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Holidays

A brand, spanking new year is around the corner. 12 fresh months, 52 weeks, 365 days – all just waiting to be filled with adventures. Travel was well and truly back in 2022 (thank goodness!), and 2023 is set to be bursting with holidays left, right and centre. We’ve been busy designing holidays all over the World, here’s a handy infographic to show where you’re going (so far) over the next 12 months… Have you booked your 2023 holiday yet? If not, now’s the time!   Get inspired…   Wildlife, nature and Pura Vida lifestyle is top of the bill in 2023. Costa Rica is the most popular holiday destination amongst our clients (so far), with 12% of holidays heading to the nature lover’s paradise.   Costa Rica holiday highlights ☑ Visit Arenal , Costa Rica’s adventure capital, and zip line through the canopy, soak in the hot springs, kayak in the shadow of a live volcano and hike over hanging bridges. ☑ Soak up the wild beauty of the Osa Peninsula . Reaching this region is a bit of a challenge, but being simply the best place to see wildlife in all of Costa Rica, we’d argue it’s more than worth it! ☑ Sun yourself on one of the beautiful beaches along the Northern Pacific Coast . Don’t miss a visit to the tranquil Nicoya Peninsula (and a stay at the incredible Lagarta Lodge , too!) Costa Rica holidays     A county of so much variation and contrast, it’s not tricky to see why Vietnam makes up a huge 10.9% of our 2023 holidays already.   Vietnam holiday highlights ☑ Float amidst the towering limestone rocks of Asia’s most spectacular landscape. A cruise on Ha Long Bay is a must for any Vietnam holiday. ☑ Enjoy a slower pace of life for a few days in the yellow-washed gem that is Hoi An . With cobbled streets that come alive with the light of thousands of lanterns after dark, small tailoring shops, riverside cafes and traditional merchant houses, it’s a special place. ☑ Trek with a local hill tribe through the stunning landscapes around Sapa . Vibrant green valleys, perfectly terraced rice paddies, fast-flowing streams and countless waterfalls await you here. Vietnam holidays     A Jordan holiday is so much more than just a visit to Petra. As 9.9% of our booked clients are set to find out next year…   Jordan holiday highlights ☑ You simply can’t visit Jordan without making a trip to “the rose-red city half as old as time”. Petra is as stunning as it is historic, prepare to pinch yourself once you’ve made your way down the Siq Canyon and are treated to that first glimpse of the famous Treasury Tomb. ☑ Experience the feeling of weightlessness with a bob about in the turquoise waters of the Dead Sea . Found at the lowest point on the Earth’s surface (422 metres below sea level, to be exact), it’s a truly unique place to visit – and the health benefits claimed of its waters are worth the trip, too! ☑ Visit the ancient city of Jerash . Found just outside Amman , Jordan’s capital, these ruins are incredibly well preserved and anyone who loves a bit of history in their holiday mix, will be in their element here. Jordan holidays     South Africa is the destination that started HA. It was the very first place we ever sent clients all those many years ago. And, with 8.7% of holidays heading here next year, we’re chuffed that it’s still as popular as ever.   South Africa holiday highlights ☑ Most South Africa holidays we design, start in the incredible capital of Cape Town . And what a welcome. Gorgeous beaches ready for sundowners, fantastic shopping, fascinating history and world-class food and drink – all set against a backdrop of the unmistakable Table Mountain. It’s not hard to see why Cape Town is considered one of the most iconic cities in the World. ☑ Animals, animals, animals. The quest for the Big 5 is at the top of most South Africa holiday wish lists. And, with incredible safari offerings all over the country, wildlife sightings are (almost) guaranteed to be brilliant here. They’re wild animals of course, they go where they please. But, whether you visit Kruger , the Eastern Cape , Limpogo , KwaZulu-Natal , the Kalahari , or one of the many other reserves – we fancy your chances! ☑ Head to the Great Escarpment , to take in some of the very best landscapes South Africa has to offer. With waterfalls, river canyons, forests, wildlife and viewpoints galore (don’t miss God’s Window!) – it’s a great addition to any South Africa holiday. South Africa holidays     It’s finally back! It’s been off the holiday list for far too long, so we couldn’t be happier that 8.5% of the booked travels in 2023 are heading off to this captivating country. Bullet trains, robot cafes, perfect gardens, bamboo forests, ancient walking trails and so much culture awaits.   