Uncover Jordan: Deserts, Petra & The Dead Sea
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Jordan with the "Uncover Jordan: Deserts, Petra & The Dead Sea" tour. This journey takes you from the ancient Roman ruins of Jerash to the iconic sandstone city of Petra, where you'll hike the back door trail from Little Petra. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Wadi Rum's desert landscape from a private tented camp, accessible by 4x4, and enjoy a night walk under the stars. Relax in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea and explore the vibrant city of Aqaba on the Red Sea. With guided visits, community lunches, and free time to explore, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and delicious meals as you discover the wonders of Jordan. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Amman/Petra
Location: Amman, Jerash, Petra
Accommodation Name: Nomads Petra hotel
Arrival day. Attend a morning welcome meeting in Amman before departing directly for the remarkably well-preserved Roman archaeological site of Jerash. Enjoy a 3-hour guided tour of the site and learn more about the history of this architectural marvel as you walk through the various public squares and plazas. Continue onwards to Petra where you will have free time to get settled in before dinner on your own. ...more ...less
Additional Information: All arrival flights should land no later than 6:00 am. Please note that pre-nights are highly recommended to ensure your timely arrival for a 9:00am Welcome Meeting and departure from Amman.
ACTIVITY: Today, the adventure begins. Be sure to arrive in time to meet your group. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your trip.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Take a step back in time visiting Jerash, one of the most well-preserved Roman sites outside of Italy. Wander amid its paved and colonnaded streets, soaring hilltop temples, handsome theatres, spacious public squares and plazas, baths, fountains, and city walls pierced by towers and gates – all in exceptional condition.
FREE TIME: EVENING Wadi Musa is the closest town to Petra. Enjoy free time here on your own to get settled and explore a bit.
ACTIVITY: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
Day 2: Petra
Location: Petra
Accommodation Name: Nomads Petra hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today the group will hike from Little Petra along the ancient backdoor trail to the iconic masterpiece of Petra. The trail comes out near the Monastery where you can enjoy a boxed lunch overlooking the image most people come to Jordan searching for. Drive back to the hotel and have a free rest of the day to explore on your own or relax on the rooftop as the sun goes down past the horizon.
ACTIVITY: Explore the narrow alleyway with tall cliff walls and carved rock of Little Petra, which is similar to its larger namesake. Just 9km (5.6 mi) from Wadi Musa, it's worth the visit.
ACTIVITY: Start today's hike along the back door trail to Petra. You'll visit the often overlooked, but unique and charming Little Petra and then embark along the ancient trail that leads to the back entry into Petra via the Monastery. Sit down for a picnic lunch overlooking the splendor before exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wind through the Siq, a narrow, 1km-long gorge flanked by these soaring sandstone walls standing 80m-high and catch a glimpse of this magnificent creation, the famed treasury of Petra.
Explore in depth with your CEO and get a brief history of the city, one of the greatest attractions in the Middle East. The Nabateans carved this capital from the living rock of the surrounding mountains in Petra. Visit monuments that include the Pharaoh's Castle, the triumphal arch, the amphitheatre, and the monastery.
FREE TIME: EVENING After a full day of exploring Petra and the surroundings, you will have free time back in Wadi Musa at the hotel. Choose to grab a few drinks at a nearby rooftop and find a local spot for dinner.
Day 3: Petra/Wadi Rum
Location: Petra, Wadi Rum
Accommodation Name: Harb Eco Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
You’re in for an unforgettable experience on a sunrise visit to Petra to witness this famous archaeological site as the morning light crests over the sandstone cliffs. Travel back to the hotel for breakfast and then depart for the ‘Valley of the Moon’ or more commonly known as Wadi Rum. Upon arrival hop on a 4x4 and ride deep into the natural beauty and unique landscape of red sand dunes to reach your private camp amid the dunes. Take some time to get settled here and have a group dinner at camp before a walking tour for some stargazing in a sky with very little light pollution. An epic day for sure!
