Travel Advice for Jordan

Whether you’re visiting Jordan with children, solo traveling, exploring as part of a volunteer project, navigating the country with a disability, or visiting as an LGBT couple, it helps to be prepared. This guide brings together practical tips, cultural insights, and safety advice to ensure a comfortable, meaningful journey across Jordan.

Traveling With Children

Jordanian culture places families at its center and values children highly within the community. Tourists with children are equally valued, so families should expect to be greeted with a big smile on a regular basis. Jordan is a safe destination for children, and local kids often walk to school and play on the streets unaccompanied.

Most hotels in Jordan cater to young children, but it’s always best to check before booking. Of course, the weather can be intense, particularly in summer, so families should keep well hydrated and protected from the sun, or visit during a cooler season. There is also plenty to do for adults and children of all ages, including camel rides across the desert, wild camping experiences, snorkeling in the Red Sea, and lots of castles and museums to explore.

LGBT Travelers

Jordan is one of the few Middle Eastern countries where same-sex sexual activity is legal. That said, social attitudes remain conservative, and LGBTQ+ relationships are still largely taboo. Public displays of affection are strongly discouraged for all couples, regardless of sexuality. While discrimination and stigma can occur, Amman has some discreet LGBTQ+-friendly venues, such as Books@cafe, where international visitors often feel welcome. With caution and respect for local customs, LGBTQ+ travelers can still enjoy a safe and memorable visit to Jordan.

Female Travelers

Solo female travelers can explore Jordan with confidence, but it’s important to stay aware of local customs and social norms. Many women visit Jordan each year without issues, but some may encounter unwanted attention, such as catcalling or persistent marriage proposals, particularly in cities and towns. Being prepared, dressing modestly, and staying alert in public spaces can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Travelers With Disabilities

With ancient sites, old uneven pavements, and bustling city centers, unfortunately, Jordan is not a very accessible country for disabled visitors. Travelers with disabilities should note that many of the famous archaeological sites, including those in Petra, involve lots of stairs and bumpy ground.

At places like Petra, there are some options to help visitors with reduced mobility. For example, golf carts and carriage rides can assist with parts of the main trail, but large areas still involve uneven ground that can be hard to access independently. Local people are often willing to help, and with planning and support, travelers with disabilities can still enjoy Jordan’s highlights.

Working/Volunteering

For those who wish to give something back to the community whilst traveling, volunteering is a fantastic way to help others, gain experience, develop skills, and learn the language and culture of the country. In Jordan, there are a number of projects that accept international volunteers in schools, ecological programmes, and the Royal Botanic Garden.

In most cases, volunteers are provided with accommodation and Arabic lessons in return for their service. Volunteers usually commit to a project for a minimum period, ranging from as little as two weeks to several months. Travelers can also find paid work in Jordan, either through their organization or by joining a teaching program.

Whether working or volunteering, visitors will need to get a working visa, which they can apply for in their country of residence. Though volunteering and working in another country is an exciting experience, visitors should always respect the rules of the towns and villages they work in and aim to learn about local life.

Our Advice for Travelers in Jordan

Whether traveling alone, with children, or with a loved one, visitors to Jordan should always follow the advice outlined above. To discover more detailed guidance on health, safety, and local customs, refer to our comprehensive Jordan travel resources, featuring plenty of inspiration as well as practical tips like how to buy a SIM card in Jordan.

Take the stress out of planning and travel confidently with our Jordan day tours, which guide you safely through the country’s must-see highlights like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. For travelers who are hoping to fully experience Jordan and debating whether to join a tour package in Jordan, our Jordan Package Tours promise carefully curated itineraries, as well as handpicked hotels, smooth transfers, and exciting guided excursions, so you can focus on discovering the country’s history, culture, and landscapes with peace of mind.

Memorable, Hassle-free Jordan Adventures