Highlights of Israel & Jordan
Experience the wonders of the Middle East
Begin a 12-night expedition through two of the Middle East's most beloved countries as you embark on a mix of independent travel and escorted tours. Enjoy plenty of leisure time on your own as well as guided programs which will help provide a full understanding of the sites and culture of the cities you visit.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Tel Aviv (TLV), out of Amman (AMM)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 6 nights in Jerusalem at the Dan Panorama Hotel Jerusalem, or similar
- Full-day tour of Jerusalem, with English-speaking guide, including entrance fees
- Full-day tour to the Dead Sea
- Full-day tour to Western Galilee - Caesarea, Haifa, Acre & Rosh Hanikra
- Half-day tour to Tel Aviv
- Transfer from Jerusalem hotel to Allenby Bridge (Israel side of border)
- Shuttle bus across the Israel/Jordan border
- Transfer from Allenby Bridge (Jordan side of border) to Amman hotel
- 1 night in Amman at the Bristol Hotel, or similar
- Guided tour of Madaba, Mount Nebo, Kings Highway (Kerak) & Shobak Castle
- 2 nights in Petra at the Old Village Hotel & Resort, or similar
- Guided city tour of Petra
- 1 night near the Dead Sea at the Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea, or similar
- Wadi Rum visit
- 2 nights in Amman at the Bristol Hotel, or similar
- Guided city tour of Amman
- Guided tour of Jerash & Ajloun Castle
- Breakfast daily
- Entrance fees to sites visited
- Transportation by modern, air-conditioned vehicles
- English-speaking tour guide on the specified touring days
*Please note: The order in which the Tel Aviv tours take place is subject to change, but all will be included.
**Please note: Modest dress is required for visiting holy sites (no shorts or sleeveless shirts; some sites may require head covering). Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
***Please note: You will be required to pay the Israeli border tax of USD $60 per person on the spot when crossing into Jordan.
In order to give you the best experience possible, this package is a combination of independent travel while in Israel (you have guided tours included but are not on a fully escorted tour) and a fully escorted program while in Jordan.
Great Ways to Explore
-
Snap a panoramic photo of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives.
- Treat your skin to a mud bath at the Dead Sea.
-
See the "City of Mosaics" in Madaba.
-
Explore archeological wonders in Petra.
-
See if you can spot a Tawny Owl in Wadi Rum!
Enjoy a 12-night sightseeing excursion through Israel and Jordan! With a combination of independent travel and escorted tours, you will get an exciting look at both countries' history, culture, sites, and attractions. Begin in Israel with stops in places such as Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Western Galilee, and Tel Aviv, then proceed to Jordan. There, you will explore places such as Madaba, Mount Nebo, Petra, Wadi Rum, and Amman City before the conclusion of this magnificent trip.
Helpful links for travel to Israel:
Helpful links for travel to Jordan:
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Tel Aviv (TLV), out of Amman (AMM)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 6 nights in Jerusalem at the Dan Panorama Hotel Jerusalem, or similar
- Full-day tour of Jerusalem, with English-speaking guide, including entrance fees
- Full-day tour to the Dead Sea
- Full-day tour to Western Galilee - Caesarea, Haifa, Acre & Rosh Hanikra
- Half-day tour to Tel Aviv
- Transfer from Jerusalem hotel to Allenby Bridge (Israel side of border)
- Shuttle bus across the Israel/Jordan border
- Transfer from Allenby Bridge (Jordan side of border) to Amman hotel
- 1 night in Amman at the Bristol Hotel, or similar
- Guided tour of Madaba, Mount Nebo, Kings Highway (Kerak) & Shobak Castle
- 2 nights in Petra at the Old Village Hotel & Resort, or similar
- Guided city tour of Petra
- 1 night near the Dead Sea at the Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea, or similar
- Wadi Rum visit
- 2 nights in Amman at the Bristol Hotel, or similar
- Guided city tour of Amman
- Guided tour of Jerash & Ajloun Castle
- Breakfast daily
- Entrance fees to sites visited
- Transportation by modern, air-conditioned vehicles
- English-speaking tour guide on the specified touring days
*Please note: The order in which the Tel Aviv tours take place is subject to change, but all will be included.
**Please note: Modest dress is required for visiting holy sites (no shorts or sleeveless shirts; some sites may require head covering). Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
***Please note: You will be required to pay the Israeli border tax of USD $60 per person on the spot when crossing into Jordan.