Japan holiday highlights ☑ We’re not sure you can visit Japan, without experiencing its largest, craziest and most robot-filled cities. Tokyo is often considered the biggest metropolis on the planet – and we love it. For all of its neon lights and progressive technology, its historic soul is very much intact with countless temples, shrines and gardens dotted around the city. ☑ The spiritual heart of Japan, Kyoto is bursting with shrines and history. Step back in time with a bike ride down the ancient streets of the Gion neighbourhood (keep your eyes peeled for Geisha!), head to the bright red gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine and even test your sword skills at a Ninja workshop . ☑ Experience a different side of Japanese life and culture with some time in Takayama . The perfect base from which to visit to beautiful, rural countryside (the Christmas-card village of Shirakawago is very close by!) – the antique wooden buildings will charm you in no time at all. Japan holidays     Without doubt the must exotic and alluring getaway you can have within a 4-hour flight from the UK, it’s no wonder that Morocco is always a popular one with our clients, snapping up 8.2% of 2023 booking so far.   Morocco holiday highlights ☑ Spend a day or two on the golden sands of the Erg Chebbi. It’s one of only two places in Morocco where you can see the start of the great Sahara Desert. Take a camel ride across the dunes and sleep under the stars. A highlight of any Morocco holiday for sure. ☑ Explore the bohemian streets, pretty medina and blue-washed walls of Chefchaouen . Perfect for photography lovers, this stunning town is set against a backdrop of mountains with so many trails to explore! ☑ For a real slice of authentic Morocco, venture into the High Atlas Mountains and spend some time with the Berbers . There are trails to explore, mountains to climb, fresh mint tea to drink and home-cooked traditional dinners with local families to enjoy. Morocco holidays     Sri Lanka had a bit of a rocky start to the year, but we’re delighted to say it’s fully back on the holiday radar now! With 7% of booked holidays next year visiting this jewel-shaped island, we’re so excited for more of our clients to fall in love with all it has to offer.   Sri Lanka holiday highlights ☑ Take on of the most picturesque train rides on earth up into the rolling tea hills in the middle of the country. Make the most of the slight drop in temperature and take a hike to Lipton’s Seat, enjoy a tour of a local tea factory and indulge in High Tea at the Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya. ☑ Dig out your binoculars for a safari at Yala National Park . With a varied ecosystem made up of monsoon forests, grasslands, sandy beaches and wetlands – the animal sightings are brilliant here. Plus, said to be home to one of the highest concentrations of leopard on earth, it’s THE place to go if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of one of the illusive cats. ☑ Spend some time in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle to get a taste of the country’s rich history. Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, explore the Dambulla Cave Temples and take a bike ride around the ancient city ruins of Polonnaruwa. Sri Lanka holiday     Namibia has been having a bit of a moment recently and – quite rightly – growing in popularity as a Southern Africa holiday destination. An impressive 6.6% of HA holidays next year are heading to this otherworldly landscape…   Namibia holiday highlights ☑ One of the big hitters of Namibia holidays, the sand seas of the Namib Desert (the oldest desert on earth don’t you know!) around Sossusvlei are something very special. The graceful curves of the massive glowing dunes stand in stark contrast to the other-worldly white pans “vleis”, with dead trees and cracked mud, that lay in their shadow. ☑ The Skeleton Coast forms a division between mainland Namibia and the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Dotted with shipwrecks, without doubt, this coast line is one of Namibia’s most unspoiled and remote areas. Experience it in true style with this ‘Flying the Skeleton Coast’ holiday. ☑ Head to the wide open plains of Etosha National Park to experience one of Southern Africa’s premier safari destinations. Boasting incredible numbers of elephant, zebra, giraffe, antelope and big cats, (plus fairly good number of elusive Black rhino!), a safari adventure awaits here. Namibia holidays     Nabbing 6.1% of next year’s holiday bookings so far, the orangutan-filled rainforests of Borneo are looking to be popular over the next 12 months.   