JORDAN

After running over 100 trips in Jordan we have decided for 2011 to change the format.

We recognise that the financial climate has altered and so have combined our trips to Syria and Jordan in such a way as to allow you more choice.  You can join us for our itinerary which combines these ancient lands or elect to simply join us in Amman to explore our home from home - Jordan  

Jordan is a young nation but an ancient land that is steeped in history.  Amman, the capitol, was originally named Philadelphia for the Roman Emperor Philadelphis.  Jesus was baptised in the River Jordan and it was from Mt Nebo that Moses showed his people the Promised Land.  “Lawrence of Arabia” made his base in Wadi Rum before his attack on Aqaba where, by the way, is the site of the worlds oldest  church!  PETRA is the name on everyone’s lips however.  Only recently acknowledged as one of the wonders of the world Petra is now a World Heritage Site  Here, hidden in the wilderness of the mountains above Wadi Araba  are the stunning remains of a once great city of trade on the very edge of Arabia.  Dig has climbed and hiked here for 14 years and if asked if he never tires of Petra will tell you that, apart from his love of the place, each year brings new discoveries as archaeologists continue to explore.  Just four years ago the Great Temple was not open to us while today we discover it’s charm en route to the Triclinium, Garden Temple and High Place of Sacrifice.  Dig’s own discoveries over the years, made with the help of the Bedul, mean you will have the chance to hike off the beaten track !

ITINERARY

DAY 1
Those travelling down from Damascus/Syria with Dig will arrive at the Retaj Hotel by 5pm.  Those who are coming directly to Amman/Jordan will be collected at Queen Alia Airport for transfer to the Retaj.  For late arrivals a dinner will be available until late.

DAY 2
From Amman we drop to the lowest point on earth – The Dead Sea.  The “Sea” is by far the saltiest water on earth and results in incredible buoyancy in addition to which, we are told, beauty and health benefits are guaranteed  so we will test the theory !  Later we reach the Crusader Castle  of Karak  where an excellent buffet lunch will be served.   Later we continue over the high plateau by one of the worlds oldest trade routes – The Kings Highway.  We will arrive in Wadi Mousa (Service village at Petra entrance) in time to relax before dinner.  To help you understand Petra and it’s history Dig will give a talk before dinner.  First night at Petra.

DAY 3
This is a full day hiking and exploring the incredible city and mountains that were once home to Nabataeans, Romans and Crusaders.  We will descend by the narrow canyon of 3 klms to the famous Treasury, onwards under the Eastern Tombs and then, escaping the crowds, we hike by an unusual route to the High Place of Sacrifice.  Our return will be over the hills and through gullies that tourists never see.  We will return to our hotel in time to relax and enjoy a beer before dinner.  Second night at Petra.
( Hiking totals 8 miles with 600ft ascent)

DAY 4
An early start will see us drive 8 miles to the lesser known but charming Little Petra.  An early start usually means we have the canyon and treasures to ourselves ! Later, having collected a picnic, our route in Petra itself is totally weather dependant.  If there is not the slightest chance of rain in the mountains we will explore a little known but quite wonderful slot canyon that leads to the far end of Petra where few visitors reach.  From here an intriguing route leads to an isolated but splendid look out over the Treasury and Canyon far below.  Later we return by the Eastern Tombs perhaps taking time to enjoy a coffee with that lovable old rougue Saleh !  In the extremely unlikely event of rain we will hike to the Monastery with panoramic views over the Wadi Araba – another splendid route but one that will mean we encounter other visitors.  Third night at Petra.
(Hiking totals 7 miles but proceeding slowly for 1 mile of the canyon and with 650ft ascent)

DAY 5
We depart Petra by traversing the high plateau to stop at the Ras al Naqab to learn a little about T.E.Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia)  – after all it was here that he stopped the Arab army in 1917 simply to allow himself time to drink in distant Wadi Rum and her fabled peaks.  We will arrive in Wadi Rum village in time to take lunch in the home of our old friend Salim Almoktar (His wife Katmai is an excellent cook).  Later we will explore part of his desert visiting the Spring of Lawrence and Kazali canyon before arriving at our camp for the night. 
Note:  Our camp in the desert is not primitive.  Though there will not be showers, water is available for washing etc.  Dinner under the stars will be a feast.

DAY 6
Sunrise in the desert is wonderful especially when followed by breakfast looking out to Kazali canyon.  Later we hike and camel ride to further explore the gorgeous lunar landscape of Wadi Rum before a desert lunch in the wilderness.  Later we rejoin our mini bus for return to Amman and the comfort of the Retaj Hotel.  Our Farewell dinner will be at one of Dig’s favourite Arab restaurants.

DAY 7
We depart for the airport and home.

A FINAL WORD
Most travellers these days ask – is it safe ?  This is a region that benefits greatly from the positive aspects of Islam and I have met with unexpected kindness more often here than anywhere else.  After many years I can say I have never met with hostility but have been treated first as an honoured guest and later as an old friend.  Despite my words however one should always check with the State department web site for the latest advisory and contact me for my latest news.  I spend 3 months a year in Jordan and Syria and can be found at Dig5-@hotmail.com  

TOUR PRICE:  $1,510 per person sharing Double or Twin room.  Single supplement $220 (When rooms are available)  Price includes all meals, entries, tips – there are no further costs other than drinks 

GROUP SIZE: Limited to 12 plus Dig and driver

TRANSPORT: By comfortable air conditioned mini bus (Dig drives one with a second by Amjad Omish) 

ACCOMMODATIONS:
The Hotel Retaj (Amman) – 2 nights.  A modern/ comfortable hotel we have now used for 3 years.
The Kingsway, Petra – 3 nights.  A modern / comfortable hotel we have used for 12 years.
1 night camping with Salim in Wadi Rum