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Petra & Dubai Tour
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Petra & Dubai OVERVIEW

TOUR SUMMARY

9 days

Amman to Dubai

From

$1480 (p/p)

Country(ies): Jordan , United Arab Emirates

Tour type: Small Group

Group size: Min: 2 | Max: 18

Accommodation:4-star hotels and Bedouin camp (upgrades available)

Meals: Breakfasts - 8, Lunches - 0, Dinners - 2

Transport: Private AC car/minibus & Bedouin jeep

Highlights:Bustling Amman, Roman ruins at Jerash, Amman Food Tasting, Wild Jordan Centre, Roman mosaics at Madaba, views over Israel from Mt. Nebo, scenic Kings Highway drive, Shobak crusader castle, Full day in Petra, Wadi Rum jeep safari & Bedouin camp, Dead Sea overnight stay, Dubai city tour, Dhow Cruise on Dubai creek

This tour commences in Amman, Jordan's vibrant capital. Upon arrival and after settling into your hotel, your exploration begins with a visit to Jerash, renowned for its extensive and well-preserved Roman architectural splendours. You will then return to Amman to delve into the city's rich past, visiting landmarks such as the Citadel and the historic Roman Theatre, before immersing yourself in the local culture with a street food tasting in Downtown Amman. The evening offers an engaging visit to the Wild Jordan Centre, providing insight into the country's conservation initiatives.

Next, your journey takes you along the picturesque King's Highway towards the legendary city of Petra. This leg of the trip includes several fascinating stops: Madaba, where you'll discover the famous 6th-century Byzantine mosaic map; Mount Nebo, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the Jordan Valley; and the imposing Crusader-era Shobak Castle. Once in Petra, the evening is yours to enjoy, with possibilities such as the atmospheric Petra by Candlelight experience or a hands-on lesson in Jordanian cuisine. An entire day is then devoted to uncovering the secrets of the ancient Nabataean city of Petra. A guided tour will lead you through the narrow Siq to the awe-inspiring Treasury, after which you'll have ample free time to discover other marvels, like the impressive Monastery. Following this immersive experience, you'll travel to the spectacular desert landscapes of Wadi Rum for an unforgettable overnight stay in a traditional Bedouin camp, enjoying a customary dinner beneath the stars. Optional activities here include camel rides or an astronomy session.

The adventure continues with an exhilarating jeep safari through the stunning desert terrain of Wadi Rum. Afterwards, you'll journey north to the Dead Sea, one of the world's most extraordinary natural and spiritual sites. You will have time here to experience the unique sensation of floating in its dense, mineral-rich waters and perhaps try the therapeutic Dead Sea mud treatments. For those seeking more adventure, an optional trek through the water-filled canyons of Wadi Mujib might be available, depending on the season. Later, you will transfer to Amman's Queen Alia International Airport for your flight to the dazzling city of Dubai (please note, this flight is not included in the tour package price). Upon arrival in Dubai, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, with the remainder of the day free to acclimatise and begin exploring this dynamic emirate.

Whilst in Dubai you'll have a comprehensive city tour, showcasing its fascinating blend of heritage and futuristic vision. You'll see iconic sights like the Burj Al Arab, wander through the historic Al Bastakiya quarter, visit the Dubai Museum housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, enjoy a traditional abra (water taxi) ride across Dubai Creek, and explore the vibrant Spice and Gold Souks. A highlight of this tour is the ascent to the observation decks of the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, for unparalleled views. An optional desert safari is also available, offering an exciting dune riding experience, opportunities for stunning sunset photography, and an evening filled with traditional entertainment and a barbecue dinner under the desert sky. You'll also have leisure time for independent exploration or relaxation. A memorable Dhow Dinner Cruise along Dubai Creek is planned for one evening, providing beautiful nighttime views of the city skyline, accompanied by a delicious buffet and traditional entertainment. Finally, after some last-minute sightseeing or shopping, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.

ITINERARY

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Upon arrival in Amman's Queen Alia International Airport, one of our staff members will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of Jordan's bustling capital city.

You'll have some time to settle in and the rest of the day is then free to explore your new surroundings independently, or rest after your journey to Jordan.

