Essential Jordan
6 Days Starting and ending in Amman, Jordan
Visiting: Amman, Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Essential Jordan" tour, a captivating journey through the heart of the Hashemite Kingdom. Begin in Amman, where you'll be welcomed and introduced to the rich history of this vibrant city. Explore the ancient Roman city of Jerash and the bustling souks of Amman. Experience the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea and the historical grandeur of Kerak Castle. Discover the natural beauty of Dana Village and the eco-friendly Feynan Ecolodge. Marvel at the rose-colored wonders of Petra, and venture into the breathtaking desert landscapes of Wadi Rum with a thrilling jeep tour. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, including a night under the stars in a desert camp, and savor authentic Jordanian cuisine. With private transportation and knowledgeable English-speaking guides, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Jordan's most iconic sites.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival In Amman
Location: Amman
Accommodation Name: Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Ahlan Wa Sahlan – Welcome to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan! You will be met and be assisted through immigration and customs procedures. Afterwards, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Amman, which is approx a 30-minute drive. Check-in and enjoy some leisure time.
In the evening, meet your fellow travellers as you enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant situated in downtown Amman, offering a taste of authentic Jordanian cuisine.
Meals
Dinner
Accommodation
Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar
Services
Airport transfer
Travel time and distance
Queen Alla Airport to hotel: Approx. 35 km/ 34 mins drive
Day 2 - Jerash - Amman
Location: Amman
Accommodation Name: Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Jerash
After breakfast, drive for approx an hour to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the Middle East. Explore its ancient wonders, including paved streets, colonnaded walkways, majestic temples, and impressive theatres, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Roman civilisation.
Amman City Tour
Afterwards, return to Amman, and delve into the city’s rich history with a guided tour of its historical sites.
Citadel Hill and Archaeological Museum
Begin at Citadel Hill, where you’ll discover dating from the Roman to the early Islamic period and visit the Archaeological Museum to further explore Jordan’s heritage
Souk
Continue through Amman’s bustling downtown area, strolling through the vibrant Souk to experience everyday life in the city. Admire the Roman Theatre, dating back to the 2nd century and boasting a seating capacity of 6,000 spectators.
Jabal Amman and Jabal Weibdeh
Stroll through Jabal Amman and Jabal Weibdeh, renowned for their vibrant artistic communities, charming handicraft shops, and delightful restaurants.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance
Jerash to Amman: Approx. 50 km/1-hour drive
Day 3 - Dead Sea – Kerak Castle – Dana Village – Feynan Ecolodge
Location: Dead Sea
Accommodation Name: Feynan Ecolodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Dead Sea
Drive to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth 400 metres below sea level. Experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in its buoyant waters, known for their therapeutic properties since the time of Herod the Great. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a Dead Sea resort, taking in the stunning views of this natural wonder.
Kerak Castle
Afterwards, continue with a scenic drive to Kerak Castle, a remarkable Crusaderfortress perched on a hilltop. Explore its underground passageways and imagine the epic battles that once took place here as forces clashed during the time of Salah Ad-Din’s siege.
Dana Village
Next, visit Dana Village, home to Bedouin communities for centuries. Explore the breathtaking views of Jordan’s largest nature reserve and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Feynan Ecolodge
Finally, head to Feynan Ecolodge, nestled in the heart of the desert. Check-in and enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the desert landscape. Hailed as one of the best 25 ecolodges in the world by National Geographic Traveler Magazine, the award-winning, solar-powered Feynan Eco Lodge offers the most developed eco-experience in Jordan; an experience only made possible by a unique partnership between EcoHotels and the RoyalSociety for the Conservation of Nature, a Jordanian NGO devoted to the protection of the Kingdom’s finest natural landscapes.
Explore local archaeological sites or simply relax and unwind in the serene courtyards and terraces of
the candle-lit complex, safe in the knowledge that your travels in Jordan are socially and environmentally responsible.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Feynan Ecolodge
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide – please note your vehicle into Fenyan Ecolodge is a local Bedouin driver to support the local community
Travel time and distance
Dead Sea to Kerak Castle: Approx. 120 km/1.5 hrs drive
Kerak Castle to Dana Village: Approx. 60 km/ 1 hr, 15 mins drive
Dana Village to Feynan Ecolodge: Approx. 90 km/ 2 hrs drive
Day 4 - Petra
Location: Petra
Accommodation Name: Petra Guest House or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to Dana, then continue with a scenic drive of approximately one hour to Petra, Jordan’s most iconic attraction.
