Your Itinerary
Welcome to Jordan, a country that is home to some of mankind’s earliest settlements. We begin in Amman, Jordan’s bustling and vibrant capital and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of the world. Jordan’s largest city, Amman is a fascinating destination of contrasts, seamlessly blending together history and modernity.
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.
Day 3 - Amman – Jerash – Amman
This morning our eyes are set on exploring Jerash, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world. This fascinating ancient city was buried in sand before being gradually revealed through a series of excavations starting in 1925 and continuing to this day. In an in depth tour, we’ll walk through and uncover the colonnaded streets, amphitheatre, churches, temples and the vast Roman Forum.
Later, we’ll take a short drive to the impressive Ajloun Castle or ‘Qalaat Rabadh’ (Arabic for ‘Hilltop Castle’). This Islamic Castle was built in the 12th century and served as a military fort to protect the region from invading Crusader forces. Here, we’ll also be treated to unparalleled views over the rolling hills of the Jordan Valley and the desert that surrounds it.
Special Experience
Delve into the Islamic practice of Arabic calligraphy at the Calligraphy House and try your hand at perfecting this ancient art form.
Here we’ll learn in more depth about the stunning art of Arabic calligraphy. Run by local women, we will uncover its history and the close ties it has with Islamic culture. The women will introduce us to the main principles of Arabic calligraphy styles, and we’ll get the chance to practice writing our name using the traditional dried reed instrument as a pen.
We’ll then return to Amman where the evening is for you to enjoy at leisure.
We begin our day with a visit to the amazing Amman Citadel that is perched atop the Jabal Al Qal’a, one of the cities highest hills and one of the seven Jabals that originally made up the city. We will walk through this ancient ruin to gain insight into Jordan’s history while also enjoying incredible panoramic views.
We’ll then make our way to Dana, one of Jordan’s many hidden gems. This 15th century stone village is a wonderful place to enjoy some traditional village atmosphere and spectacular scenery. On arrival, we’ll enjoy a traditional Bedouin lunch, before checking into our accommodation.
Dana is home to the Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan’s largest nature reserve where beauty, history and biodiversity go hand-in-hand. The reserve is a melting pot of hundreds of species of flora and fauna, and this afternoon we’ll get the chance to stroll through this fascinating location.
Day 5 - Dana – Aqaba (Red Sea)
Jordan’s only coastal city, the picturesque Aqaba on the Red Sea, is our destination for today. Jordan’s premier tourism resort and only seaport, Aqaba captivates visitors with its stunning Red Sea coastline, rich history, and amazing location, attracting thousands of travellers each year. This relaxed town is situated on the southern tip of Jordan, and yet despite its beach town vibe, the city retains much of its traditional Jordanian charm.
On arrival in Aqaba, the remainder of the day is at leisure to explore more of this relaxed city, or to simply kick back and relax.
Optional Excursion
Glass Bottom Boat – Cruise through the crystal-clear waters of the Aqaba Marine Park on a glass bottom boat and enjoy a delicious lunch. 3 hours – from $50pp US. Cash only.
Day 6 - Aqaba (Red Sea) – Wadi Rum
Today our eyes are set on travelling to the breathtaking Wadi Rum. This protected desert wilderness in southern Jordan spans over 700 kilometres-squared and is home to nomadic Bedouin tribes renowned for their tradition warm hospitality. Traces of ancient civilisations exist in the many carved inscriptions to be found throughout the Wadi Rum area, from pictographs to Thamudic, Nabatean and Arabic texts. The most lasting monuments in Wadi Rum, however, are those carved by nature – the natural rock bridges, the towering rose-coloured sand dunes and vast peaks.
Also known as the ‘Valley of the Moon’, Wadi Rum’s exotic landscapes are a favourite location for keen filmmakers, with a variety of blockbusters utilising the region’s space-like vistas, including Lawrence of Arabia, the Martian and Red Planet.
