Journey Through Timeless Wonders of Jordan and Egypt

Upon your arrival at the airport in Amman, the warm embrace of Jordan awaits you. Here, you will navigate through border procedures before we whisk you away to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure perhaps to explore the vibrant city or simply unwind from your journey. 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.

On the second day of our journey, we enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off to the north of Jordan, into the mountainous region where history beckons. Our first stop is the formidable Ajloun Fortress, a 12th-century stronghold that tells tales of the past. This area has long been home to both Muslims and Orthodox Christians, and we visit the ancient Church of Saint Sergius, a serene place to reflect and perhaps offer a prayer for peace. A delightful lunch is included in our days adventures. Following this, we explore Jerash, home to an awe-inspiring Roman archaeological site. Its preserved ruins offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient civilisations. After a day immersed in history and culture, we return to Amman where accommodation awaits.

On our third day, we journey from Amman to explore the remarkable Desert Castles, constructed during the 7th and 8th centuries. Our first stop is Qasr Kharana, notable for its strong, thick walls. We then visit Qusayr Amra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its exquisite frescoes. Moving forward, we head towards Madaba with lunch included. Here, we explore the Madaba Archaeological Park, walking along an ancient Roman road. Our visit includes the Church of St. George, where we admire the astonishing 6th-century mosaic, which holds the distinction of being the oldest known map of the Holy Land. Continuing our adventure, we visit Mount Nebo, the site where Moses is said to have gazed upon the Promised Land. We then return to Amman, with time to unwind and explore at your own leisure.

On day four, we depart from Amman and make our way to Bethany, situated along the River Jordan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds profound religious significance as the location where John the Baptist baptised Jesus. Our journey continues to the Dead Sea Museum, part of the impressive Panorama Complex, which offers fascinating insights into this unique natural wonder. Lunch is provided before we arrive at our hotel by the Dead Sea. Here, you have the opportunity to swim in the remarkable waters of the saltiest sea on earth, which also boasts the lowest elevation on the planet. Dinner and accommodation at the hotel are included, allowing for a relaxing evening in this extraordinary location.

Today promises to be an exciting journey through the heart of Jordan. We will ascend the historic Kings Road, rich in biblical history connected to the ancient Moab Kingdom. En route, we'll come across the striking Castle of Karak, a prime example of 12th-century military architecture. Once a pivotal fortress between Jerusalem and Aqaba, its importance is evident in its formidable presence. We'll pause for a while to admire Dana, a quaint town with charming stone houses perched upon a towering cliff. Here, we include lunch, offering a chance to take in the views.Our journey will then take us along the iconic Kings Route to Shoubak. Here, we have the opportunity to capture photos (only from the outside) of the magnificent Crusader Castle, a testament to the region's storied past. We then proceed to Wadi Musa, the gateway to Petra. Here, we will visit the Moses Spring, associated with the biblical story of Moses drawing water from a rock, and explore the Petra Museum. The museum offers insightful exhibitions about the history and artefacts of the Nabateans, the creators of Petra.Dinner and accommodation are included this evening. Additionally, for those interested, there is the optional chance to experience a traditional Turkish bath or witness a captivating light and sound show at Petra. This marks the perfect end to our day, filled with historical exploration and cultural immersion.

Today promises to be the highlight of our journey as we explore the magnificent archaeological site of Petra. We begin the day venturing through a narrow canyon, unveiling the remarkable temples and tombs carved directly into the cliffs of this ancient city, founded over 300 years before Christ. After our tour, lunch is included to refuel before we set off for the stunning deserts of Wadi Rum. Upon arrival at the Visitor Centre, we embark on an adventurous exploration in 4x4 vehicles, revealing the vast and awe-inspiring desert landscapes. To deepen our desert experience, we include a 45-minute camel ride, immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of this remarkable environment. Our visit continues with a stop at Khazali Canyon, where ancient engravings trace the early use of the Arabic language. The day concludes with dinner and a night beneath the stars at a desert camp.

