This package does not include international airfares from your home airport. Any flights within your tour itinerary are included. If you would like to add international airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available after your booking is made.
Designed to take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Travel with no more than 26 people (on average 16-20), allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience.
This tour is either fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader or guided by experienced local guides at each destination. If your itinerary includes local guides, a new guide will meet you in each location, and any internal flights will be unescorted. For further details, please refer to the Essential Information for this tour.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
ā Incredible sightseeing with entry fees included, exploring Jordan's ancient wonders of Petra and Wadi Rum, plus Israel's holiest sites, with time to float in the Dead Sea.
ā 9 nights in 4 - 5 star accommodation
ā Overnight stay in a private tent in the Wadi Rum desert
ā Breakfast daily, 2 lunches and 2 dinnersĀ
ā Airport transfers included on the first and last day of your tour
ā Jordan Visa*
ā Dedicated transport throughout
ā Fully escorted by English-speaking guides
ā Sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary
ā Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
šļø Shared room available for solo passengers. This tour offers solo passengers the option to share a room with a fellow passenger of the same gender and avoid the Single Traveler supplement.
Explore ancient wonders like Jerash and Petra, gaze at the surreal Wadi Rum desert, float in the Dead Sea, and walk Jerusalem’s holy sites including the Mount of Olives, Via Dolorosa and Bethlehem for a rich blend of history, culture and unforgettable moments.
Welcome to Jordan, cosmopolitan and contemporary, yet steeped in biblical history. On arrival at Amman's Queen Alia International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
If you arrive with time to spare then walk the streets, where youāll soon hear āWelcome to Jordanā from the locals. Maybe pick up a coffee from one of the cafĆ©s and partner it with an araāyes, a toastie filled with spicy mincemeat. Maybe head to the Old Townās Roman Amphitheatre, find fine culture at the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts, look down on the city from the hilltop Temple of Hercules or begin your trip with a relax in a Turkish bath house.
Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. Ā If you are eligible for a Jordanian visa on arrival, this will be included in your tour package. Ā You will be met and assisted through immigration and transferred to your hotel.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers and the Jordanian Visa will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, your Visa and airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.
If you are eligible for a Jordanian visa on arrival, this will be included in your tour package. Ā You will be met and assisted through immigration.
After breakfast, enjoy a tour of this capital city. Cosmopolitan and contemporary, yet steeped in ancient biblical history, Amman is a bit of a chameleon. Most of the city's historical sites are located downtown. Here we'll visit the Citadel, with remains from the Roman to the early Islamic period; the Jordan Archaeological Museum, which houses the oldest Neolithic statues dating from 8000 to 5000 NC, as well as other valuable artifacts; the souq, where we'll get an idea of everyday life; as well as the beautifully restored 2nd-century Roman Theatre.
Next we'll take a short drive (approximately one-hour) north to Jerash. Once one of the grandest ancient Roman cities in the world, Jerash now boasts some of the best Greco-Roman ruins around. Admire this site's striking collection of crumbling archways, theatres, baths, public buildings and colonnaded streets. Grand columns encircle the city's centrepiece, the Oval Plaza, a wonderfully atmospheric place to linger after exploring this ruined city's lasting riches.
Inspiring Highlights
Special InformationĀ
Ā Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Today marks the beginning of our journey towards the fabled site of Petra. En route we'll visit Madaba, an ancient market town that's home to a number of fine Byzantine mosaics, the most outstanding of which lies within Saint George's Greek Orthodox Church. Here, a map of the Holy Land once carpeted the whole floor, said to contain more than two million pieces. Crafted around 560 CE, a large swathe of this mosaic map can still be viewed, providing the oldest map of Palestine in existence.
Next we'll continue to the ancient village at Dana, on the edge of the Dana Biosphere Reserve, where local artisans sell silver jewellery.
Later, we'll drive along the King's Highway, up to Shobak Castle, sometimes known as Montreal. Perched at the top of a hill in the desert, this ancient Crusader castle was originally built to protect the eastern flank of the Latin Kingdom and its trade routes to the sea before it fell to Muslim sultan Saladin in 1189. Stroll the site and discover a small chapel, original gatehouse, and find out where a long, dark secret passage leads.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.Ā
Get ready for Petra! A firm fixture on most bucket lists for good reason ā the jewel of Jordan is an arresting sight. The so-called Rose City boasts an impressive series of tombs, caves and temples hidden behind ornate faƧades carved directly into the rock. No one knows the exact date of this desert kingdom's creation, but the lost city of the Nabateans is believed to date as far back as the 2nd century CE. The city has lain empty and unknown for centuries, only rediscovered in 1812 by a Swiss explorer.
