A Week in Jordan

Name: A Week in Jordan
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4.6 (303 reviews)

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9 Days from

CAD 2,775

Incl. taxes Excl. flights

4.6/5 from

Culture

Ways to Travel :

Guided Group, Private Group Adventures

Activity :

Culture

Activity Levels :

2 out of 7 - Leisurely / Moderate

Group Size :

4 - 20

Ages :

16+

Trip Code :

AXW

Visit the stunning highlights of Jordan

Jordan is an ideal destination for a one-week adventure. Bursting with things to see and do, this trip includes the best of what this magnificent country has to offer, visiting all the major sites of interest. We will have two full days to explore Petra and take a guided visit around Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Middle East. We’ll float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea and snorkel (optional) over the beautiful coral reefs of the Red Sea. We will also experience the fabulous desert scenery at Wadi Rum, taking a four-wheel-drive vehicle into the more remote regions, and camp out like the Bedouin.

Highlights

Discover the secrets of Petra with two full days in the Red Rose City
Experience Bedouin life at a desert camp in Wadi Rum
Stroll through the ancient Roman streets of Jerash
Float in the tranquil Dead Sea
Visit Mount Nebo, said to be the burial site of Moses

Key Information

Seven nights four to five-star hotels and comfortable hotels, one night private desert camp
Travel by air-conditioned bus and four-wheel drive in Wadi Rum
Group normally four to 20 plus leader. Minimum age: 16

Countries visited: Jordan

What's Included

All breakfasts and two dinners
All accommodation (see accommodation section)
All transport and listed activities
Tour leader throughout
Arrival and departure transfers

What's Not Included

Travel insurance
Single accommodation (available on request)
Visas or vaccinations

People, Places & Planet

We work hard to create trips which improve life for the people and places we visit, and look after the planet we explore. Find out more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here, and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.

In Jordan we are very proud to work with a local partner who received the Travelife Partner award in July 2021. Travelife is a certification system dedicated to achieving sustainable practices in the global tourism industry. In order to receive the award our Jordanian partner had to comply with over 100 criteria related to Corporate Social Responsibility. The Travelife standard is formally recognised for full compliance with the UN Sustainable Tourism Criteria.

Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:

People

How this trip helps improve life for local communities.

The use of a local guide means our customers will be well informed about local traditions, and cultural and social sensitivities.
This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally-owned hotels and restaurants, the emphasis on eating locally produced food and support of other local enterprise.
The hotels we stay in are dedicated to hiring local staff, this helps to benefit the surrounding community by providing employment opportunities and income alternatives where they may be otherwise hard to come by.
This trip stays one night in Wadi Rum desert at the Exodus Private camp which is owned and managed by a local Bedouin family. This not only provides a source of income for the family but is a wonderful opportunity for our guests to interact with local people and share aspects of their traditions.
In Wadi Rum we also do a jeep safari which provides another source of income for local people.
This tour encourages guests to visit local cafes and restaurants and use markets to purchase traditional crafts.

Places

How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.

Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels.
By travelling in a small group, led by a local guide, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
On this trip we visit 8 national heritage sites and the entrance fees included generates income which is used for the upkeep and development of these important monuments and nature parks.
Our trips adhere to ABTA’s industry-leading animal welfare guidelines to ensure the best possible practices with regard to working animals and wildlife viewing. Our animal welfare policy can be found here.
In Petra we do not recommend that guests ride horses or mules as we are not convinced their treatment is in line with industry-leading animal welfare guidelines.
We work with our partners on the ground to proactively eliminate or reduce waste, for example eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles and instead providing refills for re-usable bottles.
It is standard practise in Jordan to distribute left-over restaurant food to people in need.
Where possible on this trip paper bags are used as an alternative to single-use plastics.

Planet

How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.

Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally-sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
The Exodus Private camp in Wadi Rum uses solar power.
This trip favours locally-owned and run accommodation.