OVERNIGHT:

Amman hotel

MEALS:

None

EXTRAS:

Extra day in Amman - pre-tour - Standard level

Extra day in Amman - pre-tour - Superior level

Single room supplement - Standard Hotels (JOSHBJ)

Single room supplement - Superior Hotels (JOSHJS)


We begin our day travelling north from Amman to the nearby city of Jerash, home to one of the largest and best-preserved examples of Roman architecture outside of Italy. Often called the 'Jewel of the North', Jerash reveals an unbroken history of human settlement stretching back over 6,500 years. Hidden beneath sand for centuries, extensive excavations and restorations over the last 70 years have uncovered a remarkable example of the grand, formal Roman provincial urbanism typical throughout the Middle East.

Upon returning to Amman in the afternoon, we explore Jordan's capital, famously known as the 'white city' due to its abundance of white limestone buildings. Amman's history spans millennia, with archaeological work uncovering remains from the Neolithic period through the Hellenistic, late Roman, and Arab Islamic eras. Our tour includes the Citadel, the historic site of the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and the Byzantine Church. We will also visit the impressive 6,000-seat Roman Theatre, dating back to when the city was known as Philadelphia.

Following our exploration of the historical sites, we delve into the vibrant atmosphere of Downtown Amman with a street food tasting experience. You'll have the chance to sample local delicacies, which typically include sweet Kunefa, refreshing Sugar Cane Juice, and savoury Falafel, though specific offerings may vary based on availability during our visit.

Afterwards, there will be time to return to the hotel to refresh before our evening activity. To conclude our day, we'll enjoy an evening visit to the Wild Jordan Centre. This unique establishment is not only a fantastic spot to relax but also plays a crucial role in supporting Jordan's natural heritage and local communities. It serves as a hub for the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature's ecotourism and handicraft projects, promoting sustainability by generating income for rural communities living in and around Jordan's nature reserves and aiding conservation efforts. For those who would prefer a more relaxed evening, you are welcome to remain at the hotel instead.

OVERNIGHT:

Amman hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


We leave Amman behind us today as we drive along the scenic King's Highway towards Petra. The drive itself is beautiful, crossing deep wadis, passing through olive groves, and navigating remote rural villages, offering you a unique insight into the daily lives of the local people.

Our first stop will be at Madaba, where we visit the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, famed for its remarkable 6th-century Byzantine mosaic map depicting the Holy Land and other biblical sites. Next, we'll venture up Mount Nebo, a significant viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views over the Jordan Valley towards the Holy Land.

We'll hit the road once more, this time crossing the stunning Wadi al-Mujib gorge. The route winds through olive groves before climbing over the deep canyon until we reach Shobak Castle. Perched dramatically on a mountainside, Shobak is another impressive example of the Crusader castles built during the early 12th century to guard the vital trade routes between Egypt and Damascus.

Upon arrival in Petra, we'll check into our hotel. This evening offers two optional activities for you to choose from. You could opt for a magical first glimpse of Petra with the atmospheric Petra by Candlelight experience, walking through the Siq canyon to see the iconic Treasury illuminated solely by hundreds of candles. Alternatively, food enthusiasts might enjoy participating in a hands-on cooking class at the renowned Petra Kitchen, learning the secrets of preparing traditional Jordanian dishes. Please note that pre-booking is essential for the Petra Kitchen experience as it is very popular and spaces are limited.

OVERNIGHT:

Petra hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

Petra by night (local payment)

Petra Kitchen - Cooking Class


Today is all about exploring the Nabataean site of Petra. It was once the ancient capital of the Nabataean commercial empire until the Romans finally took over in 106 AD. For a long period, Petra was forgotten – except by the local Bedouins – before it was rediscovered in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. Petra is found at the edge of the Wadi Araba desert, where canyon walls and towering hills make it virtually inaccessible, except via a narrow cleft in the rock known as the Siq. There are very few free-standing buildings in Petra, as the Nabataeans chose to carve their dwellings into the multicoloured sandstone cliffs. Petra has become one of Jordan's main tourist attractions.

