Petra Temple, Jordan
Hiking in a slot canyon on Backroads Israel and Jordan tour
Dome of the Rock, Old Jerusalem, Israel
Middle Eastern Cuisine
Camels at Petra Temple site
Sun City Camp, Wadi Rum, Jordan
Walking & Hiking
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Israel & Jordan Walking & Hiking Tour - For Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond

Lawrence of Arabia's Route from Amman to Jerusalem

One or more kids 20+ required (siblings 17+ ok)

Family — 20s & Beyond

8 days 7 nights

Activity Level: 1-3

Premiere Hotels

From: $7,599 - $8,799 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.

Israel and Jordan Walking and Hiking Tour
Israel and Jordan Walking and Hiking Tour

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

Accommodations may vary based on departure date.
8 Days Premiere Hotels*
Accommodations may vary based on departure.
Days 1-2
Description

Hike historic Mount Nebo, whose summit was believed to offer Moses a view of the Promised Land | 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.

Accommodations
Movenpick Resort, Petra, Jordan
Movenpick Resort Petra
Petra
| *Casual Plus Hotel

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)

Day 3
Description

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 | Share a traditional Bedouin-style earthen-oven meal.

Accommodations
Sun City Camp, Jordan
Sun City Camp
Wadi Rum
| *Casual Hotel

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.

Days 4-5
Description

Embrace the quiet desert wilderness like a Bedouinon the back of a camel | Gain insight into daily life at an ecologically-focused kibbutz | Fascinating fauna abound at an international birding center | Explore the desert outpost of Mitzpe Ramon, an iconic crater that offers numerous hiking options | Relax at the infinity pool at the Beresheet Hotel, considered one of the most beautiful hotels in the area, and renowned for its cuisine and incredible views of Mitzpe Ramon.

Accommodations
Beresheet Hotel, Israel
Beresheet Hotel
Mitzpe Ramon
| Premiere Hotel

Offering breathtaking desert views, this luxury hotel features a full spa, fine dining and a spectacular infinity swimming pool overlooking the Ramon crater. (pool, spa)

Days 6-8
Description

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.

Accommodations
Orient Jerusalem
Orient Jerusalem
Jerusalem
| Premiere Hotel

Opened in the German Colony of Jerusalem in 2017, this luxurious complex incorporates 19th century Templar buildings and features contemporary art throughout. (pool, spa)

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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Our Private Trips are best for groups of 6 or more. We suggest joining a scheduled trip.

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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

Day 1
Walking & Hiking
Level 1 | 2 miles | 300 ft. gain
Other
Mount Nebo & Monastery Guided Walking Tour (1 hour)
Day 2
Walking & Hiking
Hiking Options at Petra up to 10 miles (up to 1,800' elevation gain)
Day 3
Walking & Hiking
Level 1 | 3 miles | 400 ft. gain
Walking & Hiking
Wadi Rum Sunset Jeep Tour & Guided Walk (2 hours)
Day 4
Other
Sunrise Camel Ride (1.5 hours)
Eilat International Birding & Research Center Visit (1 hour)
Kibbutz Lotan Guided Walking Tour (2 hours)
Day 5
Walking & Hiking
Level 1 | 3 miles | 300 ft. gain
Level 1 | 3 miles | 700 ft. gain
Level 3 | 6 miles | 1000 ft. gain
Other
Ramon Crater Jeep Tour (2 hours)
Day 6
Walking & Hiking
Masada Backdoor Hike (2.5 hours)
Other
Western Wall & Old City Guided Walking Tour (2 miles; minimal elevation gain)
Day 7
Walking & Hiking
Level 2 | 6 miles | 700 ft. gain
Day 8
Other
Jerusalem Old City Guided Walking Tour (3 miles; minimal elevation gain)

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

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.

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