Road to Jerusalem
Combine Jordan and Israel on one unforgettable trip. Discover the wonders of Petra, camp out in Wadi Rum and float like a cork in the Dead Sea before crossing the border into Israel. Take in the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem and the oldest church in the world in Bethlehem before travelling down the Mediterranean Coast to Tel Aviv.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Amman
Day 1 Amman
Saturday. Welcome to Jordan and the start of an amazing adventure. Arrive in Amman and enjoy an included transfer to our hotel. The remainder of today is at your leisure to independent explore or simply relax.
Day 2 Ancient cities, Roman ruins
Day 2 Ancient cities, Roman ruins
Amman - Jerash - Umm Qais - Amman. Heading north, we visit Jerash, the Graeco-Roman city known as the ‘Pompeii of the East’. Built over 2,000 years ago, Jerash is widely regarded as the best-preserved city of the Decapolis, a confederation of 10 Roman cities dating from the 1st century! We explore the site taking in the colonnaded street, amphitheatre, nymphaeum, forum and more, before continuing to Umm Qais (Gadara), a dramatic black-basalt Roman city of the Decapolis with panoramic views over the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights. Tonight, we head out for a meal and a stroll along Amman's famed Rainbow Street.
Day 3 Mt Nebo & Umm ar Rasas
Day 3 Mt Nebo & Umm ar Rasas
Amman - Madaba - Mount Nebo - Umm ar Rasas - Petra. Today we tour the citadel and Archaeological Museum of Amman before we take a walk through the bustling local souk to enjoy typical Jordanian street treats of falafel and hummus at the country’s most popular local street stand. As the pictures on the wall will prove, the unglamorous food stand was a great favourite of the late King Hussein.
Leaving Amman, we stop first at Mt. Nebo, the site from which Moses saw the Promised Land. Having led the Israelites for 40 years through the wilderness, Moses finally saw them from this awesome vantage point. This amazing panorama includes the Jordan River Valley, the Dead Sea, Jericho and the spires and domes of the Mt. of Olives and Bethlehem on the Judean hills just across the wide valley. Later, we visit Madaba en route to Petra where we see the Church of St George, the Madaba Archaeological Park, Apostles Church and Madaba Museum.
Our next port of call is Um ar-Rasas, one of Jordan’s World Heritage sites and once an important stop on the busy caravan routes. The impressive mosaic floor of the St. Stephen Church features medallions commemorating all the early Christian pilgrimage sites of the region, and the extensive ruins also include one of the area’s earliest Stylite towers, where a Byzantine hermit lived atop the tower and preached to the pilgrimage visitors.
Our final stop of the day is Petra. Consider doing the Petra by Night excursion (approx. USD$25 payable locally) for a tantalizing candlelight stroll through Petra’s Siq…. a romantic preview of things to come.
Day 4 The Rose City
Day 4 The Rose City
Chief among Jordan’s many archaeological riches is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rose City of Petra. The city was first settled around 6th century BC by the Nabataean tribe from Western Arabia. Rediscovered in 1812, it remains on the list of many travellers bucket lists. We access the hidden archaeological treasures of the Rose City on our walk through a narrow, deep siq, where the rocks finally give way to reveal the famous facade of Al-Khazneh (The Treasury). Continuing our walk, we go on to explore parts of this fantastic once-lost city which is full of tombs, temples, an impressive amphitheatre and a Roman colonnaded street. The intrepid, can ascend the hundreds of rock-cut steps to Ad-Deir, better known as the Monastery. Ad-Deir has a similar facade to that of the Treasury, but is far bigger and the views from the nearby cliff-tops are breathtaking.
Want to learn how to cook Middle Eastern food? Consider our Petra Kitchen Add-on tonight!
