History & Heritage Tour of Jordan: From Amman to the Dead Sea - 16 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Amman, Evening Heart of Amman Tour

Welcome to Amman! Upon arrival in the Jordanian capital, a representative will meet you at the airport to assist you with the customs procedures. Then, you'll transfer to your hotel, where you can freshen up before joining your private guide for a tour of some of the city's historic areas. Start in the downtown core, where you can walk through different souks in search of local delights and souvenirs. Listen to the lively sounds of bargaining and smell the enticing scents of Jordanian cuisine while you follow your guide down the labyrinthine alleys.

Next, wander down Rainbow Street, a charming cobblestone lane lined with colorful storefronts, art galleries, and cozy cafés. Admire the striking murals and graffiti adorning the walls, showcasing the city's dynamic street art scene as you pop in and out of the shops. Proceed to Jabal al-Weibdeh, one of the oldest residential areas in Amman, to discover the restored traditional houses housing art galleries, boutiques, and eateries. Stop for a cup of Arabic coffee or mint tea and a bite to eat before returning to your hotel to fight off jet lag.

Day 2: Amman Half-Day Heritage Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide for another city tour. It starts at the Jordan Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts from prehistoric to ancient civilizations, such as the Nabataeans and Romans. Browse the engaging exhibits, showcasing items like intricately carved sarcophagi, detailed mosaics, and the famous Dead Sea Scrolls. Then, continue to the nearby Grand Husseini Mosque and admire the striking white and blue domes. Step inside to see the colorful mosaic tiles, traditional Islamic art, and intricate calligraphy lining the walls before walking to Souq el-Bukharia and Souq al-Sukar.

Shop for souvenirs, fresh produce, and local delights like nuts and spices, then move on to the Roman Theatre of Amman, which dates back to the second century. After a lunch break at Hashem Restaurant, known for its delicious hummus and falafel, you'll transfer to King Abdullah I Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the country. Look up at the blue mosaic dome and minarets, then enter to see the marble flooring, ornate chandeliers, and intricate paintings. End the tour at the on-site Islamic Museum, which houses artifacts, personal artifacts, and photos of the late king.

Day 3: Transfer to Umm Qais via Countryside Farm & Tabqat Fahel

Start your day with a 45-minute transfer north to the hillside town of As-Salt to visit a local farm. Here, you'll follow along with a local woman as she teaches you to make homemade jam with flavors like hibiscus and oregano, depending on the season, and jameed, traditional dried yogurt. Sample these delicacies and purchase a jar or two to bring home, then continue your journey 1.5 hours north to Tabqat Fahel, better known by its ancient name, Pella.

Wander down colonnaded streets adorned with mosaics to see the remnants of city walls, temples, theaters, and churches from the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Back in the car, your final stop is Umm Qais, a charming town that overlooks the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee. After the one-hour drive, meet your guide for a tour of the ruins of Gadara, an ancient city founded during the Hellenistic period. Learn about the city's rich history while you follow your guide down the colonnade-lined streets and look out at remnants of theaters, baths, and homes.

Day 4: Transfer to Ajloun via Jerash, Guided Soap House Trail Trek

After just one night in Umm Qais, it's time to hit the road again on a one-hour transfer south to the small city of Ajloun in Jordan's fertile highlands. On the way, stop in Jerash, home to one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world. Enter the archaeological site through the imposing Hadrian's Arch and stroll down the restored colonnaded streets past landmarks like the Oval Plaza, the Temple of Artemis, and the South Theater, where performances are still held. When you arrive in Ajloun, check into your hotel and change into your hiking gear for a three-hour trek along the Soap House Trail.

Start at the visitor center in the Ajloun Forest Reserve and follow your guide through the dense forest, passing remnants of traditional soap-making workshops, where local artisans once crafted olive oil soap using age-old techniques. Stop at the ruins of a wine press and the oldest strawberry tree in the reserve as you descend into the valley. Enjoy views of the verdant valleys, rolling hillsides, and distant villages from Eagle's Viewpoint, then end the hike at Ajloun Soap House to learn more about the traditional soap-making process and purchase your own soap to take home before transferring back to your hotel.

Day 5: Transfer to Azraq, Visit the Azraq Wetland Reserve, Bike Tour

Get ready for another transfer; this time, it's two hours southeast to the small town of Azraq, known for its thriving wetland reserve that attracts diverse wildlife. When you arrive, hit the ground running with a visit to the Azraq Wetland Reserve. Follow your guide down the 0.93-mile (1.5 km) Marsh Trail in search of wildlife. Stop at scenic viewpoints overlooking the marshes and pools where migratory birds like raptors, eagles, and warblers gather in abundance. You may also spot mammals such as sand cats, red foxes, hedgehogs, and even buffalo.

As you walk, your guide will share insights into the reserve's ecological significance, wildlife, and conservation efforts before you switch to a bike tour of the area. Pedal across the arid desert landscape to the trails around the reserve. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, like ducks and waterfowl, as you continue to Qa'a al-Azraq, a large mud flat dotted with salt-encrusted depressions and dried lake beds. Now that you've worked up an appetite, it's time to sit down for a meal with a local Druze family. When you're done, transfer back to your hotel to rest after your action-packed day. 

