Ancient Cultures Uncovered: Jordan & Oman

Join us on this  exquisite experience, Ancient Cultures Uncovered:  Jordan & Oman – 18 days of immersion into ancient landscapes, history and traditions through to the cultures of today.

This journey is a combination of two very different countries:  Jordan, the home of Petra, Wadi Rum, the capital of Amman and where you start by exploring the ancient land where prophets once roamed.   Jordan is home to biblical landmarks, beautiful architecture, and the famed Dead Sea.

Oman combines wild wadis, an untouched coastline, spectacular deserts, 16th century forts and castles and dramatic mountain scenery.  An unspoilt and largely unexplored destination, Oman is the best kept secret in the Middle East.

It is also one of the oldest civilisations in the Arabian Peninsula. Combining a fascinating ancient heritage with all the trappings of modernity, stunning accommodation and year-round sunshine:  Oman is a surprising and unspoiled destination.

For those who  love a touch of retail therapy, there is an optional stopover in Dubai on the way home to fill that suitcase with the latest fashion and enjoy the truly modern version of today’s Middle East!

Combining  luxury accommodation, nights at desert camps,  getting up close and personal with local women, numerous adventures and immersion into a culture so different to your every day life – you don’t want to miss this!

If you are intrigued by ancient cultures, dramatic scenery and incredible history then this is the tour for you.

Ask us for details here on this limited departure.  Fully escorted by Travelling Divas Founder, Andrea Powis, you will love what you uncover during this exquisite adventure.  Ask us for details here!

GETTING THERE:  We are recommending using Qatar Airways or Emirates due the amount of flights available.  We will advise the flight on Oman Air for your flight bookings to ensure we are all on the same flight!

Tour Price*:  USD$10,995 per person on a twin share basis.  Single supplement USD$4695 per person

*(Note: there is a flight required from Amman-Muscat, which can be purchased as part of your international ticket or quoted as a separate fare which we will organise on your behalf)

Tour Starts: Amman

Tour Finishes: Muscat

Tour Dates: 08 – 25 February 2024

PRICE INCLUDES:

• Fully escorted from Amman by Andrea Powis, Founder Travelling Divas
• Airport transfers on arrival into Amman and on departure from Muscat
• 2 nights’ 5-star Deluxe King Room accommodation, The St. Regis, Amman
• 2 night’s 5-star Superior Room accommodation, Movenpick Nabatean Castle Hotel
• 1 night’s luxury tented accommodation, Palmera Camp Wadi Rum
• 1 night’s 5-star Superior Room accommodation, Movenpick Resort & Residence Aqaba
• 2 nights’  5-star Superior Sea View Room accommodation, Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea
• 5 nights’ 5-star  Wonderful Room accommodation, W Hotel Muscat
• 1 night’s luxury eco-tented accommodation, Magic-Arabia Fixed Camp Wahiba
• 2 nights’ 5-star Mountain View Room accommodation, Alila Jebal Akhdar
• 1 night’s 4-star Standard Room accommodation, Golden Tulip Nizwa
• Breakfast daily
• A total of 21 main meals as detailed in the itinerary
• Private English speaking Driver/Guide throughout
• All activities & private touring as detailed in the itinerary
• Entry fees to the sites mentioned in the itinerary
• Modern, air-conditioned transportation throughout
• 4 x 4 transport as detailed
• Local government taxes and VAT

NOT INCLUDED:

Airfares unless stated in the itinerary; items of a personal nature; phone calls; passport and visas (if applicable); entry or departure fees charged at the airport; laundry or tips. Any transport outside of included transfers and activities; excess baggage; security and additional government taxes not covered already; travel insurance. Meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary; beverages unless specifically described. Optional excursions or activities that may be offered but are not included in the tour price. Any COVID required testing or documentation required by the countries of entry

FEBRUARY 2024

Day 1 – Thursday 08:  Welcome to Jordan…

Marhaba, and welcome to Jordan. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel, The St. Regis. Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a fascinating city of contrasts – a unique blend of old and new, ideally situated on a hilly area between the desert and the fertile Jordan Valley.

Check-in, relax until we meet for a welcome drink and dinner this evening.

Overnight Accommodation:  The St. Regis

Included Meals:  Dinner

Day 2 – Friday 09:   Exploring Amman, its ancient surround & lunch with some local ladies…

Travel a short distance north to Jerash, an extraordinarily well-preserved ancient city, acknowledged to be one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. Explore the iconic temple of Artemis at the highest point of the city, the long colonnaded street, with its original stone paving, and the monumental Hadrian’s Arch built to celebrate a visit by the emperor himself – all which were hidden for centuries in the sand before being excavated and restored some 70 years ago.

