Active Jordan

One of the most magical experiences in Jordan is to get off the beaten track and into the more remote areas where you can meet Bedouins, trek through dramatic scenery and spend evenings underneath incredible starry skies.

1. Days 1-4: Amman

   Your journey begins in Amman, the capital of Jordan. Amman is an excellent base to do trips to Jerash, which boast incredible Roman ruins that are well worth exploring. The Ajloun Forest Reserve also offers some wonderful treks for those who want to dive straight into the adventure. We also recommend a walking tour of the downtown area with your friendly guide, who will be able to point out key locations such as the Roman Theatre and the Citadel.

   Accommodation: Grand Hyatt Amman (3 nights)

2. Days 4-5: Dana Nature Reserve

   Journey on to the Dana Nature Reserve via the King's Highway, where you can stop off to visit historical sites en route. The crusader castle at Kerak, built in 1142, resisted countless attacks, and was said to light a beacon every night to let Jerusalem know that it had not fallen. Other highlights on the King’s Highway include the Mosaic town of Madaba and Mt Nebo, where it is believed Moses was shown the Promised Land. Spend the night deep in the heart of this beautiful scenery.

   Accommodation: Dana Guesthouse (1 night)

3. Days 5-7: Dana Nature Reserve

   The following day you will walk from Dana to Feynan, about a five-hour guided walk through dramatic scenery. Dana Village is located just above the Wadi Dana and is a great example of a traditional Jordanian village. What strikes you about Dana Nature Reserve is its immense tranquillity; you rarely see other travellers and when you get nearer to Feynan there are a number of Bedouin camps where you can stop for a cup of tea before proceeding to the lodge.

   Feynan is lovely eco-lodge, tucked away at the bottom of the Dana Valley. There is no electricity except in the bathrooms and a few of the public areas, and so the lodge is beautifully lit by candles each evening. There is a telescope on the roof for some of the best star-gazing you are ever likely to encounter.

   Accommodation: Feynan Ecolodge (2 nights)

4. Days 7-9: Petra

   The drive from Feynan to Petra winds through stunning scenery. Petra does not disappoint, whether you enter the site by the narrow Siq or trek in through the back route, accompanied by a local guide. You will be staying at the charming Hyatt Zaman. Whilst this is a 15-minute drive from the entrance to Petra, it is one of the most characterful properties in the country and offers panoramic views.  

   Accommodation: Hyatt Zaman (2 nights)

5. Days 9-10: Wadi Rum

   Wadi Rum is a stirking mix of sandstone mountains, dunes and red and gold sand. Enjoy spending the day with a local Bedouin, trekking in the desert and learning about local culture and customs before continuing on to your camp. Take in the incredible sunset and sample delicious traditional Arabic cuisine for dinner before another night of amazing star-gazing.   

   Accommodation: Sun City Camp (1 night)

6. Fly home from Amman

7. Days 10-12: Dead Sea - Jordan Side

   Your final stop just over 3.5 hours’ drive away will be the Dead Sea for some rest and relaxation. The spa treatments are not to be missed, and the sensation of swimming (or rather floating) in the Dead Sea is something not easily forgotten. Spend two nights here unwinding and relaxing after your adventure, until it is time to return home.

   Accommodation: Movenpick Resort and Spa Dead Sea (2 nights)

• Amman Walking Tour

  Visit Amman's Roman Theatre, Byzantine Basilica and the Citadel and Ummayyad Palace during a walking tour of Jordan's capital city. During the tour you will also be able to take in the varying architecture and bustle of Amman's downtown area.

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• Floating in the Dead Sea

  Floating in the Dead Sea is a rather extraordinary experience, and a must-do when visiting Jordan. This is one of the few cases where pictures really can be believed, and it is possible to float practically on the surface of the mineral-rich water.

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• Jeep Ride in Wadi Rum

  Wadi Rum offers stunning vistas, wide open spaces and fascinating natural rock structures. You will have a one-hour jeep ride here to visit the Khazali Canyon, the rock bridges, Lawrence of Arabia's house and ancient Nabataean inscriptions.

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• Jerash

  Jerash is famous for its spectacular Roman ruins. The archaeological site presents you with one of the finest examples of a preserved Roman city anywhere in the Middle East. You will have a half-day tour of Jerash with a private local guide.

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• Trek into Petra

  For your first day in Petra, you will trek in via the back route with a private local guide. Travelling this route allows you to beat the crowds, arriving at the famous Monastery whilst most visitors are still at the start of the site.

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Amman, Dana, Feynan, Petra, Wadi Rum & Dead Sea