Hike Jordan and Snorkel the Red Sea
Immerse yourself in the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and Petra and delve into the famous coral reefs of the Red Sea
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with local, expert, English-speaking guidesHotel & Glamping
5 nights in hotels and 2 nights in a Bedouin campMeals
All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 traditional Arabic dinnersTransfers
Airport transfers and everything in betweenEquipment
Fully equipped Bedouin tents and all your snorkelling gearSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
…
What's it like?
Pass through the sandstone mountains that guard Petra’s ‘backdoor’ before soaking up the secrets of the UNESCO World Heritage Site itself
Hop in a desert truck through the dunes of Wadi Rum to climb Jordan’s highest peak, with views all the way to Saudi Arabia
Swap lunar sandscapes for technicolour waterworlds as you snorkel the Red Sea's coral reefs and float in the famous Dead Sea
Fancy just sticking to dry land? Head over to our much-loved Adventure Hiking in Jordan trip instead
Key Information
Day 1
Welcome to Jordan
You'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in central Madaba. You're free to check in after 2pm and the rest of the day is yours to explore the ancient city at your leisure.
Day 2
Dana Nature Reserve
Driving
Hiking
After breakfast and a chance to meet your fellow adventurers, it's time for your briefing. Head south to Dana Nature Reserve, one of Jordan’s often-overlooked gems. Today you’ll be hiking the Shaq Al Reesh trail (or similar). This circular trail traverses from Al-Barrah, through a breathtaking siq, to Shaq al Reesh. After your hike, time permitting, you’ll continue south towards Shobak Castle for a panoramic tour. Pull out your camera and take a few great shots, as the castle is perched on the side of a rocky, conical mountain, looking out over fruit trees below on the way to Petra. Memories captured, you’ll then head to your first Bedouin camp experience of this adventure.
Day 3
The backdoor to Petra
Hiking
After an early breakfast, it's time to start your journey through Petra. You'll cross the desert and pass through Wadi Ghurab amidst the sandstone mountains that guard the approach to Petra. Continue via a Nabataean route that skirts the final mountain on a natural rock terrace. You'll soon reach a hidden plateau high above the impressive chasm of Wadi Siyyagh. The monastery suddenly comes into view as you follow the steps down to ancient Petra, where you'll have time to soak it all in and learn about its ancient past.
Day 4
Head to Wadi Rum and climb Jordan’s highest peak
Driving
Hiking
Head to the unique desert landscape of Wadi Rum, where you'll hop into a desert truck for the hour’s drive to the foot of Um Ad Dami (1800m) – the highest peak in Jordan. Hike up to the summit, from which the panorama is spectacular – to the south, you can see the border to Saudi Arabia and to the north, Jebel Rum. You'll descend to a remote Bedouin camp to relax and marvel at the stars in the clear desert night. Dinner here is a real experience – you’ll be served zarb, a delicious traditional dish cooked for 4-5 hours on hot coals under the ground.
Day 5
Wadi Rum to the Red Sea
Hiking
After breakfast you’ll bid farewell to your Bedouin hosts and head off for two short hikes through two of Wadi Rum's most beautiful canyons: Um Ishreen and Barrah - with mesmerising multi-coloured cliffs and towers flanking the flat sandy sections, greener plant-rich areas and dunes. Hop back in the van and leave Wadi Rum for the coast, reaching Aqaba in the early afternoon for a well-deserved dip in the Red Sea. Aqaba is a lively, bustling spot and your guide will suggest the best restaurants for lunch and dinner. In the afternoon you'll visit the Berenice Beach Club with full use of the pools and beach where you can swim straight from the shore.
Day 6
Explore the Red Sea's famous reefs
Snorkelling
Head off this morning to the yacht club of Aqaba, hop onboard a specialist diving and snorkelling boat and set off on the glistening Red Sea. Your skipper will take you to several beautiful areas to snorkel over the Red Sea's world-renowned coral reefs with a diverse array of marine life to gaze at. Tuck into lunch on deck before more time below the surface in the afternoon. During breaks from snorkelling and swimming you can sunbathe and relax on the boat ́s sun deck. Enjoy some afternoon downtime and a free evening to take your pick of the local restaurants for a sundowner and dinner as that salty-skin feeling lingers into the night.
Day 7
To the Dead Sea
Swimming
Driving
Tuck into one last breakfast overlooking the Red Sea before hopping in the van for a road trip over to Jordan's other famous body of water - the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Spend the afternoon floating, swimming and relaxing in the waters known for their healing qualities, perhaps try an invigorating mud bath to cleanse the skin or get a spa treatment before driving the final stretch back to Amman. Tonight is the final night of your epic adventure, so find a good restaurant and toast the incredible memories made over the past week.
