Petra & Wadi Rum Trek

8 Days
From CAD 2470
Best Rate
Guarantee
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Unknown

Rating


(20 reviews)

Experience Overview

Some of the most spectacular desert scenery in the world is found in the south of Jordan at Wadi Rum, a place of dramatic beauty providing an ideal environment for trekking. Millennia of erosion has formed wonderful mountains (known as jebels) that rise from the desert sands, creating exciting terrain that we explore from the valley bottom to the jebel tops. Throughout the trip, we are accompanied by local Bedouin people and shall camp as they do, under the stars. Our trip finishes with a walk via the Back Trail into the ancient rock city of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Profile
— Accommodation: 2 Classic nights (hotels), 5 Simple nights (3 full-service wild camping, 2 Bedouin camp) — Five days of walking — Altitude maximum: 2,950ft (900m) — Group normally 5 to 14, plus leader. Minimum age: 16 — Free airport transfer for any flight
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 2 Classic nights (hotels), 5 Simple nights (3 full-service wild camping, 2 Bedouin camp) — Five days of walking — Altitude maximum: 2,950ft (900m) — Group normally 5 to 14, plus leader. Minimum age: 16 — Free airport transfer for any flight
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 4 (Moderate & Challenging). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.   A good level of fitness is required. Previous trekking experience is desirable but not vital as long as you are confident of your physical condition. Each day your main luggage will be transported in 4x4s; all you need to carry is your daypack. We use hotels in Amman and Petra but while trekking in the desert the facilities are basic (no toilets and showers) so please take this into consideration when assessing whether this trip is right for you. We spend up to six hours a day trekking and you need to be fit enough to cope with this. We will be walking on sand and scrambling over rocky terrain on days 3 (no scrambling), 4 and 5. At times, this can be relatively steep with uneven ground and in some instances ropes may be used. Please note that just before the Burdah Bridge ascent (day 4), there is a challenging section that may not be enjoyable for those with a fear of heights. During winter, Jordan can experience low temperatures so it is really important you are adequately equipped for the nights in the desert (it can drop to freezing). Conversely, it can get very hot during summer and you will need to ensure you are hydrated and have appropriate sun protection.
Group Description
There will be either one or two local leader/drivers (depending on group size) who will escort you for the whole tour.
Eating Drinking
All meals are included while trekking. The three nights spent in hotels are on a bed-and-breakfast basis. You will be required to buy two lunches on days 2 and 7 and dinners on day 1 (depending on flight arrival time), 6 and 7. Allow about 64 Jordanian dinars (US$90) to cover these meals. On days where lunch is not included, your guide will recommend local restaurants. We usually eat in restaurants where traditional food is served to allow maximum flexibility of choice, and, for those who wish, to try a meze-style meal. You can usually expect food options to include rice, beans, salads, and meat.  If you are vegetarian, please note that main meals are limited in choice; however, meze is almost always available in restaurants and is a good choice for vegetarians, usually costing approximately 15 dinars (US$21) per person. Unlimited drinking water is provided free of charge on the trek in Wadi Rum. 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 want a drink, your tour leader will be able to 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.
Transportation
For airport transfers and days when we are not trekking, we use one air-conditioned bus or minibus depending on group size, with local drivers. Occasionally, we use two vehicles for the group. In Wadi Rum, we use basic four-wheel-drive vehicles that are owned by a local Bedouin family. The vehicles are appropriate for local desert travel but may fall below normal vehicle safety standards expected on our trips. As there are no other vehicles available and as we are not travelling by road we feel they are adequate for the job.
Joining Instructions
Key information 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: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) Getting to the start hotel 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. Catching your return flight Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) from the end hotel. Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; 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.
Weather Information
Spring and autumn are very popular in Jordan as it is cooler, around 24C (75F) in the day and 8C (46F) at night. Rain is more likely; however, protracted bad weather is unlikely. It is hot and dry (but not unpleasant) throughout Jordan in the summer. Daytime maximum temperatures are around 32C (90F) in Amman. Wadi Rum is around 30C (86F) on average in summer though it can get as high as 40C (104F). At night it is usually cooler. 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.
Spending Money
Optional Excursions There are several optional excursions on offer throughout the trip. Your leader will provide details of these on arrival. While at Wadi Rum, you may encounter local Bedouins selling camel rides. These rides are taken at your own risk. Please note, all prices are subject to change. — Camel rides in the Wadi Rum: Camel rides provided by the local Bedouins. A trek from the camp to the local village will take approximately 1hr 20min and cost 20 dinars (US$28) per person — Amman entry fees: Citadel: 3 dinars (US$4.20) per person; theatre: 2 dinars (US$2.80) per person; Mosque Abdallah: 2 dinars (US$2.80) per person
Tipping
Our local staff are paid fairly for their work. However, tipping is part of the culture in Jordan and generally expected. For tipping your trekking staff, driver, hotel staff and other local staff, we recommend the use of a tipping kitty. Your leader can advise on the amount, as a guide, expect it to be approximately 43 dinars (US$60) for this trip. This kitty can be placed in the hands of one of the group members to look after and the leader will advise where it is appropriate to tip. If preferred, however, the leader can manage this for the group. The kitty is there to ease confusion and embarrassment by not knowing how much or how little to tip. Most clients also wish to tip their Tour Leader and as a guide we suggest 29 dinars (US$40) per person for this trip. Most groups prefer to present the money to the leader at the end of the week in an envelope. The amount is at your discretion and our suggested amount is to be used as a guideline only.