After enjoying breakfast, we depart for Aqaba, Jordan's bustling second city situated along the Red Sea coast. Here, we take a stroll through the city centre, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Our journey then continues to the Israeli border, where we cross into Eilat. Nestled between desert mountains and sparkling blue waters, Eilat is a modern resort city renowned for its pristine beaches. You have the opportunity to relax, enjoy lunch, and leisurely explore the area, perhaps tempted by a refreshing swim in the Red Sea.Following this, we proceed towards the Egyptian border, entering the stunning Sinai Peninsula. Along the way, theres a chance to capture photos of the Pharaoh's Island, notable for Saladin's formidable fortress perched upon it. Our destination for the evening is Saint Catherine, where we arrive in time for dinner and an overnight stay. Please note, at border crossings, travellers need to pay applicable entry and exit fees, which may vary without prior notice. Also, certain photographic equipment is restricted. In the event of unique circumstances or a low number of participants, an alternative option might be to cross directly from Jordan to Egypt via the Aqaba-Taba ferry, which is approximately a two-hour journey without guide assistance during the crossing.

Today, we start our journey at the foot of Mount Sinai with a visit to the remarkable walled Monastery of Saint Catherine. Revered as the site where Moses witnessed the miraculous Burning Bush, this UNESCO World Heritage Site holds significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, while being under the aegis of the Orthodox Church. We then traverse the picturesque landscapes of the Sinai Desert, pausing en route for lunch. Our next stop is the Well of Moses, a serene oasis steeped in biblical tradition. As we continue our journey, we pass through the tunnel beneath the famous Suez Canal, reaching Cairo by late afternoon. Accommodation awaits upon our arrival.

On day 9, we immerse ourselves in the history and grandeur of Cairo. Our day begins with a visit to the iconic Pyramids of Cheops, Khafre, and Menkaure, along with the awe-inspiring Sphinx, sculpted from solid rock. While tickets for the interiors of the pyramids are not included, their sheer scale and mystery are sure to captivate. Next, we explore the rich artefacts housed in the Egyptian Museum, including treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of ancient Egypt. Lunch is provided as part of the day's itinerary.Our journey continues with a visit to Saladin's Citadel, where we'll admire the striking architecture and visit the elegant Alabaster Mosque. We round off the day with a stroll through the Coptic neighbourhood, where we stop at the Hanging Church, an ancient place of worship uniquely constructed above a Roman fortress. Each of these sites paints a picture of Cairo's historical and cultural diversity, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this remarkable city.

Youll start your day with an early transfer to the airport for a flight to Aswan, which is included in your package. Upon arrival, we journey by road to Abu Simbel, where you'll have the chance to enjoy a boat trip on Lake Nasser, offering stunning views of the remarkable monuments. We'll savour a delicious lunch at a traditional Nubian restaurant. Our next stop is the awe-inspiring temples of Abu Simbel, carved into the desert cliffs by Ramses II in the 13th century BC. These magnificent structures, with their towering 20-metre statues, are dedicated to the god Amun Ra and the goddess Hathor. In the mid-afternoon, we will return to Aswan, where you'll spend the night in our excellent hotel, ensuring a peaceful evening of rest.

Today in Aswan, we explore a blend of ancient engineering marvels and cultural experiences. Our day begins with a tour of the city's highlights, including the famed Red Granite Quarry, where we'll see the remarkable Unfinished Obelisk. Here, we can marvel at the clever techniques used by the ancient Egyptians to cut granite blocks.Next, we travel by boat to the stunning Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, set on a picturesque island accessible only by water. After our temple visit, we enjoy a delightful felucca ride along the Nile, a traditional sailing experience that offers breathtaking views of the river and its surroundings. Our journey will take us to a vibrant Nubian village, renowned for its vividly decorated houses and bustling local life. Here, we indulge in a delicious lunch and immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Nubian community.In the afternoon, we continue our adventure with a brief camel ride en route to the historical Saint Simeon Monastery. This ancient Roman structure, later turned caravanserai, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. We will also pass by the modern Coptic church and the Aga Khan Mausoleum, albeit only from the outside. Afterwards, the rest of the day is yours to unwind at our luxurious hotel, complete with a refreshing swimming pool and excellent amenities.

