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Explore Jordan's stunning archaeological highlights and crusader castles
We start at our hotel in Amman on day 1 of the itinerary. Those on the group flights from London will arrive in the evening. Land only clients need to provide their flight details if they would like to receive a FREE arrival transfer. Your leader will leave instructions for you at the hotel. Arena Space (4-start) or similar
After breakfast we depart for a visit to Iraq El Amir. Set in the desert to the east of Amman is the much-famed Desert Loop, consisting of numerous palaces and minor forts dating back to the Omayyad period 661 AD to 750 AD. Our first stop is Qasr al- Hallabat. Originally Roman, this castle was rebuilt during the Umayyad period when it was elaborately decorated in mosaics, carved stucco and fresco paintings, thus transforming the castle into a palatial residence. There are about 150 inscriptions within the castle, mostly in Greek. The vast majority of these inscribed stones, which were reused as building material, belong to an edict issued by the Byzantine Emperor Anastasius (491-518 AD). A few kilometres away is the Hammam as-Sarakh, a bathhouse and hunting lodge. The buildings have been almost completely restored, and here we can see the channels that were used for hot water and steam. One hundred kms east of Amman, the oasis town of Azraq has a large castle built from black basalt, which was Lawrence of Arabia's headquarters during the Arab Revolt. Heading back towards Amman, the Qasr El Kharraneh and Qusayr 'Amra are the best preserved of the desert castles, Qusair Amra is noted for its extensive fresco paintings which cover virtually all the interior walls. The paintings include themes such as hunting, dancing, musicians, bathing scenes, cupids, and personifications of history, philosophy and poetry. We drive back to the hotel in Amman.Arena Space (4-star) or similar
Today we begin early as we have a long day heading north. We visit Irbid, which hosts an interesting museum. The most remarkable artefacts are the Ain Ghazal statues dated to the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period; between 7500-5500 BC. In addition the museum contains a number of artefacts from the later periods. Umm Qais, in the north of the country has fantastic views of The Sea of Galilee and was once a centre of culture and arts. As one of the cities of the Decapolis, it was a centre for arts and culture and with its amazing setting it is an enchanting place. Later we proceed to Pella, once an important city in Roman times; most of the remains actually date back to the Byzantine period. Overnight in Jerash. Olive Branch or similar
After breakfast we visit the ancient 'Gerasa'. In Roman times this was one of the ten wealthy, self-governing cities of the Decapolis, and was famous throughout the Roman empire for the luxury of its lifestyle. Buried for centuries under blown sand, Jerash is the only city of the Decapolis to have survived to any extent, with an outstanding forum, colonnaded main streets with the drains still intact, two theatres and a most impressive temple of Zeus. Our journey continues on to the only Arabic castle in Jordan, Ajloun. It is perched on a hilltop and has fantastic views of the surrounding countryside. Originally constructed in 1184 AD, it was destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries following numerous wars and earthquakes. Drive for overnight stay at the Dead Sea.Holiday Inn Dead Sea (5-star) or similar
We start the day by visiting Bethany beyond the Jordan, the site where Jesus Christ was baptised by John the Baptist marking the beginning of the new era of Christianity. We then head to Madaba, 'The City of Mosaics '. Best known for its spectacular Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, it is home to the famous 6th century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land. We see this historical map in the small Church of St George. Made up of small pieces of coloured stone, the map depicts hills and valleys, villages and towns as far as the Nile Delta during the 6th century. From here we head to the biblical Mount Nebo where Moses was shown The Promised Land before his death. There is a purpose built church which houses some wonderfully preserved mosaics. After a good look round we head south back to the Dead Sea in time for a 'float' in the thick saline waters.Holiday Inn Dead Sea (5-star) or similar
Leaving the Dead Sea behind us we drive through the deep gorge of Wadi al Mujib. This massive canyon is impressive and is now a huge nature reserve, covering 212sq km. We arrive at Al Karak and Al Shawbak, two castles that played an important role in the Crusades. Built in mediaeval times Al Karak is the larger of the two castles, its well-preserved fortifications towering over the town offer incredible views. Al Shawbak, though not as well preserved is equally as notable. Late afternoon we drive on to Petra. Overnight Petra.Amra Palace (3-star) or similar
