17 Days Egypt & Jordan: Pyramids, Petra, Nile Cruise

After a delightful breakfast, meet your expert Egyptologist guide for a deep dive into Egypt's most iconic ancient sites. Begin your exploration at the Giza Plateau, home to the Great Pyramids built for Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, truly the last of the Ancient World's wonders. Marvel at the colossal Great Sphinx, guardian of the necropolis, often depicting Pharaoh Khafre with the body of a lion. From Giza, we'll proceed to the ancient burial grounds of Saqqara, where you'll witness the revolutionary Step Pyramid of Djoser, designed by the brilliant Imhotep—a groundbreaking masterpiece in stone architecture. Conclude your day with a visit to the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a monumental gateway to 5,000 years of Egyptian heritage, featuring the complete treasures of Tutankhamun and countless other artifacts. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant with views of either the pyramids or the Nile. You'll return to your Cairo hotel for the night.

• Giza Pyramids Complex — Explore the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, and the iconic Sphinx.
• Saqqara Step Pyramid — Discover humanity's first monumental stone building, the Step Pyramid of Djoser.
• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — Immerse yourself in Egypt's vast history, including the Tutankhamun collection.

Following breakfast, you'll check out from your Cairo hotel and be transferred to the airport for a domestic flight to Aswan, 'The Jewel of the Nile.' Upon arrival, your Aswan guide will be waiting to escort you on an enriching tour. We'll start at the formidable Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering marvel that dramatically reshaped Egypt's landscape and secured its agricultural future. Next, visit the ancient quarries to see the colossal Unfinished Obelisk, still embedded in its bedrock, offering profound insights into the pharaohs' stone-cutting techniques. Our final stop for the day will be the breathtaking Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, majestically relocated to Agilkia Island to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. After your tour, check into your luxurious 5-star Nile cruise ship. Enjoy lunch and dinner onboard as you settle in for your river adventure. Overnight on the cruise.

• Aswan High Dam — Discover the 20th-century engineering feat that created Lake Nasser.
• Unfinished Obelisk — Witness the colossal, abandoned monument still in its ancient quarry.
• Philae Temple — Explore the beautiful temple of Isis, elegantly situated on Agilkia Island.

After breakfast served onboard, your guide will accompany you to the distinctive Temple of Kom Ombo. This Ptolemaic temple is uniquely dedicated to two gods: the crocodile-headed Sobek, god of fertility and creation, and the falcon-headed Haroeris (Horus the Elder). Here, you'll observe mirrored architectural elements reflecting its dual dedication and fascinating reliefs, including ancient surgical instruments. The adjacent Crocodile Museum displays mummified crocodiles, once revered by ancient Egyptians. Following your exploration, return to your cruise ship for a leisurely afternoon of sailing northward, enjoying the tranquil beauty of the Nile. Lunch and dinner will be served onboard, with a peaceful overnight stay.

• Kom Ombo Temple — Visit the unique double temple dedicated to Sobek and Haroeris with fascinating reliefs.

Enjoy breakfast onboard before setting off with your guide to explore the magnificent Temple of Edfu. Dedicated to the falcon god Horus, this is one of Egypt's most impeccably preserved ancient temples. Its towering pylons and intricately carved reliefs provide an invaluable insight into ancient Egyptian religious rituals, cosmic beliefs, and the legendary conflict between Horus and Seth. Walk through its grand courtyards and halls, feeling the weight of millennia of devotion. After your visit, return to your ship where lunch and dinner will be served. The cruise will then continue its scenic journey north toward Luxor, arriving in the late evening for your final overnight on the Nile.

• Edfu Temple — Explore Egypt's best-preserved temple, dedicated to the falcon god Horus.

After your final breakfast on the Nile cruise, you'll disembark and meet your private guide to begin a captivating day exploring Luxor's legendary West and East Banks. Our journey starts on the West Bank, at the Valley of the Kings, the ancient burial ground for New Kingdom pharaohs, featuring intricately decorated tombs. Next, marvel at the elegant terraced mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a groundbreaking female pharaoh. Finally, pause at the colossal statues of Memnon, guardians of Amenhotep III's once-grand funerary temple. Enjoy a lavish lunch at a distinguished local restaurant. In the afternoon, cross to the East Bank to immerse yourself in the sprawling Karnak Temple Complex, an astonishing open-air museum and Egypt's largest ancient religious site. After an profound day of discovery, you'll be transferred by road to the vibrant Red Sea resort town of Hurghada. Check into your 5-star resort and unwind for your overnight stay.

