Jordan | Trek in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia | Wadi Rum – Aqaba – Petra

Arrive in Amman from the UK and be greeted at the airport for a convenient transfer to Madaba. If arriving late or with a group, please inform us in advance. The journey to Madaba takes about 30 minutes. Check-in at the 3* Hotel in Madaba.

Some background information:
One of the city's most famous attractions is the Madaba Map, a mosaic map of the Holy Land dating back to the 6th century AD. The map is located in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George and is one of the oldest surviving maps of the region. The Arab Revolt, which began in 1916, sought to end Ottoman rule in the Arab territories and establish independent Arab states. The revolt was supported by the British, who promised Arab leaders independence in exchange for their assistance against the Ottomans. The revolt involved various tribes and guerrilla fighters, including those from present-day Jordan.

As World War I progressed, British forces gained control over parts of the Ottoman territories, including Transjordan. Following the war, the Ottoman Empire collapsed, and the League of Nations granted Britain a mandate over the territory of Transjordan, which later became the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in 1946.

Start your day with an early breakfast before heading to Wadi Rum. Wadi Mujib/ Kerak/ Wadi Rum (335 Km) (4hrs)

After an early breakfast we will take a private transfer to the Wadi Rum. There will be the chance to see the city of Kerak en route and the Crusader's Castle, with its diverse history dated from the Byzantine to the Mamluk period and get to know the architectural military brilliance of the Crusaders.
We will meet our jeeps and desert team at Wadi Rum Visitors centre taking lunch in the desert. Our jeeps will take us to experience the 7 Pillars of Wisdom and Lawrence Canyon, seeing Nabatean inscriptions on the way. We will feel the sand and explore carvings!
Visit the 7 Pillars of Wisdom, Lawrence Canyon, and ancient Nabatean inscriptions. Trek through Burrah (meaning "fertile ground" in Arabic) Canyon to Mushroom Rock. Later, transfer to Lawrence House and settle in at the desert camp or hotel in Wadi Rum. There will be no showers available this evening. (7-9km / 3.5hrs trekking) Desert Camp 1 in Wadi Rum (B,L,D)

Some background information:
TE Lawrence was a British left lieutenant Colonel who played a pivotal role in uniting Arab tribes during World War I. It is said that he sought shelter here around 1917 during his desert campaigns against the Ottoman Empire. Lawrence’s house in Wadi Rum, also known as Arabian Nights, holds a captivating history that intertwines ancient times with more recent events.

However, the house itself has a much older history. It was built atop a pre-existing structure crafted by the Nabataeans over two thousand years ago. The Seven Pillars are the first major formation you’ll encounter. They tower over the Wadi Rum visitor center. Ancient people used it as a station for passing caravans. While it’s known as Lawrence’s House, the Bedouin people have another name for it: “The Small Palace”.

This morning, we awaken in the heart of the desert. Our journey begins as we trek from camp to the majestic Um Fruth bridge, spanning around 10km of pristine desert sands. We traverse through a wide canyon adorned with towering sandstone rock pillars, following ancient paths used by Bedouin hunters and shepherds.

Reaching Um Fruth bridge, we continue our adventure, navigating soft sands and scrambling across rocky Jebels. Here, we have the remarkable opportunity to walk atop both Burdah and Umm Fruth bridges, marveling at their natural grandeur. Burdah, Rum's largest arch, perches boldly, offering breathtaking views.

As we explore Wadi Rum, we encounter ancient petroglyphs dating back as far as 5,000 years, etched into the rocks by past civilizations. These captivating carvings depict scenes of human life, animals, and intricate symbols, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Our journey then leads us to Wadi Nuqra Canyon, a landscape steeped in history. Here, amidst the white desert expanse, we trace the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, envisioning the routes he may have taken during the Battle of Aqaba.

Continuing onwards, we venture towards Um Adami, tracing paths of historical significance where Lawrence rallied tribes for the decisive assault on Aqaba. Amidst rugged terrain and dry riverbeds, we catch glimpses of Um Adami against the desert backdrop.

