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Tour Overview

From its staggering landscapes to sacred sites, this country of Arab wonders may be small but has plenty to offer keen travellers around the world. Our 8 day adventure to this gem of the Middle-East takes you through a mixture of modern cities, desert landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

About this tour

  • Group Size: Max 19
  • Recommended Age: 18-65
  • Physical Rating: Africa2
  • Accommodation:6 night(s) in hotels, 1 night(s) camping
  • Transportation:Private Vehicle
  • Meals:7 Breakfast(s), 2 Dinner(s)
  • Country:Jordan

What should you expect?

Tipping in the Middle East is customary. We have included the cost of tipping for included services on your tour so you can spend all your time enjoying your adventure and not worrying about how much to tip. However, please note that tipping for optional excursions and your tour leader/guide is not included in this.

Essential Information

  • Visas and travel insurance
  • Spending money – budget for meals, snacks, drinks, limited souvenirs, laundry, tips and any extras
  • International flights to/from the start/end of your tour and departure taxes
  • Tips on excursions, visas, travel insurance, personal items and single rooms.
  • Optional excursions – On each trip, you may find there are some excursions that are not included. This might be because they are not to everyone’s taste or there may be various options of differing value to choose from. More information on the excursions we recommend is listed under each day of your itinerary though prices may vary. If you are after something in particular, don’t hesitate to ask your tour leader.
  • Airport transfers and pre and post tour accommodation

Your joining location is:

Art Hotel Downtown

30 King Faysal Street

Downtown Amman, Jordan

Tel: +962 6 463 8900

Emergency Contact Details

 In an emergency please contact Sami or Hussam on the following numbers: 

+962799661007 Sami

+962776337330 Hussam (if not available the call with be diverted to Sami)
Arriving in Amman

When arriving at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman we recommend that you obtain some local currency, the Jordinian dinar, as soon as you arrive. 

It is advisable not to wear chains or expensive looking watches or jewellery while in major cities. 

Airport Transfers

Arrival transfers are not included in the price of your tour. If you would like to book an airport transfer please speak to your adventure specialist.

Ramadan

In 2020, Ramadan will fall between the 23rd April and 23rd May. Ramadan is a month long period of fasting observed by Muslims where they should not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. Generally, our tours will operate as normal during this period although there may be some limitations to services in certain areas. Food is still available to non-Muslims however you should display a higher level of cultural sensitivity and try to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during this time out of respect for those who cannot. In addition to this you should also ensure that your clothing covers knees and shoulders. If you have further questions about what to expect please contact an Adventure Specialist.

This tour includes a variety of accommodation that is chosen based on comfort, cleanliness and location. You can find a breakdown of your accommodation in the “About this Tour” section.

Wadi Rum Camp – Here we will stay in traditional Bedouin tents, complete with beds, private bathroom and communal seating area. This location is perfect for stargazing. You will enjoy a traditional dinner cooked by your Bedouin hosts and learn about how the Zarb is cooked using the earth oven..

Alternative Accommodation

The type of accommodation indicated in the trip notes is a guideline. If for any reason, we need to change the accommodation listed on the itinerary, a similar standard of accommodation will be used instead. You can find the list of hotels or similar used on your itinerary under each day.

Twin Share

Accommodation on this trip is mostly on a twin share basis unless. If you are a solo passenger you will be sharing a room with another group member of the same sex. If you are travelling with a partner and wish to book a double bed, please advice your Adventure Specialist upon booking.

I’d like my own room

If you are a solo traveller, a private room is available on all occasions at an extra cost. This must be booked in advance.

Check-in Time

Although we endeavour to have hotel rooms ready in time for arrival, sometimes this is not possible especially if we arrive early in the morning. In this instance we will store our luggage and enjoy the destination before checking in later in the day.

This tour is operated on private vehicles.
Luggage

You will be carrying your own luggage on tour. Please limit this to one piece per person plus one day bag.

It is important to bring luggage you can carry and lift comfortably, potentially up stairs and from the vehicle to the hotel.

