All About Jordan

Required clothing

General Rule:

Respectful Attire: Jordan is a Muslim country, and dressing modestly is a sign of respect for the local culture. Aim for clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Seasonal Considerations:

Summer (May-September): Lightweight, breathable clothing is key. Opt for:

• Tops: Loose-fitting cotton t-shirts, linen shirts, or breathable hiking tops.
• Bottoms: Long, lightweight cotton pants, linen trousers, or convertible hiking pants.
• Headwear: A hat with a brim to protect yourself from the sun.
• Footwear: Comfortable sandals or hiking shoes.

Spring & Autumn (April & October-November): The weather can be variable, so pack layers. Consider:

• Tops: T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and a light jacket or sweater.
• Bottoms: Long pants or lightweight skirts.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or boots.

Winter (December-March): Temperatures can drop, especially at night. Pack:

• Tops: Thermal wear, long-sleeved shirts, and a warm jacket.
• Bottoms: Warm pants or leggings.
• Footwear: Sturdy shoes or boots that can handle cooler weather.

Additional Tips:

Swimwear: If you plan on visiting the Dead Sea or other water bodies, pack a modest swimsuit.

Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential year-round.

Scarf: A scarf can be useful for covering your head when entering religious sites or for protection from dust.

Long sleeves and pants: These are helpful for protecting yourself from the sun and mosquitos, especially in desert areas.

Jordan boasts a fascinating climate tapestry, influenced by its geographical location and unique topography. Understanding these variations will enhance your trip planning:

The Köppen-Geiger Classification:

Jordan falls under the Köppen-Geiger climate classification system, with two primary categories:

• BSh (Hot Semi-arid Climate): Covers most of Jordan. This classification signifies hot summers with average temperatures exceeding 18°C (64°F) and dry conditions. Rainfall is scarce and concentrated in the winter months.
• BWh (Hot Arid Desert Climate): Dominates the eastern and southern regions. This classification represents a hot, arid desert with average annual temperatures above 18°C (64°F) and very little rainfall throughout the year.

Seasonal Variations:

• Summer (May-September): Expect hot and dry weather with average highs reaching 30°C (86°F) or even exceeding 35°C (95°F) in some areas. Sunshine is abundant, making it an ideal time for enjoying water activities like swimming in the Dead Sea or exploring desert landscapes at dawn or dusk to avoid the peak heat.
• Spring & Autumn (April & October-November): These shoulder seasons offer a welcome respite from the summer heat. Temperatures become more pleasant, ranging from the mid-20s°C (70s°F) to the low 30s°C (low 80s°F). Spring experiences occasional showers, while autumn skies tend to be clear and sunny.
• Winter (December-March): Temperatures drop significantly, with average highs hovering around 15°C (59°F). Some nights can get chilly, especially in desert areas, where frost is not uncommon. Rainfall tends to be more frequent during this season, particularly in the northern highlands.

Regional Variations:

• The Rift Valley: The Dead Sea, located in the Jordan Rift Valley, experiences the hottest temperatures year-round due to its low elevation.
• The Highlands: Higher-altitude areas like the Jordanian Plateau enjoy cooler summers and slightly colder winters compared to the lowlands.
• The Desert: The eastern and southern deserts are characterized by extreme dryness and significant temperature fluctuations. Daytime temperatures can soar, while nights can be surprisingly chilly.

By understanding these diverse weather patterns, you can plan your Jordanian adventure with confidence, choosing the ideal season for your desired activities and packing accordingly.

Jordan’s Tipping Culture: A Comprehensive Guide for Respectful Travelers

Understanding tipping etiquette in Jordan goes beyond simply leaving a few extra dinars. It’s a way to connect with the vibrant service industry and demonstrate your appreciation for the hospitality you receive. Here’s a deeper dive into tipping practices for various Jordanian establishments:

Spas:

Show Direct Gratitude: A tip of 5-10 Jordanian Dinars (JD) directly to the therapist who performed your treatment is a thoughtful and personal way to acknowledge their service. This allows them to directly benefit from your appreciation.

Taxi driver:

Rounding Up with a Smile: Consider rounding up the fare to the nearest dinar and expressing your thanks for a safe and comfortable journey. This small gesture can brighten the driver’s day and create a positive interaction.

Extra for Exceptional Service: If the driver goes above and beyond, perhaps by helping you navigate a bustling city center or offering local recommendations, a few extra dinars show your gratitude for their assistance.

Restaurants:

Rewarding Good Service: While tipping isn’t always explicitly included in the bill, it’s a welcome gesture. A customary tip for good service ranges from 5-10% of the bill. Remember, wages in the hospitality industry can be lower, so your tip makes a real difference.

