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Getting Around Jerash

Getting Around Jerash

Jerash Jerash And The North, Jordan Travel Guide

Public Transit Systems in Jordan

Mini-Buses (Servees) are the most common form of local public transport. They are typically white vans operating on fixed routes, departing when full. You hail them from the side of the road or find them at designated stands. JETT buses offer a more comfortable, air-conditioned inter-city service with fixed schedules and travel costs, mainly connecting major cities. While JETT runs services To Jerash from Amman for organized tours, local 'servees' are more common for independent travel.

From Amman, the main hub for local buses and shared cabs to Jerash is the Tabarbour (North) Bus Station in Amman. You take a local taxi to reach Tabarbour from most parts of Amman. In Jerash, buses and servees from Amman drop off passengers near the main entrance to the Jerash Archaeological Site. You find mini-bus stands in Jerash town for local routes or connections to surrounding villages.

Transit Details

  • Ticketing and Fares: Fares are paid in cash directly to the driver or a conductor upon boarding. No advance ticketing systems exist for local mini-buses.
  • Hours and Frequency: Mini-buses operate frequently, generally every 15-30 minutes during daylight hours (around 6-7 AM to 5-6 PM).
  • Accessibility: Public mini-buses are generally not wheelchair accessible, with high stairs and narrow entrances.
  • Navigating: Ask locals for directions if unsure. Buses may not have clear English signage. Expect crowded conditions.

Taxis & Hailing

Licensed taxis are yellow. Always ensure the driver uses the meter. If not, discuss the price upfront. For rides within Jerash town or to the archaeological site, expect fares of 1-2 JOD.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Careem and Uber operate widely in Amman, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis. They possess a more limited presence in Jerash town but might be available for trips to or from Amman.

Safety Considerations

Licensed taxis are generally safe. Ride-sharing apps offer tracking and driver information for added safety and transparency regarding fares.

Rental Options

Car Rental
  • Requirements: Valid national driver's license, International Driving Permit (IDP), passport, and a valid credit card for deposit.
  • Companies: International chains (DiscoverCars.com) and local companies operate at AMM airport and in Amman.
  • Location: Jerash town does not have major car rental offices; rent from Amman.
Other Rental Options
  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Less common and generally not recommended due to traffic and safety.
  • Bicycle Sharing: No formal programs in Jerash. Some hotels might offer bicycles.
  • Specialty Vehicles: No tuk-tuks, jeepneys, cable cars, or funiculars in Jerash.

Driving & Parking

Driving Laws

Drive on the right-hand side of the road. Driving speeds are monitored.

Road Conditions

Main roads are well-maintained. Local roads vary, with potential potholes.

Parking

Ample parking is available at the Jerash Archaeological Site entrance.

Safety Tips

Practice defensive driving and watch for unmarked speed bumps.

Walking and Cycling in Jerash

On foot is the main way to explore the ancient site of Jerash. Cycling is less common for tourists in the vicinity due to limited infrastructure and safety concerns.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Jerash Archaeological Site: The entire archaeological the place is pedestrian-only. Prepare for extensive walking over uneven surfaces, ancient cobblestones, and steps.
  • Walking Tour Options: Maps of the archaeological site are available at the entrance for self-guided tours. Official, licensed site guides are available for hire at the entrance gate.
  • Jerash Town: Modern Jerash town has sidewalks, but traffic can be busy.
  • No-Go Areas: It's not safe to walk or cycle on major highways and busy city roads due to safety concerns.

Cycling Information

  • Limited Infrastructure: Jerash has very limited bicycle infrastructure. Dedicated cycling lanes are generally absent.
  • Safety Concerns: Cycling on main roads is not recommended due to traffic density and varying road conditions.
  • Recommended Areas: If you cycle, stick to very quiet rural roads or designated trails in nature reserves like Ajloun.
  • Rentals: Some hotels might offer bicycles for guest use, but general rental shops are scarce.

Accessibility Services

  • The ancient site of Jerash, with uneven terrain and many steps, has significant accessibility challenges.
  • Some flat it's possible that some areas be accessible with robust assistance.
  • Contact the site administration for specific accessibility information.
  • Public mini-buses are generally not wheelchair accessible.
  • Consider private transport options for better accessibility.
  • Plan your visit carefully, considering mobility needs.

Rent vs. Buy Decision Matrix

Rent if...

Short trip, specialized gear, or prefer local maintenance.

Buy if...

Frequent traveler, specific brands, or long-term use.

Hybrid Approach

Buy essentials, rent specialty items. Research availability in the area.

Specialized Transportation

Specialized transportation options are limited in Jerash, mainly focusing on organized tours. No boat taxis, water transportation, cable cars, or funiculars are present in Jerash.

Tour Buses & Organized Travel

  • Many organized day tours from Amman to Jerash use comfortable tour buses.
  • These tours typically include transportation, a guide, and entrance fees.
  • No hop-on-hop-off services operate specifically within Jerash.
  • Booking organized tours through reputable agencies simplifies logistics.

Unique Local Transport

  • No tram, metro, or funicular systems exist in Jerash.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are rare and not generally recommended for touring.
  • No tuk-tuks or jeepneys operate as public transport in Jerash.
  • No boat taxis or water transportation options relevant to Jerash.

Accessibility Services for Mobility Needs

Site Challenges

The ancient site with its uneven terrain, loose gravel, steep inclines, and numerous steps, has significant challenges.

Limited independent access.

Public Transport

Public mini-buses are generally not wheelchair accessible due to high steps and narrow entrances.

Private options are more accessible.

Planning Ahead

Plan your visit carefully. Contact site administration or tour operators for specific accessibility information.

Consider robust assistance.

Inter-City Travel Logistics

JETT Bus Network
  • JETT provides comfortable, scheduled services between major cities.
  • Check their website for routes, schedules, and fares in advance.
  • JETT buses present a more relaxed travel experience compared to local mini-buses.
Local Shared Taxis Servees
  • Servees are budget-friendly options, departing when full from designated stations.
  • They are a communal way to travel and interact with locals.
  • Fares are fixed per person for particular paths, paid directly to the driver.

Important Travel Notes

  • Always verify border regulations from official sources before crossing.
  • Practice defensive driving, especially on local roads and at night.
  • For navigation, a local SIM card with data or offline maps is useful.
  • Consider a zoom lens for distant ruins or wildlife photography.
  • Carry small denominations of JOD for local purchases and tips.
  • Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
  • Maintain comprehensive travel insurance for unexpected situations.
  • Embrace the local culture by dressing conservatively.

Final Tip for Your Journey

Immerse yourself in the historical grandeur of Jerash. Take your time to explore, appreciate the ancient engineering, and connect with the echoes of the past.

Your trip through this extraordinary city will be an unforgettable chapter in your travels through Jordan.