Jordan's Natural Wonders: Amman, Dana, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba & Dead Sea - 11 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Amman, Self-Guided Tour of the Capital

Welcome to Jordan! Upon arrival at the Queen Alia International Airport, you'll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel in the capital. The nation's largest city, Amman, has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and is full of cultural and historic highlights. When you're ready, venture out to explore the area on your own. A good place to start is Amman Citadel, perched atop one of the city's seven hills. Wander through the archaeological site to discover the ruins of the Temple of Hercules, Umayyad Palace, and a Byzantine church.

After enjoying panoramic views of the city, continue to the Jordan Museum, home to artifacts spanning Jordan's prehistoric, ancient, and modern eras. Don't miss highlights like the Dead Sea Scrolls, which are among the oldest known religious manuscripts, and the Ain Ghazal statues, some of the oldest large-scale human statues ever discovered. End your self-guided tour at Rainbow Street, a bustling thoroughfare in the historic Jabal Amman district that's lined with cafés, restaurants, and boutiques. Shop for souvenirs or grab a bite to eat before returning to your hotel. 

Lace up your hiking boots this morning for a day trip to two of the region's ecological hotspots. After an early breakfast, your driver will take you on an hour's journey north to the RSCN Ajloun Forest Reserve, a protected ecosystem of evergreen oaks, pines, and wild pistachio trees. Explore the reserve's wildflowers and woodlands with a 3.5-hour hike against a backdrop of stunning scenery and sweeping views.

Afterward, your driver will take you 2.5 hours southeast to reach the little-visited gem of Azraq, home to a remarkable wetland reserve in the heart of the rugged Eastern Desert. Follow the boardwalk trails through this tranquil oasis and spot the many rare and endangered migratory bird species that flock here. You may spot birds like greater flamingoes, Eurasian kingfishers, white storks, and purple herons, so keep your eyes peeled. At the end of the day, you'll transfer 1.5 hours back to Amman for the evening.

Day 3: Discover the Ancient Ruins of Umm Qais, Jerash & Ajloun

Today, you'll discover some of northern Jordan's greatest archaeological sites, starting with a two-hour transfer to the ancient city of Umm Qais. Overlooking the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan Valley, Umm Qais was founded by the Ancient Greeks and later settled by the Romans. Once known as Gadara (one of the frontier Decapolis cities of Rome), the site was widely believed by Christians to be where Jesus performed the Miracle of the Gadarene Swine. Step back in time as you stroll column-flanked streets and take in the far-reaching views. 

Then, it's on to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the Middle East. Spend time wandering the extensive site and be sure to check out the pristine remains of two amphitheaters, the north-south Colonnaded Street and the Hippodrome (the site of ancient chariot races). Continue to the 12th-century Ajloun Castle, a fortress built to ward off the Crusader armies at the vital trade and pilgrimage intersection. Roam the ramparts and enjoy sweeping views over the Levant. In the afternoon, your driver will bring you back to Amman, where the rest of the evening is at your leisure.

Day 4: Transfer to Dana via Madaba, Mount Nebo & Kerak Castle

After breakfast at your hotel, you'll check out and meet your driver for today's journey 2.5 hours south to Dana, nestled on the edge of the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Along the way, you'll stop in Madaba to check out its intricate Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, including the spectacular Madaba Map, the oldest preserved mosaic map of the Holy Land. Nearby, the Madaba Archaeological Park preserves the mosaic-rich Church of the Virgin Mary and artifacts from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic eras.

Continue to 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 at the Dead Sea and beyond before eventually making your way to the Memorial Church of Moses, a modern structure that now houses excavated relics from the region.

Carry on south along the King's Highway to visit its impressive Crusader-built Kerak Castle. Exploring the fortress-like structure provides an opportunity to experience the vaulted halls and passageways typical of the era, a remarkable insight into the architectural and military prowess of the Crusaders. In the afternoon, you'll reach your destination for the night—a comfortable guesthouse perched on the edge of the Dana Valley.

Day 5: Hike in the Dana Biosphere Reserve, Transfer to Petra

Awake to the sounds of nature this morning in the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Jordan's largest natural reserve encompasses four distinct biogeographic zones and is home to remarkably diverse flora and fauna. Today's half-day trek takes you 5 miles (8 km) along the huge escarpments of Wadi Dana, passing through the terraced gardens of Dana and offering panoramic views of the canyon-like wadi. On your way down the valley, you may see griffon vultures overhead or hyrax and copper-blue lizards along the rocky trails. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of an ibex or a desert fox.

After lunch, it's time to get back on the road again, as your driver picks you up for a one-hour transfer south to the UNESCO-listed Petra, also known as the "Rose City," as its buildings are carved directly into the rose-red sandstone cliffs. On the way, stop at the 12th-century Shobak Castle, a formidable fortress built by the Crusaders. Wander through the labyrinthine passageways, climb up the ancient staircases, and admire the well-preserved chambers and halls. Climb up to the ramparts for panoramic views of the town of Shobak below.

Day 6: Explore the Sandstone City of Petra

Today, you'll explore Jordan's beloved archaeological treasure: the lost city of Petra. As soon as you enter the archaeological site, you'll see why it was named one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Its intricate architectural design is hundreds of years old and remarkably well-maintained. You can arrange to hire a guide for a two-hour tour of the site or spend the day exploring at your own pace. Enter through the Siq, a dramatically narrow gorge flanked by towering cliffs, and spend your day wandering at your leisure through Petra's seemingly endless temples, tombs, and colonnaded streets.