Packing List

Temperatures in the Middle East are generally high, particularly during the summer months from May to September. Loose, comfortable clothing that covers your legs and shoulders is ideal. In the winter months, temperatures can drop in the evening so ensure you have at least one pair of warm jeans/trousers and a few sweaters or tops which you can layer.

It is essential to cover up when visiting places of worship so please bear this in mind.

What essential items should I bring on my tour?

  • A lightweight and waterproof jacket.
  • Good, comfortable walking shoes are essential. There can either be comfortable trainers or walking shoes.
  • A small daypack – This should have enough room to carry items on day trips.
  • Sun protection- It can get very hot. Ensure you have a sun hat and sunscreen to keep you safe.
  • A sarong/cover-up to ensure your shoulders are covered before entering a place of worship.
  • A swimsuit.

Clothing

  • A lightweight and waterproof jacket
  • Jeans/trousers
  • Underwear and pyjamas
  • T-shirts/tops/shirts
  • Shorts/dresses/skirts
  • Trainers or walking shoes
  • Sandals
  • Jumper/cardigan/fleece
  • Swimwear/sarong/coverup

Electronics

  • Phone and charger
  • Camera and charger
  • Worldwide adaptor
  • Portable battery pack
  • Ipad/tablet/e-reader (great for long journeys!)

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Small medical kit with paracetamol/plasters
  • Antibacterial hand gel
  • Insect repellent and bite cream
  • Sun cream and lip balm
  • Shampoo/conditioner/body wash – ideally in bar form
  • Antiperspirant/deodorant

Other

  • One small day bag
  • Sunglasses
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Cloth bag for shopping
  • Ear plugs and sleep mask

Documents

  • Passport
  • Visas
  • Insurance
  • Printed copy of your passport
  • Printed copy of your emergency contacts numbers

Laundry

Depending on the time spent in each destination, your Tour Leader will be able to advise on laundromats or laundry services in or near our hotels. Hotel services can be pretty costly however your tour leader will be able to recommend cheaper options. If you wash clothes yourself take care not to be too obvious where you hang them as most hotels do not like guests washing and drying their clothes in the hotel rooms.

On a Tucan Travel tour you will experience a huge variety of amazing food in each location. Meals included are listed on the day to day itinerary and the “about your tour” section. On this trip, most breakfasts are included but lunch and dinner are at your own cost unless stated as included in the itinerary. Your tour leader will suggest restaurants in each location, and arrange evening group meals for those who wish to join. In the Middle East, there is a huge choice of incredible food.

If you have a specific dietary requirement it is important you advise us at the booking stage. We also recommend re-iterating this information to your tour leader on day 1. While we endeavour to assist as much as possible, it is ultimately your responsibility to research and arrange meals that suit your dietary preferences.

Currency

This tour uses the Jordanian Dinar.

Tipping Kitty

Tipping is part of the culture in Jordan, so we have included the cost of most of the tipping on this tour. This will include the tip for any included meals, excursions, transport and accommodation staff. Please note that should you take part in optional excursions that are separate from the tour, the tip will not be included. The tipping kitty also does not include a tip for your tour leader at the end of the tour. If you feel that your tour leader has provided excellent service, a discretionary tip is always appreciated.

Cards

The majority of shops, restaurants, hotels and other establishments in Jordan will accept credit and debit cards. American Express is not as widely accepted, so do not rely on this as your primary card.

Spending Money

We know how easy it is to lose track of your spending on holiday! That’s why it’s essential to thoroughly read your trip notes so that you understand what is and what isn’t included on each day. Most lunches and dinners are at your own cost, which gives you the flexibility to spend as little or as much as you like. Remember to budget for things like laundry, tipping, souvenirs and optional activities.

Budget

Your budget should include additional meals, transport within cities, optional excursions, shopping and an emergency fund.

Backup Funds

Travel can be unpredictable. While we endeavour to plan for every situation there are some instances where it is out of our control, such as severe weather, strikes, civil unrest or natural disasters. If these result in unavoidable itinerary changes, you should have access to enough funds for you to return home unexpectedly.

The Middle East is generally safe, even more so in a group tour. There are a few precautions which you should always take.

