Pilgrimage Leisure

Jordan

Where Stone tells the story

🌍 Middle East / Jordan
💰 Jordanian Dinar
Best: Mar-May, Sep-Nov
💬 Arabic; English
🕐

Jordan is a land of biblical history, ancient civilizations, desert beauty, and deep spiritual meaning. From the sacred view of Mount Nebo to the mosaics of Madaba, from the Jordan River to the rose-colored city of Petra, each destination offers travelers a meaningful connection to history, Scripture, and the landscapes of the Holy Land.

This journey is designed not only for sightseeing, but also for reflection. Travelers will walk through places connected to Moses, the Baptism of Jesus, early Christian communities, Roman and Byzantine history, and the living culture of the Jordanian people. Each stop invites travelers to slow down, observe carefully, and appreciate the faith, history, and beauty that have shaped this region for centuries.

This handbook has been prepared as a helpful travel companion throughout the journey. It important provides information about travel documents, packing, weather, clothing, safety, meals, hotels, communication, and local customs so travelers can prepare well and enjoy the trip with comfort, respect, and peace of mind.

Travelers are encouraged to review this handbook carefully before departure. Good preparation will help the journey feel smoother, more organized, and more meaningful at every destination.

Documents & Visa

Travelers must bring their original passport, valid for at least 6 months after the end date of the trip. A Passport Card is not valid for international air travel.

Jordan requires travelers to meet entry requirements based on nationality, passport type, and current government regulations. US citizens generally need a tourist visa to enter Jordan. Depending on current rules, a visa may be available upon arrival at major entry points, or travelers may be able to apply through Jordan's e-visa system before travel.

Green Card holders and travelers who are not US citizens may have different visa requirements depending on the passport they hold. A US Green Card does not automatically replace a visa if the traveler's passport requires one.

Carnival US will provide guidance based on the group route and the latest entry requirements before departure. Travelers should follow the final instructions from Carnival US and official sources.

Travelers should take photos of their passport, visa or entry approval, flight itinerary, travel insurance, hotel list, and emergency contact information. Save copies on the phone/cloud and share one copy with a trusted family member.

Do not place passports, cash, bank cards, medications, or important documents in checked luggage.

Important: If missing documents prevent a traveler from departing or entering Jordan, Carnival US is not responsible, and the standard tour cancellation policy will still apply.

Luggage

Each traveler is generally allowed to bring:

One (1) checked bag

One (1) carry-on bag

One (1) personal item

Specific baggage rules may vary depending on the airline listed on the ticket.

Checked baggage should include clothing, shoes, toiletries, liquids, and items not needed during the flight. Travelers should pack light and neatly because the Jordan journey may include hotel changes, desert areas, walking through archaeological sites, uneven ground, stairs, and long outdoor visits.

Do not place important documents, passports, cash, bank cards, jewelry, or valuable items in checked baggage. These items should always be kept with the traveler.

Carry-on baggage should include passport, visa or entry documents if applicable, flight information, travel insurance, money, bank cards, phone, charger, medication, one extra set of clothing, and a light jacket or scarf.

Power banks must always be packed in carry-on baggage and must not be placed in checked baggage.

Travelers should bring enough personal medication for the full journey, including prescription medication and common medicine such as headache medicine, digestive medicine, allergy medicine, motion sickness medicine, cold medicine, bandages, and personal health items.

Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended. Petra, Mount Nebo, Madaba, Amman Citadel, and other historical sites may include stone paths, stairs, sand, slopes, and uneven ground.

A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, scarf, and refillable water bottle are helpful for outdoor areas, especially Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea region.

Hotels

Hotels used by Carnival US during the journey are arranged according to the route and travel route. Hotels in major areas such as Amman and the Dead Sea may be more modern, while hotels near pilgrimage or archaeological regions may be simpler and focused on comfort and practicality.

Hotel check-in is usually between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Hotels will try to accommodate early check-in when possible. However, if rooms are not ready, travelers may store their luggage at the hotel and continue with the program.

Hotel check-out is usually between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, depending on the hotel.

