An in depth personal tour of Jordan and Syria. The first week follows the same itinerary as the Desert Kingdoms with visits to Jerash, Petra and Wadi Rum, while the second concentrates on the marvellous sights of Syria. You will discover Damascus, Palmyra, Krak des Chevaliers and the Mediterranean coastline.

 Itinerary

Day 1: Amman.

On arrival transfer to your hotel and overnight.

Day 2: Amman.

Full day excursion visiting the historic sights of Amman and surrounding area. We visit the Roman Site of Jerash and then continue our tour to the amazing site of Umm Qais, founded by the Greeks with its Byzantine Basilica Terrace. (B)

Day 3: Amman - Petra.

Driving south, we join the Kings' Highway, one of the oldest roads in the world, to Mount Nebo, where we find the tomb of Moses. Continuing our journey we visit the small town of Madaba with the Christian church of St George, then climb to the rocky pinnacle of El Kerak Crusader Castle. From the top we are rewarded with spectacular views of the sweeping valleys. Continue to Petra. (B(

Day 4: Petra.

Full day guided tour of Petra, the "Rose Red City". Starting with the narrow siq (gorge), this sheer canyon is the formidable entrance to one of the world's most amazing archaeological wonders. If you like, you can take a ride on horseback through the Siq. We have two full days to explore this ancient Nabatean City, Treasury, Tombs, Theatre, Colour Caves and Monastery. (B)

Day 5: Petra.

Free day to continue exploring the wonders of Petra. (B)

Day 6: Petra - Wadi Run - Aqaba.

Depart by jeep to Wadi Rum. Exploring the desert and its main sites, we discover not only history, but also the unique landscapes of Wadi Rum as we take 4WD vehicles through the desert surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs. Continue to Aqaba on the shores of the Red Sea. (B(

Day 7: Aqaba.

A free day in Aqaba to relax, snorkel or enjoy a swim in the Red Sea. (B)

Day 8: Aqaba - Dead Sea - Amman.

Travel north to the Dead Sea, the lowest inhabited point on earth and surrounded by barren mountains. You might like to take a swim in the Dead Sea before finally travelling back to Jordan's capital Amman. (B)

Day 9: Amman - Damascus.

Driving north we cross the border into Syria. Visit the black basalt Roman Theatre at Bosra. Continue to Damascus. (B(

Day 10: Damascus.

City tour of Syria's capital, Damascus. (B(

Day 11: Damascus - Palmyra.

Drive to Palmyra and visit this enormous city, the stronghold of the great Arab Queen Zenobia. (B(

Day 12: Palmyra - Krak des Chevaliers - Latakia.

Early start with a scenic drive through the Syrian Desert and fertile plains to Krak des Chevaliers. Drive through Tartus to Latakia on the Mediterranean where we stay overnight. (B(

Day 13: Latakia - Aleppo.

Drive North to Aleppo and on route visit Saladin's Castle. In the afternoon we have time to enjoy the site of Serjilla. Continue to Aleppo. (B(

Day 14: Aleppo.

Morning city tour. Visits include the Citadel, Souks, and Great Mosque in the heart of the old city. Afternoon free to explore and shop. (B(

Day 15: Aleppo - St Simeon's.

The highlight today is the excursion to St. Simeon's Monastery, located in a splendid rural setting. Overnight in Aleppo. (B(

Day 16: Aleppo - airport.

flight returning to home. (B(