To give you an idea of the difficulty of our adventures, we've ranked our activities and adventures according to three different ratings: easy, moderate, and challenging. We take many factors into consideration in these ratings, including distances covered, terrain, altitude, weather conditions and vehicle support.
Suitable for most people in good health. These trips generally include short hikes or / and cycling trips on good paths with minimal uphills.
A reasonable level of fitness is required, as these trips can require sustained endurance levels along steep trails and uneven paths. Canyoning trips may include few abseils (rappels), long hikes and occasional climbs. Biking trips include a series of up and downhills but nothing too strenuous. A support vehicle will be always available so weary travelers will be able to hitch a ride. A typical trekking day would be walking 4 to 5 hours a day including a 2 hour ascending a mountain.
These trips are physically demanding and best suited for strong people with high endurance levels. Days can be long, often along difficult trails, in remote regions. Canyoning trips may include several abseils (rappels) and extensive climbs/hikes through steep terrains. Biking trips will have support vehicles nearby, but sometimes without one. travelers may be required to carry a backpack.
Day 1: Wadi Ibn Hammad and Karak Castle' Trip
6KM / 4 HOURS
BRING APPROPRIATE SHOES FOR WADING / SPLASHING IN THE RIVER
We begin our descent into the Wadi Ibn Hammad by following a warm water stream down into the strange and wonderful world of the gorge. Springs of mineral water drip from the walls and hanging gardens sprout from every crack in the sandstone. Dozens of rare plants thrive in this microclimate, including scented Mediterranean Myrtle and wild orchids, as well as more common species such as sugarcane and palm trees. As you descend deeper, a cold water tributary joins the main stream, the rock walls close in, and daylight all but disappears. A mass of stalactites clings to an overhanging rock, touching the opposite wall and forming a solid bridge across the canyon. Just beyond this you climb across a boulder, dropping down the far side with the help of a rope and a bit of scrambling, and then walk the final stretch to where the gorge opens up. Here you can take a rest in the sunshine before heading back up the way you came. Bring appropriate shoes, and expect wet feet as well as lots of fun!
Inclusions
Meals
Snack lunch and Water;
Make sure you have a good breakfast at your home/hotel. We will provide you with a simple snack lunch (2 Sandwiches, vegetable and fruit), we'll also provide each one with three liters of water to carry along. We very much recommend you bring some dates or dried fruits for a good and fast energy source, but make sure you put them in a water-proof container/bag (the kitchen zip-lock bag can be a solution)
Entrance
To Karak castle..
Transport
Transportation from the meeting point and back;
Bus, your feet and our ropes =)
Guides
Two instructors and two assistants. This could vary depending on group size.
By John Cutay
"After more than three weeks in the Middle East, I went back to France two days ago and I must say it sucks so much... I feel nostalgic of all this good time I spent either in Jordan or in Syria. This trek led with charisma by Atef was one of my best moments of all my staying ! I really enjoyed it and actually i think i should go back to Jordan for other treks... I'm especially interested about the Wadi Rum (everybody who went there speak with emotions of it)."2011-08-29
By Richard Soghier
"its worth redoing. I returned quite enthused, and felt few years younger." 2008-08-19
By Zina Maani
"Im 29 years old and i can say i never knew such beautiful places existed in my own Country..thanks Terhaal for the best experience ever! You guys have great relationships with the locals, they were very helpful and curtious. I suggest providing a photographer during the trip to take photos and send them back to the group - instead of us tryin to take photos and missing out on the experience in addition to wetting the cameras :)"2009-05-16
By Brooke Lane
"Our trip was great. Experience of the guides was obvious. We felt confident in our safety and the guides ability the entire trip.(2 women travelling with 2 young children) I look forward to taking more trips with Terhaal in the near future. Terhaal went above and beyond in helping make this trip possible - from meeting at my convenience to make financial arrangements to making sure our airline lost bags made it to our next hotel. Thanks for a great trip. The pics were great!"2009-01-27
By Dave Lopez
"Thank you for working with me and setting me up on the trip with Atef. Atef was a great guide and pleasure to be with. I look forward to my next trip with Terhaal and Atef. Thanks again."2009-10-10
Day 1: Wadi Ibn Hammad and Karak Castle' Trip
6KM / 4 HOURS
BRING APPROPRIATE SHOES FOR WADING / SPLASHING IN THE RIVER
We begin our descent into the Wadi Ibn Hammad by following a warm water stream down into the strange and wonderful world of the gorge. Springs of mineral water drip from the walls and hanging gardens sprout from every crack in the sandstone. Dozens of rare plants thrive in this microclimate, including scented Mediterranean Myrtle and wild orchids, as well as more common species such as sugarcane and palm trees. As you descend deeper, a cold water tributary joins the main stream, the rock walls close in, and daylight all but disappears. A mass of stalactites clings to an overhanging rock, touching the opposite wall and forming a solid bridge across the canyon. Just beyond this you climb across a boulder, dropping down the far side with the help of a rope and a bit of scrambling, and then walk the final stretch to where the gorge opens up. Here you can take a rest in the sunshine before heading back up the way you came. Bring appropriate shoes, and expect wet feet as well as lots of fun!
