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The best way to get around in the desert is by camel, Jordan - Jordan Highlights, Jordan
The best way to get around in the desert is by camel, Jordan  | Stephanie Fradette
Sunset in the Wadi Rum, Jordan - Jordan Highlights, Jordan
Sunset in the Wadi Rum, Jordan  | Gordon Steer
Colonnaded street at Jerash, Jordan - Jordan Highlights, Jordan
Colonnaded street at Jerash, Jordan  | Gordon Steer
The Treasury in Petra - Jordan Highlights, Jordan
The Treasury in Petra  | Joel Young
The streets of Amman - Jordan Highlights, Jordan
The streets of Amman  | Rachel Imber
Vast expanses of Jordan's deserts - Jordan Highlights, Jordan
Vast expanses of Jordan's deserts  | Stephanie Fradette

Jordan Highlights

Jordan's must-see highlights plus camel ride to bedouin camp

Jordan
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 12 reviews

13 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: JHL
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 13 Days
Activities
  • Day Walking
  • 4WD jeep tour
Accommodation
  • 10 nights hotel
  • 1 night Bedouin camp
  • 1 night guesthouse
Meals
  • 2 Dinners
  • 12 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
2 / 10

Adventure touring

Carbon Footprint  

68kg of CO2-e PP per day

(812kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Indulge in breathtaking archaeological treasures, including the Red Rose City of Petra
  • Explore the spectacular desert landscape of Wadi Rum
  • Enjoy a camel trek in the desert and traditional Bedouin dinner
  • Visit the historic Roman ruins of Jerash
  • Relax on the Dead Sea
  • Discover Desert Castles and Muslim mosques and fortresses
  • Revel in the local hospitality whilst cooking a traditional meal

Overview

Discover all the must see places on this tantalising journey including breathtaking archaeological treasures, Roman ruins, grand mosques and the delightful Desert Castles. At Um Qais we gain a sense of what Moses saw with views of the Jordan Valley, Golan Heights and the Sea of Galilee; and enjoy cooking a traditional meal with locals. The rose-red city of Petra is revealed through a narrow gorge, where you'll be awe struck by the structures that were carved into the soaring sandstone walls by the Nabataean civilization in the third century B.C. A short walk in the Dana Nature Reserve is preceded by our foray into the Wadi Rum, a spectacular desert landscape and the backdrop for our camel, jeep and foot explorations. In the south we relax on the beautiful shores of Aqaba at the Red Sea. Our final days include visits to the Baptism site of John the Baptist with some time to relax on the Dead Sea, Madaba known as the 'City of Mosaics' and Mount Nebo with its prized monastery.

Itinerary

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If you are arriving into Queen Alia International Airport, Amman, on Day 1 you will be met and transferred to the group hotel. If you are not arriving on Day 1, please make your own way to the hotel or ask us for private transfer details (additional cost applies). Amman is the capital of Jordan, and was known in biblical times as Rabbath Ammon, and under the Ptolemies, as Philadelphia. It is situated on a series of Jebels (meaning hills) and is divided by wadi’s (or dry river beds) into modern and ancient quarters. Remainder of day at leisure to explore Amman. Please check at hotel reception for the time to meet your guide tomorrow.

Meals: Nil

After breakfast, we drive to Jerash, where we visit one of the largest and best preserved Graeco-Roman ruins in the Middle East. The grandeur of Imperial Rome is evident from the extensive remnants of this ancient city. We then continue to the village of Ajlun with its fortress and magnificent view into the Jordan Valley. Afterwards we will drive north to Um Qais, a city rich with basalt ruins and perched on a hilltop with excellent views overlooking the Jordan Valley, Golan heights and Lake Tiberius (the sea of Galilee). We will enjoy cooking a traditional meal with locals at Beit Khairat Souf. Dinner and overnight local guesthouse.

Meals: B,D

After breakfast we will visit Um Qais Castle, and afterwards transfer to the Desert Castles. We will visit Kharaneh, Qasr Amra, and Azraq. Scattered throughout the black basalt desert these temples stand as testament to the beginnings of Islamic civilisation and are widely considered the most spectacular monuments to early Islamic art. We return to the group hotel in Amman for overnight.

Meals: B

After breakfast we transfer to Mujib Nature Reserve for a hiking tour. NOTE: Depending on trail conditions and water levels, we may alter the trail chosen on the day. Generally the Siq trail in Wadi Mujib is only available from 1 April - 31 Oct. During the colder months from 1 Nov - 30 Mar, the Ibex trail will usually be used instead. (a) The Siq Trail - a moderate hike into the main gorge of the Mujib River (the Siq). It starts at the visitor centre near the Mujib Bridge, from where we take the cantilevered walkway over the dam and follow the course of the river between towering sandstone cliffs to the base of a large waterfall. Depending on the seasonal rainfall levels, the gorge may contain pools deep enough for swimming. It's an ideal walk to take slowly and enjoy the cool water and shade, especially in the warmer months. Be prepared with walking shoes with good grip, water shoes or sandals, and a change of clothes as you will be going into the water and getting wet. There is also some scrambling and use of ropes to get up and over large rocks, and walking along narrow paths. Should you have any concerns - please discuss these with your guide prior to the walk. (b) The Ibex Trail - this hike takes 3 to 4 hours. The trail begins at the visitor centre near the Mujib Bridge, from where we head south for a short distance (3 Kms) along the Dead Sea highway before turning onto a steeply ascending trail into the nature reserve. After the first steep climb, we hike along a wide track running parallel to the Dead Sea, which provides a startlingly blue backdrop throughout the hike. About one third of the distance along the trail, there is an optional detour up the mountainside to the castle ruins of Qasr Riyashi. The climb to the castle is strenuous but offers beautiful breathtaking views over the Dead Sea. There are an amazing variety of rock colours and formations along the route, with a chance of spotting Nubian Ibex. Afterwards we drive to Petra, where we check into our hotel for overnight. In the summer months (and time permitting during the colder months), we may be able to visit the well preserved crusader castle of Kerak on the way to Petra.

