Can you Travel from Jordan to Israel?

Yes, tourists can easily cross from Jordan to Israel through three official border crossings. Most travelers choose this route to combine visits to Petra’s ancient ruins with Jerusalem’s historical sites, or to explore the diverse landscapes of both countries in a single trip.

The journey involves straightforward border procedures, though timing, costs, and crossing points require careful planning. Each border crossing offers different advantages depending on your destination and travel schedule. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, understanding the practical details makes your Jordan-to-Israel journey smooth and efficient.

Three Border Crossings Gateway Options

The Sheikh Hussein Bridge serves as the northern crossing, connecting Jordan’s Irbid region with Israel’s Beit She’an area. This crossing operates Sunday through Thursday from 8:00 am (08:00) to 8:00 pm (20:00), with Friday hours from 8:00 am (08:00) to 3:00 pm (15:00). Saturday hours run 8:00 am (08:00) to 2:00 pm (14:00).

The crossing closes during major holidays including Yom Kippur and Muslim New Year. Border facilities maintain professional security standards while processing international travelers efficiently. Documentation requirements remain consistent across all operational days.

Allenby Bridge King Hussein

The central Allenby Bridge crossing connects Amman with Jerusalem and the West Bank. Operating hours are Sunday through Thursday 8:00 am (08:00) to midnight, Friday 8:00 am (08:00) to 3:00 pm (15:00), and Saturday 8:00 am (08:00) to 2:00 pm (14:00). This route serves travelers heading to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, or other West Bank destinations.

Many organized tours prefer this crossing due to its proximity to major tourist sites. The bridge handles significant daily traffic from business travelers, pilgrims, and tourists exploring regional historical attractions. Professional staff assist with documentation and procedures throughout operational hours.

Wadi Araba Crossing

The southernmost option links Aqaba with Eilat, ideal for combining Red Sea destinations with desert exploration. This crossing maintains similar operating hours and provides the most direct route between Jordan’s southern attractions and Israel’s resort city of Eilat. Travelers often use this point to transition from Jordanian desert tours to Israeli beach destinations.

The crossing accommodates tourists exploring archaeological sites in southern Jordan before continuing to Israeli resorts. Processing times tend to be shorter than northern crossings due to lower traffic volumes. Facilities include currency exchange services and transportation assistance for onward travel.

Transport to Border Crossings

Taxi services from Amman to Allenby Bridge cost approximately 25-35 JOD ($35-50 USD), while bus services from Tabarbor Terminal offer budget-friendly alternatives. Private tour companies arrange comprehensive transport packages including border assistance and onward connections. Professional drivers understand border procedures and timing requirements.

Shuttle services operate regular schedules between major cities and border points, providing cost-effective options for independent travelers. Many hotels coordinate transport arrangements, ensuring guests reach crossings during optimal hours for smooth processing.

Border Procedures and Documentation

U.S. citizens need a passport valid for at least six months beyond their planned departure date. Your passport requires at least one blank page for Israeli entry stamps. Jordan imposes an exit tax of 10 JOD ($14 USD), payable in Jordanian dinars, U.S. dollars, or Israeli shekels.

European travelers follow similar requirements, though EU citizens can use their national ID cards for Jordan entry if arriving by land from Israel. Latin American visitors should verify specific visa requirements, as some nationalities need advance approval.

Israeli border officials may ask about your travel plans, accommodation details, and departure arrangements. Prepare contact information for your Israeli accommodation and return travel documentation. The entire crossing process typically takes 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on crowds and security protocols.

Electronic Travel Authorization

Israel introduced the ETA-IL system for eligible nationalities, allowing online visa applications. U.S. citizens can apply online, paying approximately $25 USD for tourist visas. Processing takes 72 hours, making advance applications essential. European citizens from most EU countries qualify for visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival services.

Border officials retain your Jordan exit stamp and provide Israeli entry documentation. Keep all paperwork safe, as you’ll need these documents for hotel check-ins and potential security checks. Digital copies provide backup security for important travel documents.

