Israel & Jordan Walking & Hiking Tour
Lawrence of Arabia's Route from Amman to Jerusalem
Couples, Friends & Solos
8 days 7 nights
Activity Level: 1-3
Premiere & Casual Hotels
From: $7,599 - $9,199 pp dbl occ
($1,550 - $2,300 for sgl occ)
This ancient land is a study in contrasts—sand and stone, desert and sea, canyon and oasis. Trace the footpath of the Bedouins across the red sands of Wadi Rum and the towering ruins of Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Visit the historic site of Masada, a rugged natural fortress in the Judaean Desert and a majestic symbol of ancient Israel. Stroll the streets of Jerusalem and witness firsthand a vibrant cross section of world cultures.
Jordan & Israel
Start Amman / End Jerusalem
Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Highlights
- Trace the steps of Lawrence of Arabia as you delve into the rich history of this magical region
- Discover the World Heritage site of Petra, where dramatic temples and tombs are carved into crimson rock walls
- Hike in Israel and Jordan amid ancient and stunning landscapes once ruled by prophets, kings and crusaders
- Taste a captivating mix of global and local flavors including highlights of modern Middle Eastern cuisine
Itinerary
8 Days Premiere & Casual Hotels*
Discover the extraordinary mosaics of ancient Madaba | Enjoy an enlightening olive oil tasting | Journey beyond the borders of Wadi Musa and into a vast expanse of desert | Enter the World Heritage site of Petra on hiking trails less traveled | Experience typical Jordanian cuisine in a cooking class and dine on local culinary specialties.
Located at the entrance to the historic site of Petra, this full-service resort offers unparalleled access to the area and a range of dining options, including a lovely roof garden. (pool)
Marvel at the stunning expanse of Wadi Rum desert vistas on foot and by Jeep | Immerse yourself in the culture of nomadic tribes | Gaze at the desert’s starry sky from your Martian Dome tent at Sun City Camp | Embrace the quiet desert wilderness like a Bedouin—on the back of a camel | Share a traditional Bedouin-style earthen-oven meal.
Set on a desertscape straight out of a sci-fi movie set, this casual hotel offers an unforgettable "glamping" experience in spacious tents with all amenities.
Gain insight into daily life at an ecologically-focused kibbutz | Hike into the storied sandstone mountains that loom above the Red Sea | Explore the desert outpost of Mitzpe Ramon, an iconic crater that offers numerous hiking options | Relax at our hotel's infinity pool.
This luxurious resort is nestled into a dramatic cliff overlooking the enchanting Negev Desert. (pool, spa)
View the Masada historic site from a perspective not many people get to experience | Journey by foot into the Judean Hills through the Ella Valley's epic landscape, believed to be the location of the story of David and Goliath | Taste wine from vineyards that date back to biblical times | Take a guided walk to the Western wall on Shabbat (the Sabbath) and learn about both ancient and contemporary Jerusalem | Share a Shabbat dinner prepared by a local family in their home | Explore Jerusalem and the Old City's Jewish, Christian and Muslim sites, including an unforgettable visit to the Temple Mount | Savor traditional dishes like hummus and falafel.
Built atop ancient Ottoman ruins, this family-owned boutique hotel—and member of Leading Hotels of the World—embodies both modern Jerusalem and its historic past. (pool, spa)
Dates & Prices
The earlier you book, the more choice you'll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won't be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. View cancellation policy.
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
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Activity Level:
1-3
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. Several routes and a range of levels are offered each day so you can choose how much or how little activity you want to do. Learn more about how we determine activity levels.
Route notes
The terrain on this trip is primarily sandy or rocky trails with some steeper climbs. Please use extra caution when negotiating loose gravel. Our routes traverse a diverse mix of environments, from rolling pastures to barren deserts to deep canyons. On some days we hike in areas where there are creeks, oases and rock pools. We'll also be walking through religious sites that may have unanticipated steps or loose gravel.
Daily Route Options
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. Several routes and a range of levels are offered each day so you can choose how much or how little activity you want to do. Learn more about how we determine activity levels.
