Travel Agencies & Tour Operators in Jordan

Jordan Travel Guide: Petra, Dead Sea & Ancient History #

Jordan (Arabic: الأردنّ, al-Urdunn) is an Arab kingdom in the Middle East, at the crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe. It has been repeatedly called an “oasis of stability” in the Middle East. Since the 1940s, millions have immigrated to Jordan for a better life. With an extensive collection of tourist attractions, ranging from biblical sites to seaside sites, there is a lot to see and do in Jordan. Professional tour operators specializing in Jordan help travelers discover this magnificent nation’s ancient wonders, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.

Why Choose Jordan for Your Next Adventure #

Jordan combines ancient historical sites, stunning desert landscapes, the Dead Sea, biblical history, warm hospitality, and safe travel. Whether seeking Petra’s magnificent rock-cut city, floating in the Dead Sea, exploring Wadi Rum’s desert beauty, visiting ancient Roman ruins, or experiencing Bedouin culture, experienced tour operators provide expert guidance across this fascinating Middle Eastern kingdom.

Geography & Natural Wonders #

Jordan’s geography encompasses diverse landscapes from desert to sea:

Geographic Characteristics:

• Area: 89,342 km² (34,495 sq mi)
• Highest point: Jabal Umm ad Dami at 1,854m (6,083 ft)
• Lowest point: Dead Sea at 427m below sea level
• Coastline: Red Sea (Gulf of Aqaba)

Major Geographic Regions:

• Northern Jordan: Most developed, capital region
• King’s Highway: Historic route, Dead Sea, Madaba
• Southern Desert: Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba
• Eastern Desert: Desert castles, remote areas

Natural Landmarks:

• Dead Sea: Lowest point on earth, most saline sea
• Petra: Ancient rock-cut city, one of New 7 Wonders
• Wadi Rum: Stunning desert, granite cliffs
• Dana Nature Reserve: Beautiful nature reserve
• Azraq Wetland: Oasis in desert
• Red Sea: Aqaba, diving and beaches

Popular Destinations & Attractions #

Amman:

• Capital and largest city
• Economic, political, cultural center
• Citadel, Roman Theater
• Modern city, excellent dining
• Gateway to rest of Jordan

Petra:

• Ancient rock-cut city, UNESCO World Heritage
• One of New 7 Wonders of the World
• Treasury (Al-Khazneh), Monastery
• Nabataean architecture
• Most famous attraction in Jordan

Wadi Rum:

• Stunning desert landscape
• Granite cliffs, desert sand
• Bedouin culture
• Desert camping, jeep tours
• “Valley of the Moon”

Dead Sea:

• Lowest point on earth (427m below sea level)
• Most saline sea, float effortlessly
• Health and wellness benefits
• Resorts and spas
• Unique natural phenomenon

Aqaba:

• Red Sea port city
• Beautiful beaches, diving
• Gateway to Red Sea
• Resorts, water activities
• Access to Sinai and Red Sea

Jerash:

• One of largest Roman ruins in Middle East
• Well-preserved ancient city
• Columns, theaters, temples
• Easy day trip from Amman

Madaba:

• Known for mosaic map of Holy Land
• Byzantine churches
• “City of Mosaics”
• Biblical significance

Regions of Jordan #

Northern Jordan #

The most developed and populated area of Jordan where the capital city of Amman is located. Features the capital, modern infrastructure, and access to many attractions.

King’s Highway #

The region in which during ancient times the important trade route “The King’s Highway” passed which connected between Egypt and Aram-Naharaim. Prominent tourist attractions located in this region nowadays include the Jordanian part of the Dead Sea, and the ancient city of Madaba which became a prominent tourist attraction following the discovery of an ancient large mosaic floor (known as the “Madaba Map”) in an ancient Byzantine church which depicts the Holy Land in the 6th century.

Southern Desert #

Contains, among other things, three of the most prominent tourist attractions in Jordan - Petra, Wadi Rum and Aqaba. Features the most famous attractions and stunning desert landscapes.

Eastern Desert #

Prominent tourist attractions in this region include five different forts scattered throughout the Eastern Desert which were once used by the Caliphs. Features desert castles and remote desert areas.