Tips for sustainable travel on this trip

Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, we’d ask you to consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own re-usable water bottle on this trip; filtered water will be provided where tap water is not drinkable.
Cultural respect:
- Some Jordanians especially women and the elderly object to being photographed so please ask first.
- Jordanians are very proud of their country and can be offended if you take pictures of anything ‘negative’ or suggestive of poverty. Photography in military zones and strategic areas like public buildings is prohibited.
- Handshaking is only between members of the same sex.
- It's polite to use only your right hand when eating something without cutlery and when handing money and small objects to someone else.
- It is common practice to remove one’s shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home and you should tuck them under if sitting on the floor. It is respectful for women to cover their heads with a scarf when entering a mosque. Please note many mosques are not open for tourist visits.
- Generally men’s and women’s clothing should cover shoulders and be on or below the knee.
- During the holy month of Ramadan Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking during daylight hours. Even chewing gum is considered haram. (forbidden). Although foreigners are not expected to follow these practises it is respectful to be discrete and not eat, drink, or smoke in general public.
- Making the effort to fit in is invariably appreciated so being aware of these aspects of cultural respect will assist you during your travels in Jordan.

Itinerary

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.

Accommodation: Hotel Khan Khediwe or similar

This morning we drive north to Jerash, known as Gerasa in ancient times. This was one of the 10 wealthy, self-governing cities of the Decapolis during Roman times, and was famous throughout the Roman world for the luxury of its 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 a city tour, which takes in the Citadel, Roman amphitheatre and the old city.

Accommodation: Hotel Khan Khediwe or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is a long driving day down the King's Highway which takes us up and down huge wadis (valleys). There are several stops of interest en route, including Madaba, known as the city of the mosaics, Mount t Nebo, and the magnificent fortified town of Kerak. Further south we reach Petra – Jordan's premier historic site and one of the most outstanding ancient cities in the world.

Accommodation: Standard hotel – see accommodation section for more detail

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy two days exploring Petra. The so-called Red Rose City was hidden for centuries until the Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered it in 1812. It was founded by the Nabateans, an Arab tribe that arrived here in the sixth century BCE. Building at Petra began in the third century BCE and continued through the Roman period, financed by taxes levied on the desert caravans. 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 glow in the sunlight.

To enter Petra we must begin by walking down a narrow chasm, known as the Siq. Unveiled at the end is El Khazneh, the Treasury. This is just the first breathtaking sight of a remarkable day. Continuing to the city centre, we pass the houses and tombs of the rich citizens and the remarkable scale of the site begins to unveil itself. An optional walk can then be done up 750 steps to El Deir, the Monastery, with its superb facade topped by a huge urn.

On the second day, your guide will take you into the site for either a hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice or for free time to explore the city further. Only a few people attempt to visit 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.

Accommodation: Standard hotel – see accommodation section for more detail

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning there is the option to take a guided tour through Little Petra or you can relax at our hotel before we join the modern Desert Highway and make our way south to Wadi Rum. The purpose of Little Petra is not clear; however, archeologists believe it was probably a suburb of Petra where visiting traders on the Silk Road may have stayed.

Today we enter the Unesco World Heritage site of Wadi Rum, where dramatic sandstone mountains rise from the sandy desert floor. It was here that 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 private Exodus camp, our Bedouin hosts take us for an approximately two-hour 4x4 ride to explore some of the highlights of the protected area. We visit the highlights, have time to sample Bedouin tea, and then watch the sunset from the vantage point of a rock formation. From here we return to our camp where we enjoy Bedouin hospitality with a traditional dinner called zarb, which is cooked underground. After dinner, we learn about Bedouin culture and music through interacting with the family who run the camp.

Accommodation: Exodus Private camp (permanent Bedouin camp)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We wake in the dramatic desert scenery and then make our way on to Aqaba, Jordan's port and holiday resort, best known for having beautiful coral reefs. There is time to relax on a beach with transport and entrance included. You can add to the experience with optional snorkelling and lunch packages, which your leader will explain. Please note there is a cost for these extras. There are several good restaurants in Aqaba for our evening meal together.