Borneo holiday highlights ☑ A nature-lovers dream, the Danum Valley Conservation Area is one of the world’s most complex ecosystems. It’s perfect for wildlife spotting, with orangutan, Pygmy elephant and clouded leopard spotted frequently. The area is strongly protected, and access tightly restricted, so make sure you factor in a stay at the beautiful Borneo Rainforest Lodge to experience it for yourself. ☑ Visit the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre in the heart of Sepilok. Set amidst lush rainforest and explored via a series of elevated walkways, this is a brilliant place to come for a taste of Borneo wildlife – with the chance to do good along the way. ☑ The island paradise of Gaya Island is the perfect place to unwind on your Borneo holiday after all of the orangutan-spotting excitement. White-sand beaches, fringed with lush palms on one side and turquoise waters the other. Dive on in. Borneo holidays     Canada is vast, diverse and packed full of extraordinarily wide range of scenery and experiences. Whether you’re after beautiful beaches, snowy mountains, wildlife encounters, adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures or a tranquil lake cruise – it’s got you covered. That 5.2% of bookings are in for a real treat…   Canada holiday highlights ☑ Take one of the World’s most iconic journeys, a train ride on the Rocky Mountain Express through the towering snow-capped peaks of the the Rocky Mountains. This two-day rail journey takes you all the way from Vancouver to beautiful Jasper. ☑ Experience the power of Mother Nature at full force with a visit to Niagara Falls . You can take a boat ride right up to the falls, fly over the top of it or even walk right behind the plummeting water. Plus, nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake with its artisan shops, art galleries and cafes is the perfect base. ☑ You can’t truly appreciate the beauty of Canada until you’ve seen Banff with your own eyes. Canada’s very first National Park (created in 1883), the bright blue water set against the backdrop of mountain wilderness, is pinch-yourself perfect.     The charm of the Cambodian smile is ready and waiting to welcome 4% of HA holiday bookings in 2023 (so far, that is!). We have a real soft spot for this country, its beauty, sights, and its warm, resilient people.   Cambodia holiday highlights ☑ Fall in love with the charms of Siem Reap . Obviously you have to spend some time exploring the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat , but there’s so much more on offer here. Take a street food tour by vespa and enjoy some of the many sophisticated restaurants and chic bars popping up all over the town. Don’t miss an evening at the Phare Circus either, such talent! ☑ Sun yourself on the secret islands of the south coast . With powdery white sand beaches, lapped with clear blue waters, these small islands boast dramatic headlands and jungle forests. They’re also home to luxurious hideaways perfect for a slice of well deserved R&R after time spent soaking up the history and culture of Cambodia. ☑ Journey up into the Cardamom Mountains . This remote virgin rainforest is one of the last remaining habitats for Asian elephants, bears, tigers and the Siamese crocodile. With deserted river islands, thundering waterfalls and Wildlife Sanctuaries to visit, the Cardamom Mountains would be a great addition to any Cambodia holiday. Cambodia holidays     Oman is such a unique holiday destination – and we can’t wait to send 3.5% of our 2023 clients there. With cities, deserts, rich culture, mountain villages and so much history to explore, it has all the makings of a great adventure for all the family.   Oman holiday highlights ☑ Start your adventure with some time in the capital of Muscat . Old Muscat and Muttrah make up the historical heart of the city, with palaces to explore, forts to walk around, giant chandeliers to be wowed by and old souqs to get lost in. With beach resorts nearby and the option to take a sunset Dhow cruise , too, there’s something for everyone. ☑ It might be just a few hours from Muscat, but the Wahiba Sands feel anything but. Stretching nearly 200 miles from north to south, you’ll find towering golden dunes, deep valleys, local Bedouins and an awful lot of camels here. What’s more, with some beautiful tented camps to choose from, you’ll be relaxing in comfort under the starry desert skies. ☑ Venture up towards the Hajar Mountains and explore the sheer canyons, terraced villages and forts around Nizwa . You’ll feel a million miles away from day-to-day life here – a real insight into rural Omani life. Oman holidays     Whether you visit the North Island, the South Island, or both, New Zealand has all of the makings of an adventure worthy of your 2023 holidays. With 2.4% of booked holidays heading here, we’re already excited to see the travel snaps.     New Zealand holiday highlights ☑ Get away from it all and spend some time in Abel Tasman National Park . All of New Zealand is staggeringly beautiful, but there’s something extra special about this region. With sheltered turquoise waters perfect for kayaking and so many incredible walking trails with a more breathtaking view waiting around every corner – it’s a must. ☑ Be captivated by the marine life playground that is Kaikoura . This is THE place to go to spot giant sperm whales, playful dusky dolphins, seals, sweeping albatross and so much more. ☑ Tucked away in the far south-western corner of the South Island, you’ll find the Fjordland National Park. A boat ride through Milford Sound (or the slightly quieter Doubtful Sound), will certainly make you New Zealand holiday highlights list.   So, where makes your holiday wish list?   Latest posts 15 of our favourite holiday ideas Summer holiday ideas: Our team share their favourite summer itineraries The hibernation’s over: Canada holidays are back! The most popular destinations for 2025 so far Holiday quiz: Find your perfect 2025 holiday  