In order to give you the best experience possible, this package is a combination of independent travel while in Israel (you have guided tours included but are not on a fully escorted tour) and a fully escorted program while in Jordan.
-
Snap a panoramic photo of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives.
- Treat your skin to a mud bath at the Dead Sea.
-
See the "City of Mosaics" in Madaba.
-
Explore archeological wonders in Petra.
-
See if you can spot a Tawny Owl in Wadi Rum!
Enjoy a 12-night sightseeing excursion through Israel and Jordan! With a combination of independent travel and escorted tours, you will get an exciting look at both countries' history, culture, sites, and attractions. Begin in Israel with stops in places such as Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Western Galilee, and Tel Aviv, then proceed to Jordan. There, you will explore places such as Madaba, Mount Nebo, Petra, Wadi Rum, and Amman City before the conclusion of this magnificent trip.
Helpful links for travel to Israel:
Helpful links for travel to Jordan:
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Tel Aviv, Israel!
Land in Tel Aviv and enjoy a transfer to your hotel in Jerusalem! Settle into your accommodations and spend the rest of the evening at your leisure. Tomorrow, your adventure begins!
Transfer to Jerusalem hotel
Check-in - Dan Panorama Hotel Jerusalem
Located within walking distance of the Old City and historic landmarks along the way, Dan Panorama Hotel Jerusalem gives you access to the best Jerusalem's varied attractions just by stepping out the door. Across the street from the hotel is the Bloomfield Garden, which extends into the Yemin Moshe neighborhood. You can easily explore modern Jerusalem and the Old City on foot from the property. During your stay, you can enjoy the newly renovated, spacious guestrooms and spectacular city views from the hotel, rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym, and dynamic lobby bar offered by the hotel for your convenience and comfort.Â
Day 2. Jerusalem
Today, you'll get to explore the Mount of Olives as well as the Old City of Jerusalem and all its wonders. After that, you'll visit Yad Vashem museum then return to your hotel in Jerusalem for the evening. Â
Jerusalem (Full-Day Tour)
Your full day tour begins at the Mount of Olives for a panoramic view of the city. You'll then head over to Mount Zion and visit King David's Tomb, Last Supper Room and Dormition Abbey. After that, you'll visit the Old City of Jerusalem where you'll get to walk through the Armenian and Jewish quarter. See the throngs of worshippers at the Western Wall, also known as The Kotel, before continuing on to the Christian Quarter where you'll walk along Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of Holy Sepulchre. The last stop takes you to Yad Vashem museum and the Memorial to the Holocaust.
On Saturdays and Jewish holidays, instead of Yad Vashem, the tour will instead go to Ein Karem, known as the birthplace of John the Baptist, where you will stop by Mary's spring and visit the Church of Saint John the Baptist.
Day 3. Jerusalem
After breakfast, you'll cross the desert to the Dead Dea. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring along sunscreen, a hat, a bathing suit, and a towel!Â
Full-day tour to the Dead Sea
On this tour, visit Masada and float in the famous Dead Sea! From your hotel, drive via the Judean Hills to Masada, a mountaintop fortress built by King Herod. Ascend this ancient site by cable car and visit the remains of the walls, palace, synagogue, water cisterns, mosaic floors and Roman baths where the Zealots of the 1st century made their last stand against the Romans. Then, drive to the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, and float in the very salty waters and cover yourself in the mineral-rich mud!
Day 4. Jerusalem
This morning will begin with a tour to Western Galilee! The day will be spent exploring archaeological ruins, taking in scenic views of ancient cities, walking through markets, and visiting underground crypts. At the end of the day, you will return to your hotel in Jerusalem.Â
Full-day tour to Western Galilee - Caesarea, Haifa, Acre & Rosh Hanikra
Explore western Galilee on this tour! Drive along the coastal road to Caesarea, the ancient Roman capital and port, and visit the theater and archaeological ruins and excavations. You'll then drive to Haifa for a scenic view of the city, the port and the magnificent Bahai Gardens.
From Haifa, drive to Acre, the Old City recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Walk through the market and view the mosque and the old port. Visit the remarkable underground Crusader City and crypt and learn about its fascinating history and culture. End the day in Rosh Hanikra, where you will descend by cable into the limestone grottos and admire the spectacular natural formation.