Accommodation: La Costa Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Leaving the Red Sea behind, we head to the Dead Sea (approximately 4hr 30 min), which is one of the most fascinating places on earth and so called because its high salinity prevents most forms of aquatic life. There's plenty of free time to float in these waters and try the Dead Sea mud before cooling off in the swimming pool.

There's also the chance to visit Bethany Beyond the Jordan, said to be the site of Jesus Christ's baptism by John the Baptist, a moment marking the new era of Christianity. This is an optional trip that can be booked and paid for locally. It’s about a 15-minute drive from the Dead Sea hotel and the entire visit usually lasts 1hr 45min in total, including the driving to/from the hotel. Those who do not wish to visit the site will check into their hotel in the Dead Sea.

This evening there will be a group dinner to celebrate your time in Jordan and say your farewells.

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Dead Sea or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Breakfast marks our final meal, an excellent chance to reminisce about an adventure packed with excitement. To make your return journey home easier, there’s a free shared transfer back to the airport.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Essential Info

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).

A Travel Declaration form needs to be completed before travel and may be requested at check-in or on arrival in Jordan: https://www.gateway2jordan.gov.jo/form/

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.

Vaccination

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.

Eating and Drinking

All breakfasts, two dinners. The dinners are included at the Wadi Rum camp and the Dead Sea resort.

When not 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 (US$28) per person for 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 from the meat.

Alcohol is available in Jordan, but not widely. Many hotels do not sell alcohol but will often allow it to be brought in from elsewhere. It is best to plan ahead if you’ll want a drink, your tour leader will be able to tell you what’s possible and may be able to arrange a stop at a supermarket or liquor store (depending on location). In Petra, the unique Cave Bar in Petra Guesthouse is open to the public. A less expensive option is the bar in the Petra Palace Hotel which is also open to all.

Weather

Spring and autumn are very popular in 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 on average in summer is around 30C (86F), 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 (50C) 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 months. The water temperature however 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.

Is this trip for you?

Although this is a cultural trip, some days (such as those in Petra) can be long and tiring. To do the optional 850 steps up to the monastery or the climb 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 visit 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. While camping in Wadi Rum please be aware that although the campsite does have plumbed toilets and showers, it is basic and hot water may be limited. Our private Exodus camp is, however, often a highlight for guests. In very rare instances, where local conditions require, we may need to amend the order of the itinerary. We will ensure that all the elements of the itinerary are still included and site visits are of the same duration.

Please note, Ramadan is expected to run from 22 March-21 April 2023 and 10 March-10 April 2024.
One of the most important events in the Muslim calendar, it is a special time to visit Jordan. Each evening, the streets empty as people head home to break the fast, before refilling with an air of festivity upon their return.

Our leaders and drivers choose to work at this time, so we continue to run trips. Please be aware, however, that their energy levels may be slightly lower than normal. Tourist sites are still open, but may close earlier than usual. Restaurants may close during the day, but this is accounted for in meal arrangements for your group. Shops are typically open, though their hours may vary and they will definitely be closed during the breaking of the fast.

Your leader will know how timings need to be adapted to allow all the trip inclusions to run during Ramadan. To fully enjoy your holiday experience at this unique time of year, we suggest patience and flexibility.

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

Hotels and Camp

We spend two nights in a three-star hotel in Amman, three nights in a three-star hotel in Petra, one night in a four-star hotel in Aqaba and the final night in a five-star hotel at the Dead Sea. We also have one night in a desert camp in Wadi Rum. The private camp is for the sole use of the Exodus group and offers an unforgettable experience.

Throughout the tour we use hotels with en suite facilities and air conditioning and wifi. Some hotels have more facilities than others however it is always good to keep in mind that the star rating in Jordan is quite different to what you may expect at home. Sometimes we may use less centrally located hotels in the interests of comfort.

