AMMAN to AMMAN (8 days) A Week in Jordan
Overview
Embarking on an 8-day journey through the enchanting landscapes and rich history of Jordan is not just a trip; it’s an unforgettable adventure that immerses you in a world where ancient wonders and natural beauty converge. Begin your exploration on the Harmony Trail, where the spiritual echoes of the Baptism Site at Bethany invite reflection and connection to the past. Wander through the mesmerizing ruins of Jerash, a testament to Roman ingenuity, before delving into the vibrant capital of Amman, where modern life meets deep-rooted traditions.
Your adventure continues to Petra, the rose-red city carved from rock, where each corner reveals a story waiting to be discovered. Travel along the scenic Kings Highway, where breathtaking views lead you to Madaba’s stunning mosaics and the imposing Kerak Castle, a reminder of the region’s storied past. Experience the thrill of a jeep safari in Wadi Rum, where towering sandstone mountains and vast deserts create a surreal backdrop, perfect for capturing unforgettable memories. As you float effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, you’ll appreciate the unique wonders that only this region can offer. Explore the hidden gems of Jordan’s desert castles and nature reserves, each telling tales of ancient civilizations and breathtaking ecosystems. This is more than just a vacation; it’s a chance to step into a living museum, a land of contrasts and adventures that beckons every traveler. Join us on this remarkable journey and let Jordan unveil its secrets, one extraordinary experience at a time.
Route Map
Click map to enlarge
Includes
- Accommodation in 3 & 4-star hotels (upgrades available)
- 1 night in a comfortable Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum
- All transport and transfers in AC minibus/coach
- 24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
- Professional local tour guide escorts groups of all sizes
- 4x4 jeep safari in Wadi Rum
- Entrance to Dead Sea beach with towel & showers
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary (all breakfasts, one lunch & one dinner)
Excludes
- International flights (available on request)
- Visa fees (free visa included as part of your Jordan Pass)
- Entrance fees (included with your Jordan Pass, obtained in advance for JD78, approx. USD110)
- Travel insurance (compulsory, available from Encounters Travel)
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Hotel gala dinner supplements if applicable (24 & 31 Dec)
- Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
- Tips
- Any other items not mentioned above
Trip Itinerary
Days 1 Arrive in Amman. Hotel transfers included
Once you've landed at the airport, we'll be there to meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Jordan's bustling capital city of Amman. After helping you check in and pointing you to any local shops, cafes or restaurants, you're free to explore Amman independently before our sightseeing starts tomorrow.
Overnight: Amman 4-star hotel
Days 2 Exploring the Harmony Trail & the Baptism site at Bethany
We start the day with a visit to the hilltop town of As-Salt, which once served as a trading link between the Jordan Valley and the Eastern Desert. As-Salt is known for its impressive old Islamic architecture which was built using yellow limestone.
Today, the town serves as an example of the religious and cultural friendship between the local Muslim & Christian population. To learn more about As-Salt, we'll head out on a walking tour of its 'Harmony Trail', which will give you greater insight into the lives of the locals.
We'll have lunch with a local family today, giving you your first taste of Jordanian cuisine (this is group size dependent, if the group is too large, we will head to a local restaurant).
After lunch, we make our way to the Baptism site at Bethany, which is an excavated site believed to the place where John baptised Jesus Christ. Many churches, caves and pools dating back to Roman & Byzantine periods have been found here. We'll also visit three of its most important sites: Tell Mar Elias, the Baptism Pools and John the Baptist's Church.
We'll return to our hotel in Amman where we'll spend the night.
(Breakfast)
Overnight: Amman 4-star hotel
Days 3 Exploring Jerash and Amman
We start the day by heading north out of Amman to nearby Jerash, one of the largest and most well-preserved sites of Roman architecture in the world outside Italy. Fondly referred to as the 'Jewel of the North', Jerash boasts an unbroken chain of human occupation dating back more than 6,500 years.
Jerash was hidden for centuries in sand, evacuations and restorations over the past 70 years have revealed a fine example of the grand, formal provincial Roman urbanism that is found throughout the Middle East.
After returning from Jerash we spend the afternoon exploring Amman, commonly known as the 'white city' due to its sheer number of white limestone buildings. Amman's rich history dates back many millennia, with numerous excavations and renovations uncovering remains from the Neolithic period as well as the Hellenistic and late Roman to Arab Islamic Ages.
Our tour will include the Citadel - the former home of the ancient Temple of Hercules, The Umayyad Palace and the Byzantine Church. We'll also visit the 6000-seat Roman Theatre - which dates to the Roman period, when the city was known as Philadelphia.