Arriving at Umm Ad Dami camp nestled at the base of Jebel Umm Ad Dami, we are greeted by the comforting warmth of our desert oasis. Supported by jeeps and skilled cooks, we indulge in hearty meals, replenishing for the adventures ahead.
(8km/4hrs trekking) Desert Camp 2 (B,L,D)

Some background information:
The petroglyphs we will witness in Wadi Rum are estimated to be up to 5,000 years old. These ancient rock carvings were created by various civilizations and cultures that inhabited the region covering a wide range of subjects, including humans, animals, hunting scenes, geometric patterns, symbols, and religious motifs. They offer clues about the social structures, spiritual beliefs, and artistic expressions of ancient societies.

Wadi Nuqra Canyon is the location where Lawrence of Arabia may have escaped – Wadi Nuqra is in the white desert that runs north to south and is an old Bedouin name used by women in last centuries.

From Wadi Nuqra towards Um Adaami we will see the route that Lawrence would have likely taken to Aqaba. Here he got all the tribes together to make the assault on Aqaba. Starting in Amman he was able to gain support together with Faisal, the leader of the Arabs in the desert. We move through the canyon and out over a dry riverbed where we will see Um Adaami, continuing en route to the camp.

Battle of Aqaba: One of the notable military engagements in the region during World War I was the Battle of Aqaba in July 1917. Led by Lawrence and Arab forces, including the Howeitat tribe, the battle resulted in the capture of the port city of Aqaba from the Ottomans. This victory was significant as it opened up a supply line for the Arab Revolt and facilitated further advances against Ottoman forces.

Embark on an exhilarating ascent of Jebel Um Adaami, Jordan's highest mountain nestled near the Saudi Arabian border. Along the journey, we'll encounter the remnants of ancient Nabatean ruins, a testament to the region's rich history. Upon reaching the summit, which stands as a gateway between Jordan and Saudi Arabia, prepare to be mesmerized by panoramic views stretching across Wadi Rum and the Gulf of Aqaba. After a rewarding trek of 3 to 4 hours, we'll descend back to the fixed desert camp in Wadi Rum, where comfort awaits with shower facilities and toilets. (Journey: 11 km | +400m | 5 hrs trekking) (B,L,D)

After an early morning walk of 2-3 hours we will be departing in Jeeps with the desert team and will head to Aqaba where, in 1916 T.E. Lawrence took Aqaba Fort. AKA Lawrence of Arabia, he advised troops lead by Sherif Nasir and Ayda Abu Tayi. We will study options for the movements of Lawrence. Before departing we will see where Lawrence most likely met with the troops and set out to take Aqaba. In mid-afternoon we will visit Aqaba Fort and take a short walk down to the seafront with the option to go snorkelling. (2-3hrs trekking, 5km)
4* Hotel (B, L)

Morning pick up from Aqaba and departure to Petra. Start the journey to explore Petra, aptly described as the “Rose-Red City, half as old as time”. The ancient city was founded by the Nabateans 2000 years ago. The visit of the ancient Nabatean capital starts on horseback, followed by a walk through the Siq, a long narrow fissure between two overhanging cliffs. We make our way in the direction of Little Petra. The landscape is ever changing sandy plateaus, Bedouin campsites, goat herds, stone staircases and rounded domes. We move past The Treasury Monastery, Al Khazna, an impressive structure almost 40m high and reportedly it was used as a temple by Christians in the Byzantine period. From here you have the option to head down into the Petra Basin past Um Saisaba ruins or back to our hotel.
(4-5hrs trekking, 13km) (B,L)

Breakfast. Departure to Mt. Nebo, which is considered to be one of the most important holy sites in Jordan. The journey will take approximately 3 hours. Mt Nebo is believed to be the place where Moses climbed from the Valley of Moab, and from where God showed him the Promised Land, as well as Moses’ last resting place. It features ruins from the 4th to the 6th century with marvellous mosaics adorning the grounds of the church still visible.

Perched at an elevation of over 800 meters above sea level, Mount Nebo offers unparalleled views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea. Several smaller paths lead to nearby ruins and viewpoints, offering a glimpse into the historical significance of the area. The classic path is just 2km but we will have time to explore more. We then continue our journey to Madaba or Amman.

Madaba is often referred to as the "City of Mosaics" due to its numerous ancient mosaic artworks. Our final celebratory meal will be at a fantastic local restaurant.
Madaba or Amman Hotel (B)

Conclude your journey with a transfer to QAIA for your departure. Reflect on your unforgettable experiences in Jordan as you bid farewell to this enchanting land. (B)