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Journey Through Egypt and Jordan

About this tour.

Experience a dramatic world beyond imagination as you enter into lands of legends, relics, and indescribable beauty. Visit the famous Pyramids of Giza and the stoic Sphinx. Unwind on a 3-night cruise on the Nile, the world’s longest river. Take in Petra, the “Rose Red City” that appears as if it emerged straight from the rock bed. Participate in an Arabic cooking class, where you’ll use fresh ingredients from local markets to create delectable flavors. Admire the ethereal landscape of the desert city of Wadi Rum, the “Valley of the Moon.” Indulge at a deluxe spa resort on the Northern shore of the Dead Sea. Eons of history and iconic wonders, mouthwatering bites of savory cuisine, and stretching sunsets fading against the desert horizon – this is the essence of Egypt and Jordan.

Your Tour Includes

• 6 Handpicked Accommodations
• 5 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Giza Pyramids & Sphinx
• Historic Cairo

Your Tour at a Glance

12 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Explorations

On Tour Air

Customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $100.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

On tour air included.

• The cost of all internal flights on tour or within an extension are included into the total tour cost on our website and brochures.
• Purchasing internal flights through Collette is now required on tours where applicable.
• This price continues to exclude all round-trip air getting to and from the tour, as well as any additional air segments required to arrive at or depart from an extension.
• The cost displayed is based on availability at the time of booking.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Stand before one of the seven ancient wonders of the world - the Pyramids of Giza.

Meander through historic Petra, the “Rose Red City.”

Take in the striking landscape of Wadi Rum, the “Valley of the Moon.”

Cultural Experiences:

Discover the secrets of the Nile, the world’s longest river, on a 3-night cruise.

Enjoy a viewing of the tombs of King Tut and Ramses VI during a tour of the Valley of the Kings.

Connect with locals at a cooperative advancing women’s employment in Jordan.

Culinary Inclusions:

Taste your way through Amman’s street food culture during dinner in the Jordanian capital.

Enjoy a traditional Bedouin lunch baked in the sand of Wadi Rum’s desert.

Prepare your meal and eat family-style at an Arabic cooking class.

• 3-Night Nile River Cruise
• Choice on Tour: High Tea at Winter Palace or Karnak Temple
• Valley of the Kings
• Choice on Tour: Jordanian Family Home Visit or Petra in Depth Exploration or Little Petra
• Impact Moment
• Home Hosted Lunch

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour, upgrade your room.

Hotel Upgrade

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Room Upgrade

Hotel-Sheraton Cairo Hotel Casino

We are pleased to now offer a limited number of optional Partial Nile View room upgrades during your stay in Cairo on Days 2, 3, and 4 while at Sheraton Cairo Hotel & Casino. This upgrade is also available on the optional prenight if you have purchased it, and offers a view of the bustling boats and city landscapes along the Nile. If interested, please contact Collette’s Customer Care team to inquire about purchasing this upgrade which is subject to price and availability at time of booking.

*Total for all passengers

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Visit the great sun temples of Abu Simbel, built by Ramses II at the height of his New Kingdom reign. In one of the world's greatest cooperative preservation efforts, these temples were dismantled and moved in 1968 to save them from the flooding of the Aswan Dam. The Temple of Ramses II was constructed so that the sun's rays would illuminate four statues of Egyptian deities within the sanctuary on his birthday and on the anniversary of his coronation, October 20 and February 20. The temple is fronted by four colossal figures of Ramses II seated with the gods and attended by his Queen and daughters. The smaller temple is dedicated to Queen Nefertari, who appears as Hathor, the goddess of love, joy and fertility.

