Welcome to Jordan, a land where ancient history meets stunning desert landscapes and vibrant culture. Navigating this captivating destination is best done with an understanding of its distinct seasons, which significantly influence both your experience and your budget.
Key takeaways for Jordan: quick snapshot of costs, timing, and standout experiences.
Currency name
Jordanian dinar
Currency code
JOD
Currency symbol
ا.د
Phone code
+962
Population
11,734,000
Region
Asia
Capital
Amman
Coordinates
31.0000, 36.0000Spring offers nearly perfect weather with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for exploring Petra, Wadi Rum, and other archaeological sites. Demand is at its peak, leading to elevated prices for accommodation, flights, and tours. Booking well in advance is essential to secure preferred options. Dining, local transport, and everyday expenses remain standard.
Accommodation
Shared room, per person per night in popular cities like Amman or Petra.
High season
JOD 10+ • per night
Dining out
A filling meal like falafel, shawarma, or manakish from a street vendor.
High season
JOD 2+ • per meal
Transport
A short ride within major cities like Amman.
High season
JOD 0.5+ • per ride
Things to do
One-day ticket for non-Jordanian visitors (higher for day-trippers not staying overnight).
High season
JOD 50+ • per person
Accommodation
Shared room, per person per night in popular cities like Amman or Petra.
Hostel dorm bed
Shared room, per person per night in popular cities like Amman or Petra.
Budget hotel room
Private room with basic amenities in a 2-3 star hotel.
Mid-range hotel room
Comfortable 3-4 star hotel room, often with good location and services.
Luxury hotel room
High-end 5-star accommodation, often with premium amenities and services.
Wadi Rum desert camp
Per person, including dinner and breakfast in a Bedouin-style camp.
Dining out
A filling meal like falafel, shawarma, or manakish from a street vendor.
Local street food meal
A filling meal like falafel, shawarma, or manakish from a street vendor.
Budget restaurant meal
Simple local dishes in a casual restaurant, per person.
Mid-range restaurant meal
A good quality sit-down meal, including drinks, per person.
Fine dining meal
Upscale dining experience, including appetizers, main course, and drinks, per person.
Coffee or tea
Standard coffee or tea from a local cafe.
Transport
A short ride within major cities like Amman.
Local city bus fare
A short ride within major cities like Amman.
Taxi ride (short distance)
A typical taxi fare for a short journey within a city.
Intercity bus ticket
One-way ticket on a public bus between major cities (e.g., Amman to Petra/Aqaba).
Private taxi with driver
Daily rate for a private car and driver for touring purposes (e.g., Dead Sea, Jerash).
Economy rental car
Daily rental rate for a compact car, excluding fuel and insurance.
Things to do
One-day ticket for non-Jordanian visitors (higher for day-trippers not staying overnight).
Petra entrance fee
One-day ticket for non-Jordanian visitors (higher for day-trippers not staying overnight).
Wadi Rum jeep tour
Approx. 2-hour private jeep tour of key sights, price per vehicle (can be shared).
Dead Sea access
Entry to a public beach or a day pass to a resort beach (resorts are higher end).
Jerash entrance fee
One-day ticket for access to the Roman ruins.
Diving or snorkeling trip
Half-day boat trip in Aqaba, including equipment rental.
Prices are indicative and may change based on availability, demand, and inclusions.
Welcome to Jordan, a land where ancient history meets stunning desert landscapes and vibrant culture. Navigating this captivating destination is best done with an understanding of its distinct seasons, which significantly influence both your experience and your budget.
Jordan truly shines during its shoulder seasons: spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October, November). These months offer pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring ancient sites like Petra and the breathtaking landscapes of Wadi Rum. Naturally, this also makes them the high season, when demand for accommodation and popular tours is at its peak, leading to higher prices across the board.
Conversely, the scorching summer months of July and August represent the low season, with fewer visitors due to extreme heat. While you might find some relief in accommodation prices, activities will be challenging. Winters, from December to February, are cool and can be wet, especially in the north, but offer a unique, less crowded experience, often with more budget-friendly options for those willing to brave the chill.
Planning your trip around these seasonal shifts is crucial for managing your budget. Booking accommodation and tours well in advance for high season is recommended, while travelers seeking deals might find them during the quieter, more extreme weather periods.