Costs Timing and VIP Services

Standard border crossing involves the 10 JOD Jordan exit tax plus any applicable Israeli visa fees. Shuttle services between border terminals cost 7 JOD ($10 USD) or 35 NIS, though walking remains free for able-bodied travelers. VIP services expedite processing for 85 JOD ($120 USD), including fast-track processing, private shuttle transport, and dedicated assistance.

Budget travelers should expect total crossing costs of 15-25 JOD ($20-35 USD) per person, excluding transport to the border. Premium services can reach 100 JOD ($140 USD) but significantly reduce waiting times and eliminate queue uncertainty.

Peak crossing times occur Sunday through Thursday mornings between 9:00 am (09:00) and 11:00 am (11:00), when tour groups and business travelers concentrate their movements. Friday afternoon crossings experience heavy traffic due to weekend travel patterns.

Currency and Payment Methods

Border facilities accept Jordanian dinars, U.S. dollars, and Israeli shekels for most fees. Exchange services operate at major crossings, though rates may be less favorable than banks. Credit cards aren’t universally accepted for border fees, making cash essential.

Bring small bills for taxi tips, porter services, and incidental expenses. Many travelers carry mixed currency to avoid unfavorable exchange rates during border processing. ATMs are available at larger crossing points for currency needs.

Transport Options and Logistics

Organized tours provide comprehensive door-to-door service, handling all border procedures while you relax. Companies like Abraham Tours and Tourist Israel offer day trips from Amman to Jerusalem, including transport, border assistance, and guided tours. Prices range from $180-250 USD per person for full-day experiences.

Independent travelers can hire private taxis for border runs, costing 60-100 JOD ($85-140 USD) for Amman to Jerusalem transfers. Shared taxi services reduce costs but operate on fixed schedules that may not align with your preferences.

Car Rental Restrictions

Rental cars cannot cross between Jordan and Israel due to insurance limitations and security policies. Travelers must return Jordan rental vehicles before crossing and arrange new Israeli rentals if needed. This restriction makes organized tours or taxi services more practical for most visitors.

Public bus connections exist between major cities and border crossings, offering budget options for backpackers and independent travelers. Routes from Amman to Allenby Bridge cost 2-3 JOD ($3-4 USD) but require additional transport on the Israeli side.

Flight connections between Amman and Tel Aviv operate daily, bypassing land border procedures entirely. Royal Jordanian and Israeli carriers provide 45-minute flights costing $200-400 USD, suitable for travelers prioritizing convenience over cost.

Tour Services and Organized Travel

Professional tour operators specialize in Jordan-Israel combinations, managing all logistics while providing historical context and cultural insights. These services particularly benefit first-time visitors unfamiliar with border procedures or regional geography. Experienced guides navigate complex crossing requirements while sharing regional knowledge.

Full-day tours from Amman to Jerusalem include border crossing assistance, transport, guided walking tours of the Old City, and return arrangements. Prices start around $200 USD per person for group tours, while private experiences reach $400-600 USD for personalized attention.

Multi-day packages combine Petra visits with Israeli destinations, creating comprehensive Middle Eastern experiences. These tours handle accommodation booking, meal arrangements, and cultural site entries, eliminating individual planning requirements. Professional coordination ensures seamless transitions between countries and cultural sites.

Tour guides provide valuable context about shared histories, religious significance, and cultural connections between Jordan and Israel. Their expertise enhances understanding of complex regional relationships while ensuring smooth border transitions.

Safety Considerations and Current Conditions

Both Jordan and Israel maintain stable security environments with professional border management. Political tensions occasionally affect crossing hours or procedures, making current information essential for travel planning. The 1994 peace treaty between Jordan and Israel established formal diplomatic relations and secure border protocols.

Border security involves standard document checks, luggage screening, and brief interviews about travel purposes. Cooperation with officials and patience during procedures ensure smooth crossings. Photography restrictions apply near border facilities and military installations.

Emergency services operate at all crossing points, with medical facilities available for health issues. Travel insurance should cover both countries, as medical costs can be substantial without proper coverage. Regional tensions may temporarily affect border operations during significant political events.

Monitor current conditions through official sources and consider flexible travel dates during uncertain periods. Embassy websites provide updated information about border status and security conditions affecting tourist travel.

Frequently Asked Questions