Essential Jordan

Ahlan Wa Sahlan – Welcome to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan! You will be met and be assisted through immigration and customs procedures. Afterwards, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Amman, which is approx a 30-minute drive. Check-in and enjoy some leisure time.

In the evening, meet your fellow travellers as you enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant situated in downtown Amman, offering a taste of authentic Jordanian cuisine. Stay 2 Nights: Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar (D)

• Travel time and Distance: Queen Alla Airport to hotel: Approx. 35 km/ 34 mins drive

After breakfast, drive for approx an hour to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the Middle East. Explore its ancient wonders, including paved streets, colonnaded walkways, majestic temples, and impressive theatres, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Roman civilisation.

Afterwards, return to Amman, and delve into the city's rich history with a guided tour of its historical sites.

Begin at Citadel Hill, where you'll discover dating from the Roman to the early Islamic period and visit the Archaeological Museum to further explore Jordan's heritage

Continue through Amman's bustling downtown area, strolling through the vibrant Souk to experience everyday life in the city. Admire the Roman Theatre, dating back to the 2nd century and boasting a seating capacity of 6,000 spectators.

Stroll through Jabal Amman and Jabal Weibdeh, renowned for their vibrant artistic communities, charming handicraft shops, and delightful restaurants. (B)

• Travel time and distance Jerash to Amman: Approx. 50 km/1-hour drive

Drive to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth 400 metres below sea level. Experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in its buoyant waters, known for their therapeutic properties since the time of Herod the Great. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a Dead Sea resort, taking in the stunning views of this natural wonder.

Afterwards, continue with a scenic drive to Kerak Castle, a remarkable Crusaderfortress perched on a hilltop. Explore its underground passageways and imagine the epic battles that once took place here as forces clashed during the time of Salah Ad-Din's siege.

Next, visit Dana Village, home to Bedouin communities for centuries. Explore the breathtaking views of Jordan's largest nature reserve and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Finally, head to Feynan Ecolodge, nestled in the heart of the desert. Check-in and enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the desert landscape. Hailed as one of the best 25 ecolodges in the world by National Geographic Traveler Magazine, the award-winning, solar-powered Feynan Eco Lodge offers the most developed eco-experience in Jordan; an experience only made possible by a unique partnership between EcoHotels and the RoyalSociety for the Conservation of Nature, a Jordanian NGO devoted to the protection of the Kingdom's finest natural landscapes.

Explore local archaeological sites or simply relax and unwind in the serene courtyards and terraces of the candle-lit complex, safe in the knowledge that your travels in Jordan are socially and environmentally responsible. Stay: Feynan Ecolodge (B/L/D)

• Travel time and distance Dead Sea to Kerak Castle: Approx. 120 km/1.5 hrs drive; Kerak Castle to Dana Village: Approx. 60 km/ 1 hr, 15 mins drive; Dana Village to Feynan Ecolodge: Approx. 90 km/ 2 hrs drive

After breakfast, transfer to Dana, then continue with a scenic drive of approximately one hour to Petra, Jordan's most iconic attraction.

Petra, known as the “Rose City,” was established around the 6th century BC by the Nabataean Arabs, who carved magnificent structures into rose-coloured sandstone cliffs. You'll enter the narrow canyon known as the Siq, a mesmerizing journey leading to Petra's hidden treasures.

As you walk through the Siq, explore the stunning monument known as the Treasury, one of Petra's most iconic structures. Continue along the Street of Facadesto and explore the RoyalTombs and Pharaoh's Castle, each offering a glimpse into Petra's rich history and architectural grandeur.

Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Petra at your own pace, soaking in the majestic beauty of this ancient city. Stay: Petra Guest House or similar (B)

• Travel time and distance Feynan Ecolodge to Dana: Approx. 40 km/ 1 hr drive Dana to Petra: Approx. 95 km/ 1 hr drive

After breakfast at your hotel in Petra, drive approx one and a half hours to Wadi Rum.

Wadi Rum, Jordan's largest wadi, is a breathtaking desert landscape inhabited since prehistoric times. Upon arrival, embark on a thrilling adventure with a 4×4 Jeep tour led by a local Bedouin driver. Explore the rugged terrain, marvel at the ever-changing colours of the sand and mountains and soak in the serene atmosphere that surrounds you. As you traverse through the vast expanse of WadiRum, you'll encounter dramatic canyons, towering red sand dunes, ancient Nabatean rock inscriptions, and natural rock formations, including a stunning rock bridge formed over centuries.

Later, check into your campsite in Wadi Rum, where you'll enjoy a delicious dinner under the desert sky, hopefully, adorned with a canopy of stars, creating a magical ambience for your night in the desert. Stay: Sun City Camp or similar (B/D)

• Travel time and distance Petra Guest House to Wadi Rum: Approx. 105 km/1.5-hour drive

Enjoy breakfast at Wadi Rum and early check out at camp. Return to Amman for your onward flight to your next destination. (We recommend booking an evening flight). (B)