Jordan’s Backdoor to Petra
October 16 -24, 2026
DETAILED ITINERARY | PRICE | FAQS
What Makes This Adventure Special:
While we will visit the well-known historic Jordanian sites, we have a chance to access them in a way few travelers can. With the help and connections of our local Bedouin guides, we will:
Enter Petra (the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’ in 2007) off the beaten path, via ‘the Back Door’ so you can miss the crowd
Trek four days through ever-changing, unearthly landscapes from Dana to Petra
Spend two nights at one of the 25 best Eco-lodges in the World, Feynan Eco-lodge
Hike Jabal Um Al Dami (the highest peak in Jordan) in Wadi Rum
Ride a camel in the desert of Wadi Rum
Enjoy relaxing and floating in the Dead Sea – the perfect cure for tired legs
With physical challenges, you'll be supported with mindful practices so that you leave your trip feeling inspired, reinvigorated, and connected to Nature, history, and yourself.
Plus:
+ Astonishing views into the most remote and wildest corners of Jordan
+ Knowledgeable guides with decades of experience and personal connections with locals
+ Daily mindfulness activities and intentional conversation
+ Opportunities to challenge your body and reconnect with Nature
+ Experienced Root tour leader
+ 3 month pre-trip physical and mental preparation guide
+ 2 pre-trip Zoom calls
+ Post-trip integration guide
+ 2 post-trip Zoom calls
+ Talk to a real human when booking and planning your trip!
Contact us:
720-743-5516 | INFO@ROOTADVENTURES.COM
Trip Origin Story:
It’s funny how life connects us in the most unexpected places. In 2023, Breanne met Matt during a kayaking trip down Japan’s Mukawa River—a friendship that soon led her to meeting our partner, Aymen, in Jordan, and the birth of Root Jordan.
Matt had spent years in Jordan raising his family and supporting local tourism projects, including some of Aymen’s earliest adventures. Together, they’ve built experiences that reflect what Jordan truly is—a country of warmth, resilience, and welcome.
We know that visiting the Middle East right now can feel daunting, given the tragic conflict nearby. But Jordan remains safe, stable, and open—a haven of peace in a turbulent region. Tourism here contributes around 15% of the nation’s GDP, and every traveler helps sustain communities that depend on it.
As of early 2025, visitor arrivals to Jordan are up nearly 19%, showing the world’s confidence in this incredible country.
By travelling with us you’re doing more than taking a trip—you’re supporting local communities, craftspeople, guides and families whose livelihoods are intertwined with tourism. We can’t wait to share this journey with you, to explore the landscapes, stories, and people of Jordan—together.
Detailed Itinerary
click “+” to explore the daily acitivities
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Upon arrival at Amman Airport meet our guide who will assist with immigration and transfer you to your hotel.
Amman is one of the oldest cities in the world, inhabited since the bronze age. The city is growing into a modern city, but retains its character and history.
The drive from QAIA into Amman takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.(35 km)
Accommodations: La Locanda Boutique Hotel
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Early morning pick up from Amman (~7am) and head south to Dana.
We start trekking from Dana Village, 1,200m above sea level and head west into Dana valley.
The trail drops steeply at first and then levels into a more gradual descent through the Dana Biosphere Reserve towards the eco-lodge at Feynan.
Jordan's largest reserve includes four distinct bio-geographical zones, which means that Dana supports an astonishing diversity of birds, plants, and animals. On your way down the valley, you may see Griffin Vultures overhead as well as hyrax and copper-blue lizards on the rocks; if you're lucky you might even catch a glimpse of an ibex or a desert fox, or see the footprint of a wolf in the dust.
We finish the hike at Feynan Lodge, which is an award-winning eco-lodge in Jordan. Set in the Dana Biosphere Reserve the lodge has a strong focus on sustainability, community benefit, and authentic natural & cultural experiences.
Drive from Amman onto Dana ~ 3.5 hours
Hiking distance: 8.7miles
Elevation gain: 750 feetHiking Level: Moderate
Accommodations: Feynan Eco-Lodge.
Meals: B, BL, D
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After breakfast, enjoy hiking, biking, local community experience or cooking classes offered by the ecolodge.
In the evening we’ll enjoy a short walk to a nearby hilltop for fresh Bedouin tea and stunning views as the sun sets over the vast Wadi Araba deserts.
