Adventures with Purpose: Jordan

Suggested Itinerary

16 Days From £4,995

Overview

Steeped in human history and strategically placed at the heart of Middle Eastern trade and politics since the dawn of civilisation, Jordan has been witness to some of the most pivotal moments in the region’s historical and cultural development. Delve beneath the surface and you will discover a fascinating wealth of tradition and trade in a land that can trace its cultural origins back to the earliest human settlements.

This remarkable journey opens up a world all but lost to the ...

Experience warm hospitality and a delicious meal in the communal kitchen of the Iraq Al Amir Women Society Centre
Support locally-run initiatives which have been established to promote & empower local artisans and tradesmen
Enjoy a cup of Arabic coffee with your Bedouin guide as he gives you an insight into the history and culture of his community
Stay in the award-winning Feynan Eco Lodge, which supports the surrounding community and environment
Escape the crowds and hike Petra's remote landscapes, including part of the Jordan Trail
Discover impressive desert castles, beautiful Roman mosaics and Ottoman mansions

Suggested Itinerary

This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.

EXPAND ALL ITINERARY DAYS

COLLAPSE ALL ITINERARY DAYS

DAY 1: ARRIVE AMMAN

On arrival into Amman you will be greeted by your Wild Frontiers representative and transferred directly to your hotel for check in.

La Locanda Boutique Hotel

DAY 2: AMMAN

Established in 2001 to generate income by the women of a community near Amman, the Iraq Al Amir Women Society Centre offers handicraft workshops such as weaving, pottery, soap making and paper making. It also runs a bed and breakfast and a communal kitchen. Your visit will provide a unique opportunity to meet the women and discover for yourself the work they do here, as well as learn more about the various handmade products. Afterwards, a homemade meal from the kitchen will provide a delicious introduction to Jordanian cuisine. This afternoon is then free to explore at leisure and discover some of the capital's sites.

La Locanda Boutique Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 3: AMMAN - DESERT CASTLES - AZRAQ

This morning head out of the capital towards the desert castles located to the east of Amman including Qasr Kharanah, one of the best-preserved of the Umayyad castles and Qasr Amra, renowned for its 8th century frescoes. Continue on to Azraq, a unique wetland oasis inhabited since ancient times. Located in the heart of the semi-arid Jordanian eastern desert, Azraq is a seasonally flooded marshland, where a wide variety of migrating, breeding and wintering birds stop during their migration between Asia and Africa.

Azraq Lodge

Breakfast

DAY 4: AZRAQ

Hop on a bike today and set off from Azraq Lodge to a Bedouin tent, where a local Bedouin guide will provide an introduction to the history of the Bedouin community over a cup of traditional Arabic coffee. Learn about daily activities, such as herding sheep and milking goats, and discover how to make laban makheed, a sour buttermilk created using a traditional leather bag. Then enjoy a delicious Bedouin lunch. The encounter is the creation of the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), conceived to not only bridge the gap between our cultures, but also to bring career opportunities and sustainable tourism to the Azraq Wetland Reserve itself.

Azraq Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 5: AZRAQ – UMM EL-JIMAL - UMM QAIS

Drive from Azraq to Umm Qais today, visiting the archaeological research, cultural heritage and community development partnership project at Umm el-Jimal along the way. On arrival in Umm Qais, you will be introduced to some of the local trades. Weaving with banana leaves, palm leaves and straw is a tradition that spans the generations and is still alive today in Umm Qais. A chance to sit and learn with the local artists provides an ideal opportunity to discover the intricate skills needed to weave even a simple design, and provide some support to this less-visited village.

Beit Al Baraka

Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 6: UMM QAIS - AJLOUN

Starting with a visit to Yousef’s Honey Farm, located in the village, you’ll have the chance to try your hand at beekeeping this morning. Yousef is a former soldier, who has spent the last 15 years keeping bees and his obvious passion for his craft is infectious. From here you continue on a tour of ancient Umm Qais, a fascinating setting that is home to numerous theatres and temples, a colonnaded street and an aqueduct. After enjoying a local lunch, you’ll set off for Ajloun.