Two days to explore Petra, the so called rose-red city, 'half as old as time'. Petra was hidden for centuries until the Swiss explorer Burckhardt made his great discovery in 1812. It was founded by the Nabateans, an Arab tribe that arrived here in the 6th century BC. Building at Petra began in the third century BC and continued through the Roman period, financed by taxes levied on the desert caravans. Two features of Petra are unique: firstly, it is a city made defensible by being built down a series of chasms, rather than on a hilltop. Secondly, it is built directly into the rock - beautiful red and yellow sandstone carved into the most impressive facades which glow in the brilliant sunlight. To enter Petra we must begin by walking down a narrow chasm, known as the Siq, surrounded by high cliffs on either side. Unveiled at the end of the Siq is El Khazneh, the Treasury. This is just the first breathtaking sight of a remarkable day. Continuing to the centre of the city, we pass the houses and tombs of the rich citizens and the remarkable scale of the site begins to unveil itself. A optional walk can then be done up 750 steps to El Deir, the monastery, with its superb facade topped by a huge urn. On the second day your guide will take you into the site for either a hike up to the High Place of sacrifice or for free time to explore the city further. Only a few people attempt to visit the High Place as it can be quite arduous and is not recommended for those who are unsure of their fitness or are uncomfortable with heights. However, those who do make it to the top are rewarded with wonderful views over parts of the site visited on the previous day.Amra Palace (3-star) or similar
This morning we visit Little Petra before joining the modern Desert Highway to make our way south to Wadi Rum. The purpose of Little Petra is not clear however archaeologists believe it was probably a suburb of Petra where visiting traders on the silk route may have stayed. Today we enter the natural world heritage site of Wadi Rum where dramatic sandstone mountains rise from the sandy desert floor is where Lawrence of Arabia and Prince Faisal assembled the Arab tribes for the attack on Aqaba in the First World War and also where sections of the 1962 epic film were shot.After checking into our private Exodus camp our Bedouin hosts take us for around a 2-hour 4x4 jeep trip to explore some of the highlights of the protected area. We go to the main popular sights, have time to sample bedouin tea and then watch the sunset from the vantage point of a rock formation. From here we return to our camp where we enjoy Bedouin hospitality with a traditional dinner called Zarb which is cooked underground. After dinner we learn about Bedouin culture and music through interacting with the family who run the camp. Exodus Private Camp (Permanent Bedouin Camp)
We wake amidst the dramatic desert scenery and then make our way on to Aqaba, Jordan's port and holiday resort, famous for beautiful coral reefs. There is time to relax on a local beach with transport and entrance included. You can add to the experience with optional snorkelling and lunch packages which your leader will explain. Please note there is a cost for these extras. There are several good restaurants in Aqaba for our evening meal together.La Costa Hotel (4-star) or similar
After breakfast, drive from Aqaba to Amman to explore the ancient city. Amman has served as the modern and ancient capital of Jordan. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a 1994 excavation uncovering homes and towers believed to have been built during the Stone Age, circa 7000 BC. The earliest written records refer to the city as Rabbath Ammon, the capital of the Ammonites in the 12th century BC. Later the city was named Philadelphia under the reign of Ptolemy Philadelphus 283-246BC. As one of the cities of the Decapolis under King Herod in 30BC major building works were conducted. The 6000 seated Roman Theatre on the citadel is testimony of Roman architecture, although extensively restored it remains a classic example. Also on Citadel Hill, just northwest of the Temple of Hercules, is the Jordan Archaeological Museum. This small museum houses an excellent collection of antiquities ranging from prehistoric times to the 15th century. From here we head to the Roman Theatre in the old town. This evening your leader will arrange a group dinner for those who would like to join. Arena Space (4-star)or similar
6 nights 4 - 5 star, 3 nights comfortable & 1 night basic hotel,1night
private desert campTravel by air-conditioned minibus and 4WD in Wadi RumGroup
normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Min age 16 yrs
All breakfasts and 3 evening meals are included on this trip.When not half
board we usually eat in local restaurants and the leader arranges bookings
for those in the group who would like to join. We suggest you budget around
15- 20 JOD pp ( GBP £16-21, USD $21-28, CAN $27-36, AUD$30-40 at time of
writing) for non-included meals. If you are vegetarian, please note that
main meals are limited in choice; however, mezze is almost always available
in restaurants and is a good, filling vegetarian choice. There is a good
choice of seafood available when at the Red Sea. At the camp in Wadi Rum we
enjoy a traditional dinner called Zarb which is cooked underground. This
consists of rice with a selection including chicken, lamb and vegetables.
Vegetables are cooked separately to the meat.
6 nights 4 - 5 star, 3 nights comfortable & 1 night basic hotel,1night
private desert campTravel by air-conditioned minibus and 4WD in Wadi RumGroup
normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Min age 16 yrs
Although this is a cultural trip, some days (such as those in Petra) can be
long and tiring. To do the optional 850 steps up to the monastery or the
climb up to the High Place of Sacrifice you should have a reasonable level of
fitness. Your leader will be able to provide you with further advice about
these hikes. It is not advisable to do the High Place of Sacrifice if you
suffer from vertigo as there are some very steep narrow steps and cliffs.
