‘Salam’ and welcome to the bustling hub of Cairo. Set on the iconic Nile River, Cairo is the capital and largest city of Egypt. Home to an incredible array of famous Egyptian landmarks, visitors will find it to be a fascinating and often bewildering mixture of old and new. The culture, monuments and architecture throughout the sprawling metropolis tell many tales of its captivating history, boasting a vibrant mix of Pharaonic, Roman, Greek and Islamic influences. Hailed as the cultural heart of the Middle East, Cairo today is renowned for its diverse industry landscape, thriving art scene and rich blend of culinary wonders.

We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your exhilarating adventure, so we recommend that you arrive at your starting destination by 5.00pm.

Enjoy some free time to freshen up at the hotel, before meeting our fellow travellers at the group welcome dinner this evening.

We’re set for a magical day of touring, visiting some of the sites that frequently top traveller’s bucket lists. We begin at the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara, also known as the Pyramid of Djoser. Believed to have been designed by the famous vizier of King Zoser, Imhotep, the pyramid is made up of six structures stacked on top of each other, forming its distinctive ‘stepped’ appearance. Considered the world’s earliest stone monument, the complex is revered as one of Egypt’s most significant structures due to the construction method serving as inspiration for later architectural accomplishments.

Venturing to the Giza Plateau for lunch, it’s time to indulge in the delicious Middle Eastern cuisine the city is renowned for, but the best bit? The view! This unique restaurant is unlike anywhere you’ve dined before. Offering panoramic views of the majestic pyramids surrounded by desert, the pictures you’ll take here are guaranteed to be incredible.

After lunch, we’ll visit the oldest structures in existence and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the 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.

After breakfast, we will travel to the 12th century Saladin Citadel, one of Cairo’s most magnificent fortifications. Once a residence for the rulers of Egypt, we’ll venture inside the medieval monument to discover more about the Islamic history of the city and visit the Muhammad Ali Mosque. Also referred to as the ‘Alabaster Mosque’ due to the marble panelling adorning its walls, this incredible structure features an elegant blend of Ottoman and European architectural styles.

We then make our way to Cairo’s famous 14th century Khan el Khalili Bazaar. Swarming with local artisans and vibrant vendors, we’ll enjoy a brief coffee stop to soak up the atmosphere. After our visit, we’ll indulge in a late lunch to try a popular local dish called Koshary, considered Egypt’s national dish and a beloved street food.

Departing the wonders of Cairo, we continue on to Wadi el Natroun, a once important location for Egypt’s ancient inhabitants. An area rich in sodium salts and carbonates, the natural elements found here were utilised during the mummification process.

In the evening, we will arrive in the beautiful city of Alexandria on Egypt’s north coast. Located on the Mediterranean Sea, the port city was founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great. It 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.

Waking in the sea-brushed city of Alexandria, we’ll set off early to discover some of its highlights on a half day tour.

First, we’ll take a visit to 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. We’ll then see the Pompey’s Pillar and Catacombs of Kom el Shogafa, an ancient burial site carved out of bedrock that stretches over three levels underneath the city. We’ll also enjoy a tour of the Bibliotheca, a major cultural centre home to a wonderful collection of museums and a spectacular reading room designed to house eight million books.

Our last stop is for a photo at the Citadel of Qaitbay, a spectacular 15th century fortress overlooking the Mediterranean. The defensive structure features high, limestone walls and several towers that have protected Alexandria during a number of infamous sieges over its history.

Concluding our tour, enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Why not explore more of the fascinating museums around the city or take a stroll along the harbour for picturesque views of the coast?

Enjoy a leisurely start today, with some free time before boarding the coach to our next destination.

Our drive 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.

Venturing to the Commonwealth War Cemetery, we’ll explore the poignant memorial that encompasses 7,367 tombs of soldiers laid to rest from all over Britain, New Zealand, Australia, France, India and Malta. We’ll also stop to visit the El Alamein Military Museum, made up of five main halls representing the countries that participated in the battle. Here, we’ll take a moment to view the unique, and incredibly moving, paintings depicting scenes from the war.

We’ll then head back to bustling Cairo, where the evening is at leisure.

It’s an early start this morning, as 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. Constructed as a cult temple, the site was dedicated to the ancient Egyptian Theban Triad: the deities 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.

Take in the passing views of the agricultural landscape this morning as we journey to one of the best-preserved temple complexes of ancient Egypt.

