Why Choose the Jordan Pass
Travelling through Jordan can be a life-changing experience — ancient cities, desert castles, and world-famous landmarks at every turn. Yet entry fees, visa costs, and ticket queues can quickly add up. That’s where the Jordan Pass comes in. Designed by the Jordan Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, it bundles the country’s best attractions into a single, cost-saving digital pass that unlocks the Kingdom with one QR code.
The Jordan Pass isn’t just a ticket; it’s a complete sightseeing solution. It gives visitors pre-paid entry to over 40 attractions — including Petra, Jerash, Wadi Rum, and the Amman Citadel — all while waiving the 40 JD tourist visa fee for travellers who stay at least two nights. For anyone planning to see more than one major site, the savings are immediate.
One of its most valuable perks is that the Jordan Pass waives the standard 40 JD visa-on-arrival fee for eligible travellers. To qualify, you simply need to purchase the pass before arriving and stay at least two consecutive nights in Jordan. That means your entry visa is effectively covered from the moment you land, saving both time at the airport and extra expense — a major benefit for international visitors planning a multi-day itinerary.
It also simplifies travel logistics. Instead of paying in cash at every entrance or standing in line for tickets, you simply show your digital pass at the gate. Travellers receive the pass instantly by email, ready to scan on arrival. This efficiency alone makes it a favourite among independent travellers, digital nomads, and tour operators alike.
Beyond saving money, the Jordan Pass encourages exploration beyond the usual itinerary. Many visitors use it as a gateway to discover smaller gems such as Umm Qays, Madaba, or the As-Salt Museum — destinations that tell the story of Jordan’s deep heritage. In short, the pass delivers what every modern traveller wants: value, simplicity, and freedom to explore at their own pace.
What’s Included & How It Works
The Jordan Pass gives travellers access to more than 40 of Jordan’s top attractions, ranging from ancient Roman cities and Crusader castles to desert forts and seaside museums. It’s fully digital and valid for three months from purchase, expiring one month after first use — perfect for flexible itineraries.
After purchase through the official site (jordanpass.jo), the pass is emailed instantly as a PDF and image file. You can show it on your phone or print a copy; most travellers prefer to carry both in case scanners have trouble reading phone screens. At each attraction, staff simply scan your unique QR code and grant entry — no extra tickets, cash, or paperwork required.
The process is effortless:
– Buy online securely from anywhere.
– Receive your pass instantly by email.
– Show it at entrances to included sites.
– Enjoy hassle-free travel across the Kingdom.
Your Jordan Pass also comes with free downloadable travel brochures highlighting key heritage sites and travel tips. It’s recognised nationwide by the Jordan Tourism Board and is accepted at all major destinations. Whether you’re exploring the ruins of Jerash, climbing to the Amman Citadel, or venturing through the red sands of Wadi Rum, one scan is all it takes.
For travellers seeking convenience and transparency, the Jordan Pass offers one of the most streamlined sightseeing systems in the Middle East — saving both time and money while ensuring every visitor can experience Jordan’s incredible history without barriers.
Jordan Pass Packages & Pricing
The Jordan Pass comes in three straightforward packages designed around how many days you plan to spend exploring Petra, Jordan’s world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every option includes free entry to over 40 attractions, downloadable travel brochures, and a full visa fee waiver if purchased before arrival with a minimum two-night stay. The only difference is how many consecutive days you want to enjoy Petra.
1. Jordan Wanderer – 70 JDs
This base package includes a single-day entry to Petra. It’s perfect for travellers on a short itinerary who still want the freedom to explore major attractions like Jerash, Wadi Rum, and the Amman Citadel without paying separate entry fees.
2. Jordan Explorer – 75 JDs
Includes two consecutive days in Petra, allowing you to experience the ancient city at a relaxed pace — from the Siq and Treasury to the Monastery and High Place of Sacrifice. This is the sweet spot for most visitors, balancing cost and flexibility.
3. Jordan Expert – 80 JDs
Covers three consecutive days at Petra, giving history enthusiasts and photographers time to explore deeper trails and hidden tombs.
All packages are valid for three months from the date of purchase, and the pass activates automatically the first time it’s scanned. Buying online via jordanpass.jo takes just a few minutes, and your digital pass arrives instantly by email. Regardless of which option you choose, the savings easily exceed 150 USD compared to buying separate tickets and paying visa fees. For any itinerary including Petra, the Jordan Pass remains the best-value way to see the country.
