Essential Jordan

Essential Jordan

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6 Days From

$2703

Essential Jordan

6 Days Starting and ending in Amman, Jordan

Visiting: Amman, Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum

Tour operator:

Crooked Compass

Tour code:

17418

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

Activities:

4WD, Walking

From: $2703

NB: Prices correct on 23-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview


  • Discover Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities

  • Float in the Dead Sea

  • Unveil Amman's rich heritage and culture

  • Stay in Jordan’s largest nature reserve, Dana Biosphere

  • Admire the beauty of Petra, Jordan's legendary "Rose City"

  • Explore Wadi Rum with a thrilling 4x4 Jeep adventure

  • Experience a magical night under the desert sky embracing Bedouin traditions


Embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes and rich heritage of Jordan, where ancient wonders and hidden gems await at every turn.

Our immersive tour takes you beyond the well-trodden path to explore not only the iconic sites such as Petra, where ancient civilisations carved their legacies into the rose-red cliffs but also lesser-known regions like the enchanting Dana Biosphere Reserve, a sanctuary of biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. From floating effortlessly in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea to camping beneath the star-studded skies of Wadi Rum, where timeless desert landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see, our experiences promise to ignite your senses and awaken your spirit of adventure.

Highlights

  • Explore the ancient Roman city of Jerash, one of the best-preserved in the Middle East.

  • Float effortlessly in the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth.

  • Discover the majestic Petra, the "Rose City," with its iconic Treasury and Royal Tombs.

  • Experience a thrilling 4x4 Jeep tour in the breathtaking desert landscape of Wadi Rum.

  • Visit the impressive Kerak Castle, a Crusader fortress with a rich history.

  • Stroll through Amman's vibrant Souk and explore the historical Citadel Hill.

  • Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Dana Village and its stunning nature reserve.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 - Arrival In Amman

Location: Amman

Accommodation Name: Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Dinner

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.


 


Meals

Dinner


Accommodation

Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar


Services

Airport transfer


Travel time and distance

Queen Alla Airport to hotel: Approx. 35 km/ 34 mins drive


Day 2 - Jerash - Amman

Location: Amman

Accommodation Name: Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Jerash

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.


Amman City Tour

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


Citadel Hill and Archaeological Museum


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


Souk

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.


Jabal Amman and Jabal Weibdeh

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


Meals

Breakfast


Accommodation

Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar


Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Travel time and distance

Jerash to Amman: Approx. 50 km/1-hour drive


Day 3 - Dead Sea – Kerak Castle – Dana Village – Feynan Ecolodge

Location: Dead Sea

Accommodation Name: Feynan Ecolodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Dead Sea

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.


Kerak Castle

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.


Dana Village

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.


Feynan Ecolodge

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.


Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Accommodation

Feynan Ecolodge


Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide – please note your vehicle into Fenyan Ecolodge is a local Bedouin driver to support the local community


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


Day 4 - Petra

Location: Petra

Accommodation Name: Petra Guest House or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.


Meals

Breakfast


Accommodation

Petra Guest House or similar


Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Travel time and distance

Feynan Ecolodge to Dana: Approx. 40 km/ 1 hr drive

Dana to Petra: Approx. 95 km/ 1 hr drive


Day 5 - Petra - Wadi Rum

Location: Wadi Rum

Accommodation Name: Sun City Camp or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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.


Meals

Breakfast, Dinner


Accommodation

Sun City Camp or similar


Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Travel time and distance

Petra Guest House to Wadi Rum: Approx. 105 km/1.5-hour drive


Day 6 - Wadi Rum - Departure

Location: Wadi Rum

Meals Included: Breakfast

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).


Meals

Breakfast


Service

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


What's Included

  • Return airport transfers

  • 4 nights hotel accommodation and 1 night desert camp

  • Services of local English-speaking guides

  • Private transportation with air conditioning

  • English speaking driver

  • Entrance fees and sightseeing as per the itinerary

  • Meals as per the itinerary

  • Day pass entry to swim in the Dead Sea at Holiday Inn hotel including towel and use of shower room

  • 3hr jeep ride in Wadi Rum with Bedouin driver

What's Not Included

  • International flights

  • Visas

  • Horse ride in Petra

  • Travel and medical insurance

  • All services, meals other than those indicated above

  • Any changes to the proposed and confirmed program.

  • All items of a personal nature e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone calls, tips etc

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides private transportation with air conditioning, accompanied by an English-speaking driver. Additionally, there is a 3-hour jeep ride in Wadi Rum with a local Bedouin driver.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    The tour includes 4 nights in comfortable hotel accommodations and 1 night in a unique desert camp. You will stay at places like the Khan Khediwe Hotel, Feynan Ecolodge, and Sun City Camp or similar.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Meals are provided as per the itinerary, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner on specific days.

  • Is there a guide available during the tour?

    Yes, the services of local English-speaking guides are available throughout the tour.

  • What activities are included in the Wadi Rum visit?

