Jordan Pass 8-Night Best of Jordan Tour: Jerash, Petra with Wadi Rum and Aqaba

Discover Jordan’s treasures with the Jordan Pass 8-Night Best of Jordan Tour — a well-rounded journey through history, natural beauty, and local culture. While we haven’t personally experienced every moment, reviews and detailed itineraries tell us this tour offers a fantastic balance of guided sightseeing, free time, and authentic experiences.

What truly stands out are the knowledgeable guides, the chance to float in the Dead Sea, and the stunning views from Mount Nebo. The hotels’ central locations ensure you get a taste of each city’s character, and the inclusion of airport transfers adds convenience.

One potential consideration is the group size, which is limited to 6 travelers, making the experience more intimate but possibly less flexible for those seeking private tours. This tour seems perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, stress-free introduction to Jordan’s highlights — especially if you love history, natural landscapes, and colorful desert scenery.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Jordan’s must-see sights from Amman to Aqaba
• Expert local guides who bring history and culture to life
• Balanced mix of guided tours and free time for personal exploration
• Comfortable hotels in prime locations, with breakfast and dinner included
• Special experiences like floating in the Dead Sea and a jeep ride in Wadi Rum
• Value for money with all transfers, entrance fees (via Jordan Pass), and some guided visits included

An Honest Look at the 8-Night Jordan Tour

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour, priced at around $819.45 per person, offers a generous package that combines transportation, some guided visits, and all accommodations. The airport transfers ensure you start and end your trip smoothly, while the small group size (max 6 travelers) means more personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

The hotels are centrally located in each city, which means you’ll be close to local restaurants, markets, and iconic sites. The included meals — breakfast and dinner — are valuable, especially since Jordanian cuisine is a highlight for many visitors. Plus, you get free Wi-Fi on board the transport, a small but appreciated convenience for staying connected.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival in Amman

Your journey kicks off with a straightforward transfer from Queen Alia International Airport to your hotel. Expect to relax after travel and enjoy your first Jordanian dinner, which can be a great introduction to local flavors.

Day 2: Amman & Jerash

A panoramic tour of Amman introduces you to both the ancient and modern sides of the city. Highlights include the Roman Theater, the Citadel, and the lively Abdali Boulevard. The guide’s commentary will help you understand the city’s layered history and its current vibe.

Next, a drive to Jerash takes you back in time to one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy. Walking through colonnaded streets, theaters, and temples, you’ll appreciate the grandeur of Roman architecture. The review mentions guides being highly knowledgeable and professional, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Tip: Jerash isn’t crowded, as one reviewer pointed out, so it’s a great chance to enjoy ancient ruins without the crowds.

Day 3: Dead Sea & Free Time

Floating in the Dead Sea is an experience not to miss — the saltiness makes you effortlessly buoyant. Many visitors find this surreal, and reviewers describe it as “incredible.” You might also enjoy the pools and beaches, although some facilities might charge extra for private beach access or towels.

The high mineral content and unique sensation make it worth the half-day visit. Afterward, you’ll return to Amman for some leisure time, possibly exploring more or relaxing at your hotel.

Day 4: Madaba, Mount Nebo & Karak

The biblical town of Madaba is famous for its intricate mosaics, especially the Saint George Church map of the Holy Land. Just a short stop, but packed with history. From there, the panoramic views from Mount Nebo give you a perspective of the Jordan Valley that’s as breathtaking as the legends say.

Next, a drive along the Kings Highway to Karak introduces you to a Crusader fortress, giving a glimpse into medieval military architecture. The guide’s storytelling helps bring the history to life, and the stop here offers a chance to stretch your legs.

Day 5: Petra’s Marvels

Petra, the crown jewel of Jordan, is a highlight for most travelers. Your 2-hour guided tour covers the Siq and the Treasury, which is as stunning in person as the photos suggest. The site has been used as a filming location for blockbusters like Indiana Jones and Transformers, adding to its allure.

While the tour itself is limited to two hours, you’ll have time in the afternoon to explore further — maybe hike to the Monastery or visit the High Place of Sacrifice if you’re feeling energetic. The included dinner and overnight in Wadi Musa allow you to relax and reflect on the day’s wonders.