We have most of the day available today to explore this ancient city (a 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 Nabataean water channel still visible on one wall, and remnants of the terracotta pipes that brought water into the city are also present. 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. 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, providing breathtaking views of the Wadi Araba desert and the Jordan Valley. Another climb takes you to the High Place of Sacrifice and the Lion Fountain. All in all, this is a full and tiring, 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, plus distance 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 golf buggies are available for around 25 USD per person one way 40 USD per person round trip to take you on the 1.2km journey through the Siq to the Treasury and back again at an agreed time. Horse carriages are also available but we recommend against using these due to animal welfare reasons.

Later in the afternoon, we leave Petra and drive into the spectacular desert scenery of Wadi Rum. Whilst staying in Wadi Rum, several optional activities are available to enhance your desert experience, such as taking a traditional camel ride through the sand dunes, soaring above the landscape on a hot air balloon flight (typically at dawn, weather permitting), or enjoying an adventurous desert quad biking excursion. Upon arrival at our camp, friendly Bedouin hosts will greet us at our comfortable site, nestled beneath towering rocks and cliffs. We spend the evening relaxing at the camp and enjoying a delicious traditional Jordanian meal. As night falls and the stars emerge, there is also an option to join a captivating astronomy experience, taking advantage of Wadi Rum's exceptionally clear desert skies and unique vantage point to observe stars, constellations, and planets in incredible detail.

OVERNIGHT:

Wadi Rum Bedouin camp

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

Camel Ride in Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum Astronomy Experience

Wadi Rum Hot Air Balloon Flight

Wadi Rum Quad Bikes


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 T.E. Lawrence during his visits to the desert during the Arab Revolt and were later famed in the movie Lawrence of Arabia. We'll take a jeep safari through the stunning desert landscape, seeing more of the sheer cliffs and bizarre, weathered 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 natural and spiritual landscapes. Not only is it the lowest point on Earth, at approximately 400 metres below sea level, but it's also 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 with no outlet, so they evaporate under the intense desert sun. This process leaves behind a dense, rich cocktail of salts and minerals, renowned worldwide and supplying the cosmetics, agriculture, and medicine industries with some of their finest raw products.

The Dead Sea is flanked by mountains to the east and the rolling hills towards Jerusalem to the west, giving it an almost otherworldly beauty. Although sparsely populated and serenely quiet now, the area is believed by some to have been home to five Biblical cities: Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Zoar (Bela).

Upon arrival at our hotel located on the shores of the Dead Sea, we will check in for our overnight stay. You'll have plenty of time this afternoon and the following morning to fully experience the buoyant waters, perhaps indulge in the therapeutic Dead Sea mud treatments, or enjoy other spa therapies available at the hotel. Normal swimming is near impossible; it's much easier (and certainly more photogenic!) simply to float effortlessly on the surface. Remember to avoid splashing water into your eyes, as the high salt concentration will cause stinging.

For the adventurous, and typically during the summer months (usually April to October, subject to local conditions and opening times), an optional excursion to the nearby Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve is available, offering a chance for an exciting siq trek through water-filled canyons.

OVERNIGHT:

Dead Sea resort

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

Wadi Mujib Day Trip - Siq Trail


After bidding farewell to Jordan, you'll head to Amman's Queen Alia International Airport for your flight to Dubai. When you land, one of our representatives will be waiting to meet you and take you to your hotel in the heart of Dubai – a city famous for upscale shopping, striking modern buildings, and a buzzing nightlife scene. The rest of the day is yours to settle in, explore your new surroundings, or simply relax after arriving in the UAE.

Please be aware: The flight from Amman to Dubai isn't part of the tour package price. Booking this flight as part of your main international ticket is usually the cheapest option. However, if you'd like us to book this single flight for you, we're happy to help. Contact us for the latest flight prices.

OVERNIGHT:

Dubai hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Embark on an enthralling cultural exploration of Dubai, unveiling some of its most captivating and renowned landmarks. Please note that this is a shared seat-in-coach tour, which may involve pick-ups from multiple hotels.

Your journey will commence with an opportunity to photograph the Jumeirah Mosque, a magnificent illustration of Islamic design. Following this, delve into the Bastakia Quarter, the city's most historic district, where you will encounter the traditional Wind Towers, ingeniously utilised in bygone eras as a natural form of air conditioning.

The tour continues with a visit to the Dubai Museum, housed within the 150-year-old Al Fahidi Fort. Here, you will gain fascinating insights into Dubai's rich heritage, particularly its historical connections to the pearl trading and fishing industries.

