Located just over four hours away from one another, visitors can combine the upmarket Jordanian coastal city of Aqaba with Israel’s majestic city of Jerusalem. With shuttle buses and affordable taxis, it is easy to get from Aqaba to Jerusalem. The journey usually takes around four hours and can be done either independently or as part of a group tour. The best way to reach Jerusalem from Aqaba is to cross at the Wadi Araba crossing into the charming coastal resort of Eilat and then on to Jerusalem.
Tour from Aqaba to Jerusalem
Tours depart from Aqaba to Jerusalem on a guaranteed basis and offer a great value way to visit Jerusalem for one or two days. Also including a stop at the Dead Sea, and optionally Bethlehem, the Jerusalem tours from Aqaba include a comprehensive introduction to the sites of Jerusalem and offer the perfect solution for those looking to get a taste of this unique city. More information about tours from Aqaba to Jerusalem can be found here.
Shuttle From Aqaba to Jerusalem
Visitors can get from Aqaba straight to Eilat by shuttle bus. Shuttle buses run twice a day at 7.30 am and 18.00 from most hotels in Aqaba and from Aqaba airport. The journey from Aqaba to Eilat is around 25 USD per person. The shuttle bus can take a while to get through to Israel depending on the number of people on board. The buses have a member of staff on board who will help with any queries, take tax fees and even pre-arrange visas if requested to do so in advance.
For those who do not want to wait in a group bus, private transfers can also be used to save time. The private transfers are very affordable and are a better option for families or larger groups.
From Eilat, visitors can take a shuttle bus from the airport or city center. Shuttle buses from the city center only operate on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and cost 35USD. The shuttle can be booked online through Eilat Shuttle and takes five hours to reach Jerusalem. Passengers can arrange to be picked up from their hotel in Eilat. Private transfers are also available for those who prefer the comfort of a private vehicle.
Using a Taxi to Get From Aqaba to Jerusalem
From Aqaba, visitors can take a taxi to the Wadi Araba border crossing in just over ten minutes. It is easy to find a taxi and the journey will cost around 11 JD (15.50USD), just be sure to negotiate a fee before getting into the taxi.
Upon arrival at the Wadi Araba Crossing, you will need to pay crossing fees and taxes. (Note: this border has changed its rules on visas upon arrival so check before departure or secure a visa in your country of residence). From the Israeli side of the border, visitors can take a taxi from the border directly into the city center which usually takes around 15 minutes and costs 30-40 NIS (8.50-12USD).
From Eilat, visitors can take a taxi to Jerusalem but as it is a three-hour journey from Eilat, taxis can be very expensive. Alternatively, visitors can opt for one of the below transport options from Eilat.
Getting From Aqaba to Jerusalem By Bus
Once at Eilat, visitors can take a local bus into Jerusalem. Bus 444 departs from the Eilat Central Bus Station four times a day. The journey takes between 4 and 5 hours and only costs 82NIS (23.50USD).
Best way to Get From Aqaba to Jerusalem
To get from Aqaba to Jerusalem visitors should travel into the Israeli city of Eilat first. Eilat is quick and easy to get to reach from Aqaba and the city has many transport links into Jerusalem. The most convenient way to get from Eilat to Jerusalem is by taking the shuttle bus which only costs 35USD and is a comfortable form of transport.