Dive into Egyptian culture before your tour even begins. Get your first taste with lunch at a local restaurant, featuring traditional Egyptian cuisine. After, move on to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. This contemporary 5,300,000 square foot space sits in the historic neighborhood of Fustat. The museum first opened in 2017 and is home to a collection of 50,000 artifacts, tracing the Egyptian civilization from prehistoric times to today. On April 3, 2021 the world watched in awe as the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities relocated here the Royal Mummies during the stunning Pharaohs’ Golden Parade. The 22 mummies (18 kings and 4 queens) of Egypt’s most important pharaohs and queens were displayed on the streets of Cairo as they were transported from the Museum in Tahrir Square to their new home in the Museum of Egyptian Civilization. This large collection of royal mummies includes the likes of King Ramses II, the most famous pharaoh of the New Kingdom, and Queen Hatshepsut, who came to rule at a time when women did not become pharaohs. With the expert guidance of a local Egyptologist, enjoy a visit of this impressive museum – a perfect introduction to your exploration of Egypt. This optional tour is operated by a local representative and requires guests to have a pre-night hotel stay in Cairo. The optional is available from January 1, 2024 onwards.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Sheraton Cairo Hotel & Casino From $100 per night

Sheraton Cairo Hotel & Casino

Anakato wadi kiki nubian houses, sonesta st. george 1, amman marriott hotel, movenpick resort petra.

Nights 9-10

Movenpick Resort and Spa Dead Sea

Nights 11-12

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• Wonders of Egypt
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EGYPT JOURNEYS

Our journeys in Egypt present the ultimate travel experience with unmatched sights of beauty. Home to impressive civilizations for millennia, journey in premium comfort along the life-giving Nile through the exotic lands of Pyramids, pharaohs and their gorgeous temples. Each of our exclusive journeys is well-paced for you to enjoy your cultural discovery with personal leisure time aplenty.

• Best of Jordan

JORDAN JOURNEYS

Journey into a fabled land of otherworldly adventures in premium comfort. Visit the enchanting vibrant capital Amman, the Rose City of Petra, and dive deep into history through the ancient ruins of Ajloun Castle and the stunning Greco-Roman settlement at Jerash. Envisage the look of Mars as you safari into the marvellous landscape of Wadi Rum.

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Explore the incredible treasures of Egypt and Jordan on an exquisite 16-day adventure.

Roam the bustling bazaars and astounding museums of Cairo before witnessing the mighty Pyramids. Soak in the marvellous wonders scattered along the Nile on a superior Nile Cruiser for 4 days. Fly back to Cairo and to Amman to launch the Jordan leg of your tour, saving much-valuable time and energy. Uncover the amazing gems of Jordan as the capital Amman, ruins of Jerash, Petra and Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea.

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Explore the incredible treasures of Egypt and Jordan on an exquisite 16-day adventure.   Roam the bustling bazaars and astounding museums of Cairo before witnessing the mighty Pyramids. Soak in the marvellous wonders scattered along the Nile on a superior Nile Cruiser for 4 days. Fly back to Ca...

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• Day 1 Cairo
• Day 2 Pyramids and the Sphinx
• Day 3 Nile Cruise
• Day 4 Nile Cruise
• Day 5 Nile Cruise
• Day 6 Nile Cruise, Abu Simbel
• Day 7 Aswan, Cairo
• Day 8 Cairo
• Day 9 Cairo, Amman
• Day 10 Amman
• Day 11 Jerash, Ajloun, Dead Sea
• Day 12 Dead Sea, Madaba, Mt. Nebo, Shobak
• Day 13 Rose City
• Day 14 Petra, Wadi Rum
• Day 15 Wadi Rum, Amman
• Day 16 Amman

Welcome to Egypt

Stylish Hand-Picked Hotels

Crown plaza cairo west.

Located in the entertainment district, Crowne Plaza West Cairo Arkan, an IHG Hotel is a great choice for a stay in Sheikh Zayed City. The outdoor pool is a great spot to take a dip, and guests can grab a bite to eat at Mayrig, one of 3 restaurants, which serves international cuisine.

Optional Experiences

Sightseeing activities.

Fly to Luxor

Steigenberger legacy nile cruiser.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating past of Egypt on the Steigenberger Legacy, sail the Nile on a cruiser in comfortable cabins with en-suite facilities.

MS Tulip Nile Cruiser

Prepare yourself to touch the beauty and the greatness of the ancient Egyptians` wonderland and build a wonderful memory in a floating hotel experience between Luxor and Aswan.

Fly to Cairo

Cairo City Tour

Flight to Amman

Amman marriott hotel.

Amman Marriott Hotel offers all the hallmarks of a brilliant travel experience - from a prime location in the city center to 5-star amenities and award-winning service. Hotel amenities include a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools and a 5-star spa.