Hotels in Petra: Accommodation in Wadi Musa (the town adjacent to Petra archaeological site) is limited and demands on infrastructure are high; this can create problems with hot water and plumbing. In general, the hotels are of an older style and more basic in comparison to the rest of Jordan. Hotels we use include Petra Plaza, Petra Palace, Edom Hotel, Amra Palace, La Maison and Petra Icon Hotel among others. Some hotels are closer to the entrance to Petra than others, some have a pool, however most do not. When not within walking distance of the entrance to Petra, a transfer to/from the entrance is provided (typically a 10 minute drive). Hotel pools are often open during the daytime only when we’re likely to be exploring Petra, so there may not be free time during pool opening hours, some are only open in summer months.

If you are looking for a higher standard of accommodation, you may be interested in our Kingdoms of Jordan Premium Adventure which follows a similar itinerary.

At the Wadi Rum camp, there are traditional-style tents equipped with basic beds, sheets and blankets. There are plumbed toilets and basins, and simple shower facilities with (limited) hot water.
Single supplements are available for this trip however cannot be guaranteed at Wadi Rum. Please enquire at the time of booking for details and up-to-date prices.

Gavin & Moira Scott

Reviewed May 2023

Wonderful Experience

We saw all the major sights and were delighted with the holiday. Mikhled was an excellent guide. We stayed in good quality hotels and we travelled in a comfortable, air conditined bus (with a plentiful supply of water).

Most Inspirational Moment

First glimpse of The Treasury at Petra, having walked through the Siq. The expert knowledge of Mikhled explaining the various carvings added greatly to the experience. The sheer expanse and quiet of the desert at Wadi Rum was awesome.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mikhled was an excellent leader who was hugely knowledgeable and was able to communicate effectively without overloading us with facts and figures. He was happy to elabarte on any topic when requested. He was very organised, had a good sense of humour, and never got flustered. It was unfortunate that the late arrival on day 1 and early start on day 2 meant that our group didn't get a proper chance to introduce ourselves. With a large group of 20 this was a slight disadvantage which took a couple of days to resolve.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take Jordanian Dinars with you (rather than US Dollars). The Trip Notes need revison on this matter. The Petra Visitor Centre had a 3 D model of the Petra site which was very useful in giving an understanding of the physical relationship of the various sites and monuments. The Visitor Centre and Petra Museum should be mentioned in the Trip Notes. Travel light. There are plenty of opportunities to wash and dry clothes.

Suggestions

We had two meals out with Jordanian families. The first was excellent, with the dignified host and family talking about Jordanian family life and mingling with the group. We opted out of "Petra By Night" to have a "Mansaf" meal at the second family. While the food was enjoyable, the evening was not a success as the host "Jeff" dominated the evening and conversation in a manner which caused us to be distinctly uncomfortable. In retrospect we would much rather have exerienced "Petra By Night" and eaten Mansaf at a local restaurant. While we understand the need to use trusted hosts, the fact that "Jeff" was hosting our group of 16, as well as the Exodus Cycling group and an American couple (all in different rooms), did not seem to meet the objective of helping (a number of) local families. The Edom hotel in Wadi Musa was excellenty positioned but our room was not clean and had a view of a rubble and rubbish pile out of the window (photos available!). At Wadi Rum, the Trip Notes advised that we would "learn about Bedouin culure and music through interacting with the family who run the camp". This did not happen.

Sue Cunningham

Reviewed May 2023

Excellent

Excellent holiday

Most Inspirational Moment

The 2 days in Petra

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fantastic - very knowledgeable

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for quite a lot of easy climbing

Suggestions

Highly recommended

Michelle Hillman

Reviewed February 2023

Amazing experience!

I lost count of how many times my breath was taken away by this beautiful country. Yes, of course Petra is the crown jewel, the elegant beauty Queen that brings you to tears with her subtle grace. She tends to overshadow the rest of the country that is bursting with history and antiquities. Mikhled took advantage of every opportunity to educate us about his country and culture. His dry wit and generous nature made the entire experience. He went above and beyond to share his world with us. I feel safe in saying we all fell in love with the country. Jordan is the total package. Go. Pick a time and go. You will not regret it.