Adventure Activities & Experiences #

Tour operators offer extraordinary activities across Jordan’s diverse landscapes:

Ancient Sites & Archaeology #

• Petra: Magnificent rock-cut city, Treasury, Monastery
• Jerash: Roman ruins, well-preserved ancient city
• Umm Qais: Roman-era settlement, ancient Gadara
• Ajloun Castle: 12th-century castle ruins
• Desert castles: Umayyad period castles
• Kerak Castle: Crusader castle

Desert Experiences #

• Wadi Rum: Desert jeep tours, camping
• Bedouin culture: Traditional desert experiences
• Desert camping: Under the stars
• Camel trekking: Traditional desert transport
• Desert castles: Explore ancient desert forts

Dead Sea Experiences #

• Dead Sea floating: Unique floating experience
• Dead Sea resorts: Health and wellness
• Mud treatments: Therapeutic mud
• Spa experiences: Wellness and relaxation

Nature & Wildlife #

• Dana Nature Reserve: Hiking, nature, traditional village
• Azraq Wetland: Oasis, bird watching
• Wadi Rum: Desert landscapes, rock formations
• Hiking: Various trails and nature areas

Water Activities #

• Red Sea diving: Aqaba, coral reefs
• Snorkeling: Marine life, clear waters
• Beach activities: Aqaba beaches
• Water sports: Various activities

Cultural Experiences #

• Bedouin culture: Traditional desert culture
• Local markets: Shopping, crafts
• Traditional cuisine: Authentic Jordanian food
• Religious sites: Biblical and historical sites

Cultural Heritage & History #

Jordan’s culture reflects ancient civilizations and Arab heritage:

Ancient History #

Early Kingdoms:

• Ammon, Edom, Moab: Ancient kingdoms
• Part of Persian Empire
• Part of Roman Empire
• Nabataean Kingdom: Petra

Classical Period:

• Roman rule, well-preserved ruins
• Byzantine period, Christian sites
• Islamic conquest (7th century)

Medieval Period #

Islamic Period:

• Umayyad Caliphate: Desert castles
• Various Islamic dynasties
• Ottoman rule (1516-1918)

Modern Era #

British Mandate:

• Great Arab Revolt (1916)
• British Mandate period
• Emirate of Transjordan established

Independence:

• Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan (1946)
• Modern challenges and progress
• Stability in region

Cultural Identity #

Arab Heritage:

• Arabic language and culture
• Islamic traditions
• Bedouin culture
• Warm hospitality

Religious Diversity:

• Majority: Sunni Islam
• Christian minority
• Religious tolerance

Travel Tips for Jordan #

Language #

Arabic (Official):

• Arabic throughout country
• English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
• Most Jordanians speak some English
• Tour operators provide multilingual guides

Climate & Best Times to Visit #

Arid to Semi-Arid Climate:

• Hot, dry summers: 30-40°C (86-104°F)
• Mild winters: 10-20°C (50-68°F)
• Very little rainfall
• Desert climate in most areas

Best Times:

• Spring (March-May): Pleasant temperatures, best weather
• Autumn (September-November): Pleasant temperatures
• Summer (June-August): Very hot, but still accessible
• Winter (December-February): Mild, can be cold in desert

Safety Considerations #

Very safe for tourists:

• “Oasis of stability” in Middle East
• Low crime rates
• Safe for solo travelers
• Well-developed tourist infrastructure
• Tourist police present

Health:

• No required vaccinations (check current requirements)
• Tap water generally safe in cities
• Sun protection essential
• Travel insurance recommended

Currency & Money #

Jordanian Dinar (JOD):

• Relatively stable currency
• Credit cards accepted in tourist areas
• ATMs available
• US dollars sometimes accepted

Tipping:

• Restaurants: 10% customary
• Tour guides: 10-15% if satisfied
• Hotels: Small tips for service

Transportation #

Domestic Flights:

• Limited domestic flights
• Mainly Amman to Aqaba
• Not primary mode of transport

Buses:

• Good network connecting cities
• JETT buses: Tourist-friendly
• Local buses: Affordable
• Good for budget travel

Rental Cars:

• Available in cities
• Drive on right side
• International driving permit recommended
• Good roads, easy to navigate

Taxis:

• Available throughout
• Can be expensive
• Negotiate fares
• Private drivers available

Planning Your Jordanian Adventure #

Choosing the Right Tour Operator #

Select experienced Jordan tour operators who offer:

• Petra tour expertise and access
• Dead Sea experience arrangements
• Wadi Rum desert tour coordination
• Transportation logistics
• Language barriers overcome with multilingual guides
• Cultural immersion experiences
• Emergency support throughout country
• Seasonal activity planning
• Accommodation selection (hotels, desert camps)
• Local insights and hidden gems

Popular Jordan Tours & Itineraries #

Classic Jordan #

• Petra and Dead Sea: 3-5 days
• Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea: 5-7 days
• Complete Jordan: All major sites (7-10 days)
• Biblical Jordan: Religious and historical sites

Historical Tours #

• Petra: Full day or multi-day exploration
• Jerash and Umm Qais: Roman ruins
• Desert castles: Umayyad period castles
• Ancient sites: Various archaeological sites