Day 5. Jerusalem
Today will begin with a half-day tour of Tel Aviv. After that, you will return to your hotel in Jerusalem and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.Â
Half-day tour to Tel Aviv
Explore the vibrant city of Tel Aviv! Start with a visit to the Diaspora Museum, then drive to Rabin's Square, where Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated in 1995. Continue to Jaffa, a port city that is the oldest part of Tel Aviv. Visit the ancient ruins and walk along the restored artists' quarter.
From Jaffa, visit Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv's first neighborhood built in 1887. Visit Nahalat Benyamin, the pedestrian street of the city where you can enjoy street musicians and find handmade jewelry and artifacts. Continue to colorful Sheinkin Street known for its unique shops, cafes and youthful ambiance. Return to your hotel in Jerusalem and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 6. Jerusalem
You'll have the full day to spend at your leisure. This is a great opportunity to explore on your own as you please! This is a great opportunity to check out some local gems like the Tisch Family Zoological Park or the Museum on the Seam.
Day 7. Jerusalem - Amman, Jordan
After breakfast, you'll be picked up at the hotel and make your way to Allenby Bridge. You will be dropped at the border, where you will be instructed where to go for passport control and for the payment of your Israeli border tax. You will then take a shuttle bus across the border and go through passport control again.
After that, you will be met by your Jordanian guide, who will assist with obtaining your Jordanian Visa. Then, you will transfer to your hotel and check-in. The rest of the day will be spent at your leisure.Â
A Tip For Your Trip: You will be required to pay the Israeli border tax of USD $60 per person on the spot when crossing into Jordan. This is not included in the package price.
Transfer from hotel to border
Shuttle across border
Transfer from border to hotel
Check-in - Bristol Hotel Amman
Stay close to the city at the Bristol Hotel, a 5-star accommodation in Amman. Relax in comfort from each of the individual guestrooms that come equipped with an in-room safe, Wi-Fi, LCD flat panel TV, marble bathrooms, and terrycloth bathrobes. Breakfast is served daily in the bar in addition to Mediterranean cuisine at the restaurant and drinks and snacks at the lobby bar. Enjoy a variety of spa treatments including steam baths and massage as well as fitness classes and a gym. The Bristol Hotel is located within a short distance to King Abdullah I Mosque, the ancient ruins at Jebel al-Qala'a and within a 35-minute drive from Queen Alia International Airport.Â
Day 8. Amman - Petra
After breakfast, get ready for a day packed with exploring!Â
Check-in - Old Village Hotel & Resort
Located one mile from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Petra, the Old Village Hotel & Resort puts you right in the heart of one of the world's great man-made wonders. Situated on the outskirts of Wadi Musa and overlooking the Sahara Mountains, the hotel offers five-star comforts for all travelers. Relax and enjoy a sweet cup of mint tea or Arabic coffee while enjoying the spectacular sunset over the mountains.
All rooms have Wi-Fi access, tea and coffee making facilities, television, air conditioning, safe deposit box and a mini bar, while bathrooms are well equipped with bath/shower, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Rooms are furnished to reflect the history and culture of the area as well as showcase local handicrafts. There is an indoor swimming pool and sauna for relaxation after a busy day exploring Petra. From the hotel, enjoy free shuttle transportation to Petra Visitor center.Â
Guided tour of Madaba, Mount Nebo, Kings Highway (Kerak) & Shobak Castle
The trip south from Amman along the 5,000-year-old Kings Highway is one of the most memorable journeys in the Holy Land, passing through a string of ancient sites. The first city you will encounter is Madaba, “the City of Mosaics." The city, best known for its spectacular Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, is home to the famous 6th-century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land. With two million pieces of colored stone, the map depicts hills and valleys, villages and towns as far as the Nile Delta. Other mosaic masterpieces found in the Church of the Virgin and the Apostles and the Archaeological Museum depict a rampant profusion of flowers and plants, birds and fish, animals and exotic beasts, as well as scenes from mythology and everyday pursuits of hunting, fishing, and farming. Literally hundreds of other mosaics from the 5th through the 7th centuries are scattered throughout Madaba's churches and homes.
From Mount Nebo’s windswept promontory overlooking the Dead Sea, the Jordan River Valley, Jericho and the distant hills of Jerusalem, Moses viewed the Holy Land of Canaan that he would never enter. He died and was buried in Moab, "in the valley opposite Beth-Peor" (Deuteronomy 34:6). His tomb remains unknown. After consulting the Oracle, Jeremiah reportedly hid the Ark of the Covenant, the Tent and the Altar of Incense at Mount Nebo.
