at your own pace, but traveling in a group has its own benefits and charm too.

Traveling one a private or   small group tour or a   large group tour ,  everything is taken care of allowing you to soak in more of the details of the destination rather than fussing with maps, translation apps, crossed communication due to language differences, and anything and everything else that can go terribly or pleasantly wrong. It is no longer your problem to solve when you are on a group tour.

Traveling is an adventure and what better way to travel than making new friends? It’s a great way to share and make those memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.

It’s safer, especially in areas that are experiencing some economic and political turmoil, to travel in groups with a trusted guide. The guide has your back, spotting safety concerns and divert the group to a safe place.

See a world you otherwise wouldn’t have seen before. The guide can also or provide access to parts of the country or communities where it would be much more challenging to gain entrance being a foreigner.

Jordan Travel Overview

Jordan provides a friendly introduction into Middle Eastern culture with a western bent. The mostly Muslim country bordered by Saudi Arabia in the south and east, Iraq in the northeast, Syria in the north, and Israel and Palestine in the west was once influenced by trading merchants, religious wars, and the Romans who have all left their mark over the millennia.

Recently Jordan, which was at the center of the Nabatean merchants trading route between Damascus and Egypt in the Iron Age during the first centuries B.C., revived the 400-mile stretch, once known as the King’s Highway renamed as the Jordan Trail . The Nabatean’s were a nomadic Arabian tribe that eventually settled in Jordan as well as the Naqab desert and Palestine over a period of time during the sixth century B.C.

They built the famous ancient city Petra – Indiana Jones fans will recognize the “Rose City” immediately. For hikers and history buffs (amateurs to the well-trekked) the trail, which opened in 2016, is the best way to truly get to know the small and often overlooked country in an off-the-beaten-path way. The trail winds and twists its way through many if not all of Jordan’s historic sites and natural wonders as well as 52 villages and towns.

See All Hiking Tours in Jordan  »

There are, of course, easier ways that take less time than nearly 45-days of hiking (depending on how fast you trek) to get to know Jordanians and the country nearly as rich in biblical history as Israel with the Dead Sea parting the two countries. However, the countries are worlds apart. This can simply be experienced walking between the resort cities that reside within walking distance of each other on the edge of the Red Sea: Aqaba in Jordan and Eilat in Israel.

Close to Aqaba is Wadi Rum (Valley of the Moon), a popular spot for climbing mountains and hiking or camel riding through the desert rock formations. Jordan also borders the Dead Sea and contains numerous  biblical sites . 

Jordan's top attraction is the ancient rock city of Petra, where temples, treasuries and houses are carved out of sheer rock faces. The UNESCO site is only a few hours' drive away from the resort city, but don’t overlook the journey to Petra in the "siq", translated it means canyon, but its more accurately a gorge, filled with spiritual monuments and carvings along its narrow walls along the pathway to the ancient Nabataean city.

Al-Karak, also known as Karak or Kerak, is home Kerak Castle, a Crusader Castle , which is one of three of the region’s largest castles, resides between Petra and Madaba. The castle was built and utilized by Crusaders but later it was used by the Islamic armies of Saladin and even Islamic terrorists in more recent years.

Jordan’s mosaic city Madaba is home to the country’s largest Christian communities. The city is one of Jordan’s most traveler-friendly cities hosting visitors for millennia through the Byzantine, Hellenistic, Islamic, and Roman ears that traveled the King’s Highway, the main trading route that was restored in 2016.

Travelers can relax at the more well-known Dead Sea or escape the crowds at nearby Ma’in Hot Springs where cold and hot springs rush over the rocks in cascading waterfalls into pools above the cliffs of a wadi, translated riverbed, into the Zarqa river.

Other hot springs in Jordan include the Al Hemma hot springs, popular with the Roman dignitaries and vacationers, located north of Umm Qais and about a 45-minute drive from Jerash.

Rich in minerals and salts, the Dead Sea is renowned for its healing properties. It is also a popular destination for Israelis and Jordanians on each side of the border to cool off and simply float, smother themselves in the mineral rich mud, and float again in the salty water. It’s so worth ruining a good pair of water shoes for this once in a lifetime experience.

The youthful capital city of Jordan, Amman , is historic with the magisterial Citadel, mosques, Roman ruins and an active café scene in the city’s center. Further out, the city opens up residential treelined neighborhoods filled with art galleries, shopping, on the western side of the city and where the eastern side of the city is more somber with a more traditional vibe.

The Jordan Valley , translated into Arabic "the Ghor", is known for its rich soil and agriculture. The valley is more than the country’s “food bowl,” it also bursts with pride of its wealth of pristine excavated and unexcavated archeological sites in Pella and Umm Qais, where the Jordan Trail begins.

Above the Jordan Valley are the ancient cities of Jerash and Pella. One of the world’s best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Rome is in the Greco-Roman city of Jerash. The city ruins boast of theaters, coliseums, temples, and monuments. An hour away across the Jordan Valley, Pella has been cited as an archeological jewel with its more than 6,000 years of continuous settlement in the city unearthed in its mounds.

Cities in Jordan

Jordan has several cities of importance, but it’s capital Amman, which is the country’s largest city, and the port city of Aqaba, are the two that serve as entry points or places of rest between the wealth of historical sites the country offers for visitors to explore.

Jordan’s capital city was erected around ancient Roman ruins merging a modern city with its past. Residing on a hilly edge between the Jordan Valley and the desert, Amman enacts a balancing act between its roots deeply seeded in both Europe and the Middle East . The western side of the city is modern lined with homes, art galleries, and cafes and bars shaded by leafy trees. The grittier eastern side of the city is more conservative.

Usually the launching point to the sites of Jordan, most notably Petra, it’s worth spending some time in Amman to see its own sites, such as the Citadel, and particular insight to the Middle East in a western-friendly way it has to offer visitors.

The resort town on the Gulf of Aqaba from the Red Sea is a popular getaway. Aside from the Dead Sea, it offers pristine beaches, incredible snorkeling and diving, culinary delights, and of course easy access to the country’s most treasured sites.

Underwater explorers will indulge themselves of the best the warm waters of the Red Sea have to offer from spectacular coral reefs, including Picasso’s Reef, an underwater mountain off of Pharaoh’s Island, and shipwrecks.

The beaches, private and public, offer sand dwellers and sunbathers ample opportunity to enjoy the sun and water. Two of the best places are where the locals go, the free public beach Palm Beach, also known as Al-Hafayer, and the private beach club, Berenice Beach Club, where you can enjoy the pristine waters, pools, water sports and basically all of the luxury comforts.