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking through the canyon, catching my first glimpse of the Treasury in Petra brought tears to my eyes. I grew up reading about it in National Geographic, watching documentaries, and finally I was there. In person. It is overwhelming to say the ver least.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mikhled was the perfect balance of presence & availability. He advised approximate costs of items, how to negotiate, sometimes did it for us. He included everyone in the group decisions, and he often provided snacks & treats when necessity stops were made. Mikhled shared his knowledge & love of his country and culture with us. Any minor issues were promptly addressed and resolved as best as possible. He has such a great sense of humor and truly the patience of a saint. Absolutely ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go! It is a vastly gorgeous country. Every day was a new surprise. The experience blew away any expectations I had. We are here for less than a blink of an eye. See as much of this world as you can, WHILE you can.

Suggestions

Exodus, please include details in the trip notes about “dry hotels”, camping in Wadi Rum, and shockingly abrasive wind. As I’m sure you are aware many western folks like a drink, especially while vacationing. I feel safe in assuming most people who travel are aware of cultural differences, but some of us make assumptions about availability in tourist areas. I’ve never heard of a “dry hotel” and wasn’t entirely sure what that meant. It would be beneficial to have that information beforehand. Secondly, the hotel in Petra. At first glance we were all excited only to have carpets that weren’t clean, beds that were more like bounce houses, shower doors falling off the hinges, and one morning without hot water. I travel for work and leisure so have a certain expectation when it comes to lodging. The Edom Hotel did not meet them. The physical location was great and I believe that if the hotel were to correct these housekeeping problems it would be infinitely better. Secondly, the “camping” in Wadi Rum. Having been on a previous tour that included desert “camping” I had an idea of what to expect. Most in our group had not and were quite frankly dreading it. There are various styles of camping, from the most base level of “roughing it” to “glamping” with all the amenities & modern day comforts. More detailed information would have prevented many from unnecessary worry. The “glamping” in Wadi Rum was absolutely lovely. The people, location, food, and accommodations were warm and inviting. I am NOT an outdoorsy camper. That was my kind of camping! Lastly, the wind at Mount Nebo and Karak were shocking to say the least. No one has any control over Mother Nature. However, informing travelers of the climate and extraordinary winds would be helpful in preparing and packing. There were a few times I was concerned about losing my footing due to the 40mph+ winds. Again, no one has any control over that it is simply providing unsuspecting travelers of the possibility of it. I believe Exodus can do better with providing detailed information to travelers and addressing housekeeping concerns with hotels to ensure happier guests. All that being said, it was an amazing experience and I will sing the praises of Jordan to any and all willing to listen. My life has been enriched with the journey through this remarkable country.

Julia Tresidder

Reviewed February 2023

Tremendous February trip 2023

First time with Exodus – they get it right – take all the hard work out of researching the how where when and then just sit back and take you on an adventure filled 8 nights. Perfect trip and overview of Jordan, taking in all essentials in a small group with small coach facilities but plenty of room. Mikheld was an excellent guide and everywhere we stayed he knew everyone and made sure we had all that we needed if anything was not quite right for some of the group. Petra was outstanding and the hotel was SO close it made up for its limited housekeeping side. All in all I would recommend this journey and Exodus in general.

Most Inspirational Moment

`entering the area by the Treasury having walked along the Siq. the place just kept giving and two days there are essential in order to take it all in and walk the walk everywhere. excellent

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mikheld is a very gentle soul who in true jordanian style wants all of the group to have a great experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

None. Go with an open mind and a mixture of travel wear just as you would for any other trip - the Wadi Rum experience was fantastic but take an extra little bag with your swim stuff for the next day and leave it on the coach overnight..then your packing is much easier.

Suggestions

Not really. I will be back!

Lesley de Quartel

Reviewed January 2023

A real gem!