Amman City Tour

Depart for Dead Sea

The marriott resort & spa.

Nestled on the shores of the iconic Dead Sea, Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa is a short distance from attractions including Mount Nebo, The Baptism Site, Mujib Reserve and more. The services include a 24-hour fitness center, a signature spa, with Dead Sea salt pool, indoor & outdoor pools.

Depart for Petra

Petra marriott hotel.

Embracing traditional hospitality and overlooking Jordan's timeless wonder, the Petra Marriott Hotel offers anticipatory & traditional service designed to exceed all expectations. For relaxation, the hotel has an outdoor pool with breathtaking views of the Petra Mountains, a Turkish bath and a sauna.

The Old Village Hotel

Built in the 1800s, The Old Village has a charming architecture that is typical of the region. The hotel is very close to Petra and offers spectacular views over the Shahara Mountains. There is a sauna & indoor swimming pool, just what's needed to relax after a busy day visiting Petra.

Depart for Wadi Rum

Saraya rum private luxury camp.

Nestled in the Wadi Rum Canyon, Saraya Rum offers its guests a luxury stay. The campsite features spacious air-conditioned tents with private bathroom.

Depart for Amman

Ciconia Exclusive Tours include premium services such as 5-star accommodation, modern comfortable transportation, incredible sights & all entrance fees, breakfasts & most dinners, tips, porterage and more.

5 Star Hotels

Accommodation in comfortable and ideally located hotels, superior campsite in Wadi Rum.

Comfortable Transportation

Air-conditioned coach or minibus, domestic flights between Cairo & Luxor and between Aswan & Cairo , International flight between Cairo and Amman, Wadi Rum Jeep Safari

Nile Cruise

Nile Cruiser with superior facilities including an outdoor pool on-board.

Most Dinners

15 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 13 Dinners

Egyptologist Travel Director

Local & Expert Egyptologist Travel Director throughout your trip.

Journey Highlights

Must see sights, hidden gems & authentic experiences. Unique itineraries, more inclusions.

All Entrance Fees To All Sights

Entrance fees to all cultural, historical and natural sites on tour.

Private Airport Transfer

Complimentary private airport transfers on arrival and departure dates.

Baggage Handling

Seamless baggage handling, delivered to your room at every hotel.

All Tips, Taxes And Porterage Charges

Tips at the hotels and restaurants, all taxes and porterage fees.

Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

DATES AND RATES

Share with your travel companion, your own single room, enjoy a room just for you.

Home of Ajlun Castle built in 1184 shows great examples of Islamic architecture. Ajlun Archaeological Museum has all sorts of artefacts from the region.

Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt, it's more Mediterranean city than middle-east, it was also an important port town during the hellenistic time, most popular tourist attractive mark is it's Library.

The modern and ancient capital of Jordan is one of the oldest inhabited cities. The city's modern buildings blend amazingly with the remnants of ancient civilizations.

Sunniest city of Egypt and a popular touristic stop for many cruises. The local market here is an excellent place to do some shopping and the best place to find Egyptian fresh spices.

With the Great Pyramids of Giza, ancient temples, magnificent monuments, and the Egyptian Antiquities Museum, Cairo offers an experience of a lifetime.

With a 30 minute drive from Amman you reach this unique spot in Jordan. Dead Sea brings a sense of unreality to any traveler passing through.

Edfu has the most complete and best-preserved temple in Egypt, the Ptolemaic Temple of Horus, which was constructed between 237 BC and 57 BC

The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and the only one still remaining to this day. An absolute must see.

Less than an hour drive from Amman takes you 2000 years back in time. Jerash hosts the best preserved sites of Roman architecture in the world outside of Italy.

Kom Ombo means ‘hill of the gold’ crowned with Temple of Komombo. The temple is unusual as one side is dedicated to the god Haroesis and the other side to Sobek.

A top travel destination in Egypt with a wealth of historic monuments and buildings bringing Egypt’s fabled past to life. Luxor is called the world’s greatest open air museum.

Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is described as ‘one of the most precious cultural properties of mankind's cultural heritage'. Simply amazing.

