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We think if you’re jetting off to experience an architectural wonder of the ancient world, you should really experience it. Bumping into the luminous city of Petra in a steamy minibus and being herded round the sights just doesn’t cut it. So sit back and let us tell you how we’d put a bit more wonder into your ancient experience.
On this trip look forward to…
- Understanding why Lawrence of Arabia called Wadi Rum’s moon-like rock
- Exploring the ancient city of Petra, which really lives up to the hype
- Seeing the colossal ruins of Shobak Castle which once guarded the road from Damascus to Egypt
- Star gazing from your camp at Al Hillawi in miles of open desert
the seven hills of amman
Here, there are colourful souks, elegant mosques and the famous citadel, where you can have a peek at the temple of Hercules. In nearby Jeresh explore the ancient amphitheatres, baths and colonnades which make this one of the world’s best preserved Roman cities.
jordanAnd why not scout round Moses’ resting place at Mount Nebo, take a look in at the magnificent crusader fortress at Kerak or a relaxed walk around the mosaics of Madaba, all within easy distance?
soak up the luxury
There’s enough to see in Jordan to keep you driving around the desert all week, but that would never do. There’ll be five star hotels waiting for you at the end of every day where you can empty the sand out of your pockets, take a swim or just relax with a gourmet supper. And for a little bit of authenticity we’d recommend a night in the traditional Al Hillawi camp, where you can relax under the stars like a real Bedouin…albeit a very spoilt one.
wadirum valley
indiana jones adventures
Al Hillawi, explore the sandstone valley of Wadi Rum, and from there the journey continues off to Little Petra. Once part of an ancient caravan route, this site is crammed with tombs, temples, triclinia houses and frescoed plasterwork: a great introduction to its more famous sister.
the magic of petra
Your next port of call is the craggy landscapes of Shobak Castle, from where you’ll find the final destination: Petra. Hidden behind an almost impenetrable barrier of rocky mountains, this majestic, rose-coloured city has enthralled visitors for centuries. Wander around the incredible carved stone architecture to your heart’s content and get acquainted with the immense Al Deir monastery and the stunning Al Khazneh (the treasury).
the dead sea
Take a well-deserved mini pilgrimage to the Dead Sea for a spot of flotation and some wind-down pampering at the superb Kempinski Hotel Ishtar. You’ll return home brimming with memories of desert landscapes and armed with tales of temples and towering castles for your friends. Who knows, maybe you’ll inspire a little wonder in them.
amman at night
wadi rum valley