You'll feel just like Indiana Jones, as you meander through the narrow canyon known as the Siq; at times the path measures only a few metres wide, with walls soaring up to 180 metres on either side of you. It's easy to imagine the armies and merchants who made their way here many years ago, and the sense of awe they too must have felt upon reaching this ancient rock-hewn kingdom, surrounded by such a stark landscape. The Siq is the main entranceway to The Treasury ā perhaps Petra's most iconic sight, and one of its most elaborate temples.
Petra's greatest surprise, however, is its size. With our guide we'll explore the old Roman road, the amphitheatre and several tombs. We'll also climb up to the beautiful faƧade of the Monastery, from where you will have a magnificent view of the entire site.
Exploring this truly extraordinary destination is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Inspiring Highlights
We continue to Wadi Rum and browse around the excellent and informative visitor's centre. We'll visit several of Wadi Rum's distinctive rock formations and soak in the vast silence, towering sandstone mountains and spectacular desert landscapes of this surreal 'Valley of the Moon', where the wind-sculpted rock formations change in hue throughout the day.
We'll also meet with local Bedouins, who live in scattered camps throughout the area. We'll enjoy an evening with them at one of their camps,Ā savouring the hospitality of these nomadic peoples and the uninterrupted desert panoramas.
Wadi Rum is probably best known for its connection with the enigmatic British army officer TE Lawrence, who was based here during the Great Arab Revolt of 1917-18. Much of David Lean's movie on his exploits, Lawrence of Arabia, was actually filmed in this very region.
Inspiring Highlights
Special InformationĀ
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.Ā
Please note - While we are sure that this experience will inspire you, please be aware that your stay will differ from that of a traditional hotel. There are no hotels in or near Wadi Rum: the only places to sleep are the numerousĀ bedouin-run camps dotted around the desert. The camps that we use are quoted as being 'luxury' because their locations differ from other styles of camps and your tent will have its own ensuite. Even at the best and more 'luxurious' camps, bathroom facilities within the tents are somewhat rudimentary and the bedding can also be quite basic, however still offering you a comfortable nights' accommodation. All of your meals are included and will be served in a common social area. While we may not make it sound glamorous, it will be a unique and memorable experience. For those who prefer not to ride a camel, there is the option of travelling into the desert by 4WD.
After waking up in the unique environment of the luxury camp this morning, we'll enjoy a walk around the area before scaling one of the large dunes to enjoy sensational views of the surrounding area; keen photographers will be delighted. We'll then ride camels back across the Wadi Rum desert. Ā (For those who prefer not to ride a camel, there is the option of travelling by 4WD)
Later, we'll drive for approximately two hours to reach a radically different landscape ā the Dead Sea. We'll spend the afternoon on the shores of this famous body of water, named for the dearth of life in its waters. The saline water has a high density that keeps bathers buoyant and makes getting underneath the surface very difficult. Floating on the surface without any sort of lilo makes for a once in a lifetime experience. Afterwards we'll return to Amman for the evening.
Inspiring Highlights
Special InformationĀ
Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours
Leaving the hotel early this morning, we make our way to the Allenby bridge, at the Israeli border. The bridge crosses the Jordan River near the city of Jericho and connects the West Bank with Jordan. En route to Jerusalem we visit the ancient fortress of Masada. Situated at the very top of an isolated rock plateau in southeastern Israel, Masada is the site of the Jewsā last stand against the Romans after the fall of Jerusalem in 70 CE, and is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterwards, we continue our drive to Jerusalem, where we'll enjoy a welcome dinner to celebrate our first night in Israel.
Inspiring Highlights
Special InformationĀ
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. This travel time does not include border crossing formalities which can vary depending on group size and how busy it is. The crossing typically takes 1-3 hours and you will be unescorted, your tour leader will be waiting for you on the Israel side. You will need some USD or JOD to pay for Jordan exit tax (approx. 8-10 JOD) and the bus ride across the border (7 JOD plus 1.50 JOD per bag) prices can change on the border so please discuss this with your Tour Leader prior to crossing.
After breakfast, begin the day with sweeping views across Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, taking in the city skyline and key landmarks including the Dome of the Rock, Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Old City.
