Latest travel updates on Coronavirus (COVID19) here
Jordan has become synonymous with the antiquitos Nabataean city of Petra and its surrounding sandstone cliffs. And for good reason: The UNESCO-listed site is one of the ancient world’s most well-preserved treasures. In fact, since its “discovery” by Swiss explorer Jean Louis Burckhardt in 1812, the site—also called ‘The Rose City’—has been drawing endless crowds of inquisitive travellers. In 2019 alone, Petra drew an astounding one million visitors. But by no means is Petra the be-all and end-all of this Middle Eastern destination. In the capital city of Amman, the ancient Roman amphitheatre and acclaimed Jordan Museum await, not to mention endless coffeehouses quintessential to everyday Jordanian life. The Dead Sea is as visually striking as it is viscous. Meanwhile, by stepping through the ceremonial gates of Jerash you’ll be transported back to the height of the Roman Empire—this historic city may have the densest collection of Roman architecture outside of Italy today. Even the more adventurously inclined will love Jordan while 4x4ing through Wadi Rum or trekking the 650km Jordan Trail. So while we absolutely encourage you to plan your visit around Petra, please don’t overlook the rest of this fascinating country.
In comparison to neighbouring countries, Jordan’s stance on LGBTQ rights is ‘almost’ admirable. In fact, sex between consenting same-sex partners in Jordan is actually legal. That said, LGBTQ locals have few allies in government. Not to mention, public opinion is discouragingly negative. While visitors may observe same-sex friends holding hands in the street, this idiosyncrasy is purely platonic and any other form of PDA may stoke confrontation.
Gay Activity: Legal
Lesbian Activity: Legal
Gay Marriage: Not Recognized
Right to Change Gender: Legal, Surgery Not Required
Same-Sex Adoption: Singles Only
LGBT Discrimination: Not Protected
A small, underground LGBTQ scene can be found in the capital of Amman. However, the scene is very locally-focused and not easily accessible to visitors. In fact, the utmost discretion is advised if you intend on trying to meet local LGBTQ people for both your safety and theirs.
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
This ancient city may have one of the largest and densest collections of Roman ruins outside of Italy.
Slumber in one of the region’s many campsites to best appreciate this colourful desert oasis.
Perhaps Jordan’s second-most famous draw is the salt-dense Dead Sea. After floating above its famous waters, enjoy a therapeutic mud bath before soaking up the Middle Eastern sun.
Jordan’s capital city is also its cultural heart with ancient streets lined with restaurants, coffeehouses, shops, mosques and souks. Be sure to stop by the glorious Roman amphitheatre.
If you’re anything like us, you first learnt of Petra while watching hunky Harrison Ford whipping his way around the globe in the search of the Holy Grail. But while that may have been your introduction, we assure you the ancient site is so much more than a pretty movie set. The site’s famous rock-cut temple exterior is a beautiful hand-carved facade of pillars and tombs framed by rose-y sandstone cliffs—an unforgettable scene, best appreciated at dusk and dawn. Meanwhile, inside Petra lies centuries of Nabataean mysteries waiting to be unravelled on a guided tour. Perhaps UNESCO describes Petra best as “one of the most precious cultural properties of man’s cultural heritage.”
Best Time of Year To Visit: September through December are generally the best shoulder months to visit. During this time, the heat tends to be bearable and early seasonal showers revitalize the desert flora.
Electricity: In Jordan the power plugs and sockets are of type C, D, F, G and J. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. For more information visit https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/jordan/.
Time Zones: Eastern European Standard Time (GMT+2)
Covid-19 Vaccination Requirements: Out Adventures requires proof of full Covid-19 vaccination from all guests, following recommendations by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For more details please see our Covid-19 FAQ.
Other Vaccinations: Based on entry requirements, only travellers coming from a country with risk of Yellow Fever may be required to show proof of a vaccination. To determine if you should take preventative measures to reduce the risk of illness, you should consult your doctor or a travel medical clinic, as Out Adventures cannot provide vaccination recommendations.
