Summary
You can explore a significant portion of Jordan during your initial visit, considering its relatively compact size (it is less than three-quarters the size of New York State).
However, the distinctive driving regulations, the absence of dependable public transportation choices, and the lengthy desert routes connecting popular destinations like Amman and Petra indicate that navigating Jordan necessitates careful preparation.
Whether you choose to drive, utilize bus services, or travel on foot, the best method to explore Jordan is contingent upon your preferences, financial considerations, itinerary, and travel style. The following insights may assist you in determining the optimal means of transportation.
Driving provides flexibility yet may induce stress
Renting a vehicle in Jordan presents both benefits and challenges—considering the pros and cons is essential in determining if it aligns with your requirements. Driving in Jordan may involve aggressive maneuvers, as vehicles may pass on either side and park indiscriminately (including sometimes in the center of the roadway). Lines and signs may appear more like suggestions than regulations, horn usage is excessive, and signal lights may be disregarded.
Consequently, driving here may not be suitable for cautious drivers. However, if you are confident behind the wheel and can adjust to the local driving culture, renting a car offers the advantage of visiting key sites at your own pace. Moreover, it allows access to remote locations such as the pre-Roman ruins near Iraq Al Amir, eliminating the additional expense of hiring a driver or engaging in a guided tour.
How to rent a car in Jordan
Car rental agencies are prevalent in larger cities such as Amman and Aqaba, where international brands like Hertz and Thrifty coalesce with local enterprises. Bargaining may be possible with local companies for a lower rate, although reserving a vehicle online in advance typically offers a set rate and assurance. Note that many establishments close on Fridays; if you require a vehicle for the weekend, it is advisable to confirm opening hours in advance or arrange to pick it up on Thursday.
The minimum age to rent a vehicle in Jordan is 21 (with additional charges for drivers under 25), and a valid driving license is necessary. Although an international driving permit is legally mandated to operate a vehicle in Jordan, rental agencies might not request it. Nonetheless, it is prudent to bring it along, even if you do not anticipate being asked to present it.
The appropriate vehicle will depend on your travel plans
Select a vehicle that corresponds to your itinerary: an economy model for primary highways and urban areas, where parking spaces may be limited, or a 4×4 for off-roading or driving through desert dunes (this is not advisable unless you are particularly experienced in driving over soft sand).
Before departing the rental lot, thoroughly inspect the car both inside and out, documenting any existing damage to avoid liability upon return. Additionally, it is crucial to test the heating and air conditioning, as Jordan’s weather can be extreme, and you want to avoid being unprepared during a road trip.
If you favor road trips and self-driving, you may miss valuable cultural and historical insights that a driver or tour guide can provide. Hiring a guide for locations like Jerash, Petra, and Wadi Rum can enrich your experience with local knowledge and storytelling, fostering connections and understanding of Jordanian hospitality while positively impacting the local economy.
What to consider before using a taxi in Jordan
Traditional yellow taxis are commonplace in urban centers, though they are less frequent in remote regions. When opting for a taxi, it is advisable to confirm the destination beforehand and request the driver to activate the meter immediately. Drivers are legally obliged to adhere to this; if they refuse, feel free to depart. Keep small bills handy, as Jordan largely operates cash transactions, and taxi drivers may struggle to provide change for larger denominations exceeding JD5.
While many drivers are amicable, some travelers report experiences of harassment and inflated charges in taxis. Therefore, it may be prudent to consider utilizing ride-sharing services instead.
Uber and Careem are widely available in major cities, providing easy scheduling and payment options via their applications. As the drivers are supervised by these companies, their vehicles tend to be cleaner, and you can track your ride for added security. However, these services are typically more expensive than traditional taxis, and you may experience longer wait times during peak hours, public holidays, or Thursday evenings. It is advisable to account for potential traffic delays when organizing your day.
Ultimately, whether you choose a traditional taxi or a ride-sharing service, be mindful of social norms: if the driver is male, male passengers are expected to occupy the front seat, while females should sit in the back. Conversely, if a female ride-share driver collects you, the seating arrangement is reversed, allowing female passengers to sit in the front and male passengers in the back.
For non-smokers, it may be more advantageous to rent a vehicle or hire a private driver, as it is not uncommon for taxi drivers to smoke while transporting passengers. While Uber prohibits this practice, some drivers may smoke right before picking up a fare, resulting in lingering smoke odors in the vehicle.
