Journey Through Timeless Jordan and Egypt

Upon arriving at Amman's airport, you will be warmly greeted and assisted through the border procedures before being transferred to your hotel. You'll then have some leisure time to explore Amman at your own pace. Whether you choose to wander through the bustling streets, savour local cuisine at a cosy caf, or simply relax after your journey, the city promises a captivating introduction to Jordan. Enjoy your free time before the adventures of the upcoming days. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we'll set off on a journey north from Amman into the mountains where we'll explore the impressive Ajlun Fortress, a formidable 12th-century castle. This area is home to a mix of Muslims and Orthodox Christians, and we'll visit the historic Church of Saint Sergiusan opportunity for quiet reflection and a chance to pray for peace if you wish. A delicious lunch is included here. After this, we head to Jerash to marvel at its remarkable Roman archaeological site. Later, we'll return to Amman for your evening accommodation.

On Day 3 of our journey, we set off to explore the Desert Castles, architectural gems constructed between the 7th and 8th centuries. Our first stop is Qasr Kharana, a fortress known for its robust structure and thick walls. We then proceed to Qusayr Amra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its extraordinary frescoes. After immersing ourselves in Jordan's rich history, we journey to Madaba, where lunch awaits us. Here, you can wander through the Madaba Archaeological Park, traversing an ancient Roman road, and visit the renowned Church of St George. This church houses a striking 6th-century mosaic, celebrated as the oldest surviving map of the Holy Land. Our exploration continues to Mount Nebo, a site of great significance where Moses is said to have glimpsed the Promised Land. We then return to Amman, where you have some free time to relax and reflect on the day's experiences.

On Day 4 of our journey, we venture from Amman to Bethany, located on the banks of the River Jordan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned as the place where John the Baptist baptised Jesus, providing a profound sense of history and spirituality. Afterwards, we explore the Dead Sea Museum, housed within an impressive Panorama Complex, where you'll gain deeper insights into the unique geological and historical aspects of this region. Lunch is provided as part of the day's experiences. Later, we arrive at our hotel by the Dead Sea. Here, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the worlds saltiest sea, located at the lowest altitude on Earth. Dinner and accommodation are included, ensuring a relaxing and rejuvenating evening.

Today, our journey takes us deeper into the heart of Jordan along the historic King's Road, famed for its biblical connections to the Moab Kingdom. Our first stop is the imposing Karak Castle atop a hill an excellent example of 12th-century military architecture and once a crucial fortress between Jerusalem and Aqaba. After exploring Karak (entrance included), we will head to the quaint village of Dana, a collection of charming stone houses perched dramatically on a cliff. Here, well pause for an included lunch before continuing our journey.Next, we'll travel along the King's Route to Shoubak, where you'll have the opportunity to capture memorable photographs of the grand Crusader Castle from the outside. Our adventure then proceeds to Wadi Musa, the gateway to Petra. We will visit Moses Spring, where tradition holds Moses struck a rock to provide water, and the Petra Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the history of the Nabateans through its extensive exhibits.After an engaging day, we will enjoy dinner (included) and settle in for the night. Those interested can explore local options such as a visit to a traditional Turkish bathhouse or a light and sound show in Petra.

Today promises to be one of the most exhilarating days of our journey. We start by exploring the awe-inspiring archaeological site of Petra. You'll navigate the narrow Siq, a dramatic canyon that opens up to reveal the iconic temples and tombs carved into the vivid sandstone cliffs, a marvel of ancient engineering dating back over 2,300 years. After a memorable morning, lunch is included before we set off to experience the breathtaking desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. At the Visitor Centre, we'll switch to 4x4 vehicles for an exciting tour of this stunning and rugged terrain. A 45-minute camel ride provides an authentic touch as we traverse the desert sands, with a visit to the Khazali Canyon, where ancient petroglyphs offer a glimpse into the origins of the Arabic language. Our day ends with dinner and an overnight stay in a desert camp, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene and magical atmosphere of the Arabian night.

After breakfast, we set off for Aqaba, Jordan's second city, beautifully situated on the Red Sea. We'll have the opportunity to explore the city centre before proceeding to the border with Israel. Once across, we arrive in Eilat, a modern, bustling city with splendid beaches. Here, you can unwind, enjoy lunch, and perhaps take a swim in the inviting waters. We then continue our journey towards the Egyptian border, making our way into the Sinai Peninsula. Along the route, we'll pause to capture photos of Pharaoh's Island, known for the imposing fortress built by Saladin. Our day ends as we reach Saint Catherine, where dinner and accommodation await.Please note: At border crossings between Jordan, Israel, and Egypt, entry and exit fees apply. The current fees are approximately $15 for Jordan's exit, $32 for Israel's exit, and $45 for Egypt's entry (a combination of a $25 visa and a $20 fee). Fees are subject to change without prior notice by the respective authorities. Also, be aware that drones and cameras with zoom capabilities exceeding 5.5 metres are prohibited, as are other professional camera equipment. Finally, if exceptional circumstances arise or the group size is small, we may cross from Jordan to Egypt via the Aqaba-Taba ferry, which takes slightly over two hours, with no guide assistance onboard.

