Destination: Jordan

When embarking on an Odyssey tour in Jordan, the mode of transport primarily involves coach travel, with occasional use of local transportation such as trains and ferries, as specified in the detailed tour itinerary. While buses serve as the prevalent means of transportation in Jordan due to their affordability, it’s worth noting that they often do not adhere strictly to set schedules. In urban areas like the capital city, Amman, taxis are widely available and convenient, although outside of Amman, taxi meters are typically calibrated in fils rather than dinars, necessitating caution to prevent overpayment. Regrettably, passenger train services are not operational within Jordan, rendering train travel an unavailable option for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes.

In urban settings, Odyssey accommodations typically consist of centrally positioned 3-4 star hotels, which offer convenient access to public transportation. In contrast, when venturing into smaller towns or rural regions, we opt for charming family-operated hotels or guesthouses. For our extended stays, where you remain in one place throughout the tour, we arrange comfortable accommodations in serviced apartments.

Odyssey consistently partners with local guides who possess in-depth regional insights, guaranteeing an authentic experience that delves into the rich history and culture of the destinations you explore.

Jordan spans 91,880 square kilometers, predominantly encompassing a flat desert plateau with over four-fifths of its land characterized by desert terrain. Positioned as a landlocked country, it boasts a 26-kilometer shoreline along the Gulf of Aqaba. To the west, the Great Rift Valley serves as a geographical demarcation separating the East and West Banks of the Jordan River. Notably, this Rift Valley features various geological depressions, with the region surrounding the Dead Sea plunging to approximately 1,410 feet below sea level, marking the Earth’s lowest natural point.

Regarding its climate, Jordan experiences a Mediterranean-style climate, characterized by scorching, arid summers and mild, changeable winters. Rainfall predominantly occurs in the winter months, underscoring the importance of checking weather forecasts and dressing appropriately depending on the time of your visit.

Jordan boasts 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each offering a unique glimpse into its rich history and cultural heritage. Among these sites is Quseir Amra, a desert castle renowned for its impeccably preserved structure adorned with intricate murals and artwork. Another notable site is Um er-Rasas, an archaeological gem showcasing the remains of a fortified Roman camp along with remnants dating back to the Roman, Byzantine, and Early Muslim eras. Additionally, the Wadi Rum Protected Area spans over 74,000 hectares and houses a plethora of ancient rock carvings, inscriptions, and petroglyphs, providing visitors with a fascinating journey through the region’s past.

Jordan hosts a variety of festivals and events annually to honor its rich traditions and cultural heritage. Among them, the Jerash Festival stands out as one of the largest gatherings, taking place every July in Jerash city. This vibrant event attracts a multitude of attendees who flock to witness captivating showcases of music, dance, and literature. Additionally, workshops and seminars are conducted to enrich the experience for participants.

The Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival, held in February, pays homage to the culture of Jordan’s indigenous Bedouin community. This festival provides a platform to showcase and sell the exquisite handicrafts and products crafted by Bedouin artisans on the lively streets of Aqaba.
Furthermore, Muharram holds significant importance in Jordan as it heralds the commencement of the Islamic New Year. This period is embraced with elaborate feasts and joyous dancing, symbolizing a time of jubilation and new beginnings in the country’s cultural tapestry.

• Petra: The True and Surprising History of the Lost City of Stone, by Patrick Auerbach
• The making of Jordan, by Joab B. Eilon
• Lion of Jordan: The Life of King Hussein in War and Peace, by Avi Shlaim
• A Pilgrim’s Guide to The Holy Land: Israel and Jordan (Pilgrim’s Guides), by Raymond Goodburn

Jordan’s culinary landscape reflects a fusion of influences from the wider Levant and historical ties to Turkey and the former Ottoman Empire. Mansaf, the national dish of Jordan, exemplifies this blend, featuring lamb cooked with fermented dried yogurt powder and served alongside rice. Mezze dishes, a staple in Jordanian cuisine, offer a diverse selection of small plates typically served at the onset of multi-course meals. These may include fattoush, a flavorful salad of garden vegetables and pita bread, tabbouleh made with bulgur, tomatoes, parsley, mint, and onions, and hummus, a creamy chickpea puree infused with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.

Tea and coffee play integral roles in Jordanian social gatherings, with coffeehouses serving as vital community hubs across the country. Despite being a predominantly Muslim nation, Jordan does not stigmatize alcohol consumption, as evidenced by arak, an aniseed-flavored alcoholic beverage commonly enjoyed with meals. To combat the country’s sweltering temperatures, a rich variety of fruit juices are produced and savored throughout the year. From refreshing pomegranate and apricot juices to invigorating lime-mint blends, Jordanians have an array of delicious beverages to choose from to beat the heat.

Currently, smartraveller.gov.au cautions travelers to exercise a high level of caution when visiting Jordan. This advisory stems from potential protests in the country triggered by local and regional events. It is advisable to steer clear of demonstrations and crowded assemblies to mitigate exposure to potentially volatile situations. Moreover, border regions adjacent to Syria and Iraq are deemed risky because of the persistent conflicts in these neighboring nations, making it prudent to refrain from journeying to these specific areas.

When traveling abroad, it is essential to bring along a suitable travel adapter. In Jordan, the electricity operates at 230V and 50Hz. The country utilizes various electric plug types such as Types C, D, F, and J plugs, underscoring the importance of having the correct travel adapter on hand to ensure seamless access to power during your stay.