An Enriching Journey Awaits
Day 1 – Arrive Amman, Jordan and Journey to the Dead Sea
Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to your enchanting Dead Sea resort, the deluxe Kempinski Ishtar Hotel, for a three-night stay.
Day 2 – Riveting Encounters with Antiquity
Travel into the picturesque rolling hills of northern Jordan to explore Jerash with your expert guide. Known as the ‘Pompeii of the East,’ it’s considered by many to be the best preserved Provincial Roman city in the world. As you enter the site, you’ll by greeted by an imposing triple-arched gateway, built in the 2nd century A.D. when Emperor Hadrian wintered here, making the city – for a brief period – the center of the Roman Empire.
Back in Amman, ascend the ancient citadel and visit the Roman amphitheater built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius. Its steeply raked seating could accommodate 6,000 spectators and the acoustics today are still near-perfect; from the top row of seats, you can hear the conversations of people on the stage far below. Then mingle with city residents as you browse a fragrant herb and spice market where many come to shop daily. By special arrangement, you’ll join an Amman family this evening for a traditional Jordanian dinner in their lovely home. Return to your Dead Sea Resort for a restful night. Meals B,D
Day 3 – Discover Madaba and Mt. Nebo
This morning, you’ll set out along the historic King’s Way to visit Madaba. This ancient market town is renowned for its finely-preserved Byzantine mosaics; most significant is an impressive 6th century mosaic map of the Holy Land from Egypt to Lebanon. You’ll see Jerusalem carefully depicted along with dozens of other Biblical sites. Then ascend Mt. Nebo, traditional burial site of Moses, where you’ll have a commanding view over the Jordan Valley. Return to the Dead Sea where your afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the fine resort amenities of the Kempinski Ishtar Hotel. Meals B
Day 4 – Along the King’s Highway to Petra
Depart the Dead Sea after breakfast and visit Shobak Castle, a 12th century Crusader castle strategically perched on the side of a 4,300-foot mountain peak. Then continue southward along the historic King’s Highway to Petra. Check in to the deluxe Mövenpick Hotel where your evening is free. Meals B
Day 5 – In the Footsteps of Explorers and Adventurers
Published in 1822, Travels in Syria and the Holy Land recounted the discovery of Petra by a Swiss explorer, firing the imaginations of travelers ever since. After breakfast, you’ll visit the Lost City with your guide. As you pass through the Siq and enter into Petra, the iconic façade of the Treasury looms before you, carved into solid rockface and stunningly preserved after 2,000 years. Your in-depth morning visit includes the massive first-century Theater and the Great Temple.
Sit down and refresh with cardamom coffee or mint tea... Then linger on as long as you like to explore more of the Lost City at your own pace. When you wish, return to your hotel where the rest of your afternoon is free. Tonight you’ll dine on richly flavored Jordanian fare at Al Diwan Restaurant. Meals B,D
Day 6 – Into the Lands of Lawrence of Arabia and Onward
Depart Petra this morning and venture by jeep into Wadi Rum, a remote region where sandstone and granite mountains rise sheer-sided from wide sandy valleys to reach spectacular heights of 4,000 feet and more. A desert Bedouin leads your way into these landscapes made famous by Lawrence of Arabia.
Exclusively for AAA Members, we’ve made special arrangements for you to spend time with a well-known breeder of Arabian horses. Surrounded by the magical desert scenery, you’ll learn about the breeding and care of these magnificent creatures - and see all their power and beauty up close.
After this unforgettable experience, you’ll travel back to Amman for your onward flight. Or discover the ancient history and modern spirit of Israel on our carefully planned extension. Meals B