Day 8
Transfer to Airport
After breakfast and final goodbyes with your team, you'll be returned to the airport in time for your flight home.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Queen Alia International Airport, Amman
Catch any flight to arrive on Day 1
Ends
Queen Alia International Airport Amman
Depart any time on Day 8
Transfers
Arrival transfers from Amman airport to the hotel in Madaba are included for any time you choose to arrive on Day 1 or Day 2 of the tour (some flights arrive after midnight so fall in the early hours of Day 2). Departure transfers from the final hotel to Amman airport are included for any time you choose to depart on Day 8. If you need a transfer on other days then your host can arrange a private transfer for you, at an additional cost. See the Optional Extras section for prices.
Travel options
There are frequent flights to Amman from airports in the UK and Europe. Choose any flight to arrive on Day 1 and depart on Day 8 - or extend your stay if you wish. Some flights arrive shortly after midnight - if you arrive in Amman in the early hours of Day 2 then your room will be ready and waiting for you, but if your flight arrives in the early hours of Day 1, you will need to book an extra night's accommodation before the tour as rooms are not usually available for check-in until the mid-afternoon. Your host can arrange an additional night of accommodation, subject to availability. See the Optional Extras section for prices.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6 – Day 7
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 8
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
For breakfast, expect a buffet typical of 3-star hotel breakfasts all over the world. Lunches will generally be either a packed lunch or buffet style. Where this isn't included it will cost approx $10pp. Dinner (where not included) will be at local restaurants and will cost approx $15-$20pp. Your guide will be with you to make suggestions of where to eat and when to arrange group meals.
For dinner in the Bedouin camp on Day 2, you'll experience traditional Arabic food: either magloobah (rice with vegetables and chicken prepared in a traditional way with local spices) or mansaf (rice served with lamb and yoghurt). These dishes come with the classic accompaniments of hoummus, mtabbal (fried aubergine) and salad. Dinner at Wadi Rum on Day 4 is a real experience: here, they serve the famous zarb – rice, veggies, lamb and chicken cooked for 4-5 hours under the ground on coals, served with salads and side dishes. On the Red Sea section of the trip, you'll tuck into a delicious lunch onboard the boat in between your snorkelling adventures, while evening meals are not included, giving you some free time to explore Aqaba's many excellent restaurants - your guide will have plenty of suggestions!
Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for – please just let your host know on booking.
What is the accommodation like?
Madaba
During your overnight stay in Madaba, you will usually be tucked up in the cosy Mosaic City Hotel. This family-run hotel offers a friendly welcome in the centre of ‘the city of mosaics’ and is within walking distance to the main sights. Occasionally the group may be accommodated at another property of a similar standard.
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room and tent can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).
Little Petra Bedouin Camp
You’ll spend one night in a Bedouin desert fixed camp in Little Petra, just 5km from Petra itself. Each spacious tent is furnished with beds, mattresses, blankets and pillows, with showers and toilets available nearby. You'll be treated to traditional Bedouin cuisine for dinner, and the camp is the perfect place for a spot of star-gazing and watching the sun rise the next morning.
Petra
The modern La Maison Hotel is situated only a five-minute walk from the ancient site of Petra. You’ll stay in twin-share, air conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and free WiFi. The hotel has its own restaurant, as well as a roof terrace with a view of the hills surrounding Petra. Occasionally the group may be accommodated at another property of a similar standard.
Wadi Rum
Whilst in Wadi Rum you’ll stay at Rainbow Camp, a Bedouin fixed camp nestled into the vast expanse of the desert with several communal areas for dining, sitting by camp fires and chilling outside. The tents are large, square canvas tents with raised beds, mattresses and furniture in each, and there is a shower and toilet block available too. If you would like to take your mattress outside to a nearby dune to sleep under the stars, let your guide know as this can be arranged.
Aqaba
On the coast of Jordan's Red Sea you'll stay one night at the 4-star My Luxury Hotel. The hotel has a rooftop restaurant with fantastic views over the Aqaba skyline, plus an outdoor pool if you haven't had your fill of swimming the Red Sea during the day. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with ensuite bathrooms (unless you have requested a double room or a private room upgrade). Occasionally the group may be accommodated at another property of a similar standard.
Amman
In Amman, you will usually stay at the Toledo Hotel, a modern hotel chosen for its excellent location in the heart of the city and known for its great service. You’ll stay in bright, elegant rooms that have air conditioning and WiFi, on a twin-share basis.
This trip has been rated as Moderate
A moderate level of fitness is needed to enjoy this trip. You won’t need to be super fit, but you should be in good shape and feel comfortable hiking up to 6 hours a day on often uneven ground. What’s more important is being comfortable with heights. There will be a few exposed sections, so those with vertigo may not be too comfortable. Your guide will never be far away to help you get through it, though. You won't need any snorkelling experience as full guidance is provided, and you are welcome to do as much or as little snorkelling as you like - the rest of the time you can simply chill on deck or on the beach.