Before leaving the room, travelers should carefully check the safe, drawers, nightstands, outlets, bathroom, closet, and luggage area. Please make sure no passport, cash, jewelry, medicine, charger, or personal item is left behind.

Do not leave passports, money, jewelry, or valuable items in visible places inside the room.

Many hotels use keycards to open room doors, activate electricity, or access elevators. In some hotels, the keycard must be inserted into a slot near the door to turn on the lights and power outlets.

Hotel bathrooms may include bathtubs with high sides. Travelers should be careful when stepping in and out to avoid slipping.

If travelers need daily room cleaning, fresh towels, toiletries, or assistance, they may contact housekeeping, the front desk, or the tour guide.

Travelers should prepare personal toiletries, medication, tissues, sunscreen, lip balm, bandages, ointment, vitamins, and a pen for filling out forms.

Flights & Airport

Jordan's main international gateway is Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), located near Amman.

Carnival US will send travelers the flight route and meeting information by email before departure. This document includes flight details and ticket information, but it is not a boarding pass.

Travelers should arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before an international flight. If the ticket includes a codeshare flight, travelers should check in with the airline listed as the operating carrier or as stated in the final flight email.

If seat assignments or flight segments are missing from the electronic ticket, the airline may update the information closer to departure.

If travelers need special meals, child meals, wheelchair assistance, or other airline services, please contact Carnival US as early as possible. Requests are subject to airline availability and approval.

When the airplane lands in Jordan, travelers should check all personal belongings before leaving the aircraft. After exiting the plane, proceed through immigration, collect checked luggage, and follow the tour guide's flag or meeting instructions to avoid getting separated from the group.

If travelers do not see the tour guide, driver, or group at the airport or meeting point, they should not leave the area on their own. Please call the phone number provided in the final confirmation email from Carnival US.

Important Note: Travelers should not say words related to aviation security threats, such as “bomb” or “explosive,” in any language while at the airport, during baggage check-in, security screening, or on the airplane. Such words may cause serious delays, security questions, or legal consequences.

US Customs & Border

When returning to the United States, travelers will go through US Customs and Border Protection inspection at the first US airport of entry.

US citizens and permanent residents who have been abroad for more than two days may generally return to the United States with up to $800 worth of goods duty-free, as long as the items are for personal use and accompanying the traveler upon return.

For travelers who bring back more goods, a flat duty rate of 3% may apply to the next $1,000 worth of purchases.

Travelers should keep all purchase receipts in case US Customs officers request a declaration upon return to the United States.

Travelers must declare food, plants, seeds, medicine, large amounts of cash, and valuable items when required. Certain fresh fruits, meats, plants, seeds, and agricultural products may be restricted or prohibited.

Money & Payment

Jordan uses the Jordanian Dinar, written as JOD or sometimes shown as JD.

1 Jordanian Dinar (JOD / JD) ≈ 1.41 USD

Exchange rates may change depending on the time of travel. Travelers should check the current exchange rate before departing.

Visa and MasterCard are accepted at many hotels, larger restaurants, tourist shops, and major service locations. American Express and Discover may be less commonly accepted.

Travelers should still carry some cash in Jordanian Dinars, especially in smaller denominations, for bottled water, tips, restrooms, small souvenirs, local markets, churches, small shops, or places that may not accept cards.

Before departing, travelers should notify their bank and credit card companies that they will be traveling to Jordan. This helps prevent cards from being blocked or temporarily suspended due to international transactions.

ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, but fees may apply depending on the traveler's bank and card type.

Do not exchange money with strangers on the street. If travelers need to exchange money or withdraw cash, they should use reputable exchange offices, banks, ATMs, hotel guidance, or instructions from the tour guide.

Cash should be divided and stored in more than one safe place. Do not keep all cash, passport, and credit cards in the same bag or wallet.

Tax Return

For this section, the better term is Tax Refund / Tax-Free Shopping.

Jordan offers tax refund options for eligible tourists and non-residents when purchases are made from registered shops within the official tax-free network.