Special Experience
Enjoy an exclusive BBQ lunch in the heart of the Wadi Rum desert.
In one of the most stunning desertscapes in the world, we’ll take an exciting 4WD tour and spend an unforgettable night in a Bedouin-style desert camp.
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.
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.
Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious group dinner at a local restaurant in Petra.
Located in Jordan’s southwestern desert, Petra is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. This morning 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, it was 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, the Treasury. We will also visit Pharaoh’s Castle, the Triumphal Arch, the Amphitheatre situated near the top of a large hill and the stunning Monastery. The view from here is worth the 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.
Leaving Petra, our first stop today is 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 venture to the lowest point on Earth – the iconic Dead Sea. 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!
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Why not take a dip in the Dead Sea and cover your body in the therapeutic mud, said to have amazing benefits for your skin?
Day 10 - Dead Sea – Amman
This morning we farewell the Dead Sea and make our way back to the bustling city of Amman.
First, we stop in Madaba, known as 'The City of Mosaics’, where underneath almost every house 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, the centre for pilgrimages since the earliest Christian times. Mount Nebo is one of the most sacred holy sites of Jordan as it is said to be the place where Moses was buried.
Special Experience
Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience in Madaba, touring the farm before delighting in a delicious lunch.
On arrival at Carob Farm, we’ll be greeted by the farm keeper who will briefly share with us the farm’s history and their natural farming philosophy. We’ll set off on a tour of the property, before transferring to Carob House in the town’s centre. In a beautiful 1930’s restored-house, we’ll enjoy scrumptious dishes made of locally-sourced ingredients, with each course reflecting a cultural story that will be interpreted by the local host!
After this amazing experience, we’ll make our way back to Amman, where the rest of the day is at leisure.
We will transfer to the airport today, for our flight to Cairo. Set on the Nile River, Cairo is the capital and largest city of Egypt. Home to many famous Egyptian landmarks, visitors will find it to be a fascinating and often bewildering mixture of old and new.
On arrival, we’ll meet our guide and transfer to the hotel before a group dinner to welcome us to Egypt.
Day 12 - Cairo – Giza – Cairo
We’re set for a magical day of touring, visiting some of the sites that frequently top traveller’s bucket lists. We begin our Egyptian touring at the oldest structures in existence and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the amazing Great Pyramids of Giza. Serving as the tomb of the pharaoh Khufu, the largest pyramid was originally 481 feet high and has managed to stay largely intact since its construction in 2600 BC. The two slightly smaller pyramids were built for Khufu’s son, Khafre, and grandson, Menkaure, likewise as burial places for three generations of Egyptian kings.
We’ll then 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. This iconic statue is believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre and is thought to represent him, yet its construction and purpose remains a fascinating mystery.
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 you’ll take here are guaranteed to be incredible.
Early this afternoon, we visit the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Giza, located a short distance from the pyramids themselves. One of the largest, most modern and renowned museums in the entire world, the GEM is home to over 100,000 ancient Egyptian artefacts. We’re greeted by a 3,200 year old and 83-ton statue of Ramses II in the GEM’s main entrance, so you know we’re in for a real treat exploring this fascinating place!
Please note: The Grand Egyptian Museum partially opened in October 2024. Your visit will include main galleries currently available to the public. We will also continue to visit the Egyptian Museum, where Tutankhamun’s collection still is displayed, until the GEM’s official opening date. This date will be announced by the Government of Egypt in the near future.
Day 13 - Cairo – Alexandria
After breakfast we will travel to the beautiful city of Alexandria on Egypt’s north coast. The port city located on the Mediterranean Sea was founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great. Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt and is best known for the Lighthouse of Alexandria (Pharos), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
En route, we’ll stop at Wadi el Natroun, a once important location for ancient Egyptians. An area rich in sodium salts and carbonates, the elements found here were utilised during the mummification process.
