Welcome to Jordan, a fascinating country where ancient traditions and modern charm blend seamlessly under desert skies. We begin in Amman, Jordan’s bustling and vibrant capital and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of the world. Famous for the seven hills it’s built on, Amman rises and falls like a mosaic of past and present, from the Roman Theatre and Amman Citadel to the buzzing energy of Rainbow Street and its boutiques, galleries and cosy cafes. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5.00pm. We’ll enjoy some free time to freshen up, before meeting our fellow travellers at a group welcome dinner this evening.

This morning, we’ll travel to Jerash, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world, where ancient Rome comes spectacularly to life. The ancient city was buried in sand before being gradually revealed through a series of excavations, starting in 1925 and continuing to this day. We’ll tour through the colonnaded street, amphitheatre, churches, temples and the vast Roman Forum. Keep your eyes peeled for the chariot tracks that remain etched in the stone roads. Surrounded by olive groves and the lovely rolling hills typical around Amman, Jerash offers a captivating, and vivid, peek into the ancient past. Later, we’ll take a short drive to the impressive Ajloun Castle or ‘Qalaat Rabadh’ (Arabic for ‘Hilltop Castle’). Perched high on the hill, this striking Islamic Castle was built in the 12th century, serving as a military fort to protect the region from invading Crusader forces and showcases historic Islamic military architecture, complete with winding staircases, arrow slits and hidden passageways.

Special Experience

Take part in a local baking workshop at the Biscuit House, complete with a cup of aromatic tea and scenic views of the nearby Ajloun Forest.

Nestled within the lush Ajloun Forest Reserve, the Biscuit House is a delightful blend of culinary tradition and natural beauty. We’ll have the opportunity to try our hand at baking some traditional Jordanian treats, all the while savouring a steaming cup of herbal tea and the panoramic views of the surrounding woodlands.

After baking up a storm, we’ll return to Amman where the remainder of the evening is at leisure.

We’ll begin our day with a visit to the amazing Amman Citadel, perched atop the Jabal Al Qal’a, one of the city’s highest hills and one of the seven jabals that originally made up the city. We’ll walk through this ancient ruin to gain insight into Jordan’s history while also enjoying incredible panoramic views. After our visit, we’ll bid Amman farewell as we make our way to the breathtaking Wadi Rum, a protected desert wilderness in southern Jordan. This otherworldly desert is also known as the Valley of the Moon and is a stunning canvas of towering sandstone mountains, narrow canyons and rust-red sands that glow like fire when the sun sets. Upon arrival in Wadi Rum, we’ll enjoy lunch before checking in to our hotel. This afternoon we’ll take an exciting, if somewhat bumpy, 4WD tour through one of the most stunning desertscapes in the world to understand and appreciate why this beautiful area has been the backdrop for many Hollywood films, as well as hopefully having the opportunity to catch a magnificent sunset over the dunes.

Optional Excursion

Camel Ride - Experience an iconic aspect of Bedouin life, taking a camel ride through Wadi Rum. 1 hour – from $25pp US. Cash only.

Checking out of our desert camp in Wadi Rum this morning, we make our way towards Petra. Along the way, we’ll stop to visit the fascinating 'Little Petra', also known as Siq al-Barid. Little Petra has a history dating back some 9,000 years and is one of the oldest archaeological sites in the Middle East. Famous for its ancient buildings sculpted out of solid red sandstone, Little Petra has been a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site since 1985. Next, we’ll travel the short distance to Petra, located in Jordan’s southwestern desert. Petra is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites and classified as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Carved from rose-coloured sandstone, Petra is often called the ‘Rose City,’ and has appeared in a number of films including Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Arabian Nights. After checking into our hotel, the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure for us to further explore our surrounds or to simply relax at the hotel. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant in Petra.

Optional Excursion

Petra by Night - Discover the magic of Petra after dark, as the rock city is lit by more than 1,000 candles. 2 hours – from $43pp US. Cash only.

This morning, put on your walking shoes and grab your favourite sunhat as we explore the famous lost city of Petra on a guided tour. Carved into the sheer rockface by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago, seeing Petra up close is a jaw-dropping ‘how did they do that?!?’ moment. Ancient capital of the Nabataeans, this complex flourished as an important junction for the silk and trade routes. Attracting visitors from all over the world, much of Petra’s appeal comes from its breathtaking setting deep inside a narrow desert gorge. Our guide will explain the history of this great city and our tour will include a visit to Petra’s most famous monument, whose grand entrance is through the Siq, a narrow gorge that opens up to reveal the iconic Treasury, its ornate façade glowing in the desert sun like a forgotten jewel. Beyond this architectural marvel, the lost city unfolds around us as we wander through the canyon. We’ll also visit Pharaoh's Castle, the Triumphal Arch, the Roman-style Amphitheatre situated near the top of a large hill and the stunning Monastery. The view from here is definitely worth the sweaty climb! After our guided tour, enjoy the rest of the day free to explore this delightful city independently.