Day 6: Transfer to Amman via the Desert Castles Loop

Today, you return to Amman on a 1.5-hour transfer west along the Desert Castles Loop, taking you past several castles and archaeological sites along the way. Stop at Qasr al-Azraq first, a historic fortress originally constructed around 300 CE by the Romans but later used and rebuilt by the Umayyads and Ayyubids. Step inside and wander through the interior rooms, courtyards, and towers that were once the headquarters of T.E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt.

Continue to Qasr al-Harranah, which dates back to the early eighth century and features a blend of Roman and Byzantine architectural influences. Discover the well-preserved interior and museum that displays artifacts and exhibits related to the castle's role in historical events. Your last stop before Amman is the UNESCO-listed Quseir 'Amra, known for its well-preserved frescoes and unique architecture that combines elements of a fortress, residence, and bathhouse. 

Day 7: Transfer to Madaba via Mount Nebo, Guided City Tour

Bid farewell to Amman again as you continue your journey south with a 45-minute transfer to Madaba, often called the "City of Mosaics" for its plentiful ancient mosaic floors and artworks. On the way, stop at Mount Nebo, an elevated ridge of the Abarim range said to be where Moses took in the view of the Promised Land. Follow in his footsteps and look out over the Dead Sea and beyond before making your way to the Memorial Church of Moses, which houses excavated relics from the region and preserved Byzantine mosaics depicting biblical scenes, landscapes, and wildlife.

Back in the car, complete the drive to Madaba and join your guide for a private tour of the city, starting at St. George's Greek Orthodox Church. Step inside the ancient church to see the famous Madaba Map, an intricate mosaic floor map depicting the Holy Land. Look for more mosaics at the Madaba Archaeological Park, home to the remnants of Byzantine churches and mosaic floors dating back to the fifth to seventh centuries CE. Then, end the tour at the Church of the Martyrs, built in the sixth century to commemorate the Christian martyrs who died for their faith.

Day 8: Transfer to Dana via Kerak Castle, Hike the Nawatef Trail

Trade the City of Mosaics for the charming village of Dana, nestled within the lush Dana Biosphere Reserve. Break up the two-hour transfer south with a stop at Kerak Castle, an imposing Crusader fortress built in the 12th century. Wander through the well-preserved halls, chambers, and corridors, then head up to the ramparts for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Stop at the on-site Kerak Archaeological Museum to peruse the array of artifacts ranging from Crusader weapons and armor to everyday items used by the castle's residents. 

After exploring the castle, complete the drive to your hotel in Dana, where you can check in and change into your hiking gear. Then, join your guide for a 1.2-mile (2 km) trek down Nawatef Trail through Jordan's largest nature reserve. As you navigate the trail, you'll come across viewpoints of towering cliffs, ancient sandstone formations, and traditional Bedouin camps. At the end of the trail, ancient ruins of a Nabataean civilization await, offering you a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage before you transfer back to your hotel to relax.

Day 9: Spend the Day With Dana's Locals

Dive deeper into Jordan's rich history and heritage today with the Dana Cooperative, a community-based organization with over 100 Bedouin families that aims to preserve the community's distinctive qualities and support sustainable development. You'll spend the day with some of these families, who were originally from the Ata'ta tribe before becoming Bedouin farmers. Learn about their traditional way of life by watching or joining in on daily activities like weaving, cooking, tending to livestock, or harvesting fresh produce and medicinal herbs.

Sit down for lunch in one of the family's homes and engage in conversations about their history and customs. After lunch, stroll through the village to see the charming stone houses, terraced gardens, and the rare plants and animals in the surrounding reserve. As your time with the people of Dana draws to an end, thank them for their time and warm welcome before transferring back to your hotel.

Day 10: Hike the Shaq al-Reesh Trail, Transfer to Petra

Lace up your hiking boots this morning and follow your private guide down the 4.9-mile (8 km) Shaq al-Reesh Trail in the Dana Biosphere Reserve. This circular trail will take you through a dramatic terrain of rugged cliffs, deep gorges, and expansive plateaus, so if you have a fear of heights, you might want to sit this one out.

As you traverse the path, you'll encounter rare and endemic flora and fauna that thrive in this protected area. Stop at different viewpoints along the way to look out at the desert and Great Rift Valley. After four hours on the trail, meet your driver for a one-hour transfer south to the UNESCO-listed Petra, where you'll settle into your hotel for the evening. 

Day 11: Self-Guided Tour of UNESCO-listed Petra

Spend a full day exploring Petra, often called the "Rose City," at your own pace. Enter the archaeological site through the Siq, a narrow canyon flanked by towering cliffs that leads to the iconic Treasury. Standing at 131 feet (40 m), the grand facade adorned with columns, statues, and elaborate details is carved out of a single block of red sandstone rock. Continue to the High Place of Sacrifice, which was used for religious ceremonies and animal sacrifices conducted to honor the gods. Although climbing the steep, ancient staircase can be challenging, the panoramic view of Petra at the top will be worth it. 