To request a tax refund, travelers should ask the store at the time of purchase if the item qualifies for tax-free shopping. Travelers should keep the original receipt, invoice, stamped tax-free form, passport, and purchased items easily accessible.

At departure, travelers may need to present the tax-free form, receipts, passport, and purchased items at the airport or official refund counter before leaving Jordan.

Refund eligibility, minimum purchase amounts, refund methods, and processing procedures may vary. Travelers should confirm details directly at the store or tax refund counter before making large purchases.

Please note that the refund amount may not equal the full tax amount because processing or service fees may apply.

Travelers should not accept or carry luggage, packages, or goods for anyone outside the group.

Travelers should also check items carefully to avoid counterfeit goods or poor-quality imitations of famous brands. Purchase from reputable stores whenever possible.

Weather & Clothing
Interior Location Average Temp Mouse
Spring: March – May Amman / Madaba / Mount Nebo 10°C – 25°C One of the best seasons for Jordan. Weather is mild and pleasant, with cooler mornings and evenings. Bring layers, a light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Spring: March – May Petra / Wadi Musa 8°C – 26°C Comfortable for walking and sightseeing, but temperatures can change between sun and shade. Bring a light jacket, hat, water, and strong walking shoes.
Spring: March – May Dead Sea / Jordan Valley 18°C – 32°C Warmer than Amman and Petra. Bring light clothing, sun protection, water, sandals, and modest swimwear if included in the program.
Summer: June – August Amman / Madaba / Mount Nebo 18°C – 34°C Hot and dry during the day. Bring breathable modest clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water.
Summer: June – August Petra / Wadi Musa 18°C – 36°C Very hot in open areas and stone canyons. Start early when possible, drink water often, and wear sun protection.
Summer: June – August Dead Sea / Jordan Valley 26°C – 40°C+ Extremely hot. Limit long exposure to direct sun, drink water frequently, and wear sun protection.
Autumn: September – November Amman / Madaba / Mount Nebo 10°C – 28°C Another excellent season for travel. Days are warm and evenings become cooler. Bring layers, comfortable shoes, and a light jacket.
Autumn: September – November Petra / Wadi Musa 9°C – 29°C Pleasant for walking, especially in October and November. Bring layers, water, sunscreen, and strong walking shoes.
Autumn: September – November Dead Sea / Jordan Valley 20°C – 35°C Warm and comfortable, especially later in the season. Bring light clothing, sun protection, and water.
Winter: December – February Amman / Madaba / Mount Nebo 4°C – 14°C Cool to cold, with possible rain and wind. Bring warm layers, a jacket, scarf, umbrella or raincoat, and closed-toe shoes.
Winter: December – February Petra / Wadi Musa 2°C – 15°C Cold in the morning and evening, especially in shaded areas. Bring a warm jacket, layers, and comfortable shoes.
Winter: December – February Dead Sea / Jordan Valley 12°C – 24°C Milder than the highlands. Bring layers, sun protection, and a light jacket for evening.
Pilgrimage Clothing

When visiting churches, holy sites, mosques, monasteries, archaeological sites, or sacred places in Jordan, travelers should dress modestly, neatly, and respectfully.

Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting religious or sacred places. Avoid clothing that is too short, too sheer, too tight, or too revealing.

Women may find it helpful to carry a light scarf or shawl for churches, mosques, or conservative areas. Men should also avoid sleeveless shirts in religious or formal settings.

Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended because many sites include stone paths, stairs, desert sand, hills, and uneven ground. Petra in particular requires significant walking, and the path through the Siq and main archaeological area can be long.

For Mount Nebo and Madaba, modest clothing is recommended because these are meaningful biblical and Christian heritage sites.

For the Dead Sea, travelers may bring modest swimwear, water shoes or sandals, sunscreen, a hat, and a change of clothes if the trip includes time near the water.

Weather can change between regions. Amman and Mount Nebo may feel cooler than the Dead Sea or Jordan Valley, while Petra can feel hot during the day but cool in the evening. Layers are recommended.

Communication & Internet

Hotel phone calls can be expensive. Travelers are encouraged to use an eSIM, local SIM card, or international roaming plan from the United States.

