Introduction to Jordan

(5 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Amman & Jerash, King’s Highway, Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea

On this private Jordan tour, enjoy an introduction to the cultural and scenic highlights with your own private guide and driver.

Begin in Amman, the modern capital of Jordan. During flexible private touring in the city, visit the hilltop Citadel to see ancient Roman ruins, the eighth-century Umayyad Palace complex and the archaeological museum. Browse the Jordan River Designs and Turquoise Mountain showrooms, and visit other favorite shops selling high-quality, handmade Jordanian crafts. Also visit the Jordan Museum, lively souks, sweets shops, and other cultural and culinary highlights of the city according to your interests.

Alternatively, take a private excursion into the verdant hills of northern Jordan to tour Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Middle East. See highlights such as Hadrian's Arch, the Oval Plaza, the Hippodrome, the theater and the Cardo, a colonnaded stone street once lined with shops. If desired, Artisans of Leisure can arrange a homemade lunch of traditional Jordanian dishes prepared by local women.

Next, travel along the King's Highway, a historic route that passes through many fascinating cultural and natural attractions. During private touring en route, visit Mount Nebo and the Memorial Church of Moses to see exquisite Byzantine mosaics and panoramic views stretching down to the Dead Sea. If desired, also visit local mosaic workshops. Next, stop in Madaba to see the fascinating sixth-century mosaic map of the Holy Land, as well as the mosaics in the Madaba Archaeological Park. Continue through Wadi Mujib, a dramatic desert canyon, and stop at impressive Kerak Castle, a 12th-century Crusader fortress perched on a hill.

Continue to Petra, an awe-inspiring archaeological complex carved into beautiful red sandstone mountains in the desert. During private touring of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, walk (or take a golf cart) through the atmospheric Siq (gorge), and see the iconic Treasury. Explore the impressive Royal Tombs and learn about the history, beliefs and architecture of the Nabataeans, the ancient people who created Petra. If desired, venture to other parts of Petra, such as the Monastery or the High Place of Sacrifice, for unforgettable views over the region. Also visit Little Petra, another desert canyon with Nabataean ruins. In the evening, perhaps opt for a memorable Petra by Night experience, including the opportunity to see the Siq and Treasury illuminated by hundreds of candles. 

Next, take an excursion to Wadi Rum, a spectacular landscape of monumental stone mountains, red sand dunes, rock bridges and petroglyphs. During a private four-wheel drive tour, see highlights of this otherworldly, UNESCO-inscribed region—also known as the Valley of the Moon—that has served as locations for Lawrence of Arabia, The Martian and other films.

En route to the Dead Sea, stop for a short hike or to take in breathtaking views over the rocky hills and deep canyons of the Dana Biosphere Reserve, a diverse landscape that's home to a wide range of plants and animals.

Continue to a resort overlooking the beautiful and mysterious Dead Sea. During your stay, enjoy the resort's lush grounds and many facilities, including an extensive spa, multiple swimming pools and a private beach that provides access to the Dead Sea, where you can float in mineral-rich water famous for its buoyancy and therapeutic qualities.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1 Arrive Amman VIP airport assistance. Private arrival transfer to hotel for 1 night. Introductory city tour or excursion to Jerash Day 2 Amman – King’s Highway – Petra Private transfer to hotel for 2 nights with flexible touring en route Day 3 Petra Full-day private tour of Petra Day 4 Petra – Wadi Rum – Dead Sea Morning private excursion to Wadi Rum en route to resort for 1 night. Afternoon at leisure Day 5 Depart Amman Private transfer to airport

Hotels

Amman: The St. Regis Amman, The Ritz-Carlton Amman or Four Seasons Amman Petra: Movenpick Resort Petra or Petra Marriott Hotel Dead Sea: Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea

Cost

$5,980 Per person (double occupancy)