Traveling merchants and tradesmen ended their journey in southern Jordan at the port city of Aqaba at the end of the historic trading route, the Jordan Trail . Chefs were introduced to Asian, European, and Middle Eastern ingredients.

Experimenting with the international flavors and ideas they infused traditional Bedouin cuisine with new spices, fruits, vegetables, fish, and meats creating mouthwatering dishes that entice foodies the world over. The best examples can be found in the Old Town Aqaba.

The city is also a favorite entry point to the red desert, Wadi Rum , and the ancient Nabatean city of Petra, also known as the “Rose City.” The sites are nearby as well as historic Arab ruins ready to be explored within the city.

Exploring two cities and countries by foot at once. Aqaba and its Israeli counterpart Eilat are literally steps away from each other.

3. Umm Qais

At the head of the new Jordan Trail in the northern part of the country, Umm Qais offers visitors stunning sweeping views of Jordan, Israel, Palestine and Syria from its perch on top of the Jordan Valley. The area encompasses the Golan Heights, Mount Hermon and the Sea of Galilee. On the edge of Umm Qais, resides the unexcavated ruins of one of the Roman-era Decapolis cities, Gadara, next to an abandoned Ottoman village providing visitors with an awe striking juxtaposition of history and eras long past in the once tumultuous land.

The site boasts of many interesting architectural and archaeological treasures to behold from Roman tombs to the West Theater, but one of the most striking remains is the Basilica Terrace. The terrace is carved directly into bedrock on one side. Shops below it, support it on the other side.

Exploring further, visitors discover the terrace’s main feature, a fifth or sixth century square Byzantine church with its entrance and outer circular passageway still paved with colored geometric titles leading to an alter in the central octagon. 

Just beyond the altar in the atrium, is Gadara’s main street that gives way to the breathtaking view of the Jordan Valley, the Sea of Galilee, the Yarmouk Gorge, and the Golan Heights. The view is worth the long side-trip to get to Umm Qais.

Jerash, which has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, is most notably known for being the site of the most intact Greco-Roman city, Gerasa, outside of Rome. The ancient Hellenistic city’s ruins are located just outside of the northern city that is more than 2,000 years old.

The site takes visitors back to around the first and second centuries when the Roman city was constructed as they wander through Hadrian's Arch, constructed in 129 A.D.; the Corinthian columns of the Temple of Artemis, and the Forum’s oval colonnade to Roman times. The living excavated site displays artifacts found at the Jerash Archaeological Museum.

The “City of Mosaics,” is known for its mid-6th century mosaic map of the Holy Land in the Church of St. George preserved in the Madaba Archaeological Park. The oldest known map of the time was created with more than a million pieces of colored stones along with five other churches and sites in the area resides in the ancient town southwest from Amman that was also along the trade route.

Just to the northwest of Madaba is the biblical hill of Mount Nebo that overlooks the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. Archeologists and history lovers will enjoy the wealth of artifacts dating back to Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine and Islamic eras.

Monumental battles between the Crusaders and the Islamic Armies of Saladin, the first sultan of Egypt and Syria, happened in Karak, locally known as Al-Karak. Saldain eventually won the battle reclaiming the land for Islam. The fortified Kerak Castle built in the 12th century is the most intact Crusader castle in Jordan.

The castle and fortress town along the King’s Highway, the main trade route, played a central role during the Crusades and is filled with passageways, dungeons, kitchens and a chapel that encompass seven levels.

Each one of these cities features modern amenities alongside its historic past offering visitors locally operated accommodations, restaurants, museums, and other amenities.

Top Tips For Visiting Petra

There are some key things you can do to enhance your experience of visiting Jordan’s top attraction the ancient Nabataean city, Petra .

Can you really get to know one of the Seven Wonders of the World in a single day? To really understand or scratch the surface of Petra (archaeologists have only uncovered 15% of the ancient city, 85% of it remains a mystery waiting to be unearthed) it’s suggested to spend two or three days to really let it sink in.

Check to see if your hotel in Wadi Musa offers a free roundtrip shuttle to Petra, taxi or rent a car.

Stay with a Bedouin family for a local experience and support the community.

Hire a Bedouin guide. Who else knows the caves and land better than a Bedouin whose family has resided in the area for generations if not for millennia?

Bargain like a Bedouin when buying their handcrafted scarves, jewelry, and other souvenirs. You will be supporting the people.

To get a full experience of Petra, it’s not only about getting to the famous façade. Take your time during the journey to the ancient Nabataean city. The winding pathways through the siq, translated means canyon, but it’s more accurately a gorge, is filled with spiritual monuments placed on rocks jutting out creating natural shelves and carvings along its narrow walls along the way to the ancient Nabataean city.

Plan to walk a lot. Wear comfortable shoes. Enter from the main gate, but rather than return the same way you came fighting the flow of tourists, exit on a less traveled path that continues forward away from Petra toward the Bedouin village Uum Sayhoun, where the Jordan government resettled the Bedouins who still lived in the Petra caves up until the late 1990s more than a decade after it was designated a UNESCO site.

Dare to explore Little Petra, but you will need a guide for this adventure.

Explore Petra at night when its lit up by the glow of the candlelight. It will provide a whole other experience of Petra.

Jordan Culture - Hospitality & Greetings

Jordanians, especially Bedouins, are warm and welcoming embracing guests inviting them into their homes and to join them for meals, especially for dinner.

Declining invitations , it’s alright to decline an invitation by someone. Simply place your right hand over year heart, smile, and repeatedly express your regret for having another engagement. Take a moment to chat candidly with them rather than rush off. If you rush off, you will be perceived as being rude. If you stay and chat and continue politely decline the invitation several times as a cultural custom and politeness.

When accepting an invitation , inform the host of any dietary restrictions or requirements, such as being vegetarian, and don’t show up empty handed. Bring a token of appreciation to your host. Hand it to them when they greet you and invite you inside and don’t bring it up again as is the custom. You can give children gifts, something simple for them like crayons, books, a ball, in front of the family.

Also, when praising the host’s home, be general, don’t eye or point out décor in the home. Custom is for the host to give it to you and for you to accept it or it will be an insult to the family’s honor.

Jordanians greet guests with a traditional offering of coffee (Turkish or Arabic-style),  tea , or juice accompanied by sweets or a meal. Most Muslims don’t drink alcohol. Drink immediately, so the host can move the evening forward. If you don’t want another cup, twist your wrist back and forth with the cup in your hand to indicate you don’t want anymore.

During holidays or special occasions, it’s tradition to serve Mansaf , a flat bread of lamb cooked in dried yogurt served on a bed of rice on top of the bread.

