2out of7 - Leisurely / Moderate You are reasonably fit, enjoy the outdoors and are looking for some exercise. Some previous experience is preferable for activity based trips.
Embark on a historic adventure across the deeply intriguing Middle East
Revamped in 2023 with changes to accommodation and improved cultural activities, this Middle East adventure will guide you through lands of ancient history and religious intrigue. The highlights are plentiful: summit Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have looked down over the Promised Land; explore rose-red Petra, a New Wonder of the World; stargaze in Wadi Rum; and visit the cave where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. We float in that same sea, and explore holy sites in Jerusalem and Bethlehem, ending the trip in the ever-evolving seaside city of Tel Aviv.
Highlights
Explore Jerusalem and its incredible history
Discover Petra, a New Wonder of the World
Stay overnight at our private camp in Wadi Rum
Step back in time in Biblical Bethlehem
Enjoy vibrant Tel Aviv
Key Information
Two nights in four/five-star hotels, five nights in three-star hotels, two nights in comfortable hotels, one night in a private desert camp
Travel by air-conditioned bus and 4×4
Group normally 5 to 16 plus leader. Minimum age: 16
Countries visited: Israel and Palestine, Jordan
What's Included
All breakfasts, two dinners
All accommodation (see accommodation section)
All transport and listed activities
Tour leader throughout
Arrival and departure transfers
What's Not Included
Travel insurance
Single accommodation (available on request)
Visas or vaccinations
People, Places & Planet
We work hard to create trips that improve life for the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Find out more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here, and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
In Jordan, we are very proud to work with a local partner who received the Travelife Partner award in July 2021. Travelife is a certification system dedicated to achieving sustainable practices in the global tourism industry. To receive the award, our Jordanian partner had to comply with more than 100 criteria related to corporate social responsibility. The Travelife standard is formally recognised for full compliance with the UN Sustainable Tourism Criteria.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
The use of a local guide means our customers will be well informed about local traditions, and cultural-social sensitivities.
This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels and restaurants, the emphasis on eating locally produced food, and support of other local enterprise.
The hotels we stay in are dedicated to hiring local staff, this helps to benefit the surrounding community by providing employment opportunities and income alternatives where they may be otherwise hard to come by.
This trip stays one night in the Wadi Rum desert at the Exodus private camp which is owned and managed by a local Bedouin family. This not only provides a source of income for the family but is a wonderful opportunity for our guests to interact with local people and share aspects of their traditions.
In Wadi Rum, we do a 4x4 safari which provides another source of income for local people.
This tour encourages guests to visit local cafes and restaurants and use markets to purchase traditional crafts.
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels.
By travelling in a small group, led by a local guide, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
We visit eight national heritage sites and the entrance fees included generate income used to upkeep and develop these important monuments and nature parks.
Our trips adhere to ABTA’s industry-leading animal welfare guidelines to ensure the best possible practices with regard to working animals and wildlife viewing. Our animal welfare policy can be found here.
In Petra, we do not recommend that travellers ride horses or mules as we are not convinced their treatment is in line with industry-leading animal welfare guidelines.
We work with our partners on the ground to proactively eliminate or reduce waste, for example eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles and instead providing refills for reusable bottles.
It is standard practice in Jordan to distribute leftover restaurant food to people in need.
Where possible on this trip paper bags are used as an alternative to single-use plastics.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
The Exodus private camp in Wadi Rum uses solar power.
This trip favours locally owned and run accommodation.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, we’d ask you to consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own reusable water bottle on this trip; filtered water will be provided where tap water is not drinkable.
Cultural respect:
Some Jordanians, especially women and the elderly, object to being photographed so please ask first.
Jordanians are very proud of their country and can be offended if you take pictures of anything ‘negative’ or suggestive of poverty. Photography in military zones and strategic areas like public buildings is prohibited.
Handshaking is only between members of the same sex.
It’s polite to use only your right hand when eating something without cutlery and when handing money and small objects to someone else.
It is common practice to remove one’s shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home and you should tuck them under if sitting on the floor. It is respectful for women to cover their heads with a scarf when entering a mosque. Please note many mosques are not open for tourist visits.
Generally, clothing should cover shoulders and be on or below the knee.
During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking during daylight hours. Even chewing gum is considered haram (forbidden). Although foreigners are not expected to follow these practices, it is respectful to be discrete and not eat, drink or smoke in general public.
Itinerary
Amman
Tel Aviv
London
London
Depart London for Amman; transfer to Amman hotel.
Our flight usually arrives in Amman, capital of Jordan, late tonight or very early in the morning tomorrow. We’ll catch our transfer to the hotel and head straight to bed.
