The Silk Road Treasures & Modern Amman Tour

This five-day cultural tour distinguishes itself from its namesake sibling by dedicating meaningful time to modern Amman — a half-day city tour that balances the ancient with the contemporary. From the Roman Theatre and the Iron Age Citadel to the independent galleries, specialty coffee shops and street art of Rainbow Street, the capital receives the attention it deserves. The remaining four days follow the same route through nine landmark destinations: Jerash, Ajloun, Madaba, Mount Nebo, the Dead Sea, Al-Karak, Petra and Wadi Rum.

The itinerary's dual rhythm — urban one day, archaeological the next — suits travellers who want Jordan in its full range. Highlights include a sunrise approach to Petra through the Siq, an overnight Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum with a 4x4 desert safari, a therapeutic Dead Sea float at the lowest elevation on Earth and a contemplative stop at Mount Nebo, the hilltop from which Moses looked across to the Promised Land. The 6th-century mosaic map in Madaba's St George's Church anchors the stop on the Kings' Highway.

Departures run year-round from Amman; spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons. The tour connects naturally with a Holy Land extension via the Allenby Bridge. Starting from USD 475 per person, the price includes private transport, an English-speaking guide, hotel accommodation and all entrance fees.