Is Jordan Safe for Travellers?

Jordan is a treasure trove of attractions. Be it the Petra's ancient city, the Dead Sea's tranquil waters, the panoramic views from Mount Nebo, the ancient Jawa Dam, Wadi Rum's Martian landscapes or the Jordan Museum in Amman, the country is filled with fun and adventurous escapades.

But one concerning factor is safety for travellers. Before packing up your bags and booking your tickets, it is important to know what you are getting yourself into, in terms of safety. Here is everything you need to know.

Image: The ancient ruins of Jerash in Jordan, featuring well-preserved columns and arches against a clear blue sky.

What to Expect When Visiting Jordan

First things first, let’s talk about the friendly vibes. Jordanians are known for their excellent hospitality. It’s not just a polite smile here and there. Their fashion is a full-on "welcome into my home, have some tea" kind of hospitality.

Expect locals to go out of their way to help you and make you feel safe and welcome. Whether it’s giving directions or sharing insider tips on the best local eats, you are sure to make some new friends.

When it comes to getting around, Jordan is pretty well-connected. Their transport is reliable and easy to navigate. The streets of Amman and other major cities are lined with yellow taxis. For a more digital approach, rideshare apps like Uber and Careem are available.

If you're looking to travel between cities or to tourist locations, buses are an affordable option. Better yet, you can also rent a car if you prefer to control your itinerary.

Here are some safety tips for transportation;

Always have small change ready for bus fares and taxi rides to avoid any hassle.
Check the condition of the vehicle when renting a car or taking a long taxi ride.
Stick to licensed taxis or trusted rideshare apps to ensure safety and fair pricing.
The fares are generally metered, so no haggling is needed. Just remember to confirm that the meter is on as soon as you start your ride.

Jordan's Must Visit

Jordan’s major tourist spots include the ancient city of Petra, the Dead Sea, and the stunning Wadi Rum. These are not just safe but also accustomed to welcoming tourists from all corners of the globe. They are well-patrolled and equipped with tourist-friendly facilities.

Here are other must-visit spots;

Amman ‐ The capital city combines the old and the new with bustling markets, contemporary art galleries, and some of the region’s best food. Don’t miss the Roman Theatre, the Jordan Museum, and the vibrant nightlife of Rainbow Street.

Aqaba ‐ If you are a fan of sun, sea, and sand, Aqaba is your go-to spot. This resort city on the Red Sea offers excellent snorkelling and diving among colourful coral reefs. It is also a great base for trips to Wadi Rum and Petra.

Jerash ‐ For a glimpse into Roman life, head to Jerash. It is one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. Jerash boasts an impressive array of archways, theatres, and ancient roads. Walking through the ruins will have you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time.

Dana Biosphere Reserve ‐ For nature lovers, Dana offers a stunning escape into the wild. This reserve spans several climatic zones and hosts a diverse range of flora and fauna. A hike through its scenic trails might just have you spotting everything from sand cats to Syrian serins.

Madaba ‐ Madaba is famous for its spectacular Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics. The most notable is the Madaba Map, a 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land. This quiet town has a lovely charm, perfect for exploring on a leisurely afternoon.