Planning a trip to Jordan? If you’re visiting Petra, there’s a good chance the Jordan Pass will save you both money and time. But many travelers misunderstand how it works—especially when it comes to the visa waiver, validity period, Petra access, and attractions that are not included.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know before buying a Jordan Pass, including insider tips that many visitors only learn after arriving in Jordan.
What Is the Jordan Pass?
The Jordan Pass is an official tourism package issued by the Jordanian government that combines admission to more than 40 tourist attractions with a visa fee waiver for eligible visitors who meet the minimum stay requirements.
For most international tourists planning to visit Petra, Jerash, Wadi Rum, and other archaeological sites, purchasing the Jordan Pass is considerably cheaper than buying everything separately.
Jordan Pass Types
The only difference between the three Jordan Pass options is the number of consecutive days you can enter Petra.
| Jordan Pass | Price | Petra Access | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jordan Wanderer | 70 JOD | 1 consecutive day | Travelers with limited time |
| Jordan Explorer | 75 JOD | 2 consecutive days | Most visitors |
| Jordan Expert | 80 JOD | 3 consecutive days | Hikers, photographers, and travelers exploring Petra in depth |
Which Pass Should You Choose?
Jordan Wanderer is perfect if Petra is just one stop on a packed itinerary and you’re comfortable seeing the highlights in a single day.
Jordan Explorer is the sweet spot for most travelers. Two days give you enough time to see the Treasury, Royal Tombs, Great Temple, Monastery, and High Place of Sacrifice without feeling rushed.
Jordan Expert is ideal if you plan to tackle Petra’s longer hiking routes and backcountry trails beyond the classic circuit. Three days let you explore viewpoints and lesser-known paths that many day-trippers never reach.
Jordan Pass Prices vs. Regular Petra Tickets
| Item | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Petra 1-day ticket | 50 JOD |
| Petra 2-day ticket | 55 JOD |
| Petra 3-day ticket | 60 JOD |
| Tourist visa on arrival | 40 JOD |
| Jordan Wanderer | 70 JOD |
| Jordan Explorer | 75 JOD |
| Jordan Expert | 80 JOD |
For visitors eligible for the visa waiver, the Jordan Pass often pays for itself with Petra alone.
Does the Jordan Pass Include the Visa?
This is the most misunderstood part.
No—the Jordan Pass itself is not a visa. Instead, it waives the tourist visa fee for eligible travelers who:
- Purchase the Jordan Pass before arriving in Jordan.
- Stay at least 2 whole nights (3 days) in Jordan.
- Meet the nationality and entry requirements for visa-on-arrival.
If you leave Jordan before completing the required stay, immigration records will show this when you exit the country, and you’ll be directed to pay the visa fee.
Can Anyone Buy the Jordan Pass?
Almost anyone can purchase it, but not everyone benefits equally.
According to the official FAQ:
- The Jordan Pass is not available for holders of Arabic nationalities.
- Some nationalities already receive visa exemptions or require visas in advance, so the visa benefit may differ.
- The attractions component remains valuable even if the visa waiver does not apply.
How Long Is the Jordan Pass Valid?
There are two different validity periods that travelers often confuse.
Before entering Jordan
The Jordan Pass is valid for 3 months from the date of purchase and should be used within that period. Official guidance also explains that the associated e-visa has its own validity window before arrival.
After entering Jordan
Once the pass is first activated (scanned at an attraction), it remains valid for 1 month for included tourist sites.
Petra Access Rules
When you choose Explorer or Expert, your Petra days must be used consecutively.
For example:
- Explorer → Day 1 + Day 2
- Expert → Day 1 + Day 2 + Day 3
You cannot split visits across separate weeks.
Attractions Included in the Jordan Pass
The pass grants entry to over 40 sites across Jordan, including:
- Petra
- Jerash
- Wadi Rum Protected Area (entry only)
- Amman Citadel
- Karak Castle
- Ajloun Castle
- Umm Qais
- Madaba Archaeological Park
- Numerous museums and archaeological sites
Attractions NOT Included
Many travelers incorrectly assume the Jordan Pass covers everything.
| Attraction | Included? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Petra (daytime) | ✅ | Based on your selected pass |
| Petra by Night | ❌ | Separate ticket required |
| Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Baptism Site) | ❌ | Can often be added online for an extra fee |
| Mount Nebo | ❌ | Separate admission |
| Wadi Mujib Siq Trail | ❌ | Separate admission |
| Jeep tours in Wadi Rum | ❌ | Activities booked separately |
| Camel rides & local experiences | ❌ | Not included |
Petra by Night: A Common Misunderstanding
One of the biggest surprises for visitors is that Petra by Night is not included in any Jordan Pass package.
The evening experience requires a separate ticket and, according to official guidance, visitors must also hold a valid daytime Petra ticket or Jordan Pass. Always confirm the latest operating schedule before planning around it, as operations may vary.
Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Baptism Site)
The Baptism Site is not included in the standard Jordan Pass.
However, when purchasing your pass online, you can often add Bethany at a discounted supplemental price rather than paying the full standalone admission later.
Hidden Benefit: The 1916 Hijaz Railway Experience
A lesser-known perk is that travelers may be able to add the 1916 Hijaz Railway experience during checkout at no additional cost.
This historical train ride normally has a separate admission fee, so checking the optional add-ons while purchasing your Jordan Pass can provide extra value. Availability and operating days may change, so verify details before your trip.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make
| Mistake | Better Choice |
|---|---|
| Buying Wanderer then wishing for another Petra day | Choose Explorer if unsure |
| Assuming Petra by Night is included | Budget separately |
| Thinking Mount Nebo is covered | Buy a separate ticket |
| Leaving Jordan before completing the required stay | Stay long enough if relying on the visa waiver |
| Not realizing Petra days are consecutive | Plan your itinerary carefully |
| Forgetting to activate optional add-ons during purchase | Review all extras before checkout |
Is the Jordan Pass Worth It?
For the vast majority of international tourists visiting Petra, the answer is yes.
If you’re spending several days in Jordan and plan to visit Petra plus a handful of other attractions, the Jordan Pass usually saves money, reduces ticket queues, and simplifies travel logistics.
The only travelers who may not benefit are those spending very little time in Jordan or skipping Petra entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade from Wanderer to Explorer later?
No. Officially, passes cannot be upgraded or downgraded after purchase.
Can I visit Petra twice with a one-day pass?
No. Wanderer includes only one day of Petra access.
Are the Petra days consecutive?
Yes. Explorer and Expert require consecutive visiting days.
Does the Jordan Pass include Petra by Night?
No. Petra by Night always requires a separate ticket.
Does it include Mount Nebo?
No.
Does it include Bethany Beyond the Jordan?
Not by default, although an optional discounted add-on may be available during purchase.
Can I still buy the Jordan Pass if I’m staying less than three days?
Yes. You’ll still receive attraction benefits, but you generally won’t qualify for the visa fee waiver if you don’t meet the minimum stay requirements.
Let Zoor Tours Help You Make the Most of Your Jordan Pass
Buying the right Jordan Pass is only the first step. Planning Petra hiking routes, arranging transportation between Amman, Wadi Rum, Jerash, the Dead Sea, and Aqaba, and understanding which attractions require separate tickets can quickly become overwhelming.
At Zoor Tours, we help travelers build customized itineraries that maximize the value of their Jordan Pass while avoiding common mistakes, ensuring you spend more time enjoying Jordan and less time worrying about logistics.
