Kingdoms of Jordan - Premium Adventure

We start at our hotel in Amman on day 1 of the itinerary.  Those on the

group flights from London will arrive in the evening.  Land only clients

need to provide their flight details if they would like to receive a free

arrival transfer. Your expert leader, Muayad Mismar, will leave instructions

for you at the hotel. Premium accommodation: Crown Plaza Hotel, Amman (5

star)

This morning we drive north to the awe-inspiring, ruined city of Jerash,
known as Gerasa in ancient times, and awash with imposing colonnades, ancient
temples and theatres. This was one of the ten wealthy, self-governing cities
of the Decapolis during Roman times, and was famous throughout the Roman
world for its affluent lifestyle. Buried for centuries under blown sand,
Jerash is the only city of the Decapolis to have survived, with a dramatic
oval forum, colonnaded main streets which remarkably have the drains still
intact, two theatres and the impressive Temple of Zeus.After a good look
around, we head back to Amman for an exciting city tour where we’ll visit
notable ancient sites such as the Citadel, Roman Theatre and the old city.
Take in the striking views of the capital of the Kingdom of Jordan from the
heady hights of the Citadel complex.This evening we enjoy a welcome dinner at
a local restaurant and sample some traditional Jordanian food. Premium
accommodation: Crown Plaza Hotel, Amman (5 star)

Today we head along the famous King's Highway, an old trade route which
connects Amman and Petra, weaving up and down huge 'wadis' (valleys). There
are several stops of interest en route, including the ancient town of Madaba,
known as the city of the mosaics; the biblical Mt Nebo where Moses was
believed to have witnessed the Promised Land; and the crusader castle of
Kerak which stands on a rocky outcrop.Further south we reach the UNESCO World
Heritage Site of Petra; Jordan's premier historic site and one of the world's
most outstanding ancient cities. Also known as the rose-red city, Petra is a
phenomenal sandstone city made up of ornate palaces, temples and tombs that
are carved into the cliffs. Your expert leader will reveal all about the
history of this spectacular ancient city.Premium accommodation: Old Village
Hotel & Resort, Petra (5 star)

Enjoy two days exploring the striking Nabatean Kingdom of Petra, known as
rose-red city, 'half as old as time'. Petra was hidden for centuries until
the Swiss explorer Burckhardt made his great discovery in 1812. Two features
of Petra are unique: firstly, it is a city made defensible by being built
down a series of chasms, rather than on a hilltop. Secondly, it is built
directly into the rock - beautiful red and yellow sandstone carved into the
most impressive facades which sparkle in sunlight.To enter Petra your expert
leader, Muayad, will take you down a narrow chasm, known as the Siq,
surrounded by high cliffs on either side. Explore the wondrous Al Khazneh, an
elaborate temple known as The Treasury which was once inhabited by the Arabs
of the Nabatean Kingdom. This is just the first of many wonderful sites to
explore. Continuing to the centre of the city, we pass the houses and visit
the tombs of the rich citizens. Witness the vastness and sheer beauty of this
ancient city from various vantage points. There is also an optional walk up
850 steps to El Deir, a monumental monastery carved out of rock.On the second
day your leader will take you into the site either for an optional hike up to
the High Place of Sacrifice, a clifftop sacrificial altar with immense views
over Petra, or for free time to explore the city further. Only a few people
attempt a visit to the High Place as it can be quite arduous and is not
recommended for those who are unsure of their fitness or are uncomfortable
with heights. However, those who do make it to the top are rewarded with
wonderful views over parts of the site visited on the previous day.Premium
accommodation: Old Village Hotel & Resort, Petra (5 star)

This morning there is the option to take a guided tour through the intriguing
archaeological site of Little Petra or you can relax at our premium
accommodation before we join the modern Desert Highway and make our way south
to Aqaba, Jordan’s only coastal city, on the Red Sea. The purpose of
Little Petra is not clear, however, archaeologists believe it was probably a
suburb of Petra where visiting traders on the silk route may have
stayed. Aqaba is Jordan's picturesque port famous for its beautiful coral
reefs, ancient ruins and stunning scenery.Our hotel has a private white-sand
beach with direct access to the Red Sea where you can dip your toes in the
water and absorb the coastal views. The day is free to relax and enjoy the
facilities of this 5-star hotel. Meet for a sundowner overlooking the sea
before heading out for dinner at one of the exceptional restaurants in Aqaba.
Enjoy a taste of the traditional Jordanian cuisine and sample some of the
fresh, local seafood, which is a speciality in the area.Premium
accommodation: Intercontinental Hotel, Aqaba (5 star)

Today we enter the natural and cultural World Heritage Site of Wadi Rum where
dramatic sandstone mountains rise from the sandy desert floor. This is where
Lawrence of Arabia and Prince Faisal assembled the Arab tribes for the attack
on Aqaba in the First World War and also where sections of the 1962 epic film
were shot.After checking into our premium UFO camp, we join a thrilling,
4-hour 4x4 jeep trip to explore some of the highlights of this protected
area. The spellbinding Wadi Rum is a favourite of Muayad’s, your expert
leader, and his passion and knowledge of the desert landscape is unmatched.
Experience an authentic Zarb dinner (cooked underground) at our Bedouin camp
and relax beneath the stars above your premium unique dome pod.Premium
accommodation: UFO Camp, Wadi Rum (5 star)

Leaving the Mars-like landscape of Wadi Rum we head to the Dead Sea which is
one of the most fascinating places on earth. Enjoy free time to experience
floating in the saline waters and smothering yourself in Dead Sea mud before
cooling off in one of the two infinity pools at our premium accommodation. A
totally relaxing way to end your Jordan adventure. This evening there will
be a memorable group dinner to celebrate your time in Jordan and say your
farewells. Premium accommodation: Hilton Dead Sea Hotel & Spa, Dead Sea (5
star)

Your tour ends this morning after breakfast at the Dead Sea.