ACTIVITY: Visit Petra one last time for an impressive sight of sunrise above The Treasury. Truly the best time to see Petra in all its glory, you will experience far fewer visitors at this early hour. Sit down, take it all in, and feel how the string of time pulls thinner while the sun lights up the sandstone cliffs in an ethereal glow.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Head deep into the desert by 4x4 and enjoy the amazing natural beauty and unique landscape on this unforgettable drive. Along the way drive up red sand dunes, view stunning rock formations, and visit ancient sites to view rock art and inscriptions.
ACTIVITY: Walk out into the desert from Wadi Rum and search for stars as the sun goes down and full darkness reveals just how many were there all along.
Day 4: Wadi Rum/Aqaba
Location: Wadi Rum, Aqaba
Accommodation Name: My Luxury Hotel Aqaba
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast leave the solitude of the desert for a more lively time in Aqaba on the Red Sea. Upon arrival, the day is yours to do as you please. Choose to book a boat ride with lunch and snorkelling in the marine-rich waters of the Dead Sea, or stay on land and peruse the Marina Village, or the Aqaba Local Market. Dinner this evening is on your own, but the nightlife in Aqaba is something to consider trying out.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
FREE TIME: HALF DAY Upon arrival to Aqaba there will be free time to enjoy all that the Red Sea has to offer. Choose to book a 4-hour boat ride including lunch and snorkelling gear. Or you could visit the local market for some local specialty snacks, and the Marina Village with all of its boutique shops. No matter what, the choice is yours.
Day 5: Aqaba
Location: Aqaba
Accommodation Name: My Luxury Hotel Aqaba
Meals Included: Breakfast
Get out there and fully immerse yourself in the fun experiences Aqaba has to offer its visitors. Choose to purchase a full-day beach club pass which includes lunch and will let you be as relaxed as can be on the sand, the whole day belongs to you. You can also visit the sites in town that you didn’t get a chance to check out yesterday. Dinner is wherever you please, but a nearby restaurant with some live music and a fun local crowd sounds like a good idea!
FREE TIME: FULL DAY The full day is free to do as you choose in the gorgeous seaside town of Aqaba. Options include hanging out by the hotel pool, visiting the market or Marina Village, or you can book the full--day Beach Club Pass with inclusive lunch and really go all out for your final free day in Aqaba.
ACTIVITY: Whether it’s a a local place with live music or a bonfire on the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.
Day 6: Aqaba/Mādabā
Location: Aqaba, Dead Sea, Madaba
Accommodation Name: Mariam Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Leave Aqaba and the Red Sea behind today and travel to Madaba and the salty waters of the Dead Sea. Along the way make a stop for a traditional Jordanian meal at the G Adventures-supported Al Safi Kitchen working to create a sustainable future for community members near the Dead Sea. Then, it’s the moment many have been waiting for, a soak and float in the healing waters of the sea. Search for salt chunks bobbing nearby and rub the medicinal mud on your skin. Visit St George Church next, where you will see some of the finest Byzantine mosaics in the world. Spend a free evening in Madaba before an optional dinner with the group
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. There will be a stop along the way for lunch at a G Adventures-supported initiative.
ACTIVITY: Stop for lunch at Al Safi Kitchen to enjoy a traditional Jordanian meal. Take a tour of the grounds, taste a delicious meal with the freshest ingredients from Safi’s farms, and learn about how this nonprofit is working to create a sustainable future for community members near the Dead Sea. The mission of the company is to raise awareness about the importance of cultural heritage and natural resources of the area. They also offer equal job opportunities for all members of the local community.
ACTIVITY: Discover the legendary healing qualities of the Dead Sea, famous for its unique mineral makeup and salinity. Spot salt chunks drifting by like icebergs on the water’s surface. Take a dip yourself and float like a buoy or cover yourself in the mud along the shore, believed to have medicinal and therapeutic benefits. There are showers nearby to wash off after.
ACTIVITY: Explore Madaba’s long history on this guided tour, including its role as the centre of early Christianity. See some of the finest Byzantine mosaics in the world, including the famous sixth-century mosaic map of the Middle East. Tour churches, the Archaeological Park, and the local museum that's housed in several old Madaba residences.
Day 7: Mādabā
Location: Madaba
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
Please note that while this itinerary ends at the finishing point hotel in Madaba, there are taxis/shuttle services available to book back to Amman. Please contact one of our GCOs for more details.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (5 nts), Desert Tented Camp (1 nt). -
G for Good Moment
Enjoy a community lunch at Al Safi in the Jordan Valley.
