The Destination

Jordan has a wide range of climates. The common factor is aridity – much of the country is generally arid. The west of the country has a more Mediterranean climate, while the east and the south are primarily desert. The areas on the plateau are at altitude, such as Amman and Petra, and thus have milder climates, but the summers can still reach scorching temperatures with very little rain. 

In the summer, temperatures are over 30°C on average. The average nighttime temperature is approximately 10 degrees less than the daytime temperature. The air is extremely dry, which contributes to the sudden fluctuations in temperature (that is, when the sun goes down, it gets cold very quickly).

Clothing

While there's no strict dress code in Jordan, modest clothing is appreciated outside of tourist areas. In places like Petra and the Dead Sea, shorts and sleeveless tops are acceptable and perfectly fine for the marathon. However, outside these zones, such attire may attract attention. At mosques and holy sites, both men and women should cover shoulders and knees; women may also need to cover their hair and chest.

Etiquette

When you see people greet each other, you may see vigorous handshakes and hearty hugs. However, for some, Jordan is a conservative country, so respectful behaviour is key. Some locals may avoid physical contact with the opposite sex—wait for them to initiate. A hand over the heart is a polite alternative. 

Remove shoes when entering homes, use your right hand for eating or greeting, and always ask before taking photos. 

Water

The tap water in Jordan is not safe to drink. Most hotels provide a kettle for boiling water, and bottled water is provided along the marathon route. 

For daily drinking purposes, it is advisable to buy bottled water.

Food 

Unwashed vegetables and fruit from which you eat the skin should also be avoided. 

Dietary preferences and health requirements

We understand that allergies and special diets are a common concern among our guests. We do our very best to accommodate any diet for medical, allergy or religious needs; however, we cannot guarantee that all dining establishments can fulfil special requests. 

Guests with special dietary requirements should inform their server upon arriving at the location. To facilitate this, we strongly recommend bringing a description of your dietary needs, which has been translated into the local language. When present, your Albatros tour leader can also help inform local eateries of any special requests.

If you require a special diet during your travel, please inform us no later than 45 days before your tour begins. 

Modern Standard Arabic is Jordan’s official language, but most people speak Jordanian Arabic, which varies by region (urban, rural, or Bedouin). 

English is widely spoken, especially in cities, due to Jordan’s history and education system—it’s taught from an early age and used in schools, media, and government.

Please note that participants are responsible for their own travel insurance. 

Medical assistance during the marathon event

A team of English-speaking doctors and danish paramedics will be present prior to, during and immediately after the marathon event. The doctors patrol the route and are ready in case of injury or severe exhaustion. All decisions made by the medical team are final.

Disclaimer

If any treatment is unable to be carried out by our doctors and it is necessary to refer a participant to a local medical facility, our medical team and travel agency will not be held liable for any treatment carried out by local medical facilities. It is advisable to purchase medical insurance before your journey. 

Currency

Jordan uses the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). You may bring USD or Euro and exchange them upon arrival. 

Most major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; however, some shops, street vendors and train stations do not accept cards, or the machines may not be working properly, so it is a good idea to always carry a bit of cash.

Tipping

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Jordan, but it’s appreciated and often expected, especially in tourism. 

In restaurants, check if a service charge is included—if not, 5–10% is standard. 

For taxis, rounding up the fare is a kind gesture. 

Tour guides also appreciate a small tip for good service.

Haggle 

Hotels, restaurants, and public transport almost always have fixed prices. 

However, street vendors and tour operators are quite open to bargaining, especially if you buy in bulk or for a large group of people. 

Telephone

The international country code to call Jordan is +962. Roaming is available, but expensive. 

Check with your cell phone provider regarding rates before you travel. 

Internet

Internet access is generally available at the hotels and larger restaurants. Internet connection can be purchased at most hotels. 

Electricity

Jordan uses various plug types, including C, D, F, G, and J. The voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. Check your device’s power adapter to ensure compatibility—some may need a converter or adapter.

A visa is required for all travellers entering Jordan.

Most nationalities can obtain the visa upon arrival at Amman airport for JOD 40. Note that a cash payment is required. USD is accepted, corresponding to the exchange rate at the time of entry. 

Kindly be advised that certain nationalities require an entry visa to be obtained PRIOR to travel. A list of these nationalities, as well as the most updated rules and regulations can be found on the Jordan Tourism Board's website.

It is solely each traveller's responsibility to ensure they have the necessary documentation and comply with the laws and regulations of the country visited.

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of your departure.