10-Day Central Middle East Northern/Scenic Route: Lebanon & Jordan in January
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the heart of the Levant, where ancient history meets stunning natural beauty. This 10-day multi-country itinerary focuses on the 'Northern Route' of the Central Middle East, showcasing the majestic mountains of Lebanon and the iconic desert scenery of Jordan. Designed with families in mind, this route balances awe-inspiring landmarks with comfortable travel paces and kid-friendly exploration.
Traveling in January offers a unique perspective: the Lebanese mountains are draped in snow, perfect for a cozy winter atmosphere, while Jordan’s cooler temperatures make hiking through the Rose City of Petra and the sands of Wadi Rum far more comfortable than the scorching summer months. Prepare for a mix of alpine fresh air and ancient archaeological wonders.
Day 1: Beirut, Lebanon - Arrival & Coastal Views
Beirut Corniche Stroll
Start your journey with a family walk along the Mediterranean. The sea air is refreshing in January, and the Raouche Rocks (Pigeon Rocks) offer a stunning backdrop for your first vacation photos.
Lunch at Hamra Street
Enjoy a traditional Lebanese mezze lunch. Many cafes are heated and offer a vibrant, kid-friendly atmosphere where you can sample fresh hummus and manakish.
National Museum of Beirut
Explore Lebanon's rich history in this well-curated museum. The building is climate-controlled and features fascinating sarcophagi that usually captivate older children and history buffs alike.
Downtown Beirut & Zaitunay Bay
Witness the beautiful architecture of the Nejmeh Square and the Blue Mosque before heading to the modern Zaitunay Bay for a harbor-side dinner.
Day 2: Mount Lebanon, Lebanon - Snow & Grottoes
Jeita Grotto Exploration
Visit this finalist for the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The lower grotto involves a short boat ride on an underground lake, which is a magical experience for children.
Cable Car to Our Lady of Lebanon
Take the Teleferique up to Harissa. The mountain views of the bay of Jounieh are spectacular, especially with the crisp winter visibility.
Snow Play at Faraya/Mzaar
Drive higher into the mountains for some winter fun. January is peak ski season; even if you don't ski, building a snowman in the Lebanese mountains is a must-do.
Cozy Mountain Dinner
Warm up with a bowl of 'Shorbat Adas' (Lentil Soup) in a traditional stone-walled mountain restaurant with a roaring fireplace.
Day 3: Bsharri, Lebanon - The Sacred Cedars
Cedars of God Forest
Walk through these ancient, majestic trees under a blanket of snow. This UNESCO site is the symbol of Lebanon and offers a serene, scenic landscape for nature lovers.
Qadisha Valley Overlook
Stop at one of the valley overlooks to see the dramatic cliffs and ancient monasteries carved into the rock. It is one of the most scenic gorges in the Middle East.
Gibran Museum
Visit the museum dedicated to the famous poet Kahlil Gibran, located in an old monastery with stunning views of the valley below.
Overnight in Bsharri
Enjoy the quiet mountain atmosphere of Bsharri, a charming town that feels worlds away from the hustle of Beirut.
Day 4: Beirut to Amman (Lebanon/Jordan) - Crossing the Levant
Leisurely Beirut Breakfast
Enjoy a final Lebanese breakfast of labneh and olives before heading to the airport for your short 1-hour flight to Jordan.
Flight to Amman
Take a direct flight to Queen Alia International Airport. This is the most efficient way to cross borders between these two countries.
Check-in & Rainbow Street
Arrive at your hotel in Amman and head to Rainbow Street for a walk. The area is famous for its colorful umbrellas, local crafts, and family-friendly vibe.
Dinner at Hashem Restaurant
Eat like a local at this legendary spot. It’s casual, affordable, and kids will love the fresh falafel and flatbreads.
Day 5: Amman to Jerash, Jordan - Roman Grandeur
Amman Citadel
Visit the historic Citadel for a panoramic view of the 'White City.' The Temple of Hercules ruins are impressive and offer plenty of space for kids to explore.
Drive to Jerash
A 50-minute drive north takes you to one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the world, nestled in a scenic green valley.
Exploring Ancient Gerasa
Walk through the Oval Plaza and the Cardo Maximus. The scale of the ruins is immense, and the lack of summer heat makes the outdoor walk very pleasant.
Sunset at Ajloun Castle
Visit the nearby Ajloun Castle, a Muslim fortress that offers incredible views over the Jordan Valley and the mountains of Galilee.
