2024 - Jordan Discovery Tour
8 Days Starting and ending in Amman, Jordan
Visiting: Amman, As-Salt, Petra, Wadi Rum
Tour operator:
Tour code:
JODI
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 18
Age range:
8-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the 2024 Jordan Discovery Tour, a captivating journey through the heart of Jordan's rich cultural and historical tapestry. Begin in Amman, exploring its ancient citadel and Roman amphitheatre, before venturing to the historic town of As-Salt and the sacred Baptism Site at Bethany. Discover the grandeur of Jerash's Roman ruins and the stunning mosaics of Madaba. Marvel at the panoramic views from Mt. Nebo and the formidable Kerak Castle. Experience the awe-inspiring Petra and the enchanting desert landscapes of Wadi Rum on a thrilling 4x4 jeep safari. Relax in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea and explore the Desert Castles, Aqraq Wetland Reserve, and Shaumari Wildlife Reserve. With professional guides, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable experiences, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Jordan's past and present.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Amman
Location: Amman
Accommodation: La Casa Hotel by FHM / Olive Hotel (3 star)
Accommodation Name: La Casa Hotel by FHM / Olive Hotel (3 star)
Welcome to Jordan! Upon arrival our staff will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Amman for the start of your trip. After helping you check in and pointing you to any local shops, cafes or restaurants, you're free to explore Amman independently before our sightseeing starts tomorrow.
Day 2 : As-Salt, Baptism Site At Bethany
Location: As-Salt
Accommodation: La Casa Hotel by FHM / Olive Hotel (3 star)
Accommodation Name: La Casa Hotel by FHM / Olive Hotel (3 star)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The tour begins with a visit to As-Salt, situated about 40 minutes from Amman. As-Salt, a historic hilltop town, was a crucial trading hub and former capital. Renowned for its Islamic architecture using yellow limestone, the town preserves numerous remarkable buildings and narrow streets bustling with shops. As-Salt epitomizes religious and cultural harmony between its Muslim and Christian communities. Exploring the 'Harmony Trail' unveils insights into local life and Jordanian culture. A local family hosts a delightful lunch, offering a taste of Jordan's cuisine, although larger groups might experience traditional Jordanian food at a local restaurant instead.
Post-lunch, the tour descends to the Baptism Site at Bethany, a newly excavated historical site believed to be 'Bethany-beyond-the-Jordan,' where John baptized Jesus Christ. This site holds significance with its Roman and Byzantine period churches, caves, and pools. Notably, it's been visited by Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. An electric minibus provides access to three key sites: Tell Mar Elias, the Baptism Pools, and John the Baptist's Church.
After a busy first day, we'll return to our hotel in Amman where we'll spend the night.
Day 3 : Amman, Jerash
Location: Amman
Accommodation: La Casa Hotel by FHM / Olive Hotel (3 star)
Accommodation Name: La Casa Hotel by FHM / Olive Hotel (3 star)
We start our Jordan tour today with a drive north for a visit of Jerash, one of the largest and best preserved Roman sites outside of Italy. It is a excellent example of Roman architecture including paved and colonnaded streets, hilltop temples, amphitheatres, spacious public squares and plazas, bathhouses, fountains and a city wall pierced by towers and gates.
In the afternoon was have a city tour of Amman. We'll make our way to the Citadel - the former home of the ancient Temple of Hercules, The Umayyad Palace, the Byzantine Church before we make our way to the 6000 seater Roman theatre, which was built during the Roman Period, when the city was known as Philadelphia. The ancient theatre is still in use today, playing host to numerous cultural events.
Day 4 : Madaba, Mt. Nebo, Kerak Castle
Location: Petra
Accommodation: Amra Palace Hotel / Petra Palace (3 star)
Accommodation Name: Amra Palace Hotel / Petra Palace (3 star)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We depart Amman for a scenic drive along the King's Highway to Petra, crossing deep Wadis, including the majestic Wadi al-Mujib, olive groves, and driving through remote rural villages. En-route we see the Roman mosaics at the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George in Madaba, enjoy great views of Israel from Mt. Nebo, and visit Kerak Castle, one in a chain of Crusader fortresses built across Jordan in the 12th Century.
Day 5 : Petra, Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp
Location: Petra
Accommodation: Rahayeb Desert Camp (Desert Camp)
Accommodation Name: Rahayeb Desert Camp (Desert Camp)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Explore Petra, an ancient Nabatean capital rediscovered in 1812 within the Wadi Aruba desert. Entry is through the narrow Siq, a passage amidst canyon walls. Admire rock-carved structures like the Khazneh (Treasury) during a guided tour and independent exploration. The Siq, rising 200 meters, reveals remnants of ancient water channels.
Wander past tombs, a Roman amphitheater, and ascend to the 'Monastery' for panoramic views. Expect substantial walking, minimum 3km through the Siq, 8km to the main basin, and extra kilometers for the Monastery, involving 800 steps. Horse carriages ease travel; donkeys aid the Monastery ascent. Later, enjoy Wadi Rum's desert scenery at a welcoming camp hosted by Bedouins. Relax, stargaze, and savor traditional Jordanian cuisine, capping off a day of historical immersion and natural wonder.
Day 6 : Wadi Rum Jeep Safari, Dead Sea Swim
Location: Wadi Rum
Accommodation: La Casa Hotel by FHM / Olive Hotel (3 star)
Accommodation Name: La Casa Hotel by FHM / Olive Hotel (3 star)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Commencing the day, we immerse ourselves in the captivating desert and mountain vistas of Wadi Rum. Embarking on a jeep safari, we traverse the stunning desert landscapes, encountering sheer cliffs and intriguing rock formations.