• Valley of the Kings — Descend into the elaborate tombs of New Kingdom pharaohs.
• Temple of Hatshepsut — Admire the unique terraced temple of Egypt's pioneering female pharaoh.
• Colossi of Memnon — See the massive statues that once guarded the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III.
• Karnak Temple Complex — Wander through the colossal halls and sacred lakes of Egypt's grandest temple precinct.

Today is dedicated to discovering the underwater marvels of the Red Sea. After breakfast, embark on a guided snorkeling excursion, where you'll plunge into crystal-clear waters renowned for their vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Swim amongst schools of colorful fish, explore thriving coral gardens, and soak in the serene beauty of this aquatic paradise. This guided trip ensures you experience the very best of Hurghada's underwater world safely and memorably. Lunch will be provided during your excursion. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon for dinner on your own and another comfortable overnight.

• Guided Snorkeling Trip — Explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life in the Red Sea.

Enjoy a full day at your leisure in Hurghada. This is your opportunity to relax and recharge, whether by lounging on the sandy beaches, swimming in the resort's pools, or simply soaking up the sun. For those seeking more activity, consider adding an optional scuba diving trip to explore further underwater treasures, a glass-bottom boat tour for a dry look at marine life, or simply wander through the lively Hurghada Marina, browsing its shops and enjoying a coffee at a waterfront cafe. Lunch and dinner will be at your own pace and expense. Overnight at your Hurghada hotel.

• Free time in Hurghada — Relax on the beach, by the pool, or explore the marina.

After a relaxing morning and breakfast, prepare for an exhilarating desert adventure. In the afternoon, you'll embark on a guided quad bike safari, venturing deep into the Red Sea mountain desert. Feel the thrill as you ride over dunes to reach a traditional Bedouin village. Here, you'll gain insight into Bedouin culture, enjoy refreshing sweet tea, and have the option for a short camel ride. As the sun begins to set, witness a breathtaking spectacle of colors painting the desert sky. Conclude your safari with a delicious barbecue dinner under a canopy of stars, truly an unforgettable experience. You'll return to your Hurghada hotel in the evening for your overnight stay.

• Quad Bike Desert Safari — Thrill ride over dunes to a Bedouin village.
• Bedouin Village & Culture — Learn about traditional desert life, enjoy tea, and an optional camel ride.
• Desert Sunset & BBQ — Witness a spectacular sunset and enjoy a starlit barbecue dinner.

Today offers another delightful opportunity for leisure and relaxation in Hurghada. Spend your time unwinding on the beautiful Red Sea beaches, taking a refreshing dip in the sea or your hotel's swimming pool. If you're keen for more exploration, consider an optional scuba diving excursion to some deeper reefs, another snorkeling adventure, or a relaxing boat trip. The Hurghada Marina also provides a charming setting for a leisurely stroll, with its array of cafes, boutiques, and seaside promenade. Lunch and dinner are at your own discretion. Overnight at your Hurghada hotel.

• Free time in Hurghada — Enjoy another day relaxing by the sea, or engage in optional water activities.

After breakfast and checking out from your Hurghada resort, you will be transferred to Hurghada Airport for your domestic flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, your Cairo guide will meet you for a fascinating day delving into the city's rich Islamic and Coptic heritage. Our journey begins at the impressive Cairo Citadel, a medieval Islamic fortification offering panoramic views of the city. Within its walls, explore the grand Mohamed Ali Mosque, an Ottoman-style masterpiece with its soaring domes and minarets. Next, visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC), renowned for its spectacular Royal Mummies Hall, showcasing the mummified remains of pharaohs. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant history of Islamic Cairo with a walk along Al-Muizz Street, a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with stunning medieval architecture. Conclude your day by experiencing the bustling atmosphere of the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the Middle East's oldest and most famous markets, perfect for finding unique souvenirs. Return to your hotel for overnight.

• Cairo Citadel & Mohamed Ali Mosque — Explore the historic fortress and its stunning Ottoman mosque with city views.
• National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) — Discover Egypt's history from prehistory to modern times, including the Royal Mummies Hall.
• Al-Muizz Street — Stroll through a living museum of Islamic architecture in historic Cairo.
• Khan El Khalili Bazaar — Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cairo's legendary medieval market.

