Jordan: Women's Expedition

8 Days
From $2,223 Was $2,615
Best Rate
Guarantee
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Average

Rating


(20 reviews)

Experience Overview

Join an eight-day women’s expedition in Jordan and discover a new perspective of sisterhood. In this inspiring desert nation, you’ll spend a night in Wadi Rum, learn the art of henna with Bedouin women and float along the Dead Sea. Visit Petra – one of the Seven Wonders of the World – and learn about traditional marriage from a professional matchmaker. Pick up local cooking tips from unsung experts, sit down for afternoon tea with local women and learn their stories and support women-led businesses along the way. On this female-only adventure, travellers are granted access to a side of life seldom seen by tourists while also developing a deeper understanding of Middle Eastern women and their unique traditions. Dive into something new and take the trip of a lifetime.

Highlights

  • Uncover the lesser-known side of Jordan as you travel on a woman-only expedition guided by a local female leader. Visit Women-led cooperatives, support local female businesses and eat, sip and chat along the way.
  • Take a cooking class with a local chef who started her own business to teach people about Jordanian culture through food. Hear her story and taste authentic family recipes.
  • Float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea – once believed to have mystical healing powers and so popular that Cleopatra herself would travel from Egypt to soak and exfoliate in the mineral-rich mud.
  • Experience the majesty and mystery of ancient Petra (one of the Seven Wonders of the World) during a guided tour. The first glimpse of the Treasury from the narrow path of the Siq is something you’ll never forget.
  • Drive through the remarkable desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, then take a look behind closed doors as local Bedouin women join you to share their knowledge and craft of henna application.

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 1750

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Moderate

TransportTransport: Private Vehicle,Jeep

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: EESF

StartStarts: Amman, Jordan

FinishFinishes: Madaba, Jordan

DurationDuration: 8 days

DeparturesDepartures: Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Average

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (7), Lunch (2), Dinner (3)
Accommodation: Hotel (6 nights),Desert camp (1 night)

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) $2,223 ($278 /day)

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Amman

Ahlan Wa Sahlan! Welcome to Jordan. Your adventure begins in Amman – a cosmopolitan and contemporary city steeped in biblical history. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm, followed by a cooking class with a local chef who started her own business to teach people about Jordanian culture through food. On the menu is maqluba – a dish that literally translates to ‘upside down’ (a hearty casserole with rice, vegetables and chicken that's cooked, flipped and served with either yoghurt or an Arab salad with tahini). Listen to the chef’s story as you cook, learn about the local culture and enjoy a group dinner of authentic family recipes.

Included Activities:

  • Amman - cooking class and dinner

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

2
Day 2: Amman

After breakfast, head to Jerash – a city famed for its Greco-Roman ruins. Once a favourite place fo the emperor, the ruins include a collection of archways, theatres, baths, public buildings and colonnaded streets to explore. From the ruins, you’ll head to Beit Khairat Souf. Originally constructed in 1881 and recently renovated, this heritage home once belonged to the Batarseh family. Now managed by an ambitious group of women, this space provides a sanctuary for women to learn new skills, market their products and create a positive economic impact for their families. The social enterprise sells handmade products such as oil, jam and herbs made in the village. Wander the house and gardens before sitting down to lunch made by the local women. After, return to Amman for a walking tour of the citadel, Roman Odeon, Roman Theatre and Rainbow Street – the heart of Amman’s arts and shopping scene and home of the city’s best falafel. Then you’ll welcomed into the home of a local matchmaker for a cup of tea while learning about the tradition of arranged marriage in Jordan and how she helps couples in the community.

Included Activities:

  • Amman - City Tour
  • Amman - Meet with a Jordanian matchmaker
  • Jerash - Roman ruins
  • Jerash - Beit Khairat Souf Visit & Lunch

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

3
Day 3: Wadi Rum

Rise early and drive to the rugged sandstone mountains of Wadi Rum. Stop in the small village of Rum, where you can pick up some lunch. Then, it's off to see some of the world’s most amazing desert scenery. Hop aboard jeeps operated by the Bedouin community and ride through swathes of desert, looking out for Bedouin camps (a group of dark tents low-pitched to the ground). In traditional Bedouin culture, a huge onus is placed on taking in and feeding any visitor, so a very warm welcome is assured. Later, you might be joined by some local Bedouin women (note that it will be necessary for one man to be present in the camp, as per local culture). Learn the ancient art of henna (and how to apply it), then fall asleep under a huge expanse of stars in camp.

Included Activities:

  • Wadi Rum - Henna with Bedouin women
  • Wadi Rum - Desert Jeep tour

Accommodation:

  • Desert Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

4
Day 4: Petra

After waking up in the unique surroundings of the Bedouin camp this morning, take a walk around the area before scaling one of the large dunes in search of panoramic views of the desert. After, you’ll head to the 'Rose City' of Petra. The site remained unknown to the wider world until 1812 when Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt visited. In 1985, Petra was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and was also voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. Spend the afternoon exploring Petra on a guided tour. Squeeze through a mile-long narrow path known as the Siq and get your first glimpse of the iconic Treasury, which was hand-carved out of rock! If your dates align, you may also like to take the opportunity to see Petra by night.

