The Ultimate Adventure in Jordan

Your adventure begins in Amman, Jordan’s lively capital and one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. After landing at the airport, you’ll be met and transferred to your first base: The House Boutique Suites, a stylish and centrally located hotel where you’ll spend your first two nights. With spacious rooms and a rooftop pool, it’s the perfect place to unwind after your journey. Later in the afternoon (usually around 6:00 PM), meet your guide and fellow travelers for a welcome drink with views across the city, as you chat about the days ahead. In the evening, head out on foot to explore Amman’s thriving street food scene. This is your chance to get a first real taste of Jordan, sampling freshly grilled kebabs, falafel, knafeh and more, while soaking up the atmosphere of downtown. If you arrive later in the evening, your guide will ensure you’re briefed separately and help you settle in – they’ll also share local tips so you can explore Amman’s culinary scene the following day.

After breakfast, set out to explore Amman's historical heart. Begin at the Citadel, perched on one of the city's seven hills, where sweeping views frame Roman ruins and ancient temples. Then descend to the Roman Theater, still impressively intact, before strolling through the atmospheric souks and old markets, passing landmarks like the Al-Husseini Mosque. Leaving the capital behind, head south to the charming town of Madaba, known for its Christian heritage and world-famous mosaics. Here, you'll step into the kitchen at Hikayet Sitti, a beautiful community-run heritage house where local women lead you in a hands-on cooking class. Learn classic Jordanian recipes and share a freshly prepared meal together as part of this unforgettable experience. After lunch, take some time to explore Madaba's streets before driving to Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have glimpsed the Promised Land. Soak in panoramic views across the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and even Jerusalem on a clear day. Return to Amman in the late afternoon, with the evening free to relax or dive deeper into the city's food scene at your own pace.

After an early breakfast, you’ll leave Amman behind and head south towards the Dana Biosphere Reserve, where a striking desert landscape of cliffs, gorges, and sandstone formations awaits. Today you’ll hike the Shaq Al Reesh Trail – a circular route that begins in Al-Barrah and winds through a dramatic siq to the namesake canyon. Expect towering cliffs, shifting desert hues, and a tranquil atmosphere far from the crowds. Continue to Little Petra (Beidha), a Nabataean settlement carved into pale rock that once welcomed traders along ancient caravan routes. Explore its narrow passages, carved facades, and dining halls – a perfect preview of what’s to come. Tomorrow, you’ll enter Petra itself via the backdoor, making this stop a fitting introduction. Your base for the night is the Little Petra Luxury Camp, nestled in a quiet desert valley surrounded by spectacular sandstone formations. This stylish camp offers a unique blend of traditional Bedouin charm and modern comfort. Before dinner, sample a selection of Jordanian craft beers as the sun sets over the cliffs – a golden hour moment you won’t forget.

After breakfast, set out on foot to the Little Petra Visitor Center, where a shuttle will take you to the start of the backdoor trail into Petra. This less-traveled route offers an unforgettable first approach to the ancient city, away from the main crowds. The trail begins with a gentle ascent, offering sweeping views over the Araba Mountains and as far as the Negev Desert on a clear day. Following an old Nabataean route, the path traces the edge of a rugged plateau along a narrow, naturally carved rock terrace. Eventually, you’ll reach a hidden saddle above the deep chasm of Wadi Siyyagh, where suddenly, carved into the cliff face, the magnificent Monastery (Ad Deir) comes into view. Take your time to explore this awe-inspiring site and, if you like, enjoy a break at the Bedouin cafe nearby. From there, descend via the ancient Nabataean steps into Petra’s archaeological core and enjoy lunch in a scenic restaurant surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs, just steps away from the ruins of the Rose City. Recharged, continue through Petra’s archaeological highlights – including the Royal Tombs, Street of Facades, and the Treasury – before exiting via the dramatic Siq into Wadi Musa. Tonight, you’ll stay at Petra Moon Hotel, located just steps from Petra’s main entrance. This comfortable 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms, a seasonal rooftop pool, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains – perfect for resting up after a big day of exploration.