Accommodation: Khan Khediwi Hotel (or similar)
Day
1
Start Amman
Welcome to Amman, the capital of Jordan, where our adventure begins. There are free transfers to the hotel from Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) for all customers today. Please note, transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Accommodation: Khan Khediwe Hotel (or similar)
Day
2
Amman city tour; on to Petra via Madaba and Mount Nebo
After an early breakfast, we head to the Citadel for breathtaking views of Amman and a short tour of the site. There is a small but very interesting museum to visit. From this viewpoint, we can see the remains of the Roman Theatre in the old city area. Leaving Amman, we join the King’s Highway, which takes us up and down huge wadis (valleys). We stop en route at Madaba, known as the city of the mosaics, and beautiful Mount Nebo where Moses saw the Promised Land just before he died. Further south, we reach the magnificent city of Petra; the premier historic site in Jordan and one of the New Wonders of the World.
Accommodation: Standard hotel – see accommodation section for more detail
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
3
Classic tour of Petra
This morning, we have an early start to make the most of our day exploring the Unesco World Heritage site of Petra. To enter, we must begin by walking down a narrow chasm, known as the Siq, surrounded by high cliffs on either side. Unveiled at the end is El Khazneh, the Treasury, the first breathtaking sight of a remarkable day. Continuing to the centre of the city, we pass the houses and tombs of the rich citizens and the remarkable scale of the site begins to unveil itself. An optional walk can then be done up 850 steps to El Deir, the Monastery, with its superb facade topped by a huge urn.
Petra was founded by the Nabateans, an Arab tribe that arrived here in the sixth century BCE. Building began in the third century BCE and continued through the Roman period, financed by taxes levied on the desert caravans. Two features are unique: firstly, it is a city made defensible by being built down a series of chasms, rather than on a hilltop. Secondly, it is built directly into the rock – beautiful red and yellow sandstone carved into the most impressive facades, which glow in the brilliant sunlight.
Accommodation: Standard hotel – see accommodation section for more detail
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
4
Visit Little Petra; to Wadi Rum; sunset jeep safari
Today we explore Little Petra, where well-preserved ruins hide in the mountains, before continuing to the spectacular Wadi Rum desert. This is where Lawrence of Arabia and Prince Faisal assembled the Arab tribes for the attack on Aqaba in the First World War, and also where sections of many famous films have been shot including Lawrence of Arabia (1962), Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019) and Rogue One (2016), and The Martian (2015). Its Mars-like landscape is truly breath-taking. We take a 4×4 safari through the area stopping at an outcrop of rocks for sunset before returning to our Exodus permanent tented camp for a star-filled night.
Accommodation: Permanent Bedouin camp
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day
5
Travel to the Dead Sea via Al Karak Castle
Today, we head back up north to the amazing Dead Sea for a float and relaxing evening. On the way, we stop at Al Karak (or Kerak) Castle for a guided tour of this imposing Crusader stronghold. This is a place of legend in the battles between the Crusaders and the Islamic armies of Saladin (Salah-ad-Din). A guided tour through the well-preserved ruins opens another aspect of the history of Jordan. We continue to the Dead Sea in time for a float in the incredible saline waters and to watch the sun set over Israel on the opposite bank.
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Dead Sea (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day
6
Visit Jericho and Dead Sea Scrolls caves; to Jerusalem
After breakfast, we take a short drive to the Allenby Bridge for the crossing to the West Bank. Your tour leader will explain in detail what happens at the border and how the crossing works (the border crossing can be busy). It is time to say farewell to the Jordanian leader and driver. The leader and driver for the Israel and Palestine portion of the trip have to wait for the whole group to clear Israeli security checks before they are allowed to drive to the exit hall, this can mean there is a wait at the exit hall before the leader and driver arrive.
Our first stop is Jericho in Palestine, claimed to be the oldest city in the world and rich in Biblical associations. We take a 1mi (2km) cable ride to the Greek Orthodox Monastery of Temptation with wonderful views of the Judaean Desert below. The monastery dates to the 12th century and is supposedly built around the grotto where the Devil appeared to tempt Jesus. From Jericho, we head to Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found by a Bedouin shepherd boy. Although the caves cannot be entered, there is a centre where a short film is shown and then a trail takes us through the cliffs where the various caves are located. After this visit, we continue to Jerusalem.
Accommodation: Holyland Hotel (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
7
Jerusalem sightseeing tour
Today we step back in history with a guided walking tour of the old city of Jerusalem. This includes the Temple Mount, Dome of the Rock, the Wailing Wall and the Church of the Sepulchre. The city is perfect to explore on foot as it is compact and there are plenty of sites to see and places to sit and rest. Jerusalem’s history stretches back more than 3,000 years and a guided tour of this labyrinthine city is one to remember.
Accommodation: Holyland Hotel (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
8
Free day to explore Jerusalem
Today is free for personal exploration of Jerusalem. Our leader will provide suggestions for more places to visit and information on how to get to each one. You may want to return to the old city and take a leisurely stroll through the streets or head to the Mount of Olives, the scene of Christ’s agony and the Garden of Gethsemane. Another option is the Yad Vashem (Holocaust museum and memorial).
