Ultimate Israel and Jordan
Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Ngeve Desert, Petra & AmmanDiscover the wonders of Israel and Jordan on a trip that combines important religious sites, inspiring landscapes, magical desert scenery and the saline waters of the Dead Sea, in an area steeped in history, culture and fabulous cuisine. Deepen your knowledge and understanding of the Middle East as you explore the incredible ruins of Petra, discover ancient monuments, relics and holy sites, float on mineral-rich waters and relax on a desert adventure.
At a glance
Immerse yourself in buzzing Tel Aviv, a fabulous blend of ancient history and compelling modernity. With glorious beaches, excellent museums, Bauhaus architecture, and a chic café culture, this is a superb city to explore.
Discover the holy sites of Old City Jerusalem on a guided walking tour, taking in the Wailing Wall, Dome of the Rock, and Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Unwind in the Negev Desert with a stay at the luxurious Six Senses Shahrut. With unbeatable stargazing, camel safaris, and jeep tours, this is a great place to chill out and soak up the amazing desert landscapes.
Explore the UNESCO-listed red rose city of Petra. Hand-carved from rock, this iconic site is a must for anyone interested in history and architecture. There’s also the opportunity to see the Treasury and Siq, lit by candlelight.
Journey highlights
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Immerse yourself in buzzing Tel Aviv, a fabulous blend of ancient history and compelling modernity. With glorious beaches, excellent museums, Bauhaus architecture, and a chic café culture, this is a superb city to explore.
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Discover the holy sites of Old City Jerusalem on a guided walking tour, taking in the Wailing Wall, Dome of the Rock, and Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
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Unwind in the Negev Desert with a stay at the luxurious Six Senses Shahrut. With unbeatable stargazing, camel safaris, and jeep tours, this is a great place to chill out and soak up the amazing desert landscapes.
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Explore the UNESCO-listed red rose city of Petra. Hand-carved from rock, this iconic site is a must for anyone interested in history and architecture. There’s also the opportunity to see the Treasury and Siq, lit by candlelight.
- Exceptional itinerary:A harmonious blend of authenticity and superlative luxury, our Exceptional Journeys are designed for the discerning traveller, providing unparalleled insider access and exclusive luxury private experiences
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Expert who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
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- F
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- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
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The best time to visit climate-wise is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the daytime temperatures aren't too extreme. April is probably the best month, when temperatures are warm and wildflowers are in bloom.
Itinerary
Flight to Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv
A fabulous blend of the contemporary, the historic and the ancient, Tel Aviv is a great place in which to begin this superb tour of Israel and Jordan. On your arrival you will be taken to your base for the following three nights, The Jaffa Hotel. A stylish fusion of 19th century majesty and contemporary sophistication, The Jaffa occupies a delightful spot in the ancient port of Jaffa. Over time, this historic city has been absorbed into the modern city of Tel Aviv, creating a wonderful contrast between old and new landmarks and attractions.
During your stay, you will enjoy a private guided tour of the city, which takes in both Tel Aviv and the ancient port of Jaffa. Highlights of modern Tel Aviv include the UNESCO-listed Bauhaus architecture, the sensory treat of Carmel Food Market, the charming promenade lined with stylish cafés, as well as several first-rate museums. These include Beit Hatfutsot: The Museum of the Jewish People. This is a must for those interested in Jewish history and charts the Jewish Diaspora over the last 2,500 years. Also of note are the Palmach Museum, documenting the experiences of 10 Israeli soldiers, whose unit fought in both the Second World War and 1948 War of Independence and Independence Hall. This is where David Ben-Guiron signed the Declaration of Independence in 1948, signifying the creation of the modern state of Israel.
By contrast, a wander around the historic area of Jaffa includes more ancient highlights such as the old port and the Artists’ Quarter, a charming maze of centuries-old narrow cobbled streets, now home to artists, artisans, shops, and cafés.
You will also enjoy a day of leisure in this cosmopolitan city. It is a lovely place to relax with 14km of Mediterranean coastline, a relaxed beach culture and a glorious promenade lined with cafés, restaurants, and boutiques.
Jerusalem
From the country’s second city, you now head to Israel’s first city, Jerusalem. Your base for the following three nights is the Mamilla Hotel. A haven of luxury, the Mamilla echoes the city itself, in blending historic Ottoman stone walls with stylish contemporary interiors. Located in the buzzing district of Mamilla, the hotel offers panoramic views of the Old City from the al fresco rooftop restaurant.
Resplendent with significant religious sites, you will enjoy a private guided walking tour of the Old City, taking in highlights that include the Wailing Wall, the Dome of the Rock, and the Walk of the Cross (Via Dolorosa) leading to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This holy site is believed to be where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. Other attractions include the Tower of David, the citadel built by King David and Mount Zion. Located close to Zion Gate, just outside the Old City, Mount Zion is home to the Tomb of David, the Room of the Last Supper, and the Church of the Dormition.
Jerusalem also has some superb museums to explore including the Israel Museum, where you can see the Dead Sea Scrolls, the earliest manuscript of the Hebrew Bible and the Ammunition Hill Memorial and Museum, dedicated to those who died during the Six-Day War in 1967. We would also recommend a visit to Yad Vashem, the memorial for the Jewish victims of the Holocaust. The site includes the Children's Memorial, the Hall of Remembrance, the Museum of Holocaust Art, and outdoor commemorative sites such as the Valley of the Communities.
During your stay, you will also enjoy a specialist tour of the culinary heaven, Machane Yehuda Market. Boasting everything from street food stalls to fine dining eateries, this is a fabulous experience. You will meet the stallholders, learn about their produce, and taste some of the delicious cuisine on offer, from hummus to havla.
