Upgraded - Treasures of Jordan
Upgraded - Treasures of Jordan
Upgraded - Treasures of Jordan
9 Days Starting and ending in Amman
Visiting: Amman, Ajloun, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba, Dead Sea
Tour operator:
Tour code:
DJP
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 16
Age range:
16-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Journey through Jordan's rich history in comfort on our premium tour. Discover the rock-carved city of Petra and walk in the footsteps of the Nabateans before racing across the dunes of Wadi Rum to spend a night under the stars. Witness the ancient sites of Amman and beyond and unwind on the calm waters of the Dead Sea on this fast-paced trip through Jordan's highlights.
The Rose Red City of Petra - Spend two full days exploring the tombs and temples of this astounding wonder of the world.
Camp on the dunes of Wadi Rum - Experience Bedouin living at a premium camp on the planes of the Wadi Rum desert.
Float in the Dead Sea - Feel rejuvenated after a dip in the saline waters of the lowest point on earth.
Upgraded Range - Immerse yourself in Jordan's breathtaking highlights with our hand-picked selection of Premium hotels and desert camp
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Join Trip In Amman
Location: Amman
Accommodation Name: The House Boutique Suites
Our tour of Jordan starts in Amman, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Home to almost half of Jordan's entire population, Amman is a fascinating city of contrasts, where the ancient and the modern collide. Get lost in the bustling souks of downtown, where you'll be tempted by falafel and baklawa stalls, or visit the hillside Roman Theatre for a taster of the city's varied history.
There are no activities planned for today, so you're free to arrive in Amman at any time. A transfer from Queen Alia International Amman Airport (AMM) is included on all trips in our Upgraded range regardless of your arrival day, provided we receive your flight details no later than 10 days prior to departure. The airport is a 30-minute drive from our hotel.
Due to most flights arriving late in the evening, our Explore Leader will meet you for a welcome meeting the next morning. You'll find the meeting information on the notice board in the hotel reception. When choosing your flights, keep in mind that our tour starts right after breakfast on day two so be prepared to dive straight into the adventure.
If you'd like to add on extra days in Amman before our tour starts to explore the capital at your own pace or simply catch up on rest, contact us to book accommodation. Our boutique hotel is in the heart of Amman and it is walking distance from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Day 2: Explore Ajloun Castle And Visit To Jerash
Location: Ajloun
Accommodation Name: The House Boutique Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, we'll gather for an introductory meeting before heading out for a guided tour of the city. We'll then travel north to the green and fertile area of Ajloun. Sitting high on a hilltop, Ajloun Castle is the highlight of our morning. Originally built as a defence post from crusaders, it's now a stunning example of medieval architecture and offers fantastic views over the Jordan valley.
After enjoying a special lunch at a café owned and managed by women, we'll journey north of Amman to ancient Jerash. Inhabited for 6,500 years, the city's golden age was in Roman times when it became part of the Decapolis League - a confederation of important Middle Eastern cities.
One of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world, only 10% of the city has been uncovered since excavation began more than 100 years ago but you can still get a feel for how life in the city once was. Walk the colonnaded streets, visit the hilltop temples, explore the chariot-racing stadium, and hear your voice amplified in the ancient theatre.
Day 3: Amman City Tour In The Morning. Visit Mt Nebo And Madaba In The Afternoon
Location: Amman
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Aitch Boutique Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we'll visit the Citadel Jabal al-Qal'a, the highest point in Amman, giving us panoramic views across the sprawling capital. Our tour will include the Roman Theatre and, prayer time permitting, a panoramic tour of the Blue Mosque. Making our way downtown, we'll weave through the winding streets of the souk, soaking up the energetic ambiance and the aroma of spices and delicacies on sale. Artifacts found here indicate that the area has been a royal city for thousands of years. Whilst earthquakes and invasions have taken their toll, two pillars of the Roman Temple of Hercules still stand strong alongside sections of the 7th-century Umayyad Palace.