Reviewer insight: Guides are praised for their expertise, making the visit informative rather than just sightseeing.

Day 6: Wadi Rum Adventure

The desert of Wadi Rum offers a stark, moon-like landscape that’s hard to forget. After breakfast, a jeep ride through its canyons, dunes, and rock formations showcases the raw beauty of the area. This 2-hour ride, often described as exhilarating, is a highlight for many.

The connection to Lawrence of Arabia and recent film shoots (Star Wars, The Martian) make Wadi Rum’s landscapes even more fascinating. Expect plenty of photo opportunities and a sense of vastness that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Day 7: Aqaba & Relaxation

Moving to Aqaba, you’ll enjoy the Red Sea’s beaches and coral reefs. Many travelers appreciate the leisure time here, with options for snorkeling or just lounging by the pool. The hotel facilities provide a welcome break after days of exploring, and the warm weather and scenic waters are perfect for unwinding.

Note: Some reviews highlight the quality of hotel locations and the convenience of being close to the sea.

Day 8: Return to Amman

A leisurely morning in Aqaba gives you one last taste of the sea before heading back to Amman. The journey provides a chance to reflect on your trip and enjoy the scenic drive.

Day 9: Departure

Your tour concludes with a transfer to Queen Alia International Airport, making the logistics straightforward.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This tour’s combination of guided visits and free time creates a flexible experience. The inclusion of entrance fees via the Jordan Pass (which you purchase separately) is a smart way to streamline entry to major sites, avoiding long queues and extra expenses.

Hotels in key locations mean you’re close to the action, avoiding long commutes. The meals included help you taste authentic Jordanian cuisine without extra planning. Plus, the small group size ensures a more personal experience, as highlighted by reviewers praising guides like Mahmoud and others for their professionalism and deep knowledge.

The special experiences, such as floating in the Dead Sea and the jeep tour in Wadi Rum, are highlights that justify the tour’s price. These activities are often what travelers remember most and are worth every penny.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs and natural scenery lovers who want to see Jordan’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. The guided elements make it accessible for first-time visitors, while the flexibility of free time appeals to those who enjoy personalized exploration.

Travelers who value comfortable hotels and organized transportation will appreciate the seamless logistics. It’s also suitable for those interested in cinematic locations, biblical sites, and desert adventures.

However, travelers seeking a highly private, customizable trip may find the small group setting a little restrictive. Also, if you’re not a fan of guided tours or prefer to explore entirely independently, this might not be the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is airport transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides arrival and departure transfers from Queen Alia International Airport, making your start and end hassle-free.

Are meals provided throughout the trip?
Breakfast and dinner are included each day, giving you a taste of local cuisine. Lunches are not included but are easy to find at your own expense.

What is the hotel situation?
Hotels are centrally located in Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba, with options ranging from 3 to 5 stars. They include breakfast and dinner, providing comfort after busy sightseeing days.

Can I customize my activities?
The itinerary offers guided tours and free time, allowing some flexibility, especially in Petra and Aqaba. Additional activities like visiting the Petra Museum or exploring more in Aqaba could be possible if you plan ahead.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Expect to see Jerash, float in the Dead Sea, visit Madaba’s mosaics, gaze over the Jordan Valley from Mount Nebo, explore Petra’s breathtaking ruins, enjoy a jeep ride in Wadi Rum, and relax on the beaches of Aqaba.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should contact the tour provider for specific arrangements, as some sites involve walking or uneven terrain.

To sum it up, the Jordan Pass 8-Night Best of Jordan Tour offers an excellent way to see the country’s top sights with expert guides and comfortable accommodations. Its carefully curated itinerary balances guided visits with free time, making it suitable for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

If you’re eager to walk through ancient cities, float in the Dead Sea, and experience the stark beauty of Wadi Rum, this tour delivers value, ease, and plenty of memorable moments. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy a mix of history, adventure, and relaxation all in one trip.

Ideal for those who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Jordan’s highlights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.