Highlights

  • — Join Bedouin guides for a walking adventure in the arid Wadi Rum desert — Wild camp under the stars – your tent transported and put up by our desert team! — Experience local hospitality with our stay in two Bedouin camps — Join new-found friends to marvel at desert sunrises and sunsets — Hike the lesser-known Back Trail to the red rose city of Petra

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 4338

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Moderate

TransportTransport: the job.

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: TXR

StartStarts: Amman, Jordan

FinishFinishes: Amman, Jordan

DurationDuration: 8 days

DeparturesDepartures: Not Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Unknown

Includes

  • — All breakfasts, four lunches, five dinners — All accommodation — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughout — Arrival and departure transfers

Accommodation

Hotels, full-service camping and wild camping
On this adventurous walking trip in Jordan, we spend two nights in a hotel in Amman, one night in a Bedouin camp near Little Petra, one night at a private permanent camp in Wadi Rum and three nights wild camping. Amman: Larsa Hotel (nights 1 and 7)  Our first and final accommodation is usually the Larsa Hotel, around a 30-minute drive from Queen Alia International Airport. Locally rated as a three-star, it has some welcome amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, sauna and hot tub. There’s also a restaurant, where we eat breakfast, plus a bar. Wadi Rum: Private Bedouin camp (night 2)  Used exclusively by our groups, this permanent Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum is a highlight for many travellers. We sleep in traditional tents sheltered by rugged stone cliffs and enjoy the warm hospitality of our Bedouin hosts. The tents are equipped with basic beds, sheets and blankets and the site has plumbed toilets and basins, and basic shower facilities with (limited) hot water. In the evening, they serve us a zarb dinner, cooked underground in the traditional manner, while the rest of the night is typically spent around the campfire, chatting and sharing an unforgettable experience.  Wild camping (nights 3-5) For our three nights camping in the wild, we sleep in dome tents (pitched by the desert team). There are no toilets or wash facilities – this is the wild after all – but we do provide mattresses to sleep on (about 4in/10cm thick). To make things a little easier, our camping equipment is transported to the sites for us, meaning we don’t have to carry it. Near Little Petra: Ammarin Bedouin Camp (night 6) Our last camping night is spent at Ammarin Bedouin Camp near Little Petra, which sits at the foot of a protective rock wall. It is not exclusive to Exodus, so there are likely to be other guests in addition to our group, but the site does have shared shower and toilet facilities – a luxury after our last three nights in the wild! The site is run by members of the local Bedouin Ammarin people, a community traditionally comprised of camel and goat herders.