This afternoon, we head to Mount Nebo, referenced in the Old Testament as the place where Moses once stood to look over the Promised Land. From here, on a clear day, you can see out to the Dead Sea, Bethlehem, and Jerusalem.
Our final stop of the day will be Madaba. Aptly dubbed the 'City of Mosaics', Madaba is home to hundreds of Byzantine-era mosaics, the most famous of these is a 6th-century map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land, created with two million pieces of stone.
Day 4: Journey To The South. Visit Kerak Castle And Free Time In Petra
Location: Petra
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Petra Moon Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, we'll leave Madaba and travel to Petra for a two-night stay. Along the way, we'll visit Kerak Castle. This ancient Crusader stronghold is the most famous in a chain of fortresses built for the Holy War against Islam. We'll stop to learn about its history and explore the maze of stone-vaulted halls and passageways.
Abandoned centuries ago, Petra was the rock cut stronghold of the Nabateans. Surrounded by imposing mountains and approached through a deep, narrow cleft in the rocks, known as the Siq, it is a unique and unforgettable place and, enhanced by the play of light and shadow, an altogether overwhelming experience. On arrival, you can choose to either start exploring the archaeological site at your own pace or simply rest and enjoy the hotel's rooftop pool with a view of Petra's entrance and the tops of its canyons.
This evening, we'll enjoy a Bedouin cookery demonstration and meal at a nearby restaurant, learning how to make a traditional Makloubah (upside down) dish, with meat, rice and fried vegetables, followed by Um Ali, a creamy Arabic dessert with croissant pieces, raisins and nuts.
Day 5: Guided Tour Of Petra. Optional Petra By Night
Location: Petra
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Petra Moon Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After an early breakfast, a guided orientation tour will take us to some of the key parts of this remarkable and ancient site. As you enter the site, you're led down a kilometre-long chasm (known as the Siq) where the towering canyon walls reach up to 200 metres high. At the end of the Siq sits the beating heart of the city, the Treasury - miraculously well-preserved, the façade stands at 43-metres-high. Beyond the Treasury, the ancient city becomes a sprawl of tombs and temples waiting to be explored. We'll take in the Colonnaded Street, the Royal Tombs and marvel at the amazing theatre, with its 8,000 seats carved from the solid rock.
The afternoon is free for you to uncover more of Petra. Climb the steep path to the High Place of Sacrifice for a panorama over Wadi Araba and the Negev Desert or trek up to the Monastery - Petra's largest monument.
In the evening, there's the option to witness Petra by night. Follow the candlelit Siq trail and watch how the light plays against the high canyon rocks, blanketed by stars, before coming upon the Treasury, lit up by night. Settle into the sands in front of the ancient temple and listen to a welcome speech from the Bedouin community that still calls the city home.
Day 6: Journey To Wadi Rum To Camp In The Desert
Location: Wadi Rum
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Galaxies and Planets Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, early risers can choose to explore more of Petra for a few hours before we leave the Rose Red City behind. Today we'll embrace the nomadic lifestyle of the Bedouin and head into the dunes of Wadi Rum. We'll have the option of an exhilarating drive along the sands in 4WD vehicles, leading us through untouched parts of Wadi Rum.
Described by T.E. Lawrence as 'vast, echoing and God-like…', Wadi Rum occupies 74,000 acres with its monolithic outcrops of granite rock and sandstone rising out of the blankets of sand. The Bedouins learned to live within this hostile environment 3000 years ago, adapting to the elements to perfect their nomadic way of life.
We'll embark on exhilarating 4WD adventure to explore the hidden beauties of Wadi Rum. We'll have tea made in the traditional way on a fire and after watching the sun go down, setting the dunes aglow with fiery red and orange light, we'll head back to camp to experience Bedouin hospitality. We'll be served a traditional Zarb, a BBQ of chicken or goat meat (vegetarian options will be available) cooked under the desert sand and served alongside a selection of mezze.
Our spacious camp features private, ensuite tents - each one is fully furnished with beds and bedding and is set up with solar-powered electricity. There's also a central fire pit shared by all visitors that's perfect to gather around for a spot of stargazing.
