This well-balanced 10-day journey through Jordan combines the country’s ancient history, biblical heritage, dramatic landscapes, and authentic local experiences. From the vibrant capital Amman and the remarkably preserved Roman cities of the north, to the desert castles of the Umayyads, the scenic King’s Highway, the natural beauty of Dana Biosphere Reserve, the wonders of Petra, the timeless desert of Wadi Rum, the Red Sea city of Aqaba, and the unique relaxation of the Dead Sea, this itinerary offers a comprehensive and rewarding exploration of the Kingdom. Carefully paced and thoughtfully designed, the tour blends guided highlights with free time, overnight stays in comfortable hotels and desert camps, and memorable cultural encounters.
Upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport, you will be met by our representative before visa control, holding a sign with your name. Assistance will be provided for arrival formalities and your complimentary Jordanian visa, followed by meeting your driver. Transfer to your hotel in Amman (approximately 30 minutes). The remainder of the day is at leisure, with optional activities available depending on arrival time.
Overnight: Amman Meals: None
After breakfast, depart north to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world and a former member of the Decapolis. Enjoy a guided visit including Hadrian’s Arch, the Hippodrome, the Forum, the Temple of Artemis, the Colonnaded Street, and the Nymphaeum. Continue through forested hills to Ajloun, where you will visit Ajloun Castle (Al-Rabadh Castle), a 12th-century fortress built by Saladin’s generals. Proceed further north to Umm Qais (ancient Gadara), offering panoramic views over the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights, and explore its Roman streets, theatres, and ruins at your own pace. Return to Amman in the late afternoon.
Overnight: Amman Meals: Breakfast
This morning, head east into the desert to explore three significant Umayyad desert castles. Visit Qusayr Amra (UNESCO World Heritage Site), renowned for its remarkably preserved 8th-century frescoes, followed by Qasr Kharana, an impressive early Islamic structure blending multiple architectural influences. Continue to Qasr Al-Azraq, built of black basalt and famously used by T.E. Lawrence as his headquarters. Return to Amman for a city tour, visiting the Citadel, the Archaeological Museum, downtown souqs, and the impressive Roman Theatre. (Optional local guide available at additional cost.)
Depart Amman and travel south to Madaba, home to the famous 6th-century Mosaic Map of Palestine at St. George’s Church. Continue to Mount Nebo, where Prophet Moses is believed to have viewed the Promised Land, enjoying sweeping views over the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. Drive along the scenic King’s Highway, stopping at the Wadi Al Mujib viewpoint, before reaching Karak to visit the impressive Karak Castle, one of the largest Crusader castles in the Levant. Continue to Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan’s largest nature reserve, and enjoy views over its dramatic landscapes.
Overnight: Dana (Eco Camp) Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning in Dana, with optional short walks or traditional local activities, depending on the season. Depart for Shobak Castle, dramatically perched on a mountain ridge and dating back to the Crusader period. Continue to Little Petra, where you will explore Nabatean dwellings, rock-cut dining rooms (triclinia), and rare surviving Nabatean frescoes.
Overnight: Little Petra (Bedouin Camp) Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today is dedicated to the unforgettable Petra, the ancient Nabatean capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enter through the dramatic Siq and emerge at the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh). With an English-speaking guide, explore the Street of Facades, Roman Theatre, Colonnaded Street, and Qasr Al-Bint. After the guided tour, enjoy free time to explore further, with options to visit the Byzantine Church, the Temple of the Winged Lions, or hike to the Monastery (Ad-Deir) or the High Place of Sacrifice.
Overnight: Petra Meals: Breakfast Optional: Guided hikes such as the Back Road to the Monastery
After breakfast, transfer to Wadi Rum (approximately 1.5 hours). Meet your local Bedouin guide and enjoy traditional hospitality before embarking on a 4–5 hour 4x4 desert tour. Visit highlights including the Nabatean Temple, Lawrence Spring, sand dunes, Khazali Canyon, Little Bridge, Um Frouth Rock Bridge, Lawrence’s House, and Burdah Rock Bridge, among others. A box lunch is provided during the tour. End the day watching the sunset and enjoying dinner under the stars at a Bedouin desert camp.
Overnight: Wadi Rum Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy sunrise and breakfast in the desert before driving to Aqaba (approximately 1 hour). The rest of the day is free to relax by the Red Sea, explore the city, or enjoy optional water activities.
Overnight: Aqaba Meals: Breakfast
Travel north along the Dead Sea Highway. If available (from 1 April to 31 October, weather permitting), visit Wadi Al Mujib Reserve, the lowest nature reserve on Earth, and enjoy a scenic hike through its dramatic canyon landscape. Continue to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, and spend the afternoon relaxing at your hotel, floating in the mineral-rich waters, and using the spa and beach facilities.
Overnight: Dead Sea Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to Queen Alia International Airport (approximately 1 hour) for your onward departure.
Meals: Breakfast