Highlights of Jordan: Desert, Ruins and Beach

10 Days from $6,490 USD / person

Adventure & Outdoors

Beaches

Heritage & Culture

Nature & Landscapes

Ideal For

Adventure & Outdoors

Beaches

Heritage & Culture

Nature & Landscapes

Itinerary Summary

Day

Place

Hotel Opts

1 – 3

Amman
Highlights: Culture & Heritage, Madaba Archaeological Park, Mt Nebo, Al-Karak Castle, Ruins of Jerash

W Amman
The Ritz-Carlton Amman

3 – 5

Dead Sea
Highlights: Relaxation & Spa, Nature & Landscape, Al Maghtas Baptism site

Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa
Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea

5 – 6

Petra
Highlights: Culture & History, Architecture, Hiking & Landscape

Petra Canyon Hotel
Mövenpick Resort Petra

6 – 7

Wadi Rum
Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage site, Nature & Landscape, Adventure

Memories Aicha Luxury Camp
Memories Aicha Luxury Camp

7 – 10

Red Sea / Aqaba
Highlights: Beaches, Snorkeling & Diving, Relaxation

Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea
Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort

10 – 10

Amman
Highlights: Culture & Heritage, Madaba Archaeological Park, Mt Nebo, Al-Karak Castle, Ruins of Jerash

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Itinerary Details

Day 1 – 3

2 Nights

Amman

Amman is one of the best cities to enjoy a really diverse Middle East experience before exploring the rest of Jordan. The best way to explore this fascinating city is on foot. Nestled at the bottom of the city’s many hills and the majestic Citadel, Downtown Amman is a must-see. It features a spectacular Roman theater, an international museum of contemporary art and a number of mosques, architecture, souqs (typical markets) and vibrant coffee houses that are central to Jordanian life. The backstreets of the city are filled with colorful local food markets and tiny shops selling different kinds of handmade crafts. You could also step out and explore the creative mosaic street art of Rainbow Street and stop by its bustling cafes and restaurants. The western part of Amman has leafy residential districts, cafes, bars, modern malls and art galleries, while in the east of the city, you can delve deeper into the capital’s rich traditions and history.

Included activities

Personalized City Tour of Amman

Discover Amman, Jordan’s alluring capital, a modern city that maintains its Middle Eastern flair. Drive downtown, which is dominated by the ancient Roman Theater with a 6,000-person capacity. View the flight of steps leading to the stage and learn about the theater’s excellent acoustics. Your guide will point out the three seating areas clearly marked for royalty, military and commoners. Next, visit the Folklore Museum that exhibits traditional attire, jewelry and mosaics. There is also a Bedouin goat-hair tent, with displays of weapons, tools, musical instruments and coffee grinders. Afterward, ascend Jabal al-Qala’a or ‘Citadel Hill’, the site of the Umayyad Palace. Enter the complex through a domed hall, decorated with stucco colonnettes and Persian-style geometric patterns. Beyond, the colonnaded street leads to the administrative and residential quarters of the Governor of Amman. Finally, stop by the Nymphaeum, an elaborate public fountain built in AD 191, before the tour winds up. (Duration: half day; Time: 0900/1400 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Entry fees are included; Meals included: no; Fitness level: easy; Please note that the afternoon tour can be combined with the Amman by night tour)

Personalized Amman by Night Tour

Experience Amman’s nightlife on this guided tour. This experience can be tweaked to suit your interests. You could drive past the ‘Circles of Amman’, a series of eight roundabouts that run along the downtown area. From the Roman Nymphaeum in the historic center, visit the Souk Al-Sukar. Here, you will find numerous shops selling fresh produce, dry fruits, perfumes, gold ornaments and brightly colored garments. Continue onward to Jabal Amman, one of the seven hills that originally made up the metropolis and has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. You may hear the muezzin’s beautiful call to prayer, as you proceed toward Rainbow Street. Explore this bohemian area that is lined with art galleries, cafes and boutiques. Then visit the legendary Hashem Restaurant, an Amman institution. Try classic Jordanian street food specialties including falafel, hummus, ful medames and moutabel before the tour wraps up. (Duration: 2-3 hrs; Time: 1700 hrs or later; Private activity & transfers; Entry fees are included; Meals included: traditional snacks and non-alcoholic beverages; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy; Please note that this tour can be combined with an afternoon city tour)