Day 5 4x4 & Wadi Rum Desert by night
Day 5 4x4 & Wadi Rum Desert by night
Petra - Wadi Rum. A chance to revisit Petra before our afternoon drive to Wadi Rum. A vast, silent landscape of ancient riverbeds, pastel coloured stretches of sandy desert and amazing rock formations known as jebels that rise from the desert floor, the desertscape of Wadi Rum represents some of the most stunning countryside on the planet. Boarding our 4x4 jeep, we take a safari through the sand dunes, getting up close and personal to the surrounding scenery of Wadi Rum. Tonight, we enjoy a Jordanian dinner and bed down in private cabins for the night.
Day 6 Shobak Castle, Wadi Mujib canyoning & the Dead Sea
Day 6 Shobak Castle, Wadi Mujib canyoning & the Dead Sea
Wadi Rum - Shobak – Wadi Mujib - Dead Sea. After breakfast at our campsite, we head north along the Desert Highway to visit Shobak Castle, which is perched dramatically on a hill top and was built by the Crusader king Baldwin I in 1115. After exploring the castle we descend some 1300 meters to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on the earth’s surface. More than 400 meters below sea level, the mineral-rich Dead Sea is the world’s original health and beauty spa. Drift out and bob in the waters and slap on some of the famous black Dead Sea mud to give your skin an invigorating boost.
For departures between April and October we head up the King’s Highway to Wadi Mujib and embark on a moderate–paced two hour trek along the Siq Trail. Measuring 500 metres in depth and spanning 4kms across, the impressive Wadi Mujib is one of Jordan’s most remarkable natural landscapes. This dramatic canyon features sheer rocky walls and sparkling waterways that range from puddle height to depths that are perfect for swimming (chest height or deeper) depending on the rainfall. When the water level is high you should be prepared for having to climb up ladders, clamber across boulders and be happy to wade through water. The canyon is just one feature of the Mujib Biosphere Reserve, the lowest nature reserve in the world, home to a surprising diversity of wildlife and plant species. For those not interested in taking the full hike, you can walk part of it or wait by the Visitor Centre until the group returns. After our trek we make our way to the Dead Sea.
Day 7 Dead Sea relaxation
Day 7 Dead Sea relaxation
The lowest point on the earth's surface at more than 400m below sea level, the Dead sea is a natural phenomenon and high on most travellers must experience lists. Lucky for us, we have a whole day to spend here, whiling away the time bobbing in its mineral-rich buoyant waters and lathering up with a detoxifying mud bath. Later today, there is an optional visit to the Ma'in hot springs - a series of waterfalls and hot springs, and a sacred baptism site where Jesus Christ is thought to have been baptised (payable locally).
Day 8 Journey to Jerusalem
Day 8 Journey to Jerusalem
Dead Sea – Jerusalem (West Bank). This morning you are picked up at 9:00am and transferred to the Jordanian border, where after immigration formalities you travel by a border public shuttle bus between the borders, into Israel. Here you are met by a driver and escorted to your hotel in Jerusalem. This afternoon and evening offers free time. Today is the Sabbath, which offers good opportunity to explore the World Heritage Listed city on foot without the usual crowds.
Day 9 Bethlehem
Day 9 Bethlehem
Today, we enjoy a guided tour of Jerusalem and Bethlehem in the West Bank. Our first stop is the holy Mount of Olives where there are amazing panoramic views of the old city. We take a walking tour of the atmospheric old city; wander through the Armenian and Jewish quarters to the Cardo (ancient Roman road). We continue, through the old City and the Christian Quarter, visiting the famous Wailing Wall - a place of constant prayer and one of the most revered Hebrew sites. Retrace the final laboured steps of Jesus, burdened under the weight of the cross, along the Via Dolorosa to the hallowed Church of the Sepulchre; the site of the crucifixion, Jesus’ tomb and the resurrection.
A short drive from Jerusalem is Bethlehem – the birthplace of Jesus, where we visit Manger Square and the Church of Nativity, which is reputed to be the oldest Church in the world and the site where Jesus was born. Spend the evening at leisure in Jerusalem.
