Jordan: Petra and the Ancient Lands 2017 1
Itinerary landscape of mountains, spectacular deserts, canyons and verdant gorges and the lowest place on earth, the Dead Sea. The Jordanians are a friendly and welcoming people and there will be time to experience some of the local culture and try the delicious varied cuisine. Day 1: To Amman Arrival in Amman and transfer to our hotel. Accommodation: Amman Cham Palace Hotel (3 nights) Day 2: Jerash & Amman This morning we explore the Roman citadel above Amman. In the afternoon we visit the remarkably well preserved Roman city of Jerash. We enjoy a guided walking tour of the city, taking in Hadrian s Arch, the Temple of Zeus and walk down the 2,000-year-old colonnaded street of the Cardo Maximus to the forum. At its height, Jerash had a population of about 15,000. It now offers a remarkable insight into the great cities of the Roman Empire in the Middle East. Take a journey to a country rich in history, a meeting point for great cultures and events where the remains of the Roman Empire can be seen alongside many of the great sites of Biblical times, as well as relics from the Crusades and churches of the Middle Ages. Not forgetting the overwhelming rose red city of Petra, one of the world s most amazing sights, which will be explored in detail. All this is combined with a stunning natural This is an easy afternoon s walking around the ancient city, on mostly 2
level paths, taking approximately two hours. Time permitting, we ll stop in Amman on our return for a walk around the downtown area. Day 3: Panorama Trail An early morning transfer takes us two hours north, to Ajloun, where we visit the RSCN centre for an explanation of soap making before beginning our hike along the Panorama trail at Marjam. The trail is approximately 7km in total, and meanders through small forests of oak, fig and pomegranate trees to the village of Rasoun where we lunch at one of the village houses, where a local family hosts us. The trail can be rough in places. We continue our walk, following the Wadi Orjan, passing by local farms. These visits give an insight into local life, and support conservation projects in the area. There is a steep ascent that takes us to the village of Orjan. Day 4: Wadi Ibn Hammad & Dana Nature Reserve This morning we begin our journey south through Jordan. Our first stop is at the Wadi Ibn Hammad. Here a picturesque siq (gorge) follows the course of a small river. Lush vegetation, with palm trees, ferns and different shades of lichen, covers the steep sides of the gorge and it is a very peaceful oasis away from the dry surrounding regions. The trail leads to a refreshing waterfall. Prepare for your feet to get wet, as the walk follows the course of a shallow river bed most of the way. This is a there and back trail, of approximately three hours and is 4 miles/6km in total. While this is a moderate walk, there are some rocky sections. It also includes a short stretch descending a ladder (also up the ladder on the return walk). Those not wanting to take the trail the whole way can return with the HF Holidays leader or local guide. We then continue to the Dana Nature Reserve. Our accommodation tonight is the Feynan Eco-Lodge, solar powered and exclusively lit by candles. Accommodation: Feynan Eco-Lodge (1 night) Day 5: Wadi Ghweir & To Petra Our 3 hour two-way hike into this wonderful canyon follows the gravel riverbed, past pink acacias and other plant life made possible by the seasonal tiny river flows of this spectacular red sandstone gorge. Our path eventually brings us to a little oasis of palm trees, hanging gardens and water springs (expect wet feet). We then retrace our way back to the 3
lodge for lunch (4.3 miles / 7km, 164ft / 50m of ascent). In the afternoon, we will go to visit a local Bedouin family in their goat-hair tents. We will get the chance to come close to the locals and learn about their rich culture by observing a variety of their daily activities, such as weaving goat-hair tents, making kohl, making Arabic coffee or baking earthy Arbood bread. Then we head to Petra where we will have dinner and spend the night. We begin with a walk down the siq, a narrow pathway, surrounded by towering rock walls. We will be able to see traces of the old Nabatean water channels and a carving of a camel and trader. The siq twists this way and that until at one curve the huge, dramatic facade of the Treasury is revealed. Accommodation: Petra Palace hotel (3 nights) (Meals included: breakfast, lunch, Day 6: Petra Today we have a full day s exploration of the ancient rose-red city of Petra. The city covers a huge area and we take a few days to explore its grand edifices and narrow paths with surprises at every turn. The area was settled by the Nabataean people in the 6th century BC who flourished by controlling the trade caravans in the region, carrying goods and spices from the Middle East to Africa. The glory days of Petra were between 8BC and 40AD when the city housed over 20,000 people and most of the ceremonial temples and palaces were created following Greek and Roman designs. With competition from Rome and changes in the trade route, the Nabataeans lost their power and by the 7th century the city declined into obscurity. Between the 12th and the early 19th centuries, Petra was a little-known lost city, known only to local Bedouin. The Treasury is an astounding temple carved out of the rock face with intricate details that have been preserved from the elements due to its sheltered position. This is the temple that features in many photos of Petra. From the Treasury the path leads down the atmospheric Street of Facades, passing Nabataean houses and tombs, and continues towards the impressive Theatre. We spend the day exploring the living areas of the city, taking in the sights of the colonnaded 4
