Jordan Private Journey

Fabled Petra, long-lost city of the Nabateans, Jerash, a fabulously preserved Roman city, the great Crusader castle at Kerak—the ancient legacy of Jordan is rivaled only by the stunning beauty of the landscape, exemplified by the stunning desert canyon of Wadi Rum. On this Private Journey, take in the extraordinary wonder of the “rose-red” city of Petra, a desert fortress carved out of craggy rocks in a remote canyon in the 3rd century BC, forgotten by the outside world for 1,000 years, then rediscovered in 1812 by a Swiss explorer. In addition to Petra, Jerash, and Kerak, your journey also includes an overnight at a tented camp in Wadi Rum, haunt of T. E. Lawrence. Throughout the trip, enjoy the leadership of a private English-speaking guide, wonderful accommodations, air-conditioned vehicles, and lots of wonderful interactions with the Jordanians, among the most hospitable people in the world.

Itinerary at a Glance

For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary

Days 1-2
Jerash’s Roman Ruins

Explore Amman on a city tour including the Citadel, Byzantine Church, Umayyad Palace, and the Archaeological Museum, then head to the fabulously preserved Roman ruins at Jerash, an archaeological masterpiece framed by the hills of Gilead. Jerash’s monuments include a triumphal arch, stadium, huge fountain, temples, and colonnaded streets.

Days 3-4
Petra, Lost City of Stone

En route to Petra, visit Madaba, whose St. George’s Church houses a world-famous mosaic floor, and Mount Nebo, the site where Moses viewed the Holy Land, then continue to Petra, “a rose-red city half as old as time.” This remote city is one of the great treasures of the ancient world (and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World!). Its dazzling desert setting is unmatched and its elaborately carved temples, hewn into the red and golden sandstone cliffs by the mysterious Nabatean people 2,000 years ago, are simply spellbinding. Rediscovered early in the 19th century, this World Heritage Site is a spectacular tour de force of architecture. Walk through the narrow defile called the Siq and set your eyes on the breathtaking Al Khazneh (Treasury), which was featured in the film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Day 5
Wadi Rum

The landscape of Wadi Rum, with its immensity, ever-changing palette of colors, and awe-inspiring rock spires, creates an other-worldly atmosphere. Enjoy an optional ride by camel (or on foot) to T. E. Lawrence’s spring and explore by 4WD to savor the majesty of the desert. Overnight at Milky Way Camp,  a simple desert getaway in a superb wilderness setting.

Day 6
Wadi Rum / Aqaba

After a short walk this morning to a small natural arch with inscriptions dating from the time of the Nabateans, the builders of Petra 2,000 years ago, transfer to your hotel in Aqaba, with the afternoon at leisure. Overnight at the stylish Movenpick Tala Bay Resort, set on the shores of the Red Sea.

Day 7
Aqaba / Depart

After breakfast at hotel, transfer to airport for departure on homeward-bound flights via Amman.

For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 2, Easy to Moderate. 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