9-Day Best of Jordan Tour from Toronto, Canada

9 Days
  • 1

Overview

Float weightlessly on the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, walk through the rose-gold canyon of the Siq until Petra's Treasury reveals itself in all its 2,000-year-old glory, and fall asleep beneath a canopy of stars in the wind-sculpted silence of Wadi Rum. This nine-day private journey through the Hashemite Kingdom traces the King's Highway through landscapes that shaped prophets, Nabataean traders, Crusader knights, and Lawrence of Arabia himself. Stand on Mount Nebo where Moses gazed toward the Promised Land, marvel at the 6th-century mosaic map inside Madaba's Saint George's Church, and glide across crimson dunes in a 4x4 as the desert turns to fire at sunset. In Amman — the White City — your private guide brings the Roman Amphitheater and Citadel to life, layer by layer. With round-trip flights from Toronto, private transfers, your own English-speaking guides at each major site, and unhurried days at a Dead Sea beachfront resort, every detail is handled so you can focus on the magic. You leave with sand in your shoes, mineral mud on your skin, and the feeling of having walked through living history.

Trip Highlights

  • Float effortlessly on the Dead Sea's mineral-rich waters
  • Walk the Siq to behold Petra's rose-red Treasury
  • Sleep beneath desert stars in a Wadi Rum camp
  • Glide across crimson dunes by 4x4 at golden hour
  • Stand on Mount Nebo where Moses surveyed the Promised Land
  • Marvel at Madaba's 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land
  • Explore Kerak Castle, a mighty Crusader stronghold
  • Trace Roman columns and Byzantine ruins atop the Amman Citadel
  • Discover Little Petra, the hidden Silk Road caravan stop

Day-by-Day Itinerary

  • Day
    1

    Depart Toronto for Jordan

    Make your own way to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) for your international flight to Amman, Jordan. Round-trip international airfare from Toronto to Amman is included in your tour package.

    We recommend arriving at the airport approximately 3 to 4 hours before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for airline check-in, baggage drop-off, passport control, and security procedures. Be sure to have your passport, travel documents, and any required visa paperwork easily accessible.

    Depart Toronto on your overnight flight bound for the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Settle in, enjoy the in-flight service, and try to rest as you cross the Atlantic toward your Middle Eastern adventure. Tomorrow, you will wake up in one of the world's most historically rich destinations, ready to begin an extraordinary journey through ancient cities, biblical landscapes, and dramatic deserts. Overnight on board.

  • Day
    2

    Arrive in Amman - Transfer to the Dead Sea

    Welcome to Jordan! Upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, our representative will meet you after immigration and customs, and assist you with a private transfer to your hotel at the Dead Sea (approximately 1 hour drive).

    The Dead Sea, sitting more than 400 meters below sea level, is the lowest point on the surface of the Earth. Its mineral-rich waters are nearly ten times saltier than the ocean, allowing visitors to effortlessly float on the surface. The surrounding landscape, with its stark cliffs and shimmering blue waters, creates a setting unlike anywhere else in the world.

    After check-in, the rest of the day is at leisure to recover from your journey. Take a dip in the buoyant waters, treat yourself to the famous mineral mud, or simply relax by your hotel pool and watch the sun set over the Judean hills in the distance. A peaceful welcome to Jordan awaits. Overnight at the Dead Sea.

  • Day
    3

    Full Day at Leisure - Dead Sea

    After breakfast at your hotel, attend a brief welcome meeting with your Tour Manager, who will share important information about the days ahead and answer any questions about your Jordan itinerary.

    The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace at the Dead Sea. Take advantage of your beachfront resort and indulge in a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. Float weightlessly in the hyper-saline waters - a sensation often compared to lying on an invisible cushion of air. The high concentration of magnesium, potassium, and bromine is renowned for its therapeutic and skin-renewing properties.

    Don't miss the opportunity to coat yourself in the famous black mineral mud, said to nourish the skin and ease muscle tension. Many resorts offer luxurious spa treatments, infinity pools overlooking the sea, and shaded lounges for ultimate relaxation. As afternoon arrives, find a quiet spot to watch the sun dip behind the mountains of the West Bank, casting golden light across the still waters. Overnight at the Dead Sea.

  • Day
    4

    Mount Nebo, Madaba & Shobak Castle - Petra

    After breakfast, around 8:30 AM, depart the Dead Sea and journey south along the historic King's Highway. Your first stop is Mount Nebo, the reputed burial site of Moses. From its summit, take in sweeping views across the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and on clear days, even Jerusalem in the distance. Visit the memorial church, which houses remarkable Byzantine mosaics.

    Continue to Madaba, the celebrated "City of Mosaics." Inside Saint George's Church, marvel at the famous 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land - the oldest surviving cartographic depiction of the region. Afterward, stop at Moses Springs and visit a traditional mosaic school and workshop, where local artisans continue this ancient craft.

    Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (own account) before continuing to Shobak Castle, a 12th-century Crusader fortress perched dramatically east of the Arabah Valley. Explore its weathered walls, underground passageways, and ancient cisterns. Later in the afternoon, continue your journey to Petra for check-in. Overnight in Petra.

  • Day
    5

    Full Day Exploring Petra

    After breakfast, around 8:00 AM, set out to explore Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This rose-red city was hand-carved into sheer rock faces by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago and remained hidden from the Western world until 1812.

    Begin your walk through the Siq, a dramatic narrow canyon over a kilometer long, where towering sandstone walls in shades of red, pink, and gold rise more than 80 meters above you. The path winds through this natural corridor before opening to reveal one of the most breathtaking sights in the world: Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), an ornate facade carved directly into the cliff face.

    A private English-speaking guide will accompany you for approximately 2 hours, sharing the rich history of the Nabataean civilization. Beyond the Treasury, discover the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, the ancient Roman Theater, and the Colonnaded Street. After your guided tour, enjoy free time to explore further at your own pace - perhaps hiking to the Monastery or the High Place of Sacrifice. Overnight in Petra.

  • Day
    6

    Little Petra & Wadi Rum Desert Adventure

    After breakfast, visit Little Petra (Siq al-Barid), a smaller but equally fascinating Nabataean site located just north of Petra. Often called the "Cold Canyon," Little Petra served as a suburb where Silk Road traders rested and stocked their caravans. Explore the temples, tombs, water cisterns carved into the rock, and rare surviving fragments of Nabataean frescoes that adorn one of the dining halls.

    Continue south to Wadi Rum, a spectacular protected desert wilderness of dry riverbeds, wind-sculpted mountains, and pastel-colored sands. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, also known as the Valley of the Moon, was the backdrop for T.E. Lawrence's adventures and inspired the iconic film Lawrence of Arabia.

    Upon arrival, board a 4x4 vehicle for an exhilarating two-hour desert excursion. Glide over crimson sand dunes, weave between towering sandstone pillars, and visit Lawrence's Spring and the famous "Seven Pillars of Wisdom" rock formation. As the sun sets, witness the desert glow in shades of orange and violet. This evening, enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner cooked in an underground oven (zarb) at your desert camp under a canopy of stars. Overnight at a Wadi Rum desert camp.

  • Day
    7

    Wadi Rum - Kerak Castle - Amman

    Wake up to the silence and beauty of the desert dawn. After breakfast at your camp, depart Wadi Rum and travel north toward Amman along the scenic King's Highway, one of the oldest continuously used roads in the world.

    Mid-morning, arrive at Kerak Castle, one of the largest and most impressive Crusader fortresses in the Levant. Built in the 1140s under King Fulk of Jerusalem, this imposing stronghold sits on a high plateau commanding sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. Tour the castle's stone-vaulted halls, dark passageways, underground galleries, and defensive towers, learning about its strategic role during the Crusader period and the dramatic siege by Saladin in 1183.

    Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (own account) before continuing your journey northward through the rugged landscapes of central Jordan. Around late afternoon, arrive in Amman, Jordan's vibrant capital. After hotel check-in, the evening is at leisure - perhaps stroll through Rainbow Street or sample Jordanian cuisine at one of the city's renowned restaurants. Overnight in Amman.

  • Day
    8

    Amman City Tour

    After breakfast, around 9:00 AM, set off on a guided city tour of Amman, often called the "White City" thanks to the white limestone used throughout much of its architecture. The capital seamlessly blends ancient ruins with a modern, cosmopolitan rhythm.

    Begin at the Roman Amphitheater, a magnificently preserved 6,000-seat theater built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius. Carved into the hillside, it remains a venue for cultural events to this day. Continue to the ancient Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal'a), perched atop the city's highest hill. A private English-speaking guide will accompany you here for approximately 45 minutes, sharing insights into the site's layered history. Explore the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace complex, and the Byzantine Church, with panoramic views over downtown Amman.

    After the tour, the rest of the day is at leisure. Visit the colorful souks of downtown, sample sweet kunafa at the legendary Habibah Sweets, or explore the trendy galleries and cafes of Jabal Amman. A perfect conclusion to your Jordanian journey. Overnight in Amman.

  • Day
    9

    Depart Amman for Toronto

    After breakfast, enjoy any final moments in Jordan before your departure. Depending on your flight time, you may have free time for last-minute shopping at one of Amman's craft markets - Jordan is famous for its hand-blown glass, olive wood carvings, embroidered textiles, and Dead Sea cosmetics.

    At the appropriate time, our representative will collect you from your hotel for a private transfer to Queen Alia International Airport for your included return flight to Toronto. As you fly home, you will carry with you memories of floating in the Dead Sea, walking through the Siq to behold the Treasury, sleeping under desert stars in Wadi Rum, and standing where Moses once gazed upon the Promised Land.