Navigate the impressive water conduit system of the historic Nabataean city, paying a visit to Qasr al-Bint, a grand temple that was once the population's primary place of worship. If you're feeling adventurous, climb your way up the 800 steps to the Monastery, Petra's lesser-visited and largest monument, standing at 147 feet tall (45 m). For a panoramic view of the Treasury and jagged mountains beyond, hike the steep stone-carved staircase to the top of Jabal al-Khubtha.

After a full day of exploring, return to your hotel to rest up and cool down before dinner. If your visit falls on a Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday, you can head out again after dark to experience the memorable Petra by Night experience. Stroll through canyons lined with thousands of candles to reach the illuminated Treasury, where live Arabic music sets the scene and a welcoming cup of tea awaits. 

Day 7: Free Morning in Petra, Visit Little Petra, Transfer to Wadi Rum 

After breakfast, your morning is free to discover more of Petra at your own pace, visiting any hidden corners and highlights that you may have missed. You can opt for another tour or even arrange for a guided hike along the backdoor trail, ending with dramatic views over the Monastery. When you're ready, get back on the road to visit the nearby Neolithic village of Siq Al-Barid, also known as "Little Petra." Thought to have been occupied as early as 7200 BCE, the carved stone village is considered one of the first settlements in human history. 

In the afternoon, your driver will take you two hours south into the wilderness of Wadi Rum, an expanse of desert dubbed the "Valley of the Moon" by Lawrence of Arabia. Here, you'll meet your Bedouin hosts and transfer into a sturdy Jeep to reach their traditional desert camp. Get settled into your wool tent and enjoy a traditional meal cooked over the fire before setting off on a camel ride to Umm Mughur or Umm Sabatah, towering rock formations that make the perfect sunset viewing spot. Enjoy a Bedouin snack and tea while you watch the sun slowly descend, casting a warm glow over the lunar-like landscape.

Day 8: Explore Wadi Rum by Jeep, Foot & Camel, Transfer to Aqaba

Early risers can start this morning with a memorable hot-air balloon ride over the desert if weather conditions are suitable. After breakfast, you'll set out by Jeep for an off-road excursion that takes you deeper into the UNESCO-protected Wadi Rum. Travel through valleys, rock canyons, dunes, and deserts, stopping to check out rock inscriptions and petroglyphs. Spend a little time at each stop to hike and explore at your own pace. Along the way, you'll also visit desert oases, see 2,000-year-old Kufic rock art, and learn about the history of the area and the local Bedouin culture. 

After lunch back at the camp, you can opt for a three-hour hike to explore more of the desert on foot. Then, your "ship of the desert" awaits as you mount up for a two-hour camel ride through the sands with your Bedouin guide. In the afternoon, say your goodbyes to the desert as your driver picks you up for a one-hour transfer to Aqaba on the Red Sea, Jordan's only coastal city. Go for a stroll and explore the bustling port, head to the beach for a swim, or enjoy platters of delicious local fish and expertly prepared meats in town before checking into your hotel for the evening.

Day 9: Transfer to the Dead Sea, Relax in the Lowest Point on Earth

Spend another morning at the beach, then bid the Red Sea farewell as your driver picks you up for the 3-4-hour drive north to reach the shores of the Dead Sea, one of the most spectacular natural and spiritual landscapes in the world. This landlocked lake is the lowest point on Earth and the world's richest source of natural salts, hiding natural treasures that have accumulated over thousands of years.

After a scenic drive through a landscape of otherworldly, arid hills, you'll reach your hotel, where you can get settled in and relax after the long drive. Enjoy the hotel's amenities, such as its pool overlooking the Dead Sea, or head down to the salty waters for a tranquil float. Then, you can unwind with a spa treatment, like a mud mask or wrap. 

Day 10: Hike the Siq Trail in the Mujib Nature Reserve, Visit Al-Maghtas

Meet your driver this morning for a 30-minute transfer into the mountainous landscape of Wadi Mujib, the "Grand Canyon of Jordan." Here, your guide will take you on a refreshing half-day hike through the Mujib Nature Reserve along the famous Siq Trail. Starting from the visitor center near the Mujib Bridge, cross over the dam on a cantilevered walkway and follow the course of the river between towering sandstone cliffs. Depending on seasonal rainfall levels, the hike can involve swimming or wading through refreshing pools of water, making it the perfect activity for hot summer days.

At the end of the trail, you'll come across Lower Mujib Waterfall, where the river cascades into the natural pool below. Afterward, you'll make an optional detour to Al-Maghtas, the site where John the Baptist is said to have baptized Jesus Christ on the eastern bank of the Jordan River. Located in a wadi kharar, or reeded valley, several centuries-old churches and human-made pools have recently been discovered and are worth exploring. At the end of the day, you'll return to the Dead Sea, where you can spend your final evening in Jordan at your leisure.

Day 11: Transfer to Amman, Depart

Take advantage of your last morning in Jordan with one more dip in the Dead Sea. Unwind in the mineral-rich waters and enjoy one more look at the shimmering blue waters. When the time comes, your driver will be waiting to transfer you one hour back to Amman for your departing flight. Try to snag a window seat so you can watch the rugged hills and winding mountain roads give way to lush valleys, terraced olive groves, and picturesque villages. Soon, the capital will come into view, marking the end of your 11-day trip. Safe travels!

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