Although Jordan is a small country in the Middle East, it is big when it comes to history, culture, hospitality, and unique opportunities to consider when choosing your next adventure around the globe. It is usually overlooked by regular travelers but is always one of the most anticipated journeys for experienced ones. No matter your experience, Jordan is a worthwhile destination to add to your bucket list.

That said, like any other place there are certain things you should know before you go. Below, you will find the necessary information about visiting Jordan regarding choosing the best Hiking Spots, photography permissions, dressing respectfully, drinkable water, the popularity of Shisha, and more. Read on and get ready for adventures in Jordan!

1.Choosing the Best Hiking Spots in Jordan

To visit Jordan is to experience the most beautiful and historical landscapes of the Middle East. It is ideal for hikers who are looking for something new but not too challenging. However, there are few things you must consider before planning your trip. If you want to explore and hike in the best spots in Jordan, here are some of the options you can choose from:

• Petra: Petra is the capital of Jordan, and it is also referred to as “The Rose Red City.” It is a small city with a population of about 80,000 people but is famous for its historical significance in the Middle East. The most popular hiking route is from Petra to Wadi Musa.
• Wadi Rum: This is one of the most commonly chosen hiking spots by travelers. It is a remote desert region that is known for its beautiful red sandstone mountains.
• Dead Sea: If you want to experience some natural wonder while exploring the beautiful scenery of Jordan, consider hiking in the Dead Sea. It might be a bit tricky to get there due to the lack of public transport, but it will not disappoint you when you finally reach it. The Dead Sea offers an excellent view of the surrounding desert landscape.
• Grand Canyon: This canyon is not as deep or vast as the Grand Canyon in the US, but it is a popular hiking spot among travelers because of its unique landscape and beautiful views. It is located in the southern part of the country.
• Umm ar-Rasas: it is a Jordanian site recognized by UNESCO due to the ruins dated back to Byzantine, Roman, and early Muslim periods. There are different trails that you can choose from depending on the level of difficulty and your abilities.
• Dana: This location is ideal for those who are looking for a relaxing hike with amazing views. It is a popular hiking spot among amateur hikers thanks to its relatively straightforward trails.

2. Photography Permissions in Jordan

Although Jordan is not as famous for its tourist attractions as other neighboring countries, it is pretty popular among visitors interested in history and culture. There are many historical sites that will make you feel like you are traveling back in time. Some of these exciting places include Petra, Amman Citadel, and Jerash. Since photography is prohibited at some archaeological sites, remember the following information below:

Tourists are required to have special permits to bring cameras into archaeological sites. You will not be allowed inside if you do not have it. To obtain one, you must have official documents proving that you are a professional photographer.

Be sure to have your camera ready before entering an archaeological site since you will be asked to show your documents for authorization. Additionally, only take photos from designated areas and avoid going too close to the ruins since they might get damaged by your presence.

3. Dressing Respectfully in Jordan

Jordanians are quite conservative when it comes to dressing codes, especially when they are around foreigners. It’s important to understand some of their traditions and customs so that you can dress appropriately as well wherever you go.

Some areas require women to cover their hair and wear long skirts or pants while covering their arms to below their elbows. Men should also wear long pants or long skirts and keep their arms covered. Avoid wearing clothes that reveal your body or head coverings that do not match your gender.

Always keep in mind that showing too much skin or wearing provocative clothing may cause an adverse reaction from locals, especially if they see you with other tourists or Westerners who are not appropriately dressed.

4. Drinking Water in Jordan

Before drinking water anywhere in Jordan, make sure it is drinkable by following these simple guidelines:

• Avoid drinking water that comes from the tap.
• Always drink bottled water that has an expiration date.
• Do not consume any ice cubes in mixed drinks since they might have been made with tap water.
• Drinks such as sodas and fruit juices are safe to drink even if they were made with tap water or ice cubes.
• If you want to be 100% sure that the water is safe, bring a water purifier with you.
• Avoid eating veggies that were washed in tap water.

5. Shisha in Jordan

Shisha is very popular among teenagers and young adults in Jordan. It is a traditional Middle Eastern tobacco pipe that is used for smoking flavored tobacco. You can buy a shisha set in most small shops or even from street vendors. However, you must keep in mind that shisha is illegal for children under the age of 18, which means you will be asked to show identification if you are stopped by the police.

6. Traveling in Jordan

Jordan has a good public transportation system with buses and taxis that are easy to use. However, there are also some things to remember when riding public transportation:

• Only use official taxis. Avoid using private cars.
• Carry your passport with you at all times.
• Always pay the exact fare when traveling in taxis.
• Carry small notes because taxi drivers do not always have change.
• Get familiar with the city map before boarding the bus to know where to get off.

Jordan is one of the most exciting countries to visit in the Middle East, especially if you want to experience something different. A part from its historical monuments and natural wonders, Jordan has several things to offer, including food and drinks, hiking spots, and local customs that you will surely enjoy when traveling there. 

However, it is vital to keep in mind the different traditions and customs of the locals so that you will be respectful and undisturbed during your entire stay. Thus, make sure to take the necessary precautions and follow our guidelines when choosing your next destination.

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