Embark on a 4-day pilgrimage through the biblical history and stunning landscapes of Jordan. Explore the captivating landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the ancient city of Petra. Seek out the remains of Sodom and Gomorrah, visit the baptism site, and stand where John the Baptist was executed. This carefully curated itinerary takes you to the heart of Jordan’s biblical destinations, offering an exciting, meaningful, and spiritual experience.
Crossing into Jordan near Eilat, the first stop will be Wadi Rum. Stretched over nearly 300 square miles, Wadi Rum is one of the most beautiful deserts in the world. Embark on an off-road tour on pickup trucks or ATVs and explore the lunar-shaped majestic landscape of this iconic nature reserve. Next, drive into Wadi Musa and, after a lunch break, head into the legendary site of Petra. The dramatic walk along the gorge (Siq) will lead you the famous “treasury” monument, followed by the city’s main monuments. Take you time to observe it all and consider hiking back through Petra’s high place of Sacrifice.
Heading north, your first stop will be the Medieval castle of Shobak. Established by Baldwin I of Jerusalem in 1115 AD, it was one of the essential Crusaders’ strongholds in Transjordan. Next, passing by Dana Biosphere Reserve and Biblical Sela, you will reach Lot’s Cave. According to centuries-old tradition, Lot hid with his daughters here after the violent destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Nearby, at Bab edh-Dhra, track prehistorical remains attributed to biblical Sodom. Following a scenic ride along the eastern side of the Dead Sea, you will reach the Jordanian side of the Baptism site. Known as “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” (John 1:28), the site combines churches of ancient and modern times right next to the Jordan River. If time permits, consider a swim at the Dead Sea or Ma’in Hot Springs.
Today’s first stop will be one of the most important sites in early Christian history – Machaerus. Here, in 29 AD, King Herod Antipas executed John the Baptist for criticizing him. Aside from its historical significance, the site also provides breathtaking panoramas of the Dead Sea and the Judean Desert. Ascending the plains of Moab, explore Madaba‘s fantastic ancient mosaic floors, especially the famous ‘Madaba Map.’ Formed at the turn of the 7th Century AD, this exceptional mosaic floor provides the oldest known map of the Holy Land. End the day visiting Mount Nebo where, by centuries-old tradition, Moses saw the Promised Land – and died. Visit the Byzantine-era monastic complex and appreciate the spectacular panoramas of the Promised Land, the Land of Israel.
The Last day will be devoted to exploring Amman, Jordan’s capital. The Citadel, its main tour attraction, combines remains of Hercules Temple, an Umayyad-era palace, and Jordan’s National Museum. Nearby are the reconstructed Roman-era theater, Odeon, and the New Jordan Museum, where the Copper Scroll is displayed.
If there is time, consider visiting Jerash as well. Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities. Start your tour at Hadrian Triumphal Arch, marking his imperial visit to the region in 130 AD. Continue through the city’s Hippodrome, where some locals still run their horses. Passing its main gate, see Jerash’s famous over the plaza, followed by its main monuments along the city’s Cardo Maximus.