Next, experience a picturesque Abra ride across the famed Dubai Creek. This traditional water taxi offers a distinctive perspective of the lively waterfront and the dynamic pulse of Dubai. Subsequently, we will venture to the Deira side of Dubai to explore the fragrant Spice Souk and the glittering Gold Souk. At the Gold Souk, you will find an array of exquisite gold jewellery, often at more competitive prices than in Europe.

The tour culminates with a truly memorable visit to the Burj Khalifa. Ascend to the 124th and 125th floors of the world's tallest edifice, where you will be treated to awe-inspiring panoramic vistas encompassing the city, the desert, and the ocean.

OVERNIGHT:

Dubai hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

Dubai desert safari


Enjoy a leisurely start to your day, as the morning is yours to spend as you please. You might choose to sleep in a little later, savour a relaxed breakfast at your hotel, or perhaps take the opportunity to explore more of Dubai independently. You could revisit a favourite spot, indulge in some retail therapy at one of the city's magnificent shopping centres, discover a hidden gem in a local neighbourhood, or simply relax by the hotel pool and soak up the sunshine.

Later in the afternoon, prepare for a charming evening experience. You will be conveniently picked up from your hotel and transported to the historic Dubai Creek. Here, you will board a traditional wooden dhow for a delightful dinner cruise. As the dhow glides gently along the moonlit waters, you'll be treated to stunning views of the old and new Dubai skylines, including the beautifully illuminated souks and modern architectural marvels. A delicious buffet dinner, featuring a variety of local and international dishes, will be served onboard. To complete this enchanting evening, you will enjoy captivating entertainment, which often includes live traditional music and a mesmerising Tanura dance show, where a performer in a colourful, weighted skirt spins gracefully, creating a truly memorable cultural spectacle before you are returned to your hotel.

OVERNIGHT:

Dubai hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


You have some free time to do some last minute sightseeing or shopping before we collect you and transfer you to the airport to board your flight back home.

OVERNIGHT:

N/A

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

Extra day in Dubai post-tour - Standard level

Extra day in Dubai post-tour - Superior level


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Included:
  • Accommodation in locally rated 4-star hotels (upgrade available)
  • 1 night in Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum
  • Transport and transfers in AC vehicles
  • 4x4 Bedouin jeep safari in Wadi Rum
  • Dead Sea Overnight Stay
  • Amman Food Tasting Experience
  • Visit the Wild Jordan Centre supporting sustainability
  • 24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
  • Services of a specialist tour guide for all sightseeing tours
  • Shared Seat in Coach Day Trips whilst in Dubai
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Excluded:
  • International flights (available on request)
  • Amman to Dubai flight (can often be included in your main international flight ticket)
  • Jordan visa & site entrance fees (see notes on the Jordan Pass - 70JD)
  • Dubai visa fees (currently free or not required for most nationalities)
  • Dubai tourism tax (payable at the hotel - AUD 15 per room per night)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory, get quote here)
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Drinks, snacks, tips and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
  • Any other items not mentioned above
Notes:

Similar tours:
The following tours also feature time in Jordan and can have the same Dubai section added to the end on request:

  • Best of Jordan - adds a tour to As Salt and the Baptism Site at Bethany to make 7 days in Jordan
  • A Week in Jordan - adds As Salt and Bethany to the start, and a trip to Jordan's desert castles at the end to make 8 days in Jordan
  • Jordan Encounters - our signature 8-day small group tour of Jordan
  • Jordan & Egypt Explorer - adds As Salt and Bethany, and then 9 days exploring Egypt at the end of the tour

Related Tours

If you are looking for a tour and not finding what you are looking for, have a look at our best other related tours to check out for your travel plans. At Encounters Travel, we offer a variety of tours to suit your needs. So sit back, relax, and let us help you plan the perfect getaway.

Dates and Prices

We offer the choice of two accommodation levels on Jordan section of this tour. Our standard hotel package in 3 & 4-star accommodation in Amman, Petra & Dead Sea. The Superior hotel package includes 4/5-star accommodation in these locations.