After admiring the view, return to the bottom of the cliff to discover more of the site, including the Royal Tombs, a Roman theater, and the Monastery, which is the largest standing monument at 148 feet (45 m) tall and 160 feet (50 m) wide. If you're not too tired, you can tackle the 850 rock-cut steps to the Monastery's entrance, where you'll be greeted by the imposing facade featuring intricately carved columns and reliefs. Step inside to explore the cavernous chamber with traces of ancient frescoes, then enjoy uninterrupted views over this New Wonder of the World before exiting through the Siq.

Day 12: Back Door Hike to Petra's Monastery, Transfer to Wadi Rum

If you didn't make it to Petra's Monastery yesterday, now's your chance. Instead of walking through the archaeological site, your guide will drive you to a lesser-known "back door" trail through the mountains to get to the monument. This trail is less frequented than the main path, making it a quieter and more immersive journey into the site's ancient history and natural landscapes. Along the way, enjoy glimpses of Petra's sandstone cliffs and distinct rock formations.

After two hours or so, you'll reach the monastery, where you'll part ways with your guide. Marvel at the Monastery's sheer size—at 148 feet (45 m) tall and 160 feet (50 m) wide, it's Petra's largest structure. When you're ready, descend the 850 steps to the archaeological site and head to one of the cafés to rest your feet and grab a bite to eat. Once you're refueled, it's time to transfer 1.5 hours south to Wadi Rum, an expanse of desert dubbed the "Valley of the Moon" by T.E. Lawrence (better known as Lawrence of Arabia).

When you arrive, meet your guide and transfer to a Bedouin camp, where you'll learn about the locals' way of life and help cook dinner over the fire. In the evening, set off on a sunset camel ride to Umm Mughur or Umm Sabatah, towering rock formations perfect for watching the day turn to night. Sit down on top of the rocks and enjoy a snack and Bedouin tea while the sky comes alive in vibrant hues of red and orange. Before it gets too dark, mount your camel again and return to camp to settle into your cozy wool tent for the night. 

Day 13: Jeep Tour in Wadi Rum, Optional Hike, Camel Ride

Start your day with a hot-air balloon ride over Wadi Rum's otherworldly landscape if the weather conditions are right; just be sure to arrange this excursion at least two days in advance. Then, venture out on another Jeep tour across the desert, starting at the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, a towering rock formation named after T.E. Lawrence's famous book of the same name. After taking in the beauty of the geological wonder, explore the remains of a Nabataean temple, then wander through a narrow canyon to marvel at the natural fissures and Thamudic inscriptions etched into the rocks.

The adventure continues with a visit to two impressive rock bridges and Lawrence's Castle, where the legendary British officer lived during the Arab Revolt. End the tour with a stop at another collection of Thamudic inscriptions depicting animals, hunting scenes, and the daily life of the Thamud tribe. If you want to continue exploring, set off on a three-hour hike with a Bedouin guide. Those who are too tired can return to camp to rest and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, go on another camel ride for one last look at the red sand dunes, towering rock formations, and ancient valleys.

Day 14: Transfer to the Dead Sea, Visit the Dead Sea Museum & Lot's Cave

Head to your final destination in Jordan today: the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. After the 4-5-hour transfer, check into your hotel, then make your way to the Dead Sea Museum with your guide to learn about the sea's formation, its hypersaline nature, and the health benefits associated with its mineral-rich waters and mud. You'll also discover the history and cultural significance of the area, where countless ancient civilizations once thrived along the salty shores.

After exploring the museum, walk uphill to the biblical site of Lot's Cave, believed to be where Lot and his daughters sought shelter after fleeing the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. From the top of the hill, enjoy panoramic views of the Dead Sea, then step inside the cave to see the remnants of ancient tombs, inscriptions, and artifacts. When you're done, stroll back down the hill and go for a dip on your own in the sea. The water's high salt content leaves you weightless and relaxed, so you can spend the rest of the afternoon floating, treating yourself to a mud mask, and then staying to watch the sunset.

Day 15: Free Day at the Dead Sea or Explore the Mujib Nature Reserve

Today is free for you to relax in and around the shimmering Dead Sea. Float in the mineral-rich waters, enjoy another mud mask, or just soak up the sun on the shores. If you get tired of the salty water, rinse off and take a dip in the hotel's pool. Those who want a more active day can head to the Mujib Nature Reserve, just 30 minutes away. Known as the "Grand Canyon of Jordan," the reserve is home to dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, hidden waterfalls, and the flowing Mujib River. Choose from an array of trails to discover the natural landscapes and wildlife like ibex and birds of prey.

Day 16: Visit the Ma'in Hot Springs, Transfer to Amman, Depart

Even though your 16-day history and heritage tour of Jordan is drawing to a close today, you have time for a visit to the nearby Ma'in Hot Springs, accessible for free through a public entrance or through a resort for an additional charge, giving you access to its facilities. Either way, you're sure to enjoy your time in the mineral-rich water cascading down from the surrounding cliffs in picturesque waterfalls. Soak in the warm pools surrounded by lush greenery and the tranquil sound of flowing water. When you're thoroughly relaxed, dry off and transfer one hour back to Amman for your flight home. Safe travels!