Visit Egypt and Jordan in this wonderful vacation through North East Africa and Jordan. L earn about ancient times in this well planned vacation featuring the pyramids, Cairo, and the Dead Sea. This package includes Food, Hotel, Transportation and a 3 day cruise. Discover the essence of Egypt and Jordan.
Cairo, Egypt -Your adventure starts in Cairo, the capital of Egypt. A constant thrum of energy wrapped around you, feel the ever-present heartbeat of the country in the city streets. Located strategically along the banks of the Nile, generations of wanderers have traversed these grounds just as you do now.
Day 1
CairoSpend the morning with an Egyptologist for a lecture on ancient Egypt. Your look into the past continues at the Egyptian Museum, a collection featuring some of the area’s oldest artifacts. This evening, connect with your fellow adventurers at a welcome dinner featuring local specialties.
Day 2
Cairo - Giza - CairoVenture to nearby Giza and embrace the Egypt you have always imagined at the iconic Pyramids. Stand in awe before the Pyramids of Giza, one of the seven ancient wonders of the world. Marvel at the Great Sphinx’s stoicism, a colossal structure jutting out of the desert sand, full of mystery and intrigue.
Day 3
Cairo - Aswan - Philae - Board ShipA 2-hour flight brings you to Aswan, a breathtaking port city up the Nile. You may choose to partake in an optional tour to Abu Simbel* and see the extraordinary temples of Ramses II relocated there during the construction of the High Dam. This afternoon, discover the mysteries of Philae’s temple. Located on a small island, this complex can only be reached by motorboat. Then, board your cruise ship, your home for the next three nights, and watch the Egyptian landscape slowly drift by you. After a captain’s welcome cocktail and dinner, connect with Egypt’s culture at an ancient Nubian show.
Day 4
Kom Ombo - Edfu - EsnaCoast along to Kom Ombo and visit a rare double temple. Continue on to the mesmerizing Temple of Edfu, dedicated to the ancient god Horus and serving as one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples. Sail to Esna before enjoying a festive Galabeya Party, where you might don a traditional Egyptian gown.
Day 5
West and East Bank of LuxorStart the day on Luxor’s West Bank, trekking along elaborate tombs in the Valley of the Kings. Delve even further into Egyptian legends with an exclusive viewing of the tombs of King Tutankhamun and Ramses VI. Continue on to a local farm nestled along the banks of the Nile. At the farm, discuss this Egyptian way of life between sips of freshly brewed tea. This afternoon, it’s your choice! Behold the Luxor Temple, a creation of kings Amenhotep III and Ramses II -OR- admire incomparable views of the Nile while you enjoy high tea at the Old Winter Palace which hosted esteemed guests such as Winston Churchill, Agatha Christie, and the great Egyptologist Howard Carter, who announced the discovery of King Tut's tomb here. This evening, enjoy the sound and light show at Karnak Temple.
Day 6
Luxor - Disembark Ship - Amman, JordanSay goodbye to the land of the pyramids as you fly from Luxor to Amman, the capital of Jordan. Get a peek into this innovative city housing both modern technologies and ancient relics. Tonight’s street food dinner includes local specialties of hummus, falafels and kunafa.
Day 7
Amman - Wadi Rum - PetraCross Jordan all the way to the south as you leave Amman for the isolated desert of Wadi Rum. Nicknamed the Valley of the Moon, this ethereal landscape resembles nothing found on earth. Cruise through the reserve on an open-air vehicle tour. Enjoy lunch at a local camp before venturing onward to Petra, the fabled “Rose Red City.” In the evening, stroll down the street to an authentic Arabic cooking class. Prepare your meal, featuring fresh ingredients from local markets and traditional Jordanian recipes, before digging in family-style.
Day 8
PetraWeave along sandstone carvings as you tour the archeologocial site of Petra with your guide. Serving as a crossroads between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea, Petra contains ages of hidden wonders just waiting to be explored. Enjoy leisure time to discover the site on your own.
Day 9
Petra - Dead SeaConnect with the local community at a women’s rug weaving cooperative, where you’ll be able to peruse the rugs designed in traditional styles. Then, arrive at your hotel in the Dead Sea and take advantage of the luxuries and direct access to the legendary sea.
Day 10
Dead Sea - Madaba - Dead SeaGet a glimpse into the foundation of Christian reverence at Bethany Beyond the Jordan, the venerated site of Jesus Christ’s baptism. In Madaba, delve deep into St. George’s Church and its famous Byzantine mosaics. Then, connect with an inspiring native who encourages literacy through his bookstore. At the store, you’ll enjoy a traditional farewell lunch cooked by locals as you chat with the philanthropic entrepreneur, discussing Arabic literature and culture. Like Moses long before you, gaze upon the Promised Land at Mount Nebo before returning to your hotel.
Day 11
Dead Sea - Tour EndsYour epic adventure comes to a close today. Return home with a new understanding of these mystical lands.