Philae Temple

This beautiful temple complex is one of the most picturesque in all of Egypt. It sits on Aglika Island just south of the old Aswan Dam.

The oldest complete stone building complex in history was built as Djoser's step pyramid and it is located in Sakkara.

Shobak Castle

King Baldwin built Shobak Castle in 1115 as a form of defense. This crusader castle was known to the crusaders as Mont Real which means the Fortress of the Royal Mount. It stood strong in many battles until it was defeated in 1189.

Absolutely stunning in its natural beauty, Wadi Rum summarizes the romance of the desert. You may meet some friendly Bedouins living close by at the desert.

• Egypt and Jordan Tours

8 Day Road from Petra to Cairo

Description.

• Inquire Now

This Egypt and Jordan Tour Packages will make you speechless after visiting the ancient city of Petra and Cairo witness the beauty of middle east. See the amazing Roman monuments in Jordan. See the Great Giza Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum among many other artifacts. You will travel in a combined tour between Jordan and Egypt that Mix spectacular wonders of history and the ancient world on an 8-day trip from Amman to Petra and Cairo, an easy way to tour two fascinating countries without the hassle of booking separate hotels, transport, and meals. Highlights include the ancient Nabatean city of Petra in Jordan, the Giza Pyramids, Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, the Egyptian monuments in the most famous Museum there, Saqqara, and Old Cairo, you have to ensure a worry-free adventure.

Tour Details

Why you'll love this trip:.

This 8-day itinerary through Egypt and Jordan takes you to places off the beaten path.

Rock-hewn amphitheaters, desert dune bashing and reef exploring – this trip may be quick, but it packs in a lot of action. Take an eight-day Experience through the best of Jordan and Egypt to discover the most epic of histories and striking of landscapes. Wander the ancient city of Petra, relax along the Gulf of Aqaba coastline, and finish up among the souqs and pyramids in Cairo. 

Spend a whole day uncovering the majesty and mystery of Petra. Follow your local leader down the narrow path of the Siq for your first unforgettable glimpse of the hand-carved Treasury.

Get ready for a wide-ranging adventure showcasing the region’s natural wonders and fascinating cultures, offering the perfect combination of guided excursions with free time to explore at your own pace. Our expert local leaders will share with you the archaeological and historical secrets of the ancient sites of Petra, Luxor, and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Whether it’s haggling in Cairo’s bustling bazaars or snapping a desert sunset, Egypt and Jordan will be etched into your memory like a hieroglyph.

Attractions highlight

Giza pyramids complex.

The Egyptian pyramids are historically important buildings, thanks to their sophisticated design, in addition to the hieroglyphic writings and distinctive antiques found in them.

The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is hard to miss on any tour of Cairo. Opening in 1902, it was purpose-built to house the antiquities of Ancient Egypt.

Saqqara Step Pyramid

Djoser’s Step Pyramid at Saqqara is one of the most important archeological sites in all of Egypt. this structure is vital to archeologists’ understanding of the development of pyramid construction.

Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Khan El Khalili is located 12 km from downtown- Cairo. Khan El Khalili market is situated at one corner of a triangle of markets that go south to Bab Zuwayla and west to Azbakiyyah.

Discover the beautiful City of Petra, wonder of the world, and Jordan's most valuable treasure. Know more about the Rose City and its hidden treasures.

Al Siq Canyon

The Siq of Petra is the entrance to the city of Petra is through the Siq, a narrow gorge, over 1km in length, which is flanked on either side by soaring, 80m high cliffs. Know More!

The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea in Jordan, world's most amazing place; is over 400m (1,312 ft.) below sea level. The lowest point on the face of the earth, this vast stretch of water receives a number of incoming rivers, including the River Jordan.

Orthodox Basilica of Saint George

St George's Church, Madaba: Decorated with sumptuous interiors, elegant colonnades, and various mosaics. Know More!

Day 1: Arrive Amman

Enjoy our Jordan and Egypt Tours. Your tour manager will meet and assist you upon your arrival at Amman International Airport. After that, you will be transferred to your hotel in Amman by a private air-conditioned vehicle for check-in. Upon arrival at the hotel he will do your check in and give you detailed information concerning your tomorrow’s trip. Overnight in Amman.