    In Wadi Rum, you will embark on a thrilling 4x4 Jeep tour led by a local Bedouin driver, exploring the desert landscape, canyons, sand dunes, and rock formations.

  • Will I have the opportunity to swim in the Dead Sea?

    Yes, the tour includes a day pass entry to swim in the Dead Sea at the Holiday Inn hotel, which includes a towel and use of the shower room.

  • What historical sites will I visit in Amman?

    In Amman, you will visit historical sites such as Citadel Hill, the Archaeological Museum, and the Roman Theatre, as well as explore the vibrant Souk.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes. Focusing on providing authentic experiences where ever you are in the world, Crooked Compass has access to a vast array of accommodation styles. From boutique properties in larger cities to local guest houses and home stays within small villages. Crooked Compass ensures that local authenticity flows through your accommodation throughout your tour without compromising standard.

  • What sort of transportation is used for your tours?

    Transportation utilised on a Crooked Compass escorted small group tour is a combination of a private air conditioned vehicle and local transport where appropriate. This may include a local bus ride, use of the cities metro system, a domestic flight to another city or overnight train ride.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Crooked Compass strives to be a leader in sustainable tourism. Crooked Compass is firmly committed to the principles of ethical travel. Our comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Practices policy summarises our commitments and actions. Although the very basis of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of sustainable tourism, this policy re-iterates our commitment to: Use locally owned hotels Use locally owned ground agents Use local guides and drivers Promote community tourism projects from homestays to craft shops Support charities that work within the destinations that we travel to Carbon offset our travels

  • Who runs your tours and are they experts in their fields?

    Crooked Compass works with the worlds best operators who are specialists in their country, region and cities providing you with in depth local knowledge. We use local guides who live and breathe the areas they work in, making sure you experience their region, their way. We believe it is far better to have a local guide who knows a lot about a little than a text book trained Western tour guide who knows a little about a lot. Using local guides also ensures that money stays within local communities and supports the regions we visit.

  • What can I expect from a Crooked Compass tour that I wouldn't get from travelling with an alternative company?

    Crooked Compass provides a sensory way to understand the world – we help you live like a local, eat like a local, do what the locals do and seek the faces behind the places whilst discovering untouched lands and natural beauty. Crooked Compass tours delve deep into the heart and soul of a destination ensuring you get out of your journey all you intended and much, much more. Our intriguing itineraries have been created by travellers for travellers. Steering travellers to follow a different path, Crooked Compass’ itineraries allow you to experience the world’s most fascinating destinations in ways you never dreamed possible. It brings to life those ‘bucket list’ experiences you have yearned to do and separates the travellers from the tourists. Crooked Compass tours are culturally rich, reward travellers with unexpected encounters and uncommon rendezvous, creating truly unique, authentic travel experiences.

  • Who do your tours cater for?

    Crooked Compass escorted small group tours cater for those who are well travelled seeking the what’s next and what’s new. Our travellers are curious minded soft adventurers who want to uncover something more than the mainstream tourist trail. Crooked Compass tours draw travellers with an interest in sustainable tourism and conservation for the areas they visit. A Crooked Compass traveller is someone who is seeking something fresh and unique, who has a yearning for authenticity and discovery, with an appreciation for cultures, tradition and the natural world. We call them Cultural Purists.

  • I am concerned about my impact on travelling through untouched regions. Can I offset?

    Yes. All travellers on Crooked Compass tours have the option to offset their part of their tour’s carbon footprint by donating $4AUD (tax-deductible) at time of booking. 100% of these funds are donated to Greenfleet, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting our climate by restoring our forests. By partnering with Greenfleet, we are confident that our carbon offset program provides genuine and lasting environmental benefits. Your offset donation funds plant trees and restore permanent native forests in Australia and New Zealand. As they grow, these forests provide many community and environmental benefits by absorbing carbon emissions, protecting our unique biodiversity, restoring habitat for native wildlife, preventing soil salinity and erosion, improving water quality and much more. If you’d like to find out more and offset the rest of your carbon emissions, visit www.greenfleet.org.au

Reviews of this operator

Jeff Rehn  

A wonderful trip to Saudi Arabia organised by Crooked Compass

07-Apr-2022

A wonderful trip to Saudi Arabia organised by Crooked Compass. Considering the country is just opening up to tourism everything went very well - flights, trips, transfers, guides and accommodation - thank you CC - highly recommended

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Pauline Mavis Rusby  

We were kept safe at all times.

09-May-2022

We were kept safe at all times. When unexpected hurdles appeared they were handled without fuss. Our tour was informative, picturesque and comfortable.

Tripadvisor
Tina Watts-Seale  

Family holiday to Vietnam

01-Aug-2022

We booked a family holiday to Vietnam with Crooked Compass and it was perfect. The booking process was easy and Lisa took all of our requests on board so that the trip was exactly what we wanted. All flights, transfers, accommodations, guides and activities were fantastic, with great communication throughout the whole trip. Would highly recommend, we will be booking again soon!

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Crooked Compass requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of crooked compass charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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