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 2470 (CAD 309 /day)

Itinerary

1
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: Larsa Hotel (or similar)

2
Day 2: Drive to Wadi Rum

After breakfast, there is an opportunity to exchange money and purchase snacks for the upcoming desert trek. We then transfer by bus to Wadi Rum (four to five hours). We visit the Wadi Rum visitor centre and take in the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, a spectacular rock formation with seven fluted turrets. It is a short transfer to the start of our introductory walk where we walk to Um Al Bdoun, a private campsite run by local Bedouin people. In the evening, we enjoy a traditional zarb dinner, for which a cooking pot is dug into the sand and left for most of the day to slow cook meats and vegetables. Accommodation: Permanent Bedouin camp

3
Day 3: Traverse Siq el Barrah

From our campsite, we trek through Siq el Barrah, a magnificent desert canyon with immense rock walls. We continue through open desert and there is a tangible sense of wilderness as we pass sandstone mountains and rocky outcrops. We set up camp beneath the shade of two rocky mountains, Rakaa and Mharrak. Accommodation: Wild camping

4
Day 4: Trek to Jebel Burdah

We begin with an optional excursion to Jebel Burdah, which includes sections of scrambling and the use of ropes, particularly for those who choose to ascend to the top of Burdah Bridge — an impressive rock formation spanning two cliffs. Guests have the flexibility to remain at the campsite instead of participating in this trek. Please note, the final section of the hike, to the top of Burdah Bridge, is also optional; hikers can choose to wait at the base of the bridge. Panoramic views can be enjoyed throughout the trek. Later in the afternoon, we continue our journey to our next campsite situated atop dunes near Jebel Umm Fruth in the southeast corner of the Wadi Rum desert. Accommodation: Wild camping

5
Day 5: On to Wadi Khashkhasheh

Today, we head to Umm Fruth Rock Bridge, just a short walk from our campsite. Umm Fruth requires some easy-level scrambling. The ascent is steep and short and the sandstone is firm with good underfoot grip. We continue our trek to the ruins of Lawrence House, where TE Lawrence – also known as Lawrence of Arabia – is said to have slept. In the afternoon, we traverse across remote red-sand dunes with spectacular views throughout. There is an opportunity to see historic rock inscriptions before we set up camp tonight in the crook of a desert mountain. Accommodation: Wild camping

6
Day 6: Leave the desert for Little Petra

Our last morning in the desert starts with a walk or optional camel trek through Wadi Umm Al Ishrim. We transfer towards Petra around lunchtime. In the afternoon, we will visit Little Petra, a smaller but still impressive version of the main Petra site. We spend tonight in a fixed camp (with shared showers and toilets) near Little Petra. Accommodation: Ammarin Bedouin Camp

7
Day 7: Walk the Back Trail to Petra; then drive to Amman

This morning, we set off early to explore the ancient city of Petra, a Unesco World Heritage site known for its astonishing scale. We take the lesser-known Back Trail to Petra, cutting through a rocky landscape overlooking Wadi Araba. In contrast to the typical tourist track, we arrive first at the Monastery, giving us the chance to see it at a quieter time. From here, we proceed through the vast site, exiting via the Treasury and the Siq. In the centre of Petra, we pass the houses and tombs of the more affluent citizens and a Roman amphitheatre, preserved in remarkable condition. Beyond the city centre is El Deir, the Monastery. Its superb facade is carved into the rock and topped by a huge urn. We’ll spend about six hours in total walking through Petra. After our visit, we transfer back to Amman. Accommodation: Larsa Hotel (or similar)

8
Day 8: End Amman

Tour ends in Amman after breakfast. Speak to your sales representative if you’d like to stay in Amman a little longer to explore and rest after an extraordinary week in the desert.

Tour Operator

Exodus Travel

It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.

In Business Since 1974

Reviews

 

Claire Homes   -  Traveled, September 2023

Wild camping Wadi rum and Petra We have had a brilliant holiday, Abdullah was great he gave us lots of information and history about wadi rum and Petra. Considering we were wild camping our chef made some great food. Plenty of water and tea, coffee wasn’t so great. Most Inspirational Moment The sun sets were amazing, and getting up in morning to a beautiful sun rise. Petra is amazing I highly recommend it. Thoughts on Group Leader Abdullah is an excellent group leader, he answer our questions, help us in any way he could. Advice for Potential Travellers Lots of hiking in sand, you do have to ready for heat we did stop for water and food breaks. It does get very cold at night. Suggestions The days inn hotel is not 4*.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/12/2023

 

