Crossing the Allenby / King Hussein Bridge – How to Visit Jordan and Israel By Land

July 22, 2023 by admin

The border between Israel and its neighbours is one of the most militarized ones in the world. You may think that it is imposible to cross and and that a flight would be preferable… but you would be wrong. This is an often forgotten way to travel between both countries.

Note: This Border Crossing Operates by Bus Shuttle Only!

The Israel/Jordan Border and the Allenby / King Hussein Bridge

This bridge is located on the road linking two capitals Jerusalem and Amman. It crosses the Jordan River the border between Israel and Jordan. It is currently the only overland crossing between both countries. The crossing itself involves a bus fair. You cannot cross with a rental car since this is a military zone.

Can Tourists Cross?

Yes, it is a popular misconception since the bridge is not regularly used by tourists that are not part of a tour group. Just make sure to check if there are closures as the crossing can close when geopolitical tensions are high.

How to Cross the Border (and what method of Transportation is Accepted)?

The process of crossing the border can be a little difficult if you are not passing though on one of the big tour buses. The processes to get from Jerusalem to Amman or vice will take three buses if you are going by public transportation. For example if leaven from Amman, you must take a buss to Site A where you will enter a processing office for the border. Once processed by customs they will put you on the shuttle bus across the bridge. From Site B you will be able to take transportation to Jerusalem. Lots of work for such a narrow river!

I would have taken pictures of the crossing for this post but since this is a Militarized zone, no pictures were allowed.

Please not these are the most up to date hours that the

Sunday-Thursday open 07:30 – 22:00
Friday and Saturday open 07:30 – 13:00

How to Get to Other Points of Interest After Crossing?

Site A, on the Jordanian side has a host of car rental companies and buses heading to Amman. It is easy to get around from here.

From the Israeli side at Site B, you have little options but the bus and taxis. The bus will take you to the surrounding towns, including Jericho but it is probably best if you take the bus directly to Jerusalem if you wish to explore the West Bank. From there you can rent a car or hire a driver.

What do I Need to Bring with me?

Bring your passport and enough money to cover you exit fee as well as the cross border bus. Israeli or Jordanian currency is accepted.

Car Rental and Returns

As previously mentioned there are car rental locations on the Jordanian side of the Border and not on the West Bank side. Please plan around this.

Points of Interest

There is a wealth of things to do near the boder. I do caution that without a car, it may be difficult to either visit or enjoy these areas as public transit to them or within their region is limited. This includes Jericho which is more spread out then you would think in terms of attractions (and the cabs will rip you off because they know you are a tourist). One exception to this is the city of Madaba, known for its Byzantine mosaic, incs.

Jericho (West Bank, Israel) – A biblical city known for its archaeological finds
Bethel of Jesus Baptismal Site (Jordan) – I think the name speaks for itself, baptismal site on the Jordan river.
Northern Dead Sea (Jordan) – While Israel has most of its resorts in the South, Jordan has theirs in the north, near the border crossing. Come float on the worlds saltiest body of water!
Madaba and Mount Nemo (Jordan) – Known for its religious history (eg Moses looking out at the “Land of Milk and Honey”) and byzantine mosaics, including one famed map of the Holy Land.
As-Salt (Jordan) – An important Ottoman town of cultural and historical significance.