Personalized Jerash and Ajloun Castle Tour

Explore Jordan’s archaeological treasures on this day trip. Journey north of Amman to Jerash, a Roman city, also known as the ‘Pompeii of the East’. Set in the bowl of a valley, the expansive site of Jerash is reached by crossing a bridge over the River Zarqa. Enter through the South Gate and follow your guide over 2,000-year-old cobblestone paths that lead to Hadrian’s Arch, Oval Plaza and South Theater. Vantage points along the way offer bird’s eye-views of the surrounding eucalyptus and olive groves. Visit the temples of Zeus and Artemis, and the Hippodrome that could seat 15,000 spectators. Pause at the Forum, an oval-shaped plaza encircled by 56 unfluted Ionic columns, which served as a marketplace. Next, drive to Ajloun Castle that boasts a strategic hilltop location. A fine example of Islamic military architecture, it was built as a fortification against invading Crusaders. In the warren of chambers and galleries, learn about this iconic landmark’s history through interactive displays, before heading back. (Duration: full day; Time: 0900 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Entry fees are included; Meals included: lunch at local restaurant; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy)

Personalized Cooking Class at Beit Sitti

Learn to prepare an Arabic feast at Beit Sitti, an estate in Amman’s trendy Jabal Al-Weibdeh neighborhood. This family business keeps alive their ancestral culinary legacy. Upon arrival at the villa, your host will introduce themselves and offer you a refreshing beverage. Then, put on your apron, wash your hands and get ready for your class to begin. Under your instructor’s guidance you will make a salad, side dish, main course and dessert, which is easy to replicate at home. Begin by chopping vegetables and crushing garlic. Taste an array of spices and other ingredients, while learning to make local dishes. Finally, head to the terrace to dine al fresco, surrounded by scenic city views. Gain insight into Jordanian culture as you dig into your delicious meal. (Duration: half day; Time: 1000/1500 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Entry fees are included; Meals included: lunch/dinner; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy)

Hotel options

W Amman – Opt 1

Room Wonderful Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

The Ritz-Carlton Amman – Opt 2

Room Club Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Day 3 – 5

2 Nights

Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is a landlocked salt lake that lies between Jordan to the east and the West Bank and Israel to the west. It is the lowest body of water on the surface of the earth and its shores mark the lowest point on land. Standing at the water’s edge, you’ll notice the rocks and sand shimmering because of crystalized sodium chloride. The water here is 10 times saltier than the ocean, making it too salty for life. Therefore it is alternatively known as the Sea of Death, Salt Sea, and Sea of Lot. The salt does have its benefits though, transforming these waters into a natural spa. The dark brown mineral rich mud is great for skin ailments. It is believed that the minerals here were even used by the ancient Egyptians for mummification. The salt also makes the water so buoyant; you can float effortlessly on the surface while gazing at the mountains and mesas of Jordan.

Included activities

Personalized Tour of Bethany, Mount Nebo and Madaba

Explore some of Jordan’s holiest sites on this full day tour. Head out from your Red Sea hotel in the morning with your guide and travel to Bethany Beyond the Jordan, located near the southern end of the Jordan River. Your guide will tell you about the history of the site where John the Baptist preached, and where Jesus was baptized. Then, depart for Madaba to see its spectacular Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics. In particular, your guide will direct you to the sixth century Mosaic Map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land that is part of a floor mosaic in the church of Saint George. Visit the Madaba Institute for Mosaic Art and Restoration before having lunch at Haret Jdoudna. Then continue on to Mount Nebo, the mountaintop memorial of Moses. Take in the vast church complex and enjoy views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea before returning to your hotel. (Duration: full day; Time: 0900 hrs; Travel time to activity: 1 hr; Private activity & transfers; Meals included: lunch; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Entry fees are included; Fitness level: easy; Can be visited en route from Amman to the the Dead Sea and vice versa)

Hotel options

Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa – Opt 1

Room Sea View

Meals Breakfast

Style Beach Resort

Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea – Opt 2

Room Junior Suite

Meals Breakfast

Style Beach Resort

Day 5 – 6

1 Night

Petra

The remarkable sandstone city of Petra was built in the third century BC by the Nabataeans, a community of master builders who carved palaces, temples and tombs from the soft stone cliffs. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site accessible from the adjacent town of Wadi Musa. The Ancient City is a treasure trove of architectural wonders and you can discover remnants of its past as you walk along the high-walled Siq and several hiking trails. Take in the stunning landscape and see some of Petra’s most spectacular sights including the iconic Treasury, Theater and Monastery. Take the path up to the Royal tombs to see some of the best carvings in Petra and then go up to the three-storied Palace tomb to enjoy some tea, with a side of panoramic views. Wind your way back down to enjoy some hot dishes and fresh salads in the restaurants below. You could also visit Al Deir, or the Monastery, perched atop a rock-cut staircase.