Gerry Frizzelle   -  Traveled, February 2023

Addition to submission already made I already submitted a review form and won’t add to the comments made there. But I realsied that I wasn’t prompted to say anything about the two hotels we stayed in (or maybe I missed that). These were: Edom Hotel (Wadi Musa / Petra). This was really excellent. Clean, efficient, well-placed and a pleasure to visit. I have no idea why it is only described as “comfortable” rather than being given a deserved 4* rating. The only minor downisde was no bottled water in rooms. Days Inn Hotel Amman. Well, at least the staff are nice and we got bottled water in the rooms! But in other respects it is poor and certainly not deserving of a 4* rating. Everything is tatty, the corridors and rooms – despite being notionally non-smoking – reek of cigarette smoke (this applied to two visits and two different rooms a week apart) and, on our second visit, the bath had not been cleaned – there was a wet pile of hair in the middle of it. I am sure that Amman can do better than this for the same money.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/15/2023

 

David Mccauley   -  Traveled, October 2022

Excellent Wadi Rum, Do it.. Overall, the trip was excellent, totally exceeded our expectations in every way, from start to finish the trip was very well organized, we were well looked after and felt completely safe. Trip leader Abdullah was the best, extremely knowledgeable, always helpful and available, nothing was any trouble, the trek through Wadi Rum was amazing, absolutely unbelievable landscape which constantly changed, the climb up to the bridge was unexpected but an absolute highlight and well worth the effort. The trekking was comfortable with plenty of breaks, with Abdullah constantly passing on his vast knowledge of this place and its amazing history. We could have happily spent another couple of days in Wadi Rum. Also have to credit Abdullahs team who were all amazing, always singing and laughing, setting up the camp, along with a campfire, and keeping us topped up with tea, the food was plentiful and excellent, we have enjoyed a lot of treks with Exodus and this one is up there with the beat, would highly recommend, and Petra will just blow your mind. Most Inspirational Moment Climbing up to Burdah Bridge and standing on top of it, and the first sight of the Treasury in Petra. Thoughts on Group Leader Couldn't have asked for a better leader. Advice for Potential Travellers Do it and embrace everything. you'll be glad you did..

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/17/2022

 

Elizabeth Kilgallon   -  Traveled, August 2022

Wild Camping, Star Gazing and Camels! Fantastic Trek through Wadi Rum’s amazing landscape and then a day spent at Petra exploring the fascinating and ancient ruins. Most Inspirational Moment My abiding memory will be of lying round the campfire at night, gazing up at the fantastic canopy of stars. Wild camping at it's best. I thoroughly enjoyed the two hour scramble to Burdah Bridge and the challenge of standing on the bridge - what a fabulous location. And the Wadi Rum landscape - just amazing. I opted for the camel ride for the last morning of the trip - again I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would recommend it to anyone who has not done a camel ride before. Thoughts on Group Leader Our guide Abdullah was fantastic and so knowledgeable about his country's very long history and the Bedouin way of life. We were well supported by a jeep with crew, which not only carried all our luggage and camping equipment but met up with us every two hours to replenish our water supplies. Advice for Potential Travellers My flight arrived at midnight and it was 2:30am before I got to bed in Amman. At 5am you are woken by the call to prayer. I was really tired the next day. The rest of the group (mostly from outside the UK) had flown in the day before and had rested but also had chance to explore Amman - I wish I had done this. Suggestions I did add an extra day to the end of my trip - a day at a Dead Sea resort - Exodus arranged this for me and all the transfers. I had a thoroughly enjoyable day at the resort and bobbin' in the dead sea - it was fun and another experience to add to my Jordan trip.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/17/2022

 

Martin Morris   -  Traveled, February 2022

Petra and wadi Rum adventure This trip exceeded expectations, particularly the Wadi Rum trek. This part of the week was really well organised and the desert is even more impressive and interesting than anticipated. The combination of a few day’s trekking and then a visit to one of the modern seven wonders of the world at Petra makes for a great vacation. You do have to be ready for some wild camping, but the support is excellent and the standard of the food and the regular provision of water and rest stops works very well in the hot desert climate. Most Inspirational Moment The most inspirational moment was walking towards the Treasury at Petra, having read so much about it and seen it in documentaries and films it was fantastic to be there in person and see it for real. In fact the whole site including Petra and Little Petra is quite amazing, is scale is vast and full of impressive carved tombs. Thoughts on Group Leader The group leader Abdullah was excellent, well organised, very friendly with a good sense of humour he very much made the trip such a great experience. I felt you could always rely on him to provide any help, assistance and advice when needed. Advice for Potential Travellers You don't need to pack as much kit as you might think, but make sure to take worm clothing and a good jacket. Its cold ait night in the desert but Petra was particularly cold in March with a strong wind blowing through the canyons. Suggestions Climbing the Burdah rock bridge is a great experience but its done without any protection from falls. This is OK for people with some scrambling experience and this part of the trip is definitely optional. However any falls on this route could have drastic or even fatal consequences so it would be good to see some additional precautions taken on the more exposed sections of the route. One member of our group was hauled up the last few meters using a headscarf and a piece of string, a practice which carries considerable risks should anything go wrong.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/15/2022