Accommodations: Feynan Ecolodge
Meals: B, L, D
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After breakfast, transfer to Furon where we hike towards Ghbour Whedat.
Take in the astonishing views into the most remote, wildest corners of Jordan, contouring the Sharah Mountains and following a trail of mostly clear Bedouin shepherd trails.
Few people travel on this remote section of the trail, making it harder to identify hunters’ paths. The sheer peeks of black mountains looming over our path and the steep, precipitous drops of the canyons below make this day spectacular. We gradually climb up the hills following Bedouin shepherds’ paths to uncover more of the spectacular views of the desert below.
Accommodations: Camping in Wilderness
Wilderness camping accommodation is in twin accommodation dome tents. Mattresses and blankets provided.
We set up a ‘washroom’ tent and toilet tent. These are basic facilities, but allow privacy to wash and use the bathroom.
Meals: B, BL, D
Hiking Distance: 10.6 miles
Elevation gain: 2460 feetHiking Level: Difficult
Travel distance by Jeep from Feynan to Furon (hike starting point) is around 2 hours.
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After yesterday's very remote hike, today we will see signs of increasing human habitation as we approach Little Petra.
Along the way, we pass Bedouin camps, sheep pens, and small agricultural plots.
In this region between Ghbour Whedat and Little Petra, we will also pass Nabatean ruins, some of which may include wine and olive presses, aqueducts, and other ancient water infrastructures.
Today we will also visit Little Petra, believed by archaeologists to be a "suburb" of Petra, and meant to house traders traveling along the Silk Road connecting Africa to Asia, Europe, and Arabia. Touring Little Petra, we will see rock-carved facades, houses, and other ancient buildings carved into the sandstone canyon.
Accommodations: Little Petra Bedouin Camp
Little Petra Camp is owned and operated by a Bedouin family from Petra and it is an eco-friendly camp that offers a traditional & real Bedouin experience. All tents are private, but the bathrooms and the showers are shared. Each tent is equipped with beds, mattresses, blankets, and pillows.
Meals: B, BL, D
Hiking distance: 8.7 miles
Elevation gain: 2000ftHiking: 4-5 Hours
Hiking Level: Moderate
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After breakfast, we continue our track and enter Petra via ‘The Back Door’ avoiding most of the tourists.
Well-maintained tracks lead us down Wadi Ghurab amidst sandstone mountains guarding the approach to Petra. This way follows a Nabataean route out of the valley and skirts around the final mountain on a natural rock terrace.
The path narrows slightly before reaching a hidden plateau high above the impressive chasm of Wadi Siyyagh.
Just beyond, carved into the cliff face, ‘The Monastery’ suddenly comes into view, where there is a Bedouin café for refreshments.
Nabataean steps then lead down into ancient Petra; through which the route goes before exiting past ‘The Treasury’ and through the famous ‘Petra Siq’ to the shops, cafés, and hotels of Wadi Musa.
Transfer to Wadi Rum for the night.
Driving distance from Petra to Wadi Rum takes around 2 Hours.
Accommodations: Rum Magic Nights
Rum Magic Nights offers a unique heritage experience that will take you back in time to the indigenous ethnic Bedouin life.
Your accommodations are classic style Bedouin tents with AC and Private bathroom.
This campsite is located inside Wadi Rum Protected area (8 Km off-road driving from Rum Village), Runs its own power generator and solar system.
Meals: B, L, D
Hiking distance: 9-10 miles
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After breakfast drive ~1 hour to the foot of Um Ad Dami.
Um Ad Dami, at more than 1,800 meters is the highest peak in Jordan, offering a new perspective of the desert from the summit.
We then climb to the summit where we see Saudi Arabia to the south and North Jebel Rum to the north. After ~3 hours we transferred to camp to enjoy lunch and relax.
At sunset, following in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, we hop on camels in Wadi Rum to visit the main sites of interest.
Accommodations: Rum Magic Nights
Meals: B, L, D
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After breakfast in Wadi Rum drive to the lowest point on earth to float and relax at the Dead Sea.
Enjoy the sunshine and view whilst trying out the invigorating mud bath to cleanse the skin.
Accommodations: Crowne Plaza Resort Dead Sea
Meals: B, L, D
Driving distance from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea is around 4 hours.
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Pick up from the Dead Sea and transfer to the airport to catch your flight.