Day 6: The Dead Sea, Jordan - Floating & Spas
Drive to the Jordan Valley
Descend to the lowest point on Earth. The temperature here is significantly warmer in January than in Amman, making it a perfect winter escape.
The Dead Sea Float
Experience the weightlessness of floating in the hyper-saline water. Kids will find the 'no sinking' rule fascinating, but remember to keep the water out of eyes!
Dead Sea Mud Bath
Apply the mineral-rich black mud for a natural spa treatment. Most resorts have heated pools for a comfortable swim afterward.
Sunset Dinner by the Sea
Watch the sun set over the Judean Mountains across the water while enjoying a buffet dinner at your resort.
Day 7: Petra, Jordan - The Rose City
The Siq Entrance
Walk through the narrow, 1.2km canyon (the Siq). The towering cliffs create a dramatic entrance that builds anticipation for the main event.
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
Emerging from the Siq to see the Treasury carved into the red rock is a bucket-list moment. In January, the crowds are much smaller than in spring.
Street of Facades & Royal Tombs
Explore the vast archaeological park. Rent a donkey or carriage for younger kids who might find the extensive walking challenging.
Petra by Night
If your visit falls on a Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday, experience the Treasury lit by thousands of candles (check weather conditions first).
Day 8: Petra & Little Petra, Jordan - Canyons & Caravans
The Monastery Hike
For active families, the hike up 800 steps to the Monastery (Ad-Deir) is worth it for the scenic views and the massive facade at the top.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
Visit this smaller, less crowded site nearby. It was a caravan station for the Nabataeans and features rare surviving ceiling frescoes.
Travel to Wadi Rum
Drive two hours south into the heart of the desert. The landscape shifts from rocky mountains to red sand dunes and towering monoliths.
Traditional Zarb Dinner
Experience a Bedouin barbecue where the meat and vegetables are cooked in an underground pit. A fascinating and delicious culinary experience.
Day 9: Wadi Rum, Jordan - Martian Landscapes
4x4 Jeep Safari
Take a tour of the red dunes, Lawrence of Arabia’s spring, and natural rock bridges. Riding in the back of an open Jeep is often the highlight for children.
Bedouin Tea in a Tent
Stop at a traditional tent for some sweet sage tea. It’s a great way to learn about the hospitable Bedouin culture in a relaxed setting.
Camel Trek at Sunset
Enjoy a slow-paced trek across the sand as the colors of the desert change with the setting sun. January sunsets are particularly vibrant.
Stargazing in the Desert
Wadi Rum has minimal light pollution. On a clear January night, the Milky Way is visible, and many camps offer guided telescope sessions.
Day 10: Amman, Jordan - Souvenirs & Departure
Return Drive to Amman
Make the scenic 4-hour drive back north through the Desert Highway or the slightly longer, but more beautiful, King’s Highway.
Souk Al-Balad Shopping
Visit the downtown markets for last-minute gifts like Dead Sea products, spices, and embroidered textiles.
Final Knafeh at Habibah
Join the queue at this famous Amman window for a warm, cheesy slice of Knafeh—the perfect sweet end to your journey.
Transfer to Airport
Head to Queen Alia International Airport for your evening flight home, taking with you memories of mountains and desert sands.
Best Time to Visit Middle East
For this scenic Northern/Mountain route, January is considered the peak winter season. In Lebanon, this is the best time for snow sports and mountain scenery, though coastal cities can be rainy. In Jordan, January is the 'low season' due to the cold, but it is actually the best time for hiking and sightseeing without the oppressive heat and heavy crowds of spring. Layers are essential as temperatures vary significantly between the snowy Lebanese mountains and the milder Dead Sea shore.
Visas & Border Crossings
Most Western travelers can obtain a visa on arrival in Lebanon (free for many nationalities) and a visa on arrival in Jordan. However, the Jordan Pass is the best strategy as it covers the visa fee and entry to over 40 sites. While there are land borders between Lebanon and Jordan, they involve crossing through Syria, which is currently not recommended for tourists. The most realistic and safe transit is a short, 1-hour flight between Beirut (BEY) and Amman (AMM).
Getting Around Middle East
International travel within the Central Middle East is best handled by regional airlines like Middle East Airlines or Royal Jordanian. Within Lebanon, hiring a private driver for day trips is affordable and the most family-friendly option. In Jordan, the JETT bus system is excellent for connecting major tourist hubs like Amman, Petra, and Wadi Rum, though renting a car is also a popular choice for families wanting more flexibility along the scenic King's Highway.