(Breakfast)
Overnight: Amman 4-star hotel
Days 4 Full day exploration of Petra, camping underneath the stars in Wadi Rum
Today is all about exploring the Nabatean site of Petra. It was once the ancient capital of the Nabataean commercial empire until the Romans finally took over in 106AD. For a long period of time, Petra was forgotten - except by the local Bedouins - before it was rediscovered in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. Petra can be found at the edge of the Wadi Aruba desert, where canyon walls and towering hills make it virtually impossible to reach, except via a narrow cleft in the rock, known as the Siq. There are very few free-standing buildings in Petra, as the Nabateans chose to carve their dwellings into the multi coloured sandstone cliffs. Petra has become one of Jordan's main tourist attractions and the Jordanian Government is well aware of this. The tourism infrastructure in the adjoining village of Wadi Musa is booming, though, thankfully, once you enter through the Siq, the site is protected, there aren't that many touts or souvenir sellers, and all the building feels miles away.
We have most of the day available today to explore this ancient city (2-3 hour guided tour, then free time to explore independently). We start by making our way through the Siq, which rises to 200 metres above us and narrows to just 2 metres wide in certain sections. Keep an eye out for the ancient Nabatean water channel which is still visible on one wall and there are remnants of the terracotta pipes that brought water into the city as well. We'll turn a corner and suddenly - one of the most familiar sights of Petra will be in front of you - The Khazneh (Treasury) comes into view. Our guide will explain how this, and the other buildings here, are mainly elaborate facades carved into the rock from the top down, and also discuss the spiritual significance of the building style.
From the Treasury, the valley opens out, and you'll see tombs carved into the rock on both sides. You'll get a glimpse of the ruined Roman amphitheatre and colonnaded streets and during your free time, you can walk up a steep and narrow winding gorge to the towering 'Monastery' - which is 50 metres high and 45 metres wide, giving you breath-taking views of the Wadi Aruba desert and the Jordan Valley. Another climb takes you to the High Place of Sacrifice, and Lion Fountain. All in all, this is a full and tiring exercise, but hugely rewarding day touring one of the world's most famous ancient sites.
Walking distances today are an absolute minimum of 3km through the Siq to the Treasury and back and to see a few tombs, 8km to take the trail on as far as the main basin, plus an additional few km to the Monastery and back (over 800 steps up and down). For those with less mobility or who are worried about the distance, horse carriages are available for around 20JD (USD 28) to take you on the 1.2km journey through the Siq to the Treasury and back again at an agreed time. They will also take you further in through the site for an extra fee. We do not recommend riding the horses that are available. Donkeys are available for the steps up to the Monastery - if you want to use them, we'd reommend doing this on the way up, not on the way down.
Later in the afternoon, we leave Petra and drive into the spectacular desert scenery of Wadi Rum where friendly Bedouin hosts are ready to greet us at a comfortable camp beneath the towering rocks and cliffs. We spend the evening and night relaxing at the camp, watching the stars and enjoying a delicious traditional Jordanian meal.
(Breakfast, Dinner)
Overnight: Wadi Rum Bedouin camp
Days 5 King's Highway to Petra with stops at Madaba & Kerak Castle
We leave Amman behind us today as we drive along the scenic King's Highway to Petra. The drive is a beautiful one as we cross deep wadis, pass through olive groves and remote rural villages, giving you a unique insight into the daily lives of the locals.
Our first stop will be at Madaba, as we visit the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George - famed for its 6th century Byzantine Mosaic map of the Holy Land and other biblical sites. Next, we'll venture up Mount Nebo, which offers breath-taking views of the Holy Land.
We'll hit the road once more, this time crossing the beautiful Wadi al-Mujib, which winds through olive groves before it traverses up over a deep canyon until we reach Kerak Castle, which forms part of several Crusader castles built during the 12th century on the Egypt-Syrian caravan route.
Upon arrival in Petra, we'll check into the hotel and the evening is free for you to relax and explore. An option is available to get a first taste of Petra itself with the atmospheric Petra by Candlelight tour through the Siq to the Treasury.
Overnight: Petra 3-star hotel
Days 6 A Jeep safari in Wadi Rum & Dead Sea Swim
We start the day early, exploring the beautiful desert and mountain scenery of Wadi Rum. Keep an eye out for the copper-coloured rocky 'jebels', which mesmerised TE Lawrence during his visits to the desert during the Arab Revolt and was later famed in the movie Lawrence of Arabia. We'll take a jeep safari through the beautiful desert scenery, seeing more of the sheer cliffs and bizarre rock formations.
We say goodbye to Wadi Rum later in the morning and head north towards the Dead Sea, one of the planet's most spectacular destinations. Not only is it the lowest point on earth, coming in at 400 metres below sea level, it's also considered to be one of the world's most spiritual landscapes, filled with dramatic, natural wonders.
The Dead Sea is fed by numerous rivers, including the River Jordan. Once the waters reach the Dead Sea they are land-locked and have nowhere to go, so they evaporate, leaving behind a dense, rich, cocktail of salts and minerals that supply industry, agriculture and medicine with some of its finest products.
The Dead Sea is flanked by mountains to the east and the rolling hills of Jerusalem to the west, giving it an almost otherworldly beauty. Although sparsely populated and serenely quiet now, the area is believed to have been home to five Biblical cities: Sodom, Gomorrah, Adman, Zebouin and Zoar (Bela).