Accommodation: Holyland Hotel (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
9
Travel into Palestine for Bethlehem sightseeing. Visit Herodion Castle
Today we have a local guide in Bethlehem who will reveal its Biblical traditions. As we enter Bethlehem, we visit the Walled Off Hotel, a boutique hotel designed by street artist Banksy. Bethlehem is perched on a hill at the edge of the Judaean Desert, it was the childhood home of David and the birthplace of Jesus. It has been a major site of pilgrimage since the construction of the Church of the Nativity in the fourth century CE and is located on the spot generally believed to be the likeliest site of the nativity. The tour will include Manger Square, St Catherine’s Church and the Milk Grotto.
We leave Bethlehem and drive to Herodion Castle. Herod the Great built this monumental fortress and palace on the highest hill in the Judean desert, 9mi (15km) south of Jerusalem. Herod was buried in the site that bore his name. The site was later a rebel stronghold and hiding place during the great revolts against the Romans. It is one of the most fascinating sites in the Holy Land. We return to Jerusalem after.
Accommodation: Holyland Hotel (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
10
To Old Jaffa and Tel Aviv
This morning, we leave Jerusalem and head west. Our first stop is The Lady of the Ark of the Covenant church. This hilltop church lays on the edge of Abu Gosh and has a fifth-century mosaic. From here, we continue to Old Jaffa on the Mediterranean. According to the Bible, a settlement was founded here by Noah’s son Japheth following the great flood. Remains date to 2,000 BCE, making Jaffa one of the oldest ports in the world.
Leaving Jaffa, we head to Tel Aviv, the modern face of the Jewish state. This Mediterranean resort has a long sandy beach and palm-filled avenues lined with elegant buildings in the Bauhaus style. We visit Sarona market, the largest enclosed culinary market in Israel. Tonight, there are plenty of great restaurants where the group can head for dinner to share the wonderful memories this trip has created.
Accommodation: Cinema Hotel (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
11
End Tel Aviv
The trip ends after breakfast in Tel Aviv. If you have onward flights, speak to your sales representative to arrange a private transfer to Ben Gurion Airport (extra cost) or you can arrange a taxi through the hotel reception. Please see the Joining Instructions for more details.
Meals included: Breakfast
Essential Info
Is this trip for you?
This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
Although this is a cultural trip, some days (such as those in Petra) can be long and tiring. There is a lot of ground to cover on this day; however, climbing up stairs to view the royal tombs and the hike up to the Monastery (850 steps) are optional. Your leader can provide further advice on how to get the most of your trip to this magnificent site. There is extensive walking during our days in Israel to see as many of the sites as possible during our guided tours. You also have a free day in Jerusalem to plan your own exploration of this incredible city.
Although the Wadi Rum campsite has plumbed toilets and showers, it is basic and hot water may be limited. Our private Exodus camp is, however, often mentioned as a highlight of the trip for many of our guests.
This trip crosses from Jordan into the West Bank at the Allenby Bridge and there is a change of leader at this point. This crossing is often busy (it is the only point through which West Bank Palestinians can travel abroad). The leader and driver for the Israel and Palestine portion of the trip have to wait for the whole group to clear Israeli security checks before they are allowed to drive to the exit hall, this can mean there is a wait at the exit hall before the leader and driver arrive.
Our leaders for the Israel and Palestine portion of this trip usually live in Jerusalem. This means they will not be with us in the evenings but can give advice on places for dinner.
From just before sunset on Friday until sunset on Saturday, Shabbat is observed by religious Jews. Restaurants and shops are closed in many Israeli cities; however, this is to a much lesser extent in Tel Aviv with many cafes and bars remaining open. Tel Aviv beaches are busiest on Saturdays. When our time in Israel coincides with Shabbat, we plan the itinerary to consider what is and is not open on this day.
In very rare instances where local conditions require, we may need to amend the order of the itinerary. However, we ensure that all the elements of the itinerary are still included and site visits are of the same duration.
Ramadan is expected to run from approximately 10 March-10 April 2024 and 28 February-29 March 2025. One of the most important periods in the Islamic calendar, it is a special time to visit a Muslim country. Each evening, the streets empty as people head home to break the fast, followed by an air of festivity upon their return. Our leaders and drivers choose to work at this time so we continue to run trips; however, their energy levels may be slightly lower than normal. Many tourist sites, restaurants and shops will have an amended schedule, but your tour leader will know how to adapt the itinerary to still experience all the inclusions on this trip and maximise your experience during this special time.
Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Khan Khediwe Hotel, Quraysh St. 100, Amman Phone: +962 6 465 1444 Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately Airport: Amman Airport (AMM)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 45 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Please note: Unless specified otherwise, the transfer will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Group flight from London, UK
Those on the group flight will be met before immigration by an airport co-ordinator who will collect your passport to get it stamped with the group visa. In high season, this process may be subject to delays. You will then be directed to the baggage collection point and the transfer to your overnight hotel.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer from Tel Aviv to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. Speak to your sales representative to arrange a private transfer at an additional cost or you can book a taxi at the hotel reception.
If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Amman Location end: Tel Aviv
Vaccinations and Health
Jordan
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and typhoid. Please confirm all requirements with your doctor or travel clinic.
Israel and Palestine
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, polio, hepatitis A, rabies and typhoid. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic. Please note, if you plan to visit Israel for four weeks or more, you may be required, upon leaving, to show proof of polio vaccination on an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) provided four weeks to a year before departure.
Passport
Jordan passport information
It is essential that we have your full passport details at least two weeks before the start of your trip (or at the time of booking for late bookings). This is required for the free visa (see below for eligibility details) and additionally, has to be supplied in advance to the tourism police, hotels and sights we’ll be visiting. If we are not provided with accurate passport information in advance, problems may be encountered during the trip and you may incur extra costs.
Visa
Jordan
Visas are required by most nationalities and can be obtained at the border or Amman airport.
We will arrange a free visa (usually 40 Jordanian dinars) for travellers booking a tour and any pre-tour arrangements through us, provided we receive full passport and flight details at least two weeks before arrival.
You will need to pay for the visa if we do not have these details two weeks before arrival or you are making your own pre-tour arrangements (ie extra nights before the tour that are not booked through Exodus).
Our airport representative will meet and assist you with obtaining the free visa on arrival in Jordan at Customs & Immigration. They will be carrying an Exodus sign.
Israel and Palestine
You don’t need a visa to enter Israel or Palestine as a tourist. On entry, visitors are granted leave to enter for a period of up to three months. Visitors will be given an entry card instead of an entry stamp in their passport. You should keep your entry card with your passport until you leave. This is evidence of your legal entry into the country and may be required, particularly at any crossing points into the Palestinian territories.
Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
All breakfasts are included and two dinners at the Wadi Rum camp and the Dead Sea resort in Jordan.
While staying in hotels, we usually eat in local restaurants and the leader can arrange group bookings if people want to dine together. Meze (Arabic) or salatim (Hebrew) meals are very popular as they provide a range of small shared dishes to try along with a main of barbecued chicken/meats or a vegetarian dish. These allow fast service with a variety of tasty food for the group. In Jordan, meals usually cost around 10-15 Jordanian dinars (US$14-US$21). Palestine and Israel can be more expensive so it is advisable to allow around 60-80 shekels per person (US$17-US$23).
If you are vegetarian, main meals are limited in choice; however, meze is almost always available in restaurants and is a good, filling choice. While camping in Wadi Rum, we enjoy a wonderful traditional meal called zarb, which is cooked underground. This consists of rice with a selection including chicken, lamb and vegetables. Vegetables will be cooked separate to the meat for vegetarians.
Alcohol is available in Jordan, but not widely. Many hotels do not sell alcohol but will often allow it to be brought in from elsewhere. It is best to plan ahead if you’ll want a drink, your tour leader can tell you what’s possible and may be able to arrange a stop at a supermarket or liquor store (depending on location). In Petra, the unique Cave Bar in Petra Guesthouse is open to the public. A less expensive option is the bar in the Petra Palace Hotel, which is also open to all.
Weather
Spring and autumn are very popular times of year to visit Jordan, Palestine and Israel. Summer is very hot, especially July and August, so we don’t have departures in these months. In spring and autumn, average temperatures can be around 25C-30C (77F-86F). In winter, it is generally crisp and warm in the day, approximately 10C-15C (50F-59F).
On average, Wadi Rum in summer is around 30C (86F) though it can get as high as 40C (104F). In winter, it is much cooler and can get as low as 10C (50F) during the day. In the evening, it is around freezing point. There are occasions when there is rain or even snow in the desert. If weather conditions require, we may need to modify the itinerary or the camp location for your comfort and safety. The Dead Sea air temperatures vary from around 14C (57F) in winter up to high 30s (around 100F) in summer. The water temperature, however, doesn’t drop below 20C (68F).
Rainfall does occur in all countries during winter so it is advisable to take an umbrella at these times. There are even occasions when it snows in Jordan during winter. As with many countries in the world, seasons can go on longer than usual so it is advisable to always check the weather of the country you are travelling to a week or two before your trip so you can pack appropriately.
Hotels and camps
In Jordan, we spend one night in a three-star hotel in Amman, two nights in a comfortable hotel in Petra and one night in a five-star hotel at the Dead Sea. In Wadi Rum, we stay at the Exodus permanent tented camp. This private camp is for the sole use of the Exodus group and offers an unforgettable experience.
Some hotels have more facilities than others; however, it is always good to keep in mind that the star rating in Jordan is quite different to what you may expect at home. Sometimes we use less centrally located hotels in the interests of comfort.
