The Dead Sea — sitting at 430 meters below sea level — is the lowest point on Earth and one of the most surreal natural phenomena you'll ever experience. Its hypersaline waters (roughly 34% salinity, nearly 10 times that of the ocean) make it impossible to sink, creating the famous "floating" effect that draws visitors from around the world.

Located just 60 kilometers southwest of Amman, the Dead Sea is one of the most accessible day trips in Jordan. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Getting There

The drive from Amman takes approximately one hour via the well-maintained highway that descends dramatically from 900 meters above sea level to 430 meters below. The landscape transforms from urban to desert to dramatic rift valley — it's one of the most visually striking drives in the Middle East.

What to Expect: The Floating Experience

The sensation of floating in the Dead Sea is truly unlike anything else. The high mineral concentration makes the water incredibly dense — you'll bob on the surface like a cork. It's physically impossible to swim normally; instead, you gently recline and float effortlessly.

Rules for Safe Floating

• Never splash or submerge your face. The salt content will cause extreme stinging in your eyes, mouth, and any open cuts or freshly shaved skin.
• Limit your time in the water to 15–20 minutes. Prolonged exposure can irritate your skin.
• Enter the water slowly and carefully. The seabed can be rocky with sharp salt crystals.
• Rinse off thoroughly with fresh water immediately after exiting. All public beaches and resorts have outdoor showers.

The Famous Dead Sea Mud

The mineral-rich black mud found along the shoreline has been prized for its therapeutic and cosmetic properties for thousands of years. Cleopatra herself reportedly sent servants to collect Dead Sea cosmetics. Apply a generous layer, let it dry in the sun for 10–15 minutes, then rinse off. Your skin will feel remarkably smooth afterward.

Best Beaches & Resorts

• Kempinski Hotel Ishtar: Five-star luxury with private beach access, multiple pools, and a world-class spa. Day passes are available.
• Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa: Excellent facilities, family-friendly pools, and a full-service spa with Dead Sea mineral treatments.
• Mövenpick Resort & Spa: Beautiful gardens, a stunning infinity pool overlooking the Dead Sea, and one of the region's best spas.
• Amman Beach (Public): The most affordable option with basic facilities, showers, and a small café. Entry tickets are available at the gate.

Combine Your Dead Sea Trip

The Dead Sea area offers several nearby attractions worth visiting:

• Ma'in Hot Springs: Natural thermal waterfalls cascading down canyon walls into warm pools. Just 30 minutes from the main resort area.
• Bethany Beyond the Jordan: The UNESCO-listed baptism site of Jesus Christ, located on the Jordan River near the Dead Sea's northern shore.
• Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve: A dramatic canyon hike through knee-deep water — often called "Jordan's Grand Canyon." Open March through October.
• Mount Nebo: The biblical site where Moses viewed the Promised Land. Clear days offer views of Jerusalem, Jericho, and the Jordan Valley.

Queen Alia International Airport (IATA: AMM) is Jordan's main international airport and the primary gateway for travelers arriving in the country. Located approximately 32 kilometers south of Amman's city center, it serves as the hub for Royal Jordanian Airlines and connects Jordan to over 80 destinations worldwide.

Whether you're visiting Jordan for the first time or returning for another adventure, this guide covers everything you need for a smooth arrival — from immigration and baggage to your first transfer into Amman or beyond.

Arriving at Queen Alia Airport

Immigration & Visa

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. The process is straightforward:

1. Purchase your visa stamp at the bank counter before the immigration desks. The fee is payable in cash (JOD, USD, EUR) or by credit card.
2. Alternatively, purchase a Jordan Pass online before your trip at jordanpass.jo. It includes your visa fee plus entry to Petra and 40+ other attractions throughout the country — saving you both money and time in the immigration queue.
3. Hand your passport with the visa stamp to the immigration officer. Processing typically takes 2–5 minutes.