What will I need to carry?
You'll only need to carry a small day rucksack with personal items, snacks and water during each day of activity. Your main luggage will be transported for you.
The weather in the summer can get very hot, especially in the desert, with daytime temperatures averaging between 32-36°C. May to October tends to be exclusively sunny, while the nights are cool and balmy. Rain is unlikely but not unheard of, so do be prepared, especially if travelling between November and March.
HIKING & snorkeling in Jordan = balance of adventure + history + relaxation
A second organized trip and the first with MBA: An intensive travel adventure that will remain unforgettable for me with its diverse experiences and impressions. We had Motaz, our Jordanian guide, with his unique sense of humor at our side, who made an incredible effort to convey to us all his great knowledge and love of his country, its interesting history and the different ways of life. We immersed ourselves in the various landscapes with him: on hiking tours in the magnificent mountains of the Dana Reserve, on desert tours in Wadi Rum, the most fascinating and history-rich mountains of Petra, and in the water world while snorkeling/diving in the Red Sea and in the fun mud bath in the Dead Sea. Motaz was approachable to everyone the whole time, had a very good feel for group dynamics and was always friendly, professional, polite and with a caring eye, individually attuned to each person in the group. With a lot of organizational skill, he supported the respective interests and made it an unforgettable travel adventure for everyone. With great tips for individual program planning and his great organizational talent, he was able to fulfill individual wishes and interests to give us the greatest week of travel in Jordan. My absolute highlights: a dream came true: the time in Petra, the Milky Way with the shooting stars at night in the Rainbow Camp and the Nabataean rock paintings on our desert tour in Wadi Rum as well as the unforgettable view on the mountain tour. The dinner locations in the last two restaurants together were brilliantly chosen by Motaz with a great feel for the group and with a unique, great atmosphere and excellent local food. Motaz, your great tip and your "Mr. Cool" taxi organization for the last day in Amman gave us a half-day trip to Jerash, 1 hour north of Amman - also a must have. The very modern Petra+Jordan Museum deserves praise for its fantastic multimedia didactic exhibitions. o INFORMATION from MBA, advance information about water/lunch packages I think on board, entrance fees for the planned tours all included in the price. The camps have beds, electricity and showers, toilets with accessories such as towels etc. The first quarter in Madaba has room for improvement (regarding door lock, burning toaster, etc. ) o your support in eco-projects and the presentation of the CO2 footprint of the respective travel time is very good o Essential: neck buff, sunglasses, headgear, lip balm, sun/insect repellent, good hiking boots, hiking stick, sleeping bag liner, flip-flops, warm fleece jacket + headlamp for the night in the desert, cash + credit card and change for tips and British travel plugs, eSIM, power bank if necessary o Keep an eye on FLIGHTS: Our flights were postponed both ways o Taxi within the city: 1. 25 to 5JD, taxi to Amman airport 25JD, food 10-20JD, Turkish coffee +/-1. 5JD, taxi 1h Amman-Jerash there and back 50JD, admission to museums of your choice: Madaba Archaeol. Museum 3JD, Petra Museum/NAbat. Museum free, Jerash Arch. Park 10JD, Amman JORDAN Museum 3JD o Not necessary: Towels (there were everywhere, in the beach club, on the boat, in the desert camps) Toilet paper?, self-organized Water/lunch packages (there were normal/vegetarian ones, organized by Motaz. . . TOP) On our tours we experienced first-hand the effects of climate change on Jordan and the country's efforts to face the political and ecological challenges of the future as a factor of stability. It is a task for all of us to preserve these treasures of human history and to continue to support this region and its people in the future. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone in our tour group, to the superhero and tamer Motaz and to our patient bus driver (with WIFI) for this unforgettably intense time. Jordan has a place in my heart and maybe we will see each other again. Meine zweite organisierte Reise u die erste mit MBA: Ein intensives Reiseabenteuer, das mir unvergesslich bleibt mit seinen vielfältigen Erlebnissen+Eindrücken. Wir hatten Motaz, unseren jordanischen Guide, mit seinem einzigartigem Humor an der Seite, der unglaublich bemüht war, uns allen sein großartiges Wissen und seine Liebe zu seinem Land ,dessen interessante Geschichte und die verschiedenen Lebensweisen nahe zu bringen. Wir sind mit ihm in die verschiedene Landschaften eingetaucht: bei Hikingtouren in grandioser Bergwelt des Dana Reservats, bei Wüstentouren in Wadi Rum, der faszinierendsten und