  • Do not travel with valuables. While phones and cameras are inevitable, leave the expensive jewellery and watches at home.
  • Make sure your handbag/daypack has a zip and is closed at all times.
  • When in crowded areas keep your bag on your front.
  • Do not walk alone after dark.
  • Only use registered taxis and if possible have the hotel phone one for you.
  • Do not take out large sums of cash at once and avoid keeping it all in the same place. Only take what you need for the day and leave the rest in a safe. Ideally, take more than one credit/debit card in case one is lost or stolen.

The safety of our travellers is a number one priority when operating our tours. As a British registered company the lead is taken from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office Advice Service (FCO). Tucan Travel reserves the right to cancel, amend or continue the operation of a tour based on, but not solely restricted to, the advice of the FCO.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all Tucan Travel tours. Your tour leader will request your travel insurance details at the pre departure meeting which are immediately submitted to the office. Failure to produce these details will mean you cannot join the tour.

Pack a Medical Kit

A medical kit is handy for minor wounds and ailments. In areas with limited or dubious medical facilities, an emergency medical kit containing sterile syringes is also advisable. By law our staff are not allowed to administer first aid or give drugs to travellers, so please be prepared with your own supplies. If you are taking medication, please ensure you bring an adequate supply and a letter from your doctor to avoid potential issues at border crossings.

Vaccinations

It is important to consult your doctor or travel clinic in good time before your tour departs to determine what vaccinations you require. If you are coming from a yellow-fever infected country then you must have had a yellow-fever vaccine and carry the certificate with you.

Horse Riding

All clients wishing to participate in horse riding or similar activities, whether included or optional, acknowledge that the availability of protective headgear can vary or be non-existent. Therefore Tucan Travel cannot guarantee that headgear will be provided or will be to the same standard as those available in the UK or your home country. Any client intending to partake in these activities should bring their own protective headgear and other protective equipment with them.

Age Restrictions

Our tours are perfectly designed for those aged between 18 and 65 years old. They are fast-paced and sometimes tiring, while packed with adventure, new experiences and feel-good moments. With customers from around the world, of different ages, backgrounds and nationalities, some groups can be more boisterous than others. As a result, we ask that anyone wanting to travel under the age of 18 or over 65 carefully consider whether a group tour is right for them. We may ask that you fill in our tour suitability form found here to guarantee your enjoyment of the trip. Please read through our Tour Suitability page or contact a member of our Reservations Team if in doubt. Please note that we do not accept children under the age of 16 on our group tours. If you are travelling with children please contact our tailor-made team for a bespoke holiday.

As a global tour operator, we understand the importance of running sustainable tours that have as low an impact on the environment as possible. Please read our comprehensive guide here before you travel.
Physical rating on your tour

The about this tour section will advise you on the physical rating of your chosen tour. This is scored from 1 to 5.

  • Relaxing: Sit back and relax on this trip! There are no physically demanding excursions included. You will have to carry your own bags.
  • Easy: Some easy physical activities are required on this trip though you won’t need to prepare in advance. There may also be more strenuous optional excursions available which may require advanced preparation depending on your level of fitness. You will have to carry your bags, enjoy short walking tours in the heat or at altitude or perhaps travel on cramped public transport.
  • Moderate: This trip will get your heart racing with tough one-day or easy multi-day hikes included. A good level of fitness is required to get the most out of the trip. You will have to carry your own bags and travel on cramped public transport.
  • Serious: Preparing in advance for this trip will allow you to get the most out of it. Tough multi-day hikes at altitude, having to carry your own bags and travel on public transport all feature but this rating may relate to the length of your tour and the mental endurance needed to get to the end.
  • Heart-pumping: Our most difficult physical rating. This trip will get your body moving and heart pumping. Prepare to be challenged both physically and mentally.

Included/Excluded

  • Guided day tour of Umm Qais and Jerash
  • Visit the market city of Madaba and the famous mosaic located in the Church of St George
  • Wadi Mujib Canyon viewpoint
  • Guided Tour of Petra UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Visit Little Petra
  • Overnight desert experience in Wadi Rum including 2 hour 4X4 jeep tour
  • Visit Karak Castle
  • Full day at the Dead Sea

Tour Plan

Day 01 Arrive Amman

Welcome to the dazzling capital city of Jordan. This modern city also comes with its fair share of history dating back to the 13th Century B.C.