Entry Visa Waiver Explained
One of the smartest advantages of the Jordan Pass is its ability to waive the 40 JD (≈ 60 USD) visa-on-arrival fee — effectively covering your entry costs into the Kingdom. This perk alone can pay for nearly half the pass value.
To qualify, you must:
– Purchase the Jordan Pass before arrival in Jordan.
– Stay at least two consecutive nights (three days) in the country.
– Enter via an eligible border, such as Queen Alia International Airport, Sheikh Hussein Bridge, or the Wadi Araba / Eilat–Aqaba crossing (for travellers exiting the same way).
When you arrive, simply present your printed or digital Jordan Pass at the visa desk. The border officer will scan the QR code and waive the usual visa fee. You’ll then proceed through normal passport control without paying anything extra.
Note that the waiver applies only to single-entry visas. Travellers who plan to leave and re-enter Jordan must obtain a new visa or extend their stay at a local police station. The exemption also does not apply to restricted nationalities that require pre-arranged visas.
This streamlined process means most visitors can land in Amman or Aqaba, show their pass, and begin exploring immediately — no extra paperwork, receipts, or cash required. For global travellers, that combination of simplicity, security, and savings makes the Jordan Pass the most practical tool for entering and touring Jordan.
Amman & Central Jordan Highlights
For many visitors, Amman is both the starting point and the cultural heartbeat of Jordan. The Jordan Pass grants access to several of the capital’s most important landmarks — places that bring together thousands of years of history within walking distance of each other.
Begin at the Amman Citadel, perched high on Jabal al-Qal’a hill. From its ancient fortifications you can see the remains of the Temple of Hercules, a 1st-century Roman hand towering above the city skyline, and the Umayyad Palace, built around AD 720. Just below, the Roman Theatre remains one of the best-preserved in the Middle East and still hosts cultural performances today — entry to both sites is fully covered by your Jordan Pass.
Nearby, the Jordan Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Popular Traditions showcase artefacts that trace life in the region from prehistoric tools to Nabataean sculptures. A short drive from downtown, the Iraq Al-Amir caves reveal early human settlements carved into the limestone cliffs.
For travellers keen to explore beyond the capital, the Jordan Pass also unlocks several desert castles east of Amman. These include Qasr Al-Mushatta, Qasr Al-Kharranah, and Qasr Hammam Al-Sarh — remarkable examples of early Islamic architecture scattered across the desert plains.
With these diverse experiences all included, Amman becomes more than a transit hub; it’s a living museum linking the Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic worlds. Holding a Jordan Pass means you can move seamlessly from one site to the next, turning a short city break into a rich historical journey through the heart of Jordan.
Jerash & Northern Jordan Highlights
North of Amman lies a landscape of green hills and olive groves — a region where Roman ruins, medieval castles, and panoramic valleys define Jordan’s northern charm. Your Jordan Pass covers entry to every major highlight here, making it effortless to explore one of the country’s most rewarding day-trip regions.
The standout attraction is Jerash, known as the Pompeii of the East. Once part of the Decapolis League of Roman cities, it boasts grand colonnaded streets, vast temples, and the striking Oval Plaza. With the Jordan Pass, you can wander freely through this sprawling archaeological park without extra ticket costs.
Continue northwest to Ajloun Castle, a 12th-century fortress built by Saladin’s generals to defend against Crusaders. Its towers overlook deep forest valleys and offer breathtaking views across the Jordan Valley. Farther north, Umm Qays (ancient Gadara) sits high above the Sea of Galilee. The site’s basalt ruins and Roman theatre reveal a fascinating mix of Hellenistic and Ottoman influences.
Nearby, the Dar Al-Saraya Museum in Irbid offers further insight into northern Jordan’s cultural history, while Pella, one of the region’s oldest inhabited towns, presents layers of Canaanite and Byzantine architecture in a tranquil valley setting.
If you have extra time, consider visiting Umm al-Jimmal or the St. Elijah’s Hill (Tal Mar Elias) pilgrimage site for off-the-beaten-path experiences — both included in the pass. With reliable roads and plenty of cafés along the way, Northern Jordan rewards those who venture beyond Amman with spectacular scenery and some of the most complete Roman remains outside Italy.
Madaba & Mount Nebo Region
Southwest of Amman lies Madaba, a small city with a big reputation for artistry and faith. Known as the City of Mosaics, Madaba is one of Jordan’s most fascinating stops, and every major site here is included in the Jordan Pass. This makes it an easy and affordable addition to any road trip between Amman and the Dead Sea.
