Jordan Explorer Private Journey

Jordan’s sites of antiquity are straight out of an archaeologist’s wildest dream, including fabled Petra, long-lost city of the Nabateans, a stunning ruin carved from solid red sandstone in the 3rd century BC.  A World Heritage Site, Petra is spectacularly set on the edge of the Wadi Araba, with sheer sandstone hills forming a deep canyon that protects it in all directions. Our Private Journey includes many other wonders, including the great Crusader castle at Kerak, the fabulously preserved Roman city of Jerash, the mystic Dead Sea, and ethereal Wadi Rum, a desert canyon known for its immensity and ever-changing palette of colors. Along the way, enjoy private English-speaking guides, air-conditioned vehicles, and lots of wonderful interaction with the Jordanians, among the most hospitable people in the world. We offer both a First Class Option and a Deluxe Option for this journey.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-4
Roman Ruins, Crusader Castle, and the Dead Sea

Visit the striking Roman ruins at Jerash, an archaeological masterpiece framed by the hills of Gilead, and the impressive Al Rabad Castle, built in defense against the Crusaders, then journey to a luxury spa on the Dead Sea to enjoy the therapeutic secrets of its legendary waters.

Days 5-6
Petra, Lost City of Stone

En route to Petra, explore the great Crusader fortress at Kerak. This monumental building soars above its surroundings and is filled with galleries and secret passageways. Its thick defensive walls are pierced by narrow arrow slits where Crusader archers held out. Continue to Petra, “a rose-red city half as old as time” and one of the great treasures of the ancient world. Petra’s stunning desert setting is unequaled and its elaborately carved temples, hewn into the cliffs by the mysterious Nabatean people 2,000 years ago, are spell-binding.

Day 7
Wadi Rum

This was Lawrence of Arabia’s headquarters during World War I, and he named his book, The Seven Pillars of Wisdom, after Wadi Rum’s natural landmark of seven jagged rock columns. Explore the canyon by 4WD and enjoy dinner served under Bedouin tents before returning to Petra.

Days 8-11
Snorkeling in the Red Sea

In the tranquil haven of Aqaba, swim and snorkel along pristine coral reefs in the Red Sea. Return to Amman on Day 10, with an afternoon to explore its Roman theater, art galleries, and the bazaars of the Gold Market. Depart on Day 11.

For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 1, Easiest. It is an overland touring trip with day walks to explore the fascinating temples and wonderful towns of this ancient and modern civilization. It can be enjoyed by anyone in good health who has no mobility restrictions.

Explanation of Trip Levels