We'll stop along the way to enjoy a 'swim', though the intensely salty waters lead to a very strange swimming experience. In fact, normal swimming is not possible, and it is easier (and more photogenic!) just to float, sitting or lying in the water. Be careful not to get any water in your eyes, as it will sting.Showers will be available where we swim to clean off the salt water afterwards. If you'd like some additional time at the Dead Sea for spa treatments and/or relaxation, we also offer the option of spending your final night in Jordan here instead of returning to Amman.
We finish the day back at our hotel in Amman.
(Breakfast)
Overnight: Amman 4-star hotel
Days 7 Desert Castles and Nature Reserves
After breakfast we leave Amman and head east to visit several of Jordan's Desert Castles - a fantastic reminder of its early Islamic art and architecture. These 'castles' were located on the old trade routes created during the Umayyad era and are more a combination of forts, bath houses and palaces than true castles. You can still see some mosaics, frescoes, carvings and illustrations on show, moulded by Persian and Graeco-Roman traditions, giving an insight into life during the 8th century. We'll explore the desert castles of Qasr al-Kharrana, Qal'at al-Azraq and Qseirr Amra and also visit two important nature reserves run by the Jordanian Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN). The Aqraq Wetland Reserve is a uniquely precious oasis located in the heart of Jordan’s eastern desert, between a limestone desert in the west and a basalt desert in the east. The reserve features lush marshland, and glittering pools and streams that are a haven for migratory birds on the African-Eurasian flyway. The Shaumari Wildlife Reserve was initially created as a breeding and reintroduction centre for globally threatened and locally extinct wildlife, particularly the Arabian Oryx. These efforts continue and now a wide variety of rare animals make their home in the reserve, including Ostriches Struthio camelus, Goitered Gazelles, and Persian Onagers. Also found in the area are red foxes, wolves, striped hyenas, Caracals and wild cats, while bird sightings can include Imperial Eagles, Pallid Harriers and Egyptian vultures. There is a good visitor centre on site and guided safaris may be available into the reserve before we return to Amman depending on the time we have available and the reserve's current arrangements. For your last evening, why not head into Downtown Amman for a final taste of Jordanian food, perhaps giving Jordan's national dish of Mansaf a go, or the classic falafel and hummus, with a taste of Knafeh, a popular sweet desert to finish.
(Breakfast)
Overnight: Amman 4-star hotel
Days 8 Free time in Amman. Airport transfer included
You have the day free to catch up on some last-minute sightseeing or shopping in Amman before your departure flight. Alternatively, you may wish to take one of several optional day trips. These include a full day tour to the Baptism site at Bethany and Ajloun Castle, a trip to Pella and Umm Qai or a tour of the 'Desert Castles'.
We can also arrange a transfer to Tel Aviv either by flight or overland for people wanting to connect this tour with one of our Israel tours. Finally, we can also fly you to Cairo to join one of our Egypt tours. Please ask us for full details and we'll be delighted to help plan an extension to your tour.
(Breakfast)
Overnight: N/A
Essential Information
Essential Information About Your Trip
Arrival & Accommodation
Trip Joining Point: La Casa Hotel - Amman
Start Time Day 1: You can arrive into Amman at any time on day 1 - hotel check-in is from 2pm.
Address: Natfeh Street, Amman, Jordan
Website: https://www.lacasaamman.com/
*Please note that the above hotel is subject to change, we will confirm the final tour starting point approximately 2 weeks prior to departure.
All prices listed are approximate and subject to limited availability.
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Room Type |
Price |
Description |
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Single |
£79.00 |
Per Room, En-suite |
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Double/Twin |
£98.00 |
Per Room, En-suite |
The trip starts in Amman on day 1. Day 1 is set aside for arrivals and you can arrive at any time on day 1. The hotel check-in time is from 2pm onwards.
PRE-TRIP ACCOMMODATION:
You can pre-book accommodation and your included airport transfers through us. We will require your flight number, arrival time, and arrival date so please ensure this information is forwarded to us as soon as you have booked your flight. Please book this service as soon as you have booked your flight and no later than 3 weeks prior to departure. If you have booked through a travel agent, please contact them to request pre-trip accommodation and airport transfers.
Where extra nights are required, your airport transfer is only included on your pre/post-tour day if the extra night is also booked with Oasis Overland.
Double, twin, and triple rooms will be provided subject to availability, where requested. However when not available we may need to book other rooming arrangements, and will fit these as closely as possible to your request. Those travelling solo will be put in shared rooms to reduce the costs to them if this option is available, where a same sex room share cannot be arranged, the single room supplement will be payable.
If you are arriving early in the morning and you would like to check in immediately, you may have to reserve your room for the previous night to ensure direct check in, otherwise you may have to wait until normal check in times (usually 2pm).
AIRPORT TRANSFERS:
Airport Arrival and Departure Transfers are included in the cost of your adventure (provided you request these via the UK office or your account 3 weeks before your departure).
