Classic Jordan

Arrive in Jordan’s lively capital, where a local representative will greet you at the airport and guide you through arrival formalities. You’ll then meet your private driver-escort, who will accompany you throughout your journey. Settle into your hotel in the heart of Amman, ready to begin your discovery of this fascinating country. Though arrival is late, the city’s warm welcome sets the tone for what’s to come - days filled with ancient wonders, sweeping desert landscapes, and rich cultural encounters.

• Hotel Description

This morning, visit downtown Amman to explore its historical sites, including the Citadel, which houses the Roman Temple of Hercules and a small, but interesting archaeological museum. At the foot of Citadel Hill, you will find the Roman Theatre, built in the second century alongside the forum, which was once the city’s marketplace. From there, take a stroll to the downtown area and visit the colourful market, where you can pick up some spices. Enjoy a delicious falafel lunch at the famous Hashem Restaurant, followed by knafeh from Habeba Sweets. In the late afternoon, head to Rainbow Street to enjoy the cafes and street food available along this bustling pedestrian street. (B,L)

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After breakfast, leave the city and head north to the Roman city of Jerash to visit one of the best-preserved ancient Greco-Roman ruins in the Middle East. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, explore this remarkable site. Walk through Hadrian’s Arch along the colonnaded street to the Forum, which is surrounded by Ionic columns, and admire the stunning Temple of Artemis along with the north and south theatres. Continue to Ajloun Castle, which was built in the nearby hills by an Arab general during the Crusades. On your way back, stop in As-Salt, a historically rich small city known for its iconic yellow limestone Ottoman architecture. Take some time to wander through the narrow market streets before returning to Amman. In the evening, have dinner with a local family; it's a great opportunity to share delicious food and exchange stories. (B,D)

• Hotel Description

Your journey today takes you to the famous Nabatean city of Petra, a highlight of any visit to Jordan. Along the Desert Highway, stop at Mount Nebo where on a clear day you may see the golden Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. In Madaba, known for its mosaics, admire the sixth-century Madaba Mosaic Map, the oldest geographical map of the Holy Land, located in St. George’s Church. Next, visit Shobak Castle, the first Crusader castle in Jordan, before reaching Petra via the King’s Highway. In the evening, enjoy Petra by Night and follow a candlelit Siq, to the Treasury. (B)

• Hotel Description

Today, spend a full day in Petra, beginning with a walk from the entrance to the Siq. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, stroll to the Treasury and explore this amazing red rose Nabatean city, taking in the various tombs, palaces, temples, and theatres. In the afternoon, you can further explore the vast site, or if you still have energy after lunch, you may want to climb to the High Place of Sacrifice or visit the magnificent Monastery. Return to the hotel to prepare for a cooking lesson with a Jordanian chef, who will teach you how to prepare a three-course Jordanian dinner. After this shared experience, dine on the dishes you prepared during the lesson. (B,D)
 

• Hotel Description

Today, head into the desert to explore the magnificent dunes and rocky outcrops of Wadi Rum. This vast desert is not only home to stunning natural wonders but also holds historical significance from the Arab Revolt and T.E. Lawrence. Switch to a 4WD, and a local Bedouin guide will take you on a tour of the dunes and small canyons, where you can see ancient petroglyphs and capture plenty of scenic photographs. Back at the camp, take part in an optional sunset camel ride or learn more about the fascinating starry skies during a stargazing session after dinner. Prepare for an amazing night under the stars from your Martian-style dome tent. (B,D)

• Hotel Description

Experience a breathtaking sunrise in the desert, either from your veranda, while riding a camel, or even from a hot air balloon (ask our Jordan specialist about these optional excursions). Reluctantly leave this magical sandpit for another unique experience later in the day. Depart from Wadi Rum and return to the highway, heading north to the Dead Sea. Upon arrival at your hotel, you’ll have the afternoon to rest and relax - enjoy lying back in the salty waters or try some of the therapeutic mud. (B)
 

• Hotel Description

This morning you will be transferred back to Amman Airport for your return flight. (B)