Today, we begin our journey at the foot of Mt. Sinai where we explore the remarkable walled monastery of Saint Catherine, a place revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. The monastery, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its association with the Biblical tale of Moses and the Burning Bush. Following our visit, we traverse the captivating landscapes of the Sinai Desert, with lunch en route. Our journey takes us to the Well of Moses, a biblical site reminiscent of a small oasis, marking a brief but meaningful stop. We then pass through the tunnel beneath the Suez Canal, concluding our day's expedition with our arrival in Cairo by late afternoon. Accommodation is provided for the night.

Our day in Cairo is filled with awe-inspiring exploration. We begin with a visit to the iconic Pyramids of Cheops, Khafre, and Menkaure. While optional, you can venture inside these ancient marvels for an additional fee. We then gaze upon the magnificent Sphinx, hewn from solid rock. Our journey through history continues at the Egyptian Museum, renowned for its rich collection of antiquities and the famed treasures from Tutankhamen's tomb. Lunch is included during our excursion. We later visit the Citadel of Saladin, where the impressive Alabaster Mosque stands. In the afternoon, we wander through the historic Coptic neighbourhood, where you'll find the Hanging Church. This remarkable church was constructed above a Roman fortress, offering a unique glimpse into the city's layered history. As the sun sets, reflect on the day's experiences in the vibrant atmosphere of Cairo.

Today, we depart Cairo early to explore a side of Egypt you might not expect its great lakes nestled in the desert. Our first stop is the Pyramid of Meidum, a fascinating site considered the first pyramid attempt by ancient Egyptians over 2,600 years ago. You'll be intrigued by its stepped structure and have the chance to climb to the entrance, descending 75 metres to the burial chamber. We also view the large mastabas, which are tombs of some of the Pharaohs relatives. Afterward, we venture to the Al Faiyum Oasis, tracing the fringes of the vast Qarun Lake, which nourishes the entire oasis and earns it the title of "the garden of Egypt." The lake's shores attract many locals for leisure. Al Faiyum is famed for its ancient portraits, some of which you may have already seen at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. We pause for a delightful lunch in the charming Tunis Village, known for its exquisite ceramic crafts.As we continue into the desert's striking landscapes, we arrive at Wadi Rayyan, a saltwater lake home to rare bird species and gazelles, designated as a National Park. Here, youll enjoy a refreshing walk beside its small falls. Our journey takes us deeper into the desert to Wadi Al Hittan, also known as the Valley of the Whales. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts an exceptional array of fossils, providing a unique glimpse into the distant past. At the on-site museum, we'll explore fossilized whale skeletons and learn about climate change. Our travels draw us to Menia, a vibrant city of 300,000, nestled along the Nile's banks. We'll conclude our day with a pleasant walk by the river before enjoying an included dinner.

Departing from Minya, we kick off an intriguing day exploring the rich history nestled within the Nile Valley. Our first stop is Zawiyyet Sultan, a vast burial site located at the base of a modest pharaonic necropolis, where an array of vaulted adobe mausoleums give us a sense of being in another world. We then continue to Beni Hasan, a fascinating cliffside necropolis housing 39 tombs (four of which we will visit) dating from 2125 to 1795 BC, providing us with an insightful glimpse into the daily life of the era. Enjoy an included lunch as we travel along the Nile Valley.Our journey proceeds to the Tombs of Mir, featuring nine impressive tombs from the Old and Middle Kingdoms, situated in a notably tranquil location with minimal tourist presence. Adjacent to these tombs, we visit Deir el-Muharraq, a revered monastery and Coptic pilgrimage site believed to be where Mary and Jesus lived for six months in a cave after fleeing from Herod. Tradition holds that the church on this site, built around the year 60, is considered the oldest Christian church in the world.We conclude our day in Assiut, the principal city of the province, where we enjoy a delightful dinner that is included in the itinerary.

Departing Asyut, we journey to Sohag, a region rich in Coptic history. Here, we explore the extraordinary White Monastery, constructed in the fourth century. Despite being rebuilt several times, its formidable walls remain impressive. The monastery was originally built with stones from ancient pharaonic temples, some of which still display depictions of gods and hieroglyphics. Remarkably, this monastery once housed the largest library in Egypt. Our exploration continues at the Red Monastery, one of Egypt's most remarkable Christian buildings. The ancient chapel from the fourth century boasts restored frescoes, offering a glimpse into religious architecture of late antiquity. We then proceed to Abydos for a visit to the Temple of Seti. This site, which served as a key pilgrimage and funerary destination for over 4,500 years, is closely associated with the worship of Osiris, the god of the dead. Although many tombs remain unexcavated, Seti's Temple stands out as one of Egypt's most complete and beautiful.After enjoying lunch, we continue our journey to Luxor, arriving in the late afternoon.