You will be met next to Starbucks in the arrivals hall of Amman airport, after you have been through passport control, collected your luggage and been through the final security check point. We strongly recommend you obtain a Jordan Pass before you leave home as this provides a free entry visa and discounted entrance fees in Jordan. Make sure you have printed your Jordan Pass out and show it at the immigration desk with your passport to obtain your visa. Our representative will be holding an Encounters Travel signboard or have your names displayed. Please look out for them and introduce yourself. Our rep will then drive you to your hotel. Please call the numbers above if you do not find them straight away.
Post Trip Accommodation and Airport Transfers
Post-trip accommodation can be requested and booked by the Oasis Office before your trip commences, please email info@oasisoverland.co.uk. Airport transfers are included on the final day of your tour or on post-tour days if your accommodation is also booked via Oasis Overland.
Flight Information
Day 1 in your departure city, is an arrivals day. For your convenience we would advise that you arrive at the latest, on the afternoon of this day, though as no activities are planned for this day, you can arrive at any time. You may wish to allow some extra time to explore your arrival and departure cities.
Departing flights: You can leave Amman at any time on the final day of your tour.
There are many online flight search engines such as www.skyscanner.net or www.ebookers.co.uk flights can also be booked direct with airline websites or through travel agencies. Please inform us of your flight details through your online account, as airport transfers can be arranged for various trips.
One way ticket: If you intend to travel on a one way ticket to meet up with one of our trips, without possessing an onward flight ticket - we recommend that you have a copy of your payment confirmation/receipt (that you will be sent at time of your balance payment) available at immigration to assist easy entry.
Passports
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months AFTER your trip finishes. This is a general requirement for all of the countries we travel to on our trips.
If you have dual nationality you can only use one passport for the entire trip. It is your responsibility to ensure you have all the relevant visas you require.
Visas
Jordan
Passport holders from the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, South Africa and most EU countries can obtain the visa on arrival in Jordan. The visa costs 40 JOD and is valid for 30 days.
Overland Tours - we will apply for a Jordan Wanderer Pass for anyone travelling through Jordan on an overland tour. This pass includes your entry visa as well as entrance fees to many sites in Jordan. We will email you the relevant details before your trip departs. Please make sure you print this information before travelling; if you forget it and have to buy another visa at the border, it will be at your own cost.
Small Group & Family Tours - Passports should be valid for at least six months after your departure from the country. Please do not bring an almost full or almost expired passport. Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities.
To promote tourism to the country, the Jordanian government has designed the Jordan Pass. This provides adults of most nationalities with a free single entry Jordan visa (for stays of 3 nights or more), a discounted package of entrance fees, and free digital brochures for the various sites in Jordan. Please check the Jordan Pass tour note for more information.
Double or multi entry visas for Jordan are no longer available and you will need to arrange two visas if you are doing a combination tour (eg. with Egypt and/or Israel) that visits Jordan more than once. Exceptions may occur if you are crossing to and from Israel via the King Hussein Bridge - please contact us for details.
If you wish to arrange your visa separately in advance, or if your stay will be shorter than four days/3 nights, then a visa fee of 40JD (approx. USD 57) will be due.
Families with children under 12 are recommended not to purchase the Jordan Pass for the children as entrance fees are not charged in Jordan for children under 12. Instead, the adults should purchase a Jordan Pass and we will arrange a free visa for the children which you will receive when we meet you on arrival into Amman airport.
Other nationalities may require a visa prior to arrival and to obtain this in advance, please contact your local Jordanian embassy or consulate or a visa agency for details. In addition, if you plan to enter Jordan via the southern Wadi Araba crossing (Eilat-Aqaba) or the Allenby Bridge/King Hussein border with Israel in the north, you will need to obtain your Jordan visa in advance as these are not available on arrival at the border.
Jordan
Passport holders from the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, South Africa and most EU countries can obtain the visa on arrival in Jordan. The visa costs 40 JOD and is valid for 30 days.
Overland Tours - we will apply for a Jordan Wanderer Pass for anyone travelling through Jordan on an overland tour. This pass includes your entry visa as well as entrance fees to many sites in Jordan. We will email you the relevant details before your trip departs. Please make sure you print this information before travelling; if you forget it and have to buy another visa at the border, it will be at your own cost.
Small Group & Family Tours - Passports should be valid for at least six months after your departure from the country. Please do not bring an almost full or almost expired passport. Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities.
To promote tourism to the country, the Jordanian government has designed the Jordan Pass. This provides adults of most nationalities with a free single entry Jordan visa (for stays of 3 nights or more), a discounted package of entrance fees, and free digital brochures for the various sites in Jordan. Please check the Jordan Pass tour note for more information.
Double or multi entry visas for Jordan are no longer available and you will need to arrange two visas if you are doing a combination tour (eg. with Egypt and/or Israel) that visits Jordan more than once. Exceptions may occur if you are crossing to and from Israel via the King Hussein Bridge - please contact us for details.
If you wish to arrange your visa separately in advance, or if your stay will be shorter than four days/3 nights, then a visa fee of 40JD (approx. USD 57) will be due.