Al Asef House

Breakfast

DAY 7: AJLOUN

Enjoy a wonderful day of hiking today, as you explore the surrounding valleys and ridges. Passing local villages and orchards and savouring a picnic lunch along the way, there are some wonderful panoramic views to enjoy into neighbouring West Bank and Syria. There are a selection of hard or softer trails to choose from, so just discuss your preferences with your hosts and make the most of discovering this captivating and little-visited corner of Jordan.

Al Asef House

Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 8: AJLOUN

Enjoying another wonderful RSCN activity today, you’ll visit an organic farm to meet the farmers and learn more about the process of organic farming and its benefits. Taking part in some of the daily activities, you may get a chance to feed the goats or perhaps try your hand at milking or harvesting crops. You will then meet a local chef, who will show you the ingredients to collect from the farm for a tasty lunch. This afternoon then introduces you to the art of calligraphy, as you delve into the beauty of the Arabic language under the expert tutelage of a local artist.

Al Asef House

Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 9: AJLOUN – SALT – DANA

Leaving the hills and orchards of Ajloun behind, you travel next to the pleasant Ottoman town of Salt. Explore its historic and narrow winding streets lined with the houses of Ottoman merchants, the most beautiful of which is Abu Jaber’s mansion, whose fine frescoed ceilings can trace their origins back to the late 19th/early 20th centuries. You will also have time to visit Salt’s Handicrafts Training Centre, which is a vocational school for young artisans who receive expert instruction in weaving and ceramics. After a chance to visit its shop, which helps to fund the project, you’ll then continue your journey to the Dana Nature Reserve. Around a three hour journey, Dana was the first Nature Reserve in Jordan and can boast an area of spectacular wadis and views.

Dana Guesthouse

Breakfast

DAY 10: DANA - FEYNAN

Set deep in the mountains of the Dana Reserve, the Feynan Ecolodge has been described as one of the best ecolodges anywhere in the world. Entirely solar-powered, with natural ventilation and water supplied from a local spring, it sits in the heart of perfect hiking country. An array of trails, along with a picnic lunch, provide the ideal ingredients for a day of exploration and scenic majesty. Home to local Bedouin, the surrounding countryside celebrates more than 200 species of birds and, in season, a profusion of wild flowers.

Feynan Eco Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 11: IN AND AROUND FEYNAN

Enjoy a free day to relax or make the most of the wonderful activities made available by the eco-lodge.

Feynan Eco Lodge

Breakfast

DAY 12: JORDAN TRAIL HIKE (FEYNAN – GHBOUR WHEDAT)

An early start sees you being transferred by road to the trailhead of today's challenging hike. Leaving the stony ‘hamada' desert behind, you begin your steep ascent across rocks and small boulders which eventually leads you up into the mountains through a narrow and dramatic valley, offering stunning views eastwards towards the Wadi Araba Desert, well worth the climb! From here you can enjoy the descent into the dry river valley which leads you through dry wadis and indistinct cols. Be sure to look out for the elusive ibex along the way. Wadi floor is soon replaced by pale sandstone mountains as you make your way ever closer to Petra's dramatic escarpment location. This evening you can enjoy a sheltered wild camping spot, offering some of the best night skies in the world.

Wild Camping

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 13: JORDAN TRAIL HIKE (GHBOUR WHEDAT - LITTLE PETRA)

Today we leave the wilderness of the desert ravines and walk through a gentler terrain of open sandstone hills, interspersed with patches of agricultural land tended by the Bedouin. The rocks here have eroded into distinctive clusters of white domes, especially as you get close to Beida, or Little Petra, an outlying suburb of the ancient city. You’ll get a chance to wander round the carved temples and facades of Little Petra in the afternoon before a short walk to a permanent camp in a secluded valley. The campsite has a generator providing enough electricity for you to enjoy a hot shower, and to recharge your camera batteries for tomorrow’s walk into Petra.

