Essential Jordan

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 about a 30-minute drive. Check in and have 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.

After breakfast, drive to Jerash (50km,1hr), 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.

Afterwards, return to Amman, and delve into the city's rich history with a guided tour of its historical sites. Begin at Citadel Hill, where you'll discover remains dating from the Roman to the early Islamic period and visit the Archaeological Museum to further explore Jordan's heritage. 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.

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

This morning you will drive to the Dead Sea (54km, 1hr), the lowest point on Earth sitting at 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.

Next you will drive to Kerak Castle (120km, 1.5hrs), a remarkable Crusader fortress 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. From here you will travel to Dana Village (60km, 1hr 15m), 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.

Finally, head to Feynan Ecolodge (90km, 2hrs), nestled in the heart of the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Hailed as one of the best 25 ecolodges in the world by National Geographic Traveler Magazine, this enchanting lodge offers the most developed eco-experience in Jordan.

Staying at Feynan Ecolodge is a truly enriching and memorable experience, rooted in sustainability, community engagement, and natural beauty. It is entirely off-grid, constructed from adobe (a blend of mud and straw), and operates without conventional electricity. While there may be limited charging opportunities in the lobby, it is recommended you bring a power bank if you feel you will need to charge devices on this night. Lighting is provided by candles and lanterns, creating a peaceful, magical ambiance at night. The rooms are simple yet beautiful, blending comfort with natural design.

When approaching the lodge, your guide will accompany you to the edge of the reserve and then for the final 5-10-minute journey from the main road, you'll transfer into a local Bedouin vehicle. This approach is actively encouraged by the lodge to provide income to the surrounding Bedouin community. These vehicles are rustic and well-worn, often dusty and marked from years of use – all part of the authentic experience.

Feynan Ecolodge offers various activities, some are free of charge, and others can be paid directly to the lodge with all funds going to the local Bedouins in Feynan. These can include visiting archaeological sites, sunset walks through the landscape, cooking classes and visiting archaeological sites. You will be advised when you check in as to what activities are available on the day. You are also welcome to simply relax and unwind in the serene courtyards or rooftop terrace.

After breakfast you will travel in a Bedouin vehicle for the short distance back to the edge of the reserve where your guide will be waiting for you. From there you will drive to Petra (65km, 1.5hrs), 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 Facades to explore the Royal Tombs 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.

After breakfast at your hotel in Petra, drive to Wadi Rum (113km, 1hr 50m). 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 Wadi Rum, 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.

Note: 4x4s in Wadi Rum are old vehicles and belong to the Bedouin association

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)