Challenging Day

Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

We’ll begin the day travelling along the ancient King’s Highway, one of the world’s oldest trade routes still in use today. Mentioned in the Old Testament, this historic thoroughfare connected Syria to the Gulf of Aqaba and today is a scenic way to explore parts of Jordan. Along the King’s Highway we’ll find the incredible Shobak Castle, perched atop a hill that was formerly called Mons Realis or 'Royal Mountain'. This imposing castle was built by the crusader King Baldwin I in 1115, and throughout history was the subject of numerous attacks, reflected through the site's weathered architecture. Next, we’ll continue to the Dead Sea where we check in to our hotel and enjoy a group lunch. Nestled between Jordan and Israel, this salty marvel sits at the lowest point on earth – about 430 metres below sea level. As its name evokes, the Dead Sea is devoid of life due to the extremely high content of salts and minerals that give its waters its renowned curative powers, therapeutic qualities and buoyancy. Because the salt content is four times that of most oceans, you can float in the Dead Sea without even trying. The rest of the day is at leisure for us to enjoy our time at the Dead Sea any way we choose!

Today we make our way back to Amman, stopping in Madaba along the way. Known as ‘The City of Mosaics’, underneath almost every house in Madaba lies a fine Byzantine mosaic. We will visit the Greek Orthodox Church of St George, home to Madaba's main attraction, a wonderfully vivid, 6th century Byzantine mosaic map showing the entire region from Jordan and Palestine in the north, to Egypt in the south. We’ll also stop at Mount Nebo, perched high above the Jordan Valley. More than just a scenic lookout, it’s a spot steeped in history and legend, and the breathtaking views are a lucky bonus! According to legend, this is the spot where Moses stood, making it one of the most revered sites in the Holy Land. On a clear day, it’s possible to see across the Dead Sea to Jerusalem, Jericho and the hills of Judea. Returning to Amman, we’ll have the afternoon to spend as we wish before joining a cooking class.

Special Experience

Enjoy a cooking class where we learn about delicious local Middle Eastern cuisine and enjoy our culinary creations for dinner as we bid farewell to Jordan.

Tucked into a charming old home in one of Amman’s historic neighbourhoods, this cooking class offers guests more than just a meal – it’s a fun, hands-on celebration of Jordanian hospitality and culture, one fragrant, flavourful bite at a time. We’ll roll up our sleeves as we learn to make our own traditional dishes and get to devour our creations around a shared table.

Today we say ‘ma’a al-salama’ to Jordan and take a short flight to Cairo - welcome to Egypt! A country known for its historical sites and world wonders. We begin in Cairo, the sprawling capital of Egypt and the largest city in Africa. A city that never stands still, this buzzing metropolis situated along the banks of the Nile River is a thrilling blend of ancient wonders and lively modern culture. Often called the ‘City of a Thousand Minarets’, it’s famous for its stunning Islamic architecture, vibrant street life and deep historical roots. Rising from the desert just outside Cairo are the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, as well as the new Grand Egyptian Museum. This fascinating museum houses a world-famous collection of antiquities, including treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb, as well as thousands of other artifacts. Cairo itself is a mind-boggling cacophony of sights and sounds, where historic mosques and busy bazaars, like Khan el-Khalili nestle next to modern cafes and high-rise buildings. We’ll enjoy some free time to freshen up, before joining our fellow travellers for a group welcome dinner this evening.

Our touring in Egypt begins at the oldest structures in existence and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the amazing Great Pyramids of Giza. Nothing can prepare us for the feeling of standing at the base of the pyramids. Their sheer size is overwhelming and it’s a marvel to wonder at the ancient engineering ingeniousness. We’ll visit the nearby Great Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a king, often referred to as the national symbol of Egypt.

Special Experience

Take in the incredible views of the Great Pyramids of Giza while enjoying a delicious lunch at the 9 Pyramids Lounge.

At the 9 Pyramids Lounge, we’re treated to delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, but the best bit? The view! This unique restaurant is unlike anything you’ve been to before. Offering panoramic views of the majestic pyramids surrounded by desert, the pictures we’ll take here are guaranteed to be incredible.