Though  Jordan is one of the safest countries in the Middle East, one of the most popular questions we get asked about Jordan holidays tours is “is Jordan safe to travel to?” Travellers see the wind-sculpted sandstone of Petra , the salt-ruffled shores of the Dead Sea , and the deep red dunes of Wadi Rum and are quite rightly inspired to visit. But at a time of political uncertainty and with the Middle East featuring in the news for less-than-favourable reasons, there is an element of hesitation for many. It’s at this time that many potential visitors look to a well-established tour operator for help in their planning and for reassurance that their holiday won’t be interrupted by minor local conflicts or wider security issues. The extra reassurance of booking through an expert who has insider knowledge of the country and its customs is invaluable. But trip reports from past visitors can also help to alleviate any stresses, too. Many tourists to Jordan will happily wax lyrical about the effusive hospitality, delicious food, magnificent landscapes and laid-back feel. So, while it’s important to get the facts, chatting to those who have been there can help. If you’re planning a Jordan holiday tour and wondering yourself if Jordan is safe to travel to, the answer is a definite yes, and here’s why. Jordan: what to know before you go Take a look at a map of Jordan and you’ll be familiar with many of its neighbours. The country may be almost completely surrounded by past and present areas of conflict, but it has remained a safe destination to visit throughout. Though travelling to any destination in the world comes with some form of risk, many people have preconceptions of Jordan based on its location. While Jordan is rightly proud of its cultural and historical roots, it is one of the Middle East’s most progressive countries and travelling to Jordan poses less of a risk than many popular holiday destinations. In fact, the World Economic Forum ranked Jordan 38 th out of 136 in its 2017 Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report – putting it ahead of a number of European countries such as Cyprus and Poland. It’s worth noting that the FCO advice has remained consistent for many years, and some 70,000 British travellers make their way to Jordan every year; the vast majority of visits are trouble-free. When you arrive, you’ll notice a number of security additions at hotels, public buildings and tourist sites, as you would elsewhere in the world. These might be security guards and metal detectors on arrival, tourist police at major sites and checkpoints at border zones – these are all for your safety, and not something to worry about. Jordan is a popular travel destination for good reason, so you should feel completely safe about travelling here: it’s becoming increasingly popular with families, too. How to stay safe in Jordan Visiting somewhere new means we can feel cautious – but sometimes this is no bad thing in helping you to stay safe when travelling. Whether you’re on a city break in Europe or heading off on an epic adventure through South America, there are certain things you can do to feel safer – Jordan holidays tours are no different. When travelling, we’d always recommend that you never carry too much cash on you in one go – ATMs are widely available and major credit cards are accepted almost anywhere. You can even buy a prepaid card for an extra level of security. Crime levels in Jordan are relatively low – pickpocketing can happen, but it’s as likely as travelling to a major European city. Keeping your valuables secure (or leaving them at home) is advisable, as is remaining vigilant in built-up areas. Though pickpocketing is rare, it’s also sensible to keep a photographed copy of your passport separate to the real thing – just in case it goes walkabout. Jordan is much more forward-thinking than many of its neighbours, and its people can choose to protest if they want to action change from their government – we have these demonstrations in the United Kingdom too, and they are mostly peaceful. That said, it’s worth steering clear of large public gatherings in places like the capital, Amman . If you’re ever in doubt, trust the advice of the Jordanian police and the security services: they are as welcoming and friendly as the rest of the population. Of