The fascinating combination of old and new leaves plenty in the way of exploring. If you are arriving early in the day or have booked pre tour accommodation then we suggest that you make the most of your free time by taking a walk to the Jebel Al Weibdeh area and explore museums, mosques and galleries before perhaps heading to the iconic Citadel. The Citadel sits on the highest hill in Amman and consists of the grand temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace. This vantage point offers great views of the city.

Please note you will meet your tour leader at breakfast tomorrow morning. Spend this evening relaxing and perhaps enjoy a traditional Jordanian dinner in one of the local restaurants.

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Art Hotel Downtown or similar

Day 02 Day trip to Umm Qais and Jerash

This morning you will meet your tour leader at breakfast before departing by private vehicle to visit the city of Umm Qais located in the northwest region of Jordan. Once known as the city of Gadara, the ancient Greco-Roman City of Umm Qais' offers panoramic views over the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights and the Jordan Valley. These well preserved ancient ruins will have you feeling like you have just stepped back into a part of history.

After a morning of exploration, we journey towards the ancient city of Jerash. These ruins offer some of Jordan?s best examples of Greco-Roman architecture and are so well preserved that they are often referred to as the Pompeii of the Middle East. Wandering through its cobbled streets and marvelling at its magnificent monuments, temples and theatres it will not be difficult to imagine how life was for its former citizens. The only thing missing here are the roofs of the buildings and the Roman people! Admire Hadrian's Arch and explore the famous Hippodrome which hosted chariot races to thousands of spectators throughout a time of Roman rule. You can still see the tracks left by the chariots.

Late afternoon we head back to modern Amman to sample some Jordanian cuisine with an included evening meal at a local restaurant with your group and tour leader.

Included Excursions

Guided day tour of Umm Qais and Jerash

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Art Hotel Downtown or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s), 1 Dinner(s)

Day 03 Madaba, Mount Nebo, Umm ar Rases & Petra

This morning we drive to the market city of Madaba which is also known as the ‘City of Mosaics’, most notably the city is home to the 6th century Mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land. We make a stop at the 19th Century Byzantine Greek Orthodox Church of St George where you will have time to view this famous, colourful mosaic which now forms part of the church's floor.

Whilst in Madaba you will have the option to take part in a traditional Jordanian cooking experience. If you choose to do this then your guide will arrange for you to meet a local who will take you to buy produce from the local shops and market. After purchasing your fresh goods you will return to their home where they will share recipes and local traditions while you prepare and cook an authentic dish together. This will give you the unique opportunity to learn more about local culture and interact with a local family. If you opt not to join the cooking experience then you will have free time to explore Madaba and take lunch.

We depart Madaba and drive along the historical King's Highway which dates back to biblical times - the winding roads will take us through mountainous scenery observing local life along the way.

During our journey we will make a stop to experience a birds eye view of Wadi Mujib which is best known as ‘The Grand Canyon of Jordan’. Impressive for its grand scale, this gorge was known during biblical times as the River Arnon and was named after its noisy waterfalls. The river was important during this period as it formed a physical boundary between the Moabites and the Amorites. The canyon opens out to the Dead Sea at an altitude of 410m below sea level making it the lowest nature reserve on Earth.

Following this we will visit Mount Nebo - a Holy site in Jordan said to have been the place where Moses saw the Promised Land before he died as mentioned in the Old Testament. Your group will also get the opportunity to catch spectacular panoramic views of the Dead Sea and the Jordan River from Mount Nebo before making our way to the ancient site of Umm ar-Rasas.

In the late afternoon we arrive at our hotel situated just outside the ancient city of Petra. It is ideally located for tomorrow's activity where we will have a full day to explore the world famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, also known as the ‘Rose City’ due to its rose coloured rocks. Prepare to be mesmerised as you enter the city through the dramatic main entrance known as the Siq. Standing tall at an impressive 80m and over 1 km in length, this narrow and majestic gorge acts as a gateway to one of the most picturesque destinations you will ever visit.

