A Week in Jordan

We had the most incredible private family tour in Jordan from 20th – 28th September 2025 with a group of 12, and it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everything was exceptionally well organized, and the whole journey flowed smoothly from start to finish. Our host Abdullah was outstanding — warm, patient, and incredibly knowledgeable. He was with us every step of the way, always making sure we were comfortable, while also giving us plenty of free time to explore and enjoy things at our own pace. That balance made the trip feel relaxed yet rich with experiences. Traveling with 12 family members could have been complicated, but with Abdullah, it was effortless. The hotels were first-class throughout — clean, modern, and very comfortable. Each one felt like the perfect place to recharge after an adventurous day. The itinerary was perfectly paced and covered the very best of Jordan: Amman – We started in the capital, exploring its history, culture, and vibrant city life. Jerash – The ancient Roman ruins were breathtaking and gave us a real sense of Jordan’s heritage. Madaba & Mount Nebo – The mosaics and biblical history were fascinating, and the views were unforgettable. Petra – Truly the highlight of the trip! Walking through the Siq and seeing the Treasury for the first time was magical. Exploring the vast site at our own pace made it even more special. Wadi Rum – The desert landscapes were surreal. Our jeep tour and time under the stars in the desert were unforgettable family moments. Aqaba – We enjoyed time by the Red Sea, relaxing and soaking up the sunshine. The Dead Sea – Floating in the salt water was an incredible experience and the perfect way to unwind at the end of the trip. Every stop was memorable, and having Abdullah to guide us with insight and care made it all the more meaningful. Jordan is a spectacular country, but what made this trip truly exceptional was the personal touch, flexibility, and hospitality we experienced. It felt like so much more than just a tour — it was a family adventure filled with warmth, learning, and unforgettable memories.

The trip started out as a bit of a disaster as Royal Jordanian airways had to divert to Cairo, due to the current situation between Israel and Iran. That couldn’t be helped . Upon arrival in Amman 12 later, we were met by an Exodus rep. Because time had been lost there was a lot of catching up to be done. Out tour guide Mikhled had made some very sensible decisions , and although it had been a very long 36hours, from leaving home, we went straight to some of the most wonderful sights as soon as we got to the hotel. So in fact, we didn’t miss out on anything because of the diversion. The hotels were clean, friendly and catered for all our needs. They were centrally located too. The distance between some locations was a lot, but the coaches were air conditioned and lots of stops on the journeys. There was only 8people on the trip, and it was great, as everyone got along really well. Evening meals were not included, however Mikhled, gave us lots of options . being a vegetarian was a bit hit and miss at times, but the starters made up for the main meal. Mikhled took us to some family homes for dinner, and that was very special. Petra , the main attraction was very quiet due to the “Middle East” situation, which made it all the more enjoyable . It was very hot, so not being busy was ideal. Lots of free time on both days there . Mikhled never rushed us. The Dead Sea wa amazing, if not a little weird. It certainly needed to be done. A half day of relaxing at The Red Sea was welcomed. The holiday Inn was amazing, I had the luxury of a “Sea View” room, which was amazing . Bethany beyond The Jordan was very special to me, however slightly marred by the Military , carrying firearms in such a holy place. Understandably, as Israel was a stones throw away, but it did ruin it for me.

A highlight tour of some of Jordan's best sites and an insight into Jordanian life. This was my first trip to a proper "middle eastern" country which is a part of the world we hear much about, some people say it's this or it's that, but to actually see it and experience it yourself is so enlightening. Jordan was great, as I mention later, it is safe and welcoming for us visitors. I never saw or had even a slight inkling of something untoward happening. This trip obviously involves a fair bit of travelling around from one location to another. Our bus/coach was very good, high quality, comfortable with good aircon! We were a group of 16 in what much have been around a 50 seat coach, so there was plenty of space for everyone which made travel comfortable. I appeciated that. The itinery is good for a one week trip, everywhere we went was worthwhile. Our guide Mikhled managed our time at each location well and I never felt rushed. We have plenty of time at Petra which may be the main attraction for many people visiting Jordan. It got very hot here and you cover a surprsing amound of ground walking around what is a very large site. While I agree with Exodus's assessment that overall this is an Easy/Moderate activity level trip. The first day at Petra can perhaps push the boundaries of that for some people. Mikhled gave us a great tour of the main parts of Petra and at the conclusion of this told us we had free time to explore by ourselves and we would meet back at the hotel at a given time.The hotel was very conveniently close to the main entrance, a few hundred metres. Mikhled often gave a guided tour of a location and then allowed us free time afterwards. That was good. Most dinners (Tea! I'm a northerner) are not included in this trip. Most evenings our guide Mikhled offered the group the option of joining him to dine at a local restaurant. There was no compulsion to do this, you are free to do your own thing but most of the time the group dined together. I liked the food in Jordan. Herbed and spiced chicken, lamb and beef featured heavily but not hot spices. We were treated to some Jordanian specialities like "Upside down". As Exodus mention, seafood is the main fare in Aqaba on the Red Sea but there are plenty of other choices if that's not your thing. Exodus also mention the famous "Zarb" at the Wadi Rum desert camp. This was indeed excellent and probably my single favourite meal of the trip. The trip comes to a relaxing end at the Holiday Inn Dead Sea resort. Nice hotel, unlike any Holiday Inn I've stayed at before. There's an optional trip to Bethany Beyand the Jordan. I'm not religious but still went there. There is still some history to see and an interesting border between Jordan and Israel down the middle of the River Jordan. Floating in the Dead Sea was a one of those experiences you've got to tick off. It was a good and slightly strange experience, the water is weird!

Friends were apprehensive about me going to Jordan but it felt one of the safest places I've ever been. We saw no evidence of the conflict in the Middle East! We were also in Petra during the recent flash floods, we were well informed about the history of them, the forecast for that day and what would happen in the event of one. It was our free day there, I and several of the group walked out during the flood, whereas some were transported out. No panic, no mass evacuation, calmly organised with expert people and specialised vehicles on hand but not needed. Don't have any doubts about going, just go! We were met at Amman by an Exodus rep who was so well organised. Kept us together, organised our visas and whisked us past long queues and onto our coach within a few minutes. He also saw us off on departure day and waited till we were all ready to go through the security checks. (Unfortunately I can't remember his name) The people of Jordan are wonderful. You do get people trying to sell to you but they do take No as an answer and leave you alone. The youth of Jordan are so polite and offered me help wherever I was. We had a very comfortable 32 seater coach for the 16 of us, very roomy, air conditioned and had Wi-Fi. Wahim, the driver was excellent, safe, confident, coach was always cleaned and he was dressed immaculatly every day of the tour.

I'd never felt more looked after on a group tour. Great mix of learning and leisure. A perfect intro to Jordan for our age group.