If you have the energy, rise early at 6:00 AM for an (optional) self-guided return visit to Petra’s Treasury, entering through the quiet Siq as the morning light illuminates its famous facade. After breakfast, check out and journey south to Wadi Rum, an otherworldly desert of red sand, soaring rock formations, and vast silence. Unlike most trips that stay just one night, you’ll spend two nights at Sun City Camp, giving you time to truly soak in the desert magic (trust us – once you’re here, you won’t want to leave!) Tucked beneath towering cliffs, the camp features luxury bubble domes with panoramic stargazing windows, en suite bathrooms, and warm Bedouin hospitality. After lunch and a short rest, set off on a scenic desert drive and two short hikes – first through the Um Ishreen Canyon, then into the dramatic Barrah Canyon, where cliffs, sand, and narrow gorges create a spectacular natural playground. Return to camp for a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars, and your first night in this astonishing landscape.

After breakfast, you’ll hop into a 4x4 Jeep for a one-hour drive through the wild heart of Wadi Rum to reach the base of Jebel Al-Hash – a remote desert peak near the Saudi border. This is one of the most scenic spots in the region, offering big rewards with a surprisingly manageable summit hike. The circular route takes 3-4 hours, with gradual inclines, wide-open views, and a mix of rocky paths and some light scrambling. The pace is relaxed and the route is adaptable – your guide will tailor it to the group’s abilities, with easier options available. You don’t need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy this; just a sense of adventure and a decent level of fitness will see you through. At the top, you’ll be treated to 360-degree desert views that stretch for miles: one of the most rewarding vistas in all of Jordan. The descent winds gently through another beautiful rocky valley, where you'll dig into a delicious desert lunch. Back at Sun City Camp, take the afternoon to unwind as you wish, reading, napping, or soaking in the silence. As night falls, gather under the stars at camp. With no light pollution and clear desert skies, this is one of the best places in the world for stargazing, whether from your private bubble dome or by the fire with a cup of sweet Bedouin tea.

After breakfast, head south to Aqaba, Jordan’s vibrant Red Sea city – a refreshing contrast to the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and Petra. In just an hour, you’ll arrive at the marina and board a specialist diving and snorkeling boat for a leisurely cruise along the coast. Spend the day gliding over crystal-clear waters, with stops at some of the Red Sea’s most beautiful coral reefs. Jump in to snorkel among colorful marine life, spot tropical fish darting between vibrant corals, or simply float in the warm water while taking in views across four countries – Jordan, Israel, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Between swims, stretch out on the sun deck and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on board, with light salads and soft drinks served by the crew. After returning to shore in the afternoon, the rest of the day is yours to relax. Take a walk along the beachfront promenade, or unwind at your comfortable 4-star hotel which has an excellent range of facilities, including multiple swimming pools, a private beach, a spa and wellness center with a hot tub, and a fitness center.

Enjoy one final breakfast by the Red Sea before setting off on a scenic road trip to one of Jordan’s most iconic natural wonders – the Dead Sea. At 1,362ft below sea level, this is the lowest point on Earth, and a surreal place to end your journey. Check into a luxe resort for the afternoon and take time to float effortlessly in the mineral-rich, hypersaline waters, where swimming is virtually impossible and relaxation is unavoidable. Slather on some of the famous Dead Sea mud – renowned for its skin-soothing properties – and soak up the sun from a lounger or the poolside terrace. If you’re in the mood, you can also opt for a spa treatment before your drive back to Amman. By late afternoon, you’ll be back in the capital city for your final night. Come together with your group for a farewell dinner, raise a glass to desert hikes, ancient wonders, and unforgettable meals – and relive the highlights of your extraordinary week in Jordan before you say goodbye to your group and guide.

After breakfast, your adventure wraps up. You’ll be transferred to Amman Airport in time for your flight home, whether you’re flying early or later in the day. If you have a later flight, you’re welcome to store your luggage at the hotel and enjoy a final wander through Amman’s bustling souks, pick up some last-minute spices, sweets, or souvenirs, and savor one last Jordanian bite before heading home. Ma’a as-salama – until next time.