Beyond Petra: Treasures of Jordan Revealed

While this Arab kingdom in Western Asia typically conjures up images of vast sprawling deserts, it is, in fact, a remarkably diverse destination offering ancient churches and castles, spectacular mountain scenery, and stunning beaches, as well as some famously friendly local inhabitants. Itinerary highlights include: the incredible Dead Sea; the 2000-year-old ‘lost city’ of Petra; and the famous Lawrence of Arabia trail, which takes visitors from the ruins of his fort at Azraq to the picturesque deserts of Wadi Rum. While Jordan’s long and fascinating history provides travellers with a host of intriguing historical and biblical sites, the country is certainly not stuck in the past. With its slew of modern luxury hotels, trendy restaurants and lively bars, the city serves as a great base to explore the many ancient sites. For a captivating destination full of natural, historical and cultural wonders, look no further than the enchanting nation of Jordan.

Currency 

Local currency: Jordanian Dinar 
Symbol: JD 
ISO code: JOD 
Subunit: Piastre 
Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 dinars 
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 piastres, 1 dinar 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: No 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 
Main airlines: Royal Jordanian, Jordan Aviation 
International Airports: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) 
Domestic Airports: King Hussein International Airport (AQJ), Amman Civil Airport (ADJ) 

Road: 
Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Limited 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 
Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: No 

Water: 
Ferries: No 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: No 

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: Jordanian cuisine is rich and diverse, influenced by Levantine and Mediterranean flavors. Mansaf, a dish of lamb cooked in fermented yogurt, is considered the national dish. Other popular dishes include falafel, hummus, and maqluba (an upside-down rice and vegetable dish). 

Drinks: Notable local drinks include mint tea, Arabic coffee, and Jallab (a sweet, rose-flavored drink). 

Tipping: 10-15% is customary in restaurants if a service charge is not included. 

Annual rainfall: Varies 
Average temperature: 22°C 

Summer: 
Average highs: 32°C 
Average lows: 18°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: 13°C 
Average lows: 6°C 

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Jordan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are comfortable. Avoid visiting during the summer due to high temperatures. 

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Plug Type: Type C, Type F 
Voltage (V): 230 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50 

Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.