Jordan - Country Information

Jordan is a country in the Middle East known for its rich historical heritage and cultural diversity. Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a modern city with ancient roots, home to numerous historical monuments and archaeological sites. One of the most famous sites in Jordan is the ancient rock city of Petra, which is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Petra attracts tourists from around the world with its temples, tombs, and amphitheaters.

Jordan is also known for its natural beauty. The Dead Sea, located on the border with Israel and Palestine, is the lowest point on Earth and is known for its healing properties due to its high salt and mineral content. Wadi Rum, the Valley of the Moon, is a desert region with unique landscapes often used as a film set.

Jordanians are known for their hospitality and friendliness, making traveling in this country particularly pleasant. Here, you can enjoy a variety of Middle Eastern dishes such as Manji, Hummus, and Falafel.

For tourists, Jordan offers numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, and diving in the Red Sea. The country is also an important religious center with many holy sites for Christians, Muslims, and Jews.

The national currency of Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). It is divided into 100 Piasters or 1,000 Fils. There are banknotes in the denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 Dinar, as well as coins valued at 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 Piasters in circulation.

The Jordanian currency is stable and pegged to the US Dollar. This makes currency exchange convenient for tourists as the exchange rate remains relatively constant.

It is recommended to bring US Dollars or Euros as they can easily be exchanged for Jordanian Dinars in banks, exchange offices, and hotels. Credit cards are widely accepted in the country, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. However, cash may be preferable in remote areas and markets. It is advisable to carry small bills for ease of use in small purchases and tips.

The climate in Jordan, located in the Middle East, is very diverse, ranging from the Mediterranean in the north to the desert in the south. Knowing the climatic conditions can help you choose the best time to visit.

In northern Jordan, around Amman and Jerash, there is a moderate climate. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 30-35 °C. Winters are cool and humid, with temperatures around 10-15 °C and possible rain. The central part of the country, including Petra and Wadi Rum, has a more desert-like climate. Summers can be extremely hot here, with temperatures reaching up to 40 °C and more, while winters are cool with night temperatures dropping to 0 °C. The southern part of Jordan, including Aqaba, has a typical desert climate with hot summers and mild winters.

The best time to visit Jordan is in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these seasons, the weather is most pleasant for traveling. In spring, nature comes to life and you can enjoy green landscapes and blooming flowers. In autumn, temperatures in Jordan become more moderate after the summer heat, making travel pleasant and comfortable.

When planning a trip to Jordan, it is important to think about travel insurance. Health insurance is a must for all travelers as it covers treatment costs in case of illness or injury. Travel insurance for Jordan can also cover trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other unforeseen situations. You can purchase travel insurance for Jordan on our website online.

Travel insurance for Jordan provides you with security and protection against financial risks related to medical costs and other unforeseen circumstances.

Health insurance for trips to Jordan should be purchased in advance so that you can enjoy your trip worry-free. We can help you select and apply for insurance for Jordan to cover all possible risks and meet your needs.

Jordanian cuisine offers a variety of dishes and drinks that reflect the traditions and customs of the region. The main ingredients of Jordanian cuisine include meat, rice, vegetables, spices, and herbs. Many dishes are cooked over an open fire, giving them a distinctive taste and texture.

Traditional Dishes in Jordan

• Mansaf is the Jordanian national dish. It consists of lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce and served with rice and nuts. This dish is often served at large gatherings and family celebrations. Mansaf symbolizes hospitality and unity and is a must-try for any visitor to the country.
• Makaddim is a chicken or lamb dish prepared with vegetables and spices. It is served with rice or bread and often accompanied by various sauces.
• Makluba is a dish made of meat, rice, and vegetables that is flipped before serving.
• Falafel are a popular dish in the Middle East, and Jordan is no exception. These fried balls made of chickpeas or beans are served in flatbread with vegetables and sauces. Falafel is an ideal dish for vegetarians and anyone looking for a light snack.
• Hummus is another popular dish in Jordan. This creamy dip made of chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic is served with bread or vegetables.