street and the Royal Tombs and much more. The city stretches out around us and there are many hidden areas to explore. Today is spent on level paths with some undulations, and with the chance to scramble up to some more out of the way temples. We take lunch within the city of Petra and will also have some free time to stroll around areas we have already visited or to sit among the ancient ruins and take in the full scale of the site. We return to the hotel later this afternoon. The views of desert and canyons are stunning. The trail, which includes some sections which are rocky underfoot, takes approximately four hours. Upon reaching the main site, there is ample time to visit the places we have not seen. Approx distance 5km on the main tour, there may be additional distance if you choose to join your HF leader on a walk back to the hotel. Day 7: Petra Trails & Little Petra After breakfast we take a short drive to Beida, where we set off on foot from Little Petra. It is believed that this was an agricultural and trading suburb of the main city and this narrow area is crammed with more sights, including tombs, temples and cisterns. We take a back trail, off the beaten track and through some spectacular scenery, to a quiet entrance to the city of Petra. Though extra effort is required, we recommend taking the steps up to the Monastery for one of the most amazing sights in all of Petra. It takes 45 minutes to walk up rock-cut steps, but the scenery and unforgettable sight of the Monastery is worth it. There are many places around the city that are easily accessible and are all captivating in their own right. Many hours can be spent exploring at a relaxed pace, before a final walk takes us back through the siq, to the visitor centre and the hotel. Total walking distance today is 7 miles/12km, broken into sections, plus an additional 2.5 miles/4km if you visit the Monastery, with 1,080ft/330m ascent. Day 8: Petra & To Wadi Rum 5
After breakfast, we take the Madras Trail to the Royal Tombs and Wadi Farasa, to reach the Petra basin. Throughout the hike, and from the place of Higher Sacrifice we enjoy awe-inspiring views across the whole region of Petra. This is a moderate trail taking four to five hours that includes ascending and descending numerous steps cut into the rocks and over boulders (distance 3.7 miles/6km, 1,150ft/350m ascent). This afternoon we drive into the spectacular southern desert, the legendary landscapes of Lawrence of Arabia. We arrive into the Wadi Rum desert for a complete Bedouin experience. We re introduced to our Bedouin host who takes us to the camp for a feast of zarb - a traditional Bedouin dish of meat and vegetables cooked under the desert sand. Accommodation: Bedouin camp (2 nights) Day 9: Wadi Rum A jeep ride takes us further into this wonderful desert landscape, where myriad short walks introduce us to its captivating scenery. Easy scrambling takes us to the top of the small rock arch of Jebel Um Fruth, for excellent photos, before a visit to the entrance of Abu Khashaba canyon and its stunning patterns in its sandstone cliffs. On foot again for a short walk around Jebel Burda, to see its famous rock bridge, before a stroll takes us to a shaded spot where we enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch. After lunch we go for a jeep tour passing by Lawrence s House, and the ancient rock inscriptions. We stop at the big sand dune for an opportunity to take off your shoes, climb up and run down its soft sand. We return to our camp for another delicious Bedouin feast and a majestic sunset. Day 10: To Madaba & the Dead Sea After an early breakfast we will journey north. We stop in Madaba and visit the Byzantine St George s church which contains remnants of a fascinating mosaic of the known world in 560AD, which includes all the biblical sites of the Middle East. We then continue to the shores of the Dead Sea. Hopefully you ll have time this afternoon to float in the salty waters, or to try a spa treatment. The Dead Sea s minerals have remarkable 6
health properties and are said to be very good for the skin. Accommodation: Dead Sea Spa Hotel (1 night) Day 11: Departure This morning we drive to Amman for our return flight. (Meals included: breakfast) 7
