Explore the archaeological treasures of the Fertile Crescent by foot and camelback!

The land of Jordan has been home to ancient settlements since the dawn of civilization. One illustrious culture after another has left their legacy, most notably the mysterious “Lost City” of Petra, carved by the Nabataeans out of sheer cliffs in the 6th century B.C. On this unique adventure, you’ll experience the magic of Petra, but you’ll also see aspects of Jordan many travelers miss. You’ll hike through the strikingly diverse Dana Nature Reserve, and stay at the unique and intimate Feynan Ecolodge, a true find! You’ll explore spectacular, wind-carved Wadi Rum by foot and camelback, and sleep Bedouin-style in mobile tents. You’ll tour the mosques, museums, and souks of Amman, and visit the Roman ruins of Jerash, the largest outside of Italy. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the local knowledge and expertise of our guides, the very best in Jordan. All this adventure is balanced with luxury, from spa treatments at the Dead Sea—1,300 feet below sea level!—to gourmet Arabic cooking lessons. So come discover the history, hospitality, and scenery of Jordan, as only MTS can deliver it.

Activities

Cultural and archaeological touring, 1 day moderate hiking, 1-day camel riding (option to walk)

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover the ancient rose-red fortress of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Learn about Jordan’s rich history on a walking tour of the mosques, souks, and ruins of Amman, accompanied by the best guides in the country
• Visit the Roman ruins of Jerash—the largest outside of Italy, dating to 3,000 B.C.
• Go deep into the Jordanian countryside with a visit to the hillside town of Dana, a hike through remote Dana Nature Reserve, and a stay at the unique and intimate Feynan Ecolodge
• Explore the wind-carved deserts and canyons of Wadi Rum by foot and camelback, followed by overnight stays in our private, mobile Bedouin camps
• Experience the healing powers of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on the earth!

Duration: 11 days Start Location: Amman End Location: Amman

BRIEF Itinerary

• Day 1 : Arrival in Amman

  Arrival in Amman, Jordan.

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  Day 2 : Amman

  Morning city walking tour of Amman, including the Citadel, Roman Theater, and several museums. Afternoon exploring the Greco-Roman city of Jerash.

• Day 3 : Dana Nature Reserve

  Tour of Mt. Nebo (said to be Moses' burial place) and walking tour of Madaba's Byzantine-era mosaics.

• Day 4 : Dana Nature Reserve

  Full day of hiking through Dana Nature Reserve, enjoying the spectacular scenery and privacy (no other tourists!). Dinner and overnight at Jordan's first "green" lodge, using only solar power and candles for lighting and serving locally grown produce.

• Day 5 : Petra

  Drive the King's Highway to Petra.

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  Day 6 : Petra

  A full day of exploring the ancient, rock-hewn city of Petra, undoubtably Jordan's most valuable treasure. Petra, or "rock" in Greek, was once a thriving city of 20,000 inhabitants.

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  Day 7 : Wadi Rum

  Rugged driving and hiking into the vast desert of Wadi Rum, a land of contrast—from red rolling dunes to massive sandstone mountains. We'll spend the night under the stars in our own private Bedouin camp.

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  Day 8 : Wadi Rum

  Continue to explore Wadi Rum by camel.

• Day 9 : Dead Sea

  Travel overland to the Dead Sea and visit the site of Jesus' baptism.

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  Day 10 : Dead Sea

  A day to relax and enjoy the Dead Sea—the lowest point on earth! Opt for spa treatments, or spend the day relaxing on your own.

• Day 11 : Departure

  Transfer to Amman for departure, or join our Nile Cruise extension in Egypt!

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  Intercontinental Hotel

  Amman, Jordan

  This hotel is located in the heart of the diplomatic area of Amman, within walking distance of the old city centre and a short taxi ride from popular sites such as the Citadel. The 440 newly-renovated rooms and suites are equipped with an array of modern amenities and the latest technology. Queen Alia International Airport is a 30-minute drive away.

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

photo credits: ©MTS Photo File