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. The large collection of temples and shrines were constructed across numerous Egyptian eras and feature exquisite detailing and vibrant colours. We’ll take our time here, to explore the magnificent ruins that offer a glimpse into the beliefs and practices of this ancient civilisation.

Returning to the hotel in the afternoon, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax or explore more of Luxor. And with a history dating back to 3200 BC, there is so much to discover. Why not take a stroll along the Nile for scenic views over the river and surrounding areas?

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.

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. Following our exploration, 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.

Waking to the sights and sounds of life along the river, enjoy a free morning on the riverboat to relax or soak up the surrounding scenery. Flanked by both lush greenery and arid landscapes, spending the next few days on the water offers us a fascinating perspective of Egypt’s unique natural environment.

We’ll then spend the afternoon cruising along the Nile as we set sail for the city of Edfu. Kick back and unwind as we take in the passing views, enjoying a different perspective of the temples and tombs that line the riverbank. As we glide through the water, we’ll also enjoy a glimpse into the daily lives of the Nubian villages that reside on the river’s edge.

Continuing our river journey south, we pass through the Esna lock - 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.

In the evening, we’ll arrive in the port of Edfu where we’ll dock for the night.

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 sandstone temple is one of the best-preserved in Egypt and the second largest after Karnak Temple. Towering at 36m high, it is one of the few ancient buildings with its roof still intact.

We’ll then cruise to the riverside Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus. The temple is unusual in nature as it is in fact a ‘double’ temple, meaning that the complex honours two gods, and remnants of Sobek’s crocodiles and Horus’ falcons can be seen throughout their respective sides. Resting on a bend overlooking the Nile, the structure is perfectly symmetrical along its main, central axis.

Departing Kom Ombo in the early evening, we continue on to Aswan. Tonight, we’ll have the opportunity to experience a traditional (and fun!) Galabeya party on board, dressing in festive garments, and enjoying music and dancing.

Although it’s an early start this morning, we’ll be rewarded with one of the most famous sights in Egypt, as we cross the expansive desert to Abu Simbel. Our destination is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed twin temples of Abu Simbel, carved into a sandstone cliff in the Nubian desert.

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. The Great Temple of King Rameses II dominates the site with its four, 20-metre-tall, seated statues of the king. Renowned as ruling during one of the most prosperous and powerful eras in ancient Egyptian history, the walls of the main halls are decorated with scenes of Rameses II’s military campaigns. We will spend a few hours exploring the temples before returning to our Nile cruise ship.

In the afternoon, we’ll relax on board a traditional felucca sailboat, a small wooden boat that has sailed the Nile for centuries. Soak up the peaceful atmosphere, observing life along the banks of the river as our boat takes advantage of the gentle winds and currents.

Today, we disembark the Nile cruise ship and bid farewell to the amazing crew. Our day will then be spent exploring the incredible sights of Aswan.

Our first stop 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. Dedicated to Isis, the goddess of magic, 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.

Dotted along the Nile River, you’ll find traditional Nubian villages that feature bright and colourful mud-brick homes. Known for their rich history and traditions, Nubian history can be traced back thousands of years. Renowned for their unique language, vibrant music and colourful crafts, preserving a distinctive cultural identity, we’ll experience the atmosphere of a local market before being welcomed into the home of a Nubian family.

Later, we’ll return to our hotel where the evening is at leisure.

After breakfast this morning, we’ll transfer to Aswan airport for our flight back to Cairo.

Today, we’ll 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 world, the GEM is home to over 100,000 ancient Egyptian artefacts. After being greeted by a 3,200-year-old, 83-ton statue of Ramses II in the GEM’s main entrance we’ll spend the afternoon exploring the vast collection of exhibition halls, including its centrepiece, the King Tutankhamun galleries.

We’ll enjoy some free time to wander around the museum before boarding the coach for a drive out to the Pyramids of Dahshur. This ancient necropolis 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, and the ‘Red Pyramid’, named for the red limestone used in its construction.

This evening, we’ll check into our hotel before farewelling the spectacular sights of Egypt over a flavourful dinner at the hotel restaurant.

This morning, we will transfer to Cairo airport for our flight to Amman, crossing the border into Jordan. Home to some of mankind’s earliest settlements, the rich history and unique landscapes of Jordan have fascinated travellers for centuries. Most famously known for its rose-coloured city of Petra and the sandy dunes of Wadi Rum (which we’ll explore in the coming days), Jordan is bursting with an incredible array of archaeological sites, and a diverse food culture centred around rich and hearty flavours.