Day 10 Caesarea & Jaffa
Day 10 Caesarea & Jaffa
Jerusalem – Caesarea – Jaffa – Tel Aviv. We bid farewell to Jerusalem today and travelling down the coast, we stop in the historic city of Caesarea where Roman and Crusader-era ruins are strewn along the sea front. Continuing south, we reach Jaffa, an ancient port where we enjoy a walking tour of the picturesque, fortified town and marvel at the hilltop views. Then, it's just a short drive to the vibrant, modern and cosmopolitan city of Tel Aviv, where we spend our final night. Dubbed "the city that never sleeps" Tel Aviv is renowned for its hedonistic nightlife and the city also has a plethora of trendy bistros, high-end restaurants and delicious street food stalls to choose from.
Day 11 Tel Aviv to Ben Gurion Airport
Day 11 Tel Aviv to Ben Gurion Airport
Tuesday. Our tour ends today with an included transfer from Tel Aviv to Ben Gurion Airport at any time of day.
There's so much to see and do in Tel Aviv that we highly recommend extending your stay to enjoy its beautiful beaches, art galleries and markets, including the popular Nachiket Benjamin market, which is only open on Tuesdays. We can arrange post tour accommodation, please enquire.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Recently refurbished, the Al Qasr Metropole is a modern and chic boutique hotel. Guest rooms are beautifully furnished and include free Wi-Fi connection and luxury en suite facilities. All guests at the Al Qasr gain free access to the on site Fitness First gym as well as a complimentary breakfast. The rooftop restaurant has fantastic panoramic views of Amman and is a great place to spend the evening. The hotel is well located in Shmeisani, one of Amman's most prestigious neighbourhoods.
Located above Wadi Mousa, Old Village Resort has a wonderfully traditional feel about it with open stonework and original architecture. Rooms are full of character, some with delightful archways and all directly accessed from the outside. The hotel boasts an indoor swimming pool and sauna and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. For dinner why not dine al fresco at the restaurant overlooking the mountains. Well located in forested wadis facing Petra’s mountains.
Just 300 ft from the entrance gate to Petra, the Petra Moon hotel features spacious rooms with private balconies and flat-screen TVs. It also has a roof garden with a seasonal outdoor pool. The soundproofed rooms and suites at Petra Moon come with satellite channels, a DVD player and extra-long beds. Each has air conditioning and a private bathroom. The hotel's restaurant serves a delicious selection of international meals in both buffet-style and a la carte.
Desert Season Camp, nestled in the heart of Wadi Rum, offers a serene desert retreat with breathtaking mountain vistas and a range of comfortable accommodations, including tents equipped with air conditioning and ensuite bathroom. Campsite facilities include complimentary WiFi in communal areas. Guests can explore the quiet, secluded canyon surroundings, climb a nearby mountain to witness stunning sunsets, and even experience local camel races on the camp's flat sand area. The evenings come alive with traditional music performances by local musicians, complemented by the inviting ambiance of the outdoor seating area.
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Wadi Rum, Sharah Camp promises a desert retreat with a modern touch. Each tent is equipped with air conditioning and en suite facilities. There is complimentary WiFi in communal areas at the campsite. With stunning mountain views, a charming terrace, and a host of modern conveniences, this camp offers a perfect blend of luxury and tradition in the heart of the desert.
Graced with interconnecting palm fringed swimming pools leading to the Dead Sea, the Holiday Inn is an Arabesque style hotel. Guest rooms are elegantly furnished and benefit from complimentary high speed internet. The hotel also has an on site fitness centre and a fine choice of Spa facilities. The 24 hour sleek bar is the perfect place for a tipple at any time of the day or night. The accommodation is located on the shores of the world famous Dead Sea.
