Current as of: March 11, 2025 - 02:04
Kingdoms of Jordan - Premium Adventure Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Premium Adventures
- Destination: Jordan
- Programmes: Culture
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Activity Level:
2 out of 7 - Easy & Moderate
- 9 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: AXM
- Carbon Footprint: 56kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Discover Petra, Wadi Rum, the Red Sea and Dead Sea in comfort
Join one of our expert tour leaders on a wonder-filled journey through Jordan. You’ll spend two days exploring the temples and tombs of Petra, before taking in the Mars-like landscape of the Wadi Rum desert. In the latter, you’ll stay in a desert camp in luxurious Bedouin inspired cabins, witness fiery sunsets and experience star-filled skies around the campfire. We’ll also spend time in the classical age, exploring the excellently preserved Roman city of Jerash, before soaking up immense views across the Red Sea and floating in the salt waters of the Dead Sea.
At a Glance
- Accommodation: 8 Premium nights (7 hotel, 1 Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum)
- Travel by private air-conditioned bus and 4WD in Wadi Rum
- Group normally 4 to 16 plus tour leader
Highlights
- Discover Jordan’s highlights and unwind in premium accommodation
- Spend two unforgettable days exploring Petra, a New Wonder of the World
- Stargaze and enjoy traditional music at our luxury Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum
- Experience the surreal feeling of floating in the salty Dead Sea
- Take a peaceful day to relax on a private white-sand beach by the Red Sea
- Time travel as you walk through the well-preserved Roman ruins in Amman and Jerash
Is This Trip for You?
This trip has been rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Although this is a cultural trip, some days, such as those in Petra, are long and you should be ready to expend some energy. To do the optional 850 steps up to the monastery or the climb up to the High Place of Sacrifice you should have a reasonable level of fitness. Your leader can provide you with further advice about these hikes. It is not advisable to do the High Place of Sacrifice if you suffer from vertigo as there are some very steep narrow steps and cliffs. The leader always accompanies anyone doing this option. If you don’t do the optional hikes, there is still plenty to see by wandering through the ancient city.
In very rare instances where local conditions require, we may need to amend the order of the itinerary, but we will ensure that elements of the itinerary are still included and site visits are of the same duration.
Ramadan: The holy month of Ramadan is expected to run from 28 February to 29 March 2025 and 17 February to 19 March 2026. One of the most important periods in the Islamic calendar, it is a special time to visit a Muslim country. Our tour leaders and drivers choose to work at this time so we continue to run trips; however, their energy levels may be slightly lower than normal. Many tourist sites, restaurants and shops run an amended schedule, but your tour leader knows how to adapt the itinerary to experience all the inclusions on this trip and maximise your experience during this special time.
Group
The group will generally be between four and 16 people. All departures have a tour leader, chosen for their expertise. They are fully qualified English-speaking Jordanian guides.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Amman
- End City: Dead Sea
Land Only Itinerary
Depart for Amman; transfer to hotel
Our flight usually arrives in Amman, capital of Jordan, late tonight or very early in the morning tomorrow. We’ll catch our transfer to the hotel and head straight to bed.
Total drive time: 45 minutes to one hour
Premium accommodation: InterContinental Amman
Start Amman
Welcome to Amman, the capital of Jordan, where our adventure begins. There are free transfers to the hotel from Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) for all customers today. Please note, transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Depending on what time you arrive, you might want to make use of the pool or perhaps book yourself in for a post-flight refresher at the spa. Your expert leader will leave instructions for you at the hotel.
Total drive time: 45 minutes to one hour
Premium accommodation: InterContinental Amman
Visit Jerash then Amman city tour
This morning we drive north to the ruined city of Jerash, known as Gerasa in ancient times, which is awash with imposing colonnades, ancient temples and theatres. This was one of the 10 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 heights of the Citadel complex.
This evening, we enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant and sample traditional Jordanian food.
Total drive time: three hours (with stops along the way)
Premium accommodation: InterContinental Amman
Drive down King's Highway to Petra via Mount Nebo, Madaba and Kerak
Today we head along the King’s Highway, an old trade route that 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 Mount 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, the premier historical site in Jordan and one of the most outstanding ancient cities in the world. Also known as the rose-red city, Petra is a phenomenal sandstone complex of ornate palaces, temples and tombs carved into the cliffs. Your expert leader will reveal all about the history of this New Wonder of the World.