    This concludes your 9-day Best of Jordan tour from Toronto, Canada. We hope your journey has left you with a deep appreciation for Jordan's extraordinary heritage, landscapes, and warm hospitality. Safe travels home!

    End of tour services.

Inclusions:

  • Round-trip international airfare from Toronto, Canada to Amman, Jordan
  • 6 nights accommodation in 4-star hotels
  • 1 night accommodation in a Wadi Rum desert camp
  • Daily breakfast from Day 3 through Day 9 (7 breakfasts total)
  • 1 traditional Bedouin dinner at the Wadi Rum desert camp
  • Private arrival and departure airport transfers in Jordan
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle with English-speaking driver throughout
  • Sightseeing tours as detailed in the itinerary
  • Private English-speaking guide at the Amman Citadel (approximately 45 minutes)
  • Private English-speaking guide in Petra (approximately 2 hours)
  • 4x4 desert excursion in Wadi Rum (approximately 2 hours)
  • All hotel taxes and service charges

Exclusions:

  • Airport transfers within Canada
  • Domestic or connecting flights within Canada
  • Jordan visa fee, if applicable
  • Lunches throughout the tour
  • Dinners, except the included dinner at the Wadi Rum desert camp
  • Drinks during meals
  • Seat selection, excess baggage fees, or airline upgrades
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel staff, and camp staff
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs
  • Any services not specifically mentioned as included

Important Information

  • A Jordan visa is required for most travelers and can typically be obtained on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport, or pre-arranged through the Jordan Pass program (which also covers entrance to Petra and many other sites - we highly recommend purchasing it before arrival).
  • Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are essential. Petra involves several kilometers of walking on uneven ground, sand, and stone steps. Lightweight hiking shoes are ideal.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and conservative areas. Women should cover shoulders and knees; a light scarf is useful for entering churches and mosques.
  • Bring sun protection: a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle. Jordan's sun is strong year-round, especially in the desert.
  • At the Dead Sea, do not shave on the day you swim and avoid getting water in your eyes - the salt concentration causes intense stinging. Reef-safe water shoes are recommended due to sharp salt crystals.
  • Desert nights in Wadi Rum can be cold, even in summer. Pack a warm layer for the evening at the camp. Camp accommodations are basic but comfortable, with shared or private bathroom facilities depending on your tent category.
  • 4x4 vehicles in Wadi Rum are organized and operated by local Bedouin community members. Vehicle conditions may vary depending on the owner, but all are safe and capable of desert terrain.
  • Tipping is customary in Jordan. As a guideline, allow approximately USD 5-10 per day for your driver and USD 10-15 per day for site guides, plus small tips for hotel and camp staff.

FAQs

Is international airfare from Toronto really included in this tour?

Yes, round-trip international economy-class airfare from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Queen Alia International Airport in Amman is included in your tour package. Specific airline and routing will be confirmed at the time of booking. Seat selection, baggage upgrades, and class upgrades are not included.

Do I need a visa to visit Jordan as a Canadian citizen?

Yes, Canadian citizens require a visa to enter Jordan. A single-entry visa can be obtained on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport. We strongly recommend purchasing the Jordan Pass online before your trip - it includes the visa fee, entrance to Petra, and over 40 other attractions, often resulting in significant savings.

What is the best time of year to visit Jordan?

The best times to visit Jordan are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are mild and pleasant for sightseeing. Summer (June to August) can be very hot, especially in Petra and Wadi Rum, while winter (December to February) is cooler and occasionally rainy in Amman.

How physically demanding is the Petra visit?

Petra requires a fair amount of walking - the route from the visitor center to the Treasury alone is about 2 kilometers each way, mostly on a gentle downhill slope through the Siq. Exploring further sites like the Monastery involves additional uphill hiking. Horse, donkey, and camel rides are available for those who prefer not to walk the full distance (not included in the tour price).

What are the desert camp accommodations like in Wadi Rum?

Your overnight stay in Wadi Rum is at a traditional-style Bedouin camp with comfortable tents featuring real beds, linens, and en-suite or shared bathroom facilities depending on the camp category. Dinner is typically a traditional zarb meal cooked in an underground oven, served in a communal Bedouin-style tent. The experience is rustic but comfortable and unforgettable.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers, couples, or families?

Yes, this is a private tour, meaning it is operated exclusively for you and your travel companions. It works wonderfully for solo travelers, couples, families, and small groups of friends. Single supplements apply for solo travelers, and the pace can be slightly adjusted to suit your preferences.

Is it safe to travel in Jordan?

Jordan is widely regarded as one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the Middle East. Tourists are warmly received throughout the country, and the government places strong emphasis on visitor security at all major sites. As with any international travel, we recommend monitoring your government's travel advisories and obtaining comprehensive travel insurance.

Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes, since this is a private tour, the itinerary can be customized to match your interests, pace, and preferences. You may wish to add an extra night in Petra, include Jerash in the north, extend your stay in Amman, or upgrade your hotel category. Please contact our travel consultants to tailor the perfect Jordan experience for you.