We will also visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, Egypt's newest museum, and the largest archaeological museum in the world, showcasing over 100,000 antiquities, including the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures, many displayed for the first time! Here, we’ll have time to explore the various exhibition halls, marvel at the world’s only Hanging Obelisk and admire the remarkable artifacts on display on the Grand Staircase.

We begin today with an exploration of Sakkara, where we will see the Step Pyramid of Djoser. Designed by Imhotep, the famous vizier of King Djoser, this was the first pyramid ever built and is a groundbreaking monument of ancient architecture. The Step Pyramid of Djoser marked a major evolution from the traditional flat-roofed mastaba tombs. Rising in six distinct tiers, the pyramid was designed as a grand staircase to the heavens. As the centrepiece of a vast mortuary complex, it symbolised royal power and the afterlife, setting the stage for future pyramid building in Egypt.

Special Experience

Tour the historic Serapeum of Sakkara, the burial place of the Apis Bulls

For lunch we will try a popular local dish called Koshary, Egypt’s national dish and a beloved street food. We’ll then visit the 12th-century Saladin Citadel of Cairo and the Mohammed Ali Mosque, built in classic Turkish style, it resembles the great mosques of Istanbul. Our tour will also take us to visit a weaving workshop, to learn about locally made Egyptian carpet.

Finally, we’ll visit a local jewellery shop, that specialises in customised gold and silver cartouches.

We’ll transfer to Cairo airport early this morning for a short flight south to Aswan, gateway to the incredible history, temples and monuments of the region known as Upper Egypt. Located in southern Egypt on the banks of the Nile, Aswan is a city known for its natural beauty, historical significance and rich Nubian heritage. It served as a strategic gateway to Africa in ancient times and was a major trading hub. Aswan is home to some impressive archaeological sites, including the Philae Temple, the Unfinished Obelisk and the Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering marvel that controls the flow of the Nile. On a half day tour we’ll visit the picturesque Philae Temple, located on Agilkia Island. This stunning temple complex, dedicated to the goddess Isis, is renowned for its majestic architecture and captivating history, set against the backdrop of serene waters and lush surroundings. This afternoon we’ll soak up the serenity on board a traditional felucca sailboat, cruising along the Nile and observing life along the palm-fringed banks of the river as our boat takes advantage of the gentle winds and currents. The slow, quiet pace makes it an ideal way to relax and connect with the timeless rhythm of the Nile.

Optional Excursion

Sound & Light Show Philae - Experience the Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple at night as you walk through ancient courtyards illuminated by vivid lights and echoes of powerful narration. Let the dramatic storytelling and visual effects transport you back in time to uncover the secrets, legends and legacy of one of Egypt’s most enchanting temples. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.

We have an early start this morning as we cross the desert to our destination, the incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed twin temples of Abu Simbel. The temples were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, as a monument to himself and his queen, Nefertari. Here, we’ll spend a few hours exploring these fascinating temples before returning to Aswan to board our Nile River cruise ship. We’ll enjoy lunch on board and spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. A great way to while away an afternoon would be up on deck with a cool drink, watching the scenery drift by… there’s nothing like it!

Optional Excursion

Nubian Museum - Visit this fascinating Museum dedicated to Nubian culture and civilisation. 1.5 hours –from $60pp US. Cash only.

Optional Excursion

Nubian Village - Travel by motorboat to a local village, visit a Nubian family and enjoy tea in their home. 3 hours – from $75pp US, including camel ride; from $65pp US, without camel ride. Cash only.

After breakfast we’ll cruise to the riverside Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris. We’ll have some time to explore the temple with our guide, before cruising onward to Edfu, located on the west bank of the Nile River between Esna and Aswan. Renowned for the Temple of Horus dedicated to the Falcon God, our main attraction this afternoon will be a visit to this site, which we will access by bus transfer. This beautiful ancient temple is one of the best-preserved in Egypt and the second largest after Karnak Temple. Continuing our river journey, we sail towards Luxor and cross through the lock at Esna, a highlight of many Nile cruises – this lock helps boats navigate the change in water level caused by the nearby dam. It’s a fascinating process to witness, usually accompanied by lively scenes along the riverbanks and with the small boats that approach to sell textile souvenirs, oftentimes involving merchandise being hurtled through the air to land on deck or into the arms of unsuspecting passengers - it has to be seen to be believed! Tonight, we enjoy a lively, traditional Galabeya party on board.

