Jordan cultural tour, hosted by Bedouin of Petra
These tours are unique in that they bring you into contact with some of the world’s most fascinating cultures in iconic locations, where those people actually deliver the experience or are central to your trip. You will see a destination through the eyes of the local people and you will stay with them for part of the trip in traditional and comfortable accommodation to get to know them and to learn about their ways and beliefs. Itineraries are pre-planned and they may vary slightly according to various things, but they will always give you the best experience possible. The mix of genuine contact with a culture, exciting and traditional activities, iconic locations and traditional and contemporary accommodation will leave you refreshed, inspired and informed –with some beautiful memories and maybe some new contacts too!
How this holiday makes a difference
Environment
Our partner is committed to the preservation of the environment in which they live, as they always have. They take a low-impact, self-contained approach, carrying in what is needed and carrying out all waste, leaving the environment totally unspoiled for future generations. The company fosters responsible tourism and the Bedouin have a natural respect for the environment with preservation of resources, flora and fauna, etc.
Firewood is used for warmth and for cooking meals but it is done so on a sustainable basis. All food items originally in glass bottles will be rebottled in plastic that can be reused or recycled. Used cans, foil from the garbage fire and used batteries will be taken back by the guides and delivered to a local waste management project where these items will also be recycled.
Animal welfare
The Bedouin use animals such as mules and camels in their daily lives to help with their work and they also herd goats for milk. Their approach to welfare of the mules and camels is that they are almost part of the family and therefore they have the utmost respect for their animals and will ensure that they are properly cared for at all times. The Bedouin will for instance sleep outside overnight to tend to a camel mother and new-born young, acting as some kind of midwife. Their relationship with these animals is something that is inspiring to us all.
Lower carbon travel
The tours are such that traditional transport (walking, riding) is used as the preferred method where possible.
Community
In Petra, our partner is a company that is owned by the Bedouin who belong to the Albedoull tribe. Everyone from the owner Mohammed Ali Albedoull to the drivers and tour guides is a Bedouin from the local area. The tribe has lived in Petra itself for centuries up until 1984, when they were moved from their caves to the Bedouin village of Um Sayhoun, which was developed in agreement with the Jordanian Government. The Bedouin people still spend a lot of time outdoors, sleeping in tents and tending the animals.
A key part these experiences is to stay with the Bedouin in their camps near Petra, Little Petra and the camps in the deserts at Wadi Araba and Wadi Rum. These are genuine camps that are used by the Bedouin in their daily lives and yet they are full of traditional comfort and interest. By taking these experiences you will not only learn about their ways, but you may also help them with their herds and you will certainly be supporting their lifestyle, which will allow them to continue to maintain their traditions.
By working with our partner, we do not only provide an income for the local people through your visit, but also ensure you will get in touch with the authentic culture and tradition.This is brought to you by people who really are Bedouin, not by guides who operate from a book (though we do use Historical guides in Petra to give additional historical information alongside the Bedouin view). They will be able to answer any questions that may spring to your mind - about the dress, customs, history or any other aspect of Bedouin life. You will be offered original Bedouin food and if you like, you can learn about our traditional ways of dealing with everyday life.
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