Jordan is straightforward for first-time visitors: English is widely spoken in tourism, the currency (Jordanian Dinar) is stable, and the tourist circuit is well set up for international travelers. Here's what's actually useful to know before you book.
Currency and Costs
The Jordanian Dinar (JD) is pegged to the US Dollar at a stable rate (roughly 1 JD ≈ $1.41). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants in Amman, the Dead Sea, and Petra; carry some cash for smaller vendors, tips, and rural areas like Wadi Rum and Dana.
Language
Arabic is the official language, but English is common in tourism — guides, hotels, and restaurants in touristed areas generally operate comfortably in English. Learning a few Arabic greetings is appreciated but not necessary.
What to Wear
Jordan is a Muslim-majority country with a moderate, tourism-friendly dress culture. Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered) is respectful in religious sites and more conservative towns; swimwear is fine at Dead Sea and Aqaba resorts. Comfortable walking shoes matter more than any specific outfit — Petra alone involves significant walking on uneven stone.
Tipping
Tipping is customary and appreciated — for guides and drivers, a general guide is 5–10 JD per day per traveler, adjusted for group size and service length. It's not included in most tour pricing and should be budgeted separately.
Getting Around
Distances in Jordan are manageable — Amman to Petra is about 3 hours by road, Petra to Wadi Rum about 1.5 hours. Private vehicle transport (included in most of our itineraries) is far more comfortable than public transport for a first trip, especially outside Amman.
What Surprises First-Time Visitors
How compact the country is — you can genuinely cover Amman, the Dead Sea, Petra, and Wadi Rum in 5 days without feeling rushed. Also common: how much more there is beyond Petra once people realize it, which is exactly what our themed itineraries (Historical, Adventure, Cultural Immersion) are built around.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa?
Most nationalities need a visa, though the Jordan Pass waives the visa fee for eligible travelers staying 3+ nights. See our visa guide for details.
Is Jordan a good first Middle East destination?
Yes — it's one of the most tourism-ready countries in the region, with an established guide network, good infrastructure between major sites, and a genuinely warm hospitality culture.