Jordan isn’t the kind of place you “do” from one hotel with a sun lounger and a cocktail. It’s a country that demands exploring. One minute you’re walking through rose-red ancient cities, the next you’re floating in the Dead Sea or sleeping under a sky full of desert stars. Dramatic? Absolutely. Worth it? Completely.
Jordan sits at the crossroads of the Middle East, and you can feel it. Empires have marched through here for thousands of years, leaving behind castles, Roman cities, biblical viewpoints and rock-carved wonders that genuinely make your jaw drop. It’s the sort of place that feels like a film set — except it’s very, very real.
And that’s where a TUI escorted tour makes perfect sense. You’re not fumbling with maps or wondering how to get from desert valley to ancient ruin. You’ve got an expert guide, all your transfers sorted, and a proper deep dive into the country — not just the Instagram highlights.
Tour Option 1: The Classic Highlights
Classic Highlights Tour with TUI
This one’s for the adventurers who like their holidays with a side of “wow”.
You start in Amman, getting your bearings in Jordan’s lively capital before heading out to explore Ajloun Castle and the ancient Roman city of Jerash. Jerash feels like stepping straight into a gladiator film — grand columns, theatres and old stone streets that have seen centuries of life.
Petra, though? That’s the showstopper. You walk through the narrow Siq canyon and suddenly the Treasury appears, carved into rose-coloured rock like something from another world. On this tour, you arrive early — before the crowds — which makes it feel even more magical. There’s even the option to see Petra by candlelight, glowing under 1,800 flickering flames. Goosebumps guaranteed.
Then it’s off to Wadi Rum — that vast, rust-red desert you’ll recognise from films like Lawrence of Arabia. You’ll jump in a 4×4, watch the sun rise over paprika-coloured sands, and spend a night in a traditional Bedouin camp. Yes, you’re sleeping under the stars. Yes, it’s as dreamy as it sounds.
And just when you think it can’t get better, you float in the Dead Sea — the lowest point on Earth — casually reading a newspaper while the salt keeps you bobbing on the surface. It’s bizarre. It’s brilliant.
This tour is classed as active and includes international flights, seven nights’ accommodation, most dinners, transfers and an English-speaking guide. Minimum age is 12, so it’s perfect for adventurous families too.
Tour Option 2: The Full Jordan Journey
If you’re thinking, “Let’s see absolutely everything,” this is your tour.
You still tick off Petra, Jerash, Mount Nebo, Madaba’s mosaics, the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum — but this itinerary stretches further south to Aqaba and Tala Bay on the Red Sea.
That means desert adventures followed by coastal downtime. One day you’re hiking up to Petra’s Monastery for panoramic views. The next, you’re snorkelling in crystal-clear waters filled with coral reefs and hundreds of species of fish. It’s contrast at its best.
There’s also Kerak Castle — a dramatic Crusader fortress with countryside views that stretch for miles — and Little Petra, the quieter sibling of the main site. Evenings might involve traditional Zarb, a Bedouin feast slow-cooked underground, or dinner with a local family where you get a genuine glimpse into Jordanian life.
This tour is classed as moderate, runs for 11 nights, and includes flights, accommodation, transfers and guided experiences. Minimum age is 10, making it slightly more family-friendly.
Jordanian food deserves a mention, too. Expect hummus, aubergines, chickpeas, flatbreads and fragrant rice dishes to appear regularly. Black tea is everywhere (usually sweet), and alcohol is available in most hotels and restaurants, except during Ramadan.
Top Tips
• Bring a lightweight scarf — desert sun and religious sites both call for it.
• Wear proper walking shoes. Petra is bigger than you think.
• Pack layers — desert nights turn surprisingly chilly.
• Don’t rush Petra’s Monastery hike — the views deserve breathing space.
• Carry small Jordanian Dinar notes for markets and tips.
• Say yes to mint tea with Bedouins — it’s part of the experience.
• Try the Dead Sea mud. It’s messy but oddly satisfying.
• Keep your passport handy on arrival for visa processing.
A quick practical note — your passport needs at least six months’ validity, and a single-entry visa is required. TUI’s local representative assists on arrival, so it’s straightforward. Just don’t breeze past immigration without speaking to them first.
Jordan isn’t just a holiday. It’s standing where prophets stood, floating where nothing sinks, and sleeping where the stars feel close enough to touch. Whether you choose the classic highlights or the full Red Sea adventure, this is travel that stays with you long after the suitcase is unpacked.
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