We will take a half day tour around Alexandria and visit the Graeco Roman Museum, home to an array of artifacts from the Greco-Roman era that provide a fascinating glimpse into the civilisation of ancient Egypt. Other highlights include Pompey’s Pillar, the Catacombs, and the New Bibliotheca. Our last stop is for a photo at the Citadel of Qaitbay, a spectacular 15th century fortress overlooking the Mediterranean.
Day 14 - Alexandria – El Alamein – Cairo
Our journey takes us westward through the winding dunes along the Mediterranean coast, following the historic path of Field Marshal Montgomery to El Alamein. This coastal town is steeped in history and was once the site of two pivotal battles between British and Axis forces during World War II. These battles became a crucial turning point in World War II’s North African campaign, with the Allied forces then able to invade Italy.
Special Experience
Visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery and Military Museum associated with the Battle of El Alamein.
The Commonwealth War Cemetery encompasses 7,367 tombs of war victims from all over Britain, New Zealand, Australia, France, India and Malta. We’ll also stop to visit the El Alamein Military Museum including five main halls (representing the countries that participated in the battle) and view the unique, and incredibly moving, paintings of the war scenes.
Later this afternoon, we’ll head back to bustling Cairo, where the night is at leisure.
This morning we say goodbye to the Egyptian capital and fly to Luxor in Upper Egypt. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, the city surrounds two huge, surviving ancient monuments.
Upon arrival we’ll begin sightseeing with a visit to the fascinating Karnak Temple, dedicated to the Pharaoh Amun. Approximately 30 pharaohs contributed to the temple’s structure over time, which explains its monumental size! This extraordinary complex covers more than 2 square-kilometres, and it was built, restored, and decorated over a 1,500 year time period. It was built as a cult temple, and was dedicated to the gods Amun, Mut and Khonsu.
We’ll then visit Luxor Temple, 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. We’ll also visit a local gallery to appreciate the ancient artform of papyrus craft, with an opportunity to purchase the artwork to take home.
Special Experience
Take a half-day tour to Dendera Temple complex and see one of the best-preserved temples and most important sites of ancient Egypt, the Temple of Hathor (the goddess of pleasure and love).
The main temple of Dendera is dedicated to the goddess Hathor, who’s associated with love, pleasure, beauty and music. Beauty can be seen everywhere in this complex, with well-preserved artwork and reliefs found within the temple reflecting religious rituals and mythological stories. Its exquisite detailing and vibrant colours make Dendera Temple complex a fascinating location to uncover.
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to relax or explore at your own pace.
Optional Excursion
Sound & Light Show at Karnak Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Day 17 - Luxor – Nile Cruise
This morning we discover the sights of Luxor on a half day tour. Our first destination is the spectacular Valley of the Kings. Serving as a royal burial chamber for around 500 years, it is home to legendary kings and queens, their families, and their possessions for the afterlife. Here we’ll explore tombs carved deep into the limestone rock, where each tomb has a similar pattern of three corridors, an antechamber and a sarcophagus chamber.
Special Experience
Descend underground into Tutankhamun’s Tomb, adorned with intricate corridors, ancient artefacts, and well-preserved hieroglyphic paintings.
Our next destination is the spectacular Temple of Hatshepsut. Queen Hatshepsut was one of only a few women to be given the title of pharaoh. We’ll then visit the Colossi of Memnon, a historic landmark consisting of two massive statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III. We then stop at a nearby alabaster workshop, to learn how the locally quarried stone is carved and crafted.
This afternoon we embark on our Nile River cruise ship. Lunch is served on board and the rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy at leisure.
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
Luxor Museum – Discover one of Egypt’s best museums, boasting some of the country’s best-preserved artefacts. The Luxor Museum is home to an abundance of ancient antiquities from the Theban region, featuring statues, pottery, jewellery and well-preserved mummies. 1.5 hours – from $60pp US. 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.
