Ancient Encounters
16 Days Starting in 31.945367,35.928372 and ending in 30.044420,31.235712
Visiting: Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Karnak, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Amman, As-Salt, Dana Biosphere Reserve, Aqaba, Wadi Rum, Petra, Dead Sea, Madaba
Tour operator:
Tour code:
303
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
8-95
Special diets catered:
Request dietary needs
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Tour Overview
This 16-day tour offers an immersive journey through the historical and natural wonders of Egypt and Jordan, combining iconic landmarks with hidden gems and unique experiences.
Your adventure begins in Cairo, where you'll stand in awe of the majestic Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx. You'll delve into the depths of ancient Egypt at the renowned Egyptian Museum, surrounded by fascinating artifacts spanning millennia, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. Experience the vibrant energy of Cairo with a visit to the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, a labyrinth of stalls overflowing with spices, perfumes, and handcrafted treasures.
Next, embark on a luxurious 5-star Nile cruise, sailing from Luxor to Aswan. In Luxor, you'll be captivated by the grandeur of Karnak Temple, a sprawling complex of temples, chapels, and monuments. Explore the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs, including the legendary Tutankhamun, were laid to rest in elaborately decorated tombs. Visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a magnificent monument built into the cliffs, and admire the vibrant hieroglyphics at Medinat Habu.
As you cruise down the Nile, enjoy the ever-changing scenery of lush green fields, traditional villages, and ancient monuments. Visit the well-preserved Temple of Edfu, dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus, and the unique Kom Ombo temple, shared by two gods: Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the falcon god. In Aswan, you'll have the opportunity to sail on a traditional felucca, visit the enchanting Philae Temple, and even take an optional excursion to the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel temples.
From Aswan we return to Cairo before flying to Amman, Jordan's vibrant capital. Explore the historic city, including the Citadel, the Roman Theatre, and indulge in a delicious food tasting tour. Venture to the hilltop town of As-Salt, known for its beautiful architecture and harmonious blend of cultures.
Hike through the stunning landscapes of the Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan's largest nature reserve, and then travel to Aqaba, a Red Sea resort town where you can relax on the beach or enjoy optional water sports.
Experience the magic of Wadi Rum, a desert wilderness of towering sandstone mountains and vast sandy plains. Enjoy a jeep safari, spend a night in a Bedouin camp, and immerse yourself in the traditional nomadic lifestyle.
Prepare to be amazed by Petra, the ancient Nabataean city carved into sheer rock faces. Hike the "back route" to Petra, starting at Little Petra and enjoying breathtaking views as you descend into the main site. Marvel at the Treasury, the Monastery, and countless other intricate rock-cut facades.
Float in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea, renowned for its high salt content, and hike through the breathtaking Wadi Mujib gorge, with its waterfalls and stunning scenery.
Discover the historical and religious significance of Madaba, home to the famous Madaba Map, the oldest preserved map of the Holy Land. Visit Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have glimpsed the Promised Land, and explore the impressive Roman ruins of Jerash, one of the largest and best-preserved Greco-Roman cities outside of Europe.
This tour offers a diverse and unforgettable experience, combining ancient history, stunning landscapes, and cultural immersion. With comfortable accommodation, expert guides, and plenty of free time to explore at your own pace, this is the perfect way to discover the wonders of Egypt and Jordan.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Day 1: Arrive Into Cairo, Transfer To Hotel
Location: Cairo
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Upon arrival our staff will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for the start of your trip. They will help you settle in, introduce you to the local area, and explain tomorrow's arrangements.
Day 2 : Day 2: Visit The Pyramids In Giza And The Stepped Pyramid In Saqqara:
Location: Giza
Our Egyptian adventure begins with a journey back in time to the Giza Plateau, home to the iconic Great Pyramids. These magnificent structures, declared one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world by the Greeks, will leave you breathless with their sheer size and intricate construction. We'll explore the Pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, and encounter the enigmatic Sphinx, standing guard over these ancient wonders.
Day 3 : Day 3: Early Flight To Luxor. Morning Visit To The West Bank Of The Nile And Luxor Temple By Night
Location: Luxor
This morning, we'll catch an early flight to Luxor, the ancient city of Thebes and a treasure trove of historical wonders. Get ready to be impressed as we begin our exploration of the Nile's West Bank, a place steeped in ancient Egyptian mythology and history.
Day 4 : Day 4: Explore Karnak Temple And Continue Sailing To Edfu
Location: Karnak
This morning, you'll have the opportunity to witness the sunrise over the majestic West Bank of the Nile from a truly unique perspective – a hot air balloon! Imagine drifting silently above the ancient landscape, the Valley of the Kings spread out beneath you as the sun paints the sky with vibrant hues. It's an experience that will stay with you forever.