Guests and hosts sit around a spread laid out in the center of a room in the afternoon when the biggest meal of the day is served. The women serve the guests, including female guests, and men, and disappear into their sphere of the house or tent. Everyone sits around the food tearing off a piece of bread to scoop up food.

Cultural custom forbids using the left hand to eat , use your right hand to feed yourself. Dining is a practiced dance. Let the host serve you. Don’t reach across for what you want it is considered a faux pas. Maintain an easy pace balancing accepting what the host serves you, slow the process down without stopping as you get full, leave food on your plate so you don’t appear greedy. Once the guest stops eating, everyone stops eating. Consider that the women and children eat the leftovers.

When you are done eating. Thank the host with your right hand over your heart saying, “Thank God,” or better al-hamdulillah ( /alˌhamduːlɪˈlɑː/), which translated from Arabic means the same thing.

The second half of the evening happens after everyone washes their hands and adjourn to a lounge. More coffee and tea will be served during the conversing about work and children.

Dodging personal questions about why not more children, or if you don’t have any children, or traveling as an unmarried couple or single woman - there are some things to do to ease the conversation along and take you off of the hot seat:  Have photos ready of family members. Unmarried couples might consider wearing inexpensive wedding bands and explain their engaged to be wed. Single women might consider wearing a wedding band to try to avoid prying questions. It also signals respect. Jordanian men don’t enquire about spouses.

Jordan People & Customs

Jordan is a combination of tradition and modernism with Bedouins, Jordanians, and Palestinians inhabiting the small country.

Bedouins , the Arab nomadic tribe that traditionally inhabited what is now known as Jordan. For centuries Bedouins roamed the Middle East, mostly around North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula inhabiting Jordan, Israel, Syria, Iraq and Egypt , traditionally herding camels and other animals. It’s only within the past few decades that Bedouins have begun to adapt to modern times become semi-nomadic settling throughout Jordan and neighboring countries.

One of the rare countries that allows Palestinians citizenship outside of Palestine, the country has seen more Palestinians, who originally resided west of the Jordan river, inhabiting Jordan. Palestinians have brought greater commerce and education to Jordan.

Jordanians are people who have resided west of the Jordan river since 1946 at the end of World War II when the Ottoman Empire was divided up by the British in accordance to the Balfour Declaration.

A Muslim country, it’s rare to see women inhabit the same public space as men. Labor is divided by gender. Women will wear different head coverings from burka, hijab or niqab. Western women aren’t expected to cover their heads as it’s not a part of their personal culture and Jordanians understand that.

Jordanians are also very forgiving if foreigners accidentally break a cultural customs rule. They are also very appreciative of any attempts to follow customs.

Friday is the holy day where the country comes to a crawl in observance of the spiritual day, so plan accordingly. The same in Israel when on Saturday, Shabbat is observed, and most places are closed, and the electricity is shut off from sunrise to sunset.

Food in Jordan

Jordanians typically don’t drink being Muslim, however, they do favor their Turkish or Arabian-style coffee, tea or juice and will happily offer you to sit and join them in a cup at a shop, cafe or at their home.

Situated at an apex of continents Asia , Europe and the Middle East , Jordan’s enjoy internationally influenced fare along with traditional Bedouin cuisine. Expect to enjoy Middle Eastern cuisine such as falafels stuffed into shells of pita bread, maqluba, mansaf, zaarb, shawarmas, fattet hummus, roasted nuts and kunafa.

Not your average hummus, fattet hummus is creamy and rich with the usual blend but pita is added to the mix and its topped off with rich olive oil.

The Middle East’s burritos, shawarmas are pockets of pita bread stuffed with a choice of lamb, beef, or chicken and topped off with a variety of ingredients from raw onions to tangy sumac.

Barbeque Middle Eastern style, zaarb , is a marinated meat baked with vegetables in a sand covered coal pit. The slow baked meat and vegetables is unearthed ready to be rolled into flavorful balls with your right hand (custom is to feed yourself with your right and not your left hand) and popped into your mouth.

A classic comfort food harking back to medieval Baghdad, maqluba is a chicken stew with rice, potatoes and vegetables slowly simmered over a long period of time on the low fire until its ready to be made into flavorful cakes filled with chunks of the meat and vegetables.

The most prized dish served is mansaf , a flat bread of lamb cooked in dried yogurt served on a bed of rice on top of the bread, on holidays and special occasions. Given that there isn’t much vegetation in the arid desert land, the cuisine is largely animal-based seeped in herbs and spices infusing the meat with flavor and accompanied by rice.

The Jordan Valley is considered the “food bowl” of the country where there might be more vegetables and fruits offered from the fertile soil and in the gulf of Aqaba opening into the Red Sea seafood is served.

Don’t forget dessert with the sticky sweet kunafa , a pastry layered with cheese or cream.

Safety and Security in Jordan

One of the first concerns most travelers have when considering a trip to Jordan is safety and security. Much of the Middle East is under U.S. Department of State travel advisories.

While Jordan is usually a rare exception, deemed a safe destination by the state department, in the region there’s a standard notable police presence and checkpoints throughout Jordan.

Since December 2018 the U.S. State Department elevated the country’s threat level to “exercise increased caution” to travelers enjoying the once long peaceful Middle Eastern country.

Common Countries Also Visited on Jordan Tours

There are many ways to travel to Jordan . You can focus your entire trip on Jordan or select from a variety of private, small group and group tours that also include the entirety of the Holy Land or focus on key countries, such as Israel  .

Tours to Jordan, Israel, and the Palestine Territory

Venture through the Holy Land through Israel and Jordan , on a selection of 5-day to 26-day trips, that takes travelers through the cradle of civilization and the birthplace of three of the world’s major religions Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.

Go back to biblical times with the rise of religious beliefs and their evolution through modern day. Explore cities carved into the walls of gorges and canyons to ancient cities some thriving and others archeological relics of the past and life in the arid desert then and now from Cairo to Amman to the West Bank to Jerusalem to Tel Aviv-Yafo.

Tours to Jordan, Israel, and Egypt

Return to the time of Pharaohs and Sultans traveling through Egypt, Jordan, and Israel on a selection of 7- to 22-day guided tours. Many of these trips begin exploring the pyramids of Egypt in Cairo. The groups then journey to Jordan exploring Petra, the mosaic map of the Holy Land at the Church of Saint George in Masada and other sites before crossing over to the other side of the Dead Sea into Israel.

In Israel, these travelers explore the Holy Land in the old city of Jerusalem, which is a living archaeological site, and the cosmopolitan city of Tel Aviv-Jaffa. Some tours traverse into the West Bank in the Palestinian Territory to Bethlehem.

