Top DON'Ts for Visiting Jordan & Petra: Essential Travel Tips

Jordan Travel Essentials: What NOT to Do

• 🧻 Don't expect toilet paper everywhere; Jordanians often use water hoses by toilets. If you use toilet paper, do not flush it but place it in the bin.
• 🏨 While hotels are good, don't underestimate the need for multiple days in Petra; it's a vast complex that can't be fully explored in one day.
• 🚶 Don't skip getting an official guide for Petra; they significantly enhance the historical and cultural understanding of the site.
• 📸 Don't forget a backup battery for your camera or phone, as you'll take many photos and videos.
• 🏛️ Don't expect to go inside the Treasury in Petra; it's for external viewing only.

Petra Specific Advice

• ☀️ Don't sleep in; arrive early to avoid the intense afternoon heat and large tour groups, especially around noon.
• 🗓️ Avoid peak season (July/August) if possible, as it's the hottest and most crowded time; spring and fall offer a better experience.
• 🗺️ Don't be deceived by Petra's maps; the site is enormous, and a single day is insufficient for thorough exploration.
• 🕯️ If visiting on a Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday, don't miss 'Petra at Night', a unique experience with candles, though not a light show.
• ⬆️ For the view from above the Treasury, be aware of the strenuous steps; assess your fitness before attempting the climb.
• 🐎 Don't assume horse rides go far; they typically only cover the initial part to the main canyon entrance, and tipping is expected.
• 👟 Don't forget good walking shoes; you'll be doing a lot of hiking on uneven terrain.
• 🛂 Don't forget your passport when entering Petra, as it's required for ticket scanning.
• 🗣️ Learn 'La shran' (no thank you) to politely decline persistent offers from vendors and guides.
• 💰 Don't believe all promises from sellers; tipping is almost always involved, even if not initially stated.
• 🏞️ Don't think Petra is just the Treasury; explore other areas like the theater, monastery, tombs, and side trails.

Exploring Beyond Petra

• 🏜️ Don't limit your Jordan trip to just Petra; explore Wadi Rum for desert landscapes, Jerash for Roman ruins, and Aqaba for coastal experiences.
• 🚗 For Wadi Rum, don't show up without a booked tour; pre-booking is essential, especially during busy seasons.
• 🚶‍♀️ Don't walk and film simultaneously on uneven Roman roads to avoid twisting an ankle.
• 💳 Don't get the Jordan Pass if only visiting Petra for a short time; it may not be cost-effective. However, it's highly recommended for longer explorations.
• 🌃 Don't drive at night in Jordan due to potential hazards like animals on the road and poor lighting.
• 🛣️ When driving, don't be surprised if locals use the shoulder as another lane; be accommodating when others pass.
• ☀️ Always bring sunblock and a hat; the sun can be intense, especially at archaeological sites.
• 🧥 Don't forget something warm, even in summer, as evenings and desert areas can get chilly.
• 💰 Don't forget to tip waiters (around 10%) and guides (around 10% of tour cost) in restaurants and for services.

Dead Sea and Food Tips

• 🌊 At the Dead Sea, don't shave or wax beforehand; it will sting intensely.
• 🏊 Don't dunk your head, dive, or splash others in the Dead Sea due to its high salt content, which can cause burning and sickness.
• 👙 Don't wear your favorite swimsuit or jewelry to the Dead Sea, as the salt can ruin them.
• 🍲 Don't expect lunch at noon; Jordanians typically eat lunch around 3 PM, with dinner being a smaller meal later.
• 🫒 Don't be concerned about the love for olive oil; it's a staple, often enjoyed with bread and za'atar.