course, booking with a reputable tour operator is one of the best ways to ensure a smooth trip – it’s always good to know that they can step in and help in the unlikely chance you need assistance. Aside from being in the safe hands of a local expert tour guide or driver – all of whom will have been extensively vetted – you’ll also have the back-up of experts back in the UK. It goes without saying that travel insurance should always be high on your checklist of things to purchase before you travel; even for small claims to do with your airline, or helping with hospital treatment should you become unwell, it’s an invaluable investment. Following local laws and customs in Jordan Every country in the world has its own unique laws and customs: it’s one of the reasons that makes travelling abroad so fascinating. While some customs may seem alien, following along is not only a unique opportunity to observe life from a new perspective, but also the best way to respect your host nation’s hospitality. And Jordanians are certainly hospitable: don’t be surprised if you are welcomed with a warm handshake and invited to take tea or coffee with your host – it’s a common practice and just another way that Jordanians show their friendliness, and it’s a sign of respect to be invited into someone’s home. Some visitors may even find themselves invited to dinner – Jordanians love to host! The Bedouin in particular see hospitality as an honour or duty; you may end up feeling like one of the family, even after a short stay. You may also be presented with a barrage of questions about where you are from, and what life is like for you at home. Again – this is just a sign of friendliness and the inquisitive nature of the country’s famously welcoming people. Jordan is a mainly Muslim country, though it is not as devout as its neighbours and you will find alcohol widely available in restaurants and hotels. That being said, many women choose to wear the veil and, out of respect to the modest culture, we would always recommend that female travellers keep shoulders, knees and chests covered with light layers. The country does get very warm in the summer, but when wearing natural fabrics like linen and cotton, you will probably feel cooler than walking around in strappy tops and short shorts. One aspect of life in the Middle East is haggling. If you do decide to go shopping during your visit, you will find haggling part of the process. The best advice: don’t be shy! Get stuck in – the vendor is expecting you to haggle. Our advice would be to offer only what you would be happy to pay – not what you think the item is worth. Driving in Jordan: staying safe on the roads As with most countries in the Middle East, the standards of driving are much lower than they are in the United Kingdom and Europe and may not be what you’re used to at home. The infrastructure in Jordan is quite modern, with paved roads, efficient public transport and highways, but the overall standard of driving has yet to catch up. If you’re planning on travelling around Jordan, hiring a driver from a reputable agency – or booking one through a tour agent – is the best way to ensure you can get from A to B safely. Taxis are widely available and are a popular way to travel – just make sure you book in advance and check the driver’s credentials before you travel. Alternatively, ask your hotel to book one for you. It’s also a good idea to agree on the fare in advance. If you do choose to drive yourself, note that wearing seatbelts is obligatory, speed traps are widespread, and fines are levied for those who break the speed limit. Using mobile phones is also illegal while driving – just like the United Kingdom! What is safe to eat and drink in Jordan? You may be surprised to hear it but tap water in Jordan is generally regarded as safe to drink. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or only planning a short stay, it may be wise to stick to filtered or bottled water just in case. Jordanian cuisine is packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, and it’s not difficult to find delicious vegetarian dishes. More ‘international’ tastes are widely catered to in hotels and larger towns, too, if you’re travelling with fussy eaters. If you’re wanting to introduce Jordanian cuisine gradually, start with something simple like chickpea-packed falafel. Jordan adventure holidays: are they safe? Jordan is a stunning country with fantastic landscapes, from the ‘forgotten’ city of Petra to the lunar-like scenery of Wadi Rum . Adventure travel is popular, from hiking in the hills to diving at the Red Sea resort of Aqaba . In recent years, Jordan holidays tours have become popular with adventurous travellers looking to explore a quieter, more authentic side to the Middle East, where activities like dune bashing can be combined with a more cultural tour. Travelling with a reputable agent who can organise these tours is the best