International roaming plans from US carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile often cost around $10–$12 per day, depending on the carrier and plan.

An eSIM can be a convenient option if the traveler's phone supports it. Travelers are encouraged to install and set up the eSIM before leaving the United States or immediately after arrival.

Hotel Wi-Fi is usually available, but travelers should not depend on it completely. It is recommended to save hotel addresses, tour leader contact numbers, guide phone numbers, and meeting points offline.

Travelers may use iMessage, Viber, WhatsApp, or other internet-based apps to contact family and friends when Wi-Fi or mobile data is available.

For group travel, travelers should make sure their phone is charged every morning and should carry a small power bank in their personal bag.

Emergency Numbers

In case of an emergency in Jordan, travelers may call:

911 – General emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire services in many emergency situations.

193 – Ambulance / medical emergency.

199 – Fire department / civil defense.

Tourist Police Hotline: +962 79 550 5755.

For a real emergency, the easiest and most practical number to remember is 911.

If travelers are separated from the group, they should stay in a visible and easy-to-recognize location and call the tour guide immediately.

If travelers lose an item at a hotel, airport, restaurant, church, pilgrimage site, archaeological site, or tourist area, they should report it to the nearest staff member, security point, or tour guide as soon as possible.

For minor health issues, inform the tour guide so they can help contact the hotel, local guide, pharmacy, clinic, or emergency service if needed.

Electricity

Jordan uses electricity at approximately 230V / 50Hz.

Plug types in Jordan may vary, and travelers may encounter Type C, Type D, Type F, Type G, or Type J outlets depending on the hotel or location. Because outlet types are not always consistent, travelers should bring a universal travel adapter.

Before using hair dryers, curling irons, electric shavers, chargers, or other electronic devices, please check that the device supports 100–240V. If a device only supports 110V, a voltage converter may be needed.

Power banks should always be packed in carry-on luggage and must not be placed in checked baggage.

Safety

Jordan is a meaningful and welcoming destination with biblical heritage, desert landscapes, ancient cities, and sacred sites. However, travelers should remain aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas such as airports, markets, restaurants, churches, mosques, pilgrimage sites, archaeological sites, and tourist attractions.

Travelers should keep passports, cash, bank cards, phones, and important documents secure at all times. Do not keep all valuables in one bag, and avoid placing your wallet or phone in your back pocket. A crossbody bag or front-worn bag is recommended for daily sightseeing.

When visiting Petra, the Siq, Mount Nebo, Madaba, Amman Citadel, or other archaeological sites, please stay with the group and follow the tour guide's instructions. Some areas may include uneven stone paths, stairs, slopes, desert dust, and long walking distances.

Drink water regularly, especially in Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and other outdoor areas. Sun protection is important even when the weather feels mild.

Do not accept packages, luggage, food, drinks, or personal items from strangers. Travelers should only carry their own belongings and should not agree to transport anything for another person.

Be respectful of local culture and religious customs. Jordan is a Muslim-majority country with important Christian heritage sites. Modest clothing and respectful behavior are appreciated in public and religious places.

If travelers become separated from the group, they should stay in a visible and easy-to-recognize location and call the tour guide immediately. Do not leave the area on your unless owned by the tour guide or Carnival US.

Carnival US is not responsible for lost personal belongings, accidents caused by personal negligence, or issues resulting from failure to follow safety instructions.

Food & Dining

The tour usually includes breakfast at the hotel. Included meals may vary between Middle Eastern-style meals, international meals, Asian-style meals, and dishes suitable for Vietnamese travelers depending on the restaurant, schedule, and local conditions.

Jordanian cuisine is warm, generous, and closely connected to Arab hospitality. Common ingredients include rice, lamb, chicken, bread, yogurt, olive oil, chickpeas, eggplant, herbs, spices, dates, and fresh vegetables.

Some meals in Jordan may taste different from what Vietnamese travelers are used to. Dishes may include more lamb, grilled meats, bread, yogurt sauces, spices, or beans. Carnival US will try its best to vary menus whenever possible, while also giving travelers the opportunity to experience local flavors.