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic journey along the Nile Valley, embraced by lush palm groves and vibrant communities. Our first stop is the Kom Ombo Temple, perched by the river, devoted to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Horus. This symmetrical temple is remarkable for its reliefs and hieroglyphs that illustrate ancient Egyptian daily life as well as mythological and medical narratives. We also explore the fascinating Museum of the Crocodiles, featuring mummified specimens. Our journey continues to Edfu, where we visit the awe-inspiring Edfu Temple, a magnificent dedication to Horus, the sky god, dating back 2,300 years. Lunch is provided as we proceed to Esna, home to an extraordinary temple that retains its original roof, offering insight into ancient architectural techniques and its preserved colours. This temple remained hidden under the Nile's layers for centuries, maintaining its integrity. In Esna, we encounter a restored caravanserai and admire the floodgates on the Nile from a distance. As we make our way to Luxor, we arrive in the early evening and settle into our hotel for the night.

During our time in Luxor, we embark on a journey through one of the most remarkable ancient cities in the world. Setting off early in the morning, we take a private boat from our hotel to cross the serene Nile River, heading to the tranquil west bank. Our first stop is the "Valley of the Artisans," Deir el-Medina, where great builders and craftsmen of ancient Egypt once resided and now rest. We explore three of their tombs, adorned with paintings that provide glimpses into daily life of that era. Our next visit is the magnificent temple of Medinet Habu, dedicated to Ramses II, where the stunningly preserved battle scenes are a sight to behold. Pausing to admire the Colossi of Memnon, we continue to the Valley of the Queens, home to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the first woman to rule as pharaoh. We also visit the famed Valley of the Kings, where the grand tombs of Egypt's royals lie hidden. Our admission includes an electric cart ride to the site and entry to the tomb of Ramses, requiring an additional ticket. Returning to the east bank, you'll have free time for lunch at your leisure.In the afternoon, we explore KARNAK, the most significant religious complex of ancient times, including the grand temple of Amun-Ra. Our guide will take us to the tranquil temple of Khonsu, lesser-visited by tourists. We'll also tour the LUXOR MUSEUM, showcasing a fascinating collection of artefacts and mummies unearthed in the region. As darkness falls, we offer entry to the beautifully illuminated LUXOR TEMPLE, adding a magical feel to the visit. Afterward, there will be time to explore the bustling souk (market) near the temple. Please note, the sequence of visits may change based on weather conditions and in an effort to avoid crowds.

In the morning, you'll have some free time in Luxor to explore, shop, or simply take in the sights at your leisure. Later, we will embark on our journey to Dendera, home to one of Egypt's best-preserved temple complexes. Hidden beneath sand and mud until its discovery in the mid-19th century, this vast site spans 40,000 square metres and is encircled by a substantial brick wall towering eight to ten metres high. The temple, dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love and fertility, is renowned for its magnificent walls and grand entrances. After our visit, we'll enjoy an included lunch before heading to the Red Sea. The route will take us through dramatic desert mountain landscapes. We reach Hurghada by late afternoon, Egypt's most popular resort destination, where hotels stretch along a nearly 50-kilometre coastline. Your stay will be on an all-inclusive basis at our hotel.

Today is all about relaxation and exploration at Hurghada, a renowned Red Sea resort. Start your morning by unwinding in the hotel's facilities or choose to explore on your own, perhaps visiting the impressive Hurghada Aquarium or the museum for insightful local discoveries. Following an included lunch, we will venture out to further acquaint ourselves with the surroundings. First, we head to El Gouna, Egypt's most luxurious holiday destination. This exclusive locale boasts numerous canals and lagoons, designed so that most residences are accessible by yacht. Youll have free time to take in the opulence of the area. Our journey continues in the heart of Hurghada with a stop at its mosque, providing a tranquil space and cultural insight. Stroll over to the vibrant marina nearby, a lively hub full of shops and restaurants. After enjoying some leisure time here, we return to our hotel for the night. Your stay includes all-inclusive amenities.