While specific structured pricing data isn't available, general travel knowledge indicates that Jordan offers a range of options for different budgets. For accommodation, budget-conscious travelers can find hostels or guesthouses starting from 15-30 JOD per night, while mid-range hotels typically cost between 50-100 JOD. Luxury options will, of course, be significantly higher.
Dining in Jordan can be quite affordable and delicious. Street food like falafel and shawarma can cost as little as 1-3 JOD per meal, providing an authentic and budget-friendly experience. A meal at a local restaurant might range from 5-15 JOD, while more upscale dining will naturally be higher. Don't miss the chance to try traditional dishes like mansaf.
Explore the awe-inspiring Nabataean city carved into rose-red cliffs. Wander through the Siq, marvel at the Treasury, and hike to the Monastery for panoramic views. Best visited in spring or autumn (March-May, Sept-Nov) to avoid extreme heat or cold, allowing for comfortable exploration of this vast UNESCO site. While entry can be costly, consider a Jordan Pass for savings if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
Immerse yourself in the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, known as the Valley of the Moon. Enjoy a jeep safari, camel ride, and spend a night under the stars in a traditional Bedouin camp. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for daytime activities and clear, cool nights. Budget tip: shared jeep tours and Bedouin camps offer a more affordable and authentic experience.
Dive into the vibrant street food and traditional eateries of Amman. Sample local specialties like mansaf, falafel, and kunafa. Explore bustling markets and try fresh juices. This urban experience is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn provide comfortable weather for walking tours. Dining at local, non-touristy restaurants is very budget-friendly, offering delicious meals for a fraction of resort prices.
Experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Slather on mineral-rich mud for a natural spa treatment. The Dead Sea is accessible year-round, though summer can be extremely hot. Spring and autumn offer a pleasant climate for sunbathing and relaxation by the water. While resorts can be pricey, public beaches provide a cheaper alternative to enjoy this natural wonder.
For getting around cities like Amman, skip street taxis and use Careem. It provides fixed prices, GPS tracking, and avoids negotiation, often leading to a fairer deal than flagging down a cab.
Tipping, or "baksheesh," is customary in Jordan for a wide range of services, including guides, drivers, hotel staff, and even restroom attendants. A small amount is always appreciated and often expected. Carry small denominations of Jordanian Dinars for this purpose.
While tourist areas are more lenient, dressing conservatively, particularly outside of resort zones or when visiting religious sites, shows respect for local customs. For women, covering shoulders and knees is advisable. Men should also avoid overly revealing clothing.
Local transportation is generally inexpensive. Shared taxis or 'serviis' for short distances within cities are very cheap, often less than 1 JOD. Private taxis will cost more, and long-distance bus travel between major cities is an economical way to get around, typically costing 5-10 JOD depending on the route. Overall, a daily budget of 30-70 JOD can cover basic expenses for a comfortable trip, excluding major tour costs.
Jordan's rich history and natural wonders offer unforgettable cultural experiences. The most iconic, Petra, typically has an entrance fee of around 50-90 JOD for a one-day pass, depending on whether you stay overnight in Jordan. Planning your visit early in the morning helps avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons.
A visit to Wadi Rum offers a magical Bedouin desert experience. Overnight stays in Bedouin camps range from 30-100 JOD per person, often including dinner, breakfast, and a jeep tour. The price varies significantly based on the camp's amenities and the length of the tour. These experiences are best booked with reputable local operators.
The therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea are another must-do. Access can be via public beaches (with minimal fees) or through resorts, which typically offer day passes costing 20-40 JOD for amenities like changing rooms, showers, and pools. When engaging with local traditions, always dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and be prepared to respectfully bargain in markets. Tipping (baksheesh) is also a customary practice for good service.
Jordan's prime travel periods are during the mild and pleasant spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October, November). These high seasons offer ideal weather for exploring world-famous sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, making outdoor activities and historical tours incredibly comfortable. Expect more crowds and potentially higher prices for flights and popular accommodations during these months.
Conversely, summer (June, July, August) brings extreme heat, particularly in desert areas, while winter (December, January, February) is cooler with occasional rain. These low seasons see fewer tourists, allowing for a more intimate experience at popular attractions. While some activities might be weather-dependent, traveling during these times often translates to lower costs for accommodation and tours, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers.