Utilizing buses for experience rather than convenience
City buses are available in Jordan, yet the public transportation system can often lack reliability and has limited reach. Timetables are challenging to locate, and buses typically do not connect popular tourist locations, making this option less appealing. Nevertheless, if you have spare time and are interested in the authentic experience of commuting with everyday Jordanians, you should consider trying it. Inquire with your hotel or travel agency for route details, as updated information may not be readily accessible online.
Inter-city minibuses also exist, albeit with the understanding that you will need considerable patience and basic Arabic skills. These buses generally depart only when fully occupied, resulting in potentially prolonged waiting times, and you may need to ask locals for departure and arrival points.
More spacious, air-conditioned JTT buses serve various tourist-friendly routes, including connections from Amman to Petra and Aqaba, as well as Aqaba to Wadi Rum. JTT additionally offers daily tours to several popular attractions, presenting a convenient package option. Timetables and route information are available online but may be subject to change, so it is advisable to contact them directly or visit the head office for ticket reservations.
Airport shuttle services for budget travelers
If you require an airport shuttle from Queen Alia International Airport to central Amman, the Sariya Airport Express bus caters to budget travelers. This service has received mixed feedback and does not provide hotel drop-off services, so if time is of the essence or you prefer private transport, considering a taxi or Uber would be preferable.
Guided tours are the most efficient means of transportation in Jordan
For those who wish to relinquish the responsibility of driving, guided tours present the most streamlined approach to navigating Jordan. While these may incur higher costs compared to buses or rental vehicles, they allow you to relax and absorb the experience, as the tour operator manages all logistics and traffic concerns. A guided tour also offers local perspectives, essential equipment (such as helmets for specific activities), security, assistance, and opportunities to connect with fellow travelers. Sharing transport with others can also contribute to reducing your carbon footprint.
If you seek self-drive freedom without the accompanying stress of navigation, inquire about personalized private tours, or develop your own itinerary and hire a driver.
Insider tip: Some rental car companies provide car-and-driver services. Reliable private drivers can often be found through personal recommendations and social media groups, like EXPATS in Amman—an excellent venue for gathering suggestions.
Flying may not be the optimal way to navigate Jordan
Considering Jordan’s size, the majority of travelers prefer to use cars, buses, or guided tours to traverse between Amman and Aqaba or Wadi Rum. Nevertheless, domestic flights exist between Amman and Aqaba. This one-hour journey can cost between JD50 to JD130, varying with the season and availability. Although the flight duration is brief, it is important to account for travel time to the airport and necessary check-in procedures.
Tips for traversing Jordan on foot
At first glance, Jordan appears to be an unwelcoming location for pedestrians. The weather can be extreme, sidewalks might be broken or entirely absent, and there are no subways or trains, while the steep terrain of Amman presents its own challenges—particularly during the scorching summer months. Nonetheless, walking is fundamentally ingrained in Bedouin culture, and emulating the footsteps of those who traversed these paths before you can reveal why it remains a preferred mode of transportation in Jordan.
While walking isn’t the most efficient means of navigating Amman, certain districts—such as Rainbow St, Al Webdeh, and Al Balad—provide enjoyable experiences when explored on foot. When planning your excursions, ensure to carry sufficient water and snacks, utilize sun protection, and wear durable shoes.
Outside urban areas, it is advisable to adhere to designated trails. The Jordan Trail, a 675km (420-mile) hiking route that spans from Umm Qais in the north to Aqaba in the south, allows you to traverse the country on foot. If you have the time (the trek typically takes between 30 to 45 days, depending on your pace) and physical capacity, this is the most environmentally sustainable and incredible means to experience Jordan. You will navigate the country’s diverse landscape, encounter numerous villages, follow Bedouin paths, and visit archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage sites including Gadara, Jerash, Petra, and Wadi Rum.
Insider tip: Refrain from hitchhiking. If you plan to cover considerable distances without following the Jordan Trail, contemplate renting a vehicle for long stretches while reserving walking or hiking for when you reach your specific destination.
Accessible transportation in Jordan
Accessible transportation options within Jordan are quite limited, thus travelers are encouraged to coordinate with their tour operator in advance regarding any necessary accommodations. Private transportation remains the most viable option for individuals with accessibility requirements. Accessible Jordan serves as a valuable resource for the latest options available. For further guidance, consult GoTravelDaily’s accessible travel hub.
This article was originally published on May 2, 2022, and was last updated on December 4, 2023.
