Jordan is a destination of choice for lovers of history, culture and breathtaking scenery. Before you set off for this magnificent country, it's essential to prepare well to ensure a successful, hassle-free stay. Here's everything you need to know about practical advice, vaccinations and visa requirements.
Practical advice for your stay in Jordan
To make the most of your trip to Jordan, there are a few essential recommendations to follow, particularly with regard to the weather, safety, sightseeing, etc.
Weather and ideal time to visit Jordan
Jordan's climate is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The best time to travel to Jordan is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)). During these seasons, temperatures are pleasant and make it possible to enjoy the various activities and visits without suffering from the intense heat or sometimes harsh cold that characterise summer and winter respectively.
Safety and health recommendations
Generally speaking, Jordan is considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to follow certain safety instructions to avoid travel glitches :
- Find out about the country's security situation and follow the advice of the local authorities.
- Register your stay with the French consulate or embassy.
- Be vigilant in busy tourist areas.
- Do not carry ostentatious valuables (jewellery, expensive electronic equipment, etc.)
- Take out travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation.
As far as health measures are concerned, it's important to check whether you need any vaccinations before you leave. We'll look at this in more detail in the next section.
Customs regulations
If you are planning to bring certain items or equipment with you on your trip to Jordan, it is worth knowing the customs rules and regulations to avoid any nasty surprises when you arrive in the country. The main restrictions concern :
- Weapons and explosives (prohibited without prior authorisation).
- Narcotics (prohibited in any quantity).
- Religious objects, books or publications that undermine religions.
- Alcohol imports are limited to two litres per person.
- Cash or monetary instruments in excess of 15,000 $ USD must be declared.
Do not hesitate to consult the Jordanian customs website for further information on the regulations in force.
Vaccinations and medical precautions
To travel to Jordan, it's essential to make sure your vaccinations are up to date. No vaccinations are compulsory for tourists, but some are recommended to avoid any risk of infection:
- Typhoid fever vaccination: This infectious disease is transmitted by ingesting contaminated water or food. Vaccination is often recommended for stays in unhygienic conditions.
- Vaccination against hepatitis A: This is strongly recommended because of the high risk of transmission. It is transmitted through contaminated food or drinking water.
- Vaccination against hepatitis B: Although the risk is low to medium for travellers, it is recommended for those planning long stays, particularly expatriates. This virus is transmitted sexually and by blood.
- Rabies vaccination: This vaccination is especially recommended for travellers planning to stay in remote rural areas where they may come into contact with wild animals.
Consult your doctor for advice specific to your situation and to find out about any other medical precautions you should take before leaving, such as purchasing anti-malarial treatment or taking out travel insurance to cover medical expenses.
How to obtain a Jordanian visa
To enter Jordan, French tourists need a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of return and a visa.
You can apply online before your departure. This procedure can take several days and requires you to fill in a form and provide certain documents. The individual visa is valid for 30 days in Jordan.
To make it easier to enter Jordan, you can also opt for the "Jordan Pass" . This ticket includes the entry visa as well as access to more than 40 tourist sites, including Petra, the Dead Sea and the Wadi Rum desert. The Jordan Pass can also be purchased online.
Holders of diplomatic passports are exempt from visa requirements for their stay in Jordan.
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