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Welcome Moment
Participate in an arrival day and morning welcome meeting.
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First Night Out Moment
Connect with new friends on your first night out.
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Big Night Out Moment
Experience a memorable night out in Aqaba.
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Jerash Guided Visit
Explore the remarkably well-preserved Roman archaeological site of Jerash with a guide.
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Little Petra and Hike to Petra
Visit Little Petra and hike along the back door trail to Petra with a guided visit.
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Sunrise Visit to Petra
Witness the stunning sunrise over Petra.
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4x4 Wadi Rum Desert Trip
Embark on a 4x4 trip through the Wadi Rum desert.
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Night Walk in Wadi Rum
Enjoy a night walk in the Wadi Rum desert.
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Dead Sea Visit
Float in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea.
What's Not Included
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Meals Not Included
Meals are generally not included when there is a choice of eating options to give you maximum flexibility.
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Single Supplement
Solo travelers are paired in shared accommodation and do not pay a single supplement.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in hotels for 5 nights and experience a unique night in a desert tented camp in Wadi Rum, offering a blend of modern comfort and traditional charm.
Transport
Private vehicle, walking, 4x4.
Meals Included
6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with private vehicles, enjoy scenic walks, and embark on thrilling 4x4 adventures, ensuring a seamless and exciting journey through Jordan's stunning landscapes.
Local Dress
While visiting mosques and other religious monuments you should dress modestly, cover your shoulders and you shouldn't wear short shorts or skirts. Outside of capital cities and the more touristic centres, local dress is often more conservative and as a matter of respect we ask that both men and women are aware of this and recommend loose-fitting clothes with your shoulders covered. Ask your CEO for more specific advice. ...more ...less
Important Notes
RAMADAN
According to the lunar cycle, Ramadan will fall between Feb 28th - Mar 29th 2025, and Feb 17th - Mar 19th 2026. Please note that Ramadan is a month of fasting observed by Muslims throughout the world, during which time the followers of Islam should not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. There may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules during Ramadan, but generally our tours still operate effectively during this period and food is available to non-Muslims throughout the day. It is very important to display increased cultural sensitivity during Ramadan. Please wear loose fitting clothes, that cover knees and shoulders, and try to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public out of respect for those who can't at that time.
TIPPING NOTE:
Tipping is a way of life in the Middle East. Locals themselves will usually tip anyone who provides them with services. Due to this expectation, your CEO will collect a Tipping Kitty at the start of the tour. For more details see the Tipping section below.
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Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
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About Accommodation
On this trip you can expect to stay in small local hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. ...more ...less
What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
During the tour, you will stay in hotels for 5 nights and spend 1 night in a private tented desert camp in Wadi Rum.
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What activities are included in the Wadi Rum desert experience?
In Wadi Rum, you will embark on a 4x4 trip through the desert, enjoy a group dinner at the camp, and participate in a night walk for stargazing.
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What is the significance of the visit to Al Safi Kitchen?
The visit to Al Safi Kitchen includes enjoying a traditional Jordanian meal and learning about the nonprofit's efforts to create a sustainable future for community members near the Dead Sea.
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What can I expect during the visit to Petra?
You will hike from Little Petra along the backdoor trail to Petra, visit the Monastery, and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Treasury, Pharaoh's Castle, and the amphitheatre.
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What is the group size for this tour?
The tour has a maximum group size of 16, with an average of 12 participants.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner. Meals are generally not included when there is a choice of eating options to give you maximum flexibility.
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What should I wear when visiting religious sites in Jordan?
When visiting mosques and other religious monuments, you should dress modestly, covering your shoulders and avoiding short shorts or skirts. Loose-fitting clothes with covered shoulders are recommended.
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What is the transportation like during the tour?
Transportation during the tour includes private vehicles, walking, and 4x4 rides, ensuring comfort and convenience between destinations and activities.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Uncover Jordan: Deserts, Petra & The Dead Sea
7 Days Starting in Amman, Jordan and ending in Madaba, Jordan
Visiting: Amman, Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba, Dead Sea, Madaba
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26205
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
18-39
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
