Israel and Jordan: A Tale of Two Nations

Begin the adventure of a lifetime, flying from the UK to Amman. Upon arrival, transfer to the luxurious InterContinental Amman for a three-night stay, where comfort and relaxation await. Settle in and prepare for the exciting days ahead, exploring the ancient wonders and modern marvels of these remarkable lands.
(Flight Included | Airport Transfer | N)

Embark on a fascinating journey to Umm Qais, the ancient Decapolis city of Gadara, which dates back to the Hellenistic period. Explore the preserved Roman theater, basilica, and colonnaded streets, reflecting its vibrant past.

Continue to Jerash, a well-preserved Roman city with its impressive Arch of Hadrian, built to honor Emperor Hadrian’s visit in 129 AD. Enjoy lunch prepared by women from a local village before exploring the Oval Plaza, Temple of Artemis, and the magnificent Jerash Hippodrome, which once seated 15,000 spectators for chariot races. As the day ends, return to Amman for a restful evening.
(B, L)

Begin the day exploring Amman’s rich history and cultural diversity. First, visit the Amman Citadel, an ancient hilltop site featuring the Temple of Hercules, Umayyad Palace, and the remains of a Roman temple. Then, descend to the Roman Theater, a 6,000-seat structure built in the 2nd century AD, showcasing the city’s Roman heritage.

Later, delve into Jordan’s history at the Jordan Museum, which houses artifacts from the Paleolithic period to modern times, including some of the famous Dead Sea Scrolls and the 9,000-year-old ‘Ain Ghazal statutes. In the evening, experience a traditional Jordanian dinner with a local family, enjoying the rich flavors of dishes such as mansaf and maqluba.
(B, D)

Travel the King’s Highway to Madaba, a city renowned for its Byzantine-era mosaics, most notably the 6th-century map of the Holy Land in St. George’s Church. Next, ascend Mount Nebo, an important religious site where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land. Admire the mosaics in the early Christian church and the sweeping views of the Jordan Valley.

Venture to Shobak, a Crusader castle built in 1115 by King Baldwin I, featuring underground chambers and hidden passages. Continue to Petra, the ancient Nabatean city, and settle in for a two-night stay at the Mövenpick Resort Petra. In the evening, consider an optional visit to Petra by candlelight for an enchanting experience.
(B, L)

Embark on a guided tour of the awe-inspiring city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 4th century BC. Discover the iconic Treasury, or Al-Khazneh, a monumental temple facade carved into the mountainside, believed to be the mausoleum of a Nabatean king.

Continue to the Street of Facades, lined with impressive tombs, and the Great Temple, an architectural marvel with its colonnaded courtyard and intricate carvings. As you venture further, explore the Royal Tombs, the Theater, and the Monastery, or Ad-Deir, an imposing structure perched atop a mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

(B)

Choose between a leisurely morning or an optional 4×4 excursion into the mesmerizing desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the dramatic sandstone cliffs, natural arches, and ancient rock carvings left by the Nabateans and Thamudic tribes. Discover the legacy of T.E. Lawrence, known as Lawrence of Arabia, who used Wadi Rum as a base during the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire.

Continue to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on land at over 430 meters below sea level, renowned for its therapeutic waters and mineral-rich mud. Check-in for a two-night stay at the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea, where rejuvenation and relaxation await.
(B)

Spend the day at leisure, taking advantage of the luxurious amenities at the resort, or floating in the buoyant, salty waters of the Dead Sea, known for their healing properties.

Alternatively, consider an optional excursion to the baptism site at Bethany Beyond the Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage site where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. Explore the archaeological remains, including churches, baptismal pools, and pilgrim lodgings, which testify to the religious significance of this sacred site.
(B)

Cross the Allenby Bridge and journey to Jericho, one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities, dating back over 10,000 years. Explore the city’s ancient ruins, including the Tel es-Sultan archaeological site, where the remains of ancient towers, walls, and dwellings showcase its historical significance.

Continue to Jerusalem, a city that has witnessed the convergence of three major religions for millennia. Check-in for a three-night stay at the Harmony Hotel or Arthur Hotel and anticipate the profound experiences that await.
(B)

Begin the day exploring the Old City of Jerusalem, walking the ancient stone-paved streets, and uncovering its rich history. Visit the Western Wall, a sacred site for Jewish prayer and the last remnant of the Second Temple. Marvel at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, built over Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. Reflect on the significance of the room of the Last Supper, also known as the Cenacle, where Jesus shared his final meal with his disciples.

Venture to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, and visit the Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage site built over the grotto where Jesus is believed to have been born. Experience the vibrant energy of Manger Square, the heart of the city, surrounded by historic churches and bustling markets.
(B)

Savor a day at leisure with the opportunity to explore the renowned Israel Museum, housing an incredible collection of art, archaeological finds, and cultural artifacts. Visit the Israel Museum, home to the Shrine of the Book that contains most of the Dead Sea Scrolls, ancient Hebrew texts found in the Qumran Caves, and the Second Temple Model, a detailed representation of Jerusalem during the time of Jesus.

Alternatively, consider an optional excursion to Masada, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring an ancient fortress perched high above the Dead Sea. Delve into the site’s dramatic history, including the story of the Jewish rebels who made a final stand against the Roman Empire during the First Jewish-Roman War.
(B)

Conclude the journey in the bustling coastal city of Tel Aviv, known for its modernist architecture, vibrant nightlife, and pristine beaches. Next, explore the ancient port city of Jaffa, a place steeped in history with its winding alleys, historic churches, mosques, and the Jaffa Clock Tower, symbolizing the Ottoman Empire’s modernization efforts.

As the adventure draws to a close, transfer to the airport and board the flight from Tel Aviv back to the UK, carrying with you a treasure trove of memories to cherish for years to come.
(Flight Included | Airport Transfer | B)