Day 2: Amman Sightseeing

Breakfast at hotel, then drive to the town of Madaba, where you find the famous mosaic 4th century map of Palestine in St. George’s church. After that continue to Mt. Nebo, the place where Prophet Moses gazed at the promised land before he died and alleged to be his burial place. You visit an old monastery; overlook the Jordan Valley, Dead Sea and parts of the Holy Land. Afterward we drive to the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea, where you have leisure time and the chance to float on water. Overnight Amman hotel.

Meals Included

Day 3: petra tour.

On this day of your Jordan and Egypt Travel Package, After breakfast drive for 2.5 hours to the red rose city Petra, the biggest attraction of Jordan. Petra was first established around the 6th century B.C. by the Nabataean Arabs, a nomadic tribe who settled in the area and founded a commercial empire. Pass the canyon, the so called Siq, to see the most beautiful monument: the Treasury. Continue via the Street of Facades to the Royal Tombs and Pharaoh's Castle. Drive back to Amman for overnight.

Day 4: Depart Amman - Fly to Cairo

Breakfast, according to flight schedule transfer to Queen Alia International Airport for your flight to Cairo where you will be met and assisted then transfer to your hotel and overnight in Cairo.

Day 5: Pyramids Tour

Breakfast at your hotel in Cairo and then met by your personal guide who will accompany you to Giza Plateau to visit the Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chefren and Mykerinus - Famous Sphinx and Valley temple facing the great statue. Additional visit to the Solar Boat in front of Cheops Pyramid ( extra ticket on spot ) Lunch included during the tour and then proceed to Sakkara area to visit Sakkara Complex and first pyramid ever built ( Djoser Pyramid ). Overnight in Cairo.

Day 6: Cairo Sightseeing

On this day of your Jordan and Egypt Travel Package, Breakfast at the hotel and then you will be escorted by your private guide to visit: Egyptian Museum where you will see many fascinating artifacts. Lunch through-out the tour at local restaurant. Continue to Coptic Cairo to visit the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue. Combining fascinating history with shopping in a lively Khan El Khalili Bazaar, this dates back to 1382. Back to hotel and overnight in Cairo.

Day 7: Free day in Cairo

Today you have the choice of having a free day in Cairo or join our most valuable optional tour to the second capital of Egypt, Alexandria; visiting one of the most important defensive strongholds, not only in Egypt, but also along the Mediterranean Sea coast, Qaitbay Citadel, built in the 15th century by Sultan Qaitbay on the spot where Alexandria's ancient lighthouse once stood, then move on to the new and much acclaimed Alexandria Library. Also visit the Roman cemetery cut out of the rock, the Catacombs. Return to your hotel in Cairo.

Day 8: Final Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Cairo International Airport for final departure.

What's Included

• Accommodation in Amman for 3 nights including breakfast
• Accommodation in Cairo for 4 nights including breakfast
• All transfers by a private air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking assistant

7 breakfasts, 2 lunches

• Meet and greet service upon arrival and departure
• Entrance fees to all sites as mentioned in the itinerary
• Private English speaking Egyptologist guide during your tours in Cairo
• All transfers in by a private new vehicle with English speaking assistant in Jordan.
• Local English speaking spot guide in Petra (about 2-3 hrs).
• English speaking driver in the Dead Sea, Madaba, and Nebo
• Short horse ride in Petra (included in ticket)
• Service charges and taxes

Not Included

• International airfare
• Entry visa to Jordan and Egypt
• Flight Amman / Cairo
• Personal expenses

May to Sep:

Per person in triple room, per person in double room, per person in single room, oct to april:.

Prices Tour price currency is set to USD but you can pay in Euro or British pound. The prices quoted per person per trip and prices are always updated to ensure you receive the lowest price possible. Once your tour is confirmed we guarantee the price will not be changed.

Children Policy

• Infants up to 5.99 years old are free of charge for the tour package sharing parent’s accommodations.
• Children 6 to 11.99 years old sharing parents accommodations with an extra bed is half the price of an adult rate.
• Children 12 years old and above are considered adults, full rates apply.
• If your sightseeing tours include domestic flights or/and ferry boat ticket, an extra supplement for your child may apply.