Tours to Jordan and Egypt

Journey through the land of Pharaohs and the Valley of Kings to the land of Nabataeans, Byzantines, Franks and Sultans on a choice of 19- to 26-day guided tours of Jordan and Egypt . Explore Pyramids of the bygone Pharaohs and civilizations into antiquity to the ruins of the Roman and Ottoman empires to Jordan’s partially and unexcavated living archeological sites.

Tours to Jordan and Oman

This Middle Eastern adventure thorough Jordan and Oman takes travelers on a journey through Jordan and the other side of Saudi Arabia to Oman on a selection of 14- or 22-day guided tours. Some itineraries include Egypt. In Oman, travelers will visit the sites starting with the ancient city of Muscat before 4-Wheeling across the desert and into the Jebel Akhdar Mountains.

Here adventurers will explore the forts of Nakhal, Al Hazm, Nizwa Fort and the Jabrin Fort and sleep in luxury tents in the desert before journeying to Jordan. In Jordan the adventure takes visitors to Petra, Masada, and the country’s capital city Amman. Throughout the trip experience the hospitality of the Jordanian and the Omani people.

Something For Every Kind of Traveler

Whether you hope to sample the best of all Jordanian tourist activities or have a particular kind of travel you enjoy – Jordan has something for everyone. Adventure travelers will enjoy hiking, camping, and cycling throughout the country; luxury travelers will appreciate the resorts along the Dead Sea and world-class shopping in Aqaba; history fans will admire the ruins spread throughout the country; and foodies or wine lovers can sample some of Jordan’s excellent traditional dishes and vintages. If you can’t find at least one thing you enjoy while traveling in Jordan, you simply haven’t done enough.

Trip Reviews

This adventure exceeded my expectations. The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan offers a huge variety of different landscapes and activities for the traveller. Its histor...

An amazing experience in Jordan

A great trip with a full itinerary, a fascinating insight into Jordan. Being able to spend two days in Petra and explore the site. Eddie was helpful charming and v...

A terrific trip!

This trip is great! The varied itinerary explores all the major attractions of Jordan, its fascinating history and culture as well as the lovely landscape and, if ...

Jordan - Thoroughly Recommended!

A great experience, you get to see so much, from crusader castles to the Dead Sea and the delights of Wadi Rum. Well this comes down to two: - Petra, just amazing, ...

An excellent adventure

A great holiday with memorable sights. Petra was amazing and two days well spent. Eddie was great. Take toilet paper and imodium. You will need both. If you dr...

See all Jordan reviews

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What travellers are saying.

Full Review of Exoticca’s Jordan Tour 2022

by Maggie McKneely | Feb 10, 2023 | Jordan | 17 comments

Last Updated on April 24, 2023 by Maggie McKneely

Want to visit Jordan with a tour group but not sure which one? Have you seen Exoticca’s enticing prices but are not sure they’re worth it? Check out my review of Exoticca’s 9-day tour of Jordan (and read to the end to save $200!)

*This post contains affiliate links. That just means that if you happen to click on one of those links and end up making a purchase, I make a small commission (and you will have made my day!)

Review of Exoticca’s Jordan Tour

The last time I wrote a review about Exoticca, I said I would book another trip with them. And true to my word, I did just that. So, how did round #2 go?

If you’ve been following the blog for a while, you know that I prefer to do all of my own trip planning – booking tickets, reserving hotels, and doing trip research is almost as fun as actually traveling (I know, I’m weird). But when I went to Egypt , I decided to book a tour with an agency because I’d heard that Egypt is extremely challenging to do on your own. Exoticca had a tour with a wonderful itinerary for a shockingly affordable price and most of the reviews I saw online were positive.

My experience with Exoticca on that trip went so well that when I started planning a trip to Jordan, I decided I’d trust them once again. Currently working full-time while also in school part-time while doing 400 other things (including this blog) it’s also a major time saver to put the trip planning into someone else’s hands every now and then. So this time I went with their 9-day tour of the Hashemite Kingdom (the fancy name for Exoticca’s Jordan tour).

So am I glad I did another trip with them? OH YES.

Table of Contents

What is Exoticca?

First things first: what is Exoticca , exactly?

Exoticca is an online travel agency. They offer tour packages that include flights (for much cheaper than you can get on your own), accommodations, transfers, tours, and activities in countries all over the world. They do not themselves run tours (like Gate 1, for example), but partner with local companies in each location.

Exoticca acts as a middleman of sorts between you and the local tour agency that actually handles everything in-country. They work with a team of over 50 curators who are experts extensively familiar with each destination in order to create vacation packages that provide unforgettable and unique experiences. And because they deal directly with the local providers, they are able to keep costs low.

The Booking Process

My one complaint about my Egypt trip was Exoticca’s booking process. But in the time between writing that review and booking Exoticca’s Jordan tour, the booking process had actually changed slightly, and for the better.

When booking my Jordan trip, the process was mostly the same simple and easy process as it had been before. Once I chose my destination (Jordan) and which package I wanted, I selected which category of comfort I wanted. Exoticca offers “Charm,” “Superior,” and “Luxury.” Not all trips have all three categories; some only have two and a few only have one option. Charm is the most budget-friendly and Luxury is, well, the most luxurious. For Egypt, I did Superior because that was the cheapest option; the Exoticca’s Jordan tour has a “Charm” option, so I went with that this time.

Next, I picked the dates of our trip. Exoticca’s helpful calendar tells you the price differences between different dates, so if you’re trying to travel during the cheapest time of year, their calendar makes it easy to see when that is.

After that, Exoticca gives youthe option to add on any optional excursions, but you don’t have to make a final decision on that until 30 days before your trip. Exoticca’s Jordan tour has several optional add-ons and I didn’t finish deciding which ones I wanted until shortly before the 30-day window.

A city tour of Amman is an add-on

During the booking process, Exoticca is completely transparent about the price of the trip, so you won’t be surprised by any additional taxes on the final payment page.

The last step before paying is choosing your flights. My one complaint last time was how Exoticca handled booking flights. Before, you wouldn’t be notified about what your flights were until about a month before you were supposed to leave for your trip (STRESS for people like me who plan way in advance!). You also didn’t have the option to pick which flights you wanted, so you were stuck with whatever they booked for you.

Now, however, you get to pick your flights during the booking process! I don’t know if Exoticca saw my last review or if enough other people complained about this, but I’m very glad that they fixed this. Some flights, like direct flights, may cost extra than the base package price, but Exoticca is upfront about that and you have the option to pay for that if you want.

The final step is putting down your initial deposit. At the time of booking, you pay 60% of the trip cost and the final 40% is due 60 days before your departure date. Once you pay, you will receive an immediate email confirmation. Between booking and final payment, Exoticca sends multiple reminder emails, so there is no chance you will forget to either pay the final installment or book any optional trips you want to add on.