Continue to the Iraq Al-Amir Women’s Cooperative Society, founded in 1993 by Queen Noor’s foundation, where you have lunch. The cooperative was established to teach women the skills of weaving, paperwork, pottery and other handicrafts. The idea was to preserve the region’s unique architectural heritage and to create more jobs for women, allowing them to contribute to their society. Meet the women over a traditionally brewed coffee, hear their stories and learn about their handmade fabrics, naturally produced soaps, pottery and ceramics, paper-making and cooking.

Later return to the modern, bustling capital. Venture up to the citadel, situated on one of the seven hills that originally made up Amman, and then spend time wandering through the National Archaeological Museum, home to a collection of artifacts which date from prehistoric times to the 15th century. Take a seat in the magnificently restored 6,000 seat Roman Amphitheatre built during the reign of Antonius Pius in 138-161 CE.

Transfer back to the hotel and enjoy dinner in house this evening.

Overnight Accommodation:  The St. Regis

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 – Saturday 10: Time to follow Moses, a mosaic class and then to Petra we go…

Today transfer by private vehicle from Amman to Petra stopping en route at Mount Nebo and Madaba.

Mount Nebo is the mountain where Moses was allowed to see the Holy Land…but not allowed to enter it. Nowadays the mountain is a memorial site. Here you will find the ‘Church of Moses’, built by the first Christians. Ever since the first days of Christianity this mountain has been a holy place and a destination for pilgrimage. Like Moses, you can have a great view over Jordan, the Dead Sea and Israel.

Continue to Madaba, the ‘City of Mosaics’, situated on an archaeological site with more than 4,000 years of history buried beneath it. The quality of mosaic flooring has made Madaba one of the most prominent cities in the world for mosaics. St. George’s Church houses a world-famous mosaic floor depicting a large mosaic map of Palestine and at its centre, a detailed map of Jerusalem as it was during the sixth century AD. Enjoy a mosaic class and lunch with a local family – fabulous!

After lunch, continue to Shobak Castle.  Built in 1115, it was the first of many fortifications built beyond the Jordan by King Baldwin I of Jerusalem to guard the road from Egypt to Damascus. It successfully resisted a number of sieges until it fell to Saladin’s troops in 1189. Petra where you will check-in and enjoy dinner, before hitting the pillow to get ready for an exciting day tomorrow.

Then to our hotel for tonight and dinner in-house!

Overnight Accommodation:  Movenpick Nabatean Castle

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – Sunday 11:  To Petra you go, and tonight you cook…

Enter on horseback (your very own Indiana Jones moment) and then it is time to explore the bucket-list ‘Rose-Red City’, one of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. Established as the capital of the ancient Nabataeans, it was an important stop on the caravan route between Asia, Arabia and Europe. Discover tombs, temples and exquisite monuments hewn out of the surrounding mountains. Whilst the entire site is extraordinary, the most well-known structures include the Treasury, accessed through the narrow ‘siq’ – a naturally occurring geological rift between the mountains, the Roman Theatre, the Corinthian and Palace Tombs and the Roman Road.

Then late this afternoon return to the hotel, freshen up and it’s time for a cooking class at the Petra Kitchen.  You will work alongside local chefs to prepare dishes found on a typical family’s table using fresh ingredients, and enjoy a fab cultural immersion.

Overnight Accommodation:  Movenpick Nabatean Castle

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 – Monday 12:  Little Petra, Beidah and Wadi Rum…

This morning the adventure continues with our desert escape!  A night of ‘martian; tents and star gazing in the desert.

You transfer to Little Petra where you will walk through an 8,000 year old excavated stone age villages at Beidah and Basta and wander among the ruins of settlements of the biblical Edomites, and explore the sprawling remains of the Roman legionary fortress at Udruh,

Then it is time to continue to Wadi Rum on your 4×4 adventure in a local Bedouin Jeep!  A 2 hour tour where you will be immersed into the desert and its awesome moon-like landscape; where the film “Lawrence of Arabia” was shot, and where you can shoot so many selfie’s you will not know what to do with yourself…..

This evening your will overnight in your every own ‘martian’ tent in the desert and after dinner, enjoy star gazing with a local expert – divine!

Overnight Accommodation:  Palmera Camp Wadi Rum

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6 – Tuesday 13:  To Aqaba you go…

This morning after breakfast you will transfer from Wadi Rum to Aqaba, Jordan’s only Seaport for the country, a coastal town in the far south of Jordan, with its’ spectacular Red Sea setting – purple coloured mountains and sandy beaches.  You have an afternoon at leisure to enjoy this gorgeous resort and for those who like to dive – you can!