Desert Experiences #

• Wadi Rum: Desert jeep tours, camping
• Bedouin experiences: Traditional culture
• Desert camping: Overnight under stars
• Camel trekking: Traditional desert transport

Dead Sea & Wellness #

• Dead Sea resorts: Health and wellness
• Spa experiences: Therapeutic treatments
• Floating experience: Unique Dead Sea experience

Nature & Adventure #

• Dana Nature Reserve: Hiking, nature
• Wadi Rum: Desert landscapes, activities
• Red Sea: Aqaba, diving, beaches

Multi-Country Tours #

• Jordan and Israel: Combine with Holy Land
• Jordan and Egypt: Combine with Sinai
• Jordan, Israel, and Palestine: Complete Holy Land

Seasonal Tours #

• Spring (March-May): Best weather, pleasant temperatures
• Autumn (September-November): Pleasant temperatures
• Summer (June-August): Very hot but accessible
• Winter (December-February): Mild, fewer crowds

Jordanian Cuisine & Dining #

Jordan offers delicious Middle Eastern cuisine:

Signature Dishes #

Traditional Favorites:

• Mansaf: National dish, lamb with yogurt sauce
• Maqluba: Upside-down rice and meat dish
• Musakhan: Chicken with sumac and onions
• Kunafa: Sweet pastry dessert
• Falafel: Fried chickpea fritters
• Hummus: Chickpea dip

Street Food:

• Shawarma: Spit-roasted meat
• Falafel: Popular street food
• Manakish: Flatbread with toppings

Desserts:

• Kunafa: Sweet pastry with cheese
• Baklava: Sweet pastry
• Halva: Sweet confection

Beverages #

Traditional:

• Tea: Very popular, often with mint
• Coffee: Arabic coffee, Turkish style
• Fresh juices: Excellent variety

Alcoholic:

• Beer: Limited availability
• Wine: Limited local production
• Arak: Anise-flavored spirit
• Alcohol: Available but limited (Islamic country)

Dining Culture #

Meal Times:

• Breakfast: 7-9 AM
• Lunch: 2-4 PM (main meal)
• Dinner: 8-10 PM

Dining Out:

• Restaurants: Range from basic to upscale
• Traditional: Many restaurants serve local specialties
• International: Available in tourist areas
• Hospitality: Very welcoming

Getting Around Jordan #

By Car #

• Good road network
• Rental available
• Drive on right side
• International driving permit recommended
• Easy to navigate
• Distances manageable

By Bus #

• Good network connecting cities
• JETT buses: Tourist-friendly
• Local buses: Affordable
• Good for budget travel
• Comfortable coaches

By Taxi #

• Available throughout
• Can be expensive
• Negotiate fares
• Private drivers available
• Good for flexibility

By Plane #

• Limited domestic flights
• Mainly Amman to Aqaba
• Not primary mode of transport

Why Book with Professional Tour Operators #

Experienced Jordanian tour operators provide:

• Expert knowledge of sites and attractions
• Petra tour expertise and access
• Dead Sea experience arrangements
• Wadi Rum desert tour coordination
• Transportation logistics
• Language barriers overcome with multilingual guides
• Cultural immersion experiences
• Emergency support throughout country
• Local insights and hidden gems
• Security and safety knowledge

Practical Information for Travelers #

Entry Requirements #

• Many nationalities: Visa on arrival available
• Some nationalities: Visa required in advance
• Valid passport required
• Check current requirements before travel
• Jordan Pass: Includes visa and site entry

Electricity #

• 230V, 50 Hz
• Plug types: Type C (European), Type F, Type G
• Adapters available
• Check device voltage compatibility

National Holidays #

• January 1: New Year’s Day
• May 1: Labour Day
• May 25: Independence Day
• June 10: Army Day
• November 14: King’s Birthday
• December 25: Christmas
• Islamic holidays: Variable dates (Ramadan, Eid)

Health #

• No required vaccinations (check current requirements)
• Tap water generally safe in cities
• Sun protection essential
• Travel insurance recommended
• Healthcare quality good

Communication #

• Country code: +962
• Mobile coverage good
• Wi-Fi available in hotels and cafes
• SIM cards available for tourists
• Major carriers: Zain, Orange, Umniah

Shopping #

• Mosaics: Madaba, traditional crafts
• Dead Sea products: Cosmetics, health products
• Handicrafts: Traditional crafts
• Spices: Local spices
• Jewelry: Gold and silver work
• Textiles: Traditional fabrics

Discover Jordan’s extraordinary ancient history and natural beauty with experienced tour operators who can customize your perfect itinerary, from exploring magnificent Petra to floating in the Dead Sea, from experiencing Wadi Rum’s desert beauty to visiting ancient Roman ruins, and everything this magnificent Middle Eastern kingdom has to offer history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and culture lovers.