The leader always accompanies any one doing this option. Whilst camping in
Wadi Rum please be aware that although the campsite does have plumbed toilets
and showers it is basic and hot water may be limited. Our private Exodus camp
is however often mentioned as a highlight of the trip for many of our
guests. In very rare instances we may need to amend the order of the
itinerary but we will ensure that all the elements of the itinerary are still
included and site visits are of the same duration.Please note Ramadan runs
from 2 April to 1 May 2022. Ramadan is a special time to visit Jordan as it
is one of the most important times on the Muslim calendar. Each evening the
streets empty while people return home to break the fast and then there is an
air of festivity every evening. Our leaders and drivers choose to work at
this time so we continue to run trips however please be aware their energy
levels may be slightly lower. Tourist sites are still open although
closing times may be earlier than usual. Your leader will know how the
timings for each day need to be adapted in order to still experience all the
inclusions on this trip. Restaurants may close during the day and this is
also accounted for in planning meal arrangements for your group. Shops are
usually open though their hours may vary and they will definitely be closed
during the breaking of the fast. To fully enjoy your holiday experience at
this unique time of year we suggest patience and flexibility. (In fact
these are useful at any time of year on any overseas holiday.)
Hotels & CampWe spend 3 nights in a 4-star hotel in Amman, 1 night in a basic hotel in
Jerash, 2 nights in a 5-star hotel at the Dead sea, 3 nights in a comfortable
hotel in Petra and 1 night in a 4-star hotel in Aqaba. Throughout the tour
the hotels have en suite facilities and air conditioning. The hotel in
Jerash does not have air conditioning. Even though this is a basic hotel it
is set on a hillside with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It
is wonderful to watch the sunset from the pool terrace. Some hotels have
more facilities than others however it is always good to keep in mind that
the star rating in Jordan is quite different to what you may expect at home.
Sometimes we use less centrally located hotels in the interests of comfort.
Accommodation in Petra is limited and demands on the infrastructure are high;
this creates occasional problems with hot water and general plumbing for all
hotels. In general, the hotels in Petra are of an older style and much more
basic in comparison with the rest of Jordan. One night is also spent in our
Exodus Private camp in Wadi Rum staying in traditional style tents equipped
with basic beds, sheets and blankets. There are plumbed toilets and basins,
and simple shower facilities with (limited) hot water.Single supplements are
available for this trip however cannot be guaranteed at Wadi Rum. Please
enquire at the time of booking for details and up-to-date prices.
All breakfasts and 3 evening meals are included on this trip.When not half
board we usually eat in local restaurants and the leader arranges bookings
for those in the group who would like to join. We suggest you budget around
15- 20 JOD pp ( GBP £16-21, USD $21-28, CAN $27-36, AUD$30-40 at time of
writing) for non-included meals. If you are vegetarian, please note that
main meals are limited in choice; however, mezze is almost always available
in restaurants and is a good, filling vegetarian choice. There is a good
choice of seafood available when at the Red Sea. At the camp in Wadi Rum we
enjoy a traditional dinner called Zarb which is cooked underground. This
consists of rice with a selection including chicken, lamb and vegetables.
Vegetables are cooked separately to the meat.
For most of this trip we use one air-conditioned bus with local drivers. To
reach the Wadi Rum camp and to explore the desert of Wadi Rum, we use basic
4-wheel-drive vehicles that are owned by the Bedouin family that host us. The
vehicles are appropriate for local desert travel but may fall below the
normal vehicle safety standards usually expected on our trips. As there are
no other vehicles available, and as we are not travelling by road we feel
that they are an adequate means of transport.
Travelling flight inclusive from London: 12 daysThe group flight from London
is a daytime flight departing on Day 1 of the itinerary.Flights from
LondonWe normally use the scheduled services of Royal Jordanian Airlines
(depending on availability). As flight timings and schedules change
regularly we recommend you call one of our specialist sales staff or your
agent to confirm up‐to‐date timings. Please note timings may change at a
later date and cannot be confirmed until approximately two weeks before
departure.Those on the group flight will be met before immigration by
an Airport Co‐ordinator who will collect your passport to get it stamped
with the group visa. Please be aware in high season this process may be
subject to delays. The Airport Co‐ordinator will be holding an Exodus
sign, please make yourself known to him.You will then be directed to the
baggage collection point and then to the arrivals hall where either our
Airport Rep or your group leader will meet you. It is at this point that the
Airport Coordinator will return the passports.Travelling land only: 12 days
starting and ending in AmmanYour trip normally starts at our accommodation in
Amman in the evening of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach
the start point are provided in the Final Joining Instructions ‐
sent approximately two weeks before departure.
