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Jordan: The Highlights

April 17-28, 2024 | US$ 3,390

US$ 3,390 per person sharing (international airfare not included)

From the historic capital of Amman, to the phenomenon of the Dead Sea, to the magnificence of Petra, to the deserts of Wadi Rum — this is Jordan!  Explore these iconic sites – including magnificent Petra – with guides Ed & Norilynn who lived there.  Remnants of Greco-Roman cities and Biblical landmarks make the the journey to this ancient land a rewarding one.

April 17, 2024: Flight to Amman, Jordan

Your international flight takes you to Amman, Jordan (arriving April 17). Upon arrival, Ed & Norilynn will welcome you with cold face towels, before driving you to the nearby Khan Khediwe Hotel located in a great part of the city and near the airport.

April 18, 19: Jerash, Ajloun, & the Desert Castles

After breakfast, your guide will drive you to Jebel al-Qala’a (the Citadel), with its remains of the Roman Temple of Hercules, and excellent views over the city.  The National Archaeological Museum, home to ancient findings from the whole country, is located on the Citadel grounds. Continue to the impressive Roman Theater, the largest in Jordan, with room for 6,000 spectators. The small Folklore Museum and Museum of Popular Traditions are adjacent to the Theater. Free time for walking/shopping in bustling markets of the downtown area, locally known as al-Balad.  Proceed to visit the Greco-Roman City of Jerash, also known as the City of the thousand columns.  Return to Khan Khediwe Hotel for the night.

Jebel

April 20, 21: Madaba, Mt. Nebo & the Dead Sea

Visit the Christian Town of Madaba, which is known as ‘The City of Mosaics’.  Spend time at the St. George Greek Orthodox Church where you will see the masterpiece of Madaba (a Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land that goes back to the 6th century, showing Jerusalem and other cities).   Take a detour to Mt. Nebo, which is considered to be one of the most important holy sites in Jordan, as it is believed to be the place where Moses climbed from the Valley of Moab, and from where God showed him the Promised Land.  Mount Nebo features ruins from the 4th to the 6th century with marvellous mosaics adorning the grounds of the church still visible. Continue to visit the Baptism Site “Bethany beyond the Jordan”, the site where John the Baptist lived and baptized. It is believed that Jesus was baptized here and the area formed part of the early Christian pilgrimage route between Jerusalem, the Jordan River, and Mount Nebo.  Then, proceed to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on the surface of the earth for a swim in its warm, salty waters.  Enjoy some free time at your leisure at the Dead Sea. Overnight at the Russian Pilgrim Residence Hotel.

nebo

April 22, 23: Kerak and Petra

After a delicious breakfast, drive to city of Kerak, where you will visit the Crusader’s Castle, with its diverse history dated from the Byzantine to the Mamluk period.  Proceed to Shobak to visit the massive Crusader’s fortress, which was strategically located on a hill along the pilgrimage and caravan routes from Syria to Arabia. Perched in a wild, remote landscape, it is especially imposing when seen from a distance.

Continue to Petra, where you will start your exploration of Petra, aptly described as the “Rose-Red city, half as old as time”. The ancient city was founded by the Nabateans 2000 years ago. Its massive architectural structure and its multicoloured stones are an incredible attraction. The visit starts on horseback, followed by a walk through the Siq, a long narrow fissure between two overhanging cliffs. Towards the end of the Siq, you will be spellbound by Petra’s most famous monument; the Treasury.  Return to the Petra Guesthouse for dinner and the night.

crusaders-castle

April 24: Beida and Wadi Rum

Today, you will proceed to Beida, also known as Little Petra and the place where the Nabateans used to entertain their guests.  Continue south to the enchanting desert of Wadi Rum, Jordan’s largest desert, and one of the most spectacular desert landscapes in the world. Enjoy a 4×4 Bedouin Jeep Tour inside the Wadi, covering its highlights. Watch the most beautiful view while drinking a cup of traditional Bedouin tea. Transfer to Sharah Luxury Tented Camp for dinner and the night.

 

Sharah

April 25, 26, 27: Aqaba to Amman

After breakfast, drive to Aqaba, Jordan’s window on the Red Sea.  On the edge of the Gulf and surrounded by desert mountains, Aqaba enjoys a pleasant climate year-round.  It is well known for its beach resorts, sandy beaches, and Scuba diving in one of the world’s best-preserved coral reefs.  On the 26th, you will have a free day to explore the area, spending time on the beach, swimming, or shopping in the numerous markets.  Enjoy three nights at the iconic Oryx Hotel with excellent views of the surrounding vistas.

Aqaba

April 28: Amman Departure Flight

After one last breakfast together, transfer back to the Amman airport in time for your international flight home, with memories of a unique adventure that will last a lifetime!

Included for this tour:

  • En-suite accommodations (based on double occupancy) with breakfasts and dinner included daily.
  • Exclusive transport in air conditioned vehicles with guaranteed window seat.
  • Services of exceptional English-speaking guides, knowledgeable of local region and culture.
  • Long-range radio communication (and access to mobile phone) for the duration of the trip.
  • Complimentary bottled drinking water.
  • Daily tour briefings.
  • All park entry fees, conservation fees, airport transfers, and departure taxes.
  • Leadership in ethical, socially responsible practices.
  • Two hour desert Jeep tour in Wadi Rum.
  • Complimentary hotel porters at your hotels
  • Complete pre-departure information including packing lists, trip itinerary, and flight details.

Not included for this tour:

  • International airfare.
  • Travel/medical/cancellation/interruption insurance.
  • Single Supplement (if you would like your own room).
  • Gratuities for your drivers.
  • Any optional excursions not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Souvenirs, laundry, and items of a personal nature.

Travel with a purpose on a socially responsible safari.