Continue into the Old City to walk the Via Dolorosa, traditionally believed to trace the route Jesus took on the way to his crucifixion and still an important Christian pilgrimage path today.
Visit the Western Wall, one of Judaismās holiest sites, where visitors gather to pray and place written prayers between the ancient stones.
Travel on to Bethlehem, stopping for lunch at your own expense, before visiting the Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage Site revered as the birthplace of Jesus. Its historic basilica and grotto offer a powerful insight into the areaās religious significance.
Return to Jerusalem in the afternoon, with the evening at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
After breakfast we headĀ north to the Sea of Galilee, a tranquil freshwater lake closely associated with the ministry of Jesus. We explore several key sacred sites, including Capernaum, often called the āTown of Jesusā, as well as Tabgha and the Mount of Beatitudes, believed to be the setting for many pivotal teachings. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake, taking in the landscapes that have inspired pilgrims for centuries.
We end the day in Nazareth, the city where Jesus spent his early years, rich in biblical heritage and cultural significance.
Inspiring Highlights
Special InformationĀ
Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.Ā
After breakfast, we explore the key sights of Nazareth, including the revered Church of the Annunciation, a landmark deeply connected to Christian tradition and the cityās spiritual heritage.
We then continue to Caesarea, renowned for its impressive national park and remarkably preserved Roman remains. Here, aqueducts, a grand amphitheatre, and the outlines of an ancient hippodrome reveal the cityās storied past. The restored amphitheatre, still used for summer performances, offers a striking glimpse into Caesareaās former grandeur.
Our journey continues to the ancient port city of Jaffa, the historic heart from which modern Tel Aviv has grown. We conclude our day in this vibrant, cosmopolitan city, celebrated for its coastal charm, lively dining scene, and bustling array of bars, restaurants, and boutiques.
Inspiring Highlights
Special InformationĀ
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.Ā
Unfortunately, today marks the end of your incredible tour through Jordan and Israel.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Special Information
Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight.
If you choose to extend your stay (e.g., departing after the final tour date) and have booked your additional accommodation independently, this included service will be forfeited and no refund will be issued.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
Payment Terms
Secure your trip with a ā¹5,999.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
Cooling Off Period Ā
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product.
Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.
Terms and conditions
Please review our terms and conditions here:
https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditionsĀ Ā
Starting Point
Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Ā Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty.
Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary. Ā The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotelās discretion.
Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.
Arrival Details
Airport transfers are included as part of your package, so long as you are arriving as per the purchased itinerary. If you have purchased an extension, either pre or post-tour, the applicable transfer service will be forfeited from your package and you will need to make your arrangements to the starting hotel.
Where the service remains included, on arrival look out for a representative holding an āInspiring Vacationsā sign after you have collected your baggage and exited customs. If you cannot find them, try to avoid wandering around and instead stay in one place and call the emergency contact number on your documentation.
Where the service has been forfeited due to an early arrival and extended stay, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. Ā We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.
To make your way to your hotel from the airport, there are various connections by train or limousine bus. The airport information desks can provide helpful advice, too. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber or Didi.
If you're having any problems finding the hotel, please ring the hotel directly or you can phone our customer support team for on-tour assistance.
Welcome Meeting Instructions
On the morning of day 2, meet your tour guide and fellow travellers before heading out to commence your touring for the day. Ā
You are welcome to arrive at any time on Day 1 of your tour and the day is at your leisure. Upon checking in at the hotel, you will receive a letter containing meeting instructions for the following morning. If you do not automatically receive these details, please ask for them. Generally, you must meet at the lobby the following morning (on the day that sightseeing commences) as early as 0815 am local time. Please ensure that you are on time.
In Case of Emergency
Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.
We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.
When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this on arrival during your welcome meeting.
Finishing Point
Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.
Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost payable directly.Ā
Departure Details
Airport transfers are included as part of your package, so long as you are departing as per the purchased itinerary. If you have purchased an extension, either pre or post-tour, the applicable transfer service will be forfeited from your package and you will need to make your arrangements to the starting hotel.
Where the service remains included, your tour leader will confirm the pick-up time from your hotel to the airport and this will depend on the flight that you have booked. Generally, you will be required to be at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled departure.Ā
Where the service has been forfeited due to an extended stay, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. Ā We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.