geschichtsreichen Bergwelt Petras und in die Wasserwelt beim Schnorcheln/diving am Roten Meer sowie im funny Schlammbad im totem Meer. Motaz war die ganze Zeit für jeden ansprechbar, hatte ein sehr gutes Gespür für die Gruppendynamik u war immer freundlich, professionell, höflich und mit individuell fürsorglichen Blick auf jeden in der Gruppe eingestellt. Mit viel organisatorischem Geschick hat er sich für die jeweiligen Interessen mit großer Unterstützung eingesetzt, damit es für jeden ein unvergessliches Reiseabenteuer wurde. Mit tollen Tips auch für individuelle Programmgestaltung und seinem großartigen Organisationstalent, hat er auch individuelle Wünsche u Interessen erfüllen können, um uns die großartigste Reisewoche in Jordanien zu schenken. Meine absoluten Highlights= ein Traum wurde wahr: die Zeit in Petra, die Milchstraße mit den Sternschnuppen in der Nacht im Rainbowcamp u die nabatäischen Felsbilddarstellungen bei unserer Wüstentour im Wadi Rum sowie der unvergessliche Aus+Weitblick bei der Bergtour. Die Locations gerade der beiden letzten gemeinsamen Restaurants waren von Motaz mit tollem Gespür für die Gruppe grandios ausgesucht und mit einzig-, großartiger Atmosphäre u ausgezeichnetem lokalem Essen. Motaz, dein toller Tip u deine „Mr. Cool“ Taxiorganisation für den letzten Tag in Amman hat uns noch einen Halbtagesausflug nach Jerash, 1h nördlich von Amman-auch ein must have- geschenkt. Dem sehr modernen Petra+Jordan Museum gebührt ein Lob für die multimedial didaktisch fantastischen Ausstellungen. o INFOS von MBA, vorab Info Wasser/lunchpakete on board, Eintritte für die geplanten Touren alle im Preis enthalten. In den Camps Betten, Elektrizität u Duschen, Toiletten mit Zubehör wie Handtücher etc dabei. Das erste Quartier in Madaba hat wirklich Verbesserungspotential (bzgl Türschloss,brennendem Toaster etc) o Ich finde eure Unterstützung in ökol. Projekte u die Darstellung des CO2abdruck der jeweiligen Reisezeit sehr gut o Unabdingbar: Halsbuff, Sonnenbrille, Kopfbedeckung, Lippenbalsam ,Sonnen/Insektenschutz, gute Wanderschuhe, Wanderstock, Schlafsackeinlage, Flipflops, warme Fleecejacke+Stirnlampe für die Nacht in der Wüste, Bargeld+ KK va Kleingeld für Tip u brit. Reisestecker, eSIM, ggf Powerbank o FLÜGE im Blick behalten: Unsere Flüge wurden verschoben hin wie rück o Taxi innerhalb der Stadt:1,25 bis 5JD,Taxi zum Flughafen von Amman 25JD,Essen 10-20JD, türk. Coffee +/-1,5JD,Taxi 1h Amman-Jerash hin+zurück 50JD, Eintritt bei selbst gewählten Museen: Madaba Archaeol. Museum 3JD,Petramuseum/Nabat. Museum frei, Jerash Arch. Park 10JD,Amman JORDAN Museum 3JD o Nicht nötig: Handtücher(gab es überall, im Beachclub, auf dem Boot, im Wüstencamps dazu) Toilettenpapier?, eigenorganisiert Wasser/Lunchpakete (gab es normal/Vegetarisch von Motaz organisiert. . . TOP) Auf unseren Touren haben wir direkt die Auswirkungen des Klimawandels für Jordanien erlebt u die Bemühungen des Landes, sich als Stabilitätsfaktor in der Region den politischen u ökologischen Herausforderungen der Zukunft zu stellen. Für uns alle eine Aufgabe, diese Schätze der Menschheitsgeschichte zu erhalten u diese Region und seine Menschen in Zukunft weiter zu unterstützen. Danke von ganzem Herzen an alle in unserer Reisegruppe, an den Superhero und Dompteur Motaz u an unseren geduldigen Busfahrer (mit WIFI) für diese unvergesslich intensive Zeit. Jordanien hat ein Platz in meinem Herzen u vielleicht gibt es ein Wiedersehen.
Generally a trip with lots
Generally a trip with lots of highlights and a well-balanced programme. On the positive side, our guide Motaz was outstanding. He was constantly improvising, organising and making adjustments, so that everyone got something out of the trip, and his skills in managing the different personalities and expectations were amazing. On the negative side, more detailed information regarding the individual parts of the trip and what is included (and what not) would have been helpful. Thus, I went out to buy bottled water on the first night of the trip, only to be told the following morning that all water during the journeys and activities would be provided. Also, whereas the last two hotels were good (apart from the gender-segregated pool in Amman) and the second one was ok, the first hotel in Madaba was not a good start. Internet was practically non-existent and there was an issue with the lock in the room adjacent to mine, and various staff members (each escalating the issue to their superior) unsuccessfully tried to fix it. As there was a connecting door to my room, apparently at some stage access was achieved through my room while I was absent and without my permission. Only after several hours was a staff member present who had the authority to decide the lock could not be fixed and a different room needed to be given (which was a request first voiced several hours earlier). Of course, Motaz was not present on that first evening, as his duty only started the following morning, and the experience would have certainly been less bizarre had he been present.
