This 12-day Middle Eastern vacation begins in Amman, the Jordanian capital and home to some of the most impressive Roman ruins in the Middle East, including the Citadel that overlooks the city from the hillside. Explore Greco-Roman ruins and medieval castles in Jerash and Ajloun before connecting to the Dead Sea to float in its salty waters. More historic landmarks await in Madaba, Kerak, and Mt. Nebo, where a memorial to Moses lies on the spot where he gazed into the Holy Land over the River Jordan. Onwards to Petra, the rock-hewn city built by the Nabataean civilization over two millennia ago. After unlocking some of its fascinating history, continue to the iconic desert stretches of Wadi Rum, famous for their inclusion in Lawrence of Arabia and Dune.
Cross the border into Saudi Arabia and pass through the northern gateway city of Tabuk, an important waystation for pilgrims travelling to Makkah and Madinah. Head into the desert to explore Wadi Disash, Saudi’s answer to Wadi Rum, before continuing to the oasis city of AlUla, where you’ll spot Elephant Rock and other natural landmarks. Spend a day exploring the rock-hewn Nabataean settlement of Hegra, the southern sister settlement to Petra, and as beautiful an artistic creation. Connect south to the holy city of Madinah, the second-holiest city in Islam and resting place of the Prophet Muhammad, which millions of pilgrims visit each year. Onwards to Jeddah, the port city along the Red Sea and arguably the most liberal centre in the nation. Cap off your trip to Saudi Arabia with a tour of some of the city’s cultural establishments, including the seaside fish market and the old town of Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.