Jordan

At a crossroads between Asia, Africa and Europe

Jordan is a country packed with history, culture and unmissable natural sites. Stable politically and with good infrastructure it is a great introduction to the Middle East. Its size means that many of its highlights can easily be combined into one private, group or self drive tour. Highlights include:

  • Iconic Petra, a Nabatean city accessed through a narrow winding gorge and beautifully lit by candles at night.
  • The Roman town of Jerash, famous for its well preserved colonnaded plaza.
  • Wadi Rum, a spectacular desert landscape where you can overnight in a Bedouin camp.
  • The Dana Biosphere Reserve, the largest nature reserve in Jordan where you can stay in the Candlelit Feynan Eco Lodge.
  • Snorkelling in Aqaba on the Red Sea.
  • The famous Madaba mosaic map of the Middle East dating from 527-65 AD.
  • Mount Nebo where Moses is said to have first seen the promised land.
  • Crusader castles.
  • Floating in the mineral rich waters of the Dead Sea.
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Walking in Jordan

If you want to get a real sense of the history and biblical heritage of Jordan then take a walk through its spectacular landscape. This will give you an opportunity to meet the nomadic bedouin, walk the sands made famous by Lawrence of Arabia and see close up some of the spectacular natural rock formations and man made crusader castles – in short the best Jordan has to offer. If you have time and energy there is a 650 km trail connecting Um Qais in the north with Aqaba in the south and taking you to many of Jordan’s important sites. But it is also possible to do smaller sections of the trail (the section from Dana to Petra is popular) as well as half day hikes. Areas where walking is at its best include the Aljoun Forest north of Amman, the wadis near the Dead Sea, around Petra and Dana and of course through the spectacular Martian landscape of Wadi Rum. Walking guidebooks are available so it is possible to self guide some of the walks but for some of the more spectacular, and certainly for Wadi Rum, a local guide is advisable and we can arrange this for you. There is some lovely boutique and characterful accommodation in some areas but in others you will need to stay in one of the luxury international hotels which Jordan does so well.  

Key Facts about Jordan

Jordan Photo Gallery

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Ideas for a tip to Jordan

Here are some ideas for trips to Jordan all of which can be adapted for you and we are always happy to create a bespoke trip from scratch.

From £3140

per person including flights
Jordan, Dead Sea

Jordan self drive

Journey south from Amman along the King's Highway to the Red Rose City of Petra - look out for a train of camels - with stops at the historical sites of Mt Nebo & and Madaba. The road trip continues further south to the other-worldly Wadi Rum, where at night, you could pretend you're on a different planet, before heading down to Jordans only seaside resort, Aqaba, the turnaround point of the trip. Carry on north for a stay at the solar-powered Feynan Eco Lodge, where at night the rooms are lit by candlelight and float on the salty waters of the Dead Sea before heading back again to Amman with visits en-route of Jerash and Ajloun Castle. This is not just any road trip, it's a fascinating journey through Jordan's stunning scenery, its rich ancient history, with unforgettable highlights and empty desert roads.

From £1830

Per person including flights
Jordan, Petra

Petra & Dead Sea Weekender

Just a five-hour flight away from the UK, Jordan is the ideal destination for a short break. On this short bespoke trip, you get a taste for the Red Rose City of Petra, the capital of the ancient Nabateans, hidden deep in the desert mountains. The ancient city of Petra has been drawing in tourists for over 200 years and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Accessible through the main entrance, the Siq (a narrow gorge) takes you Petra's most recognisable ruin, Al-Khazneh (the Treasury). Those interested in a longer walk can take the route from Little Petra and enter the site via the impressive Ad Deir (the Monastery). After exploring the rocky landscape, the tombs, theatres and monuments you head to the Dead Sea for a relaxing afternoon, before you return home.

From £2830

Per person including flights
Jordan, Wadi Rum

Classic Jordan

This comprehensive 8 day tour of Jordan is perfect for the first time visitor, introducing you to the country's most iconic highlights like the Nabatean built Red Rose City of Petra and the well-preserved Roman site of Jerash. In central Jordan visit Crusader Castles before heading south to the Wadi Rum Desert, where you can ride a camel and pretend to be Lawrence of Arabia and overnight in the desert, after an evening of stargazing. While the next day you can find yourself floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions that haven't been answered here? Send your questions to enquiries@shearwatertravel.co.uk and we'll try our best to help.

Yes, a one month visa will be issued to you on arrival. Get specific advice if you are combining a trip to Jordan with one to Israel. Check Foreign Office website for latest advice.

No. Just ensure your usual vaccination are up to date and check NHS advice here.

Women, especially when travelling alone, may receive unwanted attention from men. To minimise hassle, you may choose to wear loose-fitting clothing which cover the arms, legs and chest.

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