Hotels in Petra: Accommodation in Wadi Musa (the town adjacent to Petra archaeological site) is limited and demands on infrastructure are high; this can create problems with hot water and plumbing. In general, the hotels are of an older style and more basic in comparison to the rest of Jordan. Hotels we use include Petra Plaza, Petra Palace, Edom Hotel, Amra Palace, La Maison and Petra Icon Hotel among others. Some hotels are closer to the entrance to Petra than others, some have a pool; however, most do not. When not within walking distance of the entrance to Petra, a transfer to/from the entrance is provided (typically a 10-minute drive). Hotel pools are often open during the daytime only (when we’re likely to be exploring Petra), so there may not be free time during pool opening hours, some are only open in summer.
At the Wadi Rum camp, there are traditional-style tents equipped with basic beds, sheets and blankets. There are plumbed toilets and basins, and simple shower facilities with (limited) hot water.
During our stay in Israel, we spend four nights in a three-star hotel in Jerusalem and one night in a three-star hotel in the coastal city of Tel Aviv. Throughout the tour, we use hotels with private bathrooms and air conditioning.
Single supplements are available for this trip; however, they cannot be guaranteed at Wadi Rum. Please enquire at the time of booking for details and up-to-date prices.
Excellent trip. Very rewarding Petra and Wadi Rum not to be missed
Most Inspirational Moment
The camel ride
Thoughts on Group Leader
Both were very good but Sammi the Jordan guide was excellent
Advice for Potential Travellers
Check whether there are any festivals on in Jerusalem as this could impact on your trip. Add an extra night in Amman as the flight gets in very late
Jo Seraspi
Reviewed March 2023
Jordan, Palestine & Israel - March 2023
This was a brilliant and organised trip that allowed us to really discover and get a little taste of the three countries: Jordan, Israel & Palestine. The tour guide leaders (Amer in Jordan / Ibrahim in Palestine and Israel) we’ve had have been absolutely brilliant and are knowledgeable in their area of expertise. The tour is jam-packed and involves crossing the land border between Jordan and Israel. It’s definitely an experience and a tour I’ll never forget. But a massive kudos to a smooth organised tour with no hiccups along the way, and even if there were “potential hiccups” our tour leaders have been exceptional in sorting things out! I’ll cover more of this in the tour guide feedback. We’ve had a fantastic group and had a great time bonding with everyone. This is my first Exodus trip and I can’t wait for the next one!
Most Inspirational Moment
There are just so many to mention but key highlights for me in Jordan are: Seeing the Treasury for the first time, climbing 850 steps up and down again to see the Monastery, spending a night in Wadi Rum and seeing the amazing stars at night and finally swimming in the Dead Sea! Oh and amazing amazing lunch at Madaba that Amer organised for us all. All brilliant accompanied by Amer’s knowledgeable teachings and “story time” of the history of Jordan and its brilliant sites. In Palestine and Israel, the key highlights for me is the day in the holy land and understanding the 4 different quarters within Jerusalem. Following the different stations that Jesus went through. A trip to Bethlehem and seeing the Walled off hotel.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Amer who is our tour leader in Jordan is absolutely absolutely incredible. He went above and beyond I would expect from any tour guide. He is so knowledgeable and really is keen to share his knowledge and stories about the history of the sites we’re going to and I can see the passion he has for his country. I know I joke about “story time” or “lecture time” during the trip but Amer really got me to listen and engage in everything he has to say about everything in the trip and the sites we’ve visited. When he speaks, we listen and he has so many things to say about the places we went to and despite us asking a lot of questions he’s been so patient and so detailed in his answers. I learned so much about Jordan and your amazing country Amer thank you so much for showing us the great Jordan. Thank you for going the extra mile on getting us great Jordanian tea, zaatar and olive oil. Can’t wait to serve these for one of our evenings with friends. Thank you as well for sorting me out when I lost my passport barcode while crossing the Jordan - Israel border. I really thought that would be a major problem but you’ve sorted it. You’ve been an amazing tour leader, thank you Amer! Ibrahim is our Israel and Palestine tour leader and he is also incredibly brilliant and knowledge about both countries he’s showcasing to the group. He’s provided very non-bias responses and because of how deeply rooted the issues there is between both countries, Ibrahim has kept a level of factual input and professionalism in his tour and for this I appreciate him. Ibrahim has made us all feel safe and have gone above and beyond by letting us know he is always at hand and is always a text away. He is very knowledgeable of the areas we went to and great lunch and dinner recommendations as well. The Walled Off Hotel and the Banksy graffiti is one of key importance for me and my partner and Ibrahim made sure that we were able to see everything we needed to in the area and gave us enough time to enjoy everything about it. Even when we thought we’re going to be delayed due to a driver issue beyond our control, Ibrahim was able to sort out a new driver for us immediately and we were brought back to be on schedule again.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Check the weather before you go and because in Jordan you’re staying in the desert and in Israel and Palestine you’re going to the holy sites, please pack a lot of warm clothes but also clothes that aren’t tight fitting and clothes that modest. The weather changes from really cold in the morning to quite hot in the afternoon when we went in March. Bring a raincoat in case too! This trip is pretty full on and jam packed with activities, in Jordan there was a bit of time to sleep on the bus but in Palestine and Israel - everything is super close that in 30 mins or so, you are at your destination. The tour would start at reasonable times 8:30am/9am. You need to be prepared for a lot of walking when you get to Petra. So stay hydrated most of the day, there are a lot of toilets so key is to stay hydrated. Be patient when crossing the border between Jordan <> Israel the process does take a bit of time.