Essential trip information

“Want an in-depth insight into our trips? Essential Trip Information provides detailed information about all of that is linked to our itineraries, visa info, what is mainly included & excluded, the most important info regarding your transfers & accommodation with us, and almost everything you need to know about the amazing adventures we arrange”.

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14-Day Tour of Egypt, Jordan and Turkey

$ 3,860.00   per person

Embark on a journey beginning in the heart of Egypt, Cairo, and conclude in the stunning city of Istanbul! With a backdrop of lore and myth, panoramic landscapes, a welcoming culture, and bustling cities craving exploration, Egypt, Jordan, and Turkey represent some of the most captivating locales across the globe. This expedition will serve as a fascinating voyage into the annals of history!

Obtain your tour price in USD by selecting tour dates and specifics below:

Please Pick a Tour start Date

• Detailed Itinerary
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• Reviews (3)

Day 1: Arrive in Cairo, Airport Transfer and Free Day

Arrive any day in Cairo. Upon your arrival in Cairo, you will be met with our company representative in the arrivals area of the airport who will be holding a signboard with your name on it. After meet and greet, you will be transferred from the airport to your hotel in Cairo. Rest of the day will be at leisure.

• Overnight in Cairo
• Included Meal(s): No meals are included on this day
• Accommodation: Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel and Spa OR Mercure Cairo Le Sphinx Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 2: Pyramid – Sphinx – Egyptian Museum – Old and New Cairo – Coptic Cairo – Synagogue of Ben Ezra

After breakfast at the hotel meet your Egyptologist guide to begin the full-day Cairo tour, and visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the three Pyramids of Giza . The oldest and largest of the three is the Cheops Pyramid built 3rd dynasty about 2690 B.C. Next is the Pyramids of Chefren and visit the majestic Great Sphinx , which is the largest single block sculpture located at the foot of the grand Pyramid Chefren. In the area of the Pyramids making for a great picture take an opportunity to ride a camel with the Pyramids in the background. Continue to visit the famous Egyptian Museum , here we shall provide you with a brief, but colorful insight into the five thousand years of history of Egypt’s fascinating land. Afterwards we visit Old Cairo and the City’s cultural landmarks that span three millenniums of Egyptian history. We begin with Coptic Church, where you will visit the Hanging Church , dating to the late 4th and early 5th century. This basilica was named “Al-Mu’allaqah” because it was built atop the south gate of the Babylon Fortress. Continue to the Church of St. Sergius , a 5th-century Coptic Church . This basilica is built on the cave in which the Holy Family stayed and is regarded by visitors as a source of blessing. As we stroll along, we’ll come to the recently restored Synagogue of Ben Ezra – the oldest Jewish synagogue in Egypt built in 882 AC. Next, we’ll explore the spices and silks in the medieval bazaar of Khan el-Khalili , one of the biggest bazaars in the Middle East and North Africa’s most famous bazaar. Lunch will be served during the tour at a local restaurant. Return to your hotel in Cairo.

• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3: Luxor – Valley of the Kings – Karnak and Luxor Temple

After breakfast, you will transfer to the Cairo airport for your flight to  Luxor, Egypt , the Capital of Upper Egypt, known in ancient times as Thebes . In the morning, you will visit the west bank of the Nile River and see the  Valley of the Kings , the  Valley of the Queens , some of the Tombs of the Pharaohs, and the Tomb of  Queen Hatshepsut .  You will also stop by what is called “ Pit Tomb 33 ” where the mummies and papyrus were found that became part of the Book of Abraham. In the afternoon, you will visit the east bank of the Nile River and the spectacular  Temple of Karnak . In the evening, you will fly back to Cairo.

Day 4: Fly from Cairo to Amman – (Flight not included) – Private drive to Petra

Private transfer from your hotel to Cairo airport and the flight from Cairo to Amman. Upon arrival at the Jordan International Airport, our representative meets you with signage in front of the immigration at Amman Airport. Get to know your friendly, English-speaking chauffeur. For around 2.5 hours he drives you safely along the Desert Highway to Petra. Check-in hotel, the remainder of the day free to rest.

Note:  You will have to purchase your own international flight ticket(s); international flight ticket(s) are not included in the cost of this package tour and will not be provided by us.

