Driving in Jordan for Tourists
Driving in Jordan as a tourist can be both an exhilarating and challenging experience. Here are some key points and safety tips to consider if you plan to drive in Jordan:
Hiring a Private Driver vs. Renting a Car
Hiring a Private Driver:
• Cost Efficiency: Often, the cost of hiring a private driver is comparable to renting a car when you factor in fuel, insurance, and other incidentals. Private drivers are familiar with the local driving conditions and can help you avoid potential pitfalls.
• Local Knowledge: Private drivers know how to navigate the roads and understand local driving behaviors, which can be unpredictable. This allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery instead of focusing on the road.
• Safety: Driving at night can be hazardous due to unlit rural roads and drivers who may not use headlights. Additionally, driving behavior in Jordan can be erratic, with instances of speeding, ignoring lane markings, and unexpected obstacles like pedestrians and animals on the road.
Renting a Car:
Driving in Jordan can be a rewarding experience if you are well-prepared and cautious. If you decide to rent a car, be prepared for a driving environment that may be quite different from what you’re used to. Traffic rules are often not strictly followed, and local driving habits can be unpredictable.
Road Conditions and Driving Habits
General Road Conditions: Major highways like the Desert Highway and King’s Highway are generally well-maintained. However, rural roads might be less reliable, with occasional potholes and unmarked speed bumps.
Driving Behavior: Expect unpredictable driving behaviors such as abrupt lane changes without signals, driving on the shoulder, and pedestrians or animals on the roads. Speeding is common, and many drivers do not use headlights at night, making nighttime driving particularly hazardous.
Safety Tips
1. Avoid Night Driving: Roads are often unlit outside urban areas, and some drivers do not use headlights, increasing the risk of accidents due to poor visibility.
2. Speed Limits and Police Checkpoints: Adhere to speed limits (60 km/h in cities, 80-90 km/h in rural areas, and 120 km/h on highways). Speed cameras are common, and police checkpoints are frequent, especially on highways.
3. Road Signs and Navigation: While road signs are usually in both Arabic and English, using GPS or Google Maps is highly recommended. Street names might not be familiar even to locals, so landmarks are often used for navigation. Be cautious of speed bumps, especially on highways where they may not be well-marked. These can be a jarring surprise if hit at high speed.
4. Insurance: Always opt for full-cover insurance when renting a car. This is crucial due to varying road conditions and the likelihood of minor accidents.
5. Fueling Up: Ensure your car is well-fueled before heading into remote areas, as petrol stations can be sparse in certain regions, particularly along parts of the King’s Highway.
Types of Roads
Desert Highway (Road 15):
This is the fastest route between north and south Jordan but offers little in terms of scenery.
King’s Highway (Road 35):
A more scenic but slower route with winding paths through mountains and valleys, offering beautiful views.
Dead Sea Highway (Road 65):
This road runs along the Dead Sea and is known for its spectacular views and opportunities to swim in the Dead Sea.
Final Recommendations
For a stress-free experience, consider a combination of hiring a private driver for more complex routes and renting a car for simpler, scenic drives outside of major cities. Always stay alert, adhere to local driving norms, and enjoy the unique landscapes of Jordan safely.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable driving experience while exploring the beautiful country of Jordan.