Cycle Jordan: Petra & Wadi Rum
Cycle Jordan: Petra & Wadi Rum
9 Days Starting in Amman and ending in Madaba
Visiting: Amman, Jerash, Dead Sea, and Madaba, Mount Nebo & Shobak, Little Petra & Bedouin Camp, Petra, Wadi Araba & Aqaba, Wadi Rum, Disi Mud Flats & Madaba, Madaba
Tour operator:
Tour code:
EEXC
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Physical rating:
High, High
Age range:
16-99 years
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
From:
$2795
$2175 (USD)
Operator discount: -$559
The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$61
-22%
Tour Overview
From the shores of the Dead Sea to the top of ancient Petra, Jordan is a country as rich in surreal landscapes as it is in natural charm. Places such as the ruins of ancient Jerash seem so perfectly preserved, it’s almost as if they froze in time; Mount Nebo, said to once be savoured by Moses as he looked on towards the Promised Land, offers views revered since antiquity; and the deserts around Wadi Rum seem to glow the colour of the earth’s blood. Experience the best that Jordan has to offer as you feel the winds of the desert shift into the breath of the mountain, all the while pedalling from the top of your faithful bike.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Amman
Location: Amman
Accommodation: Hotel
Ahlan Wa Sahlan! Welcome to Jordan, cosmopolitan and contemporary, yet steeped in biblical history. Your adventure begins with a Welcome Meeting at 6 pm on Day 1. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please have these on hand. Should you require a transfer from the airport, this can be arranged on site for $30 a person, or $15 per person for groups of two or more.
As you don’t spend too much time in Amman, it's worth arriving a day or two early to explore the sights. If you do have time, be sure to head to the citadel, taking in its amazing sweeping views of Amman. The Jordan Museum (home to the Dead Sea Scrolls) and the Roman Theatre are both well worth visiting. After your meeting, head out with your new-found travel pals, and perhaps pick up a coffee from one of the cafes and partner it with an ara’yes – a local-style toastie filled with spiced meat.
Included Activities:
-
Optional Activities:
-
-
-
-
-
Day 2: Jerash, Dead Sea, And Madaba
Location: Jerash, Dead Sea, and Madaba
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast
Depart from Amman and travel to Jerash, once one of the grandest Roman cities in the world which currently stands as an excellently preserved insight into Greco-Roman times of old. The city thrived due to its position on the route of spice and incenses trade, reaching its zenith as a favourite of Emperor Hadrian around AD 130. The ancient walled town survives today as a remarkable evocation of life 2000 years ago, offering a striking collection of archways, theatres, public buildings and colonnaded streets. It’s a beautiful place to spend a day exploring.
After exploring the ruins, take a vehicle transfer (approximately 1.5hrs) arrive at Al-Maghtas, the baptismal site of Jesus Christ on the banks of the Jordan River. Take some time to wander this area of incredible spiritual importance before starting your first proper cycle of the trip. Begin cycling at 300 metres below sea level (it's weird, we know) and ride downhill towards the red stone cliffs high above the shores of the shimmering Dead Sea, with Israel in the near distance. It's a short first ride (approx. 30kms) but the terrain is undulating with a couple of short sharp hills to get your lungs working. The amazing views alone make it worthwhile.
Once the ride is done, take some time to wash off the sweat at Amman Beach, lying on the shores of the Dead Sea. The water here is said to have excellent healing properties due to the high salt content, serving as the perfect way to wrap up a big ride. Afterwards, head to Madaba to relax at the hotel for the rest of the evening.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 3: Mount Nebo & Shobak
Location: Mount Nebo & Shobak
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
After a drive this morning, arrive at Mount Nebo. This legendary site marks the location where Moses looked across to the Promised Land – this would later serve as the location of his death and subsequent burial.
Begin cycling with a descent into the lands below on a 43 kilometre (28 mile) ride towards Mukawir, the location of the Castle of Herod the Great. This fortified hilltop palace serves as the rumoured site where John the Baptist was imprisoned and executed while Herod’s son resided at the site.
Later on in the day transfer to our accommodation overlooking the mighty Shobak Castle.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 4: Little Petra & Bedouin Camp
Location: Little Petra & Bedouin Camp
Accommodation: Bedouin Camp
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner
This morning visit the imposing Shobak Castle, the first of the series of Crusader Castles built in Jordan; which was constructed by Baldwin I in 1115 and only surrendered in 1189 to the Great Salahdin.