Seven Wonders Bedouin Camp

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 14: JORDAN TRAIL HIKE (LITTLE PETRA - PETRA)

Today’s hike brings you into Petra via a spectacular but little-known Bedouin trail through the mountains. You’ll begin with a couple of hours’ walk across open farmland before the path begins to contour around the mountain, following natural ledges of pale sandstone. Huge views begin to open up across the Great Rift Valley to the west. After another hour the trail descends towards Petra and opens onto one of the city’s most impressive sights: the immense rock-cut façade of ad Deir, the Monastery. You can rest and drink tea here, and explore the ruins, before following the stone steps of a Nabataean processional way down into the heart of Petra. After wandering through the temples and tombs you will leave through another secret slot canyon (‘the Dark Siq’) before turning back towards Petra and following the main siq for the classic entry into the city. This brings you out at Petra’s most famous monument, the Treasury. This option offers a long, wonderful day’s hiking around Petra, and means you can experience the two greatest approaches to the city in a single day. Finally, in the last light, we leave Petra and walk back down the siq towards the main gate of Petra.

Petra Moon Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 15: PETRA – UMM AL RASAS - AMMAN

This morning will be free to explore further independently or relax at your hotel after your exciting hike. Your driver will then pick you up and take you back to Amman, stopping en route to view the fabulous and much lesser-known mosaics at Umm Al Rasas. The site was originally a Roman garrison town but grew very wealthy in the Byzantine period, from when the finest of these mosaics date.

La Locanda Boutique Hotel

Breakfast

DAY 16: DEPART AMMAN

This morning your driver will pick you up from the hotel and transfer you to Amman airport in time for your onward flight.

Breakfast

SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION

Dana Guesthouse, Dana Nature Reserve

Our rating: Superior | Property style: Guesthouse

Perched on the edge of Wadi Dana, this beautifully styled guesthouse offers breath-taking views of the reserve, comfortable accommodation, traditional Arabic food, and friendly service. The stone building contains nine comfortably furnished bedrooms, most with private terraces. Noted for its local food and warm welcome, the guesthouse actively helps to support the Nature Reserve. A Wild Jordan guesthouse, the building was originally built to house researchers, adding character and authenticity to your stay, however this does mean most rooms do not have private bathroom facilities. There is a restaurant at Dana Guesthouse serving home-made traditional local meals.

Feynan Eco Lodge, Feynan

Our rating: Premium | Property style: Lodge

In the middle of the mountainous, desert landscape of Wadi Feynan and the Dana Biosphere Reserve lies the Feynan Eco Lodge. Lit by candlelight with serene courtyards and terraces on which to relax and watch the sunset this is one of the most unique eco-experiences in Jordan. Set up by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature in partnership with Eco Hotels this 26 roomed lodge is solar powered and offers economic opportunities for the local inhabitants as well as raises funds to protect the local environment. The rooms all have private balconies and views over Wadi Feynan and the restaurant provides three meals a day using local herbs, preserves, homemade jams and teas from the Dana Biosphere.

Petra Moon Hotel, Petra

Our rating: Superior | Property style: Hotel

Less than a hundred metres from the entrance gates of Petra, is the simple Petra Moon Hotel with fifty rooms spread over five floors. The soundproofed rooms are spacious and classically-styled, each with their own balcony, and include all standard four-star amenities. From the rooftop terrace guests can enjoy views of the surrounding mountain ranges comprising the eastern side of the Arabah valley. Facilities on the garden rooftop terrace include a seasonal outdoor pool, along with a restaurant serving Jordanian food.

Al Asef House, Ajloun Nature Reserve

Our rating: Simple | Property style: Traditional Accommodation

The oldest house in the Ajloun Valley and once a landmark for traders, the Al Asef house is 180 years old and has four en suite rooms. Fully renovated, the rooms are simple and traditional with views of the garden and mountains. The small dining room serves traditional food and there is the option of eating in the original cave dining room as well as sitting out on the roof top cafe. Guests can walk in the beautiful valley, stroll in the gardens or maybe help with the fruit and olive picking in the nearby orchards.

Wild Camping, Petra

Our rating: Simple | Property style: Wild Camp

There's nothing quite like wild camping in the middle of the desert, where the red rocky landscape is set on fire by the sunsets, only to then be soothed by the cool blanket of the glimmering night sky. Your camp will be set up by an expert team who will provide all your necessary camping equipment, including tents, thin mattresses and pillows, as well as some delicious freshly-cooked meals by the fire. We recommend guests bring their own sleeping bag.

