How Safe Is Jordan to Travel?
Jordan is generally safe with low crime rates and world-class cultural sites. Petty theft does occur, though, so travelers should remain wary of potential travel scams like fake antiques, price gouging taxi drivers or taking unwise circuitous routes when travelling here.
Terrorist attacks can strike with no warning and strike at tourist spots or transportation services. Travellers should remain wary in areas near Syria’s border region or refugee camps.
Security
Though theft and crimes such as shoplifting do occur in Jordan, violent instances are far less frequent than in other places. Therefore, it’s essential to keep valuables close and be wary when visiting more populated or touristic spots.
Be wary of travel scams such as fake antiques, price gouging and taxi drivers who quote fils rather than dinars as taxi fares. It is best to agree on a price before entering or request that the driver use their meter.
Avoid regions bordering Syria and Iraq due to their unstable security environments. Be wary when visiting wadis (valleys) during rainy seasons as flash floods are common – there are around 80 wadis in Jordan alone!
Crime
Jordan remains relatively safe despite sharing borders with Syria and Iraq, though terrorist attacks and other crimes occasionally do take place far from tourist sites.
Travelers can safely explore Jordan by taking basic precautions, including carrying an insurance policy which covers medical costs, lost luggage and trip cancellation. HeyMondo offers short and long-term policies with great coverage options available to them.
Travelers visiting Jordan should read both the Department of State’s country information page and CDC page for Jordan as well as local media for breaking news updates. By following these tips, travelers should have an enjoyable and safe visit to its amazing ruins and natural marvels – happy travels!
Taxi Drivers
Jordan may be situated amid turmoil in Syria, Iraq and Palestine but remains welcoming for travelers from around the world. Although terrorist attacks do occasionally take place here, they do not remain commonplace.
Locating yourself is easy thanks to the well-organized bus system and safe walking conditions at night. Taxis are another convenient mode of transportation; just make sure that your driver turns on their meter upon your entry (it is against the law otherwise!) and negotiate on price before setting out.
Scams may be an issue, but only because they’re common: shop owners may try to defraud customers with fake antiques sold as authentic ones and taxi drivers may overcharge or take an indirect route when taking you somewhere. Be wary, though – keep your wits about you and these small scams won’t become an issue!
Uber
Jordan lies within an area of conflict, and terrorist activity remains an active concern. For this reason, the US State Department issued a level two travel advisory warning travelers of increased caution in this destination.
Areas near the Syrian and Iraq borders can be especially hazardous due to cross-border violence, including refugee camps in Zarqa and Rusayfa with higher crime rates like theft and human trafficking.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem have introduced stiff competition into Amman’s yellow taxi industry since their Jordan debuts in 2015. Tensions flared after local drivers massed together at a dirt lot to protest higher taximeter pricing and clear contracts; many still refuse fares if they feel that terms are unfair; therefore it is advised that longer journeys be booked in advance to prevent issues with drivers refusing fares or refusing rides altogether.
Driving
Renting a car in Jordan can be an ideal way to explore the country. But there are certain considerations you should keep in mind while driving here.
Police checkpoints are a very common sight in Jordan; always have your license, passport, and car rental agreement ready in case they ask to see them. Remember to be polite and show respect toward them; they are just doing their jobs!
Jordanians should also be wary of speed bumps. Unfortunately, these unmarked obstacles can be difficult for drivers and pedestrians alike to negotiate when driving across them. Most vehicles will flash their hazards to warn drivers approaching speed bumps – if someone flashes their hazards quickly before hitting one – so slow down!
