Petra Experience - Independent

Ahlan Wa Sahlan! Welcome to Jordan. This Petra Independent Experience starts at 10am this morning. You will be picked up from the Grand Palace Hotel, or from your alternate hotel (if advised prior to departure) before departing for Mt Nebo (approximately 1.5 hours). Explore this sanctuary, view the remarkable mosaics of the 4th century church, and enjoying the amazing views – which, on a clear day, extend all the way to Israel – before travelling on to the Dead Sea (approximately 30 minutes). Named for the dearth of life in its waters, the Dead Sea is actually an extremely saline lake, running 67 kilometres long and 18 kilometres wide at its widest point. It lies in the Jordan Rift Valley with Israel on its west bank. A float in the Dead Sea is a must for any trip to Jordan. Here at the lowest point on Earth (423 metres below sea level) the water is seven times saltier than a normal ocean at 30% salinity. The Dead Sea is the second saltiest body of water in the world after Lake Asal in Djibouti. When swimming this means you are extremely buoyant and seem to float on top of the water rather than in it. Maybe take a handful of the shoreline’s mud and slick it over your body on the way back in – it’s full of nutrient-rich natural minerals and will leave your skin feeling luxurious. You’ll stop at a private beach with pools and a gentle slope to the water. Towels are available for hire. Don't forget to pack your swimwear for today! After a hearty buffet lunch, continue on to the mountains of Petra where you’ll spend the night.

Petra is justifiably on most people’s list of ‘must-visit’ places. It is the jewel of Jordan, the lost city of the biblical Nabateans, an impressive series of tombs and dwellings hidden behind ornate façades carved directly into the rock. Dating back to the 6th century BC, the site was lost to Western minds until it was rediscovered in 1812 by a Swiss explorer. The iconic Petra view – the Treasury's glorious façade, glimpsed from the narrow cleft known as the Siq – is arguably the single most striking sight of the entire region. The first taste of this exquisite craftsmanship among such stark scenery is a moment that manages to be both eagerly anticipated and also an almost surreal surprise. The Siq leads through the rock and is sometimes only a few metres wide, with walls soaring up to 180 metres on either side, and it is impossible not to imagine the armies and traders who made their way down here in the ancient times. Petra's greatest surprise, however, is its size. With your guide you will explore the old Roman road, amphitheatre and several old tombs. If you are feeling energetic, you can also take the 800 steps up to the Monastery, from where you will have a magnificent view of the entire site. This is a memorable day exploring a truly extraordinary destination, a highlight of any trip. The evening is free to enjoy dinner in one of the many restaurants in the village.

Notes: The Petra site is huge and it takes at least a full day of walking to fully appreciate all of its attractions. Please also note that when entering Petra a complimentary horse ride is included in the ticket price from the entrance point of Petra down to the Siq. Peregrine recommends passengers do not take this option due to the safety and insurance liability involved.

Today your Petra pass remains valid and you are free to explore more of the ancient city. You must check out of your hotel by 10am but you can store your luggage at reception while you explore. After time spent in the ancient world, you’ll return to the present with a transfer back to Amman (approximately 5 hours). You will arrive back to the Grand Palace Hotel in Amman at approximately 4pm. Alternatively, if you would prefer to be dropped off at a different hotel in Amman or at the airport, please speak to your leader and this can be arranged.

Notes: Accommodation is not included tonight. If you would like to book additional post-trip accommodation please speak to your agent at time of booking. If you would like to return to Amman earlier for a flight departure please also mention this at time of booking.