La Locanda Boutique Hotel, Amman

Our rating: Premium | Property style: Boutique Hotel

La Locanda Boutique Hotel is Jordan's first themed boutique hotel. Nestling in Jebel Al Weibdeh, the cultural heart of Amman, La Locanda is the perfect place to unwind. Here you’ll find a warm, friendly welcome, cozy music-themed rooms. Enjoy the unique architecture of the surrounding area, which reflects the cultural and historical identity of Amman. First converted into a hotel in the 1970s, the property is housed in one of the oldest buildings in the area, and more recent renovations made the conscious decision to maintain the architectural character of the building. It is the perfect mix of urban and traditional and a great base from which to explore the capital.

Beit Al Baraka, Umm Qais

Our rating: Superior | Property style: Guesthouse

This lovely guesthouse offers enviable views of Golan Heights with personable service and locally sourced food. Gain an insight into village life through wonderful activities such as home cooking classes, harvesting olives (seasonal) and basket weaving workshops. For the more active, there are hiking and cycling excursions. The guesthouse and activities have been set up by Baraka Destinations, an initiative that brings sustainable tourism to this remote and less-frequented village. Most of the ingredients served at the guesthouse are locally sourced, creating a delicious, fresh menu of Middle Eastern delicacies. The bedrooms are simply designed using hand crafted beds and rugs and feature shared bathroom facilities. After exploring the ancient site of Gadara, only a short walk away, grab a book in the lounge area and read by the fireplace or watch the sunset over the mountains from the rooftop terrace.

Azraq Lodge, Azraq Wetland Reserve

Our rating: Superior | Property style: Hotel

Originally a British military hospital, Azraq Lodge is a now a comfortable lodge and is the best accommodation option when visiting Azraq Wetland Reserve. The 16 rooms are simply decorated in a 1940s style, and feature private balconies, air conditioning and en suite bathrooms. Guests can enjoy local dishes which are served in the restaurant. This is a clean and comfortable option without the frills but a good base from which to explore this unique and less-visited area.

Seven Wonders Bedouin Camp, Petra

Our rating: Superior | Property style: Tented Camp

The family-run Seven Wonders Bedouin Camp offers comfortable accommodation in a priceless location. The fixed Bedouin tents sit in the sheltered rock valley of Little Petra, offering the unique privilege of experiencing the warmth of Bedouin hospitality in one of the most historically significant and physically beautiful locations in the world. Guests are greeted by their local hosts, and can enjoy a cosy night's sleep in their private fixed tent, which offers small but comfortable real beds. Washing and toilet facilities are shared but extremely adequate, housed in a separate and well-maintained building. The communal area welcomes you with an open fire and delicious home-cooked food, and guests can make the most of the magnificent night skies as they settle in for the evening.

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Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.

GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED

16 days from £4,995

MEALS

As specified in the itinerary, sampling some of the country's finest cuisine.

TRANSPORT

Private air-conditioned vehicles with experienced, dedicated drivers.

ENTRANCE FEES

Tours and admission fees, including tickets specified in the itinerary.

EXPERT TEAM

Licensed English-speaking guides and a support team available 24/7.

ACCOMMODATION

As specified in the itinerary, using some of our favourite local properties.

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

Flexible booking conditions regarding transfers and cancellations

This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.

Positive Impact of this Trip

Ten trees are planted per passenger on this trip

Supports Wild Frontiers Foundation community projects

A contribution to renewable energy projects

WHEN TO GO

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EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES

We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.

HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION

Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.

24-HOUR SUPPORT

Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.

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Meet the expert, Dan

Dan is our Middle East expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.

Speak to Daniel by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258

Read Daniel's Bio

The Backdoor trail to Petra is the best way to see the ancient city. It's a great hike and if you start early, you'll end up with parts of Petra almost to yourself as most tourists come in via the normal Siq route.

Adventures with Purpose: Jordan

Suggested Itinerary

Overview

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS