Getting There
Air
You can fly direct to Queen Alia International Airport, 35 km south of Amman, from most major cities in the Middle East and Europe. If you’re coming from elsewhere, you can also go via many South-East Asian capitals. Charter flights also operate to the Red Sea resort of Aqaba.
Sea
Taking a ferry across the Red Sea from Nuweiba in Egypt to Aqaba is a popular option, particularly if you’re on a tour of the Middle East. There’s a more expensive, fast boat (one hour) and a slower, cheaper service (minimum three hours).
Land
Crossing the border from Saudi Arabia is difficult and Iraq not an option. This leaves you with overland entry to Jordan via Syria (not recommended right now) and Israel & the Palestinian Territories. You’ll need a visa beforehand if you’re arriving from the Israel at the King Hussein Bridge. Buses and taxis cross the borders.
Beware that there is a departure tax of 10JD whether you’re leaving by air, land or sea.
Getting Around
Given its size (it takes five hours to travel the length of Jordan) domestic flights aren’t really necessary – though there is a service between Aqaba and Amman. There’s no train service which leaves you with:
Bus
Mini-buses and buses (public and private) are the most common way to travel the country. JETT and Trust International Transport are two private bus companies to try – you’ll need to book a ticket a day in advance.
Car
Chartering a taxi is a good way to see the more inaccessible parts of Jordan such as Wadi Rum, though you’ll have to bargain to get the price down. Otherwise consider hiring a car for travel outside Amman. The biggest hire company in Jordan is Avis. If you’re bringing your own car you’ll need a Carnet de Passage en douane. See the Royal Automobile Club of Jordan.
Bike
You won’t come across many other cyclists in Jordan, especially not in the summer heat. But if you’re keen on travelling Jordan by bike then take comfort in the fact that the distances aren’t huge.