Sorry, there are no departure dates set for this trip.
Inclusions
Meals
Snack lunch and Water;
Make sure you have a good breakfast at your home/hotel. We will provide you with a simple snack lunch (2 Sandwiches, vegetable and fruit), we'll also provide each one with three liters of water to carry along. We very much recommend you bring some dates or dried fruits for a good and fast energy source, but make sure you put them in a water-proof container/bag (the kitchen zip-lock bag can be a solution)
Entrance
To Karak castle..
Transport
Transportation from the meeting point and back;
Bus, your feet and our ropes =)
Guides
Two instructors and two assistants. This could vary depending on group size.
By John Cutay
By Richard Soghier
By Zina Maani
By Brooke Lane
By Dave Lopez
Welcome to Terhaal Adventures. We've designed these journeys to help you explore the very best of Jordan. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any questions about the trip. We're here to help. Enjoy!
Itinerary Disclaimer
The holiday itinerary set out below offers a good overview of the trip, but should be taken as a general guide only. We're continually improving these tours, and it's possible we will adjust the itinerary to take advantage of new opportunities or to avoid adverse weather or difficulties with transportation. We recommend that you print out a copy of the trip details a couple of days prior to departure, in case there have been any changes that may affect your plans.
The information in this document does not form part of the contract between the client and Terhaal Adventures.
Meeting Point
Amman at the Safeway Stores parking lot 7th Circle.
Meeting Time: between 6:30 AM, At 7:00 AM sharp we leave.
Being there on time is essential, especially if you don't want to be left behind!
One reason why we leave early is to have the maximum time of daylight in order not to rush our adventure and have more time for leisure. The other reason is to have spare time in case of unexpected delays.
Finishing Point
Same as the meeting point above, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you!) but if for any reason you are unable to begin your trip as scheduled, please contact us immediately at one of the following numbers:
+962(0)77 751 5919
+962(0)79 879 5680
Detailed Itinerary
6KM / 4 HOURS
BRING APPROPRIATE SHOES FOR WADING / SPLASHING IN THE RIVER
We begin our descent into the Wadi Ibn Hammad by following a warm water stream down into the strange and wonderful world of the gorge. Springs of mineral water drip from the walls and hanging gardens sprout from every crack in the sandstone. Dozens of rare plants thrive in this microclimate, including scented Mediterranean Myrtle and wild orchids, as well as more common species such as sugarcane and palm trees. As you descend deeper, a cold water tributary joins the main stream, the rock walls close in, and daylight all but disappears. A mass of stalactites clings to an overhanging rock, touching the opposite wall and forming a solid bridge across the canyon. Just beyond this you climb across a boulder, dropping down the far side with the help of a rope and a bit of scrambling, and then walk the final stretch to where the gorge opens up. Here you can take a rest in the sunshine before heading back up the way you came. Bring appropriate shoes, and expect wet feet as well as lots of fun!
Inclusions
Meals
Snack lunch and Water;
Make sure you have a good breakfast at your home/hotel. We will provide you with a simple snack lunch (2 Sandwiches, vegetable and fruit), we'll also provide each one with three liters of water to carry along. We very much recommend you bring some dates or dried fruits for a good and fast energy source, but make sure you put them in a water-proof container/bag (the kitchen zip-lock bag can be a solution)
Entrance
To Karak castle..
Transport
Transportation from the meeting point and back;
Bus, your feet and our ropes =)
Guides
Two instructors and two assistants. This could vary depending on group size.
During the trip your baggage will be carried by bus and by 4WD vehicles. The only baggage weight limit is that imposed by the airline. However, we ask that you restrict your luggage to one main bag plus a small daypack. In general we recommend that you travel as light as possible as this will make transiting between airports and carrying your bag to hotel rooms a lot easier for you. You may find that wheeled luggage is more convenient on a trip of this nature.
Temperatures in Jordan can be hot, with little rain from late spring through until late autumn. The heat can become extreme during the summer months of July and August. In the months of November to March it can be cool at night, particularly in the desert where the temperatures can drop to 5C or even less. Even in the hot months out in the desert it can get cold at night.
Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country and tends to be quite conservative, so you should dress accordingly. As a general guideline, shoulders and knees should be covered at all times.
A light water and windproof jacket is useful and a hat is essential. From mid November to late February, a sleeping bag is essential for your nights in the desert. At other times a sleeping sheet will suffice. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the heat.
Check List
> Travel documents: passport, visa, travel insurance, air tickets etc.
> Health requirements arranged
> Money: travelers cheques/cash/credit card
> Money pouch
> First aid kit
> Backpack to carry your personal needs during the day(the type with a lower-back pad support and waist strap are very much recommended)
> Alarm clock and torch/flashlight (headlights are best)
> Insect repellent
> Ear plugs can be useful
> Tampons can be difficult to buy in rural areas or in the desert
> Lock for your bag
> Bedding - a bed sheet to be used over the mattress provided in the desert- the travel bed sack is even better
> Sleeping bag if you wish - mattresses and blankets are available in the desert
> Small travel towel - for use in the desert
> Your personal hygiene kit
> Toilet paper
> Eye shades
> Hiking shoes
> Foot powder or Vaseline can be useful against blisters.