Dinner at the hotel.

Overnight Accommodation:  Movenpick Resort & Residences

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 – Wednesday 14:  In the footsteps of Jesus & John the Baptist, then to the Dead Sea…

This morning you travel via Araba road to visit Bethany which is the the site of John the Baptist’s settlement at “Bethany Beyond the Jordan”, where Jesus was baptised, long known from the Bible (John 1:28 and 10:40) and from Byzantine and medieval texts.

Continue your journey to the lowest point on the earth’s surface, the Dead Sea, located in the Jordan Rift Valley. At more than 400m below sea level, it is known for its highly salty waters. Spend time in arguably the most luxurious resort on the Dead Sea.

Leisurely afternoon for swimming and floating in the Dead Sea is a must.

Overnight Accommodation:  Kempinski Hotel Ishtar

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 – Thursday 15:  A day to do what you like…

Today is all about you and whatever you feel like doing.  Luxuriate, ruminate and meditate if you want, or just hang by the pool and indulge in a cocktail or 3.  You’ve earned it!

Our farewell Jordan dinner this evening is in the beautiful Rehan Lebanese Restaurant.  Delightful!

Overnight Accommodation:  Kempinski Hotel Ishtar

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9 – Friday 16:  To Oman you go…

This morning time for breakfast, checkout and to Oman we go.

Flight details to be confirmed.  But expect a late night arrival into Muscat and straight to bed!

Welcome to the Omani capital, and a warm welcome where you are with a VIP arrival through customs, immigration and baggage collection.  Transfer to your luxury accommodation. Located on the Arabian Peninsula, Muscat has a rich and vibrant culture and is a remarkably laid-back capital city with a friendly atmosphere. The rest of the day is yours to explore.

Overnight Accommodation:  W Hotel Muscat

Included Meals:  Breakfast

Day 10 – Saturday 17:  Dolphins, snorkelling, picnicking and more…

Today is a day to explore the beautiful coastline of Oman.

A morning transfer to the marina to board your boat for some amazing dolphin watching followed by a snorkelling and swimming session.  Check out the local marine life and if you’re very lucky, you might just spot a few turtles!

Then its time to picnic on the secluded beach and enjoy some downtime  before heading back along the breathtaking coastline, to meet your transfer back to the hotel.

This evening, enjoy dinner at Omani House and experience the authentic hospitality of Omanis.

Overnight Accommodation:  W Hotel Muscat

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

Day 11 – Sunday 18:  The city of Muscat…

Today you will enjoy a full-day tour of the elegant city of Muscat with your private guide.

Tour the exquisite Royal Opera House, combining world class acoustics with Middle Eastern elegance. Stroll around the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a stunning example of contemporary Islamic architecture. It is the only mosque in Oman open to non-Muslims. From its minarets, large golden dome, arches, engraved walls, decorated interior, unique lamps and central crystal chandelier, the mosque is an architectural wonder.

The best way to understand a culture is through its cooking and sharing food with locals.  For lunch today, enjoy cooking with local Sidab women, learning about their traditions. You will cook delicious Omani food and have the opportunity to enjoy lunch with the local women – a rare opportunity.

Next, you stop for a photo opportunity at Al Alam palace, the palace of the Sultan, before continuing on to admire the exterior of two Portuguese forts, Mirani and Jalali.

You will then spend time in the beautiful National Museum,  Oman’s flagship cultural institution, showcasing the Sultanate’s cultural heritage from the earliest evidence of human settlement in the Oman Peninsula through to the present day.

Finally, retail therapy time at the Muttrah Souq, which is one of the oldest markets in Oman, dating back about two hundred years. Here you can shop for artefacts, antiques, traditional textiles, beautiful scarves, cashmere and jewellery in the bustling lanes of the traditional Arabian market.

Then return to the hotel for some well deserved r’n’r before a relaxed dinner in-house this evening.

Overnight Accommodation:  W Hotel Muscat

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12 – Monday 19:  Wadi (Valley) & Desert time…

This morning post breakfast it is time to leave the W and head to new horizons.

Your adventure starts with an off-road crossing of Wadi Al Arbeieen, one of Oman’s most beautiful wadis (valleys). The wadi is located around 90 minutes outside of Muscat and provides nature’s ultimate soundtrack, the sounds of running water, birds and the wind funnelling through the narrow channels.

Then continue to Wadi Tiwi, a spectacularly deep and narrow gorge carved out of the mountains, running between towering cliffs right
down to the sea. The wadi is famous for its old traditional villages surrounded by lush plantations of date and banana.  Travel to Sur, one of the few places that still produces traditional wooden dhows and watch the craftsmen as they go about their highly skilled work.