Route notes
The terrain on this trip is primarily sandy or rocky trails with some steeper climbs. Please use extra caution when negotiating loose gravel. Our routes traverse a diverse mix of environments, from rolling pastures to barren deserts to deep canyons. On some days we hike in areas where there are creeks, oases and rock pools. We'll also be walking through religious sites that may have unanticipated steps or loose gravel.
What's Included
- All breakfasts, 7 dinners, 6 lunches
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
- Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
- On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
- Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
- Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
- Park and other entry fees
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
- Select coach transfers
- Baggage transfers and porterage
- All breakfasts, 7 dinners, 6 lunches
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
- Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
- On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
- Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
- Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
- Park and other entry fees
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
- Select coach transfers
- Baggage transfers and porterage
Straight talk
We want to make sure you're on the right trip and that you have the best experience possible. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
Border Crossings
On this trip we have the unique opportunity of traveling by land between Jordan and Israel. On all our trips we make every effort to cross international borders with as few obstacles and inconveniences as possible. Often we are able to create a seamless experience. But even with all the organization and effort of our Backroads Trip Leaders, border crossings can take time. We ask for your patience, knowing we will do everything in our power to make this experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Please note that due to international regulations, you will need to walk with your luggage for approximately 10 minutes to cross the border; we highly recommend you bring rolling luggage.
Shuttle Times
In order to bring you the full splendor of this region, including the best hikes and activities in both Jordan and Israel, we spend more time shuttling on this trip than on many other Backroads trips.
Traveling in the Arab World
Although Jordan is a developing international travel destination, it is not yet quite on par in terms of hospitality-industry standards when compared to other destinations where Backroads offers trips. Travelers in Jordan might also notice the Jordanians smoke cigarettes in most public places (including hotel rooms and common areas). We recommend that women dress modestly in Jordan and when visiting religious sites in Israel to avoid attracting unwanted attention. In addition, it is good practice to refrain from discussing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict while in Jordan, as this is an extremely sensitive issue that can stir up a lot of emotion and can quickly lead to very tense discussions.
Accommodations
Our accommodations on this trip are generally luxurious and offer top-notch amenities. We've included one night at Sun City Camp, which is a Casual Hotel. Situated in the middle of the Wadi Rum Desert, it offers access to incredible activities and phenomenal views. We hope you'll appreciate its stunning location and unique charm as much as we do. We also stay at Movenpick Resort Petra, a Casual Plus Hotel, which offers unparalleled proximity to Petra but is not as opulent as other luxury properties elsewhere in the world.
We want to make sure you're on the right trip and that you have the best experience possible. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
On this trip we have the unique opportunity of traveling by land between Jordan and Israel. On all our trips we make every effort to cross international borders with as few obstacles and inconveniences as possible. Often we are able to create a seamless experience. But even with all the organization and effort of our Backroads Trip Leaders, border crossings can take time. We ask for your patience, knowing we will do everything in our power to make this experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Please note that due to international regulations, you will need to walk with your luggage for approximately 10 minutes to cross the border; we highly recommend you bring rolling luggage.
In order to bring you the full splendor of this region, including the best hikes and activities in both Jordan and Israel, we spend more time shuttling on this trip than on many other Backroads trips.
Although Jordan is a developing international travel destination, it is not yet quite on par in terms of hospitality-industry standards when compared to other destinations where Backroads offers trips. Travelers in Jordan might also notice the Jordanians smoke cigarettes in most public places (including hotel rooms and common areas). We recommend that women dress modestly in Jordan and when visiting religious sites in Israel to avoid attracting unwanted attention. In addition, it is good practice to refrain from discussing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict while in Jordan, as this is an extremely sensitive issue that can stir up a lot of emotion and can quickly lead to very tense discussions.
Our accommodations on this trip are generally luxurious and offer top-notch amenities. We've included one night at Sun City Camp, which is a Casual Hotel. Situated in the middle of the Wadi Rum Desert, it offers access to incredible activities and phenomenal views. We hope you'll appreciate its stunning location and unique charm as much as we do. We also stay at Movenpick Resort Petra, a Casual Plus Hotel, which offers unparalleled proximity to Petra but is not as opulent as other luxury properties elsewhere in the world.
