2024 - Jordan and Egypt on a Budget Tour

Welcome to Jordan! Upon arrival, our friendly staff will greet you at the airport and transfer you away to your Amman hotel. After assisting you with check-in and highlighting nearby shops, cafes, and restaurants, you'll have the rest of the day to explore Amman at your own pace, discover local treasures, and get settled in before our exciting sightseeing begins tomorrow.

Our journey begins with a trip north to Jerash, the "Jewel of the North", boasting an unbroken chain of human occupation for over 6,500 years. Once hidden by sand, meticulous excavation has unearthed a magnificent Roman city, showcasing grand temples, colonnaded streets, and a 6,000-seat Roman theater. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this ancient metropolis, a testament to Roman engineering and artistry.

After a captivating morning, we return to Amman, the "White City" renowned for its limestone buildings. We delve into history at the Citadel, exploring the remnants of the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and the Byzantine Church. Our journey culminates at the Roman Theater, a magnificent amphitheater echoing the voices of the past.

Bidding farewell to Amman, we embark on a scenic journey to Petra along the historic King's Highway. Our route winds through deep wadis, past olive groves, and charming villages, offering a glimpse into rural Jordan. In Madaba, the renowned Greek Orthodox Church of St. George awaits, showcasing its 6th-century Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land. We then ascend Mount Nebo, where breathtaking panoramas of the Holy Land unfold, encompassing the fabled resting place of Prophet Moses. Continuing our journey, we navigate through awe-inspiring wadis, including the dramatic Wadi al-Mujib, where the road winds through lush greenery before ascending alongside a spectacular 1-kilometer-deep canyon. At Kerak Castle, a majestic Crusader fortress standing sentinel on the ancient Egypt-Syrian caravan route, we delve into history and marvel at its commanding views.

Upon arrival in Petra, we assist you with check-in, leaving your evening free to explore. Choose to discover the city independently or embrace the magic of "Petra by Candlelight," a captivating tour through the Siq to the Treasury bathed in the soft glow of candlelight. This day promises a tapestry of stunning landscapes, historical wonders, and the anticipation of Petra's magic, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Today is dedicated to discovering Petra, the Nabatean commercial capital, nestled at the edge of the Wadi Aruba desert. Accessible only through the narrow Siq, this UNESCO World Heritage Site captivates with its multi-colored sandstone cliffs, featuring dwellings carved into the rock. Our guided tour, spanning 2-3 hours, sets off through the Siq, unveiling remnants of ancient Nabatean water channels and terracotta pipes. The striking Khazneh (Treasury) emerges, showcasing the elaborate facades intricately carved into the cliffs and their spiritual significance.

Beyond the Treasury lies a valley adorned with rock-carved tombs, a ruined Roman amphitheater, and colonnaded streets. Free time allows independent exploration, including a steep ascent to the towering 'Monastery' for breathtaking vistas of Wadi Aruba and the Jordan Valley. Further climbs lead to the High Place of Sacrifice and Lion Fountain, completing an exhaustive yet fulfilling exploration of this renowned ancient site.

Hiking distances today are a minimum of 3 km through the Siq to the Treasury and back, 8 km to take the trail on as far as the main basin, plus an additional few km to the Monastery and back, over 800 steps up and down. For those with limited mobility, horse carriages and donkeys are available for a fee.

In the afternoon, our journey continues to the magnificent desert scenery of Wadi Rum, where welcoming Bedouin hosts await at a serene camp nestled amidst towering rocks. Here, under the starlit sky, we unwind and relish a delightful traditional Jordanian meal.

After breakfast, we embark on a thrilling Jeep safari through the spectacular desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Towering rust-colored jebels and mountains paint a breathtaking scene as we explore the natural wonders of this unique region.

Our journey continues north to the Dead Sea, one of the world's most remarkable destinations. Descending over 400 meters below sea level, we reach the lowest point on Earth, a landlocked haven of spiritual significance and dramatic beauty. Fed by several rivers, including the Jordan, the Dead Sea's waters are renowned for their high concentration of minerals, offering valuable benefits for industry, agriculture, and medicine. Flanked by mountains and rolling hills, the Dead Sea boasts an otherworldly beauty. Here, we experience the unique sensation of floating in the intensely salty waters. Unlike traditional swimming, the buoyancy provided by the high salt content allows you to effortlessly relax and float.

Bid farewell to Jordan as we transfer you to Amman airport for your flight to Cairo. Upon arrival, our friendly team will be waiting to greet you and assist with visa formalities and baggage claim. We then whisk you away to your Cairo hotel, where we assist with check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your own pace, relax, or join our optional dinner cruise on the Nile. This day marks the exciting start of your Egyptian adventure.

Our Egyptian adventure begins at the iconic Giza Pyramids, towering testaments to ancient ingenuity. Built 2,500 years BC by Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, these colossal structures remain a source of awe and wonder. Our expert Egyptologist will unravel the mysteries of their construction and significance within Pharaonic history. You'll have the opportunity to descend inside one of these pyramids and experience their grandeur firsthand. Next, we encounter the majestic Sphinx, a mythical creature carved from the desert sands. Uncovered in the 1920s, this guardian of the Giza plateau continues to captivate the imagination.

