Must-Have Travel Apps and Tools for Visiting Jordan
Visiting Jordan is a fantastic travel experience. However, navigating around can get tricky if you’re not prepared. Luckily, technology makes travel a lot easier. Whether you’re looking for maps that work offline, help with translations, or want an app for booking local experiences, I’ve got you covered. Here are essential apps and tools that will make your trip to Jordan smooth and enjoyable.
1. Google Maps
Google Maps is a go-to app when it comes to navigation anywhere. It works excellently in Jordan and helps you find directions, nearby restaurants, and attractions with ease. The best part: you can download maps to use offline, which comes in handy when you don’t have Wi-Fi or roaming signal.
Why it’s useful: Jordan’s roads can be tricky, especially in areas like Amman or Petra. Google Maps provides turn-by-turn navigation in both driving and walking modes, making it easy to explore. Make sure to download the offline map for Jordan before you go.
Cost: Free.
2. Maps.me
If you’re looking for a more lightweight app purely built for offline navigation, Maps.me is a great alternative to Google Maps. It allows you to download the entire country’s map and has useful features for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, which is perfect if you’re traveling to places like Wadi Rum or doing some adventure in Dana Nature Reserve.
Why it’s useful: Offline walking directions are super clear, and it marks hiking routes. Plus, it doesn’t consume as much battery power as other map apps.
Cost: Free.
3. Jordan Pass
The Jordan Pass combines entry tickets to many attractions with your tourist visa, helping you skip a lot of lines. You can purchase it online via their website and access it directly on your phone through a PDF or pass when you choose the digital option. It covers Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash, and over 30 other attractions across Jordan.
Why it’s useful: It saves both time and money. If you’re planning to visit all the must-see sites, getting the Jordan Pass will avoid buying individual tickets and those visa fees.
Cost: Paid (Prices start from 70 JOD, around $99).
4. Google Translate
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, you’ll encounter locals who primarily speak Arabic. Google Translate supports Arabic, so this app can translate menus, signs, or even help with simple conversations. The camera translation feature is especially useful for reading Arabic signs or menus instantly.
Why it’s useful: Jordan uses the Arabic language for most signage, and if you’re venturing into rural areas, it’s invaluable. You can download the Arabic language pack to use translation offline.
Cost: Free.
5. Careem
Careem is Jordan’s version of Uber. It’s widely used in Amman and offers rides to and from various cities. The app allows you to book taxis or rideshare services and pay either by cash or card. It’s a convenient and more affordable alternative to traditional taxis.
Why it’s useful: Public transport in Jordan isn’t always the most efficient, especially if you’re trying to travel quickly in city areas. Using Careem takes the hassle out of finding a reliable ride.
Cost: Free (Ride fares vary).
6. XE Currency
Understanding exchange rates and calculating the costs of things in local currency can be confusing, especially if you’re not used to Jordanian Dinars (JOD). XE Currency helps you convert prices quickly, whether you’re haggling in a market or checking the cost of your lunch.
Why it’s useful: The app works offline, so you always have updated exchange rates to check prices without requiring internet.
Cost: Free.
7. Booking.com
Finding a place to stay can be daunting, but Booking.com gives you a large variety of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. It’s extremely useful for last-minute bookings, and Jordan has numerous accommodations that fit almost every budget through the app.
Why it’s useful: You can sort through options based on guest reviews, distance from key locations, and price. Most listings offer free cancellation, which gives you flexibility if plans change.
Cost: Free (Prices of hotels vary).
8. Airbnb
Airbnb operates very smoothly in Jordan. Whether you’re looking for a homestay in Amman or a Bedouin camp experience in Wadi Rum, the app has a selection of unique stays you won’t find on other platforms.
Why it’s useful: Airbnb is great for finding accommodations that reflect the local lifestyle. It’s also ideal for long-term stays if you’re planning to immerse yourself in the culture.
Cost: Free (Prices depend on the listing).
9. Rome2Rio
Rome2Rio is a transportation app that shows you all the possible options for getting from point A to point B. It’s helpful when you need to figure out routes between cities like Amman, Petra, or Aqaba. The app suggests flights, bus schedules, and driving routes in Jordan.
Why it’s useful: If you’re planning to visit several cities, Rome2Rio gives you a quick glance at your road, bus, and plane options. It’ll also estimate costs for each.
Cost: Free.
10. Trail Wallet
Managing your budget while traveling can be tricky at times. Trail Wallet is a simple travel expense tracker that you can use to manage your finances by entering your expenses in different categories. The app helps you stay within budget easily.
Why it’s useful: Jordan can be a surprisingly expensive country, so keeping an eye on where you’re spending your money ensures you don’t go over limits, especially when staying longer.
Cost: Free for basic features (Upgraded version costs $4.99).
11. Skyscanner
When flying into Jordan, a booking tool like Skyscanner is a must-have to score some good deals on flights. The app includes budget-friendly airlines and hotels, and it lets you set up price alerts so you can book at the best time.
Why it’s useful: Apart from tracking low fares to Jordan, you can book multi-city trips if you’re planning to visit neighboring countries like Israel or Egypt.
Cost: Free.
12. Jordan Tourism Board’s App
This official app from the Jordan Tourism Board provides essential travel information about the best places to visit in Jordan. It’s especially useful for first-time visitors and offers recommendations based on your preferences.
Why it’s useful: You get reliable, up-to-date information straight from the local tourism office. If there’s anything new to explore or any events happening, you’ll find it here.
Cost: Free.
13. Trailforks
Jordan is becoming known for its hiking trails, and Trailforks is one of the most reliable tools for navigators in the outdoors. It’s great for hiking, walking, and biking. The app provides maps, nearby trails, and important features for outdoor enthusiasts.
Why it’s useful: If you’re planning epic hikes in the Wadi Mujib canyon or a trek through the Dana Reserve, Trailforks guides you with accurate trail markers and reviews.
Cost: Free for basic features (Pro features are paid).
14. TripAdvisor
TripAdvisor makes it easy to read reviews and recommendations from other travelers. When visiting bigger tourist attractions like Petra or floating in the Dead Sea, this app has reviews, photos, and tips. It’s extremely useful to compare activities.
Why it’s useful: It’s a useful app for reading recent reviews and seeing other travelers’ perspectives before booking activities or tours.
Cost: Free.
15. HappyCow
If you’re vegetarian or vegan, finding the right food can be challenging. HappyCow shows you all the restaurants that offer plant-based meals around Jordan. This app is useful no matter where you are in the country.
Why it’s useful: You’ll be able to locate veggie-friendly eateries all across Amman and other cities, helping you stick to your dietary preferences while traveling.
Cost: Free (Paid version available at $3.99 for bonuses).
Conclusion
These apps will make your trip to Jordan smoother and more stress-free. They offer everything you need from getting around, translating, budgeting, and booking accommodations to finding food. Download these apps before your trip to help you navigate your adventure in Jordan like a pro.
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