I’m going to share with you a very practical guide about how to efficiently and conveniently travel around Jordan, a land rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. As a destination with ancient sites, breathtaking nature, and vibrant culture, Jordan attracts travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring Petra’s ancient wonders or crossing the vast sands of Wadi Rum, understanding the transportation options in Jordan is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. So let’s dive into this guide on how to navigate Jordan efficiently!
1. Arriving in Jordan: Start Your Adventure at King Hussein International Airport
Most international flights to Jordan arrive at King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba, located in the southern part of the country. There are daily flights from various international cities, making it very accessible for tourists. The airport is only about 15 minutes by car from Aqaba city center, which makes it super convenient for travelers who want to get started on their adventures right away.
How to Get From Aqaba Airport to the City Center
Once you arrive at King Hussein International Airport, you can easily get to the city center by taxi or arrange a hotel transfer. Taxis are the most common option, and the ride takes about 15 minutes. The cost typically ranges between 10-15 Jordanian Dinars (around 14-21 USD). If you’ve booked a hotel transfer in advance, you’ll likely find the hotel staff waiting for you at the airport to guide you to your transport.
2. Jordan Pass: Making Your Travel More Convenient and Cost-Effective
If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions in Jordan, purchasing the Jordan Pass is a great choice. The Jordan Pass allows you to pay for entry in advance and provides access to over 40 major sites across the country, including the world-renowned Petra, Wadi Rum, and Jerash, among others. Another benefit of the Jordan Pass is that, if you’re staying for at least three nights, it grants you a visa exemption, saving you on visa fees.
Benefits of the Jordan Pass
- Skip the hassle of purchasing individual tickets and head straight into major attractions.
- Enjoy fast-track entry at popular sites like Petra and Wadi Rum.
- Save on visa fees, especially for those staying multiple days in Jordan.
3. Public Transportation in Jordan: Buses and Long-Distance Coaches
While Jordan’s public transportation system may not be as developed as in Europe or North America, there are still several options available for tourists. Buses and long-distance coaches are common, especially for travelers who are on a budget or prefer to go the independent route.
City Buses
In major cities like Amman, Aqaba, and Irbid, city buses are an economical and simple mode of transport. Though the buses are not always the most modern, they’re certainly functional for short-distance travel. Bus fare is typically very affordable, but it’s worth noting that many buses don’t have clear route signs, so passengers often need to tell the driver where they’d like to get off.
Long-Distance Buses
For traveling between cities, long-distance buses are the most common and reliable form of transport. For example, you can take the Jett Bus (a comfortable coach service) from Amman to Petra, Wadi Rum, or other popular tourist spots. The Jett Bus provides direct routes between key cities and attractions, and it’s a great way to travel in comfort and convenience.
The journey from Amman to Petra, for instance, takes about 4-5 hours, and the cost ranges between 10-15 Jordanian Dinars (about 14-21 USD). It’s a cost-effective and comfortable option for long-distance travel.
4. Taxis: Quick and Convenient but Relatively Expensive
If you’re looking for a faster and more convenient way to get around Jordan, taxis are a great option. Taxis are widely available in cities and tourist areas, making them an easy choice for those who prefer door-to-door service.
How to Use Taxis
Unlike in some other countries, Jordan doesn’t have a unified taxi meter system, so it’s common to negotiate the fare with the driver before starting the journey. For example, the fare from Amman to Petra could cost around 60-70 Jordanian Dinars (85-100 USD), depending on the route and traffic conditions. It’s always a good idea to confirm the price before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings.
Additionally, taxis in Jordan can also be booked through apps like OTaxi or Careem. These services are quite popular, especially in cities, and can be very convenient for travelers who prefer to book a ride in advance or face language barriers.
5. Car Rental: The Best Option for Exploring Jordan Freely
If you want the flexibility to explore Jordan at your own pace, especially for trips to remote locations like Petra, Wadi Rum, or the Dead Sea, renting a car is an excellent choice. The roads in Jordan are generally in good condition, especially on highways between major cities, so driving is relatively safe.
How to Rent a Car
Car rental services are easily available in major cities like Amman and Aqaba, as well as at the airport. You can rent a variety of vehicles, including economy sedans, SUVs, and 4x4s. If you’re planning to venture into the desert or rural areas, a 4×4 is definitely recommended.
Traffic Rules and Driving Tips
- Jordan follows a driving system similar to many European and American countries, where you drive on the right side of the road.
- Although traffic in Jordan is generally orderly, Amman, in particular, can be quite chaotic, so it’s essential to stay alert when driving.
- Visitors can drive in Jordan with an International Driver’s Permit (IDP), as long as they hold a valid driving license. Be aware that parking can be tricky in busy areas, so keep an eye out for signs indicating whether parking is allowed.
6. Getting Between Tourist Attractions: Convenient Routes for City and Nature Explorations
Jordan’s main attractions are spread out across the country, but fortunately, transportation between cities and popular sites is very accessible. For example, there are plenty of buses and taxis available to take you from Amman to Petra, Wadi Rum, and other iconic spots.
Amman to Petra
If you’re departing from Amman and heading to Petra, long-distance buses or taxis are the most common and practical options. Jett Bus provides a regular service to Petra, which is comfortable and affordable. The journey takes around 4 hours.
Exploring Wadi Rum Desert
From Amman or Petra, you can either rent a car or join a desert tour to get to Wadi Rum. The roads leading to Wadi Rum can be a bit tricky, especially for those unfamiliar with the area, so joining a guided tour is a great way to ensure a safe and smooth journey.
A Convenient and Efficient Journey Through Jordan
Overall, Jordan’s transportation system, while not as extensive as in some other countries, offers a variety of options that allow travelers to get around comfortably. Whether you’re taking a taxi, a long-distance bus, or renting a car, there are plenty of ways to explore the ancient wonders and natural beauty of this fascinating country. By planning your transportation options in advance, you can make your trip more seamless and enjoyable.
I hope this transportation guide will help you plan a smooth and efficient trip to Jordan, allowing you to fully enjoy everything this incredible land has to offer.