Dead Sea to the airport: ~1 hour
Meals: B
Price: $4995 per person
Deposit: $500 due today
Final Balance: due 90 days prior to departure
Price based on double occupancy (2 people per room)
Solo travelers will be paired with one another
Single rooms throughout the trip are an additional $550 per person
Payment plans available, please inquire.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS? CALL OR TEXT: 720.840.0866
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS? CALL OR TEXT: 720.840.0866
frequently asked questions
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We provide a full service experience. Included in your trip cost:
+ Accommodation as per the itinerary.
+ English speaking licensed guide except arrival and departure days.
+ Transportation as per itinerary.
+ Meet and assist at Amman Airport upon arrival.
+ Free collective visa to Jordan
+ Entrance fees to the sites mentioned in the itinerary.
+ 1 Hour Camel ride in Wadi Rum.
+ Mattress and blankets provided for the 1 night in wilderness.
+ 1 night camping in the Wilderness.
+ Local / bedouin escort for the hiking days.
+ Donkey as a support during hiking days on day 4 and 5.
+ Group Airport pick up and drop off.
+ Local bedouin experiences at Feynan on day 3.
+ Local / bedouin escort guide in Wadi Rum.
+ Water and snacks.
+ Meals as detailed: B- Breakfast / BL- Box Lunch / L- Lunch / D- Dinner
+ All tips/Gratuities
+ Daily mindfulness activities
+ 2 pre-trip calls
+ 2 post trip calls+ Access to our Director of Traveler Experience who can help answer all your questions logistical, emotional, or otherwise.
+ 3 month pre-trip preparation series
+ 6 Week Post-Trip Meditation Series to help integrate your experience
+ Lifetime access to the Root Community -
Airfare, travel insurance, souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, and anything not detailed in the itinerary.
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October is one of the best times to visit Jordan. Expect warm, sunny days and cool, comfortable evenings—perfect for exploring Petra, camping in Wadi Rum, and floating in the Dead Sea.
Daytime temperatures typically reach the upper 70s to low 80s°F (25–28°C) in Petra and Amman, and can climb into the low 90s°F (32–34°C) in Aqaba and the Jordan Valley. Nights are cooler, especially in the desert, dipping into the mid-50s to low 60s°F (13–17°C).
Rain is rare, and you’ll enjoy 8–10 hours of sunshine daily. Just pack layers for the temperature shift, sun protection for those bright days, and sturdy shoes for the terrain.
Overall? It’s dry, golden, and glowing—the perfect time to soak up the landscapes and history of Jordan.
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You’ll need to make sure you are in Amman, Jordan any time on Day 1.
Please depart from Amman, Jordan any time on the final day.
Please note: Group airport pick-up and drop-off are included for guests traveling on similar flight times. If your flights differ significantly, individual transfers can be arranged for an additional fee.
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We classify this trip a level 5 out of 5. This means that prior hiking experience is required. Expect long hikes, significant elevation gain and variable terrain in some areas.
We definitely recommend preparing physically for this trip and will provide a pre-trip preparation guide with a training plan starting 3 months out from your trip.
Check the detailed itinerary with daily mileage, approximate walking time and elevation changes.
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Sleeping accommodations are a combination of stays in hotels, ecolodges, safari style tent camping, and one night wilderness camping.
Feynan Ecolodge is hailed as one of the best 25 ecolodges in the world by National Geographic Traveler Magazine. This award-winning, solar powered facility offers the most developed eco-experience in Jordan.
Please note that all meals served at Feynan Lodge are vegetarian.
Your safari style tent camping are incredible accommodations that are complete with beds, linens and shared bathroom facilities.
Wilderness camping accommodations are dome tents that have mattresses and blankets provided, as well as a ‘wash room’ tent and toilet tent as well.
Check the itinerary for more details on each location.
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This is a trekking trip, however it is not a backpacking trip so you will not be carrying a large pack. Porters transport your luggage to each new overnight accommodation. You will carry a day pack (recommended with hydration bladder) to hold your needed gear from the day (sunscreen, water, camera, extra layers, etc.) for the day hikes.
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Yes! Most dietary requests can be arranged in advance.
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Most of Jordan has good phone coverage, however since you will be heading into the mountains the reception is limited. But there will be intermittent coverage throughout the trip. Wifi coverage is available in the hotel/camps, but not in the wilderness campsites.
Amman Hotel: Wifi in lobby and in Rooms.
Wilderness Camping : No Wi-fi
Little Petra Camp: Wi-fi in the reception only at the camp.