Travelers may bring small personal food items such as instant noodles, dried shredded pork, chili, seasonings, snacks, or light food items to use when needed. However, bringing outside food into restaurants may not always be convenient. Many restaurants serve only the pre-arranged menu, and requests for hot water for instant noodles may not always be available.

Travelers should inform Carnival US in advance if they have food allergies, vegetarian needs, dietary restrictions, or special meal requests, so the team can assist within the limits of what is available.

Due to restaurant conditions, pre-arranged menus, and differences in food culture, not all special requests can be fully guaranteed.

Jordanian meals are often served in a welcoming and shared atmosphere. During this journey, each meal can be seen as a time to rest, regain energy, experience local hospitality, and prepare for the next sacred or historical destination.

Local Cuisine
Mansaf
Jordan's national dish, made with rice, lamb, and a yogurt-based sauce usually called jameed. It is often served on special occasions and reflects Jordanian hospitality.
Maqluba
Maqluba
A traditional rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices, then flipped upside down before serving. The name means “upside down.”
Falafel
Falafel
Fried chickpea patties served with bread, vegetables, pickles, and tahini sauce. It is a popular and easy-to-enjoy food in Jordan.
Hummus
Hummus
A creamy chickpea dip made with tahini, lemon, garlic, and olive oil. It is commonly served with warm pita bread.
Mutabbal / Baba
A smoky eggplant dip mixed with tahini, lemon, and olive oil. It is often served as part of a mezze spread.
Mezzoe
A selection of small dishes such as hummus, salads, dips, olives, pickles, and bread, often shared at the beginning of a meal.
Shawarma
Shawwarma
Thinly sliced meat wrapped in bread with sauces, vegetables, or pickles. It is a popular casual meal in Jordan.
Kebab / Grilled Meats
Kebab / Grilled Meats
Grilled lamb, chicken, or beef seasoned with local spices and often served with rice, bread, or salad.
Pilgrimage Site Overview

Jordan carries a special spiritual depth because many of them are closely connected to the Bible, early Christianity, and the sacred geography of the Holy Land. These are not only historical places, but also spaces of prayer, memory, and reflection.

At Mount Nebo, pilgrims are reminded of Moses and the promise of God. At the Jordan River and Bethany Beyond the Jordan, travelers are invited to reflect on baptism, renewal, and the beginning of Christ's public ministry. In Madaba, ancient mosaics preserve the memory of the Holy Land through Christian art. In Petra, the beauty of stone, desert, and ancient civilization reminds visitors of the long history of peoples who lived, traveled, traded, and worshiped in this region.

As travelers visit these sacred and historic places, they are encouraged to keep a respectful and prayerful spirit. Some sites may be quiet and simple, while others may be large, rugged, or crowded. Comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing, patience, and an open heart will help each traveler experience these places more deeply.

These pilgrimage sites invite travelers not only to learn about the past, but also to reflect on their own journey of faith, gratitude, and trust in God.

Mount Nebo
A deeply meaningful biblical site where Moses is traditionally believed to have viewed the Promised Land. Pilgrims come here to reflect on faith, promise, and the journey of God's people.
Memorial Church of Moses
Located on Mount Nebo, this church preserves ancient mosaics and offers a prayerful setting overlooking the Jordan Valley, Dead Sea, and Holy Land.
Madaba Mosaic Map
A famous ancient mosaic map of the Holy Land located in Madaba. It helps pilgrims visualize biblical geography and early Christian memory.
St. George Church, Madaba
The church that houses the Madaba Mosaic Map, making it an important stop for pilgrims interested in biblical history and early Christian art.
Baptism Site / Bethany Beyond the Jordan
Traditionally recognized as the area where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. It is one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in Jordan.
Jordan River
A sacred river connected to Scripture, baptism, repentance, and renewal. Pilgrims may pause here for prayer and reflection on their own baptismal calling.
Dead Sea
The lowest point on earth and a unique natural site. For pilgrims, the Dead Sea region also connects to biblical landscapes and the geography of the Holy Land.