Day 5 : Day 5: Visit Edfu Temple And Cruise To Kom Ombo & Aswan
Location: Aswan
Accommodation Name: Cruise
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a leisurely breakfast on board, we'll disembark and head to the nearby Temple of Edfu. This remarkably well-preserved temple, dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus, is a stunning example of Ptolemaic architecture. As you wander through its impressive courtyards, you'll be transported back in time, imagining the processions of priests and pharaohs that once graced these halls. Admire the intricate reliefs depicting scenes of Horus's mythology, and learn about the temple's important role in ancient Egyptian religious practices. Back on board our comfortable cruise ship, we'll continue our journey up the Nile towards Kom Ombo, soaking in the ever-changing scenery. The pace of life along the riverbanks unfolds at a slower pace here, offering a captivating glimpse into traditional rural life in Egypt. Watch as farmers tend their fields using age-old methods, fishermen cast their nets into the flowing waters, and children play along the shore. It's a timeless scene that speaks to the enduring connection between the Egyptian people and the Nile River. As we cruise, why not take some time for yourself to relax and unwind? Head to the sundeck and enjoy a refreshing dip in the plunge pool, perhaps with a cool drink in hand. Or simply find a comfortable spot to lounge in the sun with a good book, letting the gentle rocking of the boat and the warm breeze lull you into a state of pure tranquility. Our next stop is Kom Ombo, where a truly unique temple awaits. Dramatically situated right on the banks of the Nile, this temple is unusual because it's actually dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris, the falcon god. We'll explore the temple's fascinating chambers and learn about the unique duality of its dedication. Don't miss the section where mummified crocodiles are on display - a testament to the ancient Egyptians' reverence for these powerful creatures. With the fascinating Kom Ombo behind us, our cruise continues southward towards Aswan, the historic gateway to Nubia. Enjoy the remaining daylight hours out on deck, watching the sun cast long shadows over the river and the desert landscape as we approach this vibrant city. Perhaps you'll spot traditional felucca sailboats gliding along the water, or catch sight of a Nubian village with its brightly painted houses.
Day 6 : Day 6: Abu Simbel Option. Sail The Nile On A Traditional Felucca. Visit Philae Temple & Aswan Dam
Location: Abu Simbel
This morning, you have the incredible opportunity to embark on an optional excursion to the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to the grandeur of ancient Egypt. We'll depart before dawn, making our way through the desert landscape. Our goal is to arrive in time to witness the magical moment when the rising sun illuminates the facade of the temples, casting a golden glow on the colossal statues of Ramses II. It's a truly unforgettable experience that captures the mystique and majesty of this ancient wonder.
Day 7 : Day 7: Morning Flight To Cairo. Visit The Egyptian Museum. Optional Afternoon Tours
Location: Cairo
This morning, we bid farewell to Aswan and embark on a short flight back to Cairo, where we'll delve deeper into the heart of Egypt's captivating history. Our journey begins at the renowned Egyptian Museum, a treasure trove of ancient artifacts that spans millennia.
Day 8 : Day 8: Fly To Amman: Free Time
Location: Amman
We transfer you to Cairo airport today to board your flight to Jordans busy capital of Amman (not included). Once you arrive in Amman, one of our staff will be there to meet you before taking you to your hotel. We'll have some time to settle in before being introduced to the local area and we'll also arrange tomorrow's collection time.
Day 9 : Day 9: As-Salt: Amman City And Local Food Tasting
Location: As-Salt
Our first visit today is to the hilltop town of As-Salt, around 40 minutes drive from Amman. As-Salt was an important trading link between the Jordan Valley and Eastern Desert, and once the capital of Amman. The town developed its old Islamic architecture using yellow limestone, which was the finest at the time and many impressive buildings can still be seen today, as well as tiny narrow streets packed with shops and stalls. Today the town provides an example of religious and cultural friendship between the local Muslim and Christian population and we take a walking tour on its self-designed 'Harmony Trail' to learn more about the town and local life in Jordan.
Day 10 : Day 10: Dana Biosphere Reserve Hike. Drive To Aqaba
Location: Dana Biosphere Reserve
Today, we'll make our way down the Desert Highway, to the Dana Biosphere Reserve where we'll stop for a relatively easy hike in the beautiful scenery and hills of the reserve. This is Jordan's largest nature reserve, and there are great views of the valleys and hills on the various trails around the restored Dana village. Spring is a particularly lovely time to visit with the terrain surprisingly green and full of flowers. We'll stop for an included picnic lunch and take a walk before continuing on to the Red Sea city of Aqaba where you'll have a free evening (and morning tomorrow).
Day 11 : Day 11: Free Morning In Aqaba And Overnight Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp
Location: Aqaba
This morning is free for you to relax beside the red sea, explore Aqaba or enjoy the many water sports which Aqaba has to offer. The crystal blue waters and colourful reefs around Aqaba offer some of the Red Seas best diving. Morning boat trips to go snorkelling on the nearby reefs are available too.
Day 12 : Day 12: A Jeep Safari And Bedouin Experience In Wadi Rum: Travel To Petra
Location: Wadi Rum
After breakfast in the camp, we take a jeep safari through the sands and beneath the towering 'jebels' of Wadi Rum, stopping to climb sand dunes and to see some of the strange rock formations, including a spectacular rock bridge.