Day 7: Free Day By The Red Sea In Aqaba
Location: Aqaba
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Double Tree by Hilton Aqaba
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a full-on few days exploring the highlights of Jordan, we'll head to Aqaba for downtime by the Red Sea. A resort town, Aqaba is where local Jordanians come to holiday, lounge on the beach, and have a go at water sports. The port city is famous for its preserved coral reefs and sea life and this afternoon there'll be the option to get out on the water for a snorkelling trip or to unwind at the private Berenice Beach Club.
If you don't have your sea legs, you can cool off in the hotel's rooftop pool or wander the vibrant souks. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to get a flavour for local life, too.
Day 8: Leave The Red Sea Behind And Float In The Dead Sea
Location: Dead Sea
Accommodation Name: The House Boutique Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, we'll depart Aqaba and head north along the King's Highway.
Our next stop is the Dead Sea. This unique body of water is the lowest point on the earth's surface. With a salt content of 33%, it's almost impossible to sink and we'll take a dip to experience the mysterious floating sensation. While we're there, you can indulge in the water's rejuvenating mud, famous for its healing properties, too.
After visiting the panoramic complex to take in the views, we'll continue back to Amman.
Day 9: Trip Ends In Amman
Location: Amman
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our tour of Jordan ends at our hotel in Amman.
There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. A transfer from Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) is included on all trips in our Upgraded range regardless of your departure day, provided we receive your flight details no later than 10 days prior to your tour departing.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various boutique hotels and camps throughout the tour, including The House Boutique Suites, Aitch Boutique Hotel, Petra Moon Hotel, Galaxies and Planets Camp, and Double Tree by Hilton Aqaba.
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Airport Transfer
A transfer from Queen Alia International Amman Airport (AMM) is included on all trips in our Upgraded range regardless of your arrival day, provided we receive your flight details no later than 10 days prior to departure.
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Meals
The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours are included for various locations such as Ajloun Castle, Jerash, Amman, Petra, and Wadi Rum.
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Special Activities
Special activities such as a Bedouin cookery demonstration, a traditional Zarb meal, and a 4WD adventure in Wadi Rum are included.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as exploring Petra by night and snorkeling trips in Aqaba are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.
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International Flights
International flights to and from Jordan are not included.
Meals
Breakfasts: 8
Lunches: 1
Dinners: 3
Mode of Transport
A transfer from Queen Alia International Amman Airport (AMM) is included on all trips in our Upgraded range regardless of your arrival day, provided we receive your flight details no later than 10 days prior to departure.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at various boutique hotels and camps throughout the tour, including The House Boutique Suites, Aitch Boutique Hotel, Petra Moon Hotel, Galaxies and Planets Camp, and Double Tree by Hilton Aqaba.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour?
Yes, a transfer from Queen Alia International Amman Airport (AMM) is included on all trips in our Upgraded range regardless of your arrival day, provided we receive your flight details no later than 10 days prior to departure.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners.
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Are guided tours included in the itinerary?
Yes, guided tours are included for various locations such as Ajloun Castle, Jerash, Amman, Petra, and Wadi Rum.
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What special activities are included in the tour?
Special activities such as a Bedouin cookery demonstration, a traditional Zarb meal, and a 4WD adventure in Wadi Rum are included.
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What optional activities are available during the tour?
Optional activities such as exploring Petra by night and snorkeling trips in Aqaba are not included but are available.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.
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Are international flights included in the tour package?
No, international flights to and from Jordan are not included.
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What can I expect on the first day of the tour?
On the first day, you will arrive in Amman, where you can explore the city at your own pace. There are no planned activities, and a transfer from Queen Alia International Amman Airport (AMM) is included. The tour officially starts the next morning with a welcome meeting.
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What will we do in Petra?
In Petra, you will have a guided orientation tour that includes the Siq, the Treasury, the Colonnaded Street, the Royal Tombs, and the ancient theatre. You will also have free time to explore more of Petra on your own, with options to climb to the High Place of Sacrifice or trek up to the Monastery.
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What is the experience like in Wadi Rum?