To make your way to your hotel from the airport, there are various connections by train or limousine bus. The airport information desks can provide helpful advice, too. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber or Didi. If you're having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure.Ā
Tour Suitability
Child Policy
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Pace
This trip category is 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: This trip offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Activity and Mobility
This tour is categorized as: 3 out of5
Activity snapshot
Mobility requirements
Terrain & environment
As a general requirement across all of our tours, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your tour.
Group Size
Minimum 4, Maximum 20
Escorted Style
Fully escorted
Tour Type
Small Group
Exclusions
Getting Around
This tour uses private coaches throughout. For coach journeys, where applicable there will be comfort stops along the way where you can freshen up, stretch your legs, use the bathroom and often, purchase refreshments. Generally, lunch stops will be taken at rest stops as they can easily accommodate our large groups.
Hotel Ratings
Star ratings can differ between countries, reflecting diverse standards and amenities. To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyse a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.
This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.
Accommodation Details
We have carefully selected 4-5 star hotels to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. Our accommodations reflect the best available options, tailored to our style of travel.Ā
For more information on your cruise accommodation, please see Cruise Details above.
Packing Essentials
What you need to pack for your tour will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible, ensuring that you can carry and lift your luggage, and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs.
A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for this trip. Many tours will include internal flights which often have luggage weight restrictions, and it is recommended that you keep your main luggage weight around 15kg and no more than 20kg. A small or medium-sized backpack (45-50 litres) is another good option. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, a camera, a jacket, and your essentials while touring during the day.
Climate
Israel experiences a diverse climate influenced by its Mediterranean coastline, desert regions, and higher-altitude inland areas. Conditions vary noticeably between regions and from day to night.
Weather can vary between regions and throughout the day, so packing layers is the best way to stay comfortable across the journey.
Currency and ATMs
In Jordan, the local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD).
The local currency in Israel is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS). While Israel is generally a modern, card-friendly destination, cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, taxis, and rural areas.
ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas in both countries, usually offering good exchange rates. However, machines in remote regions may be out of service, so donāt rely on them exclusively.
Both countries rely heavily on cash, especially in markets, smaller shops, and rural areas, so itās advisable to carry small denominations for tipping and everyday purchases.
Most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores accept credit and debit cards, with Visa and Mastercard being the most commonly accepted.
Food and Allergies
Travelling in Jordan and Israel offers a diverse and delicious culinary experience, rooted in generosity, tradition, and local flavors.
In Jordan, donāt miss mansaf, the national dish made of lamb, rice, and fermented yoghurt. Youāll also find falafel, hummus, labneh, and fresh salads like tabbouleh and fattoush. Grilled meats like shish tawook and kebabs are widely available, often paired with rice or flatbread. For dessert, try knafeh or baklava, usually served with mint tea or Arabic coffee.
In Israel, food is a vibrant blend of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Jewish culinary traditions. Donāt miss shakshuka, a beloved dish of eggs poached in spiced tomato sauce, or hummus served warm with fresh pita. Street-food favorites include falafel, shawarma, and sabich, each offering a satisfying taste of local flavors. Fresh salads such as Israeli salad and tabbouleh are common accompaniments, along with grilled meats and seafood along the coast. For dessert, try knafeh, baklava, or malabi, often enjoyed with strong Israeli coffee or refreshing mint tea.
While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you'll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of local cuisines. While many meals will be eaten together with your group, not all meals are included in your tour which gives you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will also be able to give suggestions on which restaurants to try during your trip. For those with a particular food allergy, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader will endeavor to advise the main ingredients in the dishes consumed. It is, however, still your responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any problematic ingredients.
Local Customs
Jordan is a predominantly Muslim countries, where local customs are shaped by religion, hospitality, and social respect. Modest dress, polite behavior, and cultural awareness are appreciated throughout your journey.
When visiting mosques, religious sites, or rural communities, itās respectful to cover your shoulders and knees, and to remove your shoes before entering a mosque. Women are not required to wear a headscarf except when entering a mosque, where covering the head, shoulders, and legs is expected. Men should also avoid wearing shorts in mosques.
Haggling is common in Ā souks and markets, and while vendors can be persistent, a polite but firm āno, thank youā is usually effective. Respect, patience, and a sense of humor will go a long way when interacting with locals.
A friendly Arabic greeting like salaam alaikum (āpeace be upon youā) is often warmly received and helps foster respectful connections.