Recognizing the Bartender: Don’t forget the bartender who creates your refreshing cocktails or expertly recommends local wines! A small percentage of your bill or even a JD per drink shows your appreciation for their expertise and service.

Hotels:

Acknowledging Service with Courtesy: Hotel staff are familiar with tipping customs and appreciate recognition for their efforts. Here’s a breakdown for common scenarios:

• Porters: Tipping 1-2 JD per bag for handling your luggage is a standard courtesy. A friendly “thank you” along with the tip goes a long way.

• Housekeeping: Leaving at least 2 JD per night for the housekeeping staff acknowledges the daily effort they put into keeping your room clean and comfortable. A small note expressing your appreciation can also be a thoughtful touch.

• Room Service: Tipping 2-5 JD for room service acknowledges the extra effort involved in delivering your meal to your room. If the service was particularly prompt or attentive, consider a slightly higher tip.

• Concierge: The complexity of the concierge’s assistance determines the appropriate tip. For minor tasks, 5 JD might suffice, while more involved assistance like securing hard-to-find reservations or planning day trips could warrant 20 JD. Ultimately, use your discretion based on the level of service received and the complexity of their tasks.

Hairdresser:

Tipping at Your Discretion with Appreciation: Unlike some other service industries, there isn’t a set tipping expectation for hairdressers or stylists. Some clients round up the bill, while others add 10-20%, and some don’t tip at all. Let the quality of service and your overall experience guide your decision. Expressing your satisfaction verbally can be as valuable as a generous tip. A “thank you” and a compliment on their skills go a long way in showing your appreciation for a fantastic haircut or styling session.

Beyond the Guidelines:

• Small Change is King: Carry small denominations of Jordanian dinars for convenient tipping. Exchanging larger bills can be inconvenient for service providers.

• A Smile and Sincerity: While tipping is a way to show appreciation, a genuine smile and a sincere “thank you” are equally important. They demonstrate your appreciation for Jordanian hospitality and cultural exchange.

• Local Customs: If unsure about tipping etiquette in a specific situation, it’s always best to observe how other locals handle it. This can give you valuable clues about appropriate tipping practices

OTHER DETAILS 

TIME ZONE

Jordan is two hours ahead of GMT during winter, and three hours ahead during summer. So do not forget to set your watch according to the local time while you travel to Jordan.

ELECTRICITY

The electrical current is based on 220 AC volts, 50 cycles, and requires rounded two-prong wall plugs. Visitors from the US will need a transformer while travelling to Jordan; most hotels will provide one.

VISAS

All foreign nationals planning to travel to Jordan require tourist visas. A visa can also be obtained at Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport and most land and sea borders (except Allenby Bridge) for most nationalities.

Visas can be arranged free of charge for visitors staying in Jordan for a minimum of two nights, provided you send us full passport details prior to arrival.

DEPARTURE TAX

A departure tax of currently JD 10 per person (around US$ 15) is paid at all borders when departing Jordan, and it is currently included with your flight ticket, but is payable if you cross over land borders. If you are leaving Jordan through a land border it is advisable to keep a JD 5 bill with you at the end of your tour to pay the departure tax.

HEALTH

No vaccinations are needed for visitors travelling to Jordan. During your stay, it is preferable to drink only bottled water, although it is alright to shower and brush your teeth using tap water.

PHOTOGRAPHY

If you are planning to take photographs of locals during your travels in Jordan, always ask their permission first. Your guide can assist you in this. Do not take photographs of military installations or airports. It is advisable to carry your camera in a dust-proof bag

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Jordan, the land of ancient wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and rich culture.

Where history whispers: Jordan boasts a remarkable history, with remnants of empires like the Nabataeans (Petra’s architects) and Romans scattered throughout the country. Explore Jerash, a remarkably preserved Roman city, or delve into the mysteries of ancient Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved from rose-red sandstone cliffs.

A land of diverse landscapes: From the fertile Jordan Valley to the dramatic desert expanses of Wadi Rum, Jordan offers a stunning variety of scenery. Hike through Wadi Mujib, a dramatic gorge nicknamed “the Grand Canyon of Jordan,” or float in the Dead Sea, the Earth’s lowest point, known for its therapeutic mud baths.

Warm hospitality and rich culture: Jordanians are renowned for their warm hospitality and welcoming spirit. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture by sipping aromatic Arabic coffee with locals, exploring bustling souqs (markets), or enjoying a traditional Jordanian meal.

Adventure awaits: Jordan is a paradise for adventure seekers. Trek the challenging trails of Dana Biosphere Reserve, a haven for diverse wildlife, or camp under the vast desert sky in Wadi Rum. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a nature enthusiast, Jordan has an adventure waiting for you.

Ready to explore Jordan’s hidden gems and create lasting memories? Visit our Adventure Tours page to discover the perfect itinerary for your unforgettable Jordanian escape!