Egypt, Jordan & Turkey 15-Day Tour

After a delightful breakfast, your expert Egyptologist guide will accompany you to kick off your Egyptian exploration. Your first stop is the Giza Plateau, home to the magnificent Pyramids of Giza, ancient monuments that have defined Egypt for millennia. Marvel at the Great Pyramid of Khufu, a testament to ancient engineering, and stand in awe before the enigmatic Sphinx. You'll explore the Valley Temple, once used for pharaonic purification rituals. Next, immerse yourself in the wonders of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a state-of-the-art facility showcasing an unparalleled collection of artifacts, including monumental statues and the complete Tutankhamun collection. A delicious lunch will be served at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, journey to the heart of Cairo to visit the renowned Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, housing countless historical treasures. You'll conclude your day back at your Cairo hotel.

• Giza Pyramids Complex — Discover the UNESCO-listed archaeological landscape of Giza, home to the iconic pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, along with queens' pyramids and funerary temples. This sacred setting embodies ancient Egyptian power and beliefs.
• The Great Pyramid of Khufu — Stand before the dominant monument of Giza, originally towering at 146.6 meters. Built from an estimated 2.3 million limestone blocks, it was the world's tallest structure for millennia, precisely aligned to cardinal directions.
• The Great Sphinx — Behold the enduring emblem of strength and guardianship, carved directly from the bedrock. This extraordinary monument, with a lion's body and royal head, is most commonly associated with King Khafre.
• The Valley Temple — Explore this ceremonial site, integral to purity rituals and rites surrounding royal burials, including ceremonies preparing the king for the afterlife. Its massive architecture offers a powerful glimpse into Old Kingdom religious practices.
• The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — Experience this monumental modern museum complex, designed to present Egypt's heritage on an unprecedented scale. Home to extensive galleries and advanced conservation facilities, it showcases landmark pieces like colossal statuary and royal collections.
• The Egyptian Museum (Tahrir Square) — Visit this central Cairo landmark, opened in 1902. Its galleries contain an exceptional range of Pharaonic artifacts, from royal treasures and statuary to objects spanning millennia of ancient Egyptian history.

Today, your Egyptologist guide will lead you on a profound journey through Cairo's significant Christian landmarks. Begin at the Church of St. Virgin Mary in Maadi, revered as the Holy Family's initial stopping point in Egypt before their journey south. Following a delightful Egyptian lunch at a local eatery, delve into historic Coptic Cairo. Explore the 'Hanging Church,' an iconic structure suspended above the Roman Babylon Fortress walls, known for its spiritual ambiance and historic craftsmanship. Next, visit the Church of St. George, an ancient marvel built atop the Roman fortress, its interior adorned with impressive artworks depicting the saint's story. Conclude your day at the Church of St. Sergius, dating back to the 5th century, honoring two Roman soldiers and celebrated as a key site of the Holy Family's passage. Afterwards, you will be escorted back to your hotel.

• Church of St. Virgin Mary (Maadi Church) — Visit this profoundly spiritual site, believed to be the Holy Family's first residence in Egypt. Its distinctive setting and unique character make it a highly respected landmark for worship and heritage.
• The 'Hanging Church' (Saint Virgin Mary's Church) — Explore one of Egypt's earliest Coptic churches, famously built 'hanging' above the Roman Babylon Fortress. Its interior reflects centuries of Christian life with traditional sacred ambiance and historic craftsmanship.
• Church of St. George — Discover this ancient marvel, built in the 10th century atop the Roman Fortress of Babylon. Connected to a monastery, its interior features historic artworks depicting St. George's defense of the Christian faith.
• Church of St. Sergius & Bacchus — Step into this historic church, dating to the 5th century, commemorating two Roman soldiers who sacrificed their lives for their Christian belief. It is also renowned as a site connected to the Holy Family’s passage through Egypt.

After breakfast, your private Egyptologist accompanies you to El Matariya, once part of ancient Heliopolis, to explore sites deeply connected to the Holy Family's journey in Egypt. Witness the revered Sycamore Tree, traditionally believed to have provided shelter to the Holy Family. Local lore also points to a nearby spring where the Virgin Mary is said to have bathed the infant Jesus. Your journey continues to another church in the area, marking one of the Holy Family's presumed resting places, designed with distinct Italian architectural influences by Leomengelli. A fulfilling lunch will be served at a local restaurant before you return to your hotel.

