BEFORE YOU GO

CLIMATE AND WEATHER

Jordan experiences a warm and arid climate with long, hot summers and brief, cool winters. Its geographical location between the dryness of the Arabian desert and the humidity of the eastern Mediterranean greatly influences its weather. Summer temperatures (May–August) can be extreme, while winter nights, especially in deserts, can drop to 5°C or lower. Optimal visiting times are spring and autumn, with warm days, cool nights, low humidity, and little rainfall. Winter brings cold mornings/evenings, fog, and freezing temperatures, so warm clothing is essential..

WHAT TO TAKE AND NEED

Although Western clothing is widely accepted, Jordanians typically adhere to more traditional clothing styles. To show respect for the local culture, it is advisable to dress modestly, avoiding sleeveless or low-cut tops. Shorts are generally acceptable in major tourist areas. Women should cover their heads, arms, and legs when entering religious structures. In desert settings, especially during nighttime or open jeep rides (particularly from October to March), temperatures can unexpectedly drop, so it's advisable to pack warm and windproof clothing.

CLOTHING

• Walking shoes or trainers
• Sandals, T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts
• Casual trousers, shorts, optional tracksuits
• Fleece, sweatshirt, warm jacket for winter
• Swimwear, sarong, sunhat
• Lightweight wind/waterproof jacket
• Warm jacket (winter only)
• Warm hat and gloves (for winter in desert)

EQUIPMENT

• Soft-sided bag, daypack
• Sleeping sheet/liner for Wadi Rum camp
• Sunglasses, camera, memory cards
• Passport, cash, cards, insurance, travel adapter
• First aid kit, towel, plastic bags for dust protection

CHECK LIST

• Travel documents, passport, visa, insurance
• Health requirements arranged
• Cash & credit cards (USD or JD)
• Money pouch, personal hygiene kit

HEALTH AND SAFETY

• Recommended vaccinations: Hep A, Tetanus, Polio, Diphtheria
• Stay hydrated, avoid uncooked food, hand hygiene
• Keep valuables safe; follow guide’s advice during free time

LOCAL CULTURE

Jordan is conservative. Cover shoulders and knees; shorts only at beaches/pools. Jordanians are welcoming and hospitable, especially in villages.

VISAS

Most nationalities can get a single-entry visa on arrival (14 days, JOD40). Consult your nearest Jordanian embassy for details.

CURRENCY & SPENDING

• Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JD), 1 USD ≈ 0.708 JD
• Credit cards accepted in banks/hotels; cash needed in desert camps
• ATMs widely available; avoid travelers’ cheques
• Plan expenses for meals, drinks, and shopping

TIPPING

Tipping is customary. Suggested: ~15 USD/day per person for local service providers. Reward good service appropriately without over-generosity.