Jordan Nature: Desert & Red Sea

Breakfast. In the morning we will leave towards the north to visit UM QAIS, ancient Gadara. Famous Roman city of the Decapolis, famous for its black basalt stone constructions. Wonderful views of the Jordan Valley. We continue towards JERASH, ancient city of the Decapolis, Gerasa. It is one of the best preserved Roman cities in the world. It is accessed through Hadrian's Arch, an impressive three-arched gate built to commemorate the entry of Emperor Hadrian into the city in the year 129. Behind it is the Hippodrome with capacity for 15,000 spectators where athletic competitions, horse races and events were held. carriages, and other shows. Crossing the South Gate, after a small space where a market was located, you reach the most impressive structure in Jerash, the Oval Plaza, a wide circular esplanade 100m in diameter completely surrounded by 56 columns from the 1st century, and from there We will have a complete city to explore, with its theaters, streets, temples, church.... We will continue towards AJLUN, built in 1184 by a Saladin general to control the iron mines in the area. Built on a green hill with fantastic panoramic views over the Jordan Valley, it had seven towers and was surrounded by a dry well 10 meters deep. It defended the country against cross attacks from Karak, in addition to protecting trade routes between Jordan and Syria. Today a drawbridge crosses the moat giving access to a labyrinth of vaulted hallways, spiral staircases, and enormous rooms that were used as dining rooms, bedrooms, or stables. It is a clear example of medieval Arab military architecture in good condition. Return to Amman. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast. PETRA, known as the pink city, carved into the rock by the Nabataeans and protected by impenetrable mountains, was a flourishing city until its conquest by the Romans at the beginning of the 2nd century. The visit begins with the gorge, called Siq, at the end of which the most impressive monument suddenly appears, the Khanzeh (Treasury) and a sumptuous royal tomb. Afterwards we will see the Roman theater and dozens of funerary chambers from various cultures, houses and caves. We will visit the Byzantine Basilica, built around the year 450, of which columns, part of the walls and wonderful mosaics are preserved; A few years ago a good number of papyri were discovered, which are currently being worked on. The bravest will be able to climb the 900 steps to visit the Monastery, from where we will see a beautiful panoramic view of the UNESCO World Heritage monumental complex. After the visit, return to the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.