Total drive time: Approximately six hours (with stops along the way)
Premium accommodation: Grand Mercure Petra or Old Village Resort
Two days exploring the Nabataean kingdom of Petra
Enjoy two days exploring the striking Nabataean Kingdom of Petra, which was hidden for centuries until the Swiss explorer Burckhardt rediscovered it 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 will take you down a narrow chasm, known as the Siq, which is surrounded by high cliffs on either side. You’ll explore Al Khazneh, an elaborate temple known as The Treasury, which was once inhabited by the Arabs of the Nabataean Kingdom. Continuing to the city centre, we pass 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, you’ll return to Petra, either for an optional hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice (accompanied by a local Bedouin guide), 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. However, those who do make it to the top are rewarded with wonderful views over parts of the site visited on the previous day.
Total drive time: 30 minutes per day (round trip to the visitor center)
Premium accommodation: Grand Mercure Petra or Old Village Resort
Explore Wadi Rum from the comfort of our luxurious desert camp
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 drive south.
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 where sections of the epic film, Lawrence of Arabia (1962), were shot.
After checking into our luxury camp, we join a thrilling, four-hour 4WD trip to the highlights of this protected area. Experience an authentic zarb dinner (cooked underground) at our Bedouin camp and relax beneath the stars around the camp fire.
Total drive time: 1hr 30min to two hours
Premium accommodation: Saraya luxury camp
Drive to Aqaba; relax by the Red Sea
Leaving the Mars-like landscape of Wadi Rum, we head to Aqaba on the Red Sea. The city is well-known for having beautiful coral reefs. 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 rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the facilities of this five-star hotel. We can meet for a sundowner overlooking the sea before heading out for dinner. Enjoy a taste of traditional Jordanian cuisine and sample fresh, local seafood, which is a speciality in the area.
Total drive time: One hour to 1hr 30min
Premium accommodation: Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort
Drive from Aqaba to the Dead Sea
Leaving Aqaba, we head to the Dead Sea, one of the most fascinating places on Earth. Enjoy free time to float in the saline waters and smother 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.
Total drive time: four to five hours
Premium accommodation: Hilton Dead Sea Hotel & Spa
Transfer to international airport
Transfer directly to the international aiport for your flight home. This journey takes around an hour or less and does not need to pass through Amman so it avoids the city traffic.
Total drive time: one hour
End Dead Sea
The tour comes to an end after one last breakfast. Hop in the arranged group transfer to the airport to make your return journey home. Or, if you’re craving more salty sea days, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay by the Dead Sea.
Total drive time: one hour
Accommodation
Premium hotels and a luxury Bedouin camp
Accommodation on this cultural adventure in Jordan comprises premium hotels and a Premium Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum. Below are the hotels we normally use on this trip.
Amman: InterContinental Amman (nights 1-2)
Ease into the trip with two nights at this five-star hotel, which overlooks the white city of Amman. Enjoy a cocktail by the outdoor pool or book yourself into the spa, which has an indoor pool, hot tub and steam rooms. Foodies should love their time here, with a variety of restaurants available, including the award-winning Bourj Al Hamam, which serves delectable Lebanese dishes.
Petra: Grand Mercure Petra or Old Village Resort (nights 3-5)
In Petra, we either stay at the Grand Mercure or the Old Village Resort (above), both five-star properties. The former is reminiscent of a fortress, occupying an elevated position with plenty of dreamy views over the Rift Valley. It also has a pool, a Bedouin tent with more valley views, and a Mediterranean restaurant. The latter offers spectacular views over the mountains, plus rooms showcasing the work of local artisans. There are indoor and outdoor pools too, plus a restaurant serving local, Middle Eastern and European dishes.
Wadi Rum: Saraya camp (night 6)
Surrounded by sandstone peaks, this Premium camp provides an authentic Bedouin adventure in the heart of the Wadi Rum desert. The level of comfort is undoubtedly among the best in the area; each of the sleeping cabins has a well-fitted bathroom, heating and air conditioning. There’s also a restaurant where the chefs embrace traditional cooking techniques plus beautiful sunsets to enjoy most evenings.
Aqaba: Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort (night 7)
Relax at this five-star Hyatt Regency, an amenity-packed waterside resort. Enjoy leisure time in the expansive pool, sip cocktails with marina views at Cascades pool bar, and dine in one of the many excellent eateries. The 285 modern rooms all have a terrace with peace-inducing views over the lagoons and the mountains or marina.
Dead Sea: Hilton Dead Sea Hotel & Spa (night 8)
Enjoy five-star treatment at the lowest point on land with a stay at this Hilton hotel. There’s direct access to the beach (where you’ll find the only floating pontoon in the area) or order a fresh juice or draft beer at the swim-up bar in one of the infinity pools.