Trip of a lifetime
We started our trip meeting a great bunch of like minded individuals over dinner in the beautiful town of Madaba, the next morning we met our wonderful guide Motaz (who in our opinion truly made the trip worth while, his expert knowledge, relationship with local people and friendly, funny character really made the trip special for us all as a group). We then ventured to the beautiful Dana Nature reserve with a hike through some truly stunning terrain seeing local Bedouins along the way, after this we visited little Petra and learnt about the culture that built the site, that evening we stayed in the most fabulous camp near little Petra which in itself was a wonder. The sunset tied in with the camp surroundings and gorgeous local cuisine were par none. The next day, what can I say the most beautiful thing I have trekked through in my life seeing Petra in all its glory and learning about the history with our guide Motaz. That evening we stayed in a lovely hotel in Petra itself with amaaaaxing local food suggested by our guide. Our trip through wadi rum the next day was on par if not better than Petra, absolute stunning rugged scenery in which we felt very comfortable with our guide and the Bedouin people who took us for our mountain trek and looked after us again on a beautiful camp in which we could see shooting stars and the milky way as we feared on our lamb cooked underground. This day was certainly a highlight of the trip. As the week brought nearer the end a more relaxing itinerary set in with a day at the beach club and more fine food, leading us on to the beautiful snorkelling in the stunning red sea and Aqaba itself, and finally the dead sea, all I can say is wow, I've never felt so invigorated after a few days of hiking in my life. Truly a trip that has equal measure of adventuring as well as some relaxation. I just want to again thank our guide Motaz for making me fall in love with Jordan and it's people, I will definitely be back and suggest this trip for anyone of all ages and abilities.
Not all superhero’s wear capes!
Motaz, our guide is quite simply the best. Right from day 1 with his warm friendly smile and great sense of humour, he made us all feel very welcome and happy, getting everybody involved and feeling included within the group. He really went out of his way to provide for all our needs. If there was anything anybody wanted or needed at anytime, he would do everything in his power to make that happen, whilst always maintaining a professional and courteous attitude. Even when he was feeling tired, a bit exhausted and a little out of his own comfort zone, he would still deliver each and every time. Top bloke!
Our thoughts, feelings and intentions throughout the trip were always his number one priority. Always understanding and empathetic towards all the mixed and varied abilities within the group.
His knowledge and information of everything Jordanian is top of the class. Always making sure we all felt safe, warm and loved, every step of the way. Top marks and gold star to the best tour guide in all of Jordan. He is amazing – a true superhero! Thank you Motaz for giving us all the trip of a lifetime.
As a whole the trip was totally epic! From the challenging terrain of Petra and Wadi Rum to the relaxing ambiance of the Red and Dead seas. Accommodation was always first class. Food was delicious. The people always happy, friendly, warm and very welcoming.
I cannot recommend this trip highly enough. Memories I will cherish forever, with new best friendships made that I’m sure will also last a lifetime.
As you look through these reviews and think; shall I book this trip? The answer is a very simple: YES! Book it now, don’t delay and don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to see and do so much in just one week. Just do it! You’ll love it and you certainly wont regret it, I promise 😉
I’m still buzzing from this trip 😊
Fantastic adventures in Jordan
I have been on many adventure holidays, both with MBA and other companies, but this one has to be up there with my favourites. The variety of activity was really great and the amount we managed to pack into the week was really quite incredible. It most definitely was the trip that just kept giving. It was sad to see tourist numbers so low, but that was obviously a huge advantage for us, having world famous sites such as Petra, pretty much to ourselves. The Wadi Rum experience was particularly wonderful - a mountain summit with spectacular views, the stunning Martian type landscape, Bedouin camp and authentic food, jeep safari across the vast expanse, star gazing, camel riding for sun rise, and trekking to see the stunning canyons. We were fortunate to have a fabulous group who were such fun to be with. Most of all, the trip was truly made by our exceptional guide, Motaz. He was without doubt, the best guide I've had on an adventure. So knowledgeable, such great humour, so helpful and always going that extra mile to give us the best experience possible. Motaz, thanks a million! I can absolutely recommend this trip without hesitation and hope others feel safe to travel to this beautiful, magical country
This was the first trip
This was the first trip that I had done with Much Better Adventures and I was really impressed. The itinerary was excellent and provided a great mix of activities. Motaz was a wonderful guide and really enhanced the experience. I would certainly use MBA again
Best trip I’ve ever been on!
Wow! What an amazing trip from start to finish, everything was absolutely brilliant.