Families with children under 12 are recommended not to purchase the Jordan Pass for the children as entrance fees are not charged in Jordan for children under 12. Instead, the adults should purchase a Jordan Pass and we will arrange a free visa for the children which you will receive when we meet you on arrival into Amman airport.
Other nationalities may require a visa prior to arrival and to obtain this in advance, please contact your local Jordanian embassy or consulate or a visa agency for details. In addition, if you plan to enter Jordan via the southern Wadi Araba crossing (Eilat-Aqaba) or the Allenby Bridge/King Hussein border with Israel in the north, you will need to obtain your Jordan visa in advance as these are not available on arrival at the border.
Vaccinations and Health
It is possible that you may require some vaccinations for your trip, depending on the areas that you are visiting. As we are not medically trained, we are unable to give detailed advice on vaccination requirements. We have worked closely with Nomad Travel Clinics for many years and they offer Oasis travellers a 10% discount on vaccinations, anti- malarial drugs, first aid items, clothing and equipment, just enter discount code OASIS1000 at www.nomadtravel.co.uk. Alternatively you can check out the fit for travel website for more travel health information or consult a reputable travel clinic or your GP for information and advice. We suggest that you allow at least 8 weeks to get all your vaccinations.
Health - To join our trips you should be in good general health. Your medical insurance company must be told if you have any pre-existing medical condition / allergy or if you are on any regular medication, otherwise you may not be covered under your policies for these. Our crew will need to know of any medication or conditions you may have. For general health advice log onto www.nathnac.org/travel/
Travel Insurance
It is a compulsory requirement that you have adequate travel insurance before you join any Oasis Trip & at the very least are insured for all necessary medical & repatriation costs incurred.
You will be asked to provide the following details in My Oasis Account if you have not already done so: travel insurance name, insurance policy number & insurance emergency telephone number. You will also be required to give a copy of your policy with this information to your Tour Leader on arrival with confirmation that the policy duration is sufficient to cover you for the entire duration of your trip. It is also wise to leave a copy of your insurance policy with a friend or relative for safe keeping.
We believe that your safety and holiday enjoyment are very important. It is a mistake to think that "it will never happen to me". It is also very important that you are covered for all the activities that you may wish to undertake while on our trip. It is extremely important that you check the full extent of your cover related to 24 hour Medical Emergency Assistance. In the event of you needing medical treatment you want to know that you have the best cover available to you. Your policy should include adequate Medical Emergency and Repatriation cover as well as Cancellation, Baggage and Personal Liability cover. You need to be aware of EXACTLY what activities your policy covers you for. Please note that skiing is not usually covered in most insurance policies.
We offer tailor made Overland Adventure Travel Insurance that covers most of the adventure and sporting activities on our trips.
For further information on the insurance we offer, the activities covered and costs, check out the Travel Insurance section of our website. You can purchase our insurance by logging into My Oasis Account and click 'Buy Insurance' or through the following link.
Money, Budgets and LP
Spending Money
From past trips and travellers feedback £20 to £30 per day per person, should cover costs such as meals not included, soft drinks and beers, email & communications, souvenirs and other general spending. Personal spending habits & budgets differ greatly from person to person. Budget on optional activities separately (see optional excursions page). Please bring cash in Euros / GBP£ / US$ to exchange once in Jordanian Dinar or use the ATM's in the main cities.
Changing money
Change your money only at banks, hotels, airports or forex bureaus. It is illegal to change money on the street, as these people will normally be opportunistic thieves or undercover police. Your crew will advise you where & when you can change money & with what means. It is also a good idea to have a small CASH emergency fund, to allow for the unexpected.
Credit & Debit Cards
A combination of several types are suggested as not all types are accepted in all places. Visa & Maestro are best, MasterCard has limited access through parts of Jordan, but is generally accepted in ATMs. We recommend that you inform your bank that you will be using your card abroad to avoid it being blocked. Please see the optional excursions page for activities that can be paid for using a Credit or Debit Card. Commission rates vary between 2 to 5%.
Pre-Paid Travel Currency Cards
These cards are similar to normal Credit and Debit cards but they can be pre loaded with cash before you travel with a set amount allowing you to withdraw this cash using the card at normal ATMs. It is a more secure way to access cash on your trip and easier to use than travellers cheques, but again do not rely on these as your sole means of funds on a trip - (please refer to the ATM section). Several banks and companies now offer these cards, but be sure to look into the rates for withdrawing cash when making your decision.
ATMs
These are available in most major cities along our route and allow you to withdraw local currency only. We discourage you from relying on your ATM card as a primary source of funds in case it is lost/stolen/swallowed, or the machine isn't working. Besides memorising your PIN, it is also important to be aware of your daily withdrawal limit and bank withdrawal costs.
