Jewels of Jordan

This is a Grade 5/SS/P holiday and features some full and half day walks with generally moderate amounts of ascent and descent. The paths are mostly good, but there will be some steep, uneven and rough ground as we explore archaeological sites and follow Bedouin paths. Some days will be dedicated solely to sightseeing or include an element of sightseeing, and our transfers between centres will include walks where possible. Generally we’ll walk between 2.5 hours- 5 hours a day, up to 12kms (8 miles) and an ascent/descent up to 400m. One of our days at Petra is top of the grade and ascends up to 750m, taking up to seven hours. While some walks appear shorter than others, it is the weather and terrain that determines the grade. Also designated a Pioneer holiday, this programme offers a more adventurous itinerary, off the beaten track, exploring lesser known corners. Local events may require amendments to the programme, sometime at short notice.

As the terrain in Jordan can be variable, be prepared for some rough, uneven sections on our walks. There will be days when our walking will be easier (sightseeing days) and some days when it will be at the top of the grade. Please note the information given in the itinerary regarding Day 10. There may be, on some days, a large element of sightseeing included in the walks which will mean stopping in various places before continuing with the programme.

In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

All walks transport, entrances, site passes etc mentioned in the itinerary are included in the holiday cost. If you wish to take any optional excursions, such as a hammam (JOD 20pp), or Petra by Night (JOD 17pp) or visit any sites not mentioned in the itinerary, these will be at your own expense. 

The current ROE (as of Summer 2019) is GBP 1 = JOD 0.98

As you are probably already aware, tipping or “backsheesh” is a way of life in the Middle East. In order to take the hassle out of tipping, we strongly recommend that you allow your leader to take care of making sure tips are given to hotel and restaurant staff & to local guides and drivers. This will be done using some funds provided by Ramblers Walking Holidays plus a contribution from you, which your leader will collect during the holiday. We suggest an amount of £25-£30 per person for this. A small tip is usually required for the use of toilets and any drinks and meals you purchase yourself.

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

To enhance your experience, as well as your tour leader, each holiday will be accompanied by a well qualified and knowledgeable English-speaking local guide.

We fly from London Heathrow (LHR) to Amman (AMN) and return with Royal Jordanian.

On arrival the transfer from the airport to our hotel in Amman takes approximately 45 minutes by road, depending on traffic conditions.

Transfers between centres will be by road and on foot.

If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.

Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.

If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.

Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.

Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.

When you book a flight or rail inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport/station and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.  

If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

You will need a passport to visit Jordan, and it must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended return to the UK. A visa is also required and is included in your tour cost if you are travelling on the group flight. If you are travelling independently, you will need to arrange your own visa.

Please note that we can only include you on the ‘group’ visa if you intend to arrive and depart with our party. If you intend to visit Jordan ahead of the party, remain in Jordan after the group has returned, or arrive/depart on a different flight, you will need to obtain your own visa at your own expense. If you hold a British passport, you can obtain an individual visa on arrival at Amman airport (approximate cost at time of writing is JOD40) or you can contact the Jordanian embassy to obtain your visa prior to travel.

Their website is www.jordan.embassyhomepage.com

All other passport holders should consult with the Jordanian Consulate   The FCO website advises that evidence of a previous visit to Israel such as an Israeli entry/exit stamp in your passport does not normally cause any difficulties when entering Jordan. It is, however, for the Jordanian authorities to determine the right of entry into the country. If you have any concerns, you should contact the Consulate of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in London. 

Further information may also be found at the British Foreign Office Website:

Jordan travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

As  Jordan  is  a  Muslim  country,  alcohol  is  not  always  available  to  purchase  at  hotels  and  restaurants.  In  many cases though, hotels may allow you to purchase alcohol outside the hotel to consume on their premises,  either in the restaurant area or in your rooms. Your leader will be able to offer guidance on this during the holiday. Please note that alcohol is expensive in Jordan, with local beers costing up to JOD5 per bottle and spirits up to JOD10 per  drink.  There  is  a  local  speciality  spirit  of  Arak  (an  aniseed  based  drink),  plus  a  very  refreshing  lemon  and mint drink, which you may wish to try.

