Is it safe to drive in Jordan?

Yes, but it requires confidence. Avoid night driving and watch for speed bumps, which are often unmarked.

What is the best way to pay for things?

Carry Jordanian Dinar (JOD) in cash. While hotels and larger shops take cards, smaller vendors, markets, and roadside shops rely strictly on cash.

Planning a One-Week Trip to Jordan

To see the highlights in seven days, stick to a loop starting and ending in Amman that hits Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. Renting a car is the most efficient way to navigate the country, as public transport doesn't serve remote tourist sites reliably.

Buy the Jordan Pass before you arrive. Purchase the 'Jordan Explorer' pass online. It covers your visa fee and entry to over 40 sites, including Petra and Jerash. It saves you roughly $60 USD compared to paying for individual site entries and the visa on arrival.
Rent a car for flexibility. Book your rental car in advance from the Amman airport. Driving in Jordan is straightforward once you leave the city center, but stick to the Desert Highway and King's Highway; avoid driving at night due to poor lighting and unexpected road obstacles.
Prioritize your Petra entrance. Petra is massive. Get to the main gate at 6:00 AM sharp when it opens. This allows you to walk through the Siq before the tour buses arrive at 9:00 AM.
Download offline maps. Google Maps works well for navigation, but download the Jordan region for offline use before you leave your hotel Wi-Fi, as reception drops off significantly in the southern desert canyons.

Is it safe to drive in Jordan?: Yes, but it requires confidence. Avoid night driving and watch for speed bumps, which are often unmarked.
What is the best way to pay for things?: Carry Jordanian Dinar (JOD) in cash. While hotels and larger shops take cards, smaller vendors, markets, and roadside shops rely strictly on cash.