Israel is a culturally diverse country, shaped by Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and secular traditions. Respect, awareness, and modestyāparticularly at religious or historic sitesāare appreciated throughout your visit.
When visiting synagogues, churches, mosques, and religious neighborhoods, it is respectful to dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and in some Orthodox Jewish areas, women may be expected to wear long skirts and men to avoid sleeveless tops. In mosques, you will need to remove your shoes before entering, and women may be asked to cover their hair.
In markets and busy shopping areas, light bargaining is sometimes acceptable, though it is less common than in neighboring countries. A polite but firm response is generally effective if youāre not interested in purchasing.
Greetings vary depending on the communityāshalom (āpeaceā) is universally understood and warmly received across the country.
Understanding and embracing these customs will help you feel more confident and allow for more meaningful cultural interactions.
Dress Code
Pack a mix of lightweight and modest clothing suitable for the warm, dry climate in both Jordan and Israel. Long sleeves and trousers are ideal for sun protection, visiting religious or conservative sites, and staying comfortable in the heat. Choose breathable fabrics that are easy to wash and dry, especially if you'll be spending time in desert regions like Wadi Rum and Petra.
Throughout Jordan and Israel, modest dress is recommended, particularly in conservative areas, rural towns, and religious sites. Both men and women should aim to cover shoulders and knees. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal ā it keeps you cool in the heat while also aligning with local expectations.
Women are not required to wear a headscarf unless visiting a mosque, and men should wear long trousers when entering religious sites. In tourist beach areas such as the Dead Sea, swimwear is acceptable, but itās not appropriate in public or non-tourist settings.
Dressing respectfully not only shows cultural awareness but also helps avoid unwanted attention and ensures smoother, more comfortable interactions throughout your trip.
Responsible Dining
Avoid consuming endangered species or items harvested unsustainably. Be respectful of local customs and food practices, and always tip fairly to support local workers. Responsible dining helps protect the environment and promotes the well-being of local communities.
Tipping Your Leaders
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. You will be asked to provide tipping to your guide towards a ākittyā, which is then used towards the guide tipping for the services of helpers, hotel staff, restaurants and airport porterage. We suggest USD$5 per person per day towards the kitty. Please note that this tipping is not for the guide, merely for the guide to tip the services of the driver and local workers during your tour. While not made compulsory, if you choose not to contribute to the kitty it means that the guide is tipping for these services out of their own pocket. Your cooperation in this instance is most appreciated.
Tipping for your guide will be collected at the commencementāor conclusion of their services in each country. To remove the uncertainty and stress of not knowing how much is appropriate to tip we recommend USD$6-8 per person per day. The amount you wish to contribute is dependent on the services received and at the complete discretion of the guest. Thank you for your understanding.
Please note that local accreditation requirements mean you will have different guides in each country. Border crossings between Jordan and Israel will be unescorted.
Peak Travel Times
The best time to visit Jordan is generally from October to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring key sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and Jerash. This period is considered peak season, with especially pleasant conditions during spring (MarchāApril) and autumn (OctoberāNovember) ā ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and desert adventures.
Summer (June to August) can bring intense heat, particularly in the desert areas of Jordan. While this season sees fewer tourists and lower prices, it requires good sun protection and heat tolerance.
Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, is observed in both countries and shifts dates each year. Travelling during Ramadan offers a unique cultural experience, but you may notice reduced opening hours at attractions, and restaurants and cafƩs may be closed during daylight hours. Your tour leader will adjust the itinerary as needed.
The best time to visit Israel is during spring (MarchāMay) and autumn (SeptemberāNovember), when the weather is mild and ideal for exploring key destinations such as Jerusalemās Old City, the Galilee, the Dead Sea, and coastal areas. These months are considered peak season, offering comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and excellent conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) is hot and dry, especially in desert regions like the Negev and around the Dead Sea, while coastal cities such as Tel Aviv can be humid. This season attracts beachgoers and families, making it a busy period with higher prices. Travelling in summer is possible but requires good sun protection and preparation for heat.
Winter (December to February) brings cooler temperatures and the majority of Israelās rainfall, particularly in the north and along the coast. Jerusalem and the hillier regions can be quite cold, with occasional frost or rare snowfall. Despite this, winter can be a pleasant and quieter time to visit, especially for cultural sites and indoor attractions.
Major religious holidaysāsuch as Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkotācan significantly affect travel, with higher demand, limited availability, and closures of shops, restaurants, and public transport. Planning ahead is essential if travelling during these periods.
