Camping : Accommodations

Camping is an option nearly everywhere in the country, although organized facilities are virtually nonexistent. Favorite sites include the beach north of Aqaba, the caves and ledges at Petra (ask for permission first), and Dibbin National Park. Camping is allowed next to most of the government Rest Houses (JD1-2 per person per night, plus 10% government tax), and many hostels and hotels will let you camp out on the roof for a small fee. You’ll need a sleeping bag for the cool summer nights, and winter evenings can bring sub-freezing temperatures.

You can always spend a night with the Bedouin, whom you’ll find on the outskirts of most towns and scattered around the desert. Tea, Arabic coffee, and meals always accompany an invitation, although showers and toilets rarely follow. While the Bedouin won’t accept money, a pack of Marlboros will always be appreciated.