Drinks in Jordan

Tea is one of the most popular drinks in Jordan. It is consumed at any time of day or night and is an important part of Jordanian culture. Tea is often served with mint or sage, giving it a special taste and aroma.

Mint Lemonade is a refreshing drink that is perfect for the hot Jordanian climate. This drink is made from fresh lemons, mint, and sugar and is available in most cafes and restaurants.

Arak is an alcoholic drink made from grapes and anise, often served at parties and celebrations.

By trying the local food, you can better understand Jordanian way of living and enjoy the unique flavors and aromas. Whether you try Jordanian cuisine in a restaurant, at a market, or in a guesthouse, you will surely be satisfied and happy to come back.

Jordan is a country that combines a rich history, diverse natural landscapes, and a modern tourist infrastructure. It offers many opportunities for travelers, whether for family outings or solo adventures.

Tourism is one of Jordan's most important economic sectors. In recent years, the country has actively developed its tourist potential by offering a variety of different types of tourism.

• Cultural tourism: Visiting ancient cities like Petra, Amman, Jerash, and Madaba. These places are rich in historical monuments and archaeological finds.
• Beach vacation: Aqaba on the coast of the Red Sea offers excellent conditions for diving and snorkeling.
• Health tourism: The Dead Sea is famous for its healing waters and healing mud used for treatments.
• Adventure tourism: The Wadi Rum desert offers opportunities for camping, camel riding, and Jeep safaris.
• Religious tourism: Places associated with biblical stories, such as Mount Nebo and the Jordan River, attract pilgrims from around the world.

Tips and advice for travelers in Jordan:

• Safety: Jordan is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East.
• Car rental: Renting a car requires an international driver's license and a credit card. It is forbidden to drive a rented car outside the country.
• Weekends: Friday is a day off in Jordan. Stores may be closed on Sunday.

Keep the main emergency numbers in Jordan for emergencies:

• Simple emergency number: 196
• Emergency, medical services, and fire department: 199
• General police phone: 191
• Traffic police: 190
• Tourist police: 196 (Extension: 4661)

Jordan offers many interesting and unique things that you can take home as souvenirs or gifts. Here are some of them:

What tourists should bring back from Jordan

• Cosmetics from the Dead Sea: Creams, masks, scrubs, and other cosmetics made with minerals from the Dead Sea are known for their healing properties.
• Ceramics and dishes: Locally painted ceramic plates, vases, and cups make wonderful souvenirs.
• Sand bottles: Traditional souvenirs with colorful sand from Petra.
• Jewelry: Silver and gold jewelry as well as Bedouin jewelry made of black silver, corals, and semi-precious stones.
• Carpets and textiles: Handmade carpets and textiles from Madaba.
• Olive oil: High-quality olive oil produced in Jordan.
• Arabic spices: Aromatic spices available at the markets of Amman.
• Coffee: Authentic Yemeni Robusta or Arabica coffee from Ethiopia.
• Mosaics: Small stone and ceramic works from Madaba.
• Handicrafts from olive wood: Various handicrafts made of olive wood such as figures and kitchen utensils.

What to bring back for children from Jordan

• Toys and souvenirs: Various toys and souvenirs like camels and palm trees on magnets and cups.
• Oriental sweets: Baklava, cookies, and other oriental sweets are a great gift for all sweet tooths.

The best places to shop in Jordan

• City Mall in Amman is one of the largest shopping centers in Jordan where you can find many international and local brands.
• Souk Jara is a popular flea market in Amman where you can buy unique souvenirs and handicrafts.
• Abdali Mall is a modern shopping center with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
• Mecca Mall is another large shopping center in Amman offering a wide range of goods and services.
• TAJ Lifestyle Centre is a stylish shopping center with many boutiques and restaurants.