SIM Cards & Connectivity

Several mobile operators have counters in the arrivals hall:

• Zain Jordan: The largest network with the best coverage nationwide, including remote areas like Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea.
• Orange Jordan: Competitive data plans with good urban coverage.
• Umniah: Budget-friendly option suitable for shorter stays.

Tourist SIM cards with generous data allowances are available at affordable rates. Bring your passport — it's required for SIM registration. Free airport Wi-Fi is also available throughout the terminal.

Currency Exchange

Jordan's currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD), pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate. Exchange counters and ATMs are available in the arrivals hall, but rates at the airport tend to be slightly less favorable than those in Amman's city center. Our recommendation: exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs, then use city ATMs for better rates.

Getting from the Airport to Amman

Departing from Queen Alia Airport

For departures, arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before international flights (3 hours during peak season). The airport has a modern duty-free shopping area, restaurants, prayer rooms, and comfortable lounges. Security and check-in procedures are efficient but thorough.

Useful Airport Information

• Airport Code: AMM (IATA) / OJAI (ICAO)
• Distance to Amman: 32 km (~35 min by car)
• Distance to Dead Sea: 55 km (~50 min by car)
• Distance to Petra: 230 km (~3 hours by car)
• Distance to Aqaba: 325 km (~3.5 hours by car)
• Airport Contact: +962 6 401 0700

Wadi Rum isn't just a desert — it's a 720-square-kilometer expanse of sandstone and granite mountains, red sand dunes, ancient petroglyphs, and silence so profound it feels sacred. Known as the "Valley of the Moon," this UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Jordan has captivated explorers for centuries, from the Nabataeans to T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) to modern-day filmmakers (The Martian, Dune, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker were all filmed here).

Getting to Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is located approximately 60 kilometers east of Aqaba and 110 kilometers south of Petra. The main entry point is the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, accessible via a well-paved highway from either direction.

What to Do in Wadi Rum

Jeep Tours

The most popular way to explore Wadi Rum is by 4x4 pickup truck, driven by a local Bedouin guide. Tours range from 2 hours to full-day excursions, covering major landmarks including Lawrence's Spring, Khazali Canyon (with ancient Thamudic inscriptions), the natural rock bridges, and the towering Seven Pillars of Wisdom.

Camel Rides

Experience the desert the way Bedouins have for millennia. Short camel rides around the visitor center area last about an hour, while longer treks can cover half a day of exploration through the sand valleys.

Hot Air Balloon Rides

For a truly unforgettable perspective, take a sunrise hot air balloon flight over Wadi Rum. The aerial views of the red desert stretching to the horizon are extraordinary. Flights typically last about an hour and must be booked well in advance.

Hiking & Scrambling

Numerous trails range from easy walks to challenging rock scrambles. Some highlights include climbing to the top of Um Ad Dami (Jordan's highest peak at 1,854 meters), the Burdah Rock Bridge hike, and sunset walks among the dunes.

Stargazing

With minimal light pollution, Wadi Rum offers some of the clearest night skies in the world. The Milky Way is visible to the naked eye, and on clear nights, you can see thousands of stars, planets, and even occasional meteor showers. Many camps provide cushions and blankets for comfortable stargazing.

Glamping: Overnight in the Desert

Spending at least one night in Wadi Rum is highly recommended. The desert transforms at sunset and sunrise, offering experiences impossible to capture on a day trip. Options range from basic Bedouin tent camps to luxurious "glamping" bubbles with private bathrooms, king-sized beds, and glass walls for stargazing from your bed.

What to Bring

• Layers — desert temperatures can swing 20+ degrees between day and night
• Closed-toe shoes for hiking and scrambling
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime
• A warm jacket or fleece for evenings (especially October through April)
• Camera with extra batteries (chargers aren't always available in camps)
• Cash for tips and small purchases (cards rarely accepted in the desert)

Amman, Jordan's capital and largest city, is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern Arab culture. Built across 19 hills (or "jabals"), the city offers a layered experience — Roman ruins sit alongside sleek contemporary galleries, traditional souks flow into trendy neighborhoods, and some of the Middle East's best food is served in both humble street stalls and upscale restaurants.