Accommodation We ll stay in a selection of 3 and 4-star hotels with excellent facilities and handy locations from which to see the sights of Jordan. Please note that Jordan has experienced a real downturn in tourism over the past few years, and many hotels have had to close, and others are looking a bit tired because they currently don t have the money to reinvest. Jordanian hospitality. This hotel is fully air conditioned with 180 rooms. Bedrooms are spacious with en-suite facilities, hairdryer, safety deposit box, satellite TV. There are two outdoor swimming pools, and a Turkish bath/jacuzzi area. Restaurant and bar are also on site. www.petrapalace.com In Wadi Rum we stay in a traditional style Bedouin camp. In Amman we stay at the 4-star Amman Cham Palace Hotel located, like most of the city s hotels, in the business district. At Dana Nature Reserve we stay in the inspirational Feynan Ecolodge. www.ecohotels.me The camp is designed to be as comfortable as possible for travellers without taking away from the unique experience of staying out in the wilderness for a night or two, and providing an authentic Bedouin experience. Delicious food is provided including the traditional Bedouin zarb meat and vegetables cooked under the desert sand. This is an environmentally sustainable lodge, built to support the local Bedoiun community. The lodge blends into this stunning landscape and the roof terrace provides spectacular views over the wadi. The rooms are all en-suite, and candlelit at night. Your stay here will be one of many highlights of your itinerary. The Dead Sea Spa is our base for the final night of the tour located on the shores of the Dead Sea. The hotel has modern well-equipped rooms, a large spa featuring the restorative properties of the Dead Sea mud and several swimming pools for an ideal place to relax. www.dssh.jo At Petra, accommodation is at the 3- star Petra Palace hotel, a family run hotel which offers wonderful 8
Before your holiday We hope you find this information comprehensive if not please visit our website for more details or contact us. All details correct at time of writing (July 2016). Passport and visa requirements are subject to change; please check with your consulate before you travel. We would advise that you check your government s travel advisory before travelling. For UK travellers, please check www.fco.gov.uk In all instances during your holiday, your first point of contact should be your HF Holidays leader or local leader. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays emergency contact details are as follows: Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm Tel +44 (0)345 470 7558 or +44(0)20 8732 1250 ( from overseas) Fri - Mon 7pm - 9am Tel +44 (0)7918 737777 Airport parking and accommodation If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call 0871 360 2750 and quote HX031 or book online at www.holidayextras.co.uk/hfholidays Kit List Please try to keep luggage to a minimum as you will need to carry it yourself at airports and between your transport and your hotel. Walking boots (worn in) with good ankle support and spare bootlaces Walking socks Walking sandals or an old pair of trainers that you don t mind getting wet Lightweight fleece Lightweight waterproof trousers and jacket Shorts Long trousers and long-sleeved light coloured shirts with collars to protect from the sun your clothing should ideally be pretreated with insect repellent and in-built sun protection (available from specialist clothing stores such as Rohan, Cotswold Outdoor) Warm fleece, hat and gloves Towel Head torch Sun hat Scarf/buff Comfortable clothes and shoes for evenings and sightseeing Sun protection sunglasses, high factor sunscreen and lip protection Water bottle at least 2 litre capacity Lightweight survival bag Small/medium rucksack (30 litre) a bin liner will keep contents dry if it rains Soap and hand sanitizer gel Insect repellent Universal adaptor plug 9
Universal sink plug Personal first aid kit including: personal medication, tissues, plasters, blister kit, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, Imodium, rehydration sachets Passport (and copies); booking confirmation; insurance cover note; HF Holidays registration form Optional: sleeping bag liner, trekking poles, camera, umbrella, binoculars. Please ensure you have access to emergency funds should you need them; carrying a credit card is probably the most convenient method. Please note that your HF Holidays leader reserves the right to refuse to take any guest on a walk should they consider that a lack of suitable clothing/footwear may affect safety. Baggage allowance 1 piece checked-in luggage (max 23kg). Please check details of your airline s baggage allowance, as shown on your e-ticket. Remember to also check any connecting flights you may have booked. Passports & visas Passports must be valid for six months. From June 2015 the Jordanian government advised that there is no visa charge for people travelling to Jordan with a tour operator - minimum 2 nights, maximum 30 nights. Please let us have a copy of the relevant pages in your passport at least 6 weeks before travel so that we can arrange this on your behalf. Travel insurance If arranging your own travel insurance, please ensure it is adequate for your specific itinerary. Health advice This is subject to change and we would highly recommend that you consult your doctor before travelling. For further information on country specific advice, visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.traveldoctor.co.uk Diphtheria, Hepatitis A and Tetanus vaccinations are recommended. Typhoid and Rabies are sometimes recommended too. Please note: the use or possession of some common prescription or overthe-counter medicines is banned in some countries. If you will be carrying medication, please check with the country s embassy/ consulate prior to travel. As an extra precaution: Keep your medication in its original packet Take a copy of your prescription too If possible, ask your chemist to write the name of your medication in the language of the country that you re visiting Dietary requirements Please contact us as far in advance as possible if you have any specific dietary requirements. We will do our best to accommodate you. If you require a specific meal on the flight, please let us know as soon as possible, 10