Worth knowing
- The accommodation shown has been booked and agreed in advance; however, we may need to make changes to a property of similar or higher standard after you have booked. We endeavour to inform you of any changes in advance, which could, on rare occasions, be at late notice.
Single supplement from £ 750
Food & Drink
All breakfasts, three lunches and four dinners are included.
Dinners are included at the Wadi Rum camp and Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa. In Amman, we include a welcome dinner at a restaurant known for its excellent Jordanian food. Dinner on the first night in Petra is included at our hotel.
In Aqaba, we include sundowners from the private beach overlooking the Red Sea.
When not on half board, we usually eat in local restaurants and the leader arranges bookings for those in the group who would like to join. We suggest you budget around 20 Jordanian dinars per person (US$28) per non-included meals.
If you are vegetarian, please note that main meals are limited in choice; however, meze is almost always available in restaurants and is a good, filling vegetarian choice. There is a good choice of seafood available when at the Red Sea. At the Wadi Rum camp, we enjoy a traditional dinner called zarb, which is cooked underground. This consists of rice with a selection including chicken, lamb and vegetables. Vegetables are cooked separately to the meat.
Transport
For most of this trip we use a private air-conditioned bus, with a local driver. To reach the Wadi Rum camp and to explore the surrounding desert, we use basic 4×4 vehicles, owned by the Bedouins. The vehicles are appropriate for local desert travel but may fall below normal vehicle safety standards expected on our trips. As there are no other vehicles available and as we are not travelling by road, we feel they are an adequate means of transport.
Weather & Seasonality
Spring and autumn are very popular times to visit Jordan as it is cooler, around 24C (75F) in the day and down to 8C (46F) at night. Rain is more likely, but protracted bad weather is unlikely. It is hot and dry, but not unpleasant, throughout Jordan in the summer. Daytime maximum temperatures are around 32C (89F) in Amman. Jerash temperatures are the same.
Wadi Rum is around 30C (86F) on average in summer, though it can get as high as 40C (104F). At night it is usually cooler (30C/86F). In winter, it is much cooler and can get as low as 10C (50F) during the day. In the evening, it can hit freezing. There are occasions when there is rain or even snow in the desert. If weather conditions require, we may need to modify the itinerary or the camp location for your comfort and safety.
Aqaba is very hot when the air is still, but there is usually a breeze. Rain is unusual but possible.
The Dead Sea air temperatures vary from around 14C (57F) in winter up to 37C (98F) in summer. The water temperature doesn’t drop below 20C (68F). As with many countries in the world, seasons can go on longer than usual so it is advisable to always check the weather of the country you are travelling to a week or two before your trip so you can pack appropriately.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately a 35-minute drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel for any flight landing on arrival day. Speak to your sales representative before departure to book. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
If you book post-tour accommodation with Exodus in Madaba, we can arrange free drop-off as a stop on the group transfer. If arranging a post tour stay in Amman, a private transfer at additional cost will be needed, either from the Dead Sea or Amman airport. On departure, a transfer from Madaba or Amman to the airport would also be at extra cost.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Amman
Location end: Dead Sea
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Overnight bag for one-night stay in Wadi Rum
- Lightweight walking boots/shoes for Petra
- Sports bottle with wide top (not plastic) for water refills from large containers
- Sunhat
- Sunscreen
- Swimwear for the Red and Dead seas
- Insect repellent for the night at the desert camp
- Torch (flashlight) for desert camp
- Appropriate footwear for the Dead Sea as parts are rocky underfoot
You will encounter a range of temperatures on these trips; in spring and autumn the days are generally quite hot (very hot in July and August), the nights are cool in the desert. Light cotton clothing is suitable for daytime use, but you may need a sweater, and for departures from the end of September onwards you should also bring a warm jacket.
Jordan is a Muslim country and so modest dress is required when visiting holy sites and rural areas (ie legs, shoulders and upper arms to be covered). In the larger cities and more popular destinations this is not necessary.
Please try to bring no more than one main piece of luggage per person. On occasion luggage may be transported separately to the vehicle the group travels in.
Water included
Plastic bottles are a big issue in many countries where recycling isn’t yet widely available; they often end up in landfill or get burned. Both processes are harmful to the environment and we would like to reduce our impact here. For your trip, we provide an alternative to single-use plastic bottles to reduce the plastic used. This means that safe drinking water will be available throughout; all you need to do is bring a bottle to refill along the way. Please add this to your packing list.