Meals: B

Chief among Jordan’s archaeological sites is the soul-stirring, rose-red city of Petra, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Petra is the legacy of the Nabataeans, an industrious Arab people who settled in south Jordan more than 2,000 years ago. This morning our visit of the ancient Nabatean Capital starts with a short walk to the entrance of the Siq, a long narrow fissure between two overhanging cliffs. We then walk through the Siq, with the sudden view of Petra’s most spectacular monument, the Khaznah (or Treasury) appearing dramatically at the end. Our tour gradually explores the mysteries of the ancient city with its Royal Tombs and burial chambers. No matter how many pictures of the Rose Red City you have seen, it will surpass your wildest expectations to see it for real. We return to our hotel in the evening. Note: Your entry ticket into the city of Petra includes a horse ride into the site and you will have the option to ride a donkey to the end of the Siq. In line with our commitment to animal welfare in tourism we encourage you to walk, rather than ride a horse and donkey. There have been a number of instances where travellers have been upset by the treatment of the horses and donkeys by their handlers.

Meals: B

Today we have our second visit to the ancient city of Petra, this time visiting the Monastery and the High Place of Sacrifices. There are many steps involved today as these specific sites are located at the top of ridgelines but the climbs are worth it. We overnight again at the same hotel.

Meals: B

Our first stop this morning is Beidha, also known as Little Petra. This is the place where the Nabateans used to entertain their guests in the 1st and 2nd centuries BC but it is believed this ancient settlement had its origins in the 11th century BC. After a short visit here we drive south to the enchanting desert of Wadi Rum, Jordan's largest desert and one of the most spectacular desert landscapes in the world. It is a unique valley of colored sand dunes surrounded by beautiful rugged mountains. We enjoy a jeep safari inside the Wadi to our Bedouin campsite and delight in a traditional dinner. NOTE - At the time of booking, there is an option to upgrade to a Martian Dome Tent - additional supplement applies; subject to availability.

Meals: B,D

After an early breakfast we will enjoy a 1 hour camel trek and do some exploring on foot in Wadi Rum, depending on the interests of the group. In the afternoon we transfer to Aqaba (approx 1 hour) where we check into our hotel. Remainder of day at leisure. Overnight hotel.

Meals: B

Day at leisure in the beautiful gulf city of Aqaba, Jordan’s only outlet to the sea. Those interested in scuba diving or snorkeling can enjoy the sport at one of the world’s most conserved coral reefs (own expense). Alternatively there are many cafes and restaurants and some colourful market places to explore. Overnight hotel.

Meals: B

After breakfast we transfer to the Dana Nature Reserve. Apart from its wildlife the reserve is rich with archaeological sites and culture. We visit for 2-3 hours and can do a short hike to some spectacular viewpoints above Dana Village, exploring the terraced gardens and local community craft workshops. From here we drive to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on the surface of the earth, where we check into our hotel for overnight.

Meals: B

Today is free for relaxing and swimming in the Dead Sea with its famously buoyant, warm and salty waters. Overnight hotel.

Meals: B

After breakfast we drive to the Bethany region, about 10km north of the Dead Sea along the Jordan River. This is the place where John the Baptist lived and is believed to have baptised Jesus Christ. It is also thought to have been on the early Christian pilgrimage route between Jerusalem, the Jordan River, and Mt. Nebo and hence has significant cultural importance. From here we visit the Monastery in Mount Nebo, a high hill overlooking the Dead Sea from where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land. Next we stop to visit the Christian Town of Madaba, "The City of Mosaics", best known for its beautiful Byzantine-era mosaics, including the ‘Madaba Map’, a 6th century mosaic map of the Holy Land. Afterwards we continue to Amman for our final night in Jordan.

Meals: B

Trip arrangements conclude in Amman after breakfast. If you are departing Jordan today, you will be transferred to the airport. If you require additional nights in Amman or a private transfer on any other day, please ask your Reservations Consultant for details. Additional cost applies.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

24 scheduled departures between 1 Nov 2026 and 13 Dec 2027.