Suggestions
Also travelling out of Tel Aviv via plane, give yourself more than 3 hours when arriving at the airport. It can get quite chaotic and a lot of security checks. If you want a chance to grab a bite before your flight, I suggest getting in the airport more than 3 hours before to avoid rushing too much.
Orla Murphy
Reviewed March 2023
Jordan, Palestine & Israel - March 2023
What a wonderful trip! We had wanted to visit Jordan, Palestine and Israel, with their amazing historical and biblical sites, for a while and this trip did not disappoint. Our 2 leaders were knowledgeable, helpful and good fun, and navigated the extensive Itinerary seamlessly. They also spoke about the Palestinian / Israeli conflict in a factual, non bias way. I now have a much better understanding of the conflict. The group bonded very well and we spent hours laughing and having fun over the 10 days. If this part of the world interests you then book this trip immediately.
Most Inspirational Moment
There were so many moments: Seeing the Treasury for the first time. Reaching the Monastery after climbing 850 steps. Camping under the stars in Wadi Rum. Swimming in the Dead Sea. Doing the stations in Jerusalem and retracing Jesus’ last couple of days. Visiting The Walled Off Hotel and the graffiti wall beside it, and learning more about the conflict.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Amer (Jordan) and Ibrahim (Palestine & Israel) were both great leaders! Amer was so knowledgeable on every aspect of Jordanian history and great fun, and Ibrahim was nice and very helpful - always giving us advice on to where to eat and go in the evenings. When I said to Ibrahim that I wanted to get a nativity sat in Bethlehem, he didn’t just point out suitable shops but went above and beyond and took me to a place where they carve the figures from olives trees and I got a super hand crafted nativity set that I will keep and cherish forever- thanks Ibrahim!
Advice for Potential Travellers
This trip is full on with very little down time and some long days, which is understandable as there are so many wonderful sights included in the Itinerary, so you will need a certain level of fitness and stamina to be able to do everything.
Suggestions
Pack modest clothes that cover your arms and legs and, if going in Spring, pack plenty of layers, as it could be cold in the evenings but very hot mid day.
Nick S
Reviewed December 2022
Enjoyable holiday due to the spectacular/historic/biblical sites and great travelling companions and NOT Exodus
We enjoyed the holiday but that was because of the spectacular/historic/biblical sites and great travelling companions and NOT the efforts of Exodus.
Effectively all Exodus provided was transport between sites and generally poor hotels, (except the Dead Sea but particularly the grubby SeaNet in Tel Aviv where we endured 2 extra nights at the end of the tour), albeit the hotels were in good locations. The bus in Jordan was not fit for purpose, or Health & Safety compliant, as luggage didn’t fit in (some initially had to go by taxi) and was balanced above the heads of the back row and in the aisle when rearranged and ‘fitted’. Sitting over wheel arches in a full cramped bus is not comfortable on long journeys or good for posture.
Inexperienced, disorganised, uninformative and slow moving guide in Jordan and just a ‘day guide’ in Israel, who provided better information but with limited time on the Tower Mount spent too long talking, such that the guards started emptying the site before we fully enjoyed it. Fortunately we had the next full day to explore Jerusalem on our own.
Petra and Wadi Rum were spectacular but need to start Petra early, not later with the crowds. If relatively fit it is possible to walk to both the monastery and the high sacrifice but is a full day, which meant us missing out on the meal with a local family that had only been suggested that morning. Wadi Rum camp was basic but fun with good food, but it doesn’t give sunset or sunrise views. The guide suggested it was too far to walk to see sunset, though we saw other groups heading back on foot later, and that we could see sunrise by walking round the corner. We walked several corners the next morning but the cliffs were too high, so a walk out towards the centre could have provided both.
The Dead Sea is an unusual experience and the only good hotel on the tour but the Group had to push to get there early enough to enjoy any meaningful time.
The Israel part of the tour started badly as we were waiting over an hour standing at the border control before the bus/guide turned up and then had to wait further as he had 3 additional names on his tour list. We explained they weren’t part of the group and couldn’t have fitted on the Jordan bus but clearly he needed to check with the office.