Types of Tours

Both my Egypt trip and my Jordan one were technically group tours. Exoticca offers a group tour option for all of their destinations. I say “technically” because, in Egypt, most of the people in my group ended up being friends of mine. And for Jordan, because my trip was the second week of December, there were only 6 people on the tour – the four members of my own family and another couple, which was basically a private tour. Exoticca’s group tour option is supposed to max out at 30 people, but I have not experienced a group that big. Maybe most people do end up in a group like that, but I’ve been very lucky so far.

However, if you are concerned about being stuck with a bunch of strangers for a week, Exoticca does offer a private tour option or a small group option for many of their trips.

The Local Tour Operators

Picking partners in the destination country is really where Exoticca shines. For Exoticca’s Jordan tour, they work with Jordan and Beyond Tours .

The trip got started as soon as we touched down in Amman, where an airport representative from the tour met us near the gate. He helped us get through customs, collect our bags, load them onto the shuttle, and then drove us to our first hotel.

The next morning, we were greeted in our hotel lobby by the tour guide who was supposed to be with us the whole week. As circumstances would have it, he was only with us for the first two days. Then he had a family emergency and had to take some time off, so he was replaced with another guide. We liked our first guide perfectly fine, but we lucked out with the replacement – Riad Zaki.

Riad has been a tour guide in Jordan for 37 years and it shows. He was extremely personable and knowledgeable, and the man seemingly knows everyone in the country. While we were in Jordan, there was a nationwide trucker protest going on that affected tour buses using the main highwy between Amman and Petra. Riad was constantly in contact with the police and other tour guides to make sure the situation impacted us as little as possible and to ensure that we never felt in danger (which we didn’t – we just felt like it was part of the adventure!).

With tour guide extraordinaire Riad

In fact, we never had to worry about anything. My dad did something to his ankle while hiking around Petra, and Riad kept a close eye on him the rest of the trip, always making sure there was an easier alternative to whatever we were doing that my dad could participate in.  Riad ensured that every transfer was taken care of, any issue we had immediately addressed, and every question was answered.

We became such good friends with Riad that on the last day, he invited us to his home in Amman for a meal with his family! This was not part of the regular tour, but a sign of how generous and kind both the Jordanian people and the tour company are.

As mentioned, Exoticca is a separate entity from Jordan and Beyond Tours, but they are proof that Exoticca does its research when choosing what local companies to partner with. If you, for some reason, don’t want to book through Exoticca (for example, you don’t need flights and are just looking for a tour in-country), you can book a variety of different tours in the region through J ordan and Beyond Tours directly.

Exoticca’s Jordan Tour Itinerary

Because Jordan is such a small country that is mostly uninhabited desert, you can see all of the highlights in 9 days. I didn’t feel like we missed out on anything important, but I also didn’t feel rushed.

We spent a full day in Petra and a full day and night in Wadi Rum. We spent time floating in the Dead Sea and visiting several Crusader and Byzantine castles that I’d never heard of. Visiting Amman’s historic sites is an optional add-on that I recommend because the Citadel is worth visiting.

We actually did all of the add-ons for Exoticca’s Jordan tour. In addition to the Amman city tour, we did Petra by Night and the Wadi Rum Stargazing experience. Neither of those are must-dos. It’s cool to see Petra lit up at night, but the show (yes, there’s actually a performance) is bizarre and not worth anyone’s time. Stargazing in the Wadi Rum is amazing because you can see so much, but it takes over an hour, which we were unprepared for, especially since it gets so cold in the desert in the winter.

I’ll post the full itinerary on the blog shortly, but as far as this review goes, I thought the length and time of Exoticca’s Jordan tour trip was perfect.

Floating in the Dead Sea

Exoticca Trip Insurance

Exoticca offers several different levels of trip insurance. The most basic, which automatically comes with each booking, guarantees a full refund if they have to cancel the trip for whatever reason (COVID, some kind of political or natural disaster in the destination country, etc). The next level allows you to cancel for any reason up to 30 days before the trip for trip credit with Exoticca. The highest level lets you cancel for a full cash refund. Every level gives you 24/7 assistance both before and during your trip.

Exoticca Quality Control

An important part of this Exoticca review is noting how the company ensures high quality while staying within budget. With such low prices, you might think that the quality of accommodations would be kind of meh. I can speak with experience that that was not the case in Jordan.

Three of the four hotels for Exoticca’s Jordan tour were phenomenal, even though we chose “Charm,” the cheapest comfort level. We stayed in a beautiful resort on the Dead Sea , a wonderful boutique hotel in downtown Petra , and slept under the stars in a Wadi Rum bubble hotel at Hasan Zawaideh Bedouin Camp . The only hotel that was questionable was our one in Amman . The food was unfortunate and it was a bit outdated, but it was clean and the staff were extremely kind and accommodating, so it was fine for a couple of nights.

On the porch of my “martian dome”

When choosing hotels for their packages, Exoticca requires that they have a minimum of 3.5 stars (out of 5) on  Tripadvisor . They also require that 65% of reviews left by customers be “excellent” or “very good.” That way you know you won’t be staying in any sketchy or completely rundown hotels.

Now that Exoticca has fixed the way they book flights, I only have one criticism. And it’s not even really a criticism, just something you should know. There’s not any ability to customize the itinerary. If there’s something you’d like to go see or do and it’s not part of the itinerary, you’re probably not going to be able to do it.

Normally, I hate not having control over the itinerary, but for this trip, the advantage of having a tour guide who knew the best things to do and places to go outweighed the ability to customize the trip, especially when I’m not nearly as knowledgable as a local. Plus, because Jordan is a small country, I really felt like we did just about everything major there is to do. Exoticca’s Jordan tour has a jam-packed itinerary!

I love the process of researching a trip and the flexibility of building my own itinerary, so if I hand that task over to somebody else, they had better do a good job. If I trust them to do it twice, that must mean they’re doing something right! And the fact that I only have one minor complaint of note for Exoticca’s Jordan tour is really saying a lot. The booking process was easy and smooth, the customer service was helpful, the local tour agency was AMAZING, and the price of the trip was a steal.

Would I book yet ANOTHER trip through Exoticca? Already have – we’re headed to Morocco later this year! Book your own trip with Exoticca today, and save $200 by using my link !

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17 Comments

Thanks for the honest review. I’ve been to Egypt on a group tour and would do it with Jordan as well. This is one to keep in mind.

I’ve always wanted to visit Jordan but I think I would be to nervous to book it all myself. I also would feel nervous to leave it all up to someone else as well but it looks like you had a great time! Lovely post!