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Select the currency that works best for you by clicking one of the icons below. Whether you prefer US Dollars (USD), Euros (EUR), British Pounds (GBP), or any of our other supported currencies, simply tap the flag or symbol to instantly update all prices site-wide.

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Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

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Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

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Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo Maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo

Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

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Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo Maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo

Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

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Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

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Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

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Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

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Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo Maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo

Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo Maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo

Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

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Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

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Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

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Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

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Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.

Options

Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the destination you're visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.

All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, cruise upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Other options may either be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.

Many options are priced the same throughout the year, but some may incur single or high season supplements - full details are given on the tour reservation form or on request.

TOUR NOTES

The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.

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We use good quality hotels rated at the local 3 & 4-star level on this tour. Accommodation is based on twin or double en-suite rooms with air conditioning. All couples will stay in a private double room.

In Wadi Rum we use a comfortable Bedouin camp located on the desert sands, against the cliffs. Accommodation is in permanent traditional goat hair tents with proper beds and all bedding provided. Bathrooms are separate, though en-suite tents are also available and upgrades are available if required. You can also bring a sleeping bag if you wish, and find a sheltered spot on the rocks on the edge of the camp and sleep under the stars. 

An upgrade is also available to local 5-star hotels in Amman, Petra and Dubai if you would like a more luxurious stay - you will find both our standard and superior accommodation options available to book from the dates and prices tab. These can be considered basic international 5-star level in Amman, and decent 4-star level in Petra. Typical hotels used are the Landmark or Le Grand in Amman which are modern style hotels, and the Old Village Resort or Hyatt Zaman in Petra which are more traditional characterful properties.

In Dubai you will be required to pay a tourism tax when checking into your hotel. The cost of this is 15 AED per room per night, payable directly to the hotel.

Please check the Single Room Supplement option for details on room sharing options and charges for solo travellers on this tour.


Our trips feature a mix of different transport options. We want you to feel like you're really experiencing the country you're travelling through, but at the same time we want you to finish journeys refreshed enough to enjoy the next stage of the tour. The small distances involved on this tour mean that we use private vehicles throughout this tour. These will be minivans, minibuses, coaches and jeeps, depending on the number of travellers in the group.

The jeeps used in Wadi Rum are provided by the local Bedouins we work with, and while suitable for your desert safari, they may fall below the normal safety and quality standards for vehicles we use during the rest of our tours.


Your airport transfers are only included on the first and last day of the set tour itinerary, plus on any additional days if you book your hotel room with us. Your airport transfers are also included at either end of the Amman-Dubai flight. If you make your own arrangements for additional accommodation at either the beginning or the end of the tour then you will need to arrange your own airport transfers on these days.

On our Shoestring group tours we do offer optional hotel upgrades. This may mean that additional pick-up and drop-offs are required each day. We do endeavour to ensure that all hotels used are close to each other and to streamline and time arrangements to limit any extra driving time as much as possible.

The sightseeing tours and activities in Dubai are on a 'seat in coach' basis and may involve several hotel pick ups and drop offs at either end of the trip.


As one of our Small-Group tours, maximum group sizes are restricted to 18 people, while the tour is guaranteed to depart with a minimum of just 2.
A professional licensed guide accompanies all groups of 5 or more throughout the time in Jordan. For groups of 2-4, one of our experienced English speaking drivers will escort the group with specialist local site guides used for the tours in Jerash, Amman (Citadel), and Petra. 
At Encounters Travel we aim to only use local Jordanian guides and reps. We feel this gives you the best experience of the country and the sites you are seeing as well as supporting the local population and economy.

Whilst in Dubai your time is more independent and there will not be an escort guide or tour leader with you. Instead our local representative will greet you at the airport and be available if required. The tours and activities are then on a shared 'Seat in Coach' basis and you may be with a different group of passengers on each of the tours whilst in Dubai.


The tour price does not include entrance fees to the sites visited on the tour in Jordan. Any entrances fees in Dubai are included.

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). 

More information about the Jordan Pass


We want to give you as much flexibility as possible when it comes to booking your holiday with us. So, to take account of people with varying travel plans, we don't include your international flights in the main tour price. We are however very happy to book your flights for you, and our ATOL (UK flight sales license) covers all holidays booked together with a flight from the UK.