Visas: Most American, Canadian and British passport holders should register for a 30-day visa before arriving in Jordan. However, a visa can be purchased upon arrival for 40 DOJ. Click here for more information or to purchase your visa. Travelers are responsible for their own visas and making sure they meet entry requirements into the country.
LGBT Rights in Jordan
In comparison to neighbouring countries, Jordan’s stance on LGBTQ rights is ‘almost’ admirable. In fact, sex between consenting same-sex partners in Jordan is actually legal. That said, LGBTQ locals have few allies in government. Not to mention, public opinion is discouragingly negative. While visitors may observe same-sex friends holding hands in the street, this idiosyncrasy is purely platonic and any other form of PDA may stoke confrontation.
Gay Activity: Legal
Lesbian Activity: Legal
Gay Marriage: Not Recognized
Right to Change Gender: Legal, Surgery Not Required
Same-Sex Adoption: Singles Only
LGBT Discrimination: Not Protected
Gay Jordan Travel
A small, underground LGBTQ scene can be found in the capital of Amman. However, the scene is very locally-focused and not easily accessible to visitors. In fact, the utmost discretion is advised if you intend on trying to meet local LGBTQ people for both your safety and theirs.
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Best Places to Visit in Jordan
This ancient city may have one of the largest and densest collections of Roman ruins outside of Italy.
Slumber in one of the region’s many campsites to best appreciate this colourful desert oasis.
Perhaps Jordan’s second-most famous draw is the salt-dense Dead Sea. After floating above its famous waters, enjoy a therapeutic mud bath before soaking up the Middle Eastern sun.
Jordan’s capital city is also its cultural heart with ancient streets lined with restaurants, coffeehouses, shops, mosques and souks. Be sure to stop by the glorious Roman amphitheatre.
If you’re anything like us, you first learnt of Petra while watching hunky Harrison Ford whipping his way around the globe in the search of the Holy Grail. But while that may have been your introduction, we assure you the ancient site is so much more than a pretty movie set. The site’s famous rock-cut temple exterior is a beautiful hand-carved facade of pillars and tombs framed by rose-y sandstone cliffs—an unforgettable scene, best appreciated at dusk and dawn. Meanwhile, inside Petra lies centuries of Nabataean mysteries waiting to be unravelled on a guided tour. Perhaps UNESCO describes Petra best as “one of the most precious cultural properties of man’s cultural heritage.”
More Info
Best Time of Year To Visit: September through December are generally the best shoulder months to visit. During this time, the heat tends to be bearable and early seasonal showers revitalize the desert flora.
Electricity: In Jordan the power plugs and sockets are of type C, D, F, G and J. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. For more information visit https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/jordan/.
Time Zones: Eastern European Standard Time (GMT+2)
Covid-19 Vaccination Requirements: Out Adventures requires proof of full Covid-19 vaccination from all guests, following recommendations by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For more details please see our Covid-19 FAQ.
Other Vaccinations: Based on entry requirements, only travellers coming from a country with risk of Yellow Fever may be required to show proof of a vaccination. To determine if you should take preventative measures to reduce the risk of illness, you should consult your doctor or a travel medical clinic, as Out Adventures cannot provide vaccination recommendations.
Visas: Most American, Canadian and British passport holders should register for a 30-day visa before arriving in Jordan. However, a visa can be purchased upon arrival for 40 DOJ. Click here for more information or to purchase your visa. Travelers are responsible for their own visas and making sure they meet entry requirements into the country.
Out Adventures Gay Travel Podcast cohosts Peter and Rob debate the ethics surrounding LGBT travel in countries where homosexuality is illegal.
Read MoreToday’s Gay Travel Podcast episode discusses the pros and cons of travelling solo or with a friend/group.
Read More10 things to know before considering gay travel in Morocco.
Read MoreOut Adventures’ ultimate gay guide to purchasing hiking boots.
Read MoreSweat and schlep on one of Out Adventures’ epic international Gay Hikes. From the Peruvian Andes to exhausting Everest Base Camp.
Read MoreOut Adventures loves to bring you the most diverse gay tours on Earth, and we’ve done so for nearly ten years. But some journeys bring travellers to nations less gay-welcoming than others.
Read More