Being aware of seasonal conditions ā both cultural and climatic ā will help you get the most out of your journey through Jordan & Israel.
Safety and Security
Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip.Ā
Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own. While your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.Ā
Please also note that your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
Tourist areas in Israel and Jordan are generally safe, and the region is known for its hospitality. However, itās still wise to take common-sense precautions. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in busy areas such as markets, tourist sites, and transport hubs, so keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items.
While vendors are generally polite, some may be persistent ā itās perfectly okay to politely decline and walk away. Be cautious of unsolicited offers or āguidesā approaching you on the street, and stick to reputable transport services organised through your accommodation or guide, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Respecting local customs, including dressing modestly and asking permission before photographing people, goes a long way in ensuring a positive and safe experience. Most travellers find Jordan to be welcoming, friendly, and easy to explore with a bit of awareness.
Apps to Download
Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, the lens function is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs, and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is great for easy navigation without being reliant on wifi.
Itinerary Changes
Sometimes, unexpected things can happen, like unpredictable weather or higher-than-usual crowds at attractions. In these situations, your tour leader might need to adjust the itinerary slightly to improve your overall experience.Ā
This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your trip! Your tour leader will always keep you informed of any changes and explain the reasoning behind them. Remember, when travelling with a group, sometimes going with the flow can lead to even more amazing experiences.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our trips. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-trip cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider.Ā
We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.
If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.
Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it.Ā
Health, Wellness & Fitness Requirements
All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.
When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully to assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. If we find that you are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to yourself and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.
Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations
We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.
Open communication helps us ensure your trip is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible.Ā
Information for CPAP Users
If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping trips, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs.Ā
Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your trip.
Documentation
Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list.Ā
Official Travel AdviceĀ
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:
Here are some helpful links to get you started:
In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:
By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.
Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook
During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together. Ā
We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming trip!
Travelling in a Group
Travelling in a group means you will experience both the pleasures and perhaps at times, some of the frustrations of travelling with people you donāt know. The good news is you all have at least one thing in common: a love of travel and exploration. Your fellow travellers will probably come from different parts of the world, and fall into different age groups. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your groupāpatience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the overall benefit of the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, please ensure that you respect this request from your tour leader or local guide. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip before departure.
Community Guidelines
Inspiring Vacations does not tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams (Inspiring Vacations Tour Leaders and local expert guides) or local communities.
Any behaviour that prevents your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines, may result in Inspiring Vacations removing you from the tour.
If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader immediately. Alternatively, when you are on-tour and require immediate support you can contact our Customer Support team and select the āOn-Tourā option when listening to the options.
Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs Guide
While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire trip, handle logistics, ensure smooth sailing of the itinerary, and act as your point of contact for any concerns. They might provide general information about destinations, but in-depth historical or cultural knowledge often comes from local guides. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.
Coach Transportation
The size of your coach will comfortably accommodate your group. There's usually room for some extra seats, ensuring a relaxing journey. Your luggage will be safely stored either underneath the coach or in a dedicated trailer.
While the exact coach style may vary depending on the departure, all our coaches offer comfortable seating. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi and charging outlets might not always be available. To stay connected and avoid dead batteries, Ā we recommend fully charging your devices beforehand or bringing a portable charger.
For longer journeys, we'll make sure to include ample restroom breaks along the way, so you can freshen up and recharge at your convenience, as facilities are not on-board the coach.
Staying Connected
If you want to stay connected and access reliable internet while on tour, there are a few options available. It is possible to purchase a virtual sim and we recommend contacting your mobile phone provider for assistance in doing so. You can add a roaming data plan to your existing phone contract is another option, albeit an expensive one. You will need to arrange this before departure. Purchasing a local SIM may be possible as a final option.Ā
We also recommend downloading WhatsApp and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour, and of course, after the tour if youād like to stay in touch. Our tour leaders may also use this as a means of communicating essential trip information with you, as well as if you choose to add-on transfers to your booking, as your driver may use this to confirm arrangements with you.
Post-Tour Feedback
Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability.Ā
Furthermore, towards the end of your travels and while you are in your destination, you will receive an email from us with a link to an in-depth trip survey. It is very important to us that we hear from our customers to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed customers' expectations, so this will be your opportunity to let us know how your trip has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved.
This is a Land Only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.Ā
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
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