Luxury Israel & Jordan Walk 8D7N (Lawrence of Arabia's Route from Amman to Jerusalem), Fully Guided

This morning, meet your tour leaders at 8am in the lobby of the InterContinental Amman. Ensure you arrive dressed in your hiking clothes and come with a daypack containing anything you may want for the day's hike. Your luggage will be transported to your first night’s accommodation.

Welcome to Jordan! Take a journey to one of the world's most treasured archaeological gems with a short shuttle to Madaba. One of the most memorable places in the Holy Land and located on the King’s Highway, it is known as the City of Mosaics which boasts meticulously preserved mosaics from the Byzantine Empire. As we stroll, take in the view of the artworks which narrate a tale about how this part of the earth came to be known as the birthplace of civilization. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional meal of local fare in town, a delightful satisfaction to your appetite.

Your hiking venture begins after a quick shuttle to the base of a gorgeous ridge, Mount Nebo, elevating approximately 2,500 on the outskirts of Madaba. The site is marked as momentous from a religious perspective as it is considered to be a destination where Moses, before his death, was bestowed with the view of the promised land from its crest as per the Bible. If the weather permits, the spectacular view of the Dead Sea, Bethlehem, and Jerusalem as well get revealed from the top. Get fascinated by the collection of Byzantine mosaics at the Basicila which in the 4th century was a monastery constructed by Egyptian monks.

Later this afternoon, journey through the rugged desert terrain towards Petra, a World Heritage site memorably described by poet John William Burgon as a "rose-red metropolis half as old as time." You’ll stay at the lovely Movenpick Hotel. Premised near the entrance of the historic site of Petra, your elegant lodging grants you a fantastic rooftop garden with intoxicating views of Petra's hilly regions. Relax in the outdoor swimming pool or the courtyard fountain before gathering together for a welcome reception and dinner at the elegant Al Iwan, one of the hotel's award-winning restaurants boasting of Mediterranean and Jordanian cuisine.

Level 4, Approx. 15km (9 miles), Elevation gain: 305m (1000ft)

Today, be captivated as you enter a world like no other! Discover the World Heritage site of Petra, where dramatic temples and tombs are carved into crimson rock walls. Let the remarkable history, mysteries and archaeological wonder keep you intrigued.

The ancient city is located outside of Wadi Musa and was the capital of the Nabatean Empire, which was founded in the third century BCE. According to the Bible, Moses quenched the Israelites' thirst by striking a rock in Petra. Get engrossed by the salient features of one of the world’s most renowned archaeological centers, namely, intricate tombs, dams, reservoirs, temples, churches, and various historic ruins as well. To immerse into these time-honored marvels, escape the crowds by walking along the unfrequented tracks surrounding Petra.

After falling prey to the ravaging earthquakes in the 1st century, Petra remained alienated and its remnants were discovered in the early 1800s. Walk in the company of a local expert to learn the intriguing history of the iconic site. Petra is a unique venue presenting the outcomes of age-old artistic and architectural accomplishments in the form of rock-carved temples/tombs such as the Khasneh, the Urn Tomb, the Palace Tomb, and the Corinthian Tomb, and the Deir.

This evening, be treated to customary Arabian cuisine and engage yourself in a hands-on cooking class to closely experience the local culture.

Level 2, Approx. 6.4km (4 miles), Elevation gain: 457m (1500ft)

Today we immerse into some of the accentuating locations of Jordan that grabbed the attention of Hollywood directors. Begin your venture with an early hike to Al-Khazneh temple, widely recognized as ‘Treasury,’ whose 130-foot of circumstantial facet was carved into monolithic sandstone. The site gives a breathtaking viewpoint over Petra - a popular cinematic scene in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Spend time to delve into the wonders of this historic delight before freshening up back at the hotel.

Journey to the torrid land of Wadi Rum, the Valley of the Moon. Set among granite and sandstone, this expansive valley of otherworldly scenery has been home to numerous human cultures since prehistoric times and is dotted by ancient petroglyphs and temples. Modern-day inhabitants of Wadi Rum include the Zalabia Bedouin and tonight be treated to share a family-style dinner prepared in a Bedouin earthen oven.

Tonight, sleep under the stars in the well-appointed Martan Domes of Sun City Camp, a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Unwind in your panoramic tents overlooking majestic sandstone mountains complete with a private deck. Savour the feeling of the vastness of the desert giving out a Martian-like feeling with sweeping views of the starry night sky. The fact that the landscape is filmed in the 2015 movie The Martian justifies your feeling.

Level 2, Approx. 5km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 152.4m (500ft)

Today we witness a dramatic cultural shift at the border crossing as we move our equipage from Jordan to Israel. Wave a warm goodbye to Jordan and cross into adjoining Israel. Get going early to beat the scorching heat and sit astride the camel, the ideal beast to traverse the grinding red sands in Jordan.

Take in the views of far-reaching dunes and then descend the saddle to launch into a shuttle towards the Wadi Araba Border, one of the three portals between Jordan to Israel. The border-crossing process can be time-consuming, even taking up to 60 minutes at times, and utilizes handcarts to shift luggage on your own. We make an all-out effort to make the process as seamless as possible.

Get stunned by the cultural shift after crossing into Israel, the holiest place on earth, featuring a great diversity in religions and origins.

Land up at your exclusive resort, Beresheet Hotel, in the core of the Negev Desert which homes cherry tomatoes and varied vegetation. Dive in the soothing infinity pool that gives pre-eminent views of the world’s largest erosion cirque, Ramon Crater, a natural reserve in southern Israel. Relax in your airy rooms boasting beautiful desert views, unwind by the pool or pamper yourself to a spa treatment (at own expense). NOTE: Some departures might use Six Senses Shaharut for the Night 4 & 5.

