Jordan: History in the Desert
The Treasury, Petra
Personal View
Karen Power, who visited Jordan with World Discovery in February 2008
“...just e-mailing to say what a wonderful trip I've just had....everything went like clockwork from the moment I landed to getting back on the plane again....the driver and guide were superb, the hotels were excellent, so it went really well. Petra and Wadi Rum were spectacular and I could have done with another 3 days, one more in Petra, a night in the desert and an extra day in Aqaba! All in all a truly fab trip and I'll certainly be recommending you to others.”
Despite its relatively small area, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is one of the most diverse countries in the Middle East, encompassing the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, as well as the dramatic rugged mountains of the west, the lunar desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and the spectacular coral reefs of the Gulf of Aqaba.
Jordan has been at the crossroads of history since Biblical times, and the great ancient civilisations have left their imprint. Jerash is one of the finest of all Roman cities in the Middle East; the majestic hilltop fortress of Kerak bears witness to the architectural genius of the Crusaders; and, above all, the magical Nabatean city of Petra - hewn out of the solid 'rose-red' rock - is simply awe-inspiring; this unique stronghold has recently been voted one of the "New Seven Wonders of the World".
The modern capital of Amman is the perfect gateway to this charming country. From here everything is within a few hours by road - you can choose to bathe in the saline waters of the Dead Sea, trek in the mountains of Wadi Rum, explore the many and varied archaeological sites, or snorkel in the Red Sea. And it's so easy to get to...less than 5 hours by air from the U.K.
Sample Tours
The King's Highway - A Journey along a historic route to the fabulous 'rose red' city of Petra [more]
Jordan Nature and History - The highlights of Jordan with an emphasis on walking and wildlife [more]
Jordan Express - See Jordan's highlights in an action-packed 5 day itinerary [more]
Syria and Jordan: Palmyra to Petra - Linking together two of the great caravan cities of the ancient world [more]
Jordan and Jerusalem - A classic combination of the Kingdom of Jordan and historic Jerusalem [more]
Petra and the Red Sea - Combine Jordan's rich historical heritage with relaxation on the Gulf of Aqaba [more]