On your final full day in Jerusalem, you will be collected from the hotel by your driver guide to visit Masada, the Dead Sea, and the Qumran Caves. Built by King Herod around 30 BC, the Masada Fortress, perched high upon a mountain plateau, was the last stronghold of the Zealots against the Romans in AD 70. While the fit and active may wish to hike to the top via Snake Pass, there is a cable car to whisk you up to the top of the fortress. There you can explore the ruins which include a Roman-style bathhouse with mosaic floors and take in the magnificent views across the valley to the Dead Sea.
You will then enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience of floating on the saline waters of the Dead Sea. At 400m below sea level, the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea are the lowest point on the planet and the lake waters have been praised for their therapeutic qualities since the time of King Herod over 2,000 years ago. From here, you will visit the Qumran Caves, site of one of the 20th century’s most significant archaeological discoveries, the Dead Sea Scrolls, the earliest manuscript of the Hebrew Bible.
Negev Desert
After the visit to Jerusalem, there’s a chance to unwind amid the beautiful and other-worldly landscapes of the Negev Desert. The wonderful Six Senses Shaharut is your base for three nights of magical desert adventure. This luxurious and welcoming property overlooks the magnificent Arava Valley. The hospitality, the spa, the stargazing, and the views ensure a memorable stay.
During your time in the desert, you can choose from a range of leisurely activities such as birdwatching and winery visits, to more active pursuits including camel safaris and jeep tours to the lunar landscape of the Ramon Crater. The largest erosion crater in the world, your vehicle makes a thrilling descent from the Atzmaut Ascent viewpoint into the depths of this 220-million-year-old landform.
Petra
On leaving the Negev Desert, you will cross the border at Aqaba for your transfer to the bucket list destination of Petra. For two nights, your base will be the Movenpick Resort Hotel, which is perfectly placed opposite the entrance to the UNESCO-listed archaeological park.
Before viewing the main attraction, you will enjoy a trip to Little Petra, just north of the town. This site is also known as Siq al-Barid, which translates as ‘cold canyon,’ as the narrow gorge receives little sunlight. Around 400m long, the gorge contains several impressive buildings, dating from around the 1st century AD, carved into the rockface. Chief among these is the Painted House, which still displays the faded Nabataean frescos of birds and flowers. For those climbing to the top of the gorge, there are sweeping panoramic views across the valley.
Petra, itself is Jordan’s main attraction and your private guided tour will not disappoint. To reach the main archaeological complex involves walking through the Siq, a narrow gorge that cuts through the red rose rock. As you make your way along, you are suddenly presented with the jaw-dropping sight of the Treasury, carved into the rosy rockface. This is the start point for exploring the amazing carved temples and buildings of the site, accompanied by your informative guide.
We would also recommend a visit to the Monastery. While this involves climbing up 1,000 or so steps, it allows you to properly examine the carved façade, and take in the majestic views across Wadi Araba, Israel, and the Palestinian territories. Staying opposite the archaeological park, also means you can easily experience the stunning spectacle of the Siq and Treasury lit by thousands of candles on a night visit to Petra.
Amman
The following morning you will make the journey to Amman, along the way stopping to see the mosaics of Madaba. The mosaics feature a map of the Holy Land and once formed the floor of a Byzantine Church, built around 560 AD. You will also visit Mount Nebo, where Moses was shown the Promised Land and if time permits, there will also be a stop to see either Shobak or Kerak Castle.
On your arrival in Amman, you will be taken to your hotel for your final night in Jordan, the Grand Hyatt. This comfortable hotel is centrally located, with seven restaurants and bars, indoor and outdoor pools, along with a spa using products from the Dead Sea.
Before heading home, you will enjoy a private guided walking tour of the city’s highlights. These include the Citadel, home to a Byzantine Church, the temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace, built between the 7th and 8th centuries. You will also visit the imposing Roman Amphitheater, which could seat up to 6,000 spectators. Fans of Roman history may also wish to visit Jerash, just north of the city, to see some of the world’s best-preserved Roman ruins.
At the end of this captivating and enthralling trip, you will be taken to Amman Airport to begin the journey home.
Flight from Amman
Call us on 858 523 9000 to start planning your holiday.
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 2024 | $19,900 | $5,000 | plan your trip |
| May 2024 | $16,900 | $4,200 | plan your trip |
| June 2024 | $16,900 | $4,200 | plan your trip |
| July 2024 | $16,900 | $4,200 | plan your trip |
| August 2024 | $16,900 | $4,200 | plan your trip |
| September 2024 | $22,800 | $5,700 | plan your trip |
| October 2024 | $22,800 | $5,700 | plan your trip |
| November 2024 | $22,800 | $5,700 | plan your trip |
| December 2024 | $22,800 | $5,700 | plan your trip |
| January 2025 | $22,800 | $5,700 | plan your trip |
| February 2025 | $22,800 | $5,700 | plan your trip |
| March 2025 | $22,800 | $5,700 | plan your trip |
-
April 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$19,900
Deposit from*$5,000
-
May 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$16,900
Deposit from*$4,200
-
June 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$16,900
Deposit from*$4,200
-
July 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$16,900
Deposit from*$4,200
-
August 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$16,900
Deposit from*$4,200
-
September 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,800
Deposit from*$5,700
-
October 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,800
Deposit from*$5,700
-
November 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,800
Deposit from*$5,700
-
December 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,800
Deposit from*$5,700
-
January 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,800
Deposit from*$5,700
-
February 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,800
Deposit from*$5,700
-
March 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,800
Deposit from*$5,700
- plan your trip
Your Hotels
When to visit
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
The best time to visit climate-wise is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the daytime temperatures aren't too extreme. April is probably the best month, when temperatures are warm and wildflowers are in bloom.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you. Call us on 858 523 9000 to start planning your vacation.
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