• Overnight in Petra
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: 4-star Petra Moon Hotel OR Petra Boutique Hotel OR Petra Guest House or similar (Standard quality)

Day 5: Petra Tour – Wadi Rum Camp

Today visit the highlight of Jordan, the red rose city of Petra! You are able to start as early as 06:00, but early birds, don’t forget to ask the hotel for a breakfast box the day before. Meet your local guide and pass the narrow canyon, the so called Siq, with its colourful sandstone. At the end, you will be rewarded with a view of the most beautiful monument: the Treasury. Continue via the Street of Facades to the Royal Tombs and Pharaoh’s Castle. After around 2 hours the guide says farewell to you at the restaurant area. You have free time to explore Petra on your own. The young at heart for instance have the chance to climb the 800 stairs to the 45 meters high Monastery El Deir. Return to the main gate. In the afternoon 1.5 hours transfer to Wadi Rum desert. Dinner and overnight at a campsite like Rum Stars or Sun City.

• Overnight in Wadi Rum
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Accommodation: Rum Stars Camp OR Sun City Camp or similar

Day 6: Wadi Rum 3 hours Jeep ride – Private transfer from Wadi Rum to Dead Sea

Embark a 4×4 and with your Bedouin driver uncover more of the vast desert. The rugged scenery, the changing colours of sands and mountains, and the serene atmosphere will make you understand why Wadi Rum is one of the most impressive desert landscapes in the world. The setting had been used for Hollywood movies. You see canyons, red sand dunes, Nabatean rock inscriptions, and a natural rock bridge formed over centuries. Journey 4 hours to your hotel at the Dead Sea beach. Chance to do the floating experience and try the dark mud on the shores promising positive effects for your skin. Check into your hotel and the rest of the day is free.

• Overnight in Dead Sea
• Accommodation: Holiday Inn Resort OR Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa or similar (Standard quality)

Day 7: Fly from Amman to Istanbul – Flight not included

After breakfast, you will proceed to Amman International Airport to board your international flight to Istanbul . Upon arrival, you will be met by our representative and will be transferred to your Istanbul hotel for check-in. The rest of the day will be free.

Note: You will have to purchase your own international flight ticket(s); international flight ticket(s) are not included in the cost of this package tour and will not be provided by us.

• Overnight in Istanbul
• Accommodation: Muyan Suites OR Deluxe Golden Horn Hotel OR Ayasultan Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 8: Istanbul Byzantine and Ottoman Relics Tour

After breakfast at approximately 8:30 am, you will be picked up from your hotel to begin the full-day tour. Today on the tour you will visit  Hagia Sophia Museum, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome , Grand Bazaar,  and  Topkapi Palace . Lunch will be at a local restaurant. After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Day 9: Fly to Denizli from Istanbul – Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour – Kusadasi

You will be picked up from your hotel in Istanbul around 4:30 am and will be transferred to the domestic airport for your flight from Istanbul to Denizli between 6:00 – 7:30 am. Upon arrival at Denizli Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to Pamukkale . In Pamukkale, you will meet your professional tour guide to begin your full-day tour of Pamukkale & Hierapolis. Around 10:00 you will visit the first visit is to Hierapolis Antique City , where you will see the  Temple of Apollo ,  Martyrium , and some other ruins. Then see  Pamukkale (Cotton Castle) , which is made of sedimentary rock deposited by water from the hot springs. You have the chance to walk on the terraces. At the end of the tour around approximately 4:00 pm, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kusadasi for check-in.

• Overnight in Kusadasi
• Accommodation: Derici Hotel OR Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel OR Efe Boutique Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 10: Ephesus Tour – Fly to Cappadocia

After breakfast at the hotel around 8:30 am, you will be picked up and met by your tour guide to begin your full-day tour of Ephesus .

Your tour guide will brief you on the day’s activities. You will first visit the  Temple of Artemis  which was once one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. Next, you will visit the world famous ancient the  Greco-Roman City of Ephesus , the most well-preserved example in the world. After visiting this impressive site, you will have a break for lunch. After lunch, you will visit the  House of the Virgin Mary , where it is believed she spent her last days. This is a holy place for both Christians and Muslims. Afterwards, you will visit the  Isabey Mosque .