  • Departs 1 Nov 2026 – ends 13 Nov 2026 (13 days)
  • Departs 9 Nov 2026 – ends 21 Nov 2026 (13 days)
  • Departs 22 Nov 2026 – ends 4 Dec 2026 (13 days)
  • Departs 30 Nov 2026 – ends 12 Dec 2026 (13 days)
  • Departs 6 Dec 2026 – ends 18 Dec 2026 (13 days)
  • Departs 14 Dec 2026 – ends 26 Dec 2026 (13 days)
  • … and 18 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 12 breakfasts and 2 dinners
  • airport transfers (day 1 and 13 only)
  • 10 nights in 3-4 star hotels on a twinshare basis
  • 1 night in local guesthouse on a twinshare basis
  • 1 night in Bedouin camp on a twinshare tent basis (option to upgrade in Wadi Rum to a Martian Dome Tent - additional supplement applies; subject to availability)
  • English speaking local driver
  • English speaking local guides at the major sites visited (English speaking guide throughout for 6 or more guests)
  • Wadi Rum 4WD tour
  • entrance fees and sightseeing as listed in itinerary
  • private transport

Not included

  • International flights
  • Airport departure taxes
  • Items of a personal nature (i.e. phone calls, laundry etc.)
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Tips
  • Visas
  • Travel Insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Airport transfers if not arriving/ departing on Days 1 & 13

About your guide

Please note that for groups of 2-5 people, you will have a local English-speaking driver only, and local guides at the major sites visited. For groups of 6 or more people, an English-speaking guide will accompany the group throughout, in addition to a local driver.

Reviews (12)

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What a trip. Our driver Sufian, was so passionate about his country and shared his knowledge freely. I highly recommend this trip to anyone

Patricia|ACT, Australia
18 Feb 2026
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Another wonderful trip with World Expeditions. In addition to the expected highlights of Petra, Wadi Rum, snorkelling in the Red Sea and floating in the Dead Sea, the unexpected delights of visiting a local family at Um Qais (and cooking/dining with them), the expansive Roman ruins at Jerash and our extraordinary driver Firas made this trip wonderful.

The small additional cost of having a representative meet us at the airport and guide us through immigration was well worth it. The process was very quick and smooth.

We would thoroughly recommend this trip.

Marilyn & Peter Surtees

Marilyn Surtees|St Ives, NSW Australia
15 Oct 2023
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Our trip to Jordan was excellent.

Despite being a little anxious about the procedure for getting a visa on arrival, the person who met us at the airport was fantastic. He moved us past long queues of people & took us to another desk, spoke to the visa officer & recieved our visas in about 2 mins!! This saved us hours at the airport at 11pm after a long flight. Excellent service. We then met our driver who accompanied us for the entire trip. From this arrival until our departure 14 days later, we had nothing but a wonderfully organised trip/

Maureen Barrow|North Sydney, NSW Australia
10 Oct 2023
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A fabulous trip to see all that amazing treasures that Jordan has to offer. Be prepared for loads of stairs and sometimes even rock climbing. But the people are lovely and the food amazing.

Andrew Tzelepis|North Melbourne, VIC Australia
26 Sep 2023
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A thoroughly enjoyable, well planned and balanced trip! I felt that we visited all the most interesting sites and the five star resort accommodation on the Red Sea and the Dead Sea were superb.

A. Shute|Macs Cove, VIC
23 May 2019
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Everybody needs to go to Jordan! It was the 44th country I’ve travelled to and definitely one of my favourites. The people, history and culture are all the reasons I will return to Jordan and the Middle East in future.

J. Smith|NSW, Australia
1 Nov 2018
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The sites were fantastic and the local guides wonderful. Petra was fascinating and the trek we took throughout the hills, city and Bedouin tents was both informative and interesting. Our guide was great. The walk up the river to the falls was fun and it was great to get wet in such a dry country! The night in the Bedouin camp and the trip in the desert gave us a real taste of the country. Our driver/guide provided here was excellent. Trips to the Jordan River and the Dead Sea were less interesting, however, we loved the accommodations. We found all the people we met to be friendly and helpful. All in all, a wonderful trip.

P. Owen|Niagara Falls, ON, Canada
21 Dec 2017
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We had a great trip in Jordan. There were 4 people so our driver Karleelil, who was fantastic, acted as both our driver and guide on many occasions The trip gave us an excellent overview of this diverse country and included a good range of activities. The people were all very friendly which added to the trip experience.

Sue Armstrong|Springwood, NSW
21 Oct 2016
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A fantastic tour that comprehensively covers Jordan in two weeks without feeling hurried. Our group was only 4 people so we didn't have a permanent guide with us but our driver more than filled this role. Local guides were then assigned at each location so we didn't miss out on anything. A truly wonderful trip to a truly fascinating place.

Carla Measures|Halifax, UK
12 Oct 2016

Extra trip info

AccommodationWill My Trip Run?
Martian Dome Tent external views

Upgrade to a Martian Dome Tent in the Wadi Rum

Stay in futuristic domes that offer amazing stargazing spectacles and a vista of sand dune valleys and rugged mountains. The Martian Dome Tents offer the unique experience of combined luxury and spectacular views. Imagine gazing at the magnificent stars from your own comfortable bed. The living quarters have individual air-conditioning, a private bathroom, and even your very own viewing terrace.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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