Thank you for sharing the review. It is indeed helpful. I

Thank you so much for sharing this great review! I’m thinking of going to Jordan this year because I’m dying to see Petra and using Exotica seems like a great idea for that. Will definitely think about this. 🙂

Great post. Jordan hasn’t really been on my radar yet but I’m starting to hear more and more about it, I think a group tour is a great way to explore the area and I appreciate your helpful review of Exoticca.

I’ve always wanted to float in the Dead Sea! I’m glad to know I would be able to fit in into a short trip!

This is a great review! I have always wanted to visit Jordan but wasn’t sure how to go about it. This tour agency sounds like a great option!

Great review. I have been considering visiting Jordan and surrounding countries for some time now. I will heed your advice.

Thank you for this incredibly honest review. Jordan is one of my bucket list destinations and I will certainly consider this tour.

Jordan has been on my list for some time now but also always felt like a bit of a hassle to organise to be perfectly honest. Glad to see there are other options out there – thanks for sharing!

I’d love to visit Jordan and Exoticca seems to be the right company to book it with! Thanks for your detailed review and inspiration to finally go!

I’m not huge fan of organised tours, but this does sound like a great and easy way to explore the country!

Exoticca’s Jordan tour sounds like the perfect company when exploring this area. While I love planning, sometimes I want someone else to take the wheel. Great review!

Really interesting post. I’d love to visit Jordan and Egypt, and tour groups sound like a good option. Thanks for sharing and I’ll check out the link!

We too like to plan our own travel but the few times we booked tours it worked well. Glad to know that your trip with Exoticca to Jordon was a good experience. But I would never have a tour company book my flights. I have the same opinion about letting cruise companies book airfare. Looks like a great trip with all the add-ons.

The land is so vast I probably wouldn’t try to tour it on my own. Thanks for the review!

Going in a couple of weeks (end of Feb2024) and pleased to read such a good review. Thanks.

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I’m Maggie, a 30-something politico from Washington, DC, who always has one foot off the ground, looking for adventure. I work full-time in the Swamp, but use travel as a way to stay sane! Read on for my crazy stories from the road, and tips to help you in your own travels! Learn more about me

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The 6 Best Things to Do in Jordan on Your Once-In-a-Lifetime Adventure

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5 Experiences You Can Only Have in Jordan

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Modern cities filled with worldly citizens, mountainous regions dotted with small villages, and deserts inhabited by the nomadic Bedouin - Jordan has all this diversity and more.

With the cosmopolitan cafes of Amman , the peace of hilltop Dana and the historic treasures of Madaba, you may come to Jordan to see the ruins of   Petra , but you’ll leave having encountered so much more.

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Popular destinations in Jordan

Jordan at a glance, capital city.

Amman (population 960,000)

6.5 million

(GMT+02:00) Amman

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type B (American 3-pin) Type C (European 2-pin) Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin) Type J (Swiss 3-pin)

Learn more about Jordan

Culture and customs.

As a Muslim country, Jordan’s culture is quite conservative, although not as conservative as some other Middle Eastern countries. Western influences (particularly in Amman and other large cities) have infiltrated Jordanian society so Jordan now possesses a mix of Arabian customs amid modern ways of life. Due to immigration, Jordan now has a significant Palestinian and Iraqi population, adding to the cultural diversity of the country.

Despite the outside influences, Islamic traditions are strong in Jordan with spectacular mosques signalling the call to prayer five times a day, Ramadan being observed each year and some segregation of the sexes occurring. 

The desert-dwelling Bedouin have a distinct culture of their own, drawing on traditions that have been passed down for centuries. Living a largely nomadic lifestyle, the Bedouin rely on the herding of animals and the creation of handicrafts in the absence of a fertile environment to farm. With a strong musical heritage, traditional instruments are played and time-honored traditions are continued. 

Hospitality is a crucial element of Jordanian culture. Most visitors will be humbled by the kindness, sincerity and genuine care showed by Jordanians. Being welcomed into peoples’ homes is common, and can probably be attributed to the custom of welcoming strangers and sharing food when travelling in the unforgiving desert.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Featuring typical Middle Eastern ingredients like lamb, chickpeas, garlic and a range of aromatic herbs and spices, Jordanian cuisine is delicious.

Things to try in Jordan

Like many other Middle Eastern countries, a plate of shared breads and dips is a great way to begin a feast.

This traditional Bedouin dish of lamb and yoghurt is usually served with rice and bread. This is the national dish of Jordan, so definitely try it before you leave.

These small, sweet pastries made with honey and nuts will have you going back for more.

The coffee in Jordan is strong. Often spiced with a hint of cardamom, coffee is strongly linked to the famed Jordanian hospitality, so drink up – it would be rude not to!

Read more about the top dishes to try in Jordan

Learn more about popular Jordanian drinks

Geography and environment

Jordan is made up of a staggeringly diverse range of natural environments. From stark deserts to towering mountains, fertile wetlands, coastal reefs and urban cities, journeying through Jordan provides changing scenery and varying conditions. 

Sharing borders with Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Syria and Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Jordan mixes modern architecture with heritage-filled buildings, well-manicured streets with historic alleyways and impressive mansions with simple homes. 

Modern, developed cities like Amman and Aqaba feature unique architecture, spectacular mosques, five-star hotels and resorts. Small villages with rustic housing populate the less-built-up rural areas and Bedouin tents made of goat hair can be found in desert areas.

History and government

Early history.

The country now known as Jordan was originally inhabited by the Nabataeans thousands of years ago. Over the centuries, Jordan has been a place conquered and inhabited by many different people including the Romans, Greeks, Assyrians, Ottoman Turks, Egyptians and Mamluks (people of Kurdish origins). All these influences can still be seen today in Jordan's ancient ruins, architecture, crafts and arts. Many battles were fought in Ancient Jordan, including the Christian crusaders who clashed with Islamic Forces in Jordan during the 11th and 12th centuries. The first Muslim Dynasty began with the Umayyad Empire in 661.

Recent history

In 1950, Jordan was renamed the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and in 1951, King Abdullah I was assassinated while visiting a mosque. His eldest son became king but was removed from his duties in 1952 due to mental illness. In 1953, his teenage son Hussein Ibn Talal became king, and continued to rule for over 40 years. In the 1960s, Jordan saw many immigrants arrive and settle – mainly Palestinians escaping the conflict in their homeland.

In 1999, King Abdullah II succeeded his father King Hussein and continues to rule Jordan now. His reign has been characterised by liberal policies, economic reforms and technological advances. His wife, Queen Rania of Jordan, has a visible public profile, is active in many social causes and is regarded internationally as a highly influential woman.

Top 10 ways to experience Jordan

1. locate a lost city.