Later, bidding adieu to Wadi Rum, our journey heads northward toward the Dead Sea, a globally acclaimed wonder. Being Earth's lowest point at 400 meters below sea level, this area boasts unparalleled spiritual landscapes and natural marvels.
Nourished by various rivers, notably the River Jordan, the Dead Sea's unique land-locked nature causes water evaporation, leaving behind a concentrated blend of salts and minerals. The surrounding mountains and Jerusalem's rolling hills create an almost surreal ambiance, while historical records suggest it was once home to five Biblical cities, Sodom, Gomorrah, Adman, Zebouin and Zoar (Bela).
Our stopover includes an experience in the sea's intensely salty waters, making traditional swimming impossible. Instead, floating, whether sitting or lying, is the preferred and visually stunning method.
Day 7 : Desert Castles, Aqraq Wetland Reserve, Shaumari Wildlife Reserve
Location: Amman
Accommodation: La Casa Hotel by FHM / Olive Hotel (3 star)
Accommodation Name: La Casa Hotel by FHM / Olive Hotel (3 star)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Following breakfast, we depart Amman to explore Jordan's Desert Castles, remnants reflecting early Islamic art along Umayyad trade routes. These 'castles', more akin to forts, bathhouses, and palaces, showcase mosaics, frescoes, and carvings influenced by Persian and Graeco-Roman traditions, offering glimpses into 8th-century life.
Our itinerary includes Qasr al-Kharrana, Qal'at al-Azraq, and Qseirr Amra, followed by visits to vital nature reserves managed by the Jordanian Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN). The Aqraq Wetland Reserve, an oasis nestled in the eastern desert, hosts lush marshland and pools, a haven for migratory birds. Meanwhile, the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve, initially established for the Arabian Oryx, now shelters rare species like Ostriches, Goitered Gazelles, and Persian Onagers, alongside diverse wildlife.
An option for guided safaris into the reserve before our return to Amman might be available. For a final evening, Downtown Amman offers a taste of Jordanian cuisine, perhaps Mansaf, falafel with hummus, and the delectable dessert Knafeh, a fitting end to our Jordanian experience.
Day 8 : Amman
Location: Amman
Accommodation: ()
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your time is free today until we transfer you to Amman airport for your departure flight.
If you wish to extend the tour, we can arrange a transfer to Tel Aviv either by by flight or overland for people wanting to connect this tour with our Biblical Israel tour departure which starts on Sunday. Extensions to spend time at a resort in the Red Sea town or Aqaba are also available.
What's Included
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Professional English-speaking guide in Jordan
A professional English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour in Jordan.
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Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle
Transportation during the tour will be provided in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle.
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4 x 4 Desert Jeep Safari
Experience a 4 x 4 Desert Jeep Safari in Wadi Rum.
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All camping equipment at Wadi Rum
All necessary camping equipment will be provided during your stay at Wadi Rum.
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Tips except drivers and guides
Tips are included except for drivers and guides.
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Entrance to Dead Sea beach with towel & showers
Entrance to the Dead Sea beach is included, along with towels and showers.
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Meals
The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.
What's Not Included
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Entrance fees
Entrance fees to various sites are not included in the tour package.
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Visas, border or port taxes
Visas, border, or port taxes are not included and must be arranged separately.
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Hotel gala dinners
Hotel gala dinners, if charged by the hotels on 24 & 31 Dec, are not included.
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Tips - drivers and guides
Tips for drivers and guides are not included in the tour package.
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Suggested optional activities
Any suggested optional activities are not included in the tour package.
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Compulsory Travel Insurance
Compulsory travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
Meals
6 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 1 dinners
Mode of Transport
Travel in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle throughout the tour, with a thrilling 4x4 Desert Jeep Safari in Wadi Rum. Enjoy seamless transfers, including airport pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a comfortable journey across Jordan.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at La Casa Hotel by FHM or Olive Hotel in Amman, and Amra Palace Hotel or Petra Palace in Petra, all offering 3-star amenities. Experience the unique Rahayeb Desert Camp in Wadi Rum for an authentic desert stay.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle. Additionally, a 4x4 Desert Jeep Safari is included for exploring Wadi Rum.
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Is there a guide available during the tour?
Yes, a professional English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour in Jordan.
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What activities are included at the Dead Sea?
At the Dead Sea, you will have the opportunity to experience the unique sensation of floating in its intensely salty waters. Entrance to a Dead Sea beach with towel and showers is included.
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
Accommodation is provided in 3-star hotels such as La Casa Hotel by FHM / Olive Hotel in Amman and Amra Palace Hotel / Petra Palace in Petra. In Wadi Rum, you will stay at the Rahayeb Desert Camp.
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Are entrance fees included in the tour package?
No, entrance fees are not included in the tour package and will need to be paid separately.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.
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What is the significance of the Baptism Site at Bethany?
The Baptism Site at Bethany is believed to be 'Bethany-beyond-the-Jordan,' where John baptized Jesus Christ. It features Roman and Byzantine period churches, caves, and pools and has been visited by Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI.
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What can I expect during the visit to Petra?
In Petra, you will explore the ancient Nabatean capital, entering through the narrow Siq and admiring rock-carved structures like the Khazneh (Treasury). The tour includes a guided exploration and independent time to wander past tombs, a Roman amphitheater, and ascend to the 'Monastery' for panoramic views.
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What wildlife can be seen at the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve?
The Shaumari Wildlife Reserve is home to rare species such as Ostriches, Goitered Gazelles, and Persian Onagers, alongside a variety of other wildlife.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for our latest Covid-19 policies, however, we adhere to recommended health & safety guidelines on all our tours.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Fez Travel has been in operation since 1997.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Please contact us as soon as possible and we will be able to let you know what is possible and any associated price changes.
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Low Deposit
Fez Travel requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of fez travel charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.