Explore the Historical Treasures of the Middle East

Iceland, Thailand, Patagonia...some places loom large when it comes to adventure travel. But when is the last time that you set your sights on the Middle East?

The Middle East has a remarkably rich history and culture and an incredible landscape through which to explore it. There are deserts, of course, but also snow-clad mountains and pockets of lush oases. 

If you're anything like us, that's a combination that is hard to resist. To get the skinny on trekking in the Middle East, we connected with our friends at World Expeditions. World Expeditions has been leading trips across the globe since 1975, and bring travelers on big adventures that leave a small footprint. 

Here's where they recommend exploring on a trek in the Middle East.

Jordan

Archaeological wonders await in Jordan, which delights with palm-fringed wadis, sunbaked sand dunes, and cities carved in stone. The 10-day Jordan Trail Highlights includes a trek to the Monastery of Petra, two nights in Bedouin hospitality in Wadi Rum, and a dip in the Red Sea. 

Oman

Explore walled cities, dramatic canyons, striking sand dunes, wild coastlines, and plentiful markets and mosques on a trek in Oman. On World Expeditions' 6-day Essence of Oman tour, you'll camp out in the desert beneath the stars, watch turtles nest at Ras Al Had, take a jeep trip over the dunes of Wahiba Sands, and explore the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

Israel

The roots of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam meet in the country of Israel. Walk in the footsteps of Abraham on this 14-day trek in Israel and Jordan. Trek between the Old City of Jerusalem, the Red Rose City of Petra, the holy sites of Nazareth, Galilee, and Bethlehem, and visit the Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash.

The Transcaucasian Trail

If you're one of those who likes to be a bit ahead of the curve, then the Transcaucasian Trail is for you. World Expeditions says it's going to be "trekking's next big thing." The trail is on the borderlands between Europe and Asia. It is planned to extend over 3000 kilometers in Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia. Trek through Armenia or Georgia, or combine the trips together for an 18-day expedition.

Check out all of World Expedition's' Middle East treks.

Photos courtesy of World Expeditions