 

Catherine Hurst   -  Traveled, February 2022

Outstanding trip to Jordan I had high expectations for this trip and they were surpassed. The trip is a real adventure and I enjoyed every minute of it, walking in the desert and feeling immersed in the incredible place that is Wadi Rum. The scenery is amazing, our guide was fantastic and the desert team looked after us well, creating great meals three times a day. Petra takes your breath away. Most Inspirational Moment There were a number of great moments - watching the sun set in the desert, camping in different places - each one special; climbing up to Burdah Bridge (way outside my comfort zone, but I wouldn't have missed it for the world); and finishing with a visit to Petra. Thoughts on Group Leader Our guide and leader was Abdallah Marashdeh. He was superb in every way. Informative, knowledgeable, friendly, helpful, kind and with a great sense of humour. He could not have been better. Suggestions Go. This trip will leave you buzzing.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/17/2022

 

William Denning   -  Traveled, October 2021

Wadi Rum & Petra Booked this trek at the last minute and was not disappointed, the time of the year meant that the weather was ideal and made the days trekking that much more enjoyable. The first day was the minibus drive from Amman down into he Wadi Rum area which ended with a short trek to the night camp in the Bedouin village tents. The evening meal was a traditionally cooked meal that that had been covered and buried in the hot sand on top of hot charcoal. a good nights sleep ensure we were ready for a good full day trek on the next day. The remaining days covered a lot of ground and sand and the group was a good mixture of different nationalities (2 Irish, 3 Scottish, 2 Netherlanders, 1 French, 5 English ) we all soon gelled soon enjoyed each others company this made good getting the background about what and where we had been and done. Whilst the trekking was not overly difficult, a fair level of fitness is required not only for the distance to be covered, but to take into account the hot weather and the trekking up to 8 hours on the longest day mainly over sand. Most Inspirational Moment Each day brought something special and inspirational from the trek across the desert and traverse of Sig el Barrah canyon, climbing up to the Burdah Arch which is quite spectacular but does require a head for heights. Ascending up some of the great red sand dunes for which Wadi Rum is quite famous for. The day spent seeing the amazing area and buildings of Petra and Little Petra. Being able to sleep under the open sky and to see the night sky as it should be seen and not spoiled by the the light pollution we suffer from in the built up areas of the UK Thoughts on Group Leader Our guide Abdullah (wanted to be known as Ab) was truly amazing and so knowledgeable certainly made the trekking a true history lesson. His passion, history and his manner in which he put it across ensured he had all of our attention when he spoke. He has a great sense of humour which was greatly appreciated by all and brought many a laugh. He had a great re- pore with everyone in the group and he ensured all understood what the days trek included and assisted those to achieve the most of the days events. The rest of the local team obviously also enjoyed working with Ab the camping and meals where always a pleasure Advice for Potential Travellers Although not the hottest time of the year in Jordan the importance of keeping hydrated cannot be understated and a minimum 2 water bottles should be carried there is always ample opportunity to topping up your bottles with clean drinkable water. A day sack is all you will be required to carry each day for what you choose to carry. You will meet up with you main baggage at the end of each day. Also a good 4 season sleeping bag as it does get cold!! in the desert in the evening/night Suggestions I found it a great trek and enjoyed each day, my only regret was not to extend the trip by a couple of days to be able to take in a trip to the 'Dead Sea' which a few of our group had planned.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/13/2019

 