Included Activities:

  • Petra - Leader-led tour of Petra

Optional Activities:

  • Petra - Petra By Night (17 JOD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

5
Day 5: Petra

Enjoy a free day of self-discovery as you explore Petra on your own. The site is surprisingly big, and you can explore the old Roman road, temples and several old tombs, as well as the rock-hewn amphitheatre. For those with the energy, there's the challenging but highly rewarding walk up the steps to the monastery (approximately 1 hour). Speak to your leader for their recommendations for where to dine this evening, you may like to ask them where to find the best mansaf, the national dish of Jordan, made with lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt.

Included Activities:

  • Petra - Petra second day visit (unguided)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

6
Day 6: Madaba

Travel to the Dead Sea today, stopping along the way at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al-Maghtas Bethany Baptism, where it’s believed Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist. Continue to the shores of this famously salty sea that marks the lowest point on Earth (420 m below sea level). This isn’t actually a sea, but a super-salty lake! The title of 'dead' comes from the lack of life due to the high salt content. The density of the water makes it super easy to float in (so you'll be going for more of a float than a swim). Spend some time in the natural spa – the mud here is said to have healing properties, so make the most of it by covering yourself from head to toe in a nutrient-rich natural mineral mud bath. Tonight, you’ll be spending the night in Madaba.

Included Activities:

  • Dead Sea - Swimming opportunity
  • Madaba - Al-Maghtas Bethany Baptism site

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

7
Day 7: Madaba

Start your morning with a visit to St George’s Church – home to the 6th-century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land. A short drive from here is Mt Nebo, the spot where the prophet Moses is said to have seen the ‘promised land’ and is believed to have been buried. Explore this sanctuary and view the remarkable mosaics of the 4th-century church. Later, pay a visit to the Bani Hamida Women’s weaving project. Founded by Save The Children in 1985, this social enterprise provides employment for women while teaching them valuable skills and preserving traditional weaving techniques. Since its inception, the project has benefitted more than 1600 Jordanian women. Find a common thread with the ladies who work here as you swap stories over lunch, then return to Madaba, where you’ll spend the evening and enjoy a picnic dinner of local Arabic mezze.

Included Activities:

  • Madaba - St Georges Church
  • Mt Nebo - Site visit
  • Amman - Bani Hamida Women's Weaving Project

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

8
Day 8: Madaba

This trip comes to an end today. There are no activities planned, and you can depart the accommodation at any time after checkout. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Reviews

 

Kathleen   -  Traveled, October 2023

Jordan is a safe welcoming country with a great climate. This trip is non stop with some late nights and little down time. The archeological sites can get overwhelming. Recommend doing your research to make it more meaningful. Hotels just ok, restaurants ok. Cooking class was a highlight as was Dead Sea wish it was an overnight. Jordan is no bargain and if you want to shop you will need to add a day. Overall, very happy I went and all women was a nice change.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/01/2023

 

Debra   -  Traveled, October 2023

My adventure in Jordan was just wonderful. We saw a lot of the country and learned a lot of history of the area. Our guide, Nuwar brought everything to life. The small group size was an added bonus. In spite of the nearby tension, we always felt safe.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/28/2023

 

Claire   -  Traveled, October 2023

I highly recommend this tour. Our leader Nuwar was fantastic; the sites were amazing and the trip to Wadi Rum was unforgettable. I appreciated having the extra day in Petra, and the provision of history from Nuwar that gave the whole experience much more meaning.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/27/2023

 

Allison   -  Traveled, October 2023

I booked the Jordan women's only tour because of the opportunities to engage with local women. Although these inclusions were not exactly as described, they were great activities. Seeing the sunset and sunrise at Wadi Rum and the hospitality of the Bedouins was a highlight. Petra was amazing and it was great to have 1.5 days there - we really needed that much time to see everything. Nuwar was engaging and passionate and ensured everybody had a great tour. Thanks Nuwar.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/27/2023

 

Christina   -  Traveled, October 2023

If you can get past the hotel situation (it’s not great, 1-2 star hotels) then you’ll have the time of your life. This trip was truly special. An unforgettable time made possible by the women I toured with.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/20/2023

 

Rakai   -  Traveled, September 2023

Our guide made the trip a success for me. It was paced exactly right for the fit and the fat and the in-betweens due to Nuwar's caring management of us all. Her knowledge of all aspects of history, regional politics, religion and life in Jordan now was extensive and she shares it clearly so you feel your learning heaps. I think Intrepid is lucky to have her.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/24/2023

 

