Car Rental in Madaba, Jordan

Where to drive

• Mount Nebo: A short 15-minute drive (approx. 10 km) from Madaba, offering panoramic views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and on a clear day, even Jerusalem.
• Dead Sea: Drive about 45 minutes (approx. 50 km) to the lowest point on Earth for a unique floating experience and therapeutic mud baths.
• Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Baptism Site): Approximately 1 hour drive (approx. 60 km) from Madaba, this revered pilgrimage site is where John the Baptist is believed to have baptized Jesus.
• Petra: While a longer journey, Petra is accessible by car in about 3 hours (approx. 230 km) from Madaba, making it a feasible day trip or an overnight stay for an unforgettable adventure.
• Amman Citadel and Roman Theater: Jordan's capital, Amman, is only about 40 minutes away (approx. 35 km), perfect for exploring its historical landmarks and vibrant city life.
• Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve: Drive about 1 hour and 15 minutes (approx. 65 km) to experience adventurous canyoning and hiking through stunning natural gorges.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Jordan, you typically need a valid passport, a national driving license from your home country, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP is usually mandatory and must accompany your national license. The minimum age for renting is generally 21 years old, and some companies may require drivers to have held their license for at least one or two years.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Madaba vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 USD per day during the low season, while SUVs and larger family cars could range from 45-70 USD. Premium vehicles can exceed 100 USD daily. Prices tend to be highest during the peak tourist seasons of spring and autumn, and lowest in the summer and winter months.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Jordan, driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally around 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 100-120 km/h on highways, though these can vary and should always be observed from road signs. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is effectively zero. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child car seats are required for children under a certain age or height, typically up to around 4 years old or 135 cm tall, and must be appropriate for their size and weight. Headlights are generally recommended for use during the day, especially outside of urban areas, and are mandatory at night or in poor visibility.

Parking

In Madaba, parking can be found on streets, often free of charge, especially outside the very central areas. In busier spots, you might find designated paid parking lots or attendants who will guide you to a spot for a small fee. Always ensure you are not blocking traffic or entrances. In larger cities like Amman, paid parking garages and street parking meters are more common.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Jordan, including Madaba and along major routes. Unleaded petrol (gasoline) and diesel are the main types of fuel. Credit cards are usually accepted at most larger stations, but it's always wise to have some Jordanian Dinars (JOD) in cash, especially at smaller or more rural stations. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across the country, with unleaded petrol costing approximately 0.90 to 1.10 JOD per liter (as of 2026).

Which car to choose

For exploring Madaba and its immediate surroundings, a compact or economy car with automatic transmission is generally sufficient and easier to navigate through city streets. However, if you plan to venture into more rugged areas, like parts of Wadi Mujib or some desert routes, an SUV or a 4x4 vehicle would be more suitable for better ground clearance and comfort. For longer road trips across Jordan, a mid-size sedan offers a good balance of comfort and fuel efficiency.

Frequently asked questions