Classic Jordan tour: Amman, Petra & the Dead Sea

This morning your driver will take you to the Roman site of Jerash, where a local guide will show you around the ruins. You'll see the 2nd-century Hadrian's Arch, the Forum's oval colonnade and the columns of the Temple of Artemis. You then have the afternoon to explore Amman under your own steam, perhaps visiting its Roman theater, art galleries and museums.

An early start this morning as your private driver will escort you on a five to six-hour drive down the 5,000-year-old King's Highway to Petra. En route you will stop to see Mount Nebo, with its spectacular views over the Dead Sea; the Christian mosaics of Madaba; and the crusader castle of Kerak.

Today you will enjoy a full day tour of Petra. For the first two or three hours you'll have a private guide with you to show you the city's main highlights and tell you all about the ancient city's history and the lives of those who made it their home. You then have some time to explore further on your own. Bring your walking shoes and be prepared for an inspiring but energetic day.

One day is never enough to fully take in the wonders of Petra, so you have an extra day to explore under your own steam. Admire the intricacy of the rock carvings, explore the Royal Tombs cut into the dusty pink rock face and see the mosaics at the site of the Byzantine church. You could also climb to the Monastery or the High Place of Sacrifice.

After breakfast you'll be collected by your driver from the hotel for the transfer to the Dead Sea. The journey will take most of the day as you enjoy a private guided tour of the vast, red rock and sand landscape of Wadi Rum en route. You'll see the remains of a Nabataean temple, pass through the settlement of Rum and take a walk in a narrow canyon whose walls are etched with ancient Thamudic inscriptions.

You have the day free to relax by the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. A visit wouldn't be complete without spending time floating almost weightless on the water, famous for its high salinity levels. You could also indulge in a massage or spa treatment at your hotel — the area is well known for its healing practices.

You have an early start today ready for your private transfer to Amman Airport, where you board your onward flight.