Jeanette   -  Traveled, September 2023

Jordan is an amazing destination. Overwhelming to think in 5 days you experience Wadi Rum, Petra, Dead Sea and the Banks of the Jordan River WOW! Nuwar gave us an open insight to life in Jordan and the Women we meet on and off the tour were really lovely and were happy to discuss their experiences and lifestyle with us. This itinerary is great but not all interaction listed with women groups are had so just be mindful of that. If wanting to see the Dead Sea Scrolls organise this yourself they are at the Jordan Museum in Amman (Not open on Tuesdays) - highly recommend doing this

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/07/2023

 

Sara   -  Traveled, June 2023

The women’s expedition Jordan trip was beyond incredible. Our trip leader Nawar was exceptional, the group of women was fabulous, and overall it was a trip I will never forget.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/25/2023

 

Dena   -  Traveled, May 2023

The Women's Expedition to Jordan was great. Having only women on the trip really impacts the overall vibe; it was incredible to explore a lovely country with women from all over the world. I love that there is a second full day at Petra, you feel like you really get to discover so much of it. Meeting Jordanian women and learning about their life experiences was one of the best parts of the tour.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/28/2023

 

Katharina   -  Traveled, May 2023

This trip was a wonderful experience and i would totally recommend it. Jordan is such a beautiful country and this trip gives you an excellent insight within a short period of time: Wadi Rum and Petra were my favorites. If you are lucky enough, Nuwar will be your guide - she is so kind, hospitable and did an excellent job, which truly added to our experience. Travelling with a „only woman group“ is very rewarding in many ways, it opens up doors which usually are closed to a mixed people group. Intrepid, please add even more „woman only trips“ to your destinations!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/28/2023

 

Elaine   -  Traveled, May 2023

This was my third trip with Intrepid and another success. My group were a joy to travel with and our guide was excellent. It was an interesting trip in a beautiful and fascinating country with a busy and well balanced itinerary. I left tired, happy and with love for Jordan.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/14/2023

 

Monica   -  Traveled, April 2023

Great trip with a great guide, Nuwar. Panorama Wadi Rum Camp was way better than I expected. Shout out to Mohammed our driver in Wadi Rum and his family's excellent facility in the desert. There was a lot less time and interaction with Bedouin women and the Women's Only Beach was full of men! Decent hotels with the exception of the Art Hotel in Amman. Other groups stayed elsewhere - lucky them.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 04/30/2023

 

Molly   -  Traveled, April 2023

Excellent trip with a lot included; touching on the beauty and diversity of the country. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and generous with her communication - especially with local women. Would recommend!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 04/16/2023

 

Holly   -  Traveled, April 2023

Best tour guide I have ever had. Thank you Nuwar for making such a great trip , her knowledge and care was fantastic. This was my first solo trip and I had the best time with so many activities to do ! Jordan is worth a visit and if you are considering booking this trip you will not be disappointed. Thank you so much for allowing me to see so much of Jordan safely, with a brilliantly planned tour. I will booking again for sure with this company.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 04/13/2023

 

Louisa   -  Traveled, April 2023

The best thing I can say about this trip is: GO!! I came away feeling I had really gotten to know Jordan far beyond the usual tourist experience. Being welcomed into local homes, really exploring sites, hearing the stories of inspirational women...it was all so good. Jordan is such a welcoming country and our tour guide Nuwar was absolutely excellent. She made us feel like family and is a very experienced guide with a wealth of information. I started out a bit nervous about travelling to an unknown place, and came away feeling I'd had a true adventure with a whole bunch of new friends.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 04/11/2023

 

Katrina   -  Traveled, November 2022

You can see so much on this tour in such a short amount of time! This tour keeps you busy and I thought it was fantastic. Jordon has some oooold history and you explore so much it through various ruins, Petra and Biblical sites. I really, really enjoyed the Wadi Rum desert and camping experience - it looked like a beautiful alien landscape. Our tour guide really cared about our experience and was so knowledgeable about the deep, rich history of Jordan.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/28/2022

 

Heather   -  Traveled, October 2022

Amazing! The tour leader was phenomenal and the excursions were on point (so much better than a large group) and the hotels were good too. Oooo and the food...delicious!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/23/2022

 

verity   -  Traveled, October 2022

A great trip to Jordan, seeing the major sites but also getting a personal insight into life as a woman in Jordan. The additional experiences tailored to the women's cause are well worth it.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/23/2022

 

rachel   -  Traveled, October 2022

Trip was great. European "C" plugs worked at all the hotels we stayed in. Desert accommodations were toasty warm with pillows and blankets (no need for a big jacket). Definitely bring sandproof shoes (like hiking shoes or boots) for Wadi Rum and Petra.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/30/2022

 

Jasmine   -  Traveled, September 2021

I would like to thank Intrepid for the opportunity and for the most incredible experience that I won in a competition. The trip to Jordan was the most incredible experience, full of history, culture and delicious food!!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/05/2021

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