Fred Swaine   -  Traveled, September 2019

Excellent time in Jordan An excellent way of seeing parts of Jordan. The trek in Wadi Rum was wonderful; a great way of taking the area in at a pace that allows one to appreciate its natural beauty. Scrambling up Burdah to the stone arch was fun and was a change from the daily trekking. Support worked well, particularly enjoyed the omelettes that were made for breakfast one morning. Petra is magnificent and appreciated our guide Mohammed leading us to the less crowded areas, explaining how the city developed and managed its water. Little Petra was fascinating and only has a fraction of the crowds at Petra itself. Would highly recommend. Most Inspirational Moment The desert nights were warm enough to sleep outside the tent under the stars - starry sky was splendid - it was a quiet highlight of the trip for me. Thoughts on Group Leader Mohammed Abdul Aziz was a great group leader; engaged with all members of the group and a source of history and understanding of the surroundings. Advice for Potential Travellers Trekking was relatively easy and should not deter people from doing the trip. We did pause in the early afternoon after lunch so we were not hiking at peak temperatures. Suggestions A fine means of experiencing parts of Jordan.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/26/2019

 

Malcolm Mahony   -  Traveled, April 2019

Fascinating and beautiful country The desert landscape and Petra are stunning. The scrambling is exciting. The archaeology is outstanding. The culture is fascinating. Most Inspirational Moment See above. Thoughts on Group Leader Abdullah worked hard to make the trip successful and enjoyable. He was totally unflappable! Advice for Potential Travellers You should be aware that the trekking area is heavily used by 4-wheel drive vehicles taking tourists on day trips. This compromises the wilderness feel. Unfortunately they also leave behind a lot of plastic litter. Suggestions I was very impressed by the generally tolerant and supportive attitude of Jordanians towards the 3 million plus refugees who live there. What a contrast to most other countries! Excellent service by Exodus staff.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/17/2019

 

Suzanne Kane   -  Traveled, April 2019

title is good and reflects the event I very much enjoyed this trip, the desert, scrambling, company and guide. As expected the tent accommodation was basic but fine. The food was adequate but the ingredients a bit repetitive but I suppose that this is what one should expect in the desert. The main problem I had was the fact that the desert is a very popular day outing for tourists in open trucks, of which there were many. The high number of trucks etc mitigated against the feeling of being in the desert/wilderness. We had to jump off the track many times and at one point had a couple of open vans careering down a steep slope towards us. A bit disconcerting. Most Inspirational Moment The fact of being in a desert, which I had not experienced before, and the scramble up the hill which I very much enjoyed. Thoughts on Group Leader Abdulla was an exceptionally good guide. Knowledgeable, honest especially when he did not know something, humorous, and very diplomatic when required. Attentive and fun. Suggestions I enjoyed being in a very nice group who all got on well.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/25/2019

 

D Metronome   -  Traveled, April 2019

Check small print +wadi rum trekking awesome -felt obliged to tip -dietary medical needs not conveyed to chef – sleeping bag provided was broken & not suitable season – Mena & Petra palace less than suitable abodes + Guide Abdullah was awesome – chef & Tool did well despite resources in dessert Most Inspirational Moment Final camp realising last time needed to assemble own tent Thoughts on Group Leader Good but aware / keen to keep us together even in last 48 hours Advice for Potential Travellers Take: Gaitors Ear plugs Eye mask Head torch Dead Sea neoprene booties Compeed & variations Buy Arab scarf in event of sand storms Take Jordanian dinards £150 circa. Expect to spend £100. Dessert freezing at night. Suggestions See above

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/23/2019

 

Tony Rose   -  Traveled, February 2019

In a trail of the Middle East A fantastic experience, trekking through Wadi Rum, camping with the Bedouins, walking in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia. The jewel in the crown of this trip was A full day in Petra ,The red rose city. The people of Jordan were warm and friendly adding to an all round enjoyable trip. Most Inspirational Moment First sight of The Treasury, amazing. We set off at 6 am to beat the crowds, and was not disappointed, as we were one of the first groups there and managed to get some photos without anyone in the background Thoughts on Group Leader Our leader Abdallah, was passionate, knowledgeable with a wicked sense of humour and a cheeky grin. Advice for Potential Travellers Take a hip flask, it is a job to get a drink outside of Amman Suggestions I thoroughly recommend this trip

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/28/2019

 

David Austin   -  Traveled, October 2021

Excellent trip Excellent trip. Well organised and great itinerary. The scenery was better than expected. I went in late November in off peak season and it was the right temperature and busyness. I can imagine in peak season the experience might be different – Wadi Rum has lots of cars using the same tracks as us and Petra was busy in places. The trip notes say tipping is voluntary, it’s not, it is mandatory and you will be told to pay more if you don’t give enough which can be awkward. Overall an excellent trip and one of the best I have been on. Most Inspirational Moment Camping was great. Views were amazing and was nice to sit around the fire. Stars were the best I’ve seen. Thoughts on Group Leader Ab was fantastic, as were all the support staff. Advice for Potential Travellers Go off-season.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/27/2021