Who knew Jordan had so much to offer! The trip notes gave a good overview of what we would do, but the reality far exceeded our expectations. Whilst everyone expected the Treasury to wow us, the week held further surprises every day for us to discover. From the moment we stepped out of the bus on our first day, until we said our farewells, we were astonished by the fabulous history, culture, food and people that make up Jordan. The accommodation was clean and comfortable with good breakfast choices. The week was a great mix of diverse activities – culminating in a relaxing day at the Dead Sea. We thoroughly enjoyed our week in Jordan.

Most Inspirational Moment

For me there were two: Discovering the vast area of Petra beyond the Treasury was sensational. We drank tea at the Place of High Sacrifice and took a lesser-trodden route back – the scenery was simply stunning! Wadi Rum was amazing – an overnight in a tent in the desert is an experience not to be missed – the evening meal was delicious!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our guide Mikhled, was a real ambassador for his homeland. Demonstrating he loved his job, he shared his passion for Jordan with the group. He was professional, caring and at all times determined that our holiday would be the best he could organise. His choice of restaurants and lunches was a feast for the palette and gave a great introduction into Jordanian cuisine. The cooking class he organised allowed us to make some of the dishes ourselves (the recipes were sent to the group to allow us to try at home). Mikhled was at all times courteous, smiling and able to keep the group amused with his dry sense of humor. When difficulties arose, he was able to support and help to find a solution. Thank you Mikhled for making our week such a special experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The trip gives a lot but also expects a lot from each group member. It is vital that each person takes responsibility for themselves, their belongings and their timekeeping. It is important not to overestimate your fitness or underestimate the physical demands necessary in such a trip. There are many vista rewards for walking and climbing the age old routes but good footwear is an absolute must. The temperature range is quite diverse (from 8-20 degrees during our week) depending on which location is being visited. Make sure you have layers, warm clothes and a hat as well as swimming gear. For the Red and Dead sea we took water shoes which protected our feet from coral and sharp rocks. A lunch pack is available in Petra – this is a great option as you can choose your stop based on where you are rather than where food is available for purchase. Take a small backpack as you will need to carry the lunch pack. Not all ATM’s work with all UK bank passes so it’s a good idea to get a few Jordanian Dinars before leaving or at the airport to make sure you have money as necessary. There are lots of opportunities for shopping and cash is sometimes preferable. We used about 350 dinars per person during the week.

Suggestions

This is a once in a lifetime trip – make sure you take advantage of everything on offer and approach each day with an open mind (especially the additional activities cooking class, meal with a family, Little Petra, camel ride and Turkish baths). You will be rewarded with a glorious week in the absolute gem that is Jordan!

Michael Downey

Reviewed December 2022

The Best Trip

Where to begin with all the superlatives of this trip……..from all the details that Exodus takes care of from the moment you step off the plane until the moment you step back on. They’ve thought of it all!! From authentic experiences, the places you visit, and people you meet, it cannot be beat. Each spot we visited was the perfect amount of time to spend at it with plenty of time to explore. If you go on this trip and are lucky to have Amer as your guide, it only enhances an already fantastic experience. His knowledge, passion, personality and fun-loving nature made this a trip I will never forget!

Most Inspirational Moment

Our guide Amer's passion for his country had my attention and was inspiring the entire week

Thoughts on Group Leader

There are not enough good things to say about Amer. He is an asset to his country of Jordan and to Exodus

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for the trip of a lifetime. This is a magical place to visit.