• Holy Sycamore Tree (El Matariya) — Visit this revered tree, traditionally believed to have sheltered the Holy Family during their stay in the area. It has been a pilgrimage site for centuries, with local traditions also speaking of a nearby miraculous spring.
• Church of the Virgin Mary (Zeitoun) — Discover this church, marking one of the places where the Holy Family is believed to have stayed. Designed by Italian architect Leomengelli, its architecture features Italian artistic influences and interior carvings depicting the Virgin Mary and Jesus.

Following breakfast, your private guide and comfortable air-conditioned transport will take you to explore more of Cairo's cherished Christian landmarks. Journey to Mostorod, a site deeply revered as 'Al-Mahamma,' or 'the Bathing Place,' where tradition holds that the Virgin Mary bathed the Christ Child. Next, visit the historic Church of St. Barbara, originally a 5th-century establishment. While the original structure vanished, the current church reflects an impressive 12th-century reconstruction, celebrated for its basilica-style architecture. Conclude your tour at St. Mark's Orthodox Cathedral, the oldest Orthodox cathedral in Africa and the seat of the Pope of Alexandria, admired for its rich collection of icons and intricate mosaics. After a local lunch, you will be transferred back to your Cairo hotel.

• Virgin Mary Church (Mostorod) — Explore this deeply spiritual site, known as 'Al-Mahamma' or 'the Bathing Place.' It is traditionally believed that the Virgin Mary bathed the Christ Child here, lending lasting religious significance and a contemplative atmosphere.
• Church of St. Barbara — Visit this historic church, originally established in the 5th century and later rebuilt in the 12th century. It is admired for its basilica-style architecture and refined decorative elements, an enduring testament to the preservation of sacred sites.
• St. Mark's Orthodox Cathedral — Discover the oldest Orthodox cathedral in Africa and the official seat of the Pope of Alexandria. Renowned for its rich collection of icons and beautifully crafted mosaics, it was once the largest cathedral in both Africa and the Middle East.

After a final breakfast in Cairo, check out from your hotel. Your private guide will lead you to uncover more iconic landmarks within the city. Begin at the magnificent Citadel of Salah El Din, a medieval Islamic fortification offering panoramic views of Cairo. Within its walls, admire the ornate Mohammed Ali Alabaster Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Islamic Cairo as you stroll along El Moez Street, a living museum of medieval architecture. Conclude your Egyptian exploration with a visit to the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where you can browse local crafts and soak in the historic ambiance. Afterward, you will be transferred back to Cairo International Airport for your flight to Amman, Jordan. Upon arrival in Amman, our local representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

• The Citadel of Salah El Din — Explore this impressive medieval Islamic fortification, built by Salah El Din. It offers commanding views over Cairo and houses significant mosques and museums within its historic walls.
• Mosque of Mohammed Ali — Marvel at the visually striking mosque of Mohammed Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, located within the Citadel. Its Ottoman architectural style and grand dome dominate Cairo's skyline.
• El Moez Street — Stroll through this historic street in Islamic Cairo, recognized as an open-air museum. Lined with incredibly preserved medieval Islamic architecture, it offers a glimpse into centuries of Cairo's rich heritage.
• Khan El Khalili Bazaar — Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of one of Cairo's most famous and oldest souks. Here, you can find traditional crafts, spices, jewelry, and enjoy a vibrant cultural shopping experience.

Today, embark on a profound journey south to the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site of Petra. Carved into rose-red cliffs by the Nabataeans over two millennia ago, Petra is a city of unparalleled beauty and ingenuity. Your expert local guide will lead you through the narrow Siq, a dramatic canyon entrance, revealing the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh), a stunning façade that has captivated visitors for centuries. Explore the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and the ancient Roman-style theater, delving into the rich history and architectural prowess of this ancient civilization. Lunch will be served during your Petra exploration. In the late afternoon, you'll transfer to Wadi Rum, checking into a distinctive desert camp and preparing for an unforgettable night under the starry desert sky.

• The Ancient City of Petra — Immerse yourself in the 'Rose City,' a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders of the World. Carved directly into vibrant sandstone cliffs, Petra is an extraordinary ancient city established by the Nabataeans.
• Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) — Marvel at Petra's most famous monument, an intricately carved façade believed to be a tomb or temple. Its stunning Hellenistic architecture greets visitors dramatically at the end of the narrow Siq canyon.
• Royal Tombs — Discover a series of monumental tombs carved into the cliff face, showcasing elaborate architectural features. These include the Urn Tomb, the Silk Tomb, and the Corinthian Tomb, reflecting the wealth and power of Nabataean kings.
• Petra Theater — Explore the ancient Roman-style theater, carved into the side of a mountain, capable of seating thousands. This impressive structure was a hub for public gatherings and performances in the bustling Nabataean city.

