Jordan Culinary Adventure

Welcome to Jordan! On your arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for dinner and overnight. (D)

After breakfast, enjoy a visit to Amman, the vibrant capital of Jordan. Amman offers a rich blend of ancient history and modern culture. We will visit the Amman Citadel, perched atop a hill and providing panoramic views of the sprawling city. Here, you can explore the ancient ruins of the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace. A short distance away is the Roman Theater, an impressive 2nd-century structure still in use today for cultural events. The nearby Jordan Archaeological Museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts that chronicle Jordan's diverse history from prehistoric times to the Islamic era. As you wander through Amman, you'll discover a city where the old and new coexist, offering a captivating experience for every traveler. After our city tour we will head to our first cooking class at a restaurant in Jabal Al Waibdeh where we will prepare a meal and enjoy it as a late lunch, then continue visiting Amman in the evening if time permits. Overnight at the hotel in Amman. (B/L)

After breakfast, head north to visit Jerash, Ajloun, and Um Qais which offers a rich historical and cultural experience. Jerash, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, allows visitors to walk through ancient colonnaded streets and marvel at impressive theaters and temples. Ajloun is home to a majestic 12th-century castle built by the Ayyubids, offering stunning views of the Jordan Valley and a glimpse into medieval Islamic architecture and history. Um Qais, located near the Sea of Galilee, boasts the ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman city of Gadara, providing breathtaking panoramic views and insights into the region's diverse historical influences. Together, these sites showcase Jordan's rich archaeological heritage and offer a captivating journey through time. Afterwards return to Amman for dinner and overnight. (B/D)

After breakfast, begin your journey south to Mt. Nebo and Madaba. Visiting Mt. Nebo and Madaba in Jordan is a journey through biblical history and artistic heritage. Mt. Nebo is renowned as the place where Moses is believed to have viewed the Promised Land before his death. From its summit, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and, on clear days, even Jerusalem. The site also features an ancient church with stunning mosaics. Nearby Madaba, often called the "City of Mosaics," is famous for its exquisite Byzantine-era mosaics, particularly the Madaba Map, a detailed mosaic map of the Holy Land found in the Church of St. George. Together, these sites offer a profound connection to the ancient past and a showcase of Jordan's rich cultural and religious history. After our visits we will go to the Dana Restaurant and learn how to make Mansaf, a traditional Jordanian dish, for a late lunch. Afterwards, we can enjoy a leisurely walk to our hotel. Overnight in Madaba. (B/L)

After an early breakfast we check out and continue to the south with stops at Um Al-Rasas, Mekawer, Kerak. Visiting Um Al-Rasas, Mekawer, and Kerak in Jordan offers an intriguing exploration of historical and archaeological marvels. Um Al-Rasas, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features impressive Byzantine mosaics and ancient ruins that tell stories of early Christian monasticism. Mekawer, also known as Machaerus, is the hilltop fortress where John the Baptist was imprisoned and executed; it provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of the Dead Sea and the rugged Jordanian landscape. Kerak is renowned for its imposing Crusader castle, one of the largest and best-preserved in the region, which dominates the town and offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval military architecture and history. These sites together provide a rich tapestry of Jordan's diverse historical epochs and cultural influences. We continue to Petra for dinner and overnight. (B/D)

After breakfast at the hotel, have a full day exploring Petra. Visiting Petra is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Jordan's ancient Nabatean civilization. This iconic archaeological site, often called the "Rose City" for its stunning rock-cut architecture, is renowned for the breathtaking Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), which greets visitors at the end of the narrow Siq gorge. Beyond The Treasury, Petra's vast landscape reveals a treasure trove of tombs, temples, and amphitheaters carved into the red sandstone cliffs. Exploring Petra's labyrinthine paths offers a profound sense of wonder and awe, as each corner reveals intricate carvings and monumental structures that tell the story of a once-thriving desert city. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Petra is a testament to human ingenuity and an essential destination for anyone fascinated by history and archaeology. Our day will end at Petra Kitchen where we will enjoy a cooking class and have the results of our labors for dinner. (B/D)

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for a visit to Little Petra. Visitors can explore the lesser-known yet equally enchanting rock-cut architecture and narrow gorges that provide a more intimate glimpse into the Nabatean civilization. The day’s journey continues to the vast desert landscape of Wadi Rum, where the striking red sands and towering rock formations create a surreal and majestic setting. Here, guests can experience the traditional Bedouin way of life by preparing and enjoying Zarb, a delicious underground-cooked meal of marinated meat and vegetables. As evening falls, the camp comes alive with the warm glow of the fire, and the sky fills with stars, offering a serene and unforgettable night under the desert sky. (B/D)

After breakfast at the camp embark on an exhilarating 4x4 jeep tour through the stunning desert landscape of Wadi Rum, where for 3-4 hours you'll traverse vast sand dunes, explore hidden canyons, and marvel at towering rock formations. This adventure offers a unique perspective of the majestic scenery famously described as "Mars on Earth." After the thrilling desert journey, head to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Here, you can float effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters, renowned for their therapeutic properties, and relax on the shores while taking in the serene surroundings. The contrast between the rugged adventure of Wadi Rum and the tranquil experience at the Dead Sea makes for an unforgettable day of exploration and relaxation in Jordan. Dinner and overnight at the hotel on the shores of the Dead Sea. (B/D)

Sleep in a bit today then check out and visit Bethany around noontime. Visiting Bethany on the Jordan River, also known as Al-Maghtas, is a profoundly spiritual and historical experience. This revered site is believed to be the location where John the Baptist baptized Jesus, making it a significant pilgrimage destination for Christians worldwide. Nestled along the east bank of the Jordan River, Bethany offers visitors the chance to explore ancient churches, baptismal pools, and other archaeological remains that date back to the Roman and Byzantine periods. The tranquil setting, coupled with its deep religious significance, provides a serene and reflective atmosphere, allowing visitors to connect with the historical and spiritual roots of this sacred place. Afterwards, transfer to Queen Alia International Airport for departure. (B)

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Note: If your flight is early in the morning the next day, you can stay 1 more night at the Dead Sea ($210) or in Madaba ($140). This includes your accommodations, transfer to the airport, and assistance.