Arriving into Amman airport I was a bit nervous on my own but the driver had a sign and it was really easy to get to the first hotel.
The transfer bus is air conditioned and very comfortable, the driver was very friendly and was even available to help us as a group to get to a restaurant outside of our itinerary.
Day 1 of trekking the nature reserve was stunning, panoramic views and we had a traditional Bedouin tea on a fire the local guide made for us whilst we had lunch. After this we went to the first Bedouin camp which has hot showers and a fixed structure toilet block and a campfire to sit around. The food was delicious, plentiful and alcohol is available. Little Petra was really interesting and our guide Motaz explained everything with great historical knowledge.
We then headed into Petra which is totally amazing and we were so lucky we could experience this wonder with hardly any other tourists there, however all shops and facilities are open. There are a lot of steps, I found my training on the StairMaster in the gym came in handy! The hotel we stayed in was close to a fantastic restaurant our guide Motaz took us to in the evening - top tip is to make sure the food you order comes in a gold box….
Next day was Wadi rum which is a phenomenal experience and in my opinion even better than Petra. The hike up Jordan’s highest Mountain includes climbing up over some sandstone boulders and a bit of scrambling - our guide Motaz helped us through every step of the way and we had additional guides for this section in order to make sure the group can go at a speed they are comfortable with. The views from the top are outstanding! The red sand glowing at night with neon shrubs on the ground was something I will never forget. The second Bedouin camp was more rustic but still with fixed hot water shower block a toilets. Personally I preferred this camp as the experience was very authentic. The food was really great and watching shooting stars above our camp when the lights were turned out was a once in a lifetime experience!
The Red Sea was incredible snorkelling, the boat we went on was very luxurious. Some of the group dived whilst others relaxed on the boat. We stayed on at the beach club into the evening and enjoyed happy hour and lovely food at a very reasonable price eg 10JD for grilled fresh local fish salad and fries. The sunset was beautiful and cocktails were very tasty.
The Dead Sea was a fantastic experience and the hotel was absolutely stunning with amazing food and facilities - there was even a swim up bar!
Our guide Motaz was absolutely brilliant and ensured anything we wanted was made possible. I stayed on an extra full day and decided to get baptised in the River Jordan. Motaz found a priest with 24 hours notice in a Muslim country, booked me a private transfer and explained the whole process and what I would need to take/do. This is completely above and beyond, I was totally blown away! This man can make absolutely anything happen so with Motaz you are honestly in the best hands!
The country is very safe, I felt secure at all times. I would highly recommend this trip to everyone. You don’t need to bring an adaptor plug if you’re from the Uk, all the accommodations have this socket and also no need for a towel as this is provided at every location. The neck buff is a must to pull over your face when it’s dusty/sandy.
Trip of a lifetime
I've just returned from the October 2024 trip and it was amazing, each day seemed to get better than the one before, and it felt much longer than 7 days because of the amount we got to do and see in that time.
The accommodations were all top notch, and impeccably clean, including the camps, with toilets and showers which where as comfortable as being in a hotel. We were lucky to have the 2nd camp entirely for our group which felt really special and secluded.
The food was mostly buffet style, plenty of choice, standard pack lunches for the hikes, and some gorgeous meals in the evenings.
The hikes where varied each day which kept it interesting. I'm fairly fit and find Snowdon hard, the hikes where a fun challenge for me. There is some scrambling involved on day 4 but Motaz was always there to give us a hand and I felt safe on all the trails.
The sights we saw where just incredible and exceeded my expectations. Jordan has so much variety within a small country, so we where hiking in wadi rum in the morning then later in the afternoon relaxing at a beach club. The itinerary is well planned so you have the snorkelling day and dead sea to Relax before the trip ends. I upgraded last minute to a scuba dive on the boat which was definitely worth it.
The guide, Motaz, was the icing on the cake for me, he is so funny and genuinely cares about the group, he went well out of his way to make sure each person had a good time. By the end of the week I felt like I was saying goodbye to a dear friend, the same can be said for the other members of my group too. Even during the drives and the uneventful parts of the itinerary, the bus was full of laughter.
Tourism is low due to the conflict in the middle east at the time of writing this, but Jordan remains peaceful and safe. We where welcomed to the country by locals and the lack of other travellers was an added bonus (although a shame for the tourism industry).
Amazing time and a fantastic guide
A wonderful and amazing trip! Would recommend to solo travellers. The star of the trip was our guide Motaz who was so knowledgable and always on hand. He was a fantastic representative of the Jordanian people and an so grateful that I had him as our guide. Amazing group and amazing memories! Could not recommend this trip enough
Amazing Guide for an amazing trip!
This was the best trip I have ever been on. Motaz was a fantastic guide and I would recommend any trip he runs!
