Travel company adds tour to Petra for 200th anniversary

Small group adventure specialist Intrepid Travel has announced that it will run an extra departure of its eight-day 'Explore Jordan' tour to coincide with the celebrations which are planned for Petra's 200th anniversary.

An ancient city carved from rose-coloured stone, Petra was rediscovered in 1812 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

"With its rose-hued temples, tombs, amphitheatres and monasteries, Petra is often said to be one of the most stunning cities on earth," said James Thornton, Intrepid Travel's General Manager Global Sales. "We're delighted to be taking travellers there to coincide with its 200th anniversary, which is sure to be a huge celebration in a year when the Middle East continues to be under the world's spotlight."

Intepid's anniversary trip arrives in Petra on 20 August, after the end of Ramadan and in time to enjoy the city's celebrations. The itinerary also includes camping under the stars with Bedouin at Wadi Rum, trekking through the Dana Nature Reserve, floating on the Dead Sea, visiting the revered holy site of Mt Nebo, exploring the Roman ruins at Jerash and marvelling at ancient mosaics in Madaba.

Intrepid's special departure of its eight-day Explore Jordan tour begins in Ammam on 18 August 2012 and costs £710pp excluding flights.