The city’s most famous attraction is the Madaba Archaeological Park, where Roman streets, Byzantine churches, and stunning mosaic floors have been uncovered beneath modern houses. The highlight is the 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land, found inside the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, which shows Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, and the River Jordan in incredible detail.
Other included sites such as the Church of the Apostles, the Burnt Palace, and the Madaba Archaeological Museum showcase the area’s rich Christian heritage and intricate craftsmanship. Each one offers a window into daily life during the Byzantine and early Islamic periods.
Just a short drive away stands Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land. Though not formally included in the Jordan Pass, it’s a must-see extension of any Madaba visit. The view across the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and even Jerusalem on a clear day is unforgettable.
Madaba is also one of the easiest towns to reach by public transport from Amman, and many travellers use it as a base for exploring Mount Nebo and the King’s Highway. With the Jordan Pass in hand, you can explore its ancient art without worrying about entrance fees, making this small city one of the best-value heritage stops in the country.
As-Salt & Western Highlands
Tucked into the hills northwest of Amman, As-Salt is one of Jordan’s most characterful towns — a living showcase of Ottoman-era architecture and traditional hospitality. Once a thriving trading centre linking the East Bank with Jerusalem, As-Salt is today recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its exceptional urban heritage.
Your Jordan Pass provides access to both the As-Salt Museum and the As-Salt Historical Museum, two institutions that together tell the story of the town’s golden age. Inside beautifully restored 19th-century mansions, visitors can explore exhibits of traditional crafts, family photographs, and furniture that reflect the city’s multi-faith past, where Muslim and Christian families lived side by side.
The experience here feels refreshingly authentic. Unlike the crowds of Amman or Petra, As-Salt invites visitors to wander at a slower pace. Cobbled streets wind between ochre-stone houses, while viewpoints from Al-Khader Hill reveal sweeping views across the valley. Cafés serve cardamom-spiced coffee and local pastries, making it an ideal stop for a relaxed afternoon away from the main tourist trail.
Beyond its museums, As-Salt also serves as a gateway to the Western Highlands, a region of rolling hills and olive groves. Many travellers include it on a loop between Amman, Ajloun, and Madaba. With your Jordan Pass already covering the cultural highlights, the only thing left to spend here is time — and it’s time well spent, discovering a Jordan few tourists ever see.
Karak & Shobak Castles
Few places capture the drama of Jordan’s medieval past quite like its Crusader castles, and both Karak and Shobak are fully included in the Jordan Pass. Towering over valleys on the historic King’s Highway, these fortresses once formed a defensive chain protecting routes between Egypt, Damascus, and the Holy Land. Today they offer a fascinating look at centuries of conflict, faith, and architecture.
The mighty Karak Castle, built in the 12th century by the Crusaders, dominates the modern town of Al-Karak. Its stone passageways, vaulted halls, and endless tunnels make it one of the largest Crusader fortresses still standing in the Levant. Inside, the Karak Museum (also covered by the pass) displays artefacts and models that bring its turbulent history to life — from Crusader sieges to later Mamluk expansion.
Roughly 90 kilometres south lies Shobak Castle, perched on a lonely hill surrounded by desert. Also known as Montreal, it was established by Baldwin I of Jerusalem in 1115 AD and later taken by Saladin. Visitors can climb its towers for panoramic views of the rugged terrain or descend into the secret escape tunnel that once linked the castle to an underground spring.
Both fortresses are rewarding detours on the scenic King’s Highway, and the Jordan Pass means you can explore freely without extra entrance fees. Whether you’re a history enthusiast tracing the Crusader routes or a photographer chasing sunset light over stone walls, these castles embody the enduring spirit of Jordan’s southern highlands.
Petra & Wadi Rum Experience
For most travellers, Petra is the ultimate reason to buy the Jordan Pass — and rightly so. As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient Nabataean city carved into rose-red cliffs remains Jordan’s most breathtaking attraction. The Jordan Pass includes entry to Petra for one, two, or three consecutive days, depending on your chosen package.
Start your visit by walking through the narrow Siq, a natural sandstone canyon that opens suddenly onto the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh). From there, explore the Royal Tombs, the Roman Theatre, and climb to the Monastery (Ad-Deir) for unforgettable views across Wadi Musa. With multiple days included, you can experience the site at sunrise and sunset — times when Petra feels almost otherworldly.