Day 1: We landed early so walked around Aman before heading over to Madaba in the late afternoon. I felt very safe as a woman in my 20s. Lots of taxi drivers will offer to give you a ride, but they are polite and good mannered if you say no thank you. In the evening of day one thr group met in the Hotel and went for a lovely dinner. For a starter, main and two drinks it was about £18.
Day 2: This was the day we met our FANTASTIC guide, Motaz. We got onto the bus in the morning and headed out for our first hike. This was the most physically demanding hike, with a bit of scrambling. The local guide was great at helping the group and Motaz was a fountain of knowledge regarding local history and culture.
That evening we made our way over tk the first camp. The team there were fantastic. There were great facilities and electricity to charge up your devices. The hospitality was exemplary. This night was truly magical, with local food being served and an abundance of tea. Alcoholic drinks were also avaliable to buy here, if you wanted.
Day 3: Petra. This was an incredible day. We had petra to ourselves. Motaz, our guide, knows everything about the history and the best routes to take, to see everything. There are alot of small stools and people offering donkey rides. There is a fantastic photo spot in front of the treasury.
The hike here wasn't too intense, there are just alot of stairs on your way in.
Both cash and card is usable in Petra.
We went to the hotel then out to dinner, at a restaurant recommended by our guide. This was fabtastic local food. They were great at navigating any allergies or dietary requirements for the group.
Day 4: Wadi Rum. This day was great. We set off from the hotel bright and early and hopped on the bus.
We had a couple off stops to use the bathroom.
Then we got to our camp. Again, there were fantastic facilities and electricity in the tents.
We then hopped in a jeap and road for about 20 minutes before stopping off for a fantastic lunch in the desert. Then we went back in the jeaps and drove to the highest mountain.
This hike is challenging and you will need to pay close attention to your guide climbing up. The veiw at the top is pretty mind blowing, and you have a great sense of achievement when you reach it. Our guide, Motaz, was great at helping anyone who needed it with directions and assistance to complete the climb.
We then drove back in the jeaps at sunset - Bring a Fleece or Light coat - it gets very chilly.
Then back to the camp for dinner, again they were fantastic with allergies and dietary requirements while also showing us their amazing authentic cooking.
The tents got very cold at night so i would recommend wrapping up warm!
Day 5: Aqaba Beach Club. A few of us woke up early in Wadi Rum to go on a sunrise Camel ride. Our guide was able to arrange this for us. I would really recommend this experience.
We then had breakfast and set off to Aqaba to go to the beach club.
Our guide was able to organise for us to go on a glass bottom boat, and snorkel.
Our group chose to eat lunch and dinner at the beach club. They sell alchol here, if you want it.
Day 6: Boat day. We had a fantastic time on the boat with snorkeling and diving, for those with experience. There was lunch on board and it was a fantastic time.
In the evening our guide recommend a wonderful restaurant for our whole group, with sea views and fantastic hospitality.
Day 7: the dead sea. We set off early and took a drive to the dead sea. Our guide told us lots of information about the dead sea and answered all our questions. We then arrivedat the hotel and had a wonderful experience taking a dip in the dead sea. After that we had a lovely relax by the pool drinking mocktails.
Our guide was able to give us some tips and suggestions for what to do in Aman the following morning before our flight.
Then a drive back to Aman where we said goodbye to our driver and guide.
This was such a special trip where we met some incredible people and did some once in a lifetime activities. I would recommend highly!
Top Tips:
- Bring a Fleece or Coat
- Most places accept card
- bring flip flops, trainers and Hiking Boots
- bring cash to tip service worker's
- there are lots of animals around so be prepared for that
- alot of people assume that vegetarians will eat fish, speak to your guide and they can help you if you are plant based.
What to wear: We woar shorts and tshirts most days. We made sure we had covered shoulders in resturants. Please seem to be really relaxed about clothing.
Amazing trip with the perfect balance of adventure and chill
This trip was incredible! To be able to see so many of the sites of Jordan, but also have the time for some great hikes in some slightly less known areas was such a treat. And going from hiking and sandboarding in Wadi Rum in the morning to relaxing beachfront by the Red Sea that afternoon made me really appreciate how close everything is! The food was great, the accommodation was comfortable, the rocks were amazing and the Dead Sea was saltier than I could ever imagine.
Ahlam, our tour guide, was the best: fun, knowledgeable, friendly, and I loved meeting all our local guides too. I can recommend, if you have your diving ticket to enquire about upgrading from snorkelling to SCUBA diving from the boat - It was excellent diving with a highly professional company for a good rate.