Top Attractions

The Citadel (Jabal Al-Qal'a)

Perched on the highest hill in Amman, the Citadel is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on Earth. Key highlights include the Temple of Hercules (with its massive column remnants), the Umayyad Palace complex, and the Jordan Archaeological Museum. The panoramic views of the city from here are spectacular, especially at sunset.

The Roman Theatre

This remarkably well-preserved 6,000-seat amphitheatre was built during the reign of Antoninus Pius (138–161 CE) and is still used for cultural events today. Adjacent to it are two small museums: the Folklore Museum and the Museum of Popular Traditions.

Rainbow Street

The heart of Amman's cultural scene. This lively street in the Jabal Amman neighborhood is lined with cafés, bookshops, art galleries, and restaurants with rooftop terraces. It's the perfect area for an afternoon stroll or an evening out. Don't miss Wild Jordan Center at the end of the street for organic food with views of downtown.

The Jordan Museum

Jordan's national museum showcases the country's cultural heritage from prehistoric times to the present. Highlights include the Ain Ghazal statues (among the oldest human statues ever discovered, dating to 7250 BC) and Dead Sea Scrolls fragments.

King Abdullah Mosque

The blue-domed mosque is one of Amman's most recognizable landmarks. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome (appropriate dress required), and the interior is impressive with its vast prayer hall and Ottoman-inspired design.

Where to Eat: The Best of Amman's Food Scene

Traditional Jordanian

• Hashem Restaurant (Downtown): A legendary falafel and hummus institution operating since 1952. Simple, unpretentious, and phenomenally good. King Abdullah II himself has dined here.
• Sufra Restaurant: Beautiful Ottoman-era house serving authentic Jordanian cuisine — mansaf, musakhan, maglouba — with a garden terrace overlooking downtown.
• Tawaheen Al-Hawa: Upscale Jordanian dining with live music and traditional decor. Famous for its mansaf (the national dish of lamb cooked in dried yogurt).

Modern & International

• Fakhreldin: Fine-dining Lebanese and Levantine cuisine in a beautifully restored 1920s villa. Consistently rated among the region's best restaurants.
• Shams El Balad: Farm-to-table brunch spot in Jabal Amman using locally sourced organic ingredients.
• Baba Bahia: Trendy café in Abdoun with excellent coffee and brunch. Popular with Amman's younger crowd.

Street Food You Can't Miss

• Knafeh: Sweet cheese pastry soaked in sugar syrup — visit Habibah Sweets downtown for the best version
• Shawarma: Try Reem Al-Bawadi or any of the packed shops along Mecca Street
• Fresh juice: Street vendors throughout downtown press fresh orange, pomegranate, and sugarcane juice at very affordable prices

Neighborhoods to Explore

• Jabal Amman (1st Circle area): Art galleries, boutique shops, and Rainbow Street. The cultural heart of the city.
• Jabal Al-Weibdeh: Amman's bohemian quarter with independent cafés, the National Gallery of Fine Arts, and Darat al Funun art complex.
• Downtown (Al-Balad): The bustling commercial center with traditional souks, gold shops, spice markets, and the Roman Theatre.
• Abdoun: Upscale neighborhood with international restaurants, luxury hotels, and designer boutiques.

Practical Tips for Amman

• Friday is the weekend. Many shops in downtown close on Fridays. However, malls and restaurants in West Amman remain open.
• Tipping: Around 10% is customary in restaurants. Small tips are appreciated by taxi drivers and service staff.
• Dress code: Amman is relatively liberal, but modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is respectful, especially in downtown and near mosques.
• Safety: Amman is one of the safest capital cities in the Middle East. Street crime is rare, and locals are famously hospitable to visitors.

Whether you're arriving in Jordan by land from the north or west, understanding the border crossing procedures can save you significant time and stress. Jordan has three major land border crossings, and each has its own procedures, hours, and quirks. In this guide, we focus on the two most commonly used crossings by international travelers.