Jerusalem and Bethlehem are clearly must sees, but we should not have gone back for another night to Jerusalem after Bethlehem but headed North to Nazareth and Sea of Galilee (we went on a day trip from Tel Aviv and worth the trip). The long journey to Haifa was pointless and hardly a ‘visit’ as was just a view of the port and the Bahai Gardens from over/through the railings and gave insufficient time in Jaffa/Tel Aviv.
In summary great places to visit but can’t recommend this Exodus tour with its current format, guides, transport and hotels, though Exodus failings likely helped the bonding of the group. It was nothing like the experience and support we expected having had a fantastic guide and great time with Exodus in Sri Lanka.
Most Inspirational Moment
First views of the Treasury in Petra and walking to and views from both the monastery and high sacrifice summit.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Inexperienced and poor in Jordan and although better (ie more informative) in Israel/Palestine he was just a day guide, who wasn’t there if issues arose out of working hours. Neither provided good recommendations for food options.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Potentially avoid this tour until Exodus address the shortcomings and feedback.
Refuse the small bus in Jordan that doesn’t fit all the luggage in safely or is comfortable for all on long journeys. Get yourselves organised and get early starts for key locations (particularly for Petra get an early night and skip the late night meal next to the hotel) and long travel days. Food and drink is readily available inside Petra at reasonable price and can be in the shade. Insist on seeing sunset and/or sunrise at Wadi Rum. Get to the Dead Sea in time to enjoy the resort. Get the guide to brief you before the Temple Mount and enjoy the time at the top. Reject the long trip to Haifa and get to Jaffa/Tel Aviv earlier.
Suggestions
Exodus need to ensure guides are trained to required Exodus standards, hotels described as ‘comfortable’ are at least clean, and make changes to the itinerary based on feedback and experiences. (eg head north from Bethlehem to include Nazareth and Sea of Galilee and don’t go on the long trip just to get ‘views’ at Haifa).
Reply from Exodus
We are grateful that Nick took the time to leave a review, and are glad that he enjoyed the varied sites of Jordan and Israel and the company of his group. However, we were very sorry to read that he did not have such a positive experience with his Exodus tour leaders and some of the hotels used; we are in contact with Nick about the points he has raised and are in close communication with our local team in this regard, too. We recognise that a number of points relating to the Jordan portion of the trip should have been handled better by the leader, and normally are. While Nick’s leader in Jordan no longer guides for Exodus, we are confident that we have an excellent team of experienced leaders in the country, who we would mention usually receive fantastic feedback. In Israel, most of our leaders live in Jerusalem so typically spend the evenings with their families. However, they can give recommendations for things to do in the evening and places for dinner, and additional guidance has been provided to the leaders as a result of recent feedback. Tour leaders are required to check that luggage is safely stored and on occasion luggage may be transported in a separate vehicle if there is not sufficient space in the main vehicle. The border crossing between Jordan and Israel can be very busy and unfortunately delays such as those experienced by Nick and the group can occur. For future trips we will be explaining the logistics of the border crossing more carefully. We do also regret that Nick was unhappy with the Sea Net Hotel in Tel Aviv, and while we would note that prior to the start of this trip members of our local team visited the property and found it to be clean, comfortable, and well-situated, we acknowledge that the hotel has not been able to maintain the standards we would expect, and we are therefore looking to replace the Sea Net for our 2023 departures. The day with the visit to Haifa is being addressed and new arrangements will be in place before our next departure of this trip. We hugely appreciate Nick’s feedback, as it has allowed us to look to make changes to this tour and ensure that it is as organised, informative, and enjoyable as our customers expect from Exodus trips, though we remain apologetic that this was not his experience.
Sandra Bloodworth
Reviewed November 2022
Journey report
Jordan Itinerary was good but an extra day in Petra is definitely a necessary consideration. There is a lot to see in Petra and to fit it all into one day is a struggle to achieve in one day! Overnight in the desert was one of the highlights of the trip. Rather than visit yet another ruin between Petra and the Dead Sea was too tiring and a blur, we all just wanted to get to the holiday inn to relax and make the most of the resort rather than rush to get into the Dead Sea and again rush to get ready for dinner – we didn’t need to be ruled by time at this stage and lost the enjoyment. The guide was knowledgeable but not as informed as he could have been, perhaps a few more facts should have been forthcoming. Crosssing the border from Jordan to Palestine was ok, however the Jordanian guide had no knowledge of what actually happens, presumably your product department have done the journey and are able to brief the jordan office. On arriving on the Palestinian side of the border there was no sign of our new guide, one of our group called the Jordanian guide for assistance,it transpired the Israeli guide was delayed coming through security – surely sufficient time should have been given knowing there are security checks. Palestine An enlightening journey through Jericho and Bethlehem. It would have been interesting to have included more details about Banksy’s art and hotel decoration on the Palestinian side of the wall and had more time to visit the hotel. Israel Jerusalem was chaotic, visiting the Holy sites was a challenge, whilst it is out of Exodus control a complaint to the Israeli tourist office might make a difference. We will be putting forward a complaint ourselves, it seems the Israelis change the rules on a whim which is unacceptable, the Holy sites belong to the world not to any one country. Haifa was a complete and utter waste of time, please remove from the itinerary and don’t waste time which could have been spent in old Jaffa and Tel Aviv which is much more interesting.