Awaken to the serene beauty of Wadi Rum. After breakfast, embark on an exhilarating 4x4 jeep safari through the breathtaking 'Valley of the Moon.' Your Bedouin guide will navigate you through towering sandstone mountains, vast open desert, and ancient carvings. Explore sites like the Nabataean Temple, Lawrence Spring, and the captivating Khazali Canyon, with its ancient inscriptions. Experience the tranquility and dramatic beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage landscape. After soaking in the desert's magic, you'll travel north to the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea. Check into your resort and enjoy the unique experience of floating effortlessly in its therapeutic, mineral-rich waters. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere.

• Wadi Rum (Valley of the Moon) — Embark on a captivating jeep safari through this UNESCO World Heritage desertscape. Known for its dramatic sandstone mountains, natural arches, and ancient petroglyphs, Wadi Rum offers a truly 'Martian' experience.
• Nabataean Temple (Wadi Rum) — Discover the remnants of an ancient temple offering insight into the religious practices of the Nabataeans in the heart of Wadi Rum.
• Lawrence Spring — Visit a natural spring nestled in the rocks, famously associated with Lawrence of Arabia, offering verdant contrasts to the desert landscape.
• Khazali Canyon — Explore this narrow canyon featuring ancient Nabataean and Thamudic inscriptions and petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into the history of human presence in the desert.
• The Dead Sea — Experience a unique float in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Its mineral-rich mud and waters are renowned for therapeutic properties.

After a morning enjoying the Dead Sea, we journey north towards the ancient Roman city of Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. Your expert guide will lead you through its impressive Hadrian's Arch, the Oval Plaza, the Temple of Artemis, and the Hippodrome, imagining life in this bustling Roman metropolis. Enjoy a local lunch in Jerash. Later, continue to Amman and transfer to Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) for your evening flight to Istanbul, Turkey. Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST), a local representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in the city for check-in and overnight.

• Jerash (Gerasa) — Step into one of the world's best-preserved Roman provincial cities. Known as 'Gerasa' in antiquity, Jerash boasts an impressive collection of colonnaded streets, temples, theaters, and plazas.
• Hippodrome of Jerash — Imagine chariot races and gladiatorial contests in this well-preserved Roman arena, an impressive structure that once seated thousands.
• Temple of Artemis (Jerash) — Admire the ruins of this majestic temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis, featuring tall columns and intricate carvings, a testament to Roman architectural skill.
• Ajloun Castle — Discover a 12th-century Muslim castle built by Saladin's general. This superb example of Islamic military architecture sits atop a hill, offering stunning views and strategic insights.

Begin your exploration of Istanbul, a city where East meets West. Your expert local guide will unveil the city's imperial past, starting with the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that served as a church, mosque, and now a museum (or reinstated mosque, depending on current status). Continue to the magnificent Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and stunning blue Iznik tiles. Explore the Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine public life. Afterwards, delve into the grandeur of Topkapi Palace, the lavish residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries, featuring exquisite courtyards, treasuries, and harems. Conclude your day wandering through the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar, a historic covered market offering countless treasures. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Istanbul.

• Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque — Witness a UNESCO World Heritage site, a former patriarchal basilica, then a mosque, then a museum, and now again a mosque. Its colossal dome and intricate mosaics are a marvel of Byzantine architecture.
• The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) — Admire this iconic mosque, famous for its six minarets and stunning interior decorated with tens of thousands of blue Iznik tiles, creating a serene and majestic atmosphere.
• Topkapi Palace Museum — Explore the former opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. This sprawling complex houses royal gardens, courtyards, treasuries, and sacred relics, offering deep insights into Ottoman history.
• The Grand Bazaar — Immerse yourself in one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. With thousands of shops, it's a sensory delight, offering everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and ceramics.

Enjoy breakfast at your Istanbul hotel before transferring to Istanbul Airport (IST) for your domestic flight to Adiyaman (ADB), the gateway to Mount Nemrut. Upon arrival in Adiyaman, you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, prepare for an afternoon excursion to explore the ancient sites around Mount Nemrut. Visit Arsameia, an ancient Commagene royal seat, and the significant Karakuş Tumulus, a burial mound for Commagene royal women. You'll also see the historic Cendere Bridge, a Roman marvel. As the day draws to a close, ascend Mount Nemrut itself to witness the extraordinary sunset over the gigantesque stone heads of ancient deities. This atmospheric experience is truly unforgettable. Afterwards, return to your hotel in Adiyaman for dinner and overnight.