Just a couple of hours south lies Wadi Rum, the second jewel in Jordan’s tourism crown. Known as the Valley of the Moon, its red dunes, dramatic rock bridges, and Bedouin camps make it one of the most photogenic desert landscapes on Earth. Your Jordan Pass covers entrance to the protected area, though jeep tours or camel rides are paid separately.
Together, Petra and Wadi Rum form the heart of any Jordan travel guide. They showcase the country’s blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity — from carved temples to endless desert horizons. With the Jordan Pass, you can walk in the footsteps of ancient traders, watch the stars from Bedouin tents, and experience the magic of southern Jordan without worrying about logistics or extra costs.
Aqaba & Red Sea Coast Attractions
At Jordan’s southern tip, the coastal city of Aqaba offers a refreshing contrast to the desert and mountains. As the country’s only port and beach resort, it’s a key stop for travellers seeking sun, sea, and snorkelling — and the Jordan Pass makes it even easier to explore its cultural side.
Two major historical landmarks are included with the pass: the Aqaba Castle and the Aqaba Archaeological Museum. The castle, also known as Mamluk Fort, dates back to the 16th century and once guarded vital trade routes along the Red Sea. Standing near the marina, its restored battlements overlook modern Aqaba and provide a fascinating glimpse into the town’s strategic role through Ottoman and World War I history.
Next door, the Aqaba Museum displays artefacts spanning centuries of coastal settlement, from early Bronze Age pottery to inscriptions celebrating the Arab Revolt. These compact yet insightful stops give travellers a richer sense of place before diving into the region’s outdoor adventures.
Beyond the heritage sites, Aqaba is the gateway to the Red Sea, offering coral reefs and calm waters ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling. It’s also part of Jordan’s ASEZA duty-free zone, meaning better prices on dining and shopping. Many visitors end their Jordan Pass journey here, relaxing after exploring Petra or Wadi Rum.
With easy access from Amman via flight or highway, Aqaba combines history and leisure in one coastal package. And with entry to its key landmarks already covered, your Jordan Pass stretches further — leaving more budget for sunset cruises, local seafood, or a dip in the clear Red Sea shallows.
Desert Castles & Eastern Jordan Route
Venture east of Amman and you’ll find an entirely different side of Jordan — a landscape of vast open desert dotted with mysterious 8th-century castles and hunting lodges. This region, often overlooked by first-time visitors, holds some of the most distinctive architectural treasures in the country. With the Jordan Pass, you can explore these remote wonders without worrying about entry fees or long detours.
The most famous of these is Quseir Amra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its vivid frescoes depicting hunting scenes, musicians, and zodiac symbols — rare surviving examples of early Islamic art. Nearby, the Qasr Al-Kharranah impresses with its fortress-like structure, its purpose still debated among historians. Both are easily accessible on a day trip from Amman.
Farther east, Qasr Al-Azraq stands out for its striking black basalt stones. The castle served as the headquarters of T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) during the Arab Revolt, and visitors can still see his small room overlooking the courtyard. The Al-Humaimah ruins and Museum of the Lowest Place on Earth near the Dead Sea complete the list of eastern inclusions.
Travelling the Desert Castle Route offers an atmospheric glimpse into early Islamic desert life — a blend of caravan stops, palaces, and fortresses once used by caliphs and travellers. With your Jordan Pass, you can move between these sites freely, making the eastern circuit one of the most rewarding and photogenic road trips in Jordan.
Restricted Countries & Border Entry Notes
While the Jordan Pass simplifies travel for most visitors, entry rules do vary depending on nationality. Understanding these regulations in advance helps avoid issues at the border. The pass waives visa-on-arrival fees for travellers from eligible countries, but it does not replace a visa for those from nations that require prior authorisation.
Jordan divides visa policy into restricted and non-restricted nationalities. Travellers from the United Kingdom, European Union, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and much of Asia can typically obtain a visa on arrival and benefit from the Jordan Pass fee waiver — provided they stay at least two nights.
However, citizens of restricted countries must obtain a visa before travel, even if they hold a Jordan Pass. Restricted nationalities currently include several parts of Asia (such as Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka) and much of Africa (including Nigeria, Ethiopia, Ghana, Sudan, and Somalia), along with Cuba in the Americas. A full list of restricted countries is available on the official Jordan Pass website (jordanpass.jo).
Entry into Jordan is possible through several border points:
– Queen Alia International Airport (Amman) – main gateway for air travellers.