Feynan: In the lobby area.
At Feynan Ecolodge, all electricity is generated by solar panels, and it’s used only for essential functions such as:
Lighting in common areas (low-energy LEDs
Kitchen and administrative needs
Charging small devices at a central charging station for guests (not inside rooms)
Inside the guest rooms, there are no electrical outlets or bright lights; instead, rooms are lit by candles and oil lamps to maintain the eco-friendly and peaceful atmosphere. Hot water is also solar-heated.
It is recommended you bring a charging block if you would like to charge anything in your room.
Electricity runs on 220/240 volts in Jordan, and thin, circular two pin sockets are often used. However, you may find other types of sockets as well. If you do bring electrical appliances, we recommend to take along travel adapter, as well as voltage converter if your appliance runs on anything else than 220/240 volts.
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Throughout this trekking adventure there will be plenty of opportunities to shower with bathrooms at all overnight accommodations.
However, as you’re trekking on trail there will not be easy access to toilets, so your guides will brief you on “leave no trace behind” principles for elimination on trails and outdoors.
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You can find a packing list here. We will also go through gear questions in more detail in our two pre-trip calls.
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It is recommended that you do practice hikes, walks, or strength and cardio conditioning to prepare for this trip. Three months before the start of your trip you will receive a pre-trip preparation series that includes a training plan.
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Please email info@rootadventures.com or schedule a call. We would love to hear from you!
Bring your travels home
Every adventure leaves a mark—why not wear yours with pride?
These limited-edition designs were hand-drawn by our founder (Breanne) and inspired by the spirit, color, and magic of travel. Whether you're joining us on the trip or just dreaming of wandering, these gifts and apparel are the perfect way to celebrate your connection to the adventure.
Grab something for yourself—or a fellow adventurer—and keep the memories alive long after the trip ends.
HELLO Vintage Dad Cap
$34.00
ONE WORLD | Global Citizen
Say hello to everyone! In a world divider, let’s remind everyone that all are welcome and we are here to learn.
Everybody knows that dad caps are no longer just for dads, so get an embroidered cotton twill cap for yourself! This one's really special thanks to the intricate embroidery detail and the washed out vintage feel.
• 100% cotton twill
• 6-panel unstructured cap with a low profile
• 6 sewn eyelets
• Black sweatband
• Metal snap buckle with an antique brass finish
• Washed-out vintage effect
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
Candle and Coffee, A Ritual
$55.00
This hand-poured candle is designed to be both comforting and lasting. Poured into a reusable, espresso-cup–inspired vessel, it brings warmth and glow to your space now—and becomes a favorite coffee or tea cup once the candle has burned down.
The scent is a soft, watery blend of jasmine, lemon, and musk—clean, calming, and gently grounding. Notes of palo santo add warmth and depth, made using ethically sourced palo santo I personally purchased during my travels in Peru.
Across both science and ancient tradition, candlelight has long been used to support emotional well-being. Warm, low light is shown to help calm the nervous system and encourage presence, while pagan and earth-based traditions have used candles for centuries as tools for grounding, intention-setting, and moving through seasonal darkness.
This candle was born from winter—a season when I began using candle rituals to bring more light into my life and help navigate depression. What started as a personal practice became a way to share that light with others.
Each candle is made in small batches with care, designed to slow you down. When the flame is gone, clean the vessel and continue the ritual with your morning coffee or evening tea.
A percentage of every candle sold is donated to a mental health nonprofit, helping support access to care and resources.
Light with intention. Reuse with purpose. Carry the ritual forward.
Rooted Mountain Unisex Long Sleeve Tee
$38.00
Share your mountain and travel love with this super cozy Rooted Mountain Long Sleeve.
• 100% airlume combed ring-spun cotton
• Heather colors are 52% combed and ring-spun cotton, 48% polyester
• Athletic Heather and Black Heather are 90% combed and ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester
• Crew neck
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
MiiR Rooted Mountain Camp Cup
$39.00
A travel staple - clip it to your carryon and have warm coffee everywhere. All while rocking our favorite rooted mountain design.
Make your campfire memories a little warmer with our modern take on Grandpa's old camp cup. This 12oz Camp Cup is vacuum insulated so you won't burn your hands (or melt your face) when you are at work, home, or camping. Featuring a press-fit lid to prevent spilling and a convenient handle to make picking up your coffee mug a little easier. Use it for your coffee, tea, or your favorite drink you want to keep hot or cold.
