Best of King's Highway from Amman to Petra Private Tour

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Amman

   Your journey begins with pickup from your hotel or residence in Amman, where we will have a friendly introduction and a brief overview of the day’s itinerary. If you wish, we can make a short stop at Starbucks so you can pick up your favourite coffee before leaving the city. From there, we begin our scenic drive along the historic King’s Highway in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi and phone chargers. Relax and enjoy your coffee and selected snacks while taking in the landscapes along the way. Complimentary bottled water and soft drinks are also provided throughout the journey.

   Pass by without stopping

2. Mount Nebo

   Our first stop is the famous Mount Nebo, located about 710 meters above sea level. According to the Old Testament, this is the place where the prophet Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death. For centuries it has been an important pilgrimage site for believers and visitors alike. Today the site is known for its beautifully preserved Byzantine mosaics inside the memorial church, as well as its breathtaking panoramic views over the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and on clear days even Jerusalem.

   90 minutes here · Admission included

3. Umm ar-Rasas

   Next we visit the remarkable archaeological site of Umm ar-Rasas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with remains from the Roman, Byzantine, and early Islamic periods. One of its highlights is the magnificent mosaic floor of the Church of St. Stephen, considered the largest mosaic floor discovered in Jordan. The site is also famous for its mysterious Stylite Tower, once used by early Christian ascetics who lived and prayed atop pillars in isolation.

   105 minutes here

4. Karak Castle

   Continuing south along the King’s Highway, we arrive at the imposing Karak Castle, one of the largest Crusader castles in the Levant. Construction began in the 1140s, and the fortress soon became a strategic stronghold during the Crusader period. It was famously besieged by Saladin in 1183 before eventually falling to his forces. Today you can explore its massive stone halls, underground corridors, and defensive towers while learning about the dramatic history of medieval warfare in the region.

   120 minutes here · Admission included

5. Our journey continues to the fascinating Nabataean site of Khirbet edh-Dharih, located along the ancient trade routes that once connected Arabia with the Mediterranean world. Here you will discover the remains of a beautifully decorated Nabataean temple complex, known for its finely carved stone façade and architectural details that reflect the artistic traditions of the Nabataeans.

   80 minutes here

6. Dana Nature Reserve

   We then pass through the spectacular landscapes of the Dana Biosphere Reserve, the largest nature reserve in Jordan. Covering more than 300 square kilometres, Dana is home to hundreds of plant species, numerous birds, and a variety of mammals. The reserve’s dramatic scenery—deep valleys, rugged mountains, and colourful rock formations—makes this stretch of the journey one of the most beautiful drives in Jordan.

   90 minutes here

7. Shobak Castle

   Perched high above the surrounding mountains is Shobak Castle, also known historically as Montreal. Built in 1115 by the Crusader king Baldwin I of Jerusalem, it became one of the earliest Crusader fortresses in the region. The castle later fell to the forces of Saladin and was expanded during the Mamluk period. Today visitors can explore its impressive ruins while enjoying sweeping views across the surrounding valleys.

   60 minutes here · Admission included

8. Al-Beidha

   Before reaching Petra, we stop at Little Petra, a smaller but equally fascinating Nabataean site known for its narrow rock-cut canyon and carved façades. Nearby lies Al Beidha, one of the most important Neolithic archaeological sites in Jordan. The remains of this ancient village date back as early as 7200 BC, offering a glimpse into life thousands of years before the Nabataean civilisation.

   60 minutes here

9. Our final historical stop is the ruined Crusader fortress of Vaux Moise near Wadi Musa. Built in 1116, it served as an outpost connected to Shobak Castle and helped control the surrounding trade routes. Although smaller than other Crusader fortresses, its strategic location and dramatic history make it a fascinating final chapter in the story of medieval Jordan.

   60 minutes here

10. Petra - Wadi Musa

    At the end of the journey, we will drop you off at your hotel in Petra. After a full day travelling along the historic King’s Highway, you will have explored some of Jordan’s most remarkable archaeological sites, landscapes, and monuments before arriving at one of the world’s greatest ancient cities.

    Pass by without stopping

Where it starts and ends

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 3 travelers per booking

Operated by

Ancient Jordan

Know before you go

• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Photos