We set off from Hurghada following the scenic Red Sea coastline to explore the historic Coptic Monastery of St. Anthony. This extraordinary site dates back to the 4th century and is celebrated as the oldest monastery in Christendom. Nestled at the foot of the Red Sea Mountain, St. Anthony's monastery is a revered sanctuary for the Coptic Church, offering a glimpse into the lives of early monks who once settled in hidden caves and cliffs. The monastery, encircled by walls, features an array of adobe houses and other buildings that seem frozen in time. Notably, the Church of St. Anthony, built over the saint's tomb, showcases magnificent 13th-century Coptic murals. Our journey continues with lunch at a service area, providing a moment to reflect on the serene spirituality of this sacred place.Leaving the ancient allure behind, we head towards El Galala, where the landscape transforms with modern marvels as Egypt develops new urban centres in the desert. We visit a luxurious resort by the Red Sea, complete with a marina and water park. Here, we embark on a cable car ridethe highest in Africathat offers stunning views as we ascend to El Galala, a newly constructed city since 2015, featuring impressive urban design and a prominent university.Our day concludes with a comfortable journey back to Cairo, arriving in the evening, where you'll have the opportunity to unwind and reflect on the extraordinary blend of the ancient and contemporary experiences witnessed today.

We depart Cairo and head towards the Wadi El Natrun region, renowned for its historical Coptic monasteries. During the fourth century, many Christians fleeing Roman persecution settled here, establishing fortified monasteries that remain significant pilgrimage sites today. From among the monks of these monasteries, the Coptic popes are traditionally chosen. Our first visit is to the Monastery of Saint Macarius, founded in 360 AD, where a resident monk will guide us through its fascinating complex. We continue to the Monastery of Anba Bishoy, established in 340 AD, reaching its fortified tower via a drawbridge. Monks guide us through the church, refectory, and fortress, where several Coptic popes are interred. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the area and take time to visit the expansive new cathedral.After exploring Wadi El Natrun, we travel to the bustling port city of Alexandria, home to over five million people. Following an included lunch, our afternoon is spent visiting the impressive Qaitbey Fortress. This 15th-century structure sits on a narrow peninsula where the fabled Hellenistic lighthouse, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood. We will also take a bus tour along the corniche, showcasing various aspects of Alexandria from the chaotic and commercial to the serene and elegant. Enjoy some free time before settling into our accommodation for the evening.

We continue our exploration of Alexandria today, beginning with the captivating Kom Ash Shuqqafa Catacombs, Egypt's largest Roman cemetery. These remarkable catacombs blend Pharaonic and Greco-Roman styles. From there, we traverse bustling, commercial alleys with our guide, leading us to Pompey's Pillaran impressive 30-metre column rising amidst the ruins of an ancient temple. Next, we pause to admire the exterior of the New Library of Alexandria, inaugurated in 2002. Its modern architecture is a tribute to the citys historical significance as a hub of ancient knowledge, once home to over half a million scrolls.After lunch, our journey takes us to Rosetta, a quaint city near one of the Niles tributaries. Here, the Rosetta Stone was discoveredan artefact instrumental in deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphics. We'll view a replica of the stone at the Rashid fortress in a charming village, adorned with vibrant fishing boats and lively streets. We then proceed to the heart of Rosetta, where we'll wander through streets showcasing old Ottoman architecture. Our day concludes with a scenic boat trip along the Nile, offering views of local fishing activities. We return to Cairo later in the day. Please note, the Rashid fortress may occasionally be closed to visitors, in which case we'll explore the village's delightful surroundings instead.

Following breakfast, we arrange your transfer to Cairo airport our services conclude at this point. Wishing you a pleasant journey and wonderful memories of your travels.