Please note that the international flight between Amman and Dubai is also not included in the cost of this tour as it is often cheaper to include this on your main international flights reservation if you are flying with the same airline or with code-share partners.

Please contact us with your preferred dates and departure airport and we'll give you a selection of airlines, times and fares to choose from. Your airport arrival & departure transfers are included on the first and last days of the tour and for the Amman-Dubai flihgt whether you book your flights independently or through us.


We run regular small-group departures on this tour starting on Tuesdays throughout the year. All departures are guaranteed to run with a minimum of 2 participants. Departure dates & prices are given on our website (please check the website for up-to-date prices & special offers).


If you would like to book a place on this tour, please complete the online reservation form on our website (via the Dates & Prices tab on the tour page). You may make a deposit or full payment online, or just hold a reservation if you prefer (full payments are due 8 weeks before departure). We will then contact you with more details about how to complete your booking. Payments may be made by debit or credit card (subject to a card processing fee), or by making a bank transfer, or posting us a cheque/bank draft. Full details will be provided in your booking confirmation email. Please contact us if you would like any more information or have any questions before making a booking.


We are a UK registered company and are committed to providing our customers with financial protection to provide peace of mind and to allow you to book with confidence.
We have therefore partnered with Trust My Travel Ltd., which provides financial protection services to over 2000 partners around the world. Funds paid to us by our customers are protected via an Insurance policy held by Trust My Travel. Each traveller and the description of services sold is declared against Trust My Travel’s insurance policy directly against our financial failure. In the event of our insolvency, you will be refunded for any unfulfilled products and/or repatriation to the UK (where applicable). Please see our website or booking conditions for more information.


It is impossible not to have an impact on the local environment, cultures and eco-systems when you travel. However, it is very possible to try and ensure that these impacts are as limited, or positive as possible. We are committed to ensuring that we try to leave our host countries in a better state than we found them and encourage and assist our travellers to help us with this.
The following are a few simple tips that require very little effort on your part but which will help ensure that any effect you have on the locations you visit is positive rather than negative.

  • Don't prejudge: Things in different countries will almost certainly be different. That doesn't make them worse or inferior, just different.
  • Communicate: Don't expect locals to speak your language. Take the trouble to learn a few words or phrases of the local language. Don't worry about sounding silly. Most locals are patient and accommodating and appreciate you making the effort to communicate in their language.
  • Conserve energy: Be careful not to waste valuable resources. Use local resources sparingly. Switch off lights, air-conditioning and fans when you leave the hotel room and don't waste water. Remove superfluous packaging. Many countries have far less efficient waste disposal systems than ours. Remove packaging from newly acquired items before leaving home.
  • Don't litter: No matter how untidy or dirty the country you're travelling in may look to you, avoid littering, as there is no need to add to the environment's stress. Many of the countries we visit have a tough challenge dealing with rubbish and waste. Please consider taking home as much plastic waste as you can (e.g. water bottles).
  • Choose environmentally friendly products: By using environmentally friendly (bio degradable) sun creams, shampoos and detergents you can help reduce pollution.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: As you are a guest in these countries, you should also comply with the local customs. If you are friendly and well mannered, the locals will reciprocate and it will only enhance your experience. It's important to follow dress and behaviour guidelines especially when visiting religious or sacred sites (your tour leader will advise you how best to do this).
  • If a client commits an illegal act the client may be excluded from the tour and Encounters Travel shall cease to have responsibility to/for them. No refund will be given for any unused services.

All porters are employed and equipped following guidelines set by the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG).


You can stay in touch with us online by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We post updates on relevant travel news in our destination countries, special offers and discounts and other interesting travel related news and information.
www.facebook.com/encounterstravel
www.twitter.com/encounterstravl (yes, without the 'e')


Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads Travel Insurance offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

If your tour includes car hire, or if you plan to arrange a hot air balloon flight locally or do some scuba diving during your tour, you should check the small print in your policy to make sure these are covered (these are covered in our policy). Please also check the maximum altitude that you will be reaching and that full cover including emergency evacuation is provided up to this altitude.

If you are taking expensive camera gear or other electronic equipment with you then please check the coverage and the fine print of your policy to ensure that you have sufficient cover.