Enjoy the morning on board your riverboat, then set off and spend the afternoon cruising along the Nile as we set sail for Edfu, so kick back and relax as you take in the serene views of the passing Nile River.
We’ll also pass through the Esna Lock to continue our journey south. Situated near the town of Esna along the river, this crucial piece of infrastructure is designed to manage the Nile’s flow and allows vessels to bypass the Esna Barrage, a dam that regulates water for irrigation purposes. Constructed in the 20th century, the lock ensures continuous river navigation despite varying water levels and seasonal changes.
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
Located on the west bank of the Nile River between Esna and Aswan, you will find the small city of Edfu. This Egyptian city has a population of approximately sixty thousand people. It is famous for the Temple of Horus, dedicated to the Falcon God, the main attraction which we’ll visit this morning by bus transfer. This beautiful ancient temple is one of the best-preserved in Egypt and the second largest after Karnak Temple.
We’ll then cruise to the riverside Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus. It’s an usual ‘double’ temple, meaning that this complex honours two gods, and remnants of Sobek’s crocodiles and Horus’ falcons can be seen throughout their respective sides.
Departing Kom Ombo in the early evening, we continue on to Aswan. Tonight, we enjoy a traditional (and fun!) Galabeya party on board.
An early start this morning as we cross the expansive desert to Abu Simbel. Our destination is 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. We will spend a few hours exploring the temples before returning to our Nile cruise ship.
This afternoon we’ll relax on board a traditional felucca sailboat, cruising along the Nile and observing life along the banks of the river as our boat takes advantage of the gentle winds and currents.
Optional Excursion
Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Day 21 - Nile Cruise – Aswan
Today, we disembark the Nile cruise ship and bid farewell to the amazing crew. Our day will be spent exploring the incredible sights of Aswan.
Our first stop of the day is the enchanting Philae Temple, a temple that was relocated to Agilkia Island to save it from rising waters during the High Dam’s construction. It’s dedicated to the goddess Isis and the complex is a seamless blend of ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman architectural styles. Here, we’ll marvel at the majestic colonnades and intricate reliefs.
Special Experience
Uncover the fascinating Nubian Museum, before navigating the waterways of the Nile to a Nubian village, visiting the local market and a Nubian family in their home.
Known for their rich history and traditions, Nubian history can be traced back thousands of years. The Nubian people are renowned for their unique language, vibrant music and colourful crafts, preserving a distinctive cultural identity. Dotted along the Nile River, you’ll find traditional Nubian villages that feature bright and colourful mud-brick homes.
We’ll return to our hotel where the evening is at leisure.
We’ll transfer to Aswan airport today, for our flight back to Cairo.
On arrival, we’ll begin with a visit to the 12th century Saladin Citadel of Cairo, serving throughout history as both a royal residence and military barracks, and the Mohammed Ali Mosque, one of the most prominent Ottoman-style landmarks in Cairo. We’ll then drive to the 14th century Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, a famous bazaar and souq in the historic centre of Cairo. Here, you can shop for authentic souvenirs and delicious spices, as well as just soaking up the local bustling atmosphere.
We’ll stop at a local jewellery shop that specialises in customised gold and silver cartouches, before visiting a weaving workshop to learn about locally made Egyptian carpet.
After we’ve finished our touring for the day, we’ll enjoy a late lunch to try a popular local dish called Koshary considered Egypt’s national dish and a beloved street food.
Our day begins by discovering the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara, believed to have been designed by the famous vizier of King Zoser, Imhotep before continuing to the Pyramids of Dahshur. This site was used as funerary grounds beginning in the time of the Fourth Dynasty, where King Senefru built two of his three pyramids: the 'Bent' pyramid, named for the angle of the sides, & the 'Red Pyramid' named for the red limestone used in its construction.
Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious group farewell dinner.
Today marks the completion of our incredible adventure across Egypt and Jordan. Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to Egypt and begin our journey home. 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
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.
Day 25 - Arrive Australia
Day 25 - Arrive Australia