Tipping
Tipping for services provided is part of the local culture in Jordan, is often expected, and will be very gratefully received. While the amount you tip is subject to your satisfaction with the services provided and your personal budget, we are often asked for help and guidelines and can therefore suggest that you allow approx.:
Tour guides: US$8-10 per person per day
Drivers: US$3-5 per person per day
Restaurants: 10% or leave the change
Petra horse boys: US$2-5 (we recommend against riding the horses for animal welfare and safety concerns, but the boys may still expect a tip)
Entrance Fees
The tour price does not include entrance fees to the sites visited on the tour.
We strongly recommend that you purchase a Jordan Pass prior to your travel to Jordan. This is a special package that has been designed by the Jordanian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities for tourists visiting Jordan. As well as including a discounted package of entrance fees covering all the sites in Jordan that you will visit on this tour (plus many others), the Jordan Pass also provides free downloadable digital brochures on each attraction, plus a free tourist visa for entering the country (40JD if obtained on arrival in Jordan). It also allows us to speed up our entry to each site as if everyone has the Jordan Pass we won't need to queue for tickets.
A handful of sites that we visit on our tours are not covered by the Jordan Pass (eg. Mt. Nebo, St. George's Church at Madaba, and the Shawmuri & Azraq Reserves), so to keep things simple for you while you are in Jordan, where these are visited in our itineraries, the entry fees are included in your tour price. If you visit any other sites not covered by the Jordan Pass during your free time or on additional tours you arrange while in Jordan, you will need to pay the entrance fee at the site.
The cost for the Jordan Wanderer Pass which is suitable for all our tours which visit Petra on one day is JD70 (approx. US$99). You should also check if your tour visits the Baptism Site at Bethany and if it does, add on the supplement for this site (an extra JD8, discounted from the JD12 payable at the site). Passes are available by completing a simple online form before you travel, taking care to make sure your passport details are entered correctly as this doubles as your visa application. Your Jordan Pass will then be emailed to you as a pdf document, which you should print out and bring with you. You will then need to show this print out at the immigration desk on arrival in Jordan to obtain your free entry visa, and also at each attraction where it will be scanned to confirm your entry. Obtain your Jordan Pass here
If you do not obtain the Jordan Pass before arriving in Jordan, you will need to pay the entry fees when you arrive at each site and also pay JD40 for your Jordan visa when you enter the country (or arrange your visa in advance).
What To Take
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Toiletries - Most available to buy on trip |
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Clothes |
Personal Effects |
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Recommended Medical Kit List |
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Photography and Electrical Equipment
Cameras (incl. Digital & Video Cameras) - An easy to use 'point and press' will get you some good photos. For memorable shots, it may be worthwhile investing in an SLR camera, but be sure to get some practice in before the trip! Most towns and cities have internet cafes where you can download onto CD/internet sites - but don't rely on it.
Photography - Be aware of your surroundings when taking photographs and filming. Some locations will be sensitive or have local laws banning photography. For example it is usually forbidden to use cameras at borders or around government buildings, military installations, bridges and airports or to take photos of local officials. If you do take photos or film where it is not permitted you may find yourself being questioned by irate officials who may decide to confiscate your camera or instruct you to delete all the images/footage on your device. If in doubt ask for permission, or if there is no-one to ask use some common sense.
Drones - As the use of drones becomes more common, countries throughout the world are gradually updating their laws and restrictions on usage. The specific regulations will vary from one country to another, so do check the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office advice for the latest information. As with cameras, use your common sense if you do use a drone and avoid operation in sensitive areas. If you plan to bring a drone on your trip with us please contact us first to ensure there will be a suitable place to store it while on your trip.
Electrical charging & power supply - It may be difficult to find a power source for charging at times, so a spare battery is a must. Log onto www.whatplug.net for information regarding the different electrical plugs and voltage used in each country.
Contacting Home
The internet and WiFi are available in many towns / cities you will visit. Do bear in mind that the connections can be unreliable and will not always be as fast as you are used to at home. If a lot of people try to use the internet at the same time the speed will be slower still, especially if trying to make Skype calls or upload photos / videos. During periods of the trip where we are wild camping, internet will be less common.
Some travellers choose to take an unlocked mobile phone with them and buy local SIM cards or E-Sim in each country, allowing them to use mobile data. If you particularly want or need regular internet access this may be a good option. Telephone calls can be expensive usually £1 to £5 for a three minute call.
Online Diaries - A great variety of free "travel blogs" are now available online, they are a good way of keeping relatives and friend up to date with what you are doing and a good place to upload photos, collecting messages as well as keeping a record for yourself.
Responsible Travel
Before you go
- Remove unnecessary packaging before you go - waste disposal facilities are often stretched or non existent in the places we visit. To avoid unnecessary pollution of local water supplies take environmentally friendly toiletries with you.
- Why not invest in a wind-up or solar-powered torch or media player before you travel or at least rechargeable batteries.
- Learn some of the local language and read up on the local history/culture before you go. You'll get so much more out of your trip.
- Why not pack some pens/pencils exercise books in your rucksack and they can be donated to a local school or project while you're away. You can also purchase these items cheaply, locally which will help local businesses.