Sheikh Hussein Bridge (Northern Border)

Located in the Jordan Valley approximately 90 kilometers north of Amman, Sheikh Hussein is the main northern border crossing between Jordan and Israel/Palestine. It connects to the Beit She'an crossing on the Israeli side.

Key Information

• Operating Hours: Sunday–Thursday 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Friday–Saturday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Visa on Arrival: Yes — available for most nationalities
• Jordan Pass: Accepted and covers the visa fee
• Processing Time: Typically 30–60 minutes during normal periods; up to 2 hours during peak times
• Distance to Amman: Approximately 90 km (1.5 hours by car)

King Hussein Bridge / Allenby Bridge (Western Border)

Located approximately 57 kilometers west of Amman, King Hussein Bridge (also known as Allenby Bridge) connects Jordan to the West Bank. This is the main crossing for travelers coming from Jerusalem and the Palestinian territories.

Important Note

Unlike Sheikh Hussein, the King Hussein Bridge is not considered an international border crossing. This means:

• You cannot obtain a visa on arrival at this crossing
• You must already have a valid Jordanian visa or a Jordan Pass
• If you're visiting Jordan for the first time, enter via Queen Alia Airport or Sheikh Hussein first, then use King Hussein Bridge for return trips

Key Information

• Operating Hours: Sunday–Thursday 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday–Saturday 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Processing Time: Highly variable — 1–3 hours depending on volume and security conditions
• Shuttle Bus: A shuttle bus operates between the Jordanian and Israeli sides (no pedestrian crossing allowed)
• Distance to Amman: Approximately 57 km (1 hour by car)

When planning a trip to Jordan, one of the most important decisions you'll make is how to get around. While rental cars, public buses, and ride-hailing apps are all options, there's a strong case that none of them can match the experience, safety, and convenience of a private chauffeur service.

Here's why more and more travelers — from solo adventurers to families and corporate groups — are choosing this approach for their Jordan journey.

1. Navigate with Confidence

Jordan's road network is generally well-maintained, but driving conditions can be unpredictable. Speed limits are loosely observed, lane discipline varies, and signage can be inconsistent outside of Amman. Road conditions in remote areas near Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and mountain regions require experienced handling. A professional chauffeur who drives these routes daily removes all uncertainty from the equation.

2. Maximize Your Time

Jordan packs an incredible amount of diversity into a relatively small area — but distances between major attractions are significant. Amman to Petra is 3+ hours. The Dead Sea to Aqaba is 3+ hours. With a private driver, these transfers become productive or restful time rather than stressful driving shifts. Read, nap, plan your next stop, or simply enjoy the scenery.

3. Door-to-Door Luxury

From the moment you land at Queen Alia Airport, your chauffeur is waiting. No taxi queues, no meter negotiations, no language barriers. The same vehicle and driver can accompany you throughout your entire trip — from airport arrival to Amman hotels, to the Dead Sea, to Petra, to Wadi Rum, and back again. Your chauffeur becomes your travel companion, navigation expert, and local insider.

4. Local Knowledge You Won't Find Online

A good chauffeur is more than a driver — they're a cultural ambassador. Seattle Limo chauffeurs know the best rest stops, the scenic routes worth taking, the roadside restaurants where locals actually eat, and the small details that transform a good trip into an extraordinary one. Need a SIM card recommendation? Wondering which entrance to Petra is less crowded? Your driver knows.

5. Safety & Peace of Mind

All Seattle Limo vehicles are late-model, meticulously maintained, and equipped with modern safety features. Our chauffeurs are professionally trained, licensed, and vetted. Full insurance coverage, 24/7 operational support, and real-time vehicle tracking give you (and your family back home) complete peace of mind.

6. Flexibility No Tour Bus Can Offer

Want to stop for an unexpected photo opportunity? Spend an extra hour at Petra? Skip a planned stop and head straight to dinner? With a private chauffeur, your itinerary adapts to you — not the other way around. There's no group schedule, no waiting for other passengers, and no fixed routes.