From Shobak, continue on as you cycle on road towards Little Petra. The route, stretching for 38 kilometres (23 miles), contours around the mountains of Dana and Petra while offering great views across the Jordan Valley. The last part of the ride is a thrill as you descend 9km down a good quality but winding road all the way down to Little Petra itself, then cycle to our camp hiding within the rocks. As you prepare for an overnight stay, the comfort and the hospitality of the Bedouins provides a more than welcome finish to a big day on and off the road.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 5: Petra
Location: Petra
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast
Leave the camp at Little Petra and head towards Petra's visitor’s centre for a full day of exploration off the bike. Enter the city through the narrow gorge, lying flanked by towering cliffs of dazzling, colourful rocks. Once arriving at Petra, explore the hundreds of elaborate rock-cut tombs, the treasury, Roman-style theatres, temples, sacrificial altars and colonnaded streets before continuing on to explore the city’s amphitheatre, multiple caves and tombs.
If you’re feeling courageous, perhaps avoid the crowds to visit the monastery, the Khubtha Mountain or the High Place of Sacrifice. To explore this area, take a steep climb up ancient Nabataean steps to a point near the summit of Al Khubtha to enjoy a magnificent panorama overlooking the treasury before descending to Petra’s main entrance. Alternatively, continue on and hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice to enjoy more spectacular views over the rocky desert terrain. At this point, the option to push past 800 steps offers the reward of the stunning monastery, lying carved and exposed in a rock face.
Included Activities:
-
Day 6: Wadi Araba & Aqaba
Location: Wadi Araba & Aqaba
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast
Leave the Nabataean city and drive back to Little Petra, where the next cycling adventure begins. Enjoy a stunning 45 kilometre descent, dropping around 1200 metres (4000ft) on a little-used winding country road through the dry mountains of Wadi Araba into the lush greenery of the Jordan Valley. The views on the way down are stunning! To avoid the busy traffic on the Kings Highway we re-board our vehicle and drive into Aqaba.
Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Aqaba - perhaps take an optional shuttle and spend at a private beach Red Sea.
Included Activities:
-
Day 7: Wadi Rum
Location: Wadi Rum
Accommodation: Bedouin Camp
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner
After spending the night in Aqaba, leave early and continue on to the mountains. Transit by vehicle (approx. 30 mins) then cycle alongside the ancient Hejaz Railway en route to Wadi Rum.
Upon arrival at Wadi Rum, enjoy a late lunch before hopping in a jeep and departing for a 3 hour safari across the sandy canyons and mountains in the area, Take in the spectacle of the Seven Pillars of Wisdom rock formation before returning to camp to watch the sun set. As the night rolls in, enjoy a camp dinner with the Bedouin hosts by the fire over a cup of locally brewed tea. Take one last look at the endless star-scape above before tucking into your tent for the night.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 8: Disi Mud Flats & Madaba
Location: Disi Mud Flats & Madaba
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch
Say goodbye to your newfound Bedouin friends and travel to Disi. After arriving at Disi, embark on a 37 kilometre (23 mile) ride around the local (dry!) mud flats. After taking in the haunting landscapes, enjoy lunch then transfer back to Madaba for the final overnight stay of the trip – perhaps sharing a dinner with your group to reminisce on the journey just passed.
Included Activities:
-
Day 9: Madaba
Location: Madaba
Meals Included: breaksfast
This trip comes to an end today. There are no activities planned and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time before noon.
What's Included
-
Petra - Guided tour
-
Jerash - Roman ruins
-
Shobak - Shobak Castle
-
Accommodation
Hotel (6 nights), Desert camp (2 nights)
-
Transport
Bicycle, Support Vehicle, Jeep
-
Meals
8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
-
6 Days Included Bicycle Hire
-
Guided & vehicle-supported cycling - Mt Nebo to Mukawir
-
Guided & vehicle-supported cycling - Dead sea
-
Mt Nebo - Mt Nebo Entrance
What's Not Included
-
Tipping and Gratuities
-
International Travel
-
Airport Transfers at Destination
Included Activities
- Jerash - Roman ruins
- Shobak - Shobak Castle
- Petra - Guided tour
Transport
- While there are occasions we use local public transport such as trains, buses or taxis to cover long distances or attend non-cycling activities we predominantly use the bicycle as our main form of transport. On most of our trips we also have a support vehicle as secondary transport for travelling longer distances, avoiding hazardous areas to cycle, as a backup should we have any incidents and of course an option for those that would prefer not to cycle for an hour or a day. These vehicles range from a minivan in most regions up to a full sized coach or overland vehicle in others.