Included activities

Personalized Tour of Petra

Discover the ancient city of Petra on this tour. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the Visitor Center to start your tour. Walk through the Siq canyon until you catch your first sight of the Treasury, the city’s most iconic structure. It was carved out of the sandstone mountains to serve as a tomb for the Nabataean King Aretas III. Your guide will tell you all about Petra’s history as you discover the Royal Tombs and explore the Roman ruins. See the Street of Facades, which features tombs and houses built into the mountainside more than 2000 years ago. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant before the tour wraps up. (Duration: half day; Time: 0900/1400 hrs; Private activity & transfers; no meals included; Entry fees are included; Fitness level: moderate, please note that people with physical limitations can participate as long as they have someone to provide assistance; Can be visited en route from Amman or Dead Sea to Wadi Rum or Red Sea and vice versa)

Personalized Tour of Little Petra

Explore the Siq Al-Barid, also known as Little Petra. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel at a time of your choosing and take you to Little Petra, which is just 10 minutes north of Petra by road. Start with the classical temple that stands guard outside. Follow the narrow path that extends through the 400 m long Siq while your guide tells you about the tombs, temples and houses that line the way. Continue towards the Painted House. The frescoes of vines, flowers and birds on the underside of the interior arch are rare examples of Nabataean painting. Climb the steps at the end of the Siq for great views of the landscape before returning to your hotel. (Duration: 2 hrs; Private activities & transfers; Meals are not included; Entry fees are included; Fitness level: easy; Can be visited en route from Amman or Dead Sea to Wadi Rum or Red Sea)

Hotel options

Petra Canyon Hotel – Opt 1

Room Junior Suite

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Mövenpick Resort Petra – Opt 2

Room Superior Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 6 – 7

1 Night

Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is located along the western edge of the Arabian desert in the south of Jordan. It is a four-hour drive from Amman, the capital of Jordan, and about an hour’s drive from Aqaba on the coast. This otherworldly landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and occupies an area nearly the size of New York City, making it the largest wadi (valley) in Jordan. Filled with huge rock formations and rippled sand dunes, it has a distinctive red color that is caused by iron oxide, earning it the nickname Mars on Earth (the 2015 film The Martian was shot here). Wadi Rum is also home to more than 20,000 petroglyphs and 20,000 inscriptions that trace 12,000 years of human history. Bedouin, nomadic Arab people, continue to live in the villages and deserts here, moving from one place to another.

Included activities

Personalized Bedouin Experience

Venture into the moonscape terrain of the UNESCO-listed Wadi Rum on this private tour. Begin your adventure with an off-road jeep drive through the sandstone and granite valley. Along the way, your guide will tell you about the rich history and geology of this protected area. The region is home to pre-historic trails, petroglyphs, and traditional Bedouin settlements. You will pass water holes and dramatic rock formations carved by the elements over millions of years. Take a break to visit with a Bedouin family. Watch as they show you the traditional way in which they make bread, and sample a cup of flavorful local tea. You will also learn interesting facts about Arabic coffee and the rules of drinking the brew. Afterward, you have the option of joining the family to cook a typical Arabic meal. Dine on what you helped prepare, before the tour winds up. (Duration: 3 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Meals included: yes; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Entry fees are included; Fitness level: easy; Can be visited en route from Amman, Petra or Dead Sea to Red Sea (Aqaba) or vice versa)

Personalized Jeep Tour of Wadi Rum

Experience the rugged desert landscape of the UNESCO-listed Wadi Rum on this jeep tour. Set off in a comfortable jeep to the sandstone and granite valley. Enjoy an off-road drive across the moonscape-like terrain. Along the way, your guide will tell you about the rich history and geology of this protected area. The region is home to pre-historic trails, petroglyphs, and traditional Bedouin settlements. You will pass water holes and dramatic rock formations carved over millions of years. The natural arches, canyons, and mountain tops have featured in numerous movies including ‘Lawrence of Arabia’, ‘The Martian’, and ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’. From vantage spots, take in panoramic views of the arid terrain colored in various hues by different oxides. After driving across the undulating terrain for a couple of hours, head back to your hotel. (Duration: 3 hrs; Time: morning/afternoon; Private activity & transfers; Entry fees are included; Fitness level: easy; Can be visited en route from Amman, Petra or Dead Sea to Red Sea (Aqaba) or vice versa)

Hotel options

Memories Aicha Luxury Camp – Opt 1

Room Executive Luxury Tent

Meals Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner)

Style Camp

Memories Aicha Luxury Camp – Opt 2

Room Panoramic Luxury Tent

Meals Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner)

Style Camp

Day 7 – 10

3 Nights

Red Sea / Aqaba

Aqaba, which lies on the northern tip of the Red Sea, is the only coastal city in Jordan. It has been inhabited for more than 4,000 years and boasts a rich history. In bygone years, it sat at the confluence of trade and pilgrimage routes from Egypt and Arabia. Today, its main attractions are the coastline, beaches, and watersports such as diving and snorkeling. The waters here are home to an array of colorful fish and are so clear that you can even see these creatures from the shore. The cool evenings are perfect for a stroll around the city. On weekends, you could browse the small souq for wares made by local artisans. Aqaba also makes for a convenient base from which to explore nearby attractions. Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Bethlehem, and Sinai are all just a day trip away.