While specific pricing data isn't available, general travel knowledge indicates Jordan can cater to various budgets. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, especially in cities like Amman and Aqaba, to mid-range hotels and luxurious resorts. Petra offers options from basic camps to high-end hotels, with prices fluctuating based on proximity to the site and the season.
Dining costs are reasonable, particularly if you embrace local cuisine. Street food and traditional restaurants offer delicious and affordable meals, while tourist-oriented restaurants will naturally be pricier. Local transportation, such as shared taxis (servees) and local buses, is very economical, though private taxis and tour transfers will cost more. Entrance fees to major attractions like Petra and Wadi Rum are significant but essential to the experience.
Daily expenses for water, snacks, and small souvenirs are manageable. Savvy travellers can save money by planning meals, utilizing public transport where possible, and booking accommodations well in advance, especially during the peak spring and autumn months when demand is highest.
Step back in time at Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. Walk along the Oval Forum, explore magnificent temples, and imagine life in ancient times without the intense crowds of Petra. Easily accessible as a day trip from Amman, especially pleasant during the mild seasons of spring and autumn. Entry fees are significantly lower than Petra, offering great value for history buffs on a budget.
Explore Jordan's largest nature reserve, offering breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for hiking. Discover ancient ruins and traditional villages while supporting local communities through ecotourism initiatives. Ideal for spring and autumn when the weather is perfect for trekking and wildlife spotting. Accommodation ranges from basic campsites to ecolodges, providing options for different budgets and a truly immersive nature experience.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the iconic 'Rose City'. To make the most of your visit and avoid the heat, especially during low season summers, aim for early mornings. Consider the Jordan Pass for better value, combining your entry fee with other attractions and visa costs. High seasons (spring/autumn) offer ideal weather for extensive exploration.
Discover the breathtaking Martian landscape of Wadi Rum, enjoying a jeep safari and a traditional Bedouin overnight camp. The clear skies offer unparalleled stargazing opportunities year-round. While summer days are hot, evenings are cooler, making a desert stay magical. In cooler winter months, pack layers for chilly desert nights.
Indulge in Jordan's rich culinary scene by seeking out local eateries and street food. Enjoy budget-friendly yet delicious staples like falafel, hummus, and mansaf from neighborhood restaurants rather than tourist traps. This is a fantastic way to immerse in the culture and taste local life, regardless of the season.
Experience the unique sensation of effortlessly floating in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea. This therapeutic experience is enjoyable throughout the year, though summer can be intensely hot, making spring and autumn more comfortable. Many resorts offer day passes if you're not staying overnight, providing access to facilities.
Journey back in time by exploring the remarkably preserved Roman ruins of Jerash, just an hour north of Amman. This archaeological gem offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient history and is often less crowded than Petra, making for an excellent day trip. Spring and autumn provide the best walking weather, while winter visits can be crisp and clear.
Although scorching hot, July and August are Jordan's low season. This means significantly lower prices for accommodation and tours, especially outside Petra and Wadi Rum. If you can handle the heat and plan activities for early mornings or late afternoons, it's a great way to save money and avoid crowds.
When visiting sites like Petra or Wadi Rum, only hire guides recommended by your hotel or the official visitor centre. Unsolicited guides can sometimes overcharge or provide misleading information. Verify credentials to ensure a legitimate and enriching experience.
If you plan to visit Petra and other major archaeological sites and will be staying at least three nights, purchase the Jordan Pass online before you arrive. It includes your visa fee and entry to over 40 attractions, often saving you a significant amount compared to paying for each separately.
Tipping is customary for various services in Jordan, including restaurant staff, drivers, and tour guides. Always carry small Jordanian Dinar notes (1, 5, 10 JD) for tips, market purchases, and smaller transactions, as change can sometimes be scarce.
While Jordan is generally welcoming, showing respect for local customs by dressing modestly (shoulders and knees covered) is appreciated, particularly when visiting mosques, churches, or rural areas. This applies to both men and women.
Purchase the Jordan Pass before arriving to waive visa fees (for stays of 3 nights or more) and gain entry to over 40 attractions, including Petra. It's often cheaper than paying separately and simplifies entry.
When taking taxis, always agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey to avoid misunderstandings, especially outside major cities. In Amman, ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber offer transparent pricing.
Jordan's climate, especially in summer, requires constant hydration, so drink plenty of bottled water. When sampling delicious street food, choose stalls with high turnover and visible cooking processes to ensure freshness and safety.