Breakfasts  and  dinners  are  included  in  the  holiday  charge.  Dinners  will  generally  be  taken  at  our accommodation, with the exception of the last night in Madeba, when we eat at a local restaurant. Lunches are not included. Picnic supplies can be bought at local supermarkets and your leader will give ample notice for you to  shop  if  you  will  have  a  picnic,  or  at  a  local  restaurant.  Your  leader  will  give  you  information  in  your  daily briefings.   Specialities of Jordan include lamb and chicken dishes with vegetables, rice, salads, and fresh made bread. The local Hummus, Tahini and dips are delicious. Vegetarians are easily catered for.

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

• Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
• Lightweight quick-drying trousers
• Walking T-shirt/shirts
• Walking socks
• Fleece or jumper
• Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
• Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
• Swimwear & towel (if appropriate)
• Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
• Day sack liner
• Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
• Basic first aid kit
• Lunchbox
• Walking poles (should you find them useful)
• Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

In addition to the basic kit list noted above, you will benefit on bringing extra footwear for our Ibn Hammad walk. Depending on the rainfall, you may find yourself walking in an ankle deep (or possible higher) water. If you have walking sandals, trainers or quick drying sneakers, these will do well. Don't forget your torch and towel for stays at the camps, and women should bring a scarf that covers their head and shoulders to cover when visiting religious sites and as good protection from the sun. You will find the black and white check scarves, worn by the local population, sold almost everywhere in Amman and at Jerash and these will be perfect for protecting your head and shoulders.

Jordan is a conservative society and foreigners are received more respectfully when they dress modestly. In general, and especially at religious sites, men should wear long trousers, with shoulders and upper arms covered, while ladies should wear trousers or below the knee skirts.  Lightweight cotton clothes will be suitable.  Long sleeves and loose clothing is also good protection against the sun. When staying in Petra, and while on walks in the wadis, the attitude to dress is more relaxed, and here shorts may be acceptable. Your leader will give you further advice.

For overnight stays at the camps and at the Feynan Eco-lodge you will need to have an overnight bag, as you will not be able to take your suitcases with you. Your main luggage will be safely stored and you will reunited the next day.

It can get very cold in the desert at night under the clear skies. The temperature will drop rapidly at sundown so you will need warm clothing to wear in the evening. Whilst you will be supplied with suitable bedding some might like to take warm night attire. 

Documents and Information to take with you:

• Passport (make sure it's yours and valid)
• Your travel tickets or e-ticket itinerary
• Any visa or electronic travel authorisation (if required)
• Holiday money
• Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
• Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
• Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
• Your holiday Booking Confirmation document
• Your travel insurance details
• Alternative form of identification (such as a driving licence)
• Photocopy of the personal details' pages of your passport
• A valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if relevant
• Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Electricity is supplied at 220 Volts. There are a variety of wall socket and plug types in use so if you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins, a US two pin adapter with flat pins and a UK three pin adapter with flat pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/

Books:

• Walking in Jordan – Walks, Treks, Caves, Climbs & Canyons – Tony Howard and Di Taylor
• Rough Guide to Jordan – Matthew Teller
• Trekking & Canyoning in the Jordanian Dead Sea – Ita Haviv
• Petra and the Lost Kingdom of the Nabataeans – J Taylor
• Married to a Bedouin - Marguerite van Geldermalsen

You may also find the website of the Jordan Tourism Board useful in your planning at www.jordan.com

If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

You may wish to look at the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination; BBC weather or MyWeather2. 

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Don’t forget to exercise caution with what you eat to avoid upset stomachs and stay away from unpeeled fruit and vegetables, salad and do not have ice in your drinks. Hot, fresh cooked food, where possible, is best. 

Hand washing facilities may be poor or unavailable when travelling, we therefore strongly advise you to carry antibacterial sanitizing gel and / or hand wipes at all times and use to them regularly.

Drinking or cleaning teeth in un-boiled water is not recommended.  Bottled pure water is inexpensive and widely available in shops, at hotels, and on the coach. Make sure you only buy sealed bottles.

For further advice please visit:

• The National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) travel health website at www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
• The NHS 'Fit for travel' website at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk
• The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
• Or a local travel health clinic

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilise this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en-route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimise the use of mobile devices. Your co-operation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.