Offering an excellent location between Jerusalem’s exclusive Rahavia neighborhood and the Old City, Prima Kings is just metres away from the Great Synagogue. It’s façade features colourful bougainvillea cascading over each balcony, with guestrooms offering free WiFi, a private bathroom with a bath and soft carpeted floors. A buffet breakfast and dinner are served daily in the Carmel and Zion Hall, with a coffee shop also selling an array of snacks and drinks. Be sure to also take advantage of the hotel's spa facilities, which include a fitness centre, sauna and a range of rejuvenating treatments and massages.
Opened in 2014, the Eyal Hotel offers a modern stay in the ancient city of Jerusalem. It boasts an excellent location within walking distance of many points of interest, such as the Great Synagogue, the Damascus Gate and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, to name just a few. Each guestroom is fully equipped with essential amenities, with WiFi available free of charge, and the hotel also features an onsite buffet restaurant. However, its real highlight is the rooftop terrace, from which you can enjoy fantastic views over the city center and ancient city walls.
A private hideaway for all guests is an accurate way to describe Jerusalem's Prima Royale Hotel. The hotel's contemporary and artistic vibe attracts guests from all over the world. Rooms are modern and comfortable and include Wi-Fi connectivity. There is a delightful infusion of Middle-eastern ambiance throughout the hotel, no more so than on the Roof Top where guests can enjoy cocktails and a guided aerial view of the city. Perfectly located on a quiet street in the Talbieh district of Jerusalem.
Well-located on one of Tel Aviv’s central streets, this boutique hotel is just minutes from the Carmel Market, Diezengoff Square and the lively cafes and restaurants of Sheinkein Street. Its guestrooms are spacious and comfortable, featuring modern décor and free high-speed WiFi. An extensive sweet and savoury breakfast is served daily in the hotel’s café, and guests can also take advantage of the free gym and bike rental. Although as the beach is just footsteps away, you'll most likely be spending your time soaking up the sun on the sands.
Tour Reviews
We found the Jordan part of the trip to be interesting, educational and fun. At one point I lost my purse in the middle of Wadi Rum and it was found and delivered by a group of young men. Amazing. The guide was phenomenal. The Israel part of the trip not so much. The guide was gruff, uncommunicative and difficult to understand. He spent all our time showing us bogus sites of religious value (we did not need to see All the stations of the cross). He gave alot of miss-information and would argue with our group when we disagreed. We were very disappointed not to have seen more of Israel.
the best ever
The visit to Jordan was ..more enjoyable than the visit to Israel. Our guide who he told us to call him AJ... was much the reason that we enjoyed the Jordan visit so much. He was very knowledgeable about the history of Jordan, about the Roman occupation of Jordan and the Christian Histories of Jordan. He was proud of his country and shared his love of his country with us. It was mostly because of AJ that the visit to jordan was the best part of the tour. The visit to Israel was ok... we stopped at the required stops... he made sure we stopped at some wood carving spot in Bethlehem and we spent a long time there. Everywhere else... all the guides wanted to do is get it over with and leave us to manage ourselves. I say Guides... because we had two. Neither of the guides was interesting, and they made no effort to befriend or show any kindness us as individuals. Again... all the two guides we had wanted was to get it over with and get away.. back where ever they had come from. So if I judged the two area visits , I would definitely give the visit to Jordan a 10. The visit to Israel a 4...simply because of the "Lackluster" guides we were stuck with.
Great tour , good pace , great guide, good history and local knowledge. 18 people on the tour was the right number . 13 in Israel was great. Having the same people in Israel part was a relief.
We feel so fortunate to have had Hameed/AJ as our tour guide in Jordan. His communication skills as well as his passion for people were outstanding! He went above and beyond to make sure that we were safe and happy with things, looking out for our best interest. He did a great job creating a fun “family environment” with us all. It truly was the trip of a lifetime! I am in awe of the kindness/welcoming spirit of the Jordanian people! I would highly recommend this tour- but would also add that to experience all of the highlights of the trip- one should be physically fit! Hameed made this trip extraordinary! A Five Star tour guide!🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
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