Mount Nebo became a place of pilgrimage for early Christians from Jerusalem and a small church was built there in the 4th century to commemorate the end of Moses' life. Some of the stones from that church remain in their original place in the wall around the apse area. The church was subsequently expanded in the 5th and 6th centuries into the present-day large basilica with its stunning collection of Byzantine mosaics.
The Serpentine Cross, which stands just outside the sanctuary, is symbolic of the bronze (or brazen) serpent taken by Moses into the desert and the cross upon which Jesus was crucified.
The Kings' Highway winds its way through the different ecological zones of the country, including forested highlands, open farmland plateaus, deep ravines, the edge of the Eastern Desert, and the warm tropical Gulf of Aqaba. Lining both sides of this 207-mile thoroughfare is a rich chain of archaeological sites that reads like an index of ancient history and a biblical gazetteer - prehistoric villages from the Stone Age, biblical towns from the kingdoms of Ammon, Moab and Edom, Crusader Castles, some of the finest early Christian Byzantine mosaics in the Middle East, a Roman-Herodian fortress, several Nabataean temples, two major Roman fortresses, early Islamic towns, and the rock-cut Nabataean capital of Petra. First mentioned by name in the Bible, the Kings' Highway was the route that Moses wished to follow as he led his people north through the land of Edom, which today is in southern Jordan. The name may, however, derive from the even earlier episode recounted in Genesis 14, when an alliance of "four kings from the north" marched their troops along this route to do battle against the five kings of the Cities of the Plain, including the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah.
A lonely reminder of former Crusader glory is Shobak Castle, less than an hour north of Petra. Once called "Mont Real," Showbak dates from the same turbulent period as Karak. It is perched on the side of a mountain, with a grand sweep of fruit trees below. The castle's exterior is impressive, with a foreboding gate and encircling triple wall. Despite the precautions of its builder, the fortress fell to Saladin only 75 years after it was raised. Inscriptions by his proud successors appear on the castle wall.
Day 9. Petra
After breakfast, you'll tour the city of Petra and discover the famous monuments of the city. This evening, you'll spend the night in the accommodations in Petra.Â
Guided city tour of Petra
The ancient city of Petra is one of Jordan's national treasures and by far its best-known tourist attraction. Located approximately three hours south of Amman, Petra is the legacy of the Nabataeans, an industrious Arab people who settled in southern Jordan more than 2,000 years ago.
Admired then for its refined culture, massive architecture and ingenious complex of dams and water channels, Petra is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that enchants visitors from all corners of the globe. Much of Petra's appeal comes from its spectacular setting deep inside a narrow desert gorge. The site is accessed by walking through a 0.62-mile-long chasm (or siq), the walls of which soar 650 feet upwards.
Petra's most famous monument, the Treasury, appears dramatically at the end of the Siq. Used in the final sequence of the film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, the towering façade of the Treasury is only one of the myriad archaeological wonders to be explored at Petra. Various walks and climbs reveal literally hundreds of buildings, tombs, baths, funerary halls, temples, arched gateways, colonnaded streets, and haunting rock drawings - as well as a 3,000 seat open-air theatre, a gigantic 1st-century Monastery, and a modern archeological museum, all of which can be explored at leisure. A modest shrine commemorating the death of Aaron, brother of Moses, was built in the 13th century by the Mamluk Sultan, high atop mount Aaron in the Sharah range.
Day 10. Petra - Dead Sea
Your excursion today will be a visit to Wadi Rum, a landscape unlike anywhere else in the world. After the tour, you will make your way to your accommodation in the Dead Sea area.Â
Check-in - Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea
Float in the ethereal Dead Sea just steps away at the Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea. A 45-minute drive from Queen Alia International Airport, the 5-star hotel comes with its own private beach bordering the world’s most famous salt lake. From your bright, spacious room sit out on the balcony or terrace and take in views of the Dead Sea or mountains.Â
In addition to the healing properties of the Dead Sea, guests can enjoy three pools, including an infinity pool, Dive Inn Bar and children's area. Luxurious massages and facial treatments are also available, using Dead Sea products of course. Watch the sunset with a refreshing drink on the terrace or enjoy live music. Dining options include several options, too.Â
Wadi Rum Visit
The moonlike landscape of Wadi Rum is unique to the world. The desert is dotted with massive mountains, colored in shades of red, yellow, and orange. Their hues spill over to color the sand dunes around the desert and the horizon of its breathtaking panorama.
