To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on your Jordan tour, it is important to be well-prepared before arriving in the country. Below are key details that travelers should be aware of before departure.
Important Travel Information
-
Long driving hours: Southern Jordan tours (Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea) involve extended travel times:
- Amman to Petra: 3 hours
- Petra to Wadi Rum: 2 hours
- Wadi Rum to Dead Sea: 4 hours
- Dead Sea to Amman: 1 hour
- Rest stops are provided along the way.
-
Petra requires extensive walking: While donkeys, horse carriages, golf carts, and camels are available for hire, it is recommended to walk to fully experience the site.
-
Recommended attire:
- For hiking at Petra and Wadi Rum: Comfortable sport shoes, hiking boots, hat, and sunglasses.
- For overnight stays at Wadi Rum: A soft jacket for cooler nights and very warm clothes during winter (December–January).
- For Dead Sea or Wadi Rum swimming: Bring swimming clothes, slippers, and personal toiletries (not provided).
-
Local guides & entry fees:
- Most tours do not include local tour guides or site entry fees unless requested.
- A licensed guide at Petra can be arranged from the Visitor Center ($75 for 2 hours).
- Avoid unofficial guides to prevent scams and unsafe trails.
-
Starting your Petra visit: It is strongly recommended to enter Petra via the main entrance/Visitor Center and not via alternative or back routes.
-
Wadi Rum pickup & accommodation:
- Travelers will be dropped off at the Bedouin camp or meeting point with local camp owners.
- Winter nights in Wadi Rum can be very cold, so pack accordingly. Jeep rides are in open vehicles, so warm clothing is necessary.
-
Hotels & accommodation:
- 3-star hotels are included in tour packages and are centrally located near service areas.
- Higher-rated hotels are available but may be further from city centers and visitor attractions.
-
Luggage capacity:
- Sedan cars: Suitable for 1–3 passengers, with up to 3 medium-sized bags.
- H1 Van: Required for larger luggage (extra charge applies).
-
Tour drop-off locations:
- Most tours end in Amman.
- Airport drop-off costs $50 extra, unless included in the tour package.
-
Wadi Rum Jeep Tour:
- The standard 2-hour Jeep tour covers areas near the camp.
- Travelers should inform us in advance if they have specific locations they wish to visit.
-
Deluxe Tents in Wadi Rum:
- Deluxe tents include AC and private bathrooms but are not the same as Bubble or Martian tents.
-
Dead Sea entry fees:
- $30–$40 per person (paid directly to the driver if arranged through the company).
-
Cancellation Policy:
- Cancellations within 7 days of the tour are non-refundable.
Important Information for Small Group Tours
If you are joining a small group tour instead of a private tour, please note:
-
Fixed itinerary & timing:
- Group tours have a strict schedule and cannot be customized.
- Morning pickup between 6:30 – 7:30 AM.
-
Luggage restrictions:
- One bag + one small backpack per traveler.
- If traveling with extra luggage, a private tour is recommended.
-
Accommodation:
- Single travelers get private tents (not shared with others).
-
Drop-off locations:
- Group tours start and end in Amman only. No airport stops.
-
Age restrictions:
- Minimum age: 12 years
- Maximum age: 65 years
-
Tour Guide & Optional Activities:
- Travelers can share the cost of a Petra guide.
- Wadi Rum sunset tour is optional and can be arranged for an additional cost.
Upgrade Options (Available for Private Tours Only)
-
Bedouin camp upgrade:
- Deluxe tents with AC & private bathroom:
- $75 for one person
- $90 for two people
- $100 for three people
- $125 for four people
- Note: This upgrade is not always available.
- Deluxe tents with AC & private bathroom:
-
Wadi Rum optional activities:
- Sunrise/Sunset Jeep tour: $50 per vehicle (up to 6 people).
- Camel ride (30 minutes): $20 per person.
- Petra tour guide (2 hours): $75.
Bedouin Camp Experience in Wadi Rum
- Authentic Bedouin-style camps provide a traditional desert experience.
- Two types of tents:
- Deluxe Tents: AC, private bathrooms.
- Classic Tents: Shared restrooms, no AC.
- Quiet, family-operated camps located inside Wadi Rum Reserve.
Jordan Pass & Entry Fees
- Jordan Pass is recommended for travelers staying two or more nights in Jordan.
- Purchase online at jordanpass.jo for $99.
- Included in Jordan Pass:
- Visa fees
- Entry to Petra and Wadi Rum
Site Entry Fees (if not using Jordan Pass):
- Petra: $71 per person (included in Jordan Pass)
- Wadi Rum: $10 per person (included in Jordan Pass)
- Mujib Siq Trail: $30 per person (not included in Jordan Pass)
- Dead Sea Resort Entry (not included in Jordan Pass):
- $30 per person (without lunch)
- $40 per person (with lunch)
General Notes & Guidelines
-
Driver availability:
- Drivers escort travelers according to the itinerary but are not available 24/7.
- They require rest breaks after long driving hours.
-
Language:
- Drivers speak basic to moderate English but are not licensed tour guides.
- Only licensed tour guides can escort travelers at sites.
-
Wadi Rum transport:
- Local Bedouin 4x4 trucks are used for Jeep tours.
- No AC in these vehicles.
-
Tipping etiquette in Jordan:
- Tips are expected, appreciated, and highly recommended for guides and drivers.
-
Hotel check-in & check-out:
- Check-in at Petra hotels starts at 3:00 PM.
- Travelers must check out before starting their Petra tour the following day.
-
Hotel availability:
- In peak season, hotels near Petra may be fully booked, requiring alternative accommodation further from the city center.
-
Passports:
- Travelers must carry their passports at all times, especially at Petra.