Free TransfersExodus offers FREE transfers on all flights for both Land Only
and Flight Inclusive clients. To receive this free transfer Land Only clients
must arrive on the trip start date or have booked pre-tour accommodation at
the start hotel. Exodus must receive full flight details in advance. Unless
specified otherwise, the transfer will be to the Exodus start (or pre-tour)
hotel; transfers to other hotels in the same city may attract an extra
charge. Transfers may be shared with other Exodus customers on the same
flight, or on a flight with similar arrival times. Detailed instructions
including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final
Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before
departure or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel
agent.
Spring and autumn are very popular in Jordan as it is cooler, around 24ºC in
the day and down to 8ºC at night. Rain is more likely, however, protracted
bad weather is unlikely. It is hot and dry, but not unpleasant, throughout
Jordan in the summer. Daytime maximum temperatures are around 32ºC in Amman.
Jerash temperatures are the same.Wadi Rum on average in summer is around
30ºC though it can get as high as 40ºC. At night it is usually around 10ºC
cooler. In winter it is much cooler and can get as low as 10ºC during the
day. In the evening it is around OºC . There are occasions when there is
rain or even snow in the desert. If weather conditions require it we may need
to modify the itinerary or the camp location for your comfort and safety.
Aqaba is very hot when the air is still, but there is usually a breeze. Rain
is unusual but possible. The Dead Sea air temperatures vary from around
14ºC in winter up to high 30s in summer months. The water temperature
however doesn’t drop below 20ºC.As with many countries in the world
seasons can go on longer than usual so it is advisable to always check the
weather of the country you are travelling to a week or two before your trip
so you can pack appropriately.
Day sack Lightweight walking boots/shoes for Petra Sports bottle with wide
top (not plastic) for water refills from large containers Sunhat Sun
creamSwimwear for the Red and Dead SeaInsect repellent for the night at the
desert campTorch for desert camp Appropriate footwear for the Dead Sea as
parts are rocky underfoot You will encounter a range of temperatures on
these trips; in spring and autumn the days are generally quite hot (very hot
in July and August), the nights are cool in the desert. Light cotton clothing
is suitable for daytime use, but you may need a sweater, and for departures
from the end of September onwards you should also bring a warm jacket.Please
note that Jordan is a Muslim country and so modest dress is required on this
trip when visiting holy sites, and rural areas (i.e. legs, shoulders and
upper arms to be covered). In the larger cities and more popular destinations
this is not necessary.At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold
baggage on the recommended international carrier for this trip is 20kg. We
recommend packing only one piece of checked baggage.As advice about luggage
allowances for both hand and hold luggage is subject to change, we suggest
you check the airline's website for the latest information prior to your
departure.
Travel towel for one night at desert campSleeping bag/liner for extra comfort
for the night spent in the desert (please note that the basic bedding is
already provided including sheets and blankets).
There are various excursions possible on this trip - the leader will provide
more details on arrival. Please note that all prices are subject to
change.Petra by night: follow the trail from the Siq to the Treasury in
candlelight where you will be offered tea and traditional music by the local
Bedouins 17 JOD pp. (Please note this is not possible every evening and it
can get crowded. This is low-key entertainment so it is best to go without
expectations.)Turkish bath: 22 JOD pp.Camel rides in Wadi Rum: camel rides
provided by the local Bedouins may be possible in Wadi Rum. Around 1 hour &
20 mins. 20 JOD pp
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Exodus. Tipping
is at your discretion for both the leader and the local staff. However,
tipping in Jordan is part of the culture that has developed with tourism due
to the low income of most people.During the week if you wish to tip hotel
staff, other local staff, and the driver, we have found it useful for the
group to have a kitty for tipping. Your leader will be able to advise you on
the amount, but as a guide expect it to be 11-14JD (GBP11-15, USD15-20,
CAD19-25, AUD21-28 at time of publication) per person for the week. This
kitty can be placed in the hands of one of the group members to look after
and the leader will advise where it is appropriate to tip. If preferred
however the leader can manage this for the group. The kitty is there to
ease confusion and embarrassment by not knowing how much or how little to
tip. If you do not wish to join in on the group kitty, please do not feel
pressured. Many clients also wish to tip their Tour Leader and as a guide we
suggest around 25-28JD (GBP26-30, USD35-40, CAD44-51, AUD50-57 at time of
publication) per person for the trip. Most groups prefer to present the
money to the leader at the end of the week in an envelope. This is completely
at your own discretion and to be used as a guideline only.
Travel insuranceSingle accommodation (available on request)Visas or
vaccinations
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.
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