Upon arrival and after you have cleared customs and immigration, an AmaWaterways’ representative will meet you and transfer you to the 5-star St. Regis Amman, now an established landmark in Jordan’s capital city.

Once part of the Roman Empire, Jordan is home to a legacy of Roman architectural treasures. Just outside the city is the extremely well-preserved ancient city of Jerash, dating back 6,500 years and considered one of the best examples of Roman influence in the Middle East. After exploring this historic site, enjoy lunch at the award-winning Lebanese House Restaurant, which offers a unique atmosphere. In the afternoon, tour Amman’s Old City neighborhood with its rolling hills, historic sites, and colorful markets. Afterwards, browse a sweet shop and sample kanfeh, an ultra-creamy Middle East dessert. (B, L)

Venture west to Madaba, “The City of Mosaics,” known for its famous mosaics—beautiful reminders of the Byzantine era. Afterwards, visit the Dead Sea, one of the world’s most intriguing natural wonders. Situated at approximately 1,500 feet (460 meters) below sea level, the Dead Sea is one of the world’s saltiest bodies of water, and its healing waters have been sought after for more than 2,500 years. After lunch at a seaside resort, enjoy some time to relax and go for an easy swim—or float, due to the natural buoyancy because of the high salt content of the sea. Afterward, head south, arriving in Petra in the early evening. (B, L)

After breakfast, enjoy the ancient city of Petra, the “Rose City.” Visit the Siq, a narrow passageway nearly three-quarters of a mile long carved into sheer rock walls. While the Treasury is the most well-known ruin in Petra, it’s not the only one. You will also see the 4,000 spectator Theater, the Courts, Qasr Bint Pharaoun, Temple of the Winged Lion and other monuments. After lunch at a local guest house, head to Wadi Rum with its red-pink, stunning natural arches and mountains, and prehistoric rock engravings. Often referred to as the “Valley of the Moon,” it is a romantic and timeless place. Enjoy a Jeep tour and traverse the unique desert landscape, featuring dramatic sandstone and basalt mountains, making it one of the most beautiful deserts. Return to Petra and experience an authentic dinner at a Bedouin tent. Discover the fascinating culture of these nomadic people who have lived in the desert for thousands of years. (B, L, D)

Drive north to Mount Nebo, one of the most revered sites in Jordan where Moses first viewed the Promised Land. After a local lunch nearby, return to Amman and Queen Alia International Airport for your flight to Cairo.

Fly from Cairo to Tel Aviv, Israel in the afternoon. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by an AmaWaterways representative, and transferred to Jerusalem, where you will check into your hotel. (B)

Tour the Jewish quarter and visit the Byzantine Cardo. Not far from here, lies the Western Wall, which surrounds the Temple Mount, the holiest site for Jews. After lunch, visit the Israel Museum that houses the Dead Sea Scrolls. Then follow Via Dolorosa, the path where Jesus walked to his crucifixion, arriving at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Jesus was said to have been crucified. (B, L)

Drive through the Judean Desert to Masada. Enjoy a cable car ride to the top, where you will explore the ancient ruins of Herod’s 2,055-year-old palace fortress. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Dead Sea where you can enjoy swimming and lunch. On your return to Jerusalem, visit Qumran, a historic archeological site where the legendary Dead Sea Scrolls, a collection of ancient Jewish texts, were found. (B, L)

Take a short motorcoach ride to the West Bank to visit Bethlehem, King David’s hometown, and Jesus’ birthplace. Tour Manger Square and the UNESCO-designated Church of the Nativity, built above the cave where Jesus was born. Continue underground to the Gihon Spring, the major water source of Jerusalem for over 1,000 years and crucial to the city’s survival. From Jerusalem, venture to Tel Aviv to tour one of the most vibrant cities in the world offering sandy Mediterranean beaches with a world-class nightlife, a buzzing cultural scene and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Then, embark on a colorful culinary journey to Carmel Market, also called the shuk, the largest, most beautiful and happening market in Israel. Continue the day with a visit to Old Jaffa, an 8000-year-old port city, which showcases Tel Aviv’s urban tapestry. (B, L)

Bid farewell to Jerusalem and prepare for your flight home. (B)