Arrival at the entrance of Wahiba Sands (also known as Sharqiya Sands). The longitudinal dunes stretch 200 km long and 100 km
wide until the Arabian Sea and have been home to the Bedouin for 7,000 years. After gently driving through the sand dunes to reach the camp you will venture up the high dunes and witness the unforgettable desert sunset with a glass of champagne.

Enjoy a delicious dinner and a great night’s sleep in the silence of the desert, in your very own luxury eco tent.

Overnight Accommodation:  Wahiba Desert Camp

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 – Tuesday 20:  To the spectacular mountains…

After breakfast you leave the delights of the desert to head to one of the most spectacular mountain regions you will ever encounter.

First, travel through Wadi Bani Khalid, a mountain area of small villages and waterfalls. The wadi is in the Al Sharqiyah Region and has several water pools as well as a spring that keeps water flowing inside the wadi all year long.  The pools are cool, deep and absolutely stunning. Feel free to plunge in and experience the crystal-clear waters.

Then you will discover Jebel Akhdar (the green mountain). It is neither green nor a single mountain, but a large grey-brown massif covering more than 1,800 square km with several peaks, rising to nearly 3,050 metres. The mountain range is dotted with Omani villages and in
many areas, villagers have created terraces for growing crops. Wadi Bani Habib is one of several interesting villages located on the massive plateau. Jebel Akhdar is also famous for rose water distillation. Of the thousands of varieties of rose, only a few produce the fragrant oil required to make rosewater, ‘damascina’ being one of the most famous of this prized varieties (March/April).

Your final destination today is a serene eco-resort at Jebel Akhdar, built to blend seamlessly into its rugged surroundings.

Overnight Accommodation:  Alila Jebel Akhdar

Meals Included:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 – Wednesday 21:  Exploring Jebel Akhdar…

This morning ensure you enjoy a good breakfast as today you are heading into the great outdoors to explore.

Our walk starts from the wadi (dry waterway) a few minutes from the resort, offering a close look at the natural wadi system, the
various bushes and trees found in this fertile part of the mountain, and the various rock formations. Explore the region with your guide and discover our local ‘mirage’, the village of Sarab, the nearest abandoned village to the resort.   Then head back to the resort for an afternoon at leisure.

Enjoy lunch at your own pace, and maybe some spa time?

Late in the afternoon a private yoga and stretching class overlooking the majestic mountains, to move any travel kinks and stretch tired limbs after this morning’s walk.

Dinner at leisure this evening.

Overnight Accommodation: Alila Jebel Akhdar

Meals Included:  Breakfast

Day 15 – Thursday 22:  To Nizwa, the old capital of Oman…

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and checkout as it is time to take a step back into history.

Enjoy a beautiful photo opportunity at Birkat Al Mouz, one of the most famous villages lying in ruins, in Oman. With a large banana plantation and the scenic surroundings, the site is also home to the old falaj irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You then visit Jibrin castle, consisting of five floors and containing 55 rooms. This castle is distinguished by the inscriptions and frescoes that adorn its rooms. The castle’s ceilings are decorated with paintings and Islamic inscriptions, and its doors are beautifully carved, with a falaj running through the middle of the castle.

Another great photo opportunity of the massive Bahla fort (UNESCO site).  It was built in the third millennium BC. The length of its south facade is about 112 metres, while its eastern facade is about 114 metres.

You will then arrive into Nizwa, the former capital of Oman where you will visit the legendary Nizwa Fort at the foot of the Western Hajar mountains. In the ninth century, a stronghold was built to protect the town from marauding forces, and Nizwa Fort with its imposing sandstone structure has been added to and adapted ever since. Search out the metal spikes, booby traps and ‘murder holes’ (through which boiling hot date syrup was poured on to intruders) that made Nizwa so impenetrable. Make your way to the rooftop, where dozens of cannons would have once stood, for excellent views of the city.

In the bustling souq nearby you will have a chance to find local products such as Omani daggers (Khanjar), copper, silver jewellery and handicrafts for sale!

Dinner at leisure tonight.

Overnight Accommodation:  Golden Tulip Nizwa

Meals Included:  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 16 – Friday 23:   Back to the future…

Today is a big travel day, so after breakfast check out and depart and finish your exploration of the past as we head back to Muscat.

Start with a morning visit to the livestock market in Nizwa, one of the oldest in the country.  Every Friday, farmers from around the country flock to the city, bringing with them their cattle, goats and camels for selling to the locals.