place to start, as the quality of local tour operators varies greatly. A fully-vetted establishment with safety as a priority should be your only port of call if you want to discover Jordan on foot, by bike or in a four-wheel drive. You should also ensure you are well prepared for any activities you might be taking part in, with appropriate clothing for the weather. While most of Jordan is pleasant to travel year-round, the desert areas can get very hot in the summer months, so it’s vitally important to stay sufficiently hydrated and to wear a high-factor sunscreen. As with all travel, staying safe on Jordan holiday tours is not an issue if you follow the appropriate guidance from the FCO and your tour operator. For more information about local customs to providing advice on when and where to travel, you can get all your questions answered in one place by someone who has extensive experience travelling in this part of the world. So, do contact us to answer any questions you may have about your travels, including the safety of Jordan – we’re more than happy to talk to you. Contact our resident expert Catherine to discover more about Jordan and to plan your own personal itinerary.          

Despite being blanketed in desert, Jordan is emerging as a popular destination for  active holidays . Far from being an inhospitable environment, the desert landscapes offer almost otherworldly scenery – much different to what we are used to experiencing in Europe. To see the country in all its natural glory, it’s best to escape the confines of air-conditioned cars and hotels and explore on foot ; not only will you get to discover some of the country’s most recognisable highlights, such as the Mars-like panoramas of Wadi Rum and the rosy-tinted sandstone palaces of Petra, you’ll also get to enjoy its unspoilt nature reserves. Much of the country’s wild places have been preserved by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature; the organisation was founded in 1966 and got a head-start on conserving Jordan’s ecological heritage compared to many of its neighbours. In recent years, walking holidays in Jordan have become so popular that the non-profit Jordan Trail Association launched the Jordan Trail in 2017 – an overland hike that covers around 600 kilometres of footpaths between the northern border with Israel and the coastal resort of Aqaba in the south. This adventure is on the epic end of the scale – think 35 to 40 days on average to cover the distance, if you’re walking a bit every day. But there are a vast number of options if you don’t have months to spend on an adventure, and you can even take in parts of the newly-inaugurated trail. Tackling Jordan on foot is an immensely rewarding experience: you’ll get to see ancient ruins up close, stroll through the deserts, descend into towering canyons, and meet the warm and welcoming people along the way – you may even get to share a cup of sweet mint tea with a Bedouin family. Whether you are looking to plan a thrilling point-to-point adventure or simply work a shorter day hike into a Jordan trekking holiday , here are some of the beautiful nature reserves and panoramic hikes you can see along the way. What can you see on Jordan trekking holidays? Whilst Jordan’s main draw is clearly its historic wonders like Petra and the Crusader Castles, the country is also notable for its rare and elusive wildlife . The regions of Dana and Ajloun are particularly famous for their bird-spotting, as the country is a central hub for migrating species – head to the wetlands of Azraq or Ajloun in the north and keep your binoculars handy. Some of the animals you might spot include Nubian ibex, sand cat and Syrian wolf, and roe deer are often spotted in Ajloun. Best time for trekking holidays The temperature in Jordan may rise to dizzying levels in the summer months, when the mercury often reaches 35 to 40 degrees, though the country can easily be explored year-round. However, the best time to visit is in the shoulder season, which sees fewer tourists and more pleasant temperatures – ideal if you’re embarking on Jordan trekking holidays . We’d recommend the spring months of March to June for Jordan adventure holidays, when the days are warm and the beautiful wildflowers come into full bloom after the winter rains – the canyons are lush and green and many of the trees in the north are heavy with fruit. The countryside is full of lush green grasses and pretty flowers, such as the striking black iris. It’s also the best time to spot Jordan’s shy residents of the animal kingdom. However, the autumn months of mid-October to December also afford perfect walking conditions, with the scorched colours of summer (just minus the soaring temperatures). Where to go on Jordan trekking holidays Walking holidays to Jordan are the ideal way to explore the wilder reaches of the country, heading into the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and