We’ve partnered with Miir because they share our values of sustainability and social dedication. As a certified B-Corp, Miir is committed to giving 3% of revenue to organizations with sustainable methods of empowerment.
Thermo 3D ™ Double Wall Vacuum Insulation Technology
Keeps cold, stays hot
Gretchen Leggitt original art
Does not sweat
Lid and cup are BPA free. Press-on lid prevents splashes and keeps drinks warm longer
18/8 Medical grade stainless steel doesn't transfer flavor & no metal aftertaste
Hardshell™ Powder coat (colored camp cups)
Connection is the Destination Sticker
$5.00
The summit is only the beginning 💙
We don’t fly to the bottom of the world just for the photo. We go to find the space between the steps, the place where real connection happens.
Our Torres del Paine sticker is a tribute to the granite spires of Chile and the belief that connection is the destination. Stick it on your pack as a reminder that the people you’re with and the presence you bring are the greatest rewards of any adventure.
3.25 in X 1.75 in
A note from our founder:
Before my first retreat—as a guest—I was nervous. I worried I wouldn’t connect, that I’d get irritated by small talk or just crave space. I thought group travel might feel forced or draining.
But something unexpected happened. I softened. I connected. I laughed—hard. I felt seen.
Since then, group travel has become a central part of my life and work. It’s opened my heart wider than I thought possible. I’ve built friendships and community across the world, deepened my connection to cultures through local relationships, and expanded my understanding of what it means to belong.
I used to think making new friends was something you did in your twenties. But my network keeps expanding, my heart keeps opening, and I even appreciate the people already in my life more deeply now.
Traveling with others isn’t always easy—but it’s always real. It invites us to show up as we are, to listen more closely, to let our walls down just enough to grow.
And that’s the magic I hope to offer you through Root Adventures.
—Breanne
Why travel with us?
Why Group Travel? Why Root?
There’s something powerful about traveling with others—especially when those others are kind, curious, and craving connection just like you. On a group trip, you’re not just seeing new places—you’re sharing them. You’re creating moments together that go deeper than snapshots and itineraries.
At Root Adventures, our group trips are designed with intention. We keep groups small and thoughtful, led by mindfulness-trained guides who create space for both laughter and reflection. You’ll practice presence daily, share real conversations, and come home feeling seen, supported, and shifted.
Our journeys are adventuresome, beginner-friendly, and heart-led. Come as you are. Leave more you than ever.
WHAT MAKES ROOT GROUP TRIPS DIFFERENT:
Daily mindfulness practices woven into each day
Pre- and post-trip group calls to build connection and intention
Small, values-aligned groups—no big buses, no surface-level itineraries
Mindfulness-trained trip leaders + local WFR-certified guides
Real conversations and deep connection—no forced small talk
All-inclusive logistics—from meals and tips to permits and gear
Pre- and post-trip integration support, including an 8-week preparation program and a 6-week guided post-trip meditation program
Personal support talk to real people before, during, and after your journey
WHO ARE ROOT TRAVELERS?
In Transition, On Purpose
They're moving through a season of change—career shifts, empty nests, personal reinvention—and they’re doing it with curiosity and heart.
Depth Seekers
They’re not interested in surface-level travel. They crave meaning, connection, and experiences that touch the soul.
Courageously Curious
They may not have all the answers, but they’re open. To new places, new people, new ways of being. That openness is their compass.
Vibrantly Genuine
Often women in their 30s to 60s, they show up fully and authentically—real, kind, brave, and wonderfully human.
Active Explorers of Inner + Outer Worlds
They love to move—through landscapes, conversations, and inner terrain—with a sense of wonder and grounded presence.
Our group trips are more than just getaways—they’re intentional journeys designed to foster connection, curiosity, and growth.
Whether you're hiking ancient trails, practicing mindfulness under wide-open skies, or sharing stories over a meal, you’ll be surrounded by kindred spirits who value meaningful experiences and grounded adventure.
Come as you are. Leave feeling renewed, inspired, and part of something bigger.
ROOT ISN’T YOUR AVERAGE TRAVEL COMPANY, BUT DON’T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT.
What root travelers
are saying :
There’s something powerful about hearing how a journey changed someone—not just the places they went, but how they felt along the way.
From deep connections to life-shifting insights, these stories reflect the heart of what we do: helping people travel with meaning, mindfulness, and joy.