 

MARY-ANN PRESTON   -  Traveled, February 2019

Amazing! I have just returned from this wonderful week. It was such a different experience to anything I have every done – slogging daily through loose deep sand (so glad I spent those weeks beforehand training hard!), wild camping in completely remote desert locations, sitting round a camp fire drinking hot thyme infused black tea, eating delicious feasts produced as if by magic by Youssef, and much much more. Our delightful guide Abdullah gave us such detailed and enlightening information about Jordan and in particular about the Bedouin people and culture who lived in this area and the ancient Nabataeans who created the spectacular site that is Petra and ruled there for hundreds of years. Thank you Exodus for this amazing experience. Most Inspirational Moment Those wonderful morning and afternoon snacks and hot lunch and evening meals conjured up as if by magic by Youssef. His kitchen was discreetly hidden behind the trucks and he and his helper brought it all out ready assembled on their fold up table. Wonderful! Thoughts on Group Leader Abdullah was so charming and an amazing leader. So knowledgeable, his descriptions of the culture and history of the Bedouins and Nabataeans was inspirational. Advice for Potential Travellers I found I'd taken all the wrong clothes for this time of year. Although it warmed up in the day, I didn't have enough warm layers for the evenings and at night camping. Take a really good sleeping bag. Mine was a 3/4 season one but I was not nearly warm enough.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/12/2019

 

Vicky Harper   -  Traveled, September 2018

Trip of a life time! I had wanted to visit Jordan and Petra for a long time and I finally got around to booking, choosing exodus. We are an active couple and wanted a trip that would challenge us but we could also see the sites. This trip had everything we wanted and it did not disappoint. Most Inspirational Moment Wadi Rum desert is an incredible landscape. Nothing like I have ever seen. From waking up and seeing the view from your tent to sitting around a campfire with your new found friends looking at the most insane starry sky. I never thought it was possible to see the Milky way so clearly, in wadi rum it is. Petra. The whole day was amazing. Its so much more than The Treasury. We walked for 10 miles that day and loved every minute! Thoughts on Group Leader Issa our group leader was great, he loved telling us stories and explaining the history of the area. He was so organised, so organised that every looked so easy. There was no issues. I would also like to mention the brothers who looked after us from the moment we stayed at their Bedouin camp to wild camping for the next few days. Great hospitality and company. Advice for Potential Travellers If I were to do this trip again. Id pack half of what I took. I would also use an exodus sleeping bag and take a sleeping bag liner with me instead. I found that it was warm enough not to use a sleeping bag. We went in early October. Wet wipes are a must as long as long as you don't litter and a head torch is deffo handy when you have a call of nature at 4am in the morning. Ooo and a battery pack for your camera when you are out in the desert, forget your phone theres no signal, enjoy the break! Blisters: Take blister plasters with you. I had a couple put plasters on straight away and no issues or discomfort. Catch them straight away! Suggestions The hotel in Amman was not good and have reported this to Exodus. On a fitness front: I am not a walker. I went on a few long 3 hour walks before I went and found the trip not too challenging. The challenges are the soft sanded areas and heat. Take a hat and you will be fine. Don't be put off you can do it!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/23/2018

 

Saeah Briggs   -  Traveled, September 2018

Amazing country Jordan was like no other country on earth, the trekking on sand was challenging but the routes seemed to be planned to take break points just at the point I felt I couldn’t do anymore! Most Inspirational Moment ? Advice for Potential Travellers I’d dressed more conservatively than I needed to - girls are ok in respectable length shorts and short sleeved tops in the desert and at Petra.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/16/2018

 