This is a place where you can become one with nature, where visitors are humbled by the towering mountains and overwhelmed by the serenity and quiet ambiance of this magnificent place.
The eco-system of Wadi Rum holds many rare and endemic plants. Spring reveals hundreds of species of wildflowers, while about 120 bird species have been recorded in the area, including the Griffon Vulture, the Fan-Tailed Raven, Bonelli’s Eagle, and Hume’s Tawny Owl. Baseline surveys show the existence of the Grey Wolf, Blandford’s Fox, the Sand Cat, and the Ibex within the area.
One activity which keeps attracting thrill-seekers to Wadi Rum is mountain climbing. Ascents can range from simple hikes to serious 3,000 feet climbs up sheer granite and sandstone cliffs.
Day 11. Dead Sea - Amman
Today's trip will take you through the ancient city of Amman, where you will get to explore the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. After the tour, you will spend the night in Amman.
Check-in - Bristol Hotel Amman
Stay close to the city at the Bristol Hotel, a 5-star accommodation in Amman. Relax in comfort from each of the individual guestrooms that come equipped with an in-room safe, Wi-Fi, LCD flat panel TV, marble bathrooms, and terrycloth bathrobes. Breakfast is served daily in the bar in addition to Mediterranean cuisine at the restaurant and drinks and snacks at the lobby bar. Enjoy a variety of spa treatments including steam baths and massage as well as fitness classes and a gym. The Bristol Hotel is located within a short distance to King Abdullah I Mosque, the ancient ruins at Jebel al-Qala'a and within a 35-minute drive from Queen Alia International Airport.Â
Guided City Tour of Amman
A sprawling city spread over 19 hills or "jebels," Amman is the modern - as well as the ancient - capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Known as Rabbath-Ammon during the Iron Age and later as Philadelphia, the ancient city that was once part of the Decapolis league, it now boasts a population of around 2.3 million people. Amman is often referred to as the White City due to its low size canvas of stone houses.
There are a number of renovations and excavations taking place that have revealed remains from the Neolithic period, as well as from the Hellenistic and late Roman to Arab Islamic Ages. The site which is known as the Citadel includes many structures such as the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace and the Byzantine Church.
At the foot of the Citadel lies the 6,000-seat Roman Theatre, which is a deep-sided bowl carved into the hill and is still being used for cultural events. Another newly restored theatre is the 500-seat Odeon that is used for concerts. The three museums found in the area offer a glimpse of history and culture; they are the Jordan Archaeological Museum, The Folklore Museum and the Museum of Popular Traditions.
Day 12. Amman
Your final day of touring will be spent in Jerash and at the Ajloun Castle. Once that tour is over, you will return to your hotel in Amman for your final night in Jordan.Â
Guided tour of Jerash & Ajloun Castle
A close second to Petra on the list of favorite destinations in Jordan, the ancient city of Jerash boasts an unbroken chain of human occupation dating back more than 6,500 years. The city's golden age came under Roman rule and the site is now generally acknowledged to be one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world.
Hidden for centuries in sand before being excavated and restored over the past 70 years, Jerash reveals a fine example of the grand, formal provincial Roman urbanism that is found throughout the Middle East, comprising paved and colonnaded streets, soaring hilltop temples, handsome theatres, spacious public squares and plazas, baths, fountains and city walls pierced by towers and gates. Beneath its external Greco-Roman veneer, Jerash also preserves a subtle blend of east and west. Its architecture, religion, and languages reflect a process by which two powerful cultures meshed and coexisted - The Greco-Roman world of the Mediterranean basin and the ancient traditions of the Arab Orient.
Ajloun Castle (also known as Qa'lat ar-Rabad) was built in 1184 by 'Izz ad-Din Usama bin Munqidh, a general of Saladin, who defeated the Crusaders in 1187. A fine example of Islamic architecture, the fortress dominated a wide stretch of the northern Jordan Valley and passages to it. From its hilltop position, Ajloun Castle protected the communication routes between south Jordan and Syria and was one of a chain of forts that lit beacons at night to pass signals from the Euphrates as far as Cairo. Today, Ajloun Castle is a splendid sight with a fascinating mix of towers, chambers, galleries, and staircases to explore, while its hilltop position offers stunning views of the Jordan Valley.
Day 13. Depart Jordan
Now it's time to pack up your bags, say "so long" to your travel companions, and board your flight back home!