Petra, known as the “Rose City,” was established around the 6th century BC by the Nabataean Arabs, who carved magnificent structures into rose-coloured sandstone cliffs. You’ll enter the narrow canyon known as the Siq, a mesmerizing journey leading to Petra’s hidden treasures.
As you walk through the Siq, explore the stunning monument known as the Treasury, one of Petra’s most iconic structures. Continue along the Street of Facadesto and explore the RoyalTombs and Pharaoh’s Castle, each offering a glimpse into Petra’s rich history and architectural grandeur.
Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Petra at your own pace, soaking in the majestic beauty of this ancient city.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Petra Guest House or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance
Feynan Ecolodge to Dana: Approx. 40 km/ 1 hr drive
Dana to Petra: Approx. 95 km/ 1 hr drive
Day 5 - Petra - Wadi Rum
Location: Wadi Rum
Accommodation Name: Sun City Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast at your hotel in Petra, drive approx one and a half hours to Wadi Rum.
Wadi Rum, Jordan’s largest wadi, is a breathtaking desert landscape inhabited since prehistoric times. Upon arrival, embark on a thrilling adventure with a 4×4 Jeep tour led by a local Bedouin driver. Explore the rugged terrain, marvel at the ever-changing colours of the sand and mountains and soak in the serene atmosphere that surrounds you. As you traverse through the vast expanse of WadiRum, you’ll
encounter dramatic canyons, towering red sand dunes, ancient Nabatean rock inscriptions, and natural rock formations, including a stunning rock bridge formed over centuries.
Later, check into your campsite in Wadi Rum, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner under the desert sky, hopefully, adorned with a canopy of stars, creating a magical ambience for your night in the desert.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Sun City Camp or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance
Petra Guest House to Wadi Rum: Approx. 105 km/1.5-hour drive
Day 6 - Wadi Rum - Departure
Location: Wadi Rum
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at Wadi Rum and early check out at camp. Return to Amman for your onward flight to your next destination. (We recommend booking an evening flight).
Meals
Breakfast
Service
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
What's Included
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Return airport transfers
Return airport transfers are included in the tour package.
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4 nights hotel accommodation and 1 night desert camp
The tour includes 4 nights of hotel accommodation and 1 night at a desert camp.
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Services of local English-speaking guides
Local English-speaking guides will be available throughout the tour.
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Private transportation with air conditioning
Private transportation with air conditioning is provided during the tour.
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English speaking driver
An English-speaking driver is included in the tour.
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Entrance fees and sightseeing as per the itinerary
Entrance fees and sightseeing activities as per the itinerary are included.
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Meals as per the itinerary
Meals are provided as per the itinerary.
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Day pass entry to swim in the Dead Sea at Holiday Inn hotel including towel and use of shower room
A day pass entry to swim in the Dead Sea at Holiday Inn hotel, including towel and use of shower room, is included.
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3hr jeep ride in Wadi Rum with Bedouin driver
A 3-hour jeep ride in Wadi Rum with a Bedouin driver is included.
What's Not Included
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International flights
International flights are not included in the tour package.
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Visas
Visas are not included and must be arranged separately.
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Horse ride in Petra
A horse ride in Petra is not included in the tour package.
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Travel and medical insurance
Travel and medical insurance are not included and should be arranged independently.
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All services, meals other than those indicated above
Any services and meals not indicated in the inclusions are excluded.
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Any changes to the proposed and confirmed program.
Any changes to the proposed and confirmed program are not included.
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All items of a personal nature e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone calls, tips etc
All items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls, and tips are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with private transportation featuring air conditioning, accompanied by an English-speaking driver. Enjoy seamless transfers, including a 3-hour jeep ride in Wadi Rum with a local Bedouin driver, ensuring a smooth and immersive travel experience.
Accommodation
Enjoy 4 nights in comfortable hotel accommodations and 1 night in a unique desert camp, offering a blend of modern amenities and authentic experiences. Stay at the Khan Khediwe Hotel, Feynan Ecolodge, and Sun City Camp or similar, ensuring a memorable stay throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 4 nights of hotel accommodation and 1 night in a desert camp. Specific accommodations mentioned are Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar, Feynan Ecolodge, Petra Guest House or similar, and Sun City Camp or similar.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour package?