- Your main luggage is transported in the support vehicle
- An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
- INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
- You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- OUR BIKES – JORDAN
- On this trip we use 2020/2021 Scott Aspect 740 bikes. These bikes are mountain bike-style with flat bars, Suntour front suspension, Shimano Deore/Alivio groupset, and hydraulic disc brakes).
- E-BIKE OPTION
- There is an option to request an e-bike (at additional cost) on this trip - please speak to your agent.
- All bookings are on request only until confirmed with our supplier. You must provide us your height when requesting this e-bike option. We have size Small, Medium and Large sizes available however E-bikes in Jordan are VERY limited as we only have 1 bike in each size - please book early!
- Size S suits 153-166cm, size M suits 161-175cm, and size L suits 174-188cm - please specify your preference at time of requesting.
- Make & model are Trek Powerfly 5 2022 model (hardtail), with RockShox fork and Deore XT/Deore groupset, equipped with Bosch Performance CX 250W 85Nm mid-drive motor and Bosch PowerTube 625 Wh battery
- BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKE
- While we’re confident in the quality and suitability of the bikes we include, we do recognise that sometimes you just need the comfort of your own bike to enjoy the ride. If you are thinking of bringing your own bike on this trip, please advise us at time of booking and take note of the below information. If you do choose to bring your own bike, please note that we will not being carrying a spare bike for you.
- SUITABLE TYPE OF BIKE
- Although the surfaces of the roads we travel on are generally good there are occasionally gravel or potholed sections of road/track. As such, we recommend a 'mountain' or 'hybrid' style bike with plenty of gear selections for easy cruising. For more details on the type of roads we’ll be riding on see the ‘Physical Rating’ section of your Essential Trip Information. Please contact your booking agent if you have any questions about the suitability of your bike.
- We usually cannot accept tandem bikes on our trips as they are often too large for our transport. In some destinations we can make an exception. Please ask your booking agent if you are interested in bringing a tandem bike.
- BEFORE THE TRIP
- We recommend that you have a full service of your bike performed by a trained mechanic to help minimise any issues you may have during the trip. Please also ensure that you have specific and adequate cover for loss, damage or theft for your bike under your travel, home and contents or specialist insurance policy.
- DURING THE TRIP
- Your bike will be transported in the same way as our included bikes, usually in the support vehicle or on the bike trailer. While we endeavour to take the best care we can, you should recognise that transported bikes do get the occasional bump or scratch along the way. The same applies when we take other forms of transport, such as a train, where we are unable to pack the bikes ourselves. Your bike will be secured in the same way as our included bikes. This can occasionally be outside the vehicle (where the bikes are locked together).
- In order to reach our destination, it is necessary for us to travel via various modes of transportation, including planes and trains. Any extra costs involved with transporting personal bikes are your responsibility. This includes (but is not limited to) additional transport costs and customs/import fees.
- While our mechanics can usually assist with minor repairs, you are responsible for the safety and upkeep of your own bicycle. This includes conducting regular safety checks of your bike during the trip and cleaning your bike. In addition, any parts that require replacing are your responsibility. Most destinations have access to only limited spares along the way and access to bike shops can be days apart. Therefore, please ensure you bring any spare parts that you may require (especially specialist parts).
- TRANSPORTING YOUR BIKE TO/FROM THE DESTINATION
- Your preferred airline should have no problem carrying your bike, but many will charge an extra fee. Contact them before departing to discuss their arrangements for transporting bikes.
- A well-padded bike box (obtainable from a bike shop) is usually the best method of plane transportation. We recommend that you accompany your bicycle on the flight. Unaccompanied bicycles have been known to spend some extra days in the hands of customs authorities.
- Many taxis are not large enough to transport a bike box/bag so you may be delayed waiting for a suitably sized vehicle.
- INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
- You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Accommodation
- The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
- Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
- OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
- The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
- ACCOMMODATION STYLE
- Some of the accommodation along the way is basic or simple, three and four-star accommodation in the Middle East (with the exception of Israel)Â is often not equal to same-star facilities in some western destinations. Rooms are clean and comfortable, however, you may note some small maintenance issues that have been overlooked, please assist us by bringing these to the attention of your group leader or local representative so that we can follow up with our hosts. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws. Breakfast is included in 95% or our hotels, pleaser refer to our daily itinerary for meal inclusions.
- TWIN SHARE / MULTI SHARE BASIS
- Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multi-share basis.
- CHECK-IN TIME
- Throughout the trip, we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination. Standard check-in time is 1400 hours.
- PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
- If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (subject to availability), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
- SHOWERS
- Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.
- HEATING AND AIR-CONDITIONING
- As a desert region, this part of the world has extremes of weather. Winter months (approx December to March) can be very cold. All of our hotel accommodation contains suitable bedding, and simple light bedding is provided during camping activities such as an overnight felucca, desert camps or at the Red Sea Beach camp stay. Most of our travellers find the bedding provided here adequate, but for your own comfort and if you are particularly sensitive to the cold, consider bringing your own sleeping bag, thermals, scarf, gloves and a warm jacket. Some of our guesthouses/hotels don't supply heating. In many cases, this would be a major financial and environmental strain on our hotels and the local towns. Summer (approx June to August) can be very hot everywhere we travel, which means that it can be quite uncomfortable for those not used to the heat. Not all our hotels have air-conditioning, and in those that do, it's not always functioning.
- ROOM ISSUES
- If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your group leader or local representative right away so that the problem can be addressed without delay.
Important Information
- 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
- 2. Bicycle hire is included in your trip price. Please advise your height at time of booking so as we can organize a suitable sized bike. An e-bike option (at additional cost) is available on request.
- 3. Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home.
- 4. On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
Check out our Q&As
-
Are international flights included in this tour?
No
-
Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No
-
Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Yes if aged 15+ and accompanied by an adult
-
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
-
Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No
-
Is this trip right for you
To complete this trip it is important that you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
There is quite a bit of walking involved in visiting Jordan's historic sites, especially in Petra and Wadi Rum, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. Most of the time there is no shade so remember to bring a hat, sun protection, and sturdy, comfortable walking shoes.
Winters can get quite cool, so if you're visiting at this time, don't forget to pack some warmer layers too.
The desert camp in Wadi Rum is basic but incredibly memorable. There are tents and shared western bathroom facilities. Please be aware that while the desert may be very hot during the day, it will still be cool at night and warm clothes are highly recommended when travelling outside of the summer months.
For those looking to all the riding but with a little less effort an e-bike option is available (on request) on this trip. -
Are all entrance fees included in the price?
Yes, except optional activities
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
Reviews of this Operator
Dates & Availability
tourhub Discount Available - Sign In
2024 Oct
2024 Nov
2024 Dec
2024 Feb
2025 Mar
2025 Apr
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025 Dec
2025
Saturday - Sunday
Sep 14, 2024 - Sep 22, 2024Saturday - Sunday
Oct 12, 2024 - Oct 20, 2024Saturday - Sunday
Nov 23, 2024 - Dec 01, 2024Saturday - Sunday
Dec 21, 2024 - Dec 29, 2024Saturday - Sunday
Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 02, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Mar 15, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Mar 22, 2025 - Mar 30, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Mar 29, 2025 - Apr 06, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Apr 19, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Apr 26, 2025 - May 04, 2025Saturday - Sunday
May 03, 2025 - May 11, 2025Saturday - Sunday
May 17, 2025 - May 25, 2025Saturday - Sunday
May 31, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 22, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 20, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 27, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Oct 11, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Oct 18, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Oct 25, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Nov 15, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 07, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
COVID Protection
Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards
From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19.
However, we continue to strongly recommend that all travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and other Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.
This policy excludes all Polar trips and select adventure cruises, where testing and vaccination remains a requirement. Please refer to the Essential Trip Information of your chosen tour for more details. -
Terms and Conditions
Why book with tourhub?
Safe & Secure
Your money is protected in an external trust until you travel.
100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.
The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.
Guaranteed Best Value
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.
(Operator terms may apply)
Expert Knowledge
Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.
Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.
Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.
Trusted Service
Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.
Don't just take our word for it...
"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."