the beautiful, protected scenery of Dana Nature Reserve and some of the country’s less-visited areas. Wadi Rum One of the most famous sights in Jordan is surely the tawny dunes of Wadi Rum , where canyons, rock bridges and jaw-dropping formations provide a stunning backdrop. The deep blue skies contrast perfectly with the rich sand which changes colour from palest straw to deepest ochre, depending on the time of day. Hiking in Wadi Rum offers the chance to experience the full-blown desert, striding among towering mountains of rippling sandstone and unbroken dunes, encountering the Bedouin people and camping under a blanket of stars. Walking in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia – plus all the other explorers that came before and after him – you’ll discover the human evidence of those who have passed this way, from rock inscriptions to ruins linked to the great Lawrence and his desert fighting force. One thing you’ll notice while trekking in Wadi Rum is the magnificent silence, just the sound of the wind whistling between the dunes and your footsteps crunching on the sand. After long days of walking you won’t want to travel too far to find a comfortable bed to sleep in, so it’s worth picking one of Wadi Rum’s desert camps. While there are several to choose from, we like Mazayen Rum Camp , which is a great example of Jordan’s famous hospitality. The private tents are furnished with Bedouin-style details and even have their own en-suite bathrooms, plus each tent is elevated off the desert floor on wooden panels, so you won’t find yourself deluged by the sand. Petra Perhaps the most enduring image of Jordan is the rose red city of Petra , voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll have heard of it as a must-see on your Jordan trekking holiday itinerary, but as well as being a magnificent historical site it’s also a great walking and trekking destination. You can start in the dramatic Siq Canyon, make your way to the stunning Treasury and explore the remains of the Nabataean city, taking in the temples and tombs , before heading to the outer reaches of the site to embark on some truly amazing walks and climbs – the views here are incredible, gazing out over the wind-sculpted sandstone mountains. Up here, it’s easy to escape the crowds and take in the size of this once-forgotten city. One of the most jaw-dropping routes takes you between Petra and Little Petra, a secondary site a short distance from the main ruin. While the Siq is undoubtedly the most incredible first impression, the route from Little Petra is just as impressive and is worth a walk on your additional days in the area. The path begins near Little Petra and winds its way up the outside of the mountains which shield the main city from view. The real reward comes when you take in the incredible horizon as you reach the top and the Monastery Tomb, which towers above you. Set off early in the morning and you’ll reach the tomb before any of the crowds that arrive via the main entrance, with time to enjoy the panoramic views with only the local Bedouin for company. It’s not a long walk – only about five kilometres from the main site – though you’ll need to be reasonably fit to deal with the ascent and have a head for heights, as you may need to cross a couple of hair-raising voids along the way. If you’d like more time in the city, it’s also possible to explore Petra by yourself . If you’ve already taken a guided tour and are feeling reasonably familiar with the layout, don’t miss the chance to discover the city on your own. Make sure you’re well-prepared for the dizzying climb up to the plateau – stable footwear and water are a must – and enjoy the views across the rift valley towards the Dead Sea, Israel and Aaron’s Tomb, a tiny white dot perched upon a distant peak. Dana Biosphere Reserve For a truly immersive experience within Jordan’s natural beauty, you’ll want to head for Dana Biosphere Reserve , the largest reserve in Jordan at 320 square kilometres, which surrounds Wadi Dana as it leads down from the Jordanian Plateau to the Dead Sea. At the head of the valley, Dana village is a traditional settlement which has been rescued from ruin by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), one of the most progressive conservation bodies in the Middle East. The organisation helped to resurrect the village and encouraged tourism to the area, helping to provide villagers with jobs. Because of this, the traditional way of life has been preserved, and many of the local people give guided walks around the reserve. As well as meeting the residents and learning about their customs, it’s also possible to view a variety of rare and protected wildlife, such as the Nubian ibex and sand cat. There are many trails to explore within Dana, such as the Wadi Dana Trail which encircles the head of the magnificent canyon. The trail takes around five to seven hours and can be