Itinerary Activities
- Guided hike on the Shaq Al Reesh trail
- Guided panoramic tour of Shobak Castle
- Guided hike to approach Petra
- Visit to the ancient site of Petra
- Guided climb up Um Ad Dami (1800m) - Jordan's highest peak
- Guided hike through the canyons of Wadi Rum
- Visit to the Berenice Beach Club
- Snorkelling in the Red Sea via a specialist diving and snorkelling boat
- Swim – or float – in the Dead Sea
Guides
- Local, expert, English-speaking guides
Accommodation
- 5 nights in hotels
- 2 nights in a Bedouin camp
Meals
- 7 buffet breakfasts
- 5 packed or buffet-style lunches
- 2 Arabic dinners including zarb, a traditional dish cooked underground on hot coals
Transfers
- Arrival transfer from Amman Airport any time on Day 1
- Departure transfer to Amman Airport any time on Day 8
- All transfers during the trip
Equipment
- Fully equipped Bedouin tents
- All snorkelling gear
Our trips are hassle-free by design. We include all the activities and equipment, as well as many of the meals, so you can simply rock up with your rucksack and share the adventure with your new pals.
Travel to and from the trip
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Tips
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide can help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline:
- Guide: $5 per person, per day
- Driver: $3 per person, per day
Of course, you are free to tip more or less and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality – a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness. Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine, as their insurance offers all of the above.
Visas
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
Personal Expenses
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What do I need to bring?
- Main bag (duffel bag or small suitcase)
- Day pack (15-25 litres) to carry the essentials while hiking
- Light rain or windproof jacket
- Dry fit t-shirts or tops (shoulders covered)
- Hiking trousers or long shorts
- Buff or neck scarf
- Hiking boots (worn in)
- Hiking socks (synthetic or wool)
- Pyjamas/something to sleep in
- Swimwear
- Flip flops or sandals
- Walking poles (optional)
- Water bladder or 2 water bottles
- Sun protection (sun hat, sunglasses and suncreen)
- Insect repellent
- Personal first aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Toiletries (inc. travel towel and hand sanitiser)
- Toilet kit (toilet paper, wet wipes and ziplock baggies to carry out)
- Snacks
- Sleeping bag liner for the Bedouin camps (optional)
- Headtorch (optional) for the night in the desert
- Ear plugs (optional)
Accommodation in Madaba (Single)
Payable Before Departure
Accommodation in Madaba (Single)
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Accommodation in Madaba (Twin/Double)
Payable Before Departure
Accommodation in Madaba (Twin/Double)
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Accommodation in Amman (Single)
Payable Before Departure
Accommodation in Amman (Single)
…
Accommodation in Amman (Twin/Double)
Payable Before Departure
Accommodation in Amman (Twin/Double)
…
Optional Private Room & Tent Upgrade
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room & Tent Upgrade
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Private Airport Transfer to/from Amman or Madaba Hotel (one way)
Payable Before Departure
Private Airport Transfer to/from Amman or Madaba Hotel (one way)
…
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 444kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
We recommend booking more than 31 days in advance to guarantee your spot on the trip. If requesting to book less than 31 in advance, the host will need to check accommodation availability before accepting your booking (please do not book flights until your booking has been confirmed by the host). Due to high demand in Jordan, if requesting a spot within two weeks of departure, chances are that there won't be any availability – so the sooner you can make plans the better.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice however we suggest the below as a guideline per person:
Guide: $5 per person per day Driver: $3 per person per day
Of course, you are free to tip more or less and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality – a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Ramadan will take place from around 28th February to 30th March 2025. The national holiday of Eid ul-Fitr will follow for 2-3 days. Ramadan is an Islamic festival where the religious do not eat or drink during daylight hours. While this is a really interesting time to travel, you can expect some business hours will be shortened, alcohol is not permitted during daylight hours and some restaurants will be closed during this festival period. Activities for local people tend to be limited during the day and the nights are very active in cities with lots of different foods being sold and consumed. However in hotel restaurants and tourist areas food and drink are served as normal and Ramadan will not affect the inclusions on your trip. Liquor stores are likely to be closed for the month but in tourist enclaves bars stay open (although some may not allow alcohol outdoors - but inside is generally okay).
Yes. Trips to Jordan have been running as normal since the Israel conflict escalated in October 2023 – check out our latest customer reviews! Much Better Adventures operate trips in line with the British FCDO travel advice and also consult with security advisors, both of whom have confirmed that trips are safe to run. We continue to receive real-time updates from the FCDO and our local host in Jordan will also inform us immediately should anything change locally. In case you have any questions, we have prepared some additional information about travel to Jordan during the Israel Conflict.
For current Government advice about travelling in Jordan, have a read of the FCDO pages here.
This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely high during the times of year when this trip operates. High humidity and limited access to shade can also be factors, and warm temperatures can continue into the nighttime, which additionally influence the body’s ability to cool down. Personal care should be taken to keep cool as best possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration. Very high temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at cooler temperatures. People may experience symptoms associated with dehydration and Heat Stroke. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.
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DEPARTURE DATES
Saturday 15th March 2025
to Saturday 22nd March 2025
Early Bird Offer - Next 1 spot available at 10% off
