Trip Preparation | Essential Travel Information for Jordan Private Tours

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.

Wadi Rum Jeep Tour – Discover the Valley of the Moon

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.

Wadi Rum desert - The Valley of the Moon in Jordan

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.

Bedouin Camp in Wadi Rum - Traditional desert experience under the stars

 

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.
  • 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)

4x4 Jeep Safari Tour in Wadi Rum - Adventure through Jordan’s red dunes

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.