After breakfast on board, we will set off to explore the West Bank on a half day tour. Our first stop is the spectacular Valley of the Kings, which served as a royal burial chamber for around 500 years. This site is home to legendary kings and queens, their families, and their possessions for the afterlife. Here we’ll explore the network of tombs carved deep into the limestone, where each tomb has a similar pattern of three corridors, an antechamber and a sarcophagus chamber. Hidden in the desert hills, over sixty tombs have been discovered, many adorned with detailed and intricate hieroglyphic scenes of the afterlife.

Special Experience

Descend underground into Tutankhamun’s Tomb, adorned with intricate corridors, and well-preserved hieroglyphic paintings.

Optional Excursion

Hot Air Balloon Ride over the West Bank in the early morning. Includes transport from hotel. 1.5 hours – from $170pp US. Cash only.

Optional Excursion

Deir El Medina & Medinet Habu – Visit one of the most well-preserved ancient settlements in Egypt and the Mortuary Temple of Ramses ll. 3 hours – minimum 4 participants required – from $105pp US, including Nobles Tombs; from $160pp US, including Nefertari’s Tomb (subject to open times). Cash Only

Challenging Day

Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Today we disembark our Nile cruise ship after breakfast and explore Luxor. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, the city is celebrated as one of the world's greatest open-air museums, thanks to its two huge surviving ancient monuments, the Egyptian temple complexes of Karnak and Luxor. Our sightseeing begins at the fascinating Karnak Temple, dedicated primarily to the Pharaoh Amun-Ra. Approximately 30 pharaohs contributed to the temple’s structure over time, which explains its monumental size! The temple complex covers about a hundred hectares and features vast courtyards, towering obelisks, colossal statues and intricately carved hieroglyphs. Its most famous section, the Great Hypostyle Hall contains 134 massive columns in 16 rows, creating an awe-inspiring forest of stone. We’ll then visit Luxor Temple, once connected to Karnak Temple by a 3-kilometre-long Avenue of Sphinxes. Luxor Temple is also home to a 25-metre-tall pink granite obelisk, which was part of a matching pair until the 1830s when one was given to France. It now stands in the centre of the Place de la Concorde in Paris. Unlike many temples dedicated to the gods alone, Luxor Temple also celebrated the divine role of the pharaoh. The temple features beautifully lit grand colonnades, statues and wonderfully preserved reliefs depicting many gods and pharaohs and comes alive – especially at night. This temple was the centrepiece of the Opet Festival, where statues of the gods were paraded from Karnak to Luxor. We’ll visit a local gallery to appreciate the ancient artform of papyrus craft, before checking in to our hotel to enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Optional Excursion

Dendera Temple Complex – Visit one of the best-preserved temples and most important sites of ancient Egypt. 5 hours – minimum 4 participants required – from $75pp US. Cash only.

Optional Excursion

Sound & Light Show at Karnak Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.

Today we say goodbye to Luxor as we transfer to the airport for our flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, we’ll sharpen our haggling skills during a visit to the 14th-century Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo’s most famous market and shopper’s paradise in the Islamic District. Famous for its handmade crafts, it’s also the perfect place to enjoy a traditional Arabic coffee. This centuries old souk is a fascinating maze of narrow alleys bursting with treasures - handmade jewellery, shimmering lanterns, colourful spices, perfumes and souvenirs galore! The scent of incense lingers in the air as shopkeepers call out cheerfully, ready to bargain with a smile. The bazaar isn’t just a place to shop – it’s a living piece of Cairo’s history, where you can sip mint tea in a traditional café, hear the call to prayer echo and practically feel the city’s heartbeat all around you. Later, enjoy some free time before a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Today marks the end of our incredible adventure across Egypt and Jordan. Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! Please note, in order to undertake the following optional tours additional post tour accommodation in Cairo may be required. Please check with your Travel Specialist for details.

Optional Excursion

Coptic Cairo - Discover the ancient sites & culture of Coptic Christians throughout Old Cairo. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.

Optional Excursion

Islamic Cairo - Visit the Gayer Anderson Museum, Ibn Toulon Mosque & El Sultan Hassan Mosque. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.

Optional Excursion

The Pyramids of Dahshur - Dahshur forms the southernmost area of the Memphis Necropolis & contains a number of pyramid complexes & monuments 3 hours – from $65pp US (cash only).

Optional Excursion

National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation – Displaying the civilisation of Egypt from the prehistoric period to the present era. 3 hours – from $80pp US. Cash only.