Yes, return airport transfers are included in the tour package.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour provides private transportation with air conditioning and an English-speaking driver. Additionally, a local Bedouin driver is used for the journey into Feynan Ecolodge to support the local community.
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Is there a guided tour of Petra included in the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary includes a visit to Petra, where you will explore the Siq, the Treasury, the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and Pharaoh’s Castle with a guide.
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What activities are included in Wadi Rum?
In Wadi Rum, the tour includes a 3-hour jeep ride with a Bedouin driver, exploring the desert landscape, canyons, sand dunes, and rock formations.
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Is there an opportunity to swim in the Dead Sea during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a day pass entry to swim in the Dead Sea at the Holiday Inn hotel, which includes the use of a towel and shower room.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Meals are included as per the itinerary, which specifies breakfast, lunch, and dinner on certain days.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes. Focusing on providing authentic experiences where ever you are in the world, Crooked Compass has access to a vast array of accommodation styles. From boutique properties in larger cities to local guest houses and home stays within small villages. Crooked Compass ensures that local authenticity flows through your accommodation throughout your tour without compromising standard.
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What sort of transportation is used for your tours?
Transportation utilised on a Crooked Compass escorted small group tour is a combination of a private air conditioned vehicle and local transport where appropriate. This may include a local bus ride, use of the cities metro system, a domestic flight to another city or overnight train ride.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Crooked Compass strives to be a leader in sustainable tourism. Crooked Compass is firmly committed to the principles of ethical travel. Our comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Practices policy summarises our commitments and actions. Although the very basis of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of sustainable tourism, this policy re-iterates our commitment to: Use locally owned hotels Use locally owned ground agents Use local guides and drivers Promote community tourism projects from homestays to craft shops Support charities that work within the destinations that we travel to Carbon offset our travels
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Who runs your tours and are they experts in their fields?
Crooked Compass works with the worlds best operators who are specialists in their country, region and cities providing you with in depth local knowledge. We use local guides who live and breathe the areas they work in, making sure you experience their region, their way. We believe it is far better to have a local guide who knows a lot about a little than a text book trained Western tour guide who knows a little about a lot. Using local guides also ensures that money stays within local communities and supports the regions we visit.
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What can I expect from a Crooked Compass tour that I wouldn't get from travelling with an alternative company?
Crooked Compass provides a sensory way to understand the world – we help you live like a local, eat like a local, do what the locals do and seek the faces behind the places whilst discovering untouched lands and natural beauty. Crooked Compass tours delve deep into the heart and soul of a destination ensuring you get out of your journey all you intended and much, much more. Our intriguing itineraries have been created by travellers for travellers. Steering travellers to follow a different path, Crooked Compass’ itineraries allow you to experience the world’s most fascinating destinations in ways you never dreamed possible. It brings to life those ‘bucket list’ experiences you have yearned to do and separates the travellers from the tourists. Crooked Compass tours are culturally rich, reward travellers with unexpected encounters and uncommon rendezvous, creating truly unique, authentic travel experiences.
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Who do your tours cater for?
Crooked Compass escorted small group tours cater for those who are well travelled seeking the what’s next and what’s new. Our travellers are curious minded soft adventurers who want to uncover something more than the mainstream tourist trail. Crooked Compass tours draw travellers with an interest in sustainable tourism and conservation for the areas they visit. A Crooked Compass traveller is someone who is seeking something fresh and unique, who has a yearning for authenticity and discovery, with an appreciation for cultures, tradition and the natural world. We call them Cultural Purists.
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I am concerned about my impact on travelling through untouched regions. Can I offset?
Yes. All travellers on Crooked Compass tours have the option to offset their part of their tour’s carbon footprint by donating $4AUD (tax-deductible) at time of booking. 100% of these funds are donated to Greenfleet, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting our climate by restoring our forests. By partnering with Greenfleet, we are confident that our carbon offset program provides genuine and lasting environmental benefits. Your offset donation funds plant trees and restore permanent native forests in Australia and New Zealand. As they grow, these forests provide many community and environmental benefits by absorbing carbon emissions, protecting our unique biodiversity, restoring habitat for native wildlife, preventing soil salinity and erosion, improving water quality and much more. If you’d like to find out more and offset the rest of your carbon emissions, visit www.greenfleet.org.au
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Low Deposit
Crooked Compass requires a minimum deposit of 20% 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 crooked compass charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.