Included Excursions

Visit the market city of Madaba and the famous mosaic located in the Church of St George,Wadi Mujib Canyon viewpoint

Optional Excursions

Jordanian Cooking Experience – JOD 17

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Edom Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 4 UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra

Today we start early in order to best experience Petra on our morning guided excursion. You will come face-to-face with this archaeological treasure which is very precious to the people of Jordan, so much so that it is considered a national symbol of the country. One of the Seven New Wonders of the World, this awe inspiring gem comprises of tombs, temples and its notable red-rose sandstone rock in which the city itself was carved inside. You will have the opportunity to continue exploring this in depth during your free afternoon.

This evening you have the option to experience the magic of the city at night with a candlelight experience.

Included Excursions

Guided Tour of Petra UNESCO World Heritage Site

Optional Excursions

Petra by night – JOD 17

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Edom Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 5 Little Petra & Wadi Rum

If you are left wanting more then you will have the option to wake up early and head back into Petra where you can appreciate the magnificence of the treasury without the crowds!

We will depart from Wadi Musa this morning and make our way to Little Petra where you can gain more of an insight into the immensity of this site.

The adventure continues as we drive further south to the dramatic desert wilderness of Wadi Rum. Bask in the natural beauty of the red-sand desert and its bewildering rock formations. This afternoon you will be able to enjoy a jeep safari visiting sand dunes, petroglyphs and canyons. End your afternoon reflecting on your adventure as you watch the magnificent sunset over the desert.

Tonight we stay in traditional Bedouin tents, complete with beds, private bathroom and communal seating area. This location is perfect for stargazing. You will enjoy a traditional dinner cooked by your Bedouin hosts and learn about how the Zarb is cooked using the earth oven.

Included Excursions

Visit Little Petra,Overnight desert experience in Wadi Rum including 2 hour 4X4 jeep tour

Accommodation

1 night(s) camping at Desert Rose Camp or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s), 1 Dinner(s)

Day 6 Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea via Karak

Today we head towards the city of Karak where you will find an ancient fortified castle perched high on top of a hill nestled within the heart of the local town. Built by the Crusaders in the 12th century its strategic position allows for views as far as the Dead Sea on a clear day.

After exploring this fascinating crusader castle you will continue to the Dead Sea. Here you will have time to soak up the experiences you have had whilst in Jordan. You have the option to relax by the pool, float in the Dead Sea at the lowest point on earth, or perhaps even have a mud bath along the shoreline.

This afternoon you will say goodbye to your tour leader as they will leave you in the safe and comfortable hands of the hotel customer service team.

Included Excursions

Visit Karak Castle

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Ramada Resort or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 7 Dead Sea

Today you have a full free day to enjoy the Dead Sea which is notable for its deep blue waters made up of Dead Sea salts and minerals. Make the most of your relaxation time while appreciating the magnificent surrounding views of the Jordanian East Coast. The hotel customer service team will be there to assist you with anything you may need.

You will also have the opportunity to visit Bethany Beyond the Jordan - the archaeological site of Bethany which is believed to be the site where Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist. Only recently excavated you can see a number of different churches, baptismal pools and prayer hall which all date back to the Byzantine and Roman period. Not only can you visit the baptism site of Jesus but you will be able to touch the River Jordan and perhaps observe as people are also baptised in this holy river. Just metres over the river you will see people visiting the same spot from the Holy Land of Israel & Palestine.

Included Excursions

Full day at the Dead Sea

Optional Excursions

Bethany Beyond the Jordan (excluding transport) – JOD 12

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Ramada Resort or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 08 Depart Dead Sea

Your adventure of a lifetime comes to an end today. If you have a late flight or have lengthened your stay by adding post tour accommodation you will have more time to explore the sights.

If you would like to arrange transfers back to Amman airport then you can pre-book this with Tucan Travel prior to travel. If you wish to book a transfer on the ground then the hotel will be able to assist.

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Tour Map

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