The afternoon offers free time to explore the renowned Egyptian Museum, a treasure trove of ancient artifacts. From glistening gold masks to sarcophagi and everyday objects, the museum paints a vivid picture of life in ancient Egypt.

As evening descends, we embark on a journey down the Nile River aboard the overnight VIP seater train. Choose between a comfortable seater carriage or upgrade to a private sleeper cabin for an extra touch of comfort. Savor a delicious meal and enjoy the changing scenery as we navigate towards Aswan, the next chapter in our Egyptian adventure.

Following our overnight train journey, we arrive in Aswan, the gateway to ancient Nubia. Today, we embark on a boat trip to Philae Temple, a magnificent structure dedicated to Isis and painstakingly relocated from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. Immerse yourself in its breathtaking architecture and learn about its fascinating history.

Next, we venture south to a traditional Nubian village. Here, we experience the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of the Nubian people. Explore colorful houses, engage with locals, and gain a deeper understanding of their unique traditions and way of life. As the sun sets, we settle into a comfortable guesthouse, ready to embrace the magic of Nubia.

As dawn breaks, two exciting options await. Choose to embark on an optional adventure to Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at the colossal temples of Ramses II carved into the cliffs. Witness the incredible feat of their relocation from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. For those who prefer to stay closer to Aswan, the vibrant markets and corniche offer a chance to wander through colorful stalls and soak in the Nile's serenity. Alternatively, delve into the rich history of the Nubian people at the excellent Nubian Museum.

Later we embark on a traditional Nile felucca, a charming sailboat offering a unique overnight experience. Under the starlit sky, we drift along the gentle currents, lulled by the lapping waves. Our separate facilities boat ensures comfort and hygiene, while you sleep soundly on the deck, nestled in cozy mattresses and mosquito nets. This is a chance to immerse yourself in the timeless magic of the Nile, with the option to upgrade to a hotel stay in Aswan for those seeking extra comfort.

This morning, we continue our serene Nile voyage. After a delightful lunch shared with the felucca crew, we bid them a fond farewell and journey northward to Luxor, visiting Edfu Temple along gthe way.

Regarded as Egypt's prized jewel, Luxor boasts the most significant concentration of ancient ruins in the Nile Valley, if not globally. Spanning both banks of the Nile, the West Bank houses the City of the Dead featuring mortuary temples and tombs carved into rocky mountains, while the East Bank showcases the remarkable Temples of Luxor and Karnak, linked by the Avenue of Sphinxes.

In the evening, an optional tour to Luxor Temple is available, adorned with captivating illumination amid the town's heart. Alternatively, venture into town to explore popular outdoor cafes, partake in backgammon games, and experience a shisha pipe session with locals. Rest for the night at a comfortable 4-star hotel nestled along the Nile's banks, offering a serene ambiance and a refreshing pool.

Today's itinerary is an enriching exploration of Luxor's West Bank. Commencing the day, we embark on a tour encompassing the Temple of Queen Hatchepsut, delve into the mesmerizing tombs of the Valley of the Kings, explore Deir El-Medina (the Valley of the Artisans) to unravel the tales of the diligent workers, and pause to witness the grand Colossi of Memnon.

After this insightful tour, the afternoon is yours to unwind at the hotel or opt for a captivating tour to explore the expansive temple complex at Karnak. For those seeking an extraordinary experience, an awe-inspiring hot air balloon flight over the West Bank of the Nile is also available, promising a breathtaking sunrise spectacle (note: an early start is necessary to catch this mesmerizing sight).

As evening falls, we reconvene to board the overnight VIP seater train bound for Cairo. An upgrade option to the sleeper train is available for those seeking enhanced comfort during the journey back to Cairo.

Upon our return to Cairo this morning, we transfer to our hotel, marking the beginning of a day open for personal exploration or optional tours.

Delve into the heart of Cairo with various optional excursions available. Choose from a comprehensive city tour encompassing Coptic Cairo, the Citadel, and Mohamed Ali Mosque, or opt for a half-day tour to Saqqara, Dashour, and Memphis, shedding light on the intriguing history and evolution of pyramid construction. For those seeking an extended journey, a full-day option leads to the desert outskirts of Cairo to behold the World Heritage Site of the Valley of the Whales at Wadi Rayan.

If the full-day tours aren't your preference, an afternoon option beckons an engaging guided walk through central Cairo's backstreets and bustling bazaars. Traverse the vast Bab al-Futuh gateway, exploring streets dedicated to diverse crafts like metalwork, spices, pottery, fabrics, and jewelry, eventually reaching the vibrant Khan-el-Khalili bazaar. Along the way, relish a pause for tea and a shisha pipe, perhaps indulging in an early dinner featuring Egypt's unofficial national dish, Kushari, before returning to our hotel.

Your time is free today for last-minute sightseeing or shopping before we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.
For an enriching experience, we suggest an afternoon or evening flight, allowing you the opportunity to embark on a tour to marvel at the incredible Egyptian Museum and explore further city sights in the morning. Should you wish to prolong your stay, additional nights in Cairo are also an option for an extended and leisurely exploration of the city