> Sandals
> Light clothes; long sleeves and light colors are advisable in summer time
> A hat or head dress that also covers the neck
> Warm clothes for cooler nights
> Sun protection lotion
> Dates, fruits, or candy bars (to provide instant calories during outdoor activities)
> Water flask
> Insect repellent
Safety
Jordan is generally considered a safe country. There is very little petty crime here, especially in rural areas. However, we recommend you take normal precautions to ensure your safety and that of your belongings, as you would for any other destination. Take good care of your passport, wallet, and other valuables. In crowded streets, keep your bag closed and in front of you. There will be free time during this trip - you can always ask your local guides for their advice about where to go and what to avoid. Please make sure you have adequate footwear and clothing for the hiking trips you will be taking.
Hospitality
Jordanians are famously friendly and welcoming towards guests, especially in rural areas. It is quite normal for Jordanians to invite foreigners in to drink tea or have a meal in the family home. Meeting the local people in spontaneous encounters of this sort is one of the great pleasures of travelling in Jordan.
Ramadan
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims refrain from eating or drinking during daylight hours. Business hours are shortened, including opening hours at all tourist attractions. Alcohol is not permitted during daylight hours [except in 5-Star Hotels] and many restaurants will be closed. While you definitely need to expect some delays and inconveniences during this period, the month of Ramadan is a fantastic time to travel to Jordan as you'll be able to participate in the feasting and holiday atmosphere that follows the breaking of the fast as sunset each day. You'll also get to taste special sweets that are only baked for Ramadan. You do not have to fast, and no-one will expect you to; however, you should try to eat and drink discreetly, if possible, rather than in crowded public places.
Visas
Most nationalities are able to obtain a single-entry visa at the airport, at the land borders, or at the port in Aqaba, valid for 14 days and costing JOD 40. However, you should consult the Jordanian embassy in your home country to make sure you are not subject to any special visa requirements.
Departure tax
You will be required to pay a JOD 5 Departure Tax upon leaving Jordan (does not generally apply when exiting through airports, but travellers on some budget airlines may be required to pay it).
Money Exchange
The Jordanian Dinar is fixed at a rate of JOD 0.709 against USD 1.
Spending Money
It is difficult to say how much spending money you should bring as each person is different! However, you'll need some cash for any meals not included in the itinerary, plus snacks, drinks, gifts etc.
Emergency Funds
It is a good idea to have access to extra funds in case of any emergency (urgent healthcare / travel costs etc.). This is highly unlikely, of course, but best to be prepared.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance (and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number) has been seen by your trip leader. If your insurance is provided through your credit card, your tour leader will require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt or credit card statement) with the credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Emergency Contact
In case of an emergency Terhaal's Amman Office can be reached on -
+962(0)77 751 5919
+962(0)79 879 5680
+962(0)79 778 4433
+962(0)79 5536351
Alternatively you can email [email protected]
Your Fellow Travelers
Group trips entail all the pleasures and occassionally some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travelers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the group's needs and preferences. Patience and flexibility really help to create a relaxed and happy atmosphere. Please remember that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, please don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and again that the best trips are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Many thanks in advance!
Responsible Travel
We believe in low impact or ‘positive impact' tourism. Broadly speaking, this means that we try to minimize the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit, while maximising the positive aspects of the encounter. Jordan is a small country with few natural resources. Water scarcity is a big issue in the region, so please go easy on the water. Terhaal designs these tours in a way that maximizes benefits for local communities. Whenever possible we hire local staff in the areas where we operate, and our guests stay in locally owned hotels. We also include some volunteering activities where appropriate, such helping farmers to harvest their olives. Terhaal also contributes towards efforts that strengthen environmental advocacy and the environmental education of Jordan's children.
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make your destinations such special places. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession. It is also unsafe to drink alcohol while out hiking / cycling, so please wait until you're back at the hotel to enjoy a drink.
Feedback
After your trip we hope you will send us your photos and any stories or feedback you may have. Your feedback not only helps us to improve the trips, but also helps other travelers to decide on the right tour for them. We would appreciate it if you could take a couple of minutes to complete our feedback form, just follow this link: http://www.terhaal.com/feedback-form
Our blog
Our blog - ‘Treks & Trails of Jordan' - is a collection of stories posted by a variety of people that reflect the natural, environmental and cultural aspects of Jordan. It is also a great way to give feedback and to share your Jordan experience with others. All you need to do is write one or two paragraphs about your trip with Terhaal, attach some photos if available and send it to us at this email: team[at]terhaal.com
You can find the blog here -
blog.terhaal.com
Single Travelers
Our trips are designed with shared accommodation in mind whereby single travelers are paired with individuals of the same sex in twin shared accommodation. Forced singles are free of charge.
Single accommodation is available on request pending availability.