- Take a sturdy water bottle with you from home that you can re-use throughout your trip. We carry large quantities of purified water with us on our Expedition vehicles and it is much better for the environment if you drink this, rather than purchase bottled water along the way. (It also saves you money).
- Water-to-Go: Oasis Overland have partnered with Water-to-Go to help reduce the number of plastic water bottles consumed during a trip. Water-to-Go is a filtration system that eliminates over 99.9% of all microbiological contaminants including viruses, bacteria, chemicals and heavy metals from any non-salt water source. Click here and enter the code OASIS25 to purchase your Water-to-Go products at 25% discount.
While you're travelling
From experience gained in running trips, we have developed our own practical and manageable environmental policy which all of our crew practice on the trips we operate, and they will share this information with you at the start of your trip. We welcome your input on this, plus any new ideas you may have, to improve our existing procedures. As a guide here's a few tips to bear in mind.
- Don't waste water. It is a scarce resource in many of the places our trips visit. On all our Ultimate and Overland Expeditions we carry large quantities of purified water with us. We encourage you to refill your own water bottles from this supply, rather than purchase bottled water along the way-much more environmentally friendly and saves you money!
- Never buy endangered species or endangered habitat products. Apart from the fact of it being illegal it also encourages the trade to continue.
- Look after and preserve the areas we visit. Be careful about stepping on coral reefs or trekking on undesignated tracks.
- Buy locally made crafts and products helping to support the local economy.
- Don't feel when bargaining that you have to get the cheapest price possible just for the sake of it. Pay what the item is worth to you & don't worry about what someone else has paid.
- Try the local food and drinks - this will help to support local farmers and food sellers. Sitting in a local cafe is also a great way to meet local people.
- Dispose of litter appropriately on your trip. This includes cigarette butts. Not only does litter look unsightly it can be lethal to wildlife.
- Where any toilet facilities exist, however unsavoury they might seem to you, they should be used. Where they do not, always bury your waste and make sure it is never near, (at least 30m) a water source.
- When game viewing do not encourage your guides to get too close to the wildlife so that their natural behaviour is impeded.
- Respect local customs, traditions and beliefs of the people in the different regions that you travel through.
- Do not take photos of people, ritual events or special places unless you have asked first. Dress appropriately according to local codes and show respect around religious festivals.
- Recycling is almost non-existent in many of the areas and countries we visit - we do the best we can with limited resources & space on our vehicles.
- For books dedicated to travelling more responsibly & ethically see: www.tourismconcern.org.uk
Security
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) offer country-specific advice, regarding not only security but also entry regulations, local laws and customs and health. We strongly recommend all travellers visit the FCDO website, or the equivalent in their home country, to familiarise themselves with local conditions and issues in the countries they plan to visit before committing to a trip with us. You can view their website here.
If you have any questions at all about the safety or security of your trip, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to discuss your trip in more detail.
In cities - All major cities have their share of petty crime (just like our cities) and sensible precautions need to be taken. Wearing expensive looking jewellery or watches and carrying cameras will draw unnecessary attention to you. Leave valuables such as passports and excess money in your hotel safe (we recommend carrying a copy of your passport details page at all times). You may find a simple money belt is more discreet than a bag. Always be aware of your surroundings and when approached by people you do not know, use your common sense. At night in cities it's best to use a taxi, rather than walking around the streets, single women in particular need to be careful and we would suggest that it is safer to be in a group.
Oasis does not take responsibility for clients' personal items and we advise you to not take items of value that are not essential for the journey.
What to Expect
What To Expect
Life On The Road
You will be travelling within a group size ranging from 2-18 people, so come with an open mind and ready to make new friends! You will be accompanied on your adventure with an experienced Local English speaking guide. They are knowledgeable and passionate about the history and culture of Jordan.
Accommodation & Transport
Transport is by minivan and bedouin jeeps whilst in Wadi Rum. We use 3 to 4-star hotels along with a night sleeping in a traditional bedouin tent whilst in Wadi Rum. Some hotels even have swimming pools and sun-lounge areas. Temperatures in Jordan are generally high, particularly during the summer months from May to September, so take sunscreen. However in winter temperatures can drop right down in the evenings, but as long as you bring some warm clothing for the night on the in Wadi Rum then you should be more than comfortable.
Vegetarians / Vegans / Coeliac / Gluten & Lactose intolerance
Our Tour Guides will always do their best to cater for any dietary requirement or intolerance whenever possible. However we don't cater for fussy eaters. It must be remembered that the variety of dishes available may not be the same as available to meat eaters. If there is anything in particular you require in your diet or because of an allergy or would miss from home, it would be best to bring these with you. Remember that when eating out in local restaurants & hotels sometimes being vegetarian or food allergies / intolerances are still not widely known about or understood by many local people. i.e. Vegetarians or Vegans will often be offered fish or chicken in error. Most large towns and cities, or areas used to tourists, will often have more choice but please be aware that it will probably not be as varied as you are used to when eating out at home.
