This 8-day pilgrimage through Jordan is designed for those seeking a deeply spiritual journey, exploring revered sites central to Christian history, from biblical landscapes to ancient churches and the very places where prophets and apostles walked.
Upon your arrival at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, you'll receive a warm greeting from our representative who will assist with all airport formalities. From there, we’ll transfer you to your hotel in Amman, a city with ancient roots, providing a serene start to your spiritual exploration. Enjoy dinner and settle in for your first overnight stay.
After breakfast, meet your guide in the hotel lobby to begin your exploration of Amman, a city with layers of history. We'll start at the Amman Citadel, where you can contemplate the remnants of various civilizations. While largely Roman and Umayyad, the site's long history places it firmly in a region steeped in biblical narratives. You'll see the Temple of Hercules et le Byzantine Church, offering glimpses into the religious shifts over centuries.
Next, we visit the impressive Roman Theatre, a grand 2nd-century amphitheater. Its sheer scale reminds us of the widespread Roman presence during the time of early Christianity.
After a local lunch, we journey to Pella, an archaeological treasure nestled in the Jordan Valley and one of the ancient Decapolis cities mentioned in the New Testament. Pella holds deep scriptural significance, associated with biblical locations like Mahanaim et Penuel, tied to the story of Jacob. Early Christians are also believed to have fled Jerusalem to Pella before its destruction in 70 AD. You’ll explore the ruins of Roman baths, a fountain house, a theatre, and remnants of an Islamic quarter, all within a landscape echoing with biblical history. We return to Amman for dinner and overnight.
Following breakfast, our spiritual journey takes us to the tranquil village of Anjara in the Gilead hills. According to strong Christian tradition, this sacred place provided refuge for Jesus, Mary, and the disciples in a cave during their travels. We will visit the Church of Our Lady of the Mountain, a revered pilgrimage site officially recognized by the Vatican for the Millennium celebrations in 2000, offering a powerful sense of connection to the Holy Family.
We then proceed to Jerash, stopping en route for a delightful lunch at The Lebanese House Restaurant.
Our exploration of Jerash unveils one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. While Roman in origin, Jerash's remarkable preservation, earning it the title "Pompeii of the East," allows us to visualize the urban environment that existed across the Roman Empire during the early Christian era. You'll marvel at the Temple of Artemis, the Nymphaeum, grand colonnaded streets, and ancient theatres, reflecting the grandeur and daily life that would have surrounded early Christian communities. We return to your Amman hotel for dinner and overnight.
Following breakfast, embark on a profound spiritual journey to Béthanie au-delà du Jourdain (Al-Maghtas), the universally revered site on the eastern bank of the Jordan River believed to be where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. Here, you will discover ancient baptismal pools, the ruins of early Christian churches, and the cave traditionally associated with John the Baptist on La colline d'Élie—where, according to tradition, the Prophet Elijah ascended to heaven. This site offers an unparalleled connection to the very foundations of Christian faith.
Our journey continues to Mont Nébo, the deeply significant place where Moses is believed to have seen the Promised Land before his death. From this sacred vantage point, on clear days, you can truly absorb the sweeping views over the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and even glimpse the spires of Jerusalem, reflecting on the arduous journey and the fulfillment of God's promise.
After a reflective lunch, we head to Madaba, famously known as the "City of Mosaics." Our key visit is to Église Saint-Georges, home to the extraordinary 6th-century Mosaic Map of the Holy Land. This intricate map, crafted from countless tesserae, is not only an artistic masterpiece but also an invaluable historical and geographical guide to biblical lands, allowing pilgrims to visualize ancient towns and regions. We return to your hotel in Amman for dinner and overnight.
Enjoy breakfast, then check out from your Amman hotel as we embark on another day of discovery. We depart for Khirbet Al-Mukhayyat, believed by many to be the biblical town of Nebo. Here, we'll explore three beautifully preserved 6th-century Byzantine churches, y compris le Église des Saints Lot et Procope with its magnificent mosaics depicting biblical scenes, offering a vivid glimpse into early Christian art and devotion.
Our journey then takes us to Mukawir (Machaerus), the dramatic hilltop fortress where John the Baptist was imprisoned and tragically beheaded at the behest of Herod Antipas. This site offers powerful panoramic views of the Dead Sea and provides a sobering backdrop for contemplating the life and martyrdom of John the Baptist.
After lunch, we proceed to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Umm al-Rasas, a place of significant Christian archaeological importance. Known for its extensive Roman, Byzantine, and early Islamic remains, the highlight is undoubtedly the Église Saint-Étienne. Its impressive mosaic floor depicts towns of the Holy Land and surrounding regions, serving as a testament to the vibrancy of early Christian communities and their connections across the landscape.
We then travel to the awe-inspiring city of Pétra. Check into your hotel, and enjoy dinner and overnight stay.
Start your day with breakfast before embarking on an unforgettable exploration of Pétra, the legendary "Rose Red City." While often celebrated for its Nabatean architecture, Petra's history also intertwines with biblical narratives, as it was part of the ancient Edomite kingdom mentioned in the Old Testament. You'll enter through the Siq—a narrow, winding gorge—which dramatically opens before the stunning Trésorerie (Al-Khazneh), Petra’s most iconic monument. Discover royal tombs, temples, the Roman Theater, and other incredible rock-carved structures that speak to an ancient world.
Lunch will be served at the Basin Restaurant inside Petra. Afterward, those who wish may undertake the rewarding hike to the Monastère (Ad-Deir), a massive structure carved high into the rock, offering spectacular views and a sense of enduring history.
In the late afternoon, we continue our journey to the mesmerizing desert landscape of Wadi Rum for an overnight stay at a traditional desert camp. Enjoy a truly unique and traditional dinner under the vast, starlit sky.
After breakfast at the desert camp, embark on a captivating 2-hour jeep safari through the stunning desert of Wadi Rum. You'll explore iconic sites like Printemps de Lawrence, the imposing Les sept piliers de la sagesse, and ancient rock inscriptions at Anfashieh, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty that evokes timeless landscapes.
We then drive towards the Mer morte, stopping for lunch at the Panorama Restaurant, which offers breathtaking views of this unique natural wonder—the lowest point on Earth.
Arrive at your Dead Sea resort for a truly relaxing afternoon. Experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in the salty waters, known for their therapeutic properties. This provides a peaceful conclusion to your journey through ancient lands. Enjoy dinner and overnight at the resort.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, reflecting on the profound experiences of your pilgrimage. Afterward, transfer to Aéroport d'Amman for your departure flight, carrying with you the deep spiritual insights and cherished memories of your meaningful journey through Jordan.