Fang Chen

Reviewed December 2022

A must do

It was a good trip, I enjoyed most of them. and It was packed with all activities, sightseeing, hiking, I have met very nice people on the trip. Few comments below: 1. We know Jordan is a tipping country, but £50 per person for a 20 people group seems a lot, we still had to pay for the most evening meals at our own cost and some trips are not on the itinerary that the tour guide has made sufficient profit from. We can’t see the tips that been well spent. 2. Some hotels were the bad points to let you down. The hotel room in Petra was very tired, needs serious updating but the location is very good next to the entrance of Petra. The last stop hotel “Holiday Inn” in dead sea was the worst 5 star hotel I have ever been, flies everywhere, wherever you went you encountered enormous amount flies, you could see the flies landing on the food, drinks, people, basically we were surrounded by hundreds, thousands flies, the buffet restaurant was full of flies everywhere, we had to use tissues to cover our food, most our group got very ill after returning to UK, we reckon the food in Holiday inn been infested by the flies, I also found ants in my room and bad smell in the garden. I suggest Exodus to reconsider to choose this hotel for the last stop, it totally ruined the “Holiday Inn” reputation, unless they have made the big improvement to justify their hygiene levels otherwise it will spoil the whole trip. In general, it is a must do but needs a few improvements. Overall I am general satisfied with the planning and organisations.

Most Inspirational Moment

2 full day Petra stay and desert stay.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Get to the airport at least 3 hours before to prepare the manually check in and long queue if you take flight with Royal Jordanian.

John Andrew

Reviewed November 2022

First hand education in the history and religions of the area we know as the Holy Land

An action packed entirely fascinating FULL week in Jordan, Palestine. Great company, great local food, excellent Group Lead/Tour Guide. Much much better than I expected. Felt very safe in Jordan too.

Most Inspirational Moment

The realisation that the history of the three significant Abrahamic religions surrounded me in this region. I went to see Petra, The Red and Dead Seas, I came away with so much more. Roman Jerash, Mount Nebu and Moses, the Baptism site of Jesus Christ no less, (optional extra, everyone took).

Thoughts on Group Leader

This is our third Exodus trip and as with the two previous it is the Group Leader who made it an exceptional experience. Amer, a warm, eloquent Jordanian with four relevant degrees brought the history, religions and politics of the region to life with clear chronological explanations drawn from the sites we visited. You felt totally confident in his care, bus broken down near Wadi Rum, replacement arrives within 20 mins - impressive for the middle of nowhere.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you're transiting through Heathrow be prepared for very lengthy delays, not quite as bad as Manchester, but pretty appalling still, with little care for passenger wellbeing. Try to drink plenty on the plane as there is nothing for the couple of hours it takes to transit from one terminal to the other via yet another security check.

Suggestions

There's a lot of litter beside the roads in the towns and cities, but the main sites are well cared for. This is a minor distraction compared to the quality of the experience. Everyone on our tour thoroughly enjoyed the trip, amazing country and outstanding guide from Exodus as usual.

Robyn Long

Reviewed November 2022

A must do trip!

This trip is an absolute must do. For me i knew i had high expectations of what was to come but this trip blew my expectations out of the water. Jordan was an absolutely beautiful country with so much to offer.

Most Inspirational Moment

Petra was of course breathtaking. It was much bigger than expected and had so much to discover. I knew that would be amazing and it did not disappoint. We also got to have dinner with a local family which was a trip highlight for myself and the rest of the group. The family were so welcoming and the food was delicious. We were able to see a small glimpse of the locals' life which they were happy to share with us which i will never forget.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mouayad was amazing. I feel extremely lucky to have been shown Jordan by such a knowledgeable, friendly and patient person. Mouayad is so passionate about his country which is so lovely to see. He made everyone feel welcome and always had a smile on his face. Our trip was made even more special because of Mouayad.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you are interested in seeing the best parts of Jordan then book this trip! It is a full packed trip so expect to be busy.

Gary Howard

Reviewed November 2022

Fabulous Trip

We have had this trip on out to do list for quite a few years. There was great variety and a lot is packed into the week. Well Worth The Wait

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking around the corner to see the Treasury at Petra Hiking up to the high place alter in Petra. The Night Sky in Wadi Rum. Diving the Cedar Pride in Aqaba. Mud bathing in the Dead Sea I know that is 6 but couldn't wittle it down any more

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fadi did an excellent job and managed somehow to keep us mostly pointed in the right direction. He manged to get every thing done and made the trip super easy for us all.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Great Trip. If you are a diver there is a dive centre at the beach so you can arrange a dive for yourself if you so desire. Obviuosly this is not part of the trip :-)

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