Day 13 : Day 13: Reverse-Route Mountain Hike To Petra Via Little Petra
Location: Petra
Today is all about exploring the Nabatean site of Petra. It was once the ancient capital of the Nabataean commercial empire until the Romans finally took over in 106AD. For a long period of time, Petra was forgotten - except by the local Bedouins - before it was rediscovered in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. Petra can be found at the edge of the Wadi Aruba desert, where canyon walls and towering hills make it virtually impossible to reach, except via a narrow cleft in the rock, known as the Siq. There are very few free-standing buildings in Petra, as the Nabateans chose to carve their dwellings into the multi coloured sandstone cliffs. Petra has become one of Jordan's main tourist attractions and the Jordanian Government is well aware of this. The tourism infrastructure in the adjoining village of Wadi Musa is booming, though, thankfully, once you enter through the Siq, the site is protected, there aren't that many touts or souvenir sellers, and all the building feels miles away.
Day 14 : Day 14: Dead Sea Road To Wadi Mujib - Siq Trail Hike. Dead Sea 'Swim'
Location: Dead Sea
After enjoying breakfast in Petra, we'll head north along the Dead Sea road to Wadi Mujib, where we'll hike along the exciting Siq Trail. Along the way we'll be rewarded with great views of the Salt Flats at the southern end of the Dead Sea. As we continue along the shores of the Dead Sea we eventually reach the visitor centre of Wadi Mujib. You'll have time to have lunch here (not included) before entering the water and embarking on the hike.
Day 15 : Day 15: Madaba: Mount Nebo And Roman Jerash
Location: Madaba
After a restful night we head to nearby Madaba, where we'll marvel at the Byzantine mosaics and the 'Madaba Map' - which is the oldest preserved map of the Holy Land. From Madaba, we'll make our way to Mount Nebo, the place where the prophet Moses looked across the Promised Land and is also his burial place. On a clear day, which is most of the time, you get great views towards Jericho and beyond from here.
Day 16 : Day 16: Amman: Free Time: Departure Airport Transfer
Location: Amman
Your time is free in Amman today until we pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your departure. Further sightseeing tours are available today if you have a late afternoon or evening flight, including a trip to the Baptism Site at Bethany on the Jordan River. This tour also connects well with several of our Egypt and Israel tours; please contact us for ideas and help with connections.
What's Included
What's Not Included
- International flights (available on request)
- Cairo to Amman flight (available on request or bookable with your international flight ticket)
- Egypt Visa fees (available on arrival for US$25 for most nationalities)
- Jordan Visa
Mode of Transport
A/C car/minibus/coach
Sleeper train
Felucca sailboat
Bedouin jeeps
Accommodation
3 to 5-star hotels
Sleeper train
Felucca sailboat
Bedouin camp
Check out our Q&As
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities.
To promote tourism to the country, the Jordanian government has designed the Jordan Pass. This provides adults of most nationalities with a free single entry Jordan visa (for stays of 3 nights or more), a discounted package of entrance fees, and free digital brochures for the various sites in Jordan. Please check the Jordan Pass tour note for more information.
Double or multi entry visas for Jordan are no longer available and you will need to arrange two visas if you are doing a combination tour (eg. with Egypt and/or Israel) that visits Jordan more than once. Exceptions may occur if you are crossing to and from Israel via the King Hussein Bridge - please contact us for details.
If you wish to arrange your visa separately in advance, or if your stay will be shorter than four days/3 nights, then a visa fee of 40JD (approx. USD 57) will be due.
Families with children under 12 are recommended not to purchase the Jordan Pass for the children as entrance fees are not charged in Jordan for children under 12. Instead, the adults should purchase a Jordan Pass and we will arrange a free visa for the children which you will receive when we meet you on arrival into Amman airport.
Other nationalities may require a visa prior to arrival and to obtain this in advance, please contact your local Jordanian embassy or consulate or a visa agency for details. In addition, if you plan to enter Jordan via the southern Wadi Araba crossing (Eilat-Aqaba) or the Allenby Bridge/King Hussein border with Israel in the north, you will need to obtain your Jordan visa in advance as these are not available on arrival at the border.
Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities.
We recommend that you contact your closest Egyptian consulate or embassy for current information for your nationality.
In general official advice is that all nationalities obtain their Egypt visas in advance, as we cannot guarantee that you can get them in the airport. An online e-visa is available through visa2egypt. Please do not use any other website as there are many scam sites offering Egypt e-visas.
In practice however, many nationalities (including British and European, Australian, New Zealand, USA, Canadian) can and do obtain their visas on arrival in Cairo airport. The process is much quicker and simpler, the cost is currently US$25 p/p and must be paid in hard currency (i.e. GBP, USD or EUR) - you'll be given change in local currency if necessary. There are no forms to fill in and you don't need to bring passport photos. Visas are issued at one of the bank desks in the immigration hall, before you get to passport control. Our representative will have met you by this stage and will assist with the process.
All African & Indian nationals, and some others, will need to obtain their visas in advance.
For further information on your visa requirements, please either contact us or your local Egyptian embassy/consulate. -
Is travel insurance compulsory?
Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.
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When is my balance payment due?
60 days prior to departure
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s
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Can I transfer my booking to someone else?
Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.
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Free Date Changes
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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Terms and Conditions