We then depart and visit the village of Al Hamra, one of the best-preserved old towns in the country and the home of the Bait Al Safa living museum, formerly a royal residence and today, a trove of archaeological and architectural treasures. Take a stroll in between the old abandoned buildings and mud houses. Visit the museum and learn about the Omani traditions with men and women demonstrating ancient practices.

Begin the off-road crossing of Wadi Bani Awf (3 hours), a spectacular mountain road. You will see small villages on the way and enjoy a stop to admire the panoramic view of Snake Canyon.   The final stop today is at Bilad Sayt, a fairytale-like village typical of the Arabian settlements of the past and one of the most picturesque villages in Oman.

We head out of the past and back to the future as you arrive back into Muscat and the W Hotel.

Overnight Accommodation:  W Hotel

Meals Included:  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 17 – Saturday 24:  A day to explore your own Muscat…

Today is your last full day in this elegant city.  It is a chance to wind right down, enjoy some pool time, spa time and pretty much do what you wish.

For those who want to do more we can organise a trip back to the Souq for last minute shopping, a visit to Amouage Visitors’ Centre where the Omani perfume that is world famous, is made (it is a splurge but is the most divine perfume).  Or if there is something else you want to do you just let us know and it can be arranged.

This evening our farewell dinner is at the W, and we will start drinks in their fabulous lounge with a view (and a swing perhaps – yep not kidding!)

Overnight Accommodation: Hotel W

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 18 – Sunday 25:  Time to say farewell…

Depending on your flight schedule (it can be an early start) you will be transferred to the airport by private driver.  For those going home thank you.  For some you might want to join me in Dubai for a little shopping spree?  Hope so – such a lovely way to spend any leftover holiday funds!

Thank you for a great time and see you again soon.  Bon voyage!

Meals Included:  Breakfast

Amman:

The St Regis Amman:

Embracing the sophistication and timeless heritage of the world-famous St. Regis New York, The St. Regis Amman, an established luxury hotel in Jordan’s capital city. Showcasing a 5th Circle location in the district of Abdoun, you are moments away from noteworthy attractions in Amman. This 5-star hotel provides a locally inspired take on established traditions, with an extensive art collection composed of works from local artists and the surrounding Levant, Jordan, area, from the azure waters of the Red Sea to the sculpted rose stones of Petra. The 258 hotel rooms, suites, and serviced apartments capture the essence of comfort, with refined decor, top-quality amenities and luxury butler service. 

Petra:

Movenpick Nabatean Castle:

Explore the magnificent Red Rose City of Petra from an elevated fortress-style hotel in the rolling hills of the captivating Rift Valley. Mövenpick Nabatean Castle 5-star Hotel is only a 10-minute drive from the historic site of Petra. Enjoy your stay in one of the 90 renovated hotel rooms and suites, with balconies and terraces that face out across the striking landscape.

Wadi Rum:

Palmera Camp:

Offering mountain views, Palmera Camp Wadi Rum  offers accommodation, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a shared lounge, a terrace, a restaurant and barbecue facilities.

There is a private bathroom with bidet in every tent, along with free toiletries, slippers and bathrobes.  A buffet, à la carte or continental breakfast is available every morning at the property.  Guests at the luxury tent can enjoy billiards on site, or hiking in the surroundings.

Aqaba:

Movenpick Resort & Residences:

The Movenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba is located in the centre of Aqaba Jordan, with a magnificent view of the Red Sea and coloured mountains, providing guests direct access to their own private beach. This luxury hotel is located near the archaeological sites of the Islamic city of Ayla.

The hotel features a mix of European and Arabesque designs, reflecting a homely feeling. The resort combines grandeur, 5 star luxury and welcoming hospitality.

The resort’s four swimming pools are guaranteed to keep you cool in the hot temperatures of Aqaba. Unwind at our adult lap pool or stay fit in the gym.

The Dead Sea:

Kempinski Hotel Ishtar:

In a region unlike any other, hidden away for centuries in the cradle of time and at 434 metres below sea level, where nature and history have so wonderfully conspired, is the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea. Perceived as one of the natural wonders of the world, with its spectacular and spiritual landscape, richest sources of natural minerals and ozone rich air which complement its therapeutic waters, the Dead Sea is believed to have been home to some biblical cities and recognised by Cleopatra as the oldest natural spa.

Muscat:

The W Muscat:

W Muscat is a luxury beachfront hotel and resort situated in the upbeat Shatti Al Qurum beachfront, offering an insider access to what’s up and coming in the city. Step inside one of the 279 luxury hotel rooms and suites where Omani heritage meets contemporary design. The hotel offers rooms boasting breathtaking views of azure waters of the Gulf of Oman. Six tantalising restaurants offer an exciting experience for every foodie.