Level 4, Approx. 16km (10 miles), Elevation gain: 457m (1500ft)

This morning, savor stunning desert views during a gourmet breakfast at the hotel, then take a quick shuttle to the rim of Mitzpe Ramon. This erosion crater, or makhtesh, was created 220 million years ago when oceans covered the area. Over millennia the ocean subsided to become a river, which slowly carved the impressive cliffs and canyons we see today. Now the surrounding wilderness forms Israel's largest national park and nature reserve, providing a home for unique geology and rare desert wildlife, including nearly tame ibex that seem unperturbed by hikers on the trails. Hiking is the best way to explore this expansive desert landscape, its hidden crevices and subtle flora. But hiking here is often an exposed and hot endeavor.

If you want to stay loose and indulge in leisure, you can opt to simmer down at the Beresheet pool or spa. Make the most of your respite at the hotel by beholding the mesmeric view of the sunset and meet later for yet another delicious dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 3.2km (2 miles), Minimum Elevation gain
Level 3, Approx. 10km (6 miles), Elevation gain: 304m (1000ft)

Enjoy breakfast before traveling to the western base of Masada’s off-lying escarpment in the Judean Desert. Start wayfaring the steep course up to the plateau to come into view of the ruins of a phenomenal fortress. When it comes to the most visited historic site, Masada ranks right after the Dolorosa in Jerusalem. Explore the archaeological site that possesses enormous significance in the eyes of Jews, delighting you with the publicly acclaimed sights of 2,000-year-old ruins, including towers, barracks, winding paths, and a palace. Its architecture erected in the ancient roman-style takes you a way back in time and especially the "hanging" palace with three terraces serves as a paragon of splendid architecture.

Admire the historic opulence of Masada overlooking the dead sea and take in the views of the sea nearing you when you descend the eastern cliff by cable car. A mind-blowing panorama of the dead sea and extensive desert alike is bound to stun you on your way down.

Take an afternoon shuttle to Jerusalem, giving you a period of repose as you head to your luxurious home, the Orient Jerusalem. Walk through the streets of the holy land to the Old City for a view of the Western Wall, a site that holds historic significates in the viewpoint of three religions - Christians, Jews, and Muslims. Get engrossed by the iconic landmarks of domes, temples, and churches while your local guide offers perspective on the contemporary and modern Jerusalem. Immerse into the rich cultural scene before indulging in a special homemade Shabbat Dinner, an invitation by a local resident to his home. Alternatively, you can opt for other dining options with the guidance of your trip leaders.

You’ll stay at Orient Jerusalem nestled closely to the Old City. Unwind at the rooftop pool and bar with sweeping vistas of the Old City, or relax in the indoor pool with Turkish bath and sauna. NOTE: Some departures might use American Colony Hotel for the Night 6 & 7.

Level 2, Approx. 10km (6 miles), Elevation gain: 92m (300ft)

Today you lose the track of time as you head to the West Bank to hike the epic grandeur of Wadi Qelt, a valley festooned with characteristic biota and a section of the biblical pilgrimage route to Jerusalem. You will be left breathless as you view the rocky terrain embellished with lovely springs like Ein Prat. The vistas of the cavernous canyon with several pools and waterfalls will stun you right away. Pick up on the Faran Monastry hanging on the southern cliffs like a wall clock on the wall.

Give all years to the Palestinian guide as you stroll through the politically charged environment to learn about its intricate past and present state of affairs. Walk past the ruins of the Roman-era aqueduct and lay emphasis on the spectacular St. George's Monastery construction into the massive cliff sides. The site features a chapel and gardens and is a dwelling place of Greek Orthodox monks even today. Proceed to the mysterious settlements of Jericho, said to be the world's oldest continuously inhabited city, with evidence of human occupancy dating back to 10,000 years.

You will be served a traditional Palestinian meal after which you can explore the world’s first walled settlement and the historic wonders it unfolds. Unwind back at the hotel and revel in its exquisite facilities like a soothing spa, or well-appointed pool before you take a transient walk to the famed restaurant, Mona, where you can satisfy your taste buds with Israel’s outstanding cuisines.

Level 1, Approx. 5km (3 miles), Minimum Elevation Gain

Make your last day of your journey memorable by exploring treasured gems of the holy land. For those willing to escape the hustle and bustle, we rise early to grab the rarest opportunity of discovering the Dome of the Rock (or Temple Mount). This small yet impressive part of the planet is the most prominent religious venue. There is more to the dome than simply a magnificent structure to admire. The prophet Mohammad is said to have risen to heaven from this octagonal portion of the structure by Muslims. The interior embellished with mosaic, faience, and marble will sparkle your eyes with delight.

If you aim to cherish idle hours in the morning, follow the group later in the morning to lay eyes on gripping structures like the Jewish Quarter, the Via Dolorosa, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Pay a visit to the highlighting sites of the Jewish Quarter such as museums, synagogues, and the most famed, The Western Wall. Visit the Via Dolorosa, a passage through the old city, believed to be the route taken by Jesus on his way to be crucified. The crucifixion and tomb of Jesus of Nazareth are both said to have occurred at the location of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

Pay heed to the locals to grasp the challenges of the old city to preserve its religious diversity. After an unforgettable plunge into a 2500 years old history of Jerusalem, arrive at your resort to freshen up. Appreciate the leaders who walked you to the ancient and natural enthrallments of Israel and Jordan.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.