walked in either direction, but it’s best done downhill as there are several hundred metres elevation change between the start and the finish. En route, you’ll get to look out over the amazing views down the Wadi, as well as across the village’s traditional terraced gardens which supply much of the food for the village. Along with your local villager guide, you follow a well-defined path through the Wadi. The joys of having an expert guide mean they will be able to point out the wildlife and the historic sights of the Wadi system, such as the old copper workings and Byzantine settlements – the former an interesting side note if you’re feeling fit. The route leads from Dana village to almost sea level at Feynan, where there’s a fabulous lodge also run by the RSCN. Feynan Ecolodge is situated in a rocky amphitheatre and is made almost entirely of traditional materials in the local style, and is powered exclusively by solar – at night, the lighting is provided by candles reflected by shards of mirror and glass. While the rooms are simply decorated with smooth earthen walls, all have en-suite bathrooms and solar-heated showers, and it’s a restful spot to relax after a long day of walking. If you feel like resting your feet for a day, mountain bikes are available for pedalling through the surrounding hills. What’s almost certain is that there will be very few other visitors in sight. Ajloun Forest Reserve Also operated by the RSCN is Ajloun Forest Reserve , one of Jordan’s smaller reserves, which offers a totally off-the-beaten-track experience. Staying nearby means bedding down in simple tents or chalets, but this is to best appreciate the proximity to nature. The surrounding countryside is criss-crossed by many beautiful trails. Staying here also offers a novel way to explore some of the area’s big-hitting sights, as Ajloun Castle and Jerash are just a short hop away. The main draw to this beautiful region is the opportunity to experience Jordan at a slower pace, with the chance to spot many of the elusive wild animals. The plant life here is also quite spectacular, with the trails zipping up and down the sloping hills between fragrant oak, pine and pistachio trees. Many of the trails are self-guided, such as the short route known as the Roe Deer Trail. The guided walk takes you past an ancient stone wine press and offers a good chance to see roe deer – hence the name. The views are curiously similar to the landscapes of England, with rolling green hills and hand-built stone walls. There are very few intrusions from the modern world. Alternatively, head out on the Orjan Village Trail to explore the orchards and forests. Stopping at a traditional handicraft shop you’ll have the chance to purchase locally-made souvenirs to take home with you. If you want to purchase some soap there’s even a trail for that – the aptly-named Soap Maker’s Trail, which also winds its way through the forest to a soap-manufacturing store. Most atmospheric of them all is the Prophet’s Trail, which not only makes its way through the forest trails but also pays a visit to the church at Mar Elias, where there are some impressive mosaics. Feeling fit? Head a little further and extend your walk to Ajloun Castle itself, to enjoy beautiful views across the densely forested valley. Mujib Biosphere Reserve Lastly is the Mujib Biosphere Reserve , where there are a huge variety of canyon trails – both guided and self-guided. Your only requirement is to choose how you wish to explore the Mujib Gorge, which will largely depend on your fitness levels and your past experience of hiking. Opt for the easier route and you’ll begin at the King’s Highway, following the road along the edge of the gorge as it seeps away from the plateau to the Dead Sea. There are beautiful views over the natural canyon, the lower portion now filled with water. Alternatively, those who have good levels of fitness and experience at longer hikes will enjoy the adventurous route, which involves some canyoning – a great way to cool off from the midday heat! At the upper reaches of the trail the walls are steeply-rising and very narrow, with a stream flowing leisurely between. As you scramble down the gorge, you’ll move between the cool rock pools, sliding down the smooth sandstone between each ledge. You’ll definitely want to be prepared to get wet and wear appropriate shoes and clothes for your journey. Design your own tailor-made Jordan trekking holiday At the end of your adventure, you’ll want to relax tired limbs, and where better than one of the world’s most famous natural spa resorts ? Spend a few days relaxing in one of the luxury hotels along the Dead Sea, indulging in a few treatments and sampling some delicious Jordanian cuisine. Contact our resident expert Catherine and ask any questions about Jordan trekking holidays or tailor-made trips to view Jordan’s natural beauty , and how to create your own bespoke Jordan holiday.