Travel Guide to Jordan: Explore Jordan, The Kingdom of Time
His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein is the reigning monarch of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, leading the country as head of state, chief executive, and commander-in-chief of the armed forces. He ascended to the throne on February 7, 1999, following the passing of his father, the late King Hussein, continuing the Hashemite legacy in Jordan. Jordan, often called “The Kingdom of Time,” is a land where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. From ancient ruins to breathtaking deserts, this Middle Eastern gem offers travelers experiences they will never forget. Whether you are seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or a relaxing getaway, With Jordan Experience Tours as your trusted tour guide, you’ll explore historical sites, natural wonders, and cultural treasures that make Jordan a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Top Destinations in Jordan
The Rose City:
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Petra is an ancient Nabatean city carved into red sandstone cliffs. Walk through the Siq, admire the Treasury, and explore the hidden tombs to fully immerse yourself in history.
The Valley of the Moon:
Known for its dramatic desert landscapes, Wadi Rum is perfect for jeep tours, camel rides, and stargazing. Experience Bedouin hospitality and camp under the stars for a truly unforgettable adventure.
The Lowest Point on Earth:
Float effortlessly in the salty waters of the Dead Sea and enjoy natural mineral mud treatments. The therapeutic waters make it a top destination for relaxation and wellness.
The Modern & Historic Capital
Explore Amman’s ancient citadel, bustling markets, and vibrant cafes. The city offers a mix of modern comforts and rich historical sites.
Discover the Roman ruins of Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities, and visit Ajloun Castle for stunning views of northern Jordan.
Relax in the thermal mineral springs at Hammamat Ma’in.
Practical Travel Information
Arabic is the official language; English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country, yet it proudly embraces a diverse and multi-religious society. The Jordanian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, allowing all people to practice their faiths and beliefs freely.
This atmosphere of mutual respect and coexistence is one of the main pillars of Jordan’s long-standing stability and peace. Around 92% of Jordanians are Muslim, while approximately 8% are Christian, forming an integral part of the nation’s cultural and social fabric.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
Currency & Payments
Explore Jordan’s bustling markets and souks for unique handicrafts, spices, jewelry, and souvenirs. Bargaining is part of the shopping culture, so be ready to negotiate for the best prices.
The Jordanian Dinar (JD) is the official currency of Jordan. Banknotes currently in circulation include 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 JD denominations. It is recommended to exchange your money at reputable banks, authorized exchange offices, or hotels. Avoid exchanging money on the streets for safety reasons. The Central Bank of Jordan updates the exchange rates daily.
All major credit cards — including MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and Diners Club, are widely accepted across Jordan. However, please note that many smaller shops and local markets only accept cash payments in Jordanian dinars, so it’s recommended to keep some local currency on hand for convenience.
Tipping in Jordan is a common and appreciated practice, reflecting the country’s warm hospitality culture. While not mandatory, it’s customary to leave a tip when you receive good service, as many workers in the tourism and service sectors rely on gratuities as part of their income.
Here’s a general guide for tipping in Jordan (in cash and USD or JOD equivalent):
For Small Private Trips (up to 6 guests):
Airport/Border Representative: $10–$20 USD per group
Private Driver: $15–$30 USD per day per group
Spot Guides (Petra, Jerash, Wadi Rum 4×4 Bedouin driver, etc.): $30–$50 USD per visit/guide per group
Private Tour Guide: $30–$50 USD per day per group
Restaurants: Around 10% of the bill
Hotels: Not expected, but $1–$2 USD is appreciated for luggage assistance or exceptional service
Gas Station Attendants: Not expected, but $1 JD tip is appreciated if your budget allows
For Larger Group Tours (7+ guests):
Airport/Border Representative: $2–$3 USD per person
Private Driver: $3–$5 USD per person per day
Private Guide: $5–$7 USD per person per day
Restaurants: Around 10% of the bill
Hotels: Not expected, but $1–$2 USD for luggage or extra service is always appreciated
💡 Tip: Always tip in cash and hand it directly to the service provider when possible. It’s a simple gesture that goes a long way in showing appreciation for excellent hospitality in Jordan.
Although Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country, alcohol is widely available and can be enjoyed in moderation. Many hotels, restaurants, and licensed bars serve alcoholic beverages, and there are also licensed liquor stores in major cities.
However, since drinking is not common among most locals, visitors are kindly advised to consume alcohol responsibly and discreetly, especially in public places. Respect for local customs ensures a pleasant experience for everyone.
Local Time & Public Holidays
GMT +3
Jordan is seven hours ahead of US Eastern Time.
Dates vary each year; plan your travel accordingly
During official public holidays, most banks, government offices, and many private businesses remain closed for the entire day.
Fixed Public Holidays (Solar Calendar):
New Year’s Day: January 1
Labor Day: May 1
Independence Day: May 25
Christmas Day: December 25
Variable Public Holidays (Lunar Calendar):
Eid al-Fitr: A 3–4 day celebration marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
Eid al-Adha: A 4-day festival following the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
Islamic New Year (1st of Muharram): Marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar year.
Mawlid al-Nabi (12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal): Commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Ramadan is a sacred month in Jordan, centered on fasting, generosity, and reflection. Its dates change each year according to the Islamic lunar calendar. From sunrise to sunset, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and consuming alcohol in public.
During this time, alcohol is generally unavailable except in some international hotels. Visitors are kindly encouraged to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours out of respect for local traditions. However, if done unintentionally, Jordanians are known for their understanding and hospitality toward visitors.
Visitors are kindly encouraged to use water responsibly, as Jordan is among the countries with limited water resources. While tap water is not recommended for drinking, bottled water is readily available and inexpensive throughout the country. Most three-star and higher-rated hotels are equipped with their own water filtration systems, ensuring safe and clean water for guests.
Why Jordan Experience
At Jordan Experience, we provide travelers with expert insights on tours, local experiences, and travel planning. Our goal is to help you explore Jordan confidently and create memories that last a lifetime.
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