Jordan is a captivating country in the heart of the Middle East, rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. When planning your visit to this incredible destination, it is essential to be aware of the things you can and cannot do to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this article, we will explore the must-see attractions and activities, cultural etiquette, and important restrictions to be aware of when traveling to Jordan.
What to do when visiting Jordan: Must-See Attractions and Activities
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Explore the Ancient City of Petra: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Petra is a must-visit attraction in Jordan. Marvel at the intricate rock-cut architecture and take a walk through history in this ancient Nabatean city.
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Float in the Dead Sea: Experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in the salty waters of the Dead Sea. Known for its therapeutic properties, the Dead Sea is a popular destination for relaxation and wellness.
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Discover the Wonders of Wadi Rum: Embark on a desert adventure in the breathtaking Wadi Rum. Explore the vast red sand dunes, enjoy a camel ride, or take a 4x4 jeep tour to witness the stunning landscapes that have captivated visitors for centuries.
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Visit the Amman Citadel: Immerse yourself in Jordan's history by visiting the Amman Citadel, situated on the highest hill in Amman. Explore ancient ruins, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace, while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
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Marvel at the Roman Ruins of Jerash: Step back in time as you wander through the ruins of Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Admire the impressive architecture, including the Oval Plaza, the Temple of Artemis, and the Hadrian's Arch.
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Experience Bedouin Hospitality: Take the opportunity to engage with the local Bedouin communities and experience their warm hospitality. Stay in a traditional Bedouin camp, partake in a traditional meal, and learn about their customs and way of life.
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Taste Authentic Jordanian Cuisine: Indulge in the diverse flavors of Jordanian cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try dishes like Mansaf (a traditional lamb dish), Falafel, Hummus, and Jordan's famous street food, Shawarma.
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Explore the Desert Castles: Discover the fascinating desert castles scattered across Jordan's eastern desert. These beautifully preserved castles, such as Qasr Amra and Qasr Al-Kharana, offer a glimpse into the country's early Islamic architecture and history.
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Hike in the Dana Biosphere Reserve: Nature enthusiasts should not miss the chance to explore the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Embark on a hiking trail through diverse landscapes, spot unique wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views of the dramatic canyons and mountains.
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Dive in the Red Sea: Jordan's coastline along the Red Sea is a hidden gem for diving enthusiasts. Explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter a variety of marine life, and discover underwater treasures in Aqaba, one of the top diving destinations in the region.
Cultural Etiquette: Customs and Practices to Respect in Jordan
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Dress Modestly: Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country, and it is essential to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Both men and women should avoid revealing clothing, and women should consider covering their shoulders and knees.
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Greetings and Politeness: Jordanians value politeness and respect. When meeting someone, it is customary to exchange greetings and shake hands. Use appropriate greetings such as "as-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you) and "marhaba" (hello).
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Respect for Religion: Jordanians hold their religious beliefs dear. When visiting mosques or religious sites, dress appropriately, remove your shoes, and be respectful of any ongoing religious ceremonies. Non-Muslim visitors should avoid entering mosques during prayer times.
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Public Displays of Affection: It is important to note that public displays of affection are generally not acceptable in Jordan. Couples should refrain from kissing, hugging, or holding hands in public, as it is considered impolite.
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Accepting Hospitality: Jordanians are known for their warm hospitality, and it is customary to accept food and drinks when offered. It is considered impolite to refuse, so embrace the opportunity to try traditional dishes and engage in conversations with locals.
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Right Hand for Eating: When dining in Jordan, always use your right hand for eating as the left hand is considered unclean. This is an important cultural practice to be aware of, especially when eating with your hands, as is common for some traditional dishes.
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Photography Etiquette: While photography is generally allowed in Jordan, it is important to be mindful and respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking pictures of people, especially women, and avoid photographing sensitive areas or military installations.
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Ramadan Etiquette: If visiting Jordan during the holy month of Ramadan, be respectful of those who are fasting. Refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours, and avoid playing loud music out of respect for those observing this religious tradition.
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Friday Prayers: Friday is the Islamic holy day in Jordan, and it is customary for Muslims to attend Friday prayers at the mosque. Plan your visits and activities accordingly, as some businesses and public places may have altered opening hours during this time.
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Tipping Customs: Tipping is not obligatory in Jordan, but it is appreciated for good service. A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants, and it is common to tip taxi drivers and hotel staff as well.
Important Restrictions: Things to Avoid When Traveling to Jordan
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Drug Use: It is illegal to use or possess drugs in Jordan, and severe penalties can be imposed if caught. Always adhere to local laws and avoid involvement in any drug-related activities.
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Public Intoxication: Public intoxication is also illegal in Jordan. It is important to be mindful of your alcohol consumption and avoid causing any disturbances or engaging in unruly behavior in public places.
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Political Discussions: It is advisable to avoid engaging in discussions about politics or sensitive topics unless initiated by a local. Respect the Jordanian people's views and be cautious when discussing potentially divisive subjects.
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Disrespecting the Royal Family: Jordanians hold a deep respect and admiration for their royal family. It is important to avoid any disrespectful comments or actions towards the monarchy, as this is considered highly offensive.
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Offensive Behavior: Behave respectfully and avoid any offensive gestures, including pointing with your finger or showing the soles of your feet, as these are seen as disrespectful in Jordanian culture.
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Public Nudity: Public nudity is strictly forbidden in Jordan. Always dress appropriately and avoid any indecent exposure, even in private settings such as beaches or hotel pools.
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Exporting Antiquities: Jordan is home to numerous ancient artifacts and archaeological sites. It is strictly prohibited to export any antiquities without proper permits. Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs and ensure they are legally obtained.
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LGBTQ+ Rights: While not explicitly illegal, homosexuality is generally not widely accepted in Jordanian society. It is advisable to exercise discretion and avoid public displays of affection or discussions about LGBTQ+ rights.
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Wildlife Conservation: Jordan is home to diverse wildlife, including endangered species. It is important to respect the environment and wildlife by not disturbing or harming them in any way. Do not purchase products made from endangered animals or plants.
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Border Restrictions: When traveling to Jordan, be aware of the country's border restrictions and follow the necessary visa requirements. Avoid crossing into neighboring countries without the proper documentation and approvals from relevant authorities.
As you plan your visit to Jordan, keeping these guidelines in mind will ensure that you have a memorable and respectful experience. By exploring the country's fascinating attractions, embracing the local culture, and respecting the customs and restrictions, you can fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Jordan while forging meaningful connections with its people. Enjoy your journey through this captivating land of history, hospitality, and natural beauty.
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