IMPORTANT:  We must have your travel insurance details (policy number and type of insurance) before you depart or you may not be allowed to join the tour.  If you haven't told us already, please let us know the details when you can. You should take a paper copy of your insurance policy with you as you may be asked to show this at the start of the tour.

Covid-19
Before purchasing any travel insurance, please check the coverage provided for situations related to Covid-19, and for the rules about government travel advice. Your normal policy may not be suitable.


It is important when considering and preparing to travel anywhere in the world that you have a good understanding of the country you are visiting, its laws and customs, and the possible risks and situations that may occur. This includes specific risks related to your itinerary (eg. does it involve water & can you swim, are you fit enough for the activities included), as well as more general risks such as terrorism and natural disasters.

General details and links to more information about health risks, visa requirements, money, and travel insurance are given in these tour notes. We recommend that you re-read all these before your departure as well as the small print of your travel insurance policy so you know exactly what is covered and what is not.

You should take copies of your important travel documents with you and ideally also store them online securely as a backup. Make sure that you have given us your emergency contact details and told that person where and when you are travelling. Ensure you take enough money with you and that you have access to emergency funds.

Finally, you should read through and stay updated with the current official government travel advice for your destination. We are registered partners with the UK Foreign Office's 'Travel Aware' campaign which provides further useful and invaluable information.

'Travel Aware' campaign


Traveling responsibly means minimizing plastic waste, but staying hydrated on the go is essential. At Encounters Travel we are committed to reducing single-use plastics, which is why we've partnered with Water-to-Go. Their portable filtration system removes over 99.9% of contaminants from any non-saltwater source, turning even questionable water sources into safe drinking water.

Given that tap water is un-safe to drink in many of the countries in which we operate, we recommend purchasing a Water-to-Go bottle prior to departure. This will help you avoid the use of single use plastic bottles and keep you hydrated on the go.

Save big! Get a huge 25% off your Water-to-Go bottle and other Water-to-Go products (such as filters, lids, and carriers). Use code ENCOUNTERS25 at checkout (valid in the UK, USA and Canada).

How Water-to-Go Technology works:

  • Their reusable, BPA free water bottles contain their own unique 3-in-1 filtration technology effectively providing clean safe drinking water from any non-salt water source around the world.
  • Three different (1 traditional and 2 nano) technologies are combined in one filter cartridge to remove up to 99.9999% of microbiological contaminants in water.

The three technologies used in a Water-to-Go filter are:

  • Mechanical filtration – A tiny pore size, so small contaminants can’t fit through.
  • Electrical – A positive charge reduces the pore size even further and attracts contaminants like a magnet, trapping them inside the filter.
  • Activated Carbon – Unlike most carbon based filters, instead of using adhesives to glue the carbon particles together, (which vastly reduces the carbon’s efficiency) it is contained within the membrane, helping to reduce contaminants whilst eliminating bad tastes and odours. Try filtering water from your tap at home and taste the difference!

Water-to-Go filter bottles deliver safe, healthy water worldwide

  • Water-to-Go filters remove bacteria, viruses, waterborne disease, protozoa, heavy metals such as lead as well as harmful chemicals.
  • Their filters remove Chlorine and Fluoride from tap water.
  • The filter will eliminate harmful contaminants from the water but allow beneficial minerals such as sodium and magnesium to pass through leaving you with the healthiest water possible.
  • Water-to-Go filters have been independently tested against internationally recognised standards by industry specialists including The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (UK), BCS Laboratories (USA), Bangalore Test House (India) and IMI (China).

Use Water-to-Go products and you’ll be healthier, wealthier and helping to make the world a better place!

  • Depending on filter size, each Water-to-Go filter is able to replace 260 or 400 single-use plastic water bottles!
  • They ensure you have access to safe water anywhere in the world without ever having to buy environmentally damaging bottled water.
  • Their water bottles deliver safe, clean drinking water at just 5p per litre.
  • The filter membrane is biodegradable and the shrouds are recyclable.
  • The water bottles are used and approved by everyone from backpackers to commuters, gym users to expecting mums. Perfect for everyday, outdoor and travel.


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.

Please note that whilst the Jordan Pass is recommended for the vast majority of our Jordan Tours where entrance fees are not included, this is not recommended for our Petra & the Bedouin Trail tour as entrance fees to Petra and Wadi Rum are already included in the cost of this tour. 