We begin in Amman, Jordan’s vibrant capital and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of the world. Also hailing as Jordan’s largest city, Amman is a fascinating destination of contrasts, seamlessly blending together history and modernity. Perched upon a series of rolling hills, the city has evolved beyond its early beginnings to now centre as a thriving economic, financial and trade hub.

After arriving at our hotel, we’ll take a moment to settle in before meeting for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Delight in a delicious introduction to the fragrant flavours of the region, accompanied by some warm Jordanian hospitality.

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 city was buried in sand before being gradually revealed through a series of excavations starting in 1925 and continuing to this day. Our tour will take us through the colonnaded street, 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.

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, before we 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. Taking a walk through the ancient ruins will give us an insight into the history of Jordan and its various civilisations, while enjoying panoramic views of the cityscape below.

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 tuck into 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. Snaked by numerous trails, enjoy a scenic walk through its rugged landscapes, ending at a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the reserve — a beautiful vantage point to snap some breathtaking photographs!

After breakfast, settle back into the comfort of the coach as we make our way to Jordan’s only coastal city, the picturesque Aqaba on the Red Sea. 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.

Arriving to Aqaba in the late morning, the remainder of the day is at leisure to explore more of this relaxed city, or to simply kick back and relax. A city that enjoys year-round sunshine, why not spend the afternoon exploring its many highlights? Take a stroll through the main square before visiting the Al-Hussein Bin Ali Mosque and exploring its lovely port — all within walking distance. With a history dating back to pre-biblical times, you might also wish to uncover the stories behind its Ottoman and Arab roots (including the infamous battle that saw Lawrence of Arabia rise to fame), with a visit to the Aqaba Archaeological Museum.

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 warm hospitality. Traces of ancient civilisations exist in the many carved inscriptions 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, 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.

Take an exciting 4WD tour through one of the most stunning desertscapes in the world. As we bump along the otherworldly terrain, enjoy the passing sights of towering canyons, rock formations and caverns. Then, as the sun begins to set across the landscape, we’ll retreat to our accommodation to spend an unforgettable night in a Bedouin-style desert camp.

Waking up in the breathtaking beauty of Wadi Rum, we’ll savour our last moments in this tranquil setting before continuing our journey to the fascinating site of ‘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 inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site since 1985. Enjoy some time here to explore the ruins, which include rock-cut tombs, temples, cisterns and hallowed spaces showcasing the Nabataean’s incredible engineering abilities.

We’ll then take a short drive, making a quick stop along the way for a bite to eat, before arriving in Petra. Located in Jordan’s southwestern desert, Petra is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the earliest inhabitants of this ancient caravan-city have been traced all the way back to prehistoric times.

Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious group dinner at a local restaurant in Petra.

We’re in for a fascinating day of discovery as we explore the famous Lost City of Petra on a guided tour. Carved into the sheer rock face by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago, the city once served 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. It’s this very setting that has led to it being one of the most Googled film locations in the world, having served as the backdrop for iconic blockbusters such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

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. Believed to be a mausoleum, this staggering tomb is considered to be one of the most elaborate monuments carved by the Nabataeans. We’ll 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.

Leaving Petra, we’ll travel along the King’s Highway, an ancient trade route bordering the scenic valleys and canyons of the Great Rift Valley.

Our first stop 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.

We then continue to Carob Farm, where we’ll be greeted by the farm keeper who will briefly share 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!

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 some free time this morning to indulge in a spa treatment at the hotel or take a dip in the infamous Dead Sea! Unlike any other body of water on earth, experience an unforgettable moment as you float upon its salty surface. You might also wish to cover your body in the therapeutic mud, said to have amazing benefits for your skin.

We then travel out to Mount Nebo, the centre for pilgrimages since the earliest Christan 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.

Our next stop is Madaba, known as ‘The City of Mosaics’, where underneath almost every house lies a fine Byzantine mosaic. Here, we visit the Greek Orthodox Church of St George, home to Madaba’s main attraction, a vivid 6th century Byzantine mosaic map showing the entire region from Jordan and Palestine in the north, to Egypt in the South.

We’ll then make our way back to the city of Amman, where, in the evening, we’ll toast to our favourite moments on tour at a special farewell dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, as we bid farewell to the wonders of Egypt and Jordan. We hope your journey leaves you with fabulous memories to look back on long after you’ve returned home!