Journeys: Explore Jordan - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include visiting the ancient ruins of Jerash and Petra, enjoying a women's cooking class and traditional lunch, floating in the Dead Sea, experiencing a 4x4 excursion and night walk in the red-hued desertscapes of Wadi Rum, and attending a lecture from an archaeologist.

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation on this trip includes 6 nights in comfortable local hotels and 1 night in a desert camp. Hotel rooms are typically twin-share with air-conditioning and private bathrooms, and breakfast is included daily. Some hotels may offer additional recreational facilities like swimming pools.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners. Generally, meals are not included when there are various eating options to allow flexibility, but groups often eat together. Your Expedition Leader can suggest local restaurants.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 12.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, meaning it requires an average level of fitness and mobility. Travelers should be able to walk without assistance, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. For example, exploring Petra involves a lot of walking over sand and rocks for an entire day.

• What transportation methods are used during the tour?

  During the trip, you will travel by air-conditioned private minivan for most journeys. A thrilling 4x4 excursion is used for travel to Wadi Rum and the desert camp. Walking is also a significant mode of transport during site explorations.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, optional activities include Petra by Night (17-30 JOD per person), a Turkish Bath (30-45 JOD per person) in Petra, and Dar ne'meh - Weibdeh Optional Visit & Dinner in Amman.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  Travelers must be 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD200,000 coverage). It's strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. Evidence of insurance is required by your leader.

• What is the local currency and how should I handle money?

  The local currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). ATMs are available in main cities and generally accept Visa and Mastercard. It's advisable to carry both. Cash is recommended for situations where ATMs are not accessible, and Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars are easy to exchange. Bring some cash for emergencies, but rely on ATM cards and some cash as the ideal mix. US Dollar notes should be new and in good condition (newer than 1996, no tears or blemishes).

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Jordan?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Jordan visas can be obtained on arrival at land and airport borders for most nationalities for a fee of 40 JOD. It is your responsibility to check current requirements for your specific passport. If departing Jordan by land, a 10 JOD departure tax is required, payable in cash.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, for unforeseen circumstances that might require a change to the planned route. This is a rare occurrence.

• What is the tipping policy?

  Tipping is customary in the Middle East. For ease, your Expedition Leader will collect a 'tipping kitty' at the start of the tour, approximately $64.00 USD per person (excluding the Expedition Leader's tip), to cover tips for group services like restaurant staff, hotel staff, and drivers. Personal tipping for an outstanding Expedition Leader is also appreciated, with $11-13 USD per person per day suggested as a guideline.

• How should I dress to respect local customs?

  When visiting mosques and other religious monuments, modest dress is required, meaning shoulders should be covered, and short shorts or skirts should be avoided. In general, outside of major cities, local dress is more conservative, and it's recommended that both men and women wear loose-fitting clothes with shoulders covered out of respect.

• What health considerations should I be aware of?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water in Jordan. Consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and inoculations well before departure. Protection against typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis, and polio is generally recommended. Carrying a first aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medical requirements is suggested. Note that leaders are prohibited from administering drugs.

• Can solo travelers get their own room?

  Group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement; solo travelers are paired with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Who will be leading the group?

  This National Geographic Journeys trip is accompanied by a National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout, as well as local guides at specific sites. The Expedition Leader's role is to enhance your travel experience, provide information, suggest activities, and introduce you to local culture.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a charge. It is advisable to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry at times.

• What are the general safety considerations for this trip?

  In major cities, use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and mind your personal belongings, similar to anywhere in the world. Using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables is strongly recommended. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. When traveling in a group, your leader can amend the itinerary for safety concerns. During free time, exercise good judgment for optional activities and consider traveling in small groups or taking taxis at night.

• What is Planeterra and how does the tour support local communities?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses, empowering women, granting youth employment, and protecting the environment. This tour includes 'G for Good Moments' such as a visit to the Beit Khayrat Souf women-run café and the Al Safi Community Lunch, which are tour operator-supported initiatives that directly benefit local communities.