Historic Jordan

You'll spend the morning touring Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world, with its grand colonnaded streets, temples, and theatres. From here, you'll continue to Ajloun, home to an impressive 12th-century Arab castle built to defend against Crusader forces. Next, you'll travel to Umm Qais, a spectacularly located ancient city with breathtaking views over the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights. Finally, you'll visit Pella, a fascinating site on the edge of the Jordan Valley, known for its temples and early Christian ruins.

You'll take a journey east of Amman to explore Jordan’s Desert Castles, a collection of early Islamic bathhouses, hunting lodges, and fortresses built by the Umayyad dynasty. These structures, adorned with intricate frescoes and carvings, offer a glimpse into the lavish lives of the ruling elites. On your way back to Amman, you'll visit Iraq Al-Amir, a little-known but intriguing Hellenistic temple, set in a picturesque valley and home to a local women’s cooperative that produces handcrafted goods.

Today, you'll enjoy a guided tour of Amman, beginning at the Citadel, which sits on top of one of the city's highest hills, offering spectacular views over the capital. You'll explore the ruins of ancient temples, Byzantine churches, and the Umayyad Palace, before heading to the Roman Theatre, an impressive 6,000-seat amphitheatre still in use today. You’ll also have time to visit museums and local souks, where you can browse traditional crafts and sample Jordanian delicacies.

You'll head south along the King’s Highway today, an ancient trading route rich in history. Your first stop is Madaba, famous for its mosaic map of the Holy Land, the oldest surviving representation of the region. Next, you'll visit Mukawir, the hilltop fortress where Salome danced for the head of John the Baptist. Finally, you'll explore Kerak Castle, a Crusader stronghold with a maze of tunnels, chambers, and dramatic views over the surrounding valleys. From here, you'll continue to Petra for a four-night stay.

Today is sure to be a highlight of your historical Jordan holiday. You'll start your guided tour of Petra, walking through the Siq Canyon, a winding gorge that leads to the iconic Treasury Tomb, one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world. From there, you'll continue to explore the ancient city, passing sites such as the Royal Tombs, the Colonnaded Street, and the grand Qasr El Bint temple, once a major place of worship in the Nabataean city.

This morning, you'll visit Little Petra, a smaller but fascinating archaeological site with rock-hewn buildings and ancient frescoes. If you're up for an adventure, you'll hike over the mountains along the back route to Petra, arriving at the Monastery, a colossal rock-cut temple that rivals the Treasury in grandeur. The hike offers incredible views and a chance to explore Petra away from the crowds.

You'll have a free day to explore Petra independently. You might want to visit the churches near the main street, climb up to the Monastery again, or hike to the Place of High Sacrifice, which offers panoramic views over the ruins. For the more adventurous, there's also the option to exit Petra via the Tunnel Siq, a little-known Nabataean water tunnel that provides a unique perspective of the city.

You'll travel north along the King’s Highway today, stopping first at Shobak Castle, a Crusader fortress perched dramatically on a hilltop. From here, you'll continue to Umm ar-Rasas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its beautifully preserved Byzantine mosaics, depicting biblical scenes and historic cities. In the late afternoon, you'll arrive at the Dead Sea, where you'll check in for a three-night stay.

Today, you'll visit Bethany-on-the-Jordan, an important biblical site believed to be where John the Baptist baptised Jesus. The area has been extensively excavated, revealing ancient churches, baptism pools, and pilgrimage routes. After exploring, you'll return to your Dead Sea resort, where you can spend the rest of the day floating in the mineral-rich waters or indulging in a spa treatment.

You'll have a second full day at leisure to enjoy the Dead Sea today, famous for its healing properties and unique buoyancy. If you're interested in sightseeing, you might wish to visit the Dead Sea Panoramic Complex, which offers incredible views over the Jordan Rift Valley and a brilliant, informative exhibition on the region’s geology and history.

You'll be transferred to Amman Airport today for your return flight to the UK, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Jordan’s ancient wonders, rich history and sprawling landscapes.