Ramadan
Ramadan is the holy Islamic month during which Muslims fast during the day and is based on Lunar months. No food or liquid is allowed to pass a person's lips during daylight hours. Tourists are not expected to fast during this time, but are expected to show respect, by not eating on the streets or in public view etc. Be aware some shops and historical sites may adjust opening times, but this should not significantly affect our itinerary. Hotels and western style pubs we use normally continue to sell alcohol during Ramadan, but general availability may be limited.
People in some regions are generally conservative, especially about matters concerning sex and women. Muslim countries simply are not the place to make a feminist statement. Attitudes range from fairly liberal to fairly conservative in some of the small towns we may pass through. If you are not prepared to fit in with the social code of the area you may be harassed.
Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices
2025
| Start | Finish | Special Events | Trip Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun 04 May | Sun 11 May |
Dates:
Sun 04 May - Sun 11 May |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 04 May | Sun 11 May |
Dates:
Sun 04 May - Sun 11 May |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1499 | Book |
| Sun 18 May | Sun 25 May |
Dates:
Sun 18 May - Sun 25 May |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 18 May | Sun 25 May |
Dates:
Sun 18 May - Sun 25 May |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1499 | Book |
| Sun 01 Jun | Sun 08 Jun |
Dates:
Sun 01 Jun - Sun 08 Jun |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 01 Jun | Sun 08 Jun |
Dates:
Sun 01 Jun - Sun 08 Jun |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1399 | Book |
| Sun 15 Jun | Sun 22 Jun |
Dates:
Sun 15 Jun - Sun 22 Jun |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 15 Jun | Sun 22 Jun |
Dates:
Sun 15 Jun - Sun 22 Jun |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1399 | Book |
| Sun 29 Jun | Sun 06 Jul |
Dates:
Sun 29 Jun - Sun 06 Jul |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 29 Jun | Sun 06 Jul |
Dates:
Sun 29 Jun - Sun 06 Jul |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1399 | Book |
| Sun 13 Jul | Sun 20 Jul |
Dates:
Sun 13 Jul - Sun 20 Jul |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 13 Jul | Sun 20 Jul |
Dates:
Sun 13 Jul - Sun 20 Jul |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1399 | Book |
| Sun 27 Jul | Sun 03 Aug |
Dates:
Sun 27 Jul - Sun 03 Aug |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 27 Jul | Sun 03 Aug |
Dates:
Sun 27 Jul - Sun 03 Aug |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1399 | Book |
| Sun 10 Aug | Sun 17 Aug |
Dates:
Sun 10 Aug - Sun 17 Aug |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 10 Aug | Sun 17 Aug |
Dates:
Sun 10 Aug - Sun 17 Aug |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1399 | Book |
| Sun 24 Aug | Sun 31 Aug |
Dates:
Sun 24 Aug - Sun 31 Aug |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 24 Aug | Sun 31 Aug |
Dates:
Sun 24 Aug - Sun 31 Aug |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1399 | Book |
| Sun 07 Sep | Sun 14 Sep |
Dates:
Sun 07 Sep - Sun 14 Sep |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 07 Sep | Sun 14 Sep |
Dates:
Sun 07 Sep - Sun 14 Sep |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1499 | Book |
| Sun 21 Sep | Sun 28 Sep |
Dates:
Sun 21 Sep - Sun 28 Sep |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 21 Sep | Sun 28 Sep |
Dates:
Sun 21 Sep - Sun 28 Sep |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1499 | Book |
| Sun 05 Oct | Sun 12 Oct |
Dates:
Sun 05 Oct - Sun 12 Oct |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 05 Oct | Sun 12 Oct |
Dates:
Sun 05 Oct - Sun 12 Oct |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1499 | Book |
| Sun 19 Oct | Sun 26 Oct |
Dates:
Sun 19 Oct - Sun 26 Oct |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 19 Oct | Sun 26 Oct |
Dates:
Sun 19 Oct - Sun 26 Oct |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1499 | Book |
| Sun 02 Nov | Sun 09 Nov |
Dates:
Sun 02 Nov - Sun 09 Nov |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 02 Nov | Sun 09 Nov |
Dates:
Sun 02 Nov - Sun 09 Nov |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1499 | Book |
| Sun 16 Nov | Sun 23 Nov |
Dates:
Sun 16 Nov - Sun 23 Nov |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 16 Nov | Sun 23 Nov |
Dates:
Sun 16 Nov - Sun 23 Nov |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1499 | Book |
| Sun 30 Nov | Sun 07 Dec |
Dates:
Sun 30 Nov - Sun 07 Dec |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Sun 30 Nov | Sun 07 Dec |
Dates:
Sun 30 Nov - Sun 07 Dec |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1399 | Book |
| Mon 22 Dec | Mon 29 Dec |
Dates:
Mon 22 Dec - Mon 29 Dec |
Special Events: Standard Hotels | Adult Price: £1099 | Book |
| Mon 22 Dec | Mon 29 Dec |
Dates:
Mon 22 Dec - Mon 29 Dec |
Special Events: Superior Hotels | Adult Price: £1399 | Book |
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