• Arsameia — Discover the ancient royal seat of the Kingdom of Commagene, featuring impressive reliefs, rock-cut tunnels, and inscriptions that tell tales of ancient rulers.
• Karakuş Tumulus — Visit this monumental burial mound, erected for the Commagenian royal women. It is marked by three impressive columns, one topped with an eagle ('Karakuş' meaning 'black bird').
• Cendere Bridge (Severan Bridge) — Cross a beautifully preserved Roman bridge, still in use today. Built in the 2nd century AD, this elegant arch bridge is a testament to Roman engineering.
• Mount Nemrut — Ascend this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colossal stone heads and body fragments of ancient deities and kings, scattered around a royal tomb. Witnessing sunset or sunrise here is an unparalleled experience.

After breakfast, depart from Adiyaman and journey to Şanlıurfa, a city rich in history and biblical significance. Begin by exploring Şanlıurfa itself, visiting Abraham's Pool (Balıklıgöl), a sacred site associated with the Prophet Abraham. Next, immerse yourself in the rich regional history at the Şanlıurfa Archaeological Museum, home to artifacts from Göbeklitepe and other local sites. The highlight of the day is a visit to Göbeklitepe, a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized as the world's oldest known temple, dating back 12,000 years, predating Stonehenge and the pyramids. Marvel at its mysterious carved monoliths and gain insight into Neolithic spiritual practices. After this profound visit, you will check into your hotel in Şanlıurfa for dinner and overnight.

• Şanlıurfa — Explore this ancient city in southeastern Turkey, known for its deep historical and religious significance, often referred to as 'The City of Prophets.' It is a cultural melting pot with rich traditions.
• Şanlıurfa Archaeological Museum — Delve into the regional history at this impressive museum, housing a vast collection of artifacts, including significant discoveries from Göbeklitepe and other Neolithic sites in the area.
• Göbeklitepe — Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, considered the world's oldest known temple, dating back approximately 12,000 years. Its monumental carved stone pillars offer profound insights into early human civilization and religion.
• Balıklıgöl (Pool of Abraham) — Experience this sacred pool in Şanlıurfa, traditionally believed to be the place where Prophet Abraham was thrown into a fire by Nimrod. Now filled with sacred carp, it's a tranquil and revered pilgrimage site.

After breakfast at your Şanlıurfa hotel, you will be transferred to Şanlıurfa Gap Airport (GNY) for your domestic flight back to Istanbul. Upon arrival in Istanbul, our local representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. This afternoon, immerse yourself in Istanbul's vibrant maritime culture with a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise. Glide between continents, marveling at Ottoman palaces, ancient fortresses, and modern villas lining the shores. Afterward, explore the fragrant Spice Market, a dazzling array of colors and aromas, offering a chance to discover unique local products. The remainder of the evening is free for you to explore or relax at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a farewell dinner. Overnight in Istanbul.

• Bosphorus Cruise — Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, the waterway dividing Europe and Asia. Witness iconic landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, and ancient fortresses from a unique perspective.
• Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar) — Discover a vibrant covered market famous for its exotic spices, dried fruits, Turkish delights, and various aromatic products. It's a feast for the senses and a great place for souvenirs.

Today offers flexibility: enjoy a free day to explore Istanbul at your own pace, revisiting favorite spots, or perhaps indulging in some last-minute souvenir shopping. Alternatively, opt for an exciting excursion to Istanbul's Asian side. Cross the Bosphorus Bridge to Üsküdar, visiting the elegant Mihrimah Sultan Mosque and exploring charming local neighborhoods. Ascend Çamlıca Hill for panoramic views of the entire city and the Bosphorus, offering incredible photo opportunities. Enjoy a leisurely lunch on the Asian side, perhaps in the trendy Kadıköy district. Reflect on your incredible journey across three fascinating countries. The evening is free, with overnight in Istanbul.

• Asian Side of Istanbul (Optional) — Explore Istanbul's less-traveled Asian continent, visiting charming districts like Üsküdar and Kadıköy. Discover local life, historic mosques, and enjoy spectacular panoramic city views from Çamlıca Hill.
• Çamlıca Hill — Ascend to one of Istanbul's highest points on the Asian side for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Bosphorus, and myriad landmarks. It's an ideal spot for photography.

After a final breakfast at your hotel in Istanbul, depending on your flight schedule, you may have some remaining free time for last-minute shopping or a leisurely coffee. Our representative will then transfer you to Istanbul Airport (IST) for your departure flight, concluding your unforgettable 15-day 'Egypt, Jordan & Turkey Immersion' tour. We hope you've enjoyed your journey through these incredible lands with Travel Joy Egypt.