Most Inspirational Moment
Overnight in the desert to a five star hotel on the Dead Sea. Jerusalem without the chaos.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jordan guide is still finding his way and needs more knowledge. Israel guide very informative.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Make sure you have any required medications as quite expensive in Jordan and Israel. - Imodium, paracetamol, strepsils etc. Object to the Haifa trip.
Jocelyn Wheeler
Reviewed October 2022
Whistle stop tour of two very different countries
This tour is far too rushed Billed as an 11 trip it is actually only 9 days, the group flight only arriving in Jordan after midnight Hotel at 3.30 on day 2. Some of our group left Tel Aviv hotel at 03.00 on day 11. We saw some amazing sights but always felt rushed. Internal travel was in mini bus not very good for sight seeing or taking in the sometimes stunning countryside as the view is very restricted. On days travelling between hotels the luggage was crammed in on the rear seats and in the gangway, and some was shipped separately in another vehicle. Fingers crossed it got there. we did go to some amazing places. Petra was magnificent but really needed two whole days. Jerusalem was so interesting but sometimes a bit scary, tension is bubbling near the surface here. Tel Aviv was disappointing for most people in our group as it was the sabbath on the day we arrived and many of the promised sights were closed. We were staying on for a few days so we had the opportunity to see everything and contrast it with Jerusalem.
Most Inspirational Moment
Getting to the high point above the monastery in Petra was an achievement. thank goodness we were able to get a scary horse and cart ride back or we'd probably have got locked in. The trip to Bethlehem was a lights on moment for me. I got a feel for the Palestinian frustration and anger.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our Jordanian leader was knowledgeable and did look after us as we expected. He was rather longwinded perhaps from enthusiasm but rather tiring in the hot sun. Too fond of cafe stops, squeezing the time at the sites of interest. The Israeli leader. was incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the country and tried to tell us everything Would have been magnificent if I was studying the history of the region at degree level, but too much standing in the hot sun for so long that we had little time to actually see the places of interest. He was however not really a tour leader in the Exodus style. He wasn't there to meet us when we crossed the border turning up 15 minutes later. Didn't take us into check in at the hotel or was at all concerned about the early closing of restaurants and shops, threatened strike and later gun fire and rioting following the death of a young Palestinian on our free day in Jerusalem. Advice on where to eat ect, missing.
Advice for Potential Travellers
In its present form this trip is quite punishing with little down time. The walking can be hard particularly if you are keen to see as much as possible in Petra.
Suggestions
This tour really need to be 14 days.
Reply from Exodus
We are grateful to you for taking the time to leave a review and are glad that you enjoyed Petra and Bethlehem. However, we were very sorry to read that you felt the itinerary was rushed, and that you were disappointed with aspects of your tour’s leadership and the suitability of your vehicle. We put a great deal of work and thought into designing our itineraries, however I should mention that this is a new trip to Exodus, and we hope clients will appreciate that with tours such as this there may be some aspects that we look to amend in order to improve the overall experience, based on the feedback we receive. Please be assured that I will certainly bear yours in mind when I look at what aspects of the itinerary could be changed when I review the tour ahead of the next season and will consider potentially increasing the amount of time in Petra, as you have suggested. Regarding your tour leaders, though we were pleased to read your positive comments about the knowledge they shared with you about their respective countries, we were equally disappointed to learn that you felt you spent too much time standing in the sun, as I can appreciate this would have been uncomfortable. Whilst the weather is of course an uncontrollable factor, going forward we have suggested that longer talks are given under shade or on board an air-conditioned vehicle to prevent groups being in direct sunlight for extended periods. We are sorry that you found the vehicle provided in Israel to be too small to comfortably seat all group members and their luggage, as we would always want our customers to have smooth travels in destination. Having seen photos of the vehicle used and taking into account the number of clients in your group, we agree with your assessment, and we have therefore followed up with our local operator to make sure larger vehicles are provided on future trips. We hugely appreciate your feedback, as it has allowed us to look to make changes to this tour and ensure that it is as organised, informative, and enjoyable as our customers expect from Exodus trips, though we remain apologetic that this was not your experience.
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Adult Price From£ 2,549£ 3,399
Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement+£ 625
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
*Please note any date & price adjustments will be displayed on the next step of booking. You will be able to revert back to booking without flights if the options aren't suitable for you.
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