Ailsa Watson   -  Traveled, April 2018

AMAZING EXPERIENCE!!! I knew before I even left for this trip that it was going to be something special, but I didn’t realise just how special that would be. The scenery is breathtaking throughout the desert and in Petra it’s easy to see why it is a World Heritage Site! we spent 4 nights, 5 days wild camping in the desert with the beduoin and it really was a beautiful experience in so many ways. Sleeping under the stars or in our tents, we were looked after in every aspect and they really could not do enough for us and always with a smile on their faces. Our Guide Issa was knowledgeable, friendly and approachable I learnt an awful lot from him as we walked and chatted along with way. Jordan is a strikingly beautiful country with so much history it really is worth a visit, I can guarantee you will 100% not regret it. Take me back!!! Most Inspirational Moment The beautiful desert scenes that we woke up to every day. The sunsets over the sandstone rocks every evening. Money is of no consequence in the desert. Thoughts on Group Leader Issa was a fabulous tour guide there was nothing he did not know and he handled every situation (some unexpected) we came across with ease, confidence and a friendly nature.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/27/2018

 

Brian Kite   -  Traveled, February 2018

Fantastic Wadi Rum and Petra Fantastic walk through the Jordanian desert made famous by the exploits of Lawrence of Arabia. We had expected sand but not the beautiful sandstone hills / mountains which changed colour during the day and showing incredible orange hues at sunset. Most Inspirational Moment All of it! The initial walk over a huge dune to the Bedouin camp and walking back for the sunset. The Bedouin cooking and especially the zarb were highlights. All of the walks were enjoyable especially the climb - and descent from - Burdah Bridge. The walks were well paced with frequent water stops. (On this trip plentiful water refills were available.) Issa took us into Petra via an interesting walk past a Neolithic village site and the mountain which was one of King Solomon's Mines. This meant our first view of Petra was the Monastery. By the time we were ready (after lunch) to explore the rest of Petra the bulk of tourists were just arriving and struggling UP the 400 steps. We had the luxury of descending. Thoughts on Group Leader Issa had a clear love and enthusiasm for his country which he shared at all times. He arranged appropriate stops on the drive to Wadi Rum. He looked after us well in the desert ensuring people always had water and opportunities for water stops. He chose camp sites with opportunities for spectacular sunsets and star gazing. Advice for Potential Travellers We had taken sterling and US dollar notes to exchange to Jordanian Dinars. The bank we stopped at would not accept our £20 and £10 notes. They said they could only accept £50 notes. Fortunately, we were able to use the ATM. Suggestions The tents were obviously new and the Bedouin staff took good care of them. It was a special treat to find, on the last day of the trek, they had put the tents up for us. Do take the opportunity to have the Turkish bath in Petra. It was a final bonding experience!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/24/2018

 

Eric Brierley   -  Traveled, September 2017

The best that Jordan can offer From day 1 I loved the feel Of Jordan, Jordan is a place of friendly people. The desert hike and Petra will not disappoint you. I added 3 extra days, 1 before the hike to see Amman, and 2 after to visit Jerash and the dead sea, and there are plenty of other places to see. Most Inspirational Moment being in a group of like minded people, and we all got on working as a team to help each other. The wild camping under the mass of stars, just never see so many stars. And Petra no words to describe just see for your self. Thoughts on Group Leader The Group leader was great, made sure we were supplied with plenty of water and good places to stop in the desert for a rest from the baking sun. And a good laugh too. Advice for Potential Travellers Make sure you have plenty of sun screen high factor is best, a good sun hat. And yes don't pack too much like I did( what do you need in the desert ? Not a lot ) Suggestions Knowing how to put up a tent is a handy thing to know. I didn't but I do now :)

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/25/2017

 

Mark Gilbert  -  Traveled, September 2017

Petra and wadi rum trek A great trek thru the wadi rum desert,highlights of seeing Petra are amazing.Tour guide and helpers very friendly,would def recommend trip. Exodus needs to buy new tents,you have to put these up yourself but many were broken which upset some Trekkers,guide said he has relayed this back but doesn’t seem to get heard! Water is suppose to be supplied but we had to buy six bottles each,that’s 78 bottles so not eco friendly exodus? Especially when some of the rubbish is being burnt on campfire!!!! All in all tho this trip is a big tick off of list and worth a go. Most Inspirational Moment Walking thru and getting first glimpse of the treasury in Petra. Thoughts on Group Leader Was very friendly,socialised with the group and loved to tell camp fire stories at night! Advice for Potential Travellers Lots of walking thru sand which can be tiring so be prepared. Also it says that as an option take wet wipes,no no no,you MUST take wet wipes or for three days you will not be washing! Toilet is behind a rock you find and cover in sand after?? but that's wild camping for you. Plenty of snacks as well.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/26/2017

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