How to get around Jordan with kids and family

Rent a car with proper child seats for maximum flexibility, or use private drivers for longer distances. Public transport exists but isn't family-friendly. Most attractions are accessible by car, and driving between major sites takes 1-4 hours.

  1. Rent a car at Queen Alia Airport. Book through Hertz, Avis, or Budget. Request child seats when booking - they cost 8-12 JOD per day. Bring your international driving permit. Manual transmission is standard, automatic costs 15-20 JOD extra daily.
  2. Plan driving distances realistically. Amman to Dead Sea: 1 hour. Amman to Petra: 3 hours. Petra to Wadi Rum: 1.5 hours. Wadi Rum to Aqaba: 1 hour. Build in stops every 90 minutes for kids to stretch.
  3. Use private drivers for long hauls. Hire through your hotel for 80-120 JOD per day with driver. More expensive than rental but eliminates navigation stress and parking hassles at major sites. Drivers speak English and know child-friendly stops.
  4. Navigate Amman carefully with kids. Use Careem or Uber for short trips - both have child seat options. Walking is challenging due to steep hills and limited sidewalks. Taxis charge 3-5 JOD for city trips but most lack proper car seats.
  5. Book accommodations with parking. Hotels in Amman and Petra charge 5-10 JOD per night for parking. Dead Sea resorts include free parking. Wadi Rum camps have designated parking areas. Confirm when booking.
Are car seats required by law in Jordan?
Yes, children under 4 must use car seats and under 10 cannot sit in front. Rental companies provide basic seats but bring your own booster if your child is picky about comfort.
Is it safe to drive in Jordan with kids?
Main highways between tourist sites are well-maintained and safe. Avoid driving in Amman city center - traffic is chaotic and stressful with children. Stick to major routes between Amman, Dead Sea, Petra, and Wadi Rum.
Can we use public buses with young children?
Not recommended. JETT buses between cities lack child restraints and comfort facilities. Local buses in Amman are crowded and don't have proper seating for children with car seats.
What if our child gets carsick on mountain roads?
The road to Petra has some curves but isn't extreme. Keep windows slightly open, pack motion sickness bags, and stop at viewpoints for fresh air breaks. Most kids handle the drives fine with snacks and entertainment.