This 12-day Middle Eastern vacation explores Cairo and the temples along the Nile River before connecting to Jordan to see the Dead Sea, Petra, and Wadi Rum. It features deluxe accommodations and private tours.
Your trip to Egypt begins in Cairo, the Egyptian capital and largest city in Africa and the Middle East. Cairo is not only the centre of one of the world’s oldest civilizations, but also the gateway to the wonders of Ancient Egypt. Spend a day exploring the pyramids around Giza, including mighty Cheops Pyramid, known as the Great Pyramid of Giza, which is the only remaining wonder of the ancient world. You’ll also see the enigmatic Sphinx before returning to the city to tour the Egyptian Museum, the world’s greatest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. The next day, explore medieval Cairo, weaving through the old streets and visiting mosques and marketplaces to get a sense of the city’s transformation over the past 1000-plus years. During your tour, you’ll pass through the old gates of Al Moez Street and visit Ibn Tulun Mosque, the oldest in all of Cairo.
Continue your Egyptian vacation by connecting south to Luxor, your base for exploring the ancient temples on the banks of the Nile River. Start with tours of Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple, two of the oldest and largest complexes in all of Egypt, renowned for their elaborate statues, obelisks, and wall carvings. Another day, explore the east and west banks of Luxor, known as the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, to see the tombs of ancient pharaohs Seti I and Tutankhamun, the Colossi of Memnon, and the Temple of Hatshepsut, the only woman to rule Ancient Egypt. Cap off the journey to Egypt with a day trip to the Temple of Denderah to the north of Luxor, one of the best-preserved temples in the nation. Connect back to Cairo for one final night.
Fly on to the Dead Sea to start your trip to Jordan. Spend a morning along the famous salty waters and go for a float before you head to Bethany to see the famous Christian pilgrimage site located where John the Baptist baptized Jesus of Nazareth. Continue to your hotel near Petra for the night and awake early the next morning to explore the famous Red Rose City, one of the most magnificent landmarks on the planet. You’ll wind your way through the Siq and see the famous Treasury as you explore the ancient city. Continue the journey to Wadi Rum, the country’s most famous desert valley and filming location for Lawrence of Arabia and Dune, where you’ll embark on a jeep desert tour. On your final full day in Jordan, you’ll see Mt. Nebo where Moses first gazed upon the Holy land, the churches of Madaba, and the capital Amman, where you’ll spend your final night.
At the end of your Jordan vacation, you’ll connect to the airport for onward travels.