Spend a day exploring the astonishing lost city of Petra. Discover temples, tombs, a monastery and an amphitheatre in this fascinating, world-renowned archaeological site.

2. Take a dip

Dive into the Dead Sea and relax in the famous waters thought to have therapeutical properties. The high salinity makes floating effortless so it’s easy to lie back and enjoy the view. This experience is a must-do for any visitor to Jordan.

3. Kick back in a cafe

The cafes of Amman are the perfect place to get acquainted with modern Jordan. From elegant, urban cafes serving international fare to earthy, family-run cafes offering traditional food and coffee, see both sides of modern Jordan when you eat.

4. Delve into the desert

Travel across hot, desert sands and spend the night camping under the stars with Bedouin hosts. Stargazing, eating traditional food and learning about the Bedouin way of life is an authentic experience to remember.

5. Admire ancient art

The city of Madaba is known for its amazing collection of ancient mosaics. Take a stroll around the city to scout out these handcrafted pieces of the past that are scattered throughout Madaba’s churches, museums and homes.

6. View an icon

Behold the sight of legendary Mt Nebo. A revered holy site, Mt Nebo is home to the ruins of a church and monastery, and is an interesting place for believers and non-believers alike.

7. Meet Mother Nature

A hike through the changing landscapes of the Dana Nature Reserve offers wildlife encounters, quaint villages and majestic mountain views. Get back to nature and see Jordan’s natural treasures here.

8. Relax in a resort

See a different side of Jordan in the laidback resort town of Aqaba. Chill out on the beach, feast on fresh seafood, soak up the sunshine and enjoy the change of pace in this piece of coastal bliss.

9. Uncover a bit of history

Explore the fortified town and castle of Karak to gain insight into the fascinating history of this region. Walk through a network of tunnels and walkways and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

10. Discover Roman ruins

Travel to Jerash to see some of the biggest and most preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy. Baths, theatres, temples and forums feature within the colonnaded streets and still-standing city walls.

From atmospheric souqs to modern malls and designer boutiques, Jordan has a shopping experience to suit everyone. While not particularly cheap, the quality is generally excellent and the service friendly.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.   Australia   and   New Zealand   generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Jordan

1. Traditional handicrafts

Mosaics, ceramics, rugs and carpets can be found everywhere in Jordan, but the variety and quality found in Madaba is a standout.

2. Bedouin crafts

Silver jewellery and embroidered scarves make great souvenirs and can be purchased from souqs and independent vendors around Jordan.

3. Gold jewellery

Traditional souvenirs and stunning gold jewellery can be found in the souqs of downtown Amman.

Festivals and events in Jordan

Ramadan and eid.

During the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is observed by most in Jordan and is thought to be a time of spiritual rejuvenation. For this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset - refraining from eating and drinking during daylight hours. Eid marks the end of fasting with three days of feasting and celebration.

Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts

See the best of local and international performing arts with theatre, music, poetry and dance taking over the ancient Roman city of Jerash, much to the delight of locals and visitors alike.

Top places to visit in Jordan

If you think you’ve been to Rome and seen some impressive ruins, you’ll be amazed by the sights at the ancient city of Jerash. One of the biggest and most well-preserved ancient Roman cities in the world, it has a striking collection of archways and theatres, baths, public buildings and colonnaded streets.

Explore the ruins of Jerash on our 9 day Cycle Jordan: Petra & Wadi Rum tour.

This seaside town is the perfect place to kick back and relax by the hotel pool or at the beach. Located on the tip of the Red Sea, there are untouched coral reefs not far from the shore ready to be explored.

Soak up the sun on our 22 day Egypt, Jordan, Isreal & the Palestinian Territories tour , embrace the beach vibes on our 15 day Discover Egypt & Jordan tour or snorkel coral reefs on our 19 day Explore Egypt & Jordan adventure .

3. Wadi Rum

When you first enter Wadi Rum you may feel as though you’ve been transported to Mars. The red desert landscape is peppered with towering rock formations as far as the eye can see. Don’t miss an opportunity to mingle with the nomadic Bedouin people and perhaps even spend the night in one of their Desert Camps.

Visit the Wadi Rum Desert on our 9 day Jordan & Egypt Express tour or on our 8 day Explore Jordan adventure .

The ancient city of Petra was crowned one of the Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, and once you visit, it’s not hard to see why. Packed with history and culture, a visit to this UNESCO world heritage site is a must.

Admire the beauty of Petra on our 8 day Jordan Discovery tour .

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider. Tie another trip into your holiday, or see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around Jordan. The options below may be of interest:

• Tours from Amman
• Amman to Madaba
• Cairo to Madaba
• Tours to Madaba

Or maybe you're thinking about a trip to Jordan but still browsing other destinations? Check out our tours to neighbouring locations:

Further reading

Jordan travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa for Jordan?

Visas are required by all visitors entering Jordan.

Single entry visas valid for 14 days and can be obtained by most nationalities on arrival at the airport in Amman or at the Jordanian border for approximately JOD40.

It can be significantly more expensive to acquire your visa from the embassy in your home country.

If you require a stay longer than 14 days, visas obtained from the embassy in your home country will be valid for two months.

When is the best time to visit Jordan?

The weather in Jordan can get quite extreme. Overall, it tends to be hot during the day and cold at night (in desert areas, expect it to be extremely hot during the day and freezing at night). Yet during winter it can get bitterly cold, with snowfall occurring in some parts of the country.

Travelling during the summer months (June, July and August) can be challenging for those not accustomed to the heat, so visiting Jordan during spring and autumn is recommended for those who wish to escape the hotter temperatures. 

Is tipping customary in Jordan?

Tipping is up to the individual in Jordan. Hotels and up-market restaurants typically add a surcharge that is included in bills, which is usually 10%. Rounding up bills and leaving spare change is a good idea when dining in smaller restaurants and when using taxis.

What is the internet access like in Jordan?

Internet access is growing rapidly in Jordan. Internet can usually be accessed from hotels and internet cafes in major cities. Expect little to no access in small towns, villages and other rural areas.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Jordan?

Mobile phone coverage is good in Jordan’s major cities and built-up areas like Amman and Aqaba. Expect limited to no phone coverage in more isolated areas like the desert. Ensure you have global roaming activated on your phone before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Jordan?

Western-style toilets are common in modern hotels, malls and at popular tourist areas. Squat toilets are the standard throughout the rest of the country. Sometimes, you may need to pay and bring your own toilet paper when visiting public rest rooms.

What will it cost for a…?

Jordan's unit of currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

Street snack = 1-5 JOD Can of soft drink = 1 JOD Dinner at a restaurant = 10-45 JOD Embroidered shawl = 20-30 JOD

Can I drink the water in Jordan?