Included activities

Personalized Tour of House of Roses Ladies Association

On this immersive tour, learn about the women’s empowerment projects conducted by the Houses of Roses Ladies Association. At a convenient time, you will be driven to the center located in the city of Aqaba. Along the way, your guide will familiarize you with the community initiatives undertaken by the association. Learn how the Rose House provides training to local women and the differently abled to finesse their marketable skills and boost income. You will also get to know the history of the Rose House. At the facility, see displays of traditional handicrafts, ceramics, and food items made by artisans and home-based entrepreneurs. You could try your hand at baking bread or cooking regional delicacies in the association’s kitchen. Enjoy a delicious meal and tea before the tour ends. (Duration: 2 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Meals included: Lunch or dinner incl. drinking water and tea; Fitness level: easy)

Explore the Red Sea on your own

If you have the time and the weather allows it, we recommend visiting Aqaba on the shores of the Red Sea in Jordan. This beach town is a great location for diving. You can book a dive to explore the world’s first underwater military museum, complete with multiple tanks, a troop carrier, anti aircraft guns, and a combat helicopter. For a more traditional diving experience, head to the Japanese garden dive site. Here, you will find shallow depths, coral formations, Hawksbill turtles and plenty of fish. Golfers can book a tee-time at Ayla Golf Course, Jordan’s first 18-hole par 72 layout that is one of the top three ranked eco-friendly golf courses in the world. Visit the Aqaba Aquarium to discover the marine life of the Red Sea. Explore the collection of Islamic artifacts at The Aqaba Archaeological Museum located in the Aqaba house of Sharif Hussein Bin Al. You can also see the site of a recent archaeological discovery that is thought to be the world’s oldest church, dating to the late 3rd century AD. On Fridays, enjoy the Souq by the Sea, which features over 50 local artisans, live music, and plenty of food and drink. (Duration: half day or full day; This is an unguided, independent activity; Entrance fees, transfers and meals are not included; Depending on your personal itinerary, weather conditions and time available to you, it may not be possible to do all recommended activities)

Hotel options

Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea – Opt 1

Room Deluxe

Meals Breakfast

Style Beach Resort

Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort – Opt 2

Room Marina View

Meals Breakfast

Style Beach Resort

Day 10 – 10

Amman

Explore Jordan in-depth on this 10-day-long tour through some of the country’s most famous sites. From stunning ancient ruins to thrilling desert safaris and relaxing beach stays, this Jordan tour offers something for everyone. Begin in the capital city of Amman, a modern metropolis that has retained its traditional Middle Eastern flair. Enjoy personalized tours of its castles, citadel and bustling downtown by day and night with our experienced local guides. The Dead Sea, only a short hour-long drive away, is your next destination. This landlocked saltwater lake is known for its mineral-rich mud and restorative properties, making it an excellent relaxation and spa destination for you. Also, take a privately guided tour of the baptism site of ”Bethany Beyond the Jordan”, one of the holiest Christian sites in the country where Jesus of Nazareth was baptised. Your next stop is the world-renowned ruins of Petra, once a thriving city on the ancient Silk Route from the Orient to the Occident. Marvel at the 2000-year-old, rock-carved treasury, monastery and other buildings as you wander the winding Al-Siq with your private guide. The moon-like landscape of UNESCO-listed Wadi Rum has featured on many a blockbuster movie, including Lawrence of Arabia and Dune. Discover this mighty desert on a exciting jeep tour and also visit Bedouin settlements and learn about their rich history and traditions. The last few days of this Jordan tour are spent by the Red Sea in Aqaba, where you can sunbathe, swim and snorkel to your heart’s content! Would you like to see more of Jordan or combine your trip with another destination in the Middle East? Contact us for a customized travel itinerary – private, tailor-made and obligation-free.

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

From $6,490 USD / person

Option 2

From $7,390 USD / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone

Not Included

Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
Tips and personal expenses
Visa and tourism fees
Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
International airfare

What Our Guests Say

Hmm.. so many positives but let me say this.. in a post – but still covid era- it’s stressful traveling, so many tests, forms, etc, but going with this professional, excellent company made my wife and my forget about how much work goes into JUST RELAXING & ENJOYING! Thank you enchanting

Paul Greenaway

USA

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