On our thirteenth day in Luxor, we'll delve into one of the world's most extraordinary ancient cities. Early morning sees us embark by private boat to cross the tranquil Nile River, heading for the west bank. Our first stop is the "Valley of the Artisans" at Deir el-Medina, a seldom-visited area home to the tombs of the skilled builders and artisans who crafted the royal tombs of ancient Egypt. Here, we explore three tombs, where vibrant paintings depict scenes from daily life in those times.Following this, we'll marvel at the impressive Medinet Habu temple of Ramses II, celebrated for its magnificently preserved war scenes. We'll also visit the Colossi of Memnontwo majestic statues of Amenhotep IIbefore reaching the Valley of the Queens, where the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut stands. This remarkable site honours the first woman to become Pharaoh. Our journey continues to the famed Valley of the Kings, visiting the tombs of prominent pharaohs, including that of Ramses, making use of an electric cart to navigate the site swiftly.After a return to Luxor's east bank, savour some free time for lunch. In the afternoon, our exploration takes us to Karnak, home to Ancient Egypt's most significant religious complex, especially the awe-inspiring temple of Amun-Ra and the quiet temple of Khinsu. Our visit includes the Luxor Museum, which houses a remarkable display of artefacts and mummies unearthed from the region. As night falls, we'll enter the Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated at this time, before enjoying a leisurely stroll in the bustling souk nearby. Note: Visit timings may be adjusted to enhance your experience by avoiding the busiest periods.

In the morning, enjoy some free time to explore Luxor at your own pace. You might wish to take a leisurely stroll, indulge in shopping, or soak in more of the fascinating sights the city has to offer. Later, we'll set off for Dendera, home to one of the best-preserved temple complexes in Egypt. The site remained hidden beneath sand and mud until its mid-19th-century rediscovery, ensuring its remarkable preservation. Enclosed by sturdy brick walls up to ten metres high and covering 40,000 square metres, the complex is striking. You'll be amazed by its towering walls and massive gates. The temple is dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love and fertility, offering a fascinating insight into ancient beliefs. After our visit, lunch is included, providing a chance to relax and reflect on the day's experiences. We then continue to the Red Sea, travelling through dramatic desert mountain ranges that offer captivating scenery. We arrive in Hurghada in the late afternoon, a popular Egyptian resort known for its long stretch of hotels. Here, you'll enjoy hotel accommodation on an all-inclusive basis, allowing you to unwind and enjoy your surroundings.

A full day awaits in Hurghada, starting with a leisurely morning at your hotel, allowing you time to unwind or perhaps explore on your own the local aquarium or Hurghada Museum. After enjoying lunch at the hotel, we'll take you on an afternoon excursion to discover more of this vibrant region. Our journey begins with a visit to El Gouna, a luxuriously appointed resort town renowned for its picturesque canals and lagoons, which grant yacht access to its opulent residences. There's ample time to stroll and enjoy this exclusive setting.Following this, we'll return to central Hurghada. Here, you'll have the opportunity to visit the mosque and enjoy a pleasant walk towards the bustling marina, filled with an array of shops and restaurants. After some free time to explore or relax, we return to our hotel, where your stay includes all-inclusive amenities.

We continue our journey along the Red Sea to visit the historic Monastery of St. Anthony, the oldest in Christendom, founded in the fourth century. Here, monks first began to establish their communities in caves and secluded cliffs at the foot of the Red Sea Mountains. Renowned as one of the most sacred sites of the Coptic Church in Egypt, the monastery is enveloped by walls and hosts several structures and traditional adobe houses. The atmosphere takes you back in time as you explore the Church of St. Anthony, which houses stunning Coptic murals dating back to the thirteenth century. After this revered location, we enjoy lunch at a local service area. Our journey then takes us to El Galala, where youll witness the surprise of modern Egypts ambitious urban developments in the desert. We arrive at the luxury resort by the Red Sea, featuring a marina and water park. From here, youll enjoy a ride on Africa's highest cable car ascent to reach the new city of El Galala, a marvel of modern design with a sprawling university. Our day concludes with a scenic journey back to Cairo, arriving in the late evening.

With the dawn of a new day in Cairo, we enjoy a final breakfast together before heading to the airport. As our journey comes to an end, you'll have the opportunity to reflect on the rich experiences and vivid memories gathered throughout our travels. We then transfer you smoothly to the airport, bringing our services to a close. Safe travels, and we hope to see you soon on another adventure!