Egypt, Jordan & Turkey: 18-Day Grand Tour

Following breakfast, join your private Egyptologist guide for an unparalleled exploration of the Giza Plateau, home to the last original Wonder of the Ancient World. Delve into the secrets of the iconic Giza Pyramids Complex, colossal monuments built around 2600 BC as eternal resting places. Witness the awe-inspiring Great Pyramid of Giza, masterfully constructed as Pharaoh Khufu's tomb, which stood as the world's tallest structure for millennia. Marvel at the enigmatic Great Sphinx, with the face of King Khafre atop a lion's body, symbolizing divine power. Explore the mythical Valley Temple, where ancient royal mummification rituals were performed. Next, immerse yourself in the groundbreaking Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a state-of-the-art facility showcasing 5,000 years of Egyptian heritage, featuring highlights like the Hanging Obelisk, colossal statues, and the vast collection of Tutankhamun's treasures. After a delightful lunch with pyramid views, journey to Saqqara, the birthplace of monumental stone architecture. Discover the revolutionary Step Pyramid, the world's first large-scale stone building, designed by the legendary Imhotep. In the late afternoon, transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight to Aswan, where a Travel Joy Egypt representative will meet you and escort you to your hotel for the evening.

• Giza Pyramids Complex — Explore the three magnificent pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid, a testament to ancient Egyptian engineering.
• Great Sphinx — Stand before the iconic Sphinx, a symbol of ancient Egypt's mystery and power.
• Valley Temple — Visit the ancient mortuary temple where pharaohs' mummification rituals took place.
• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — Experience the world's largest archaeological museum, housing an unparalleled collection of Egyptian artifacts.
• Saqqara Step Pyramid — Discover the world's first pyramid, an architectural innovation that changed history.

After breakfast and checking out, your exploration of Aswan's historic landmarks begins. Marvel at the monumental Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering marvel from the 1960s, instrumental in regulating the Nile and providing hydroelectric power. Next, visit the intriguing Unfinished Obelisk, an open-air museum where ancient quarrying techniques are revealed through a massive abandoned obelisk, offering a rare glimpse into ancient craftsmanship. Enjoy a delectable lunch at a distinguished Aswan restaurant. Afterward, journey to the graceful Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Relocated to Agilkia Island to save it from the rising waters, this Ptolemaic-era sanctuary with its elegant columns offers a profoundly atmospheric experience. In the afternoon, you'll travel overland to Luxor, once ancient Thebes, check into your hotel, and settle in for a relaxing evening.

• Aswan High Dam — Explore the modern engineering marvel that reshaped Egypt's landscape and economy.
• Unfinished Obelisk — Witness an enormous ancient obelisk still partially carved from its bedrock, offering insights into quarrying.
• Philae Temple — Visit the beautiful island temple dedicated to the goddess Isis, renowned for its stunning location.

Following breakfast, embark on a magnificent journey through Luxor's East Bank, delving into the awe-inspiring monuments of ancient Thebes. Begin with the colossal Karnak Temple Complex, an immense open-air museum continually expanded over nearly two millennia. This sacred precinct, dedicated primarily to the Theban Triad, features the iconic Hypostyle Hall, sacred lakes, towering obelisks, and the legendary Avenue of Sphinxes. After a delightful lunch at a prominent local restaurant, continue to the elegant Luxor Temple. Built largely by Amenhotep III and embellished by Ramses II, this unique temple was dedicated to renewed kingship and hosted major royal festivals. Experience its grandeur as the day progresses, reflecting on its profound historical significance. Conclude your day returning to your Luxor hotel for a comfortable overnight stay, immersed in ancient splendor.

• Karnak Temple Complex — Wander through the sprawling complex of temples, halls, and obelisks, one of the world's largest ancient religious sites.
• Luxor Temple — Discover the stunning Luxor Temple, particularly beautiful at sunset, which was dedicated to the rejuvenation of kings.

After breakfast, prepare for an immersive exploration of Luxor's West Bank, a landscape dotted with monuments pivotal to the peak of Egypt's New Kingdom. Your first stop is the immortal Queen Hatshepsut's Temple, a unique architectural masterpiece carved harmoniously into the limestone cliffs, celebrating one of Egypt's most powerful female pharaohs. Next, venture into the fabled Valley of the Kings, the sacred burial ground of New Kingdom pharaohs. Explore some of the richly decorated tombs, adorned with intricate funerary texts and cosmic imagery that unveil ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife. Enjoy a delicious lunch before continuing to the legendary Colossi of Memnon. These two monumental seated statues, once guardians of Amenhotep III's mortuary temple, stand as silent witnesses to millennia of history. At day's end, return to your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay, reflecting on the enduring artistry and power of ancient Thebes.

• Queen Hatshepsut's Temple — Visit the unique terraced temple of Egypt's most famous female pharaoh, carved into the cliffs.
• Valley of the Kings — Descend into the elaborately decorated tombs of pharaohs, revealing secrets of the afterlife.
• Colossi of Memnon — See the massive ancient statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, silent sentinels on the West Bank.

After breakfast, depart Luxor for a transfer to Hurghada, Egypt's premier Red Sea resort. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and prepare for a day of aquatic splendor. Embark on an unforgettable snorkeling excursion into the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. Discover a vibrant underwater world teeming with dazzling coral reefs, exotic fish, and diverse marine life. This immersive experience offers a direct connection to one of the world's richest marine ecosystems. Enjoy lunch on board during your trip. In the evening, savor dinner at your hotel, reflecting on the day's colorful discoveries.

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in beautiful Hurghada. Whether you choose to relax on the pristine beaches, swim in the warm Red Sea, explore the local markets, or indulge in optional water sports, this free day allows you to tailor your relaxation and adventure. Hurghada offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and exciting activities. Take your time to discover the city's charm at your own pace.

Today, venture beyond the coast into the dramatic Eastern Desert for an exhilarating adventure. Brace yourself for a thrilling quad bike safari across sweeping sand dunes and rugged desert terrain. Your ride will lead you to a traditional Bedouin village, where you'll have the unique opportunity to learn about their ancestral customs, hospitality, and way of life. As dusk paints the desert sky, gather for a flavorful barbecue dinner under a canopy of brilliant stars, surrounded by stunning rock formations. This magical evening offers a deep appreciation for the desert's serene beauty and rich culture.

After breakfast, you'll transfer to Hurghada Airport for a short domestic flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, our representative will meet you and facilitate your transfer to your hotel. After settling in, your adventure continues as you immerse yourself in the Ottoman legacy of Istanbul (details for Istanbul to be confirmed per competitor original data which was incomplete for Day 9 onwards).