Drinking water from taps in Jordan can be safe, depending on where you are. It's considered safe to drink water from modern hotels that have filtered water but perhaps not so from smaller establishments and in rural areas. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Peel fruit before eating and avoid ice in drinks.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Jordan?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores in Jordan. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Jordan?

ATMs are common in Jordan’s main cities so finding one won't be a problem. Rural and remote areas typically will have less ATMs so be sure to carry enough cash for purchases when away from the city.

What public holidays are celebrated in Jordan?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 25 May: Independence Day
• 25 Jun: The End of Ramadan
• 26 Jun: The End of Ramadan
• 27 Jun: The End of Ramadan
• 31 Aug: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 1 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 2 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 3 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 4 Sep: The Feast of Sacrifice
• 21 Sep: Islamic New Year
• 30 Nov: The Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

Please note, Jordan public holidays may vary.

Is Jordan LGBTQIA+ friendly?

As a Muslim country, Jordan’s culture is quite conservative, although not as conservative as some other Middle Eastern countries. Homosexuality has been decriminalised in Jordan since 1951, and while Jordanians who identify as having an LGBTQIA+ identity will not be criminalised, many people continue to hide their sexuality or identity from their families and there is still a deep social stigma. As long as LGBTQIA+ travellers display some discretion and respect for local culture, particularly when visiting places outside of the major cities and tourist areas, they will have no problem visiting Jordan. 

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is the transport like in Jordan?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Jordan, you may find yourself travelling by 4x4.

Head out for a day of dune-bashing in a 4x4. Scale the towering desert dunes and take in the sweeping views. A fun way to explore remote parts of Jordan .

What's the accommodation like in Jordan?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When travelling with us in Jordan you may find yourself staying in a desert camp.

Be welcomed by Bedouin for a night of camping under the stars. Enjoy traditional food and music then fall asleep in the supreme silence of the desert.

What to wear in Jordan?

Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country and conservative clothing is the norm for all genders. You don't need to cover yourself from head to toe, but you should wear clothing that covers your chest, shoulders and legs from the knee up. Honouring the local dress code shows respect for the local culture and customs.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

I. Jordan – ‘I Am Jordan’ review: dancefloor don uplifts with self-empowering bangers

On their long-awaited debut, Doncaster's I. Jordan pays tribute to trans joy in electric style

“In the last couple of months I’ve learnt to use my voice more,” I. Jordan shared on Instagram last August, documenting their transition. The post marked their six month anniversary of taking T (testosterone) and how it has affected their vocals. Having grown up queer in Doncaster, Jordan’s openness about transitioning – which they have often posted about online – has served as a reminder of their commitment to uplifting and supporting fellow working-class LGBTQIA+ folk.

The house DJ and producer delivers propulsive music with a message. On their 2020 EP ‘For You’, they effortlessly meshed French touch and innovative club beats, landing a 5-star review from NME . Follow-up project ‘Watch Out!’ continued this experimental streak, upping the energy even further. Now, Jordan has returned to greet fans where they left them: on the dancefloor.

‘I Am Jordan’ is quick to spark, colouring tracks with moments of pure euphoria. Jordan describes lead single ‘Real Hot n Naughty’, featuring Scouse rapper and Sex Education star Felix Mufti, as “a real queer Northern dance anthem”. It’s a playful, hot and horny number with Mufti taking a comedic swipe at a pal’s dodgy hook-up choices: “ You’re still not over him / Girl, we’ve told you he’s a Tory ”.

Elsewhere, Jordan switches up the pace with ‘The Countdown’ (ft. DJ TAAHLIAH) with a quick-fire beat drop. Here, the album revs up, cleanly transitioning from uptempo BPMs to twinkly production flourishes that sound like they’ve poured out of an old-school Nokia 3320. With each song, ‘I Am Jordan’ feels like a reintroduction of sorts – an individual catalogue of club music, queer curiosity and expression.

‘People Want Nice Things’ emerges as a soaring tune you can imagine pummelling through a sweaty, overcrowded east London queer club. The song is a love letter to nightlife, and to finding pleasure and liberation in parties, people and desire. Elsewhere, ‘Round n Round’ works as a tribute to the sprawling sounds of the North, a slinky groove that pinballs between stuttering beats and sirens.

‘I Am Jordan’ is a portrait of this artist’s personal growth, with tracks that could shine on any mood-boosting playlist. Ultimately, Jordan’s innovative and uplifting debut gifts us a question: could this be what trans euphoria sounds like?

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• Release date: May 10
• Record label: Ninja Tune
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• Childish Gambino Announces 2025 Australia & New Zealand Tour

This will be Childish Gambino’s first visit Down Under since 2019

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Childish Gambino has announced a tour of Australia and New Zealand, on the same day as the surprise release of his new album Atavista .

Donald Glover will bring his musical project to Auckland, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth in January and February of next year, accompanied by special guest Amaarae.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on Monday, May 20th at staggered times, while there will also be several pre-sales, also at staggered times (see full details below). This will be Childish Gambino’s first visit Down Under since 2019.

The tour announcements comes after the unexpected release of Atavista , which features reimagined versions of tracks from Childish Gambino’s previous album, 3.15.20 , which reached #11 on the ARIA Albums Chart. Glover’s second studio album as Childish Gambino, Because the Internet , became certified Gold in Australia.

In addition to his album drop, Childish Gambino also dropped an official music video for “Little Foot Big Foot”, directed by Hiro Murai, which you can watch below.

Childish Gambino 2025 Australia & New Zealand Tour

With special guest Amaarae

Presented by Frontier Touring & AEG Presents

American Express pre-sale begins Thursday, May 16th (Sydney & Brisbane 9am local time; Perth 10am local time; Melbourne 12pm local time; Auckland 12pm local time)

Artist pre-sale begins Thursday, May 16th (Sydney & Brisbane 11am local time; Perth 1pm local time; Melbourne 3pm local time; Auckland 2pm local time)

Frontier Member pre-sale begins Friday, May 17th (Sydney & Brisbane 9am local time; Perth 10am local time; Melbourne 12pm local time; Auckland 12pm local time)

General sale begins Monday, May 20th (Sydney & Brisbane 11am local time; Perth 11am local time; Melbourne 1pm local time; Auckland 2pm local time)

Tickets available via ticketmaster.co.nz or ticketek.com.au

All shows licensed all ages

Tuesday, January 28th Spark Arena, Auckland, NZ

Saturday, February 1st Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane, QLD

Tuesday, February 4th Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney, NSW

Friday, February 7th Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, VIC

Tuesday, February 11th RAC Arena, Perth, WA

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