and no later than 96 hours before travel. Travel tips for a comfortable flight We ve put together a few simple tips to help make your flight as comfortable as possible, ensuring you begin your holiday in tip-top shape. Move about. Change position and avoid crossing your legs. Immobility poses the greatest risk in the development of clotting disorders. Get out of your seat and walk around as regularly as possible to improve circulation No pills. Unless advised by your doctor, do not take sleeping tablets on the flight; this will reduce your mobility and make you feel sluggish Protect your ears. If you experience discomfort due to the cabin pressure changes, suck a sweet, chew, or hold your nostrils and gently blow through your nose; this should equalise the pressure. If you still experience problems, speak to a member of the cabin crew Drink plenty. Ask a member of the cabin crew if you are thirsty. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee or carbonated drinks as these will dehydrate you. Instead, try to drink plenty of fruit juices or water Eat light. Avoid heavy meals and foods air expands at altitude and heavy meals will result in that bloated feeling Moisturise. Your skin, especially your lips and nostrils, may feel dry so moisturising creams may help. If you wear contact lenses, always carry your glasses with you, as your eyes may feel dryer than usual Stay loose. Wear loose fitting, comfortable shoes and clothes Flight socks are recommended to help prevent DVT on longhaul flights Lost/damaged luggage If your bag or its contents are damaged or lost while in the airline s care, this should be reported to the baggage service agents at the airport. They will assess the damage and in some cases the airline may decide to settle your claim immediately. You will be given a reference to quote to your insurance company if settlement cannot be reached. In many cases baggage claims can only be accepted in writing. A baggage claim form must be obtained from the airport. HF Holidays with-flight guests For those travelling on our HF Holidays group flight, please proceed to the arrivals hall once you have passed through passport control, customs and baggage reclaim, when you arrive at your destination. Your leader or local leader will assemble the group in the arrivals hall. Look out for the HF Holidays sign. Independent travellers If you are arriving ahead of the group, and are meeting them at the first hotel, please leave a message at the hotel reception for the HF Holidays leader or local leader, detailing your room number, and a mobile telephone number if possible. The leader will contact you once the group arrives. If you are arriving after the group, a message will be left for 11
you at the hotel reception, welcoming you and giving details of the time and place to meet the group. If your flight arrives before the group flight and you would like to join the transfer to the first hotel, please contact our Abroad Administration team on (0)20 8732 1271. They will have a list of the relevant transfer costs. Safety on your holiday Once you have made your booking, you will receive a pre-holiday questionnaire where we ask for details of next of kin, and insurance details. We need to have this from you at least 4 weeks before travel. Please also inform us of any medical situation which may affect your enjoyment of the holiday Please listen to any safety instructions from the leader Keep group members in view, especially if weather or visibility is poor If you become separated from the group, please stay where you are, the leader will retrace their steps to find you Each leader carries a first aid kit but is not allowed to supply any medication including aspirin, paracetamol, antihistamines, and antiseptic cream. You may wish to bring these items with you In the unlikely event that your leader is incapacitated, please use any emergency kit in their rucksack and call emergency services on 911. Please then call our emergency number (see page 9) and let us know there is a problem. Tipping Tips have been included in your holiday price for key services such as local guides/ driver/restaurants. Any additional tips are at your own discretion. Climate Jordan generally experiences warm winters with cool evenings and hot summers. The best time to visit is spring and autumn with clear, dry, sunny days and warm, but not too hot, temperatures. It can be quite cool in the evenings in the central mountains and desert around Petra and Wadi Rum. Local currency & money matters Jordanian Dinar (JD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and larger restaurants. ATMs are found in most large towns. Traveller s cheques are not advised. Suggested reading and maps Lonely Planet Jordan 2006 Lori Henry Jordan: A Different Middle East 2011 Marguerite van Geldermalsen: Married to a Bedouin 2010 Maps can be obtained in advance from The Mapshop www.themapshop.co.uk Group size Maximum 16 pax plus HF leader and local guides Electricity 240V, round 2 pin plugs, round 3 pin plugs 12
Time difference GMT/UTC +3 hours 13
HF Holidays Ltd, Catalyst House, Centennial Court, Elstree, Borehamwood, WD6 3SY, UK 14