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.


The local currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JD). You do not need to arrange to bring any Jordanian Dinar with you to Jordan as exchange facilities are available in the international airports and in most hotels, banks and bureau de changes in major towns. You should try to obtain and keep hold of small denomination notes or coins on you during the tour as these are useful for toilets, tips and small purchases. ATMs are readily available in major towns and many local shops will accept VISA/Mastercard or Amex, but may charge fees of up to 10% - check before you pay. Travellers cheques are not recommended as they can not be changed in many places now, and can incur high fees.

While in Jordan you will need sufficient funds to cover meals not included in the itinerary, drinks, snacks, souvenirs and personal expenses such as laundry. These should generally all be paid for in Jordanian Dinar, though tips for guides and drivers may be paid in hard currency (GBP, USD, EUR).

It is difficult to recommend a level of personal spending money which will suit everyone as this can differ greatly, but as a guideline, we would suggest allowing USD 15-25 per person per day as a minimum. Allow more if you plan on doing lots of shopping, or buying many alcoholic drinks.


Sockets are two round pronged and 220 volts (Type C). Universal adaptors are available in most airport shops if you don't have one already. Standard European adapters will work fine, though sometimes they may feel a little loose in the sockets. All hotel rooms have electrical sockets where you can re-charge cameras, phones etc. Hair dryers are normally available on request from the hotel reception if not in your room already.
If you have US appliances (110 volts) you will need a voltage converter as well as a plug adapter.


The time in Egypt, Jordan, Israel and Lebanon is GMT plus 2 hours and in UAE GMT plus 3 hours. Daylight saving adjustments have historically been applied in some years but not others. At present it appears that there will be no daylight saving changes in Egypt 2016 and beyond, though this may change at short notice (with a resulting impact on flight times and schedules). In Jordan and Israel, daylight saving of one hour is generally applied between the end of March and the end of October, making it GMT plus 3 hours. Exact dates vary from year to year and sometimes the changes may be scrapped altogether.


You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination.  You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for the countries in this region are:

Egypt: Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A
Jordan: Tetanus, Hepatitis A
Israel: Hepatitis A, Poliomyelitis
Lebanon: Dipheria, Hepatitis A

Malaria is not generally present unless it has been contracted abroad; you do not need to take malaria prophylactics.

More information is available here: Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Lebanon

Note: We are aware of some places in Egypt using 'black henna' instead of pure brown henna. Black henna contains a chemical dye PPD (paraphenylenediamine) which can result in severe allergic reactions and resultant scarring. To be safe we recommend avoiding any henna tattoos while in Egypt unless you are certain they are using pure brown henna.


The local currency in the United Arab Emirates is the Dirham (AED). You do not need to arrange to bring any local currency with you to Dubai as exchange facilities are available in the international airports and in most hotels, banks and bureau de changes in major towns. You should try to obtain and keep hold of small denomination notes or coins on you during the tour as these are useful for toilets, tips and small purchases. ATMs are readily available in Dubai and many local shops will accept VISA/Mastercard or Amex, but may charge fees of up to 10% - check before you pay. Travellers cheques are not recommended as they can not be changed in many places now, and can incur high fees.

While in Dubai you will need sufficient funds to cover meals not included in the itinerary, drinks, snacks, souvenirs and personal expenses such as laundry. These should generally all be paid for in local currency, though tips for guides and drivers may be paid in hard currency (GBP, USD, EUR).

It is difficult to recommend a level of personal spending money which will suit everyone as this can differ greatly, but as a guideline, we would suggest allowing USD 15-30 per person per day as a minimum. Allow more if you plan on doing lots of shopping, or buying many alcoholic drinks.


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.

UK, EU, US, Canadian, Austrlian and New Zealand citizens can normally obtain a free tourist visa upon arrival into the United Arab Emirates, valid for a stay of up to 30 days. However, we recommend that you contact your closest UAE consulate or embassy and check your own government's travel advice for current information for your nationality. 

Previous travel to Israel
UAE immigration authorities have advised that British nationals with valid or expired Israeli visas or stamps in their passports should not face any difficulties entering the UAE as long as they don’t intend to work.

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