In Wadi Rum, you will experience Bedouin living at a premium camp. Activities include a 4WD adventure to explore the hidden beauties of Wadi Rum, traditional tea, and a Bedouin Zarb meal cooked under the desert sand. The camp features private, ensuite tents with solar-powered electricity and a central fire pit for stargazing.
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What can I do during the free day in Aqaba?
During the free day in Aqaba, you can relax by the Red Sea, go snorkeling, unwind at the private Berenice Beach Club, cool off in the hotel’s rooftop pool, or explore the vibrant souks and local restaurants.
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What is special about the visit to the Dead Sea?
At the Dead Sea, you will experience floating in the unique body of water with a salt content of 33%, making it almost impossible to sink. You can also indulge in the water’s rejuvenating mud, famous for its healing properties.
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I'm going on a walking/cycling trip-do I need to train?
It will depend on the grade and how fit you already are. Check the trip page for details of the walking or cycling grade and how far you’ll be walking/cycling each day. For moderate or challenging trips in particular we’d recommend doing some walks or cycles before you leave to build up your fitness and prepare you for the distances being covered.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have a wide range of ages nationalities on our small group trips and they come from all walks of life.
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Should I get travel insurance?
Yes–it is a condition of booking that you are fully insured when travelling with us
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How long has the tour company been trading?
At Explore, we're the experts in adventure travel. Our small group adventure holidays have been running since 1981. Today, Explore is one of the most trusted travel companies in the UK with over 500 trips to more than 120 countries.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, but there are no concessions for doing so, and we must have a record in your booking advising as such before the trip departs.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Being a responsible company is a large statement, something that has to be entwined within the very fibre of a company. Discover the charities and partnerships we support as part of this at https://www.explore.co.uk/about/sustainability/charities-and-partners
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
We want to be as clear as and as honest as possible about what happens if you decide to that you no longer wish to travel on your trip. Our booking conditions have details of the costs you’ll incur when you cancel-these charges depend on how long it is before your planned departure.
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What is the accommodation like?
We choose comfortable accommodation in the best locations possible. We opt for small, local and family-run accommodation where we can, as opposed to large chain hotels. We typically use hotels that are the equivalent of European 3-star, and you’ll usually have an en suite room. Occasionally, where we want to get off the beaten trail we may stay in more basic accommodation.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Sustainability is embedded within the fibre of Explore, it emanates from the inside out. But as we enter a new decade it is clearer than ever that our world needs help, and Explore has created a sustainability strategy based on the 2015 UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Our flexible booking and safety policies mean you're protected before and during your travels with us. Receive a full refund if your trip is cancelled, transfer your trip free of charge up to 10 days before departure minus any irrocoverable costs.
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Do I need to be very fit to book with you?
All our trips require some level of active participation. This could be on a cultural trip, trek, safari, expedition or voyage. It is in the interests of all members of the group that everyone should be capable of fully participating in the activities of their chosen trip.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Final documents will include a comprehensive trip itinerary, climate and country information, budgeting and packing advice visa and passport information and details on optional activities available.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes on most of our trips. Most trips are based on customers sharing twin-bedded rooms. If you book a group trip as an individual, you will share a room with someone of the same sex. However, on many trips we offer the opportunity to pay a supplement to pre-book a single room, known as our single room option. On some trips a single room will be provided every night, on others it will be provided o
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Do we have to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel
It’s now a condition of booking a trip with us that customers should have one of the following before they travel - — Be vaccinated against COVID, having received the full recommended course, and allowing enough time for immunity to take effect. Full vaccination includes any booster required to keep the vaccine valid. — Have taken a negative test (rapid antigen or PCR) within 72hrs of departure.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Explore will only offer hotels that have specific COVID-19 protocols in place and comply with local government guidelines. We will ensure these measures include; enhanced room cleaning, ventilation, social distancing, regular cleaning and disinfection of high frequency touch points in public areas, food safety, staff re-training and minimising contact within the properties.
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Free Date Changes
Explore! allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 70 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Explore! requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of explore! charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 13 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.