Down to earth holidays

Description

Travellers from all over the world have been flocking to the ancient kingdom of Jordan for centuries and it's easy to see why. From the magic of its desert landscapes to the wild and desolate mountains, from the incredible Roman ruins in Jerash to the mystical Petra, generations of visitors have been charmed by the unique cultural experience.

This trip takes in all the classic sites of interest, showing you the wealth of treasures and timeless wonders that make up Jordan's rich heritage. A fascinating land, you'll be amazed at awe-inspiring sights and its rich natural beauty. The 'lost city' or 'forgotten city' of Petra, carved into the rock thousands of years ago is one of the main reasons people go to Jordan. The stone carved monuments of Petra are amongst Jordan's most famous national treasures, and one of the most famous archaeological highlights in the Middle East... you can't fail to be astounded by its amazing pink rock-cut architecture.

But this holiday is more than Petra. You will have time to look around the cosmoplitan capital city of Amman, visit the remarkably preserved ruins of Jerash, tour the 12th century Crusader castle at Kerak, exploring the maze of alleyways and underground dungeons, admire the intricate mosaics of Madaba, take in views across the Jordan Valley from Mt Nebo, experience desert life at Wadi Rum - sometimes called the Valley of the Moon - relax at the beach resort of Aqaba, and of course no visit to Jordan would be complete without a float in the Dead Sea!

Detailed Itinerary

1. Day 1:  Arrive in Amman, where we'll meet you and transfer you to your hotel.
2. Day 2:  After breakfast we head off through the pine forest and olive groves until we reach the city of Ajloun, dominated by the hilltop fortress of Qa'Lat Al Rabat, the only truly Islamic castle in the country. From here we drive 24km to Jerash, considered to be the best preserved Greco-Roman city outside Italy, also known as the Pompeii of the east. A truly fascinating place, with its paved colonnaded streets, theatre, spacious public square and plazas, baths and city walls, all in remarkably good condiiton. It really is like stepping back in time! After a proper look around we head back to Amman for dinner at the hotel. (B,D)
3. Day 3: This morning we have a guided tour of Jordan's capital, taking in some of the highlights of the ancient city, including the Temple of Hercules, the Blue Mosque, the 8th century Ummayad Palace, the Roman Theatre and Nymphaneum. We then head towards the Dead Sea, stopping along the way at Bethany, the site of John the Baptist's settlement and where Jesus was believed to be baptised. From here we continue to the Dead sea, the lowest point on earth 409 meters below sea level. The water's five to ten times as salty as normal sea water, so there's no animal life at all. And it's pretty much impossible to sink! Experience the unique sensation of floating in the salty water, you'll have seen the photos of people reading a book while floating....or why not try a free mud treatment, the sea's mud is reputed to have special healing powers. And don't worry, you can shower afterwards! After sunset, we head back to our hotel in Amman for dinner. (B,D)
4. Day 4: We begin our journey to Petra, with some terrific excursions en route. First stop is the Roman Byzantine town of Madaba, best known for its mosaics, including the famous 6th century Great map of Palestine. From mosaics to mountains, not far from Madaba is another biblical site, Mount Nebo. Believed to be the site of Moses death, from the summit you can enjoy stunning views over the Jordan Valley and beyond into Israel.....you can even see Jerusalem on a clear day. Next we head down the King's highway to Kerak, imposingly sited on a hilltop about 1000 meters above sea level, surrounded on three sides by a valley, with an incredible view of the Dead Sea. At Kerak we visit the 12th century crusader's Castle, and explore the maze of alleyways and underground dungeons. Then it's back to the desert highway to reach Petra in time for dinner.(B,D) 
5. Day 5: Without doubt Petra is Jordan's most valuable treasure and greatest tourist attraction so you'll be pleased to have a full two days to explore the 'Rose Red 'City, or 'Lost City'. Rediscovered in 1812, having been lost for thousands of years, it is now considered to be one of the new Wonders of the World. Enter the city through the narrow Siq canyon, a huge deep crack in the sandstone that forms the dramatic entrance. After a kilometre long walk, round the final corner you'll catch your first glimpse of the most stunning building of all - the Treasury. You'll be blown away by the unforgettable view of this perfectly proportioned Treasury tomb, carved from the towering rock. Following the path round, you'll come to the old theatre, cave dwellings and hundreds of elaborate rock-cut tombs with intricate carvings. You'll have some free time here to see whatever interests you - perhaps admire the Monastery, the evocative Royal Tombs, the colonnaded street that was once lined with shops, or the Temple of the Winged Lions. Phew - then it's a walk back to the hotel for dinner.(B,D)
6. Day 6: A full free day at Petra to enjoy at your lesiure. You could go back to the ruins at your own pace to further explore Petra's rock hewn architecture and discover its history. (Second entry fee is not included). Or you could take our optional visit to El Beidhe (little Petra). Another great thing to do is try a traditional Hammam (Turkish bath)! And there's also the option to see Petra by candlelight, when it's at its most enchanting, and by which time most of the holiday tour groups have gone! (This operates on a Monday, Wednesday and Thursday so should be available on one of your nights at Petra) (B) 
7. Day 7: We leave Petra at 9am for a day well and truly off the beaten track, with a four-wheeled safari across the desert to Wadi Rum, the Valley of the Moon. Here you'll be drawn into the adventure and feel the romance of the Arabian desert. Take in the stark desert scenery full of incredible rock formations with inscriptions carved in prehistoric times. Wadi Rum's like a moonscape of ancient valleys and towering weathered sandstones mountians rising out of different hues of coloured sands. This is where Lawrence of Arabia and Prince Faisal got the Arab tribes together for an attack on Aqaba during the Arab Revolt, and also where parts of the famous 'Lawrence' film were shot! After visiting the most impressive sights of Wadi Rum we finish the day with a BBQ dinner. Then in true desert style, we camp in the Wadi Rum protected area, where you can either sleep in a tent or sleep under the stars. Night skies are truly sensational here so this promises to be a magical experience! (B,L,D)
8. Day 8: After a camp breakfast we head to the main road by 4WD and then have a 1 hour bus ride with more dramatic scenery to Aqaba, Jordan's holiday resort. There's plenty to do here; if you're still feeling active you could take a trip to Aqaba Castle, or you may simply prefer to lounge on the beach. There's also a good choice of al fresco restuarants on offer, so try the fresh local seafood. (B)
9. Day 9: Enjoy a lie-in as you have a full free day at your leisure. Soak up the sunshine and make the most of  your final day... You could take a boat trip, windsurf, swim in the warm waters of the Red Sea, snorkel on the coral reef or just kick back and relax on the beach, reflecting on the fantastic advenutre you've just had!(B)
10. Day 10: Early transfer back to Amman via the desert highway. Journey time around 4 hours; you will be taken to the airport for your flight home (if selected).