Practical Information
Passport
Jordan passport information
It is essential that we have your full passport details at least two weeks before the start of your trip (or at the time of booking for late bookings). This is required for the free visa (see below for eligibility details) and additionally, has to be supplied in advance to the tourism police, hotels and sights we’ll be visiting. If we are not provided with accurate passport information in advance, problems may be encountered during the trip and you may incur extra costs.
Visa
Jordan
Visas are required by most nationalities and can be obtained at the border or Amman airport.
We will arrange a free visa (usually 40 Jordanian dinars) for travellers booking a tour and any pre-tour arrangements through us, provided we receive full passport and flight details at least two weeks before arrival.
You will need to pay for the visa if we do not have these details two weeks before arrival or you are making your own pre-tour arrangements (ie extra nights before the tour that are not booked through Exodus).
Our airport representative will meet and assist you with obtaining the free visa on arrival in Jordan at Customs & Immigration. They will be carrying an Exodus sign.
Vaccinations and Health
Jordan
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and typhoid. Please confirm all requirements with your doctor or travel clinic.
Local Time
Jordan's time zone: Asia/Amman (UTC +03:00)
Electricity
Jordan's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard), D (three round pins), F (two round pins), G (three rectangular pins, UK standard), and J (three round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Jordan's currency: Jordanian dinar (JOD)
ATM Availability
You can choose to either change your money in advance or on arrival at Amman airport. Here you will find both ATMs and exchange desks.
You’ll find ATMs in the major towns and cities, including Madaba, Petra, Aqaba and Amman. However, not all ATMs will take every card type, so please do not rely just on your cards and bring some cash to change if possible.
Your leader will be able to advise you on changing money and ATMs.
Larger shops in the cities may take credit cards, but do not rely on this. We suggest taking some money in cash (US dollars, British pounds or euros) with a mix of denominations.
Changing travellers cheques in Jordan can be quite difficult as very few places now accept these. If you do wish to take them, we advise using those issued by either Thomas Cook or American Express, as you may find others even more difficult to change. Small denomination cash dollars are useful for times when you want to change a small amount of money outside the major towns or cities.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
Optional excursions
There are various excursions possible on this trip – the leader will provide more details on arrival. Please note that all prices are subject to change.
- Petra by Night: 17 dinars per person (US$24). Follow the trail from the Siq to the Treasury in candlelight, where you are offered tea and traditional music by the local Bedouins. Please note, this is not possible every evening and it can get crowded at times. It is a low-key activity, so it is best not to go with any expectations.
- New Petra by Night: 30 dinars per person (US$43). From 1 April 2025, this activity will also feature 3D and hologram technology. Available Sunday to Thursday.
- Turkish bath in Petra: 22 dinars per person (US$31)
- Little Petra: A smaller but still impressive version of the main Petra site. 13 dinars per person (US$19) for guided tour and transport. This is an option on the morning we travel to Aqaba. If the whole group does this option, then we check out of the hotel beforehand.
- Camel rides in Wadi Rum: Camel rides provided by the local Bedouin will be possible and scheduled according to the group preferences. A trek in the desert is approximately 1hr 20min and costs 20 dinars per person (US$28).
- Amman entry fees: The main sites are included in our city tour at the beginning of the trip. However, if you arrive a day early you may like to visit the King Abdullah Mosque. The entrance is 2 dinars (US$3).
Tipping
On all Exodus Premium Adventures tipping for any local support staff is included and will normally be taken care of via your tour leader (or in some cases through our local agent). So need no for any tipping kitty contributions, or to make your own tips during the trip.
Our ‘included tips’ will normally cover drivers, local specialist guides, certain hotel staff, and serving staff for included meals. Amounts will be in line with the local standard. Of course, if you wish to make a further tip for some extra special service you may do so.
Tips for the Tour Leader are not included and most clients will wish to tip the leader. As a guide we suggest US$55 per person for this trip. Most groups prefer to present the money to the leader at the end of the trip in an envelope. The amount is at your discretion and our suggested amount is to be used as a guideline only.
Sustainability and Impact
As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.
We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.
This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony though practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.
Important Information
Water safety
This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.
This trip goes near an area deemed unsafe to visit by the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, whose advice we follow when operating our trips. While our itinerary doesn’t go to these areas, you should familiarise yourself with your local government’s advice if you are planning any pre- or post-trip travel. Any independent travel to areas currently against your local government advice is entirely at your own risk and unlikely to be covered by your travel insurance.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call us and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Seatbelts
All vehicles used by us should be equipped with working seatbelts, except where approved by us based on the vehicle type or journey. Wherever seatbelts are available, we require our customers to use them for their own safety, even where it may not be a legal requirement.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.