Following breakfast and hotel check-out, your morning will be dedicated to exploring the spiritual heart of Old Cairo. Here, you'll discover the Hanging Church (Church of the Virgin Mary), an architectural marvel built atop the Roman-era Babylon Fortress. Explore the charming alleys and learn about Cairo's rich Coptic Christian history. Afterward, you'll be transferred to Cairo International Airport for your flight to Amman, Jordan. Upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport, a friendly local representative will be on hand to assist you with immigration and transfer you directly to your hotel in Amman. Check in and enjoy a relaxing evening, preparing for the wonders of Jordan. Dinner will be at your leisure. Overnight in Amman.

• Old Cairo (Coptic Cairo) — Visit historic Coptic sites, including the Hanging Church and St. Sergius and Bacchus Church.
• Flight to Amman — Seamless transfer and flight to Jordan's capital.
• Amman Airport Arrival & Transfer — Meet & greet assistance upon arrival in Jordan, private transfer to hotel.

After breakfast at your Amman hotel, embark on a profound journey through some of Jordan's most sacred and captivating sites. Our first stop is Madaba, best known for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, particularly the 6th-century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land at St. George's Church. From there, we ascend to Mount Nebo, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and beyond, from where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land. Your spiritual journey culminates at the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Here, you'll have the incredible, unique experience of floating effortlessly in its hypersaline waters, rich with minerals. After this rejuvenating experience, you'll return to your hotel in Amman for an overnight stay. Lunch will be included during the day.

• Madaba — Discover ancient mosaics, including the Madaba Map of the Holy Land.
• Mount Nebo — Stand where Moses is believed to have seen the Promised Land, with panoramic views.
• Dead Sea — Experience an unforgettable float in the mineral-rich, lowest point on Earth.

Today is dedicated to exploring one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Petra. After an early breakfast, we'll drive south to this magnificent Nabatean city. Begin your journey walking through the dramatic Siq, a narrow gorge that dramatically opens up to reveal the stunning Treasury (Al-Khazneh), Petra's most iconic facade. Spend the day immersing yourself in this archaeological marvel, discovering royal tombs, the Street of Facades, the Roman Theater, and various other intricate structures carved directly into the rose-red sandstone cliffs. Your expert guide will bring the history and mysteries of Petra to life, offering insights into the Nabateans' ingenious engineering and artistic prowess. Lunch will be enjoyed within or near Petra. After a full day of exploration, you'll check into your hotel in the Petra region for a well-deserved rest. Overnight in Petra.

• Petra (Half day) — Explore the ancient Nabatean city, including the iconic Treasury, Siq, and Royal Tombs.

After breakfast, prepare for an exhilarating adventure into the 'Valley of the Moon' – Wadi Rum. Often called the Red Desert, this protected wilderness area is famous for its dramatic sandstone mountains, natural arches, towering cliffs, and spectacular Martian-like landscapes. Embark on an immersive 4x4 jeep safari, driven by local Bedouin guides, taking you deep into the heart of the desert. You'll visit ancient Nabatean inscriptions, natural rock bridges, sand dunes, and the famous Lawrence Spring, named after Lawrence of Arabia. Lunch will be a traditional Bedouin meal amidst this breathtaking scenery. Experience the profound tranquility and immense beauty of the desert before returning to your Amman hotel for your final night in Jordan.

• Wadi Rum 4x4 Jeep Safari — Explore the 'Valley of the Moon' on a thrilling jeep tour, visiting key desert landmarks and enjoying Bedouin hospitality.

After a hearty breakfast, your day is dedicated to North Jordan's Roman and Islamic heritage. Our first stop is Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. Wander through its impressive Oval Plaza, colonnaded streets (Cardo Maximus), the soaring Temple of Artemis, and the grand Roman Theater, imagining life during Roman times. Next, we journey to Ajloun to visit Ajloun Castle (Qal'at Ar-Rabad), a 12th-century Islamic castle built by Saladin's general. This strategic fortress offers magnificent views over the Jordan Valley and tells tales of medieval Islamic military architecture. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant. After a day rich in history and panoramic vistas, you'll return to your hotel in Amman for your final overnight stay in Jordan.

• Jerash (Gerasa) — Explore one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy, with its theaters, temples, and colonnaded streets.
• Ajloun Castle — Visit a 12th-century Islamic fortress offering strategic views and insight into medieval history.

Enjoy a final breakfast at your Amman hotel. At the appropriate time, a private, comfortable vehicle will transfer you to Queen Alia International Airport for your departure flight, bringing your unforgettable 17-day journey through Egypt and Jordan to a close. We wish you safe travels and look forward to welcoming you back to the Middle East for future adventures.

• Amman Airport Departure — Private transfer to Queen Alia International Airport for your onward journey.