– Aqaba Airport and Port – duty-free entry zone with visa-on-arrival facilities.
– Sheikh Hussein Bridge (Jordan River border) – connects to Israel.
– Wadi Araba Crossing (Eilat–Aqaba) – visa waiver available for Jordan Pass holders staying 2+ nights.
Travellers are advised to carry a printed copy of the pass, as some immigration desks require a physical QR scan. By knowing your eligibility before arrival, you’ll ensure a smooth border experience and make the most of the pass’s generous entry privileges.
Benefits, Validity & Money-Saving Tips
The Jordan Pass isn’t just about convenience — it’s one of the best-value sightseeing passes in the Middle East. With entry to over 40 attractions, visa fee waivers, and free travel brochures, it can save travellers more than 150 USD compared with buying tickets individually.
The pass is valid for three months from the purchase date, but once scanned at the first attraction, it remains active for 30 consecutive days. This makes it flexible enough for both short visits and extended adventures across Jordan. Whether you’re touring Petra, relaxing in Aqaba, or hiking through Wadi Rum, you’ll never have to queue or handle cash for entry fees again.
Smart travellers use the Jordan Pass strategically. Start by visiting higher-cost attractions like Petra (up to 50 JD per day) and Jerash, where savings are most significant. Combine those with smaller sites such as the As-Salt Museum or Madaba Archaeological Park, and the value multiplies quickly.
It also pays to buy your pass before arrival to unlock the visa fee waiver. Delaying until after you land means you’ll lose that 40 JD saving at the airport. Keep your pass QR code saved on your phone and printed as a backup — some scanners can be temperamental in bright sunlight.
Finally, remember that children under 12 enter most sites free with their parents, so families can save even more. When combined with Jordan’s affordable transport and accommodation, the pass makes it entirely possible to enjoy a world-class itinerary on a modest budget — an unbeatable deal for independent explorers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Jordan Pass a visa?
A: No. The Jordan Pass is not a visa, but it waives the visa fee for eligible nationalities who stay at least two consecutive nights. You’ll still receive a visa-on-arrival stamp in your passport, but there’s no payment required if your pass was purchased in advance.
Q: How long is the Jordan Pass valid for?
A: The pass is valid for three months from the purchase date and remains active for 30 days once scanned at your first attraction.
Q: Can I visit the same site more than once?
A: No, the pass allows single entry per site, except for Petra, where the number of days depends on your package (1, 2, or 3).
Q: Is public transport included?
A: Transport is not included. The pass covers entry fees only, so you’ll need to arrange your own travel between sites.
Q: Do children need a Jordan Pass?
A: Children under 12 can enter included sites for free when accompanied by parents. Older children require their own pass.
Q: What should I do if I didn’t receive my pass email?
A: Check your spam or junk folder first. If it’s missing, visit jordanpass.jo and use the download ticket option with your booking reference.
Q: Can I upgrade my package later?
A: No. Once purchased, package upgrades or downgrades are not available, so choose carefully when you buy.
Q: Is “Petra by Night” included?
A: No. The night-time light show is a separate ticketed event not covered by any Jordan Pass package.
Q: Who do I contact if I have issues in Jordan?
A: Call the Tourism Police on 117777 for assistance at any time during your stay.
Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips
Heading to Jordan with your new Jordan Pass? Here are a few smart tips to make your trip even smoother:
- Buy before you fly: Purchase the pass online before arriving to activate the visa fee waiver — it won’t apply after landing.
- Print and save: Always carry a paper copy as backup; some border scanners struggle with phone screens.
- Start Petra early: Gates open at 6am, and the morning light gives incredible photos without the crowds.
- Plan by region: Group sites in Amman, Madaba, and Jerash to minimise driving and save fuel.
- Use every inclusion: Visit smaller stops like the As-Salt Museum and Aqaba Castle — they add real value to the pass.
Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.
Further Reading & Related App Guides
Want to prepare for every part of your Jordan adventure? These related guides will help you stay informed, connected, and ready to travel with confidence.
• Discover Petra’s magic in detail → Petra Spotlight Guide
• Stay connected wherever you roam → eSIM Apps Guide
• Navigate cities with ease → Local Transport Apps Guide
• Plan train journeys worldwide → Train Booking Apps Guide
• Check the forecast before you go → Weather Apps Guide
Last Updated
Last updated: 22 October 2025
We keep all our Spotlight Guides regularly reviewed to ensure information remains accurate and up to date.
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