Next, you will be taken to the  Sirince Village;  which is an old Greek village and is well-know for its quaint beauty and wine tasting and production. Here you will have one hour free to explore on your own without a guide the different foods and wines of the area and visit various small traditional village shops.

After the tour,  you will be transferred to Izmir Airport for your flight to Kayseri or Nevsehir through Istanbul. Upon your arrival at the Kayseri or Nevsehir airport, a representative will be present holding your name sign to pick you up and transfer you to your hotel.

• Overnight in Cappadocia
• Accommodation: Holiday Cave Hotel OR Heaven Cave House OR Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 11: North Cappadocia Tour

For an additional option, you can book an early morning   hot air balloon ride   and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the valleys. Please be aware that this activity comes at an extra cost.

After Breakfast at the hotel, depart from the hotel around 9:30 am for a full-day tour of North Cappadocia. Begin with a stop to take photos at Uc Guzeller which are famed fairy chimneys in Cappadocia.

Next, visit  Devrent Valley has various types of fairy chimneys. Among these are those with caps, cones, mushroom-like forms pillars, and sharp rocks. We will take a walk through this amazing valley.

Then, you will visit  Pasabaglari   (Monk’s Valley)  where you will see many fairy chimneys with multiple stems and caps can be found here, this style is unique to this area. A chapel dedicated to St. Simeon and a hermit’s shelter is built into one such fairy chimney with three heads. After visiting Pasabag, we will drive to  Avanos which is known for its pottery, a craft dating back to the Hittite period. The red clay which is worked by local craftsmen comes from the residue in the Kizilirmak river. The Kizilirmak, which divides Avanos into two, is Anatolia’s longest river.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Continue to Zelve Open Air Museum in Cappadocia. The museum features a series of carved caves and ancient churches, providing a glimpse into the region’s monastic history. End your tour with a stop to take photos in  Uchisar Castle  and  Esentepe . After the trip is completed, we will transfer you back to your hotel around 4:00 pm.

Day 12: South Cappadocia Tour – Fly back to Istanbul

After breakfast at the hotel around 9:30 am you will be picked up and met by your tour guide to begin your full-day tour of South Cappadocia.

Your tour guide will brief you on the day’s activities. Your tour will begin with a visit to the  Red Valley  where you will be able to explore the famous rock-cut churches and hike approximately 5 km through the Güllüdere (Rose) Valley.

Next you will visit  Çavusin village which is famous for its houses and churches of Christian Clergymen. We will take a break for lunch around noon. After lunch, you will drive to the  Pigeon Valley . In the afternoon you will visit the  Kaymakli Underground City  or  Ozkonak Underground City  where early Christians lived.

At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to Kayseri or Nevsehir airport for your late evening return flight to Istanbul. Upon your arrival in Istanbul, you will be met at the airport and transferred from the airport to your hotel.

Day 13: Bosphorus Cruise

After breakfast at around 8:30 am, you will join the Half-day Morning Bosphorus Cruise. At the start of this tour, you will enjoy a drive to the pier in Eminonu for a short visit to the  historical Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar)  Following this, you will join a shared boat tour and cruise along the Bosphorus which is a narrow strait between the continents of Europe and Asia connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. You will be able to view the  Ottoman palaces, the Bosphorus Bridge, citadels, centuries-old mansions, and the European and Asian shorelines while onboard the boat. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped back at your hotel around 12:30 noon and the rest of the day is free.

Day 14: Departure from Istanbul – End of Tour Service

After breakfast, you will check out from your hotel in Istanbul (hotel check-out is before 12:00 noon) and will then be transferred to the Istanbul International Airport according to your flight details. This will be the end of our tour and services.

INCLUDED in the Tour Price:

• Arrival, departure airport transfers and ground transportation.
• Domestic flight tickets from Istanbul to Denizli and Izmir to Cappadocia and Cappadocia to Istanbul only.
• 3 nights in Cairo at a 4-star hotel including breakfast.
• 1 night in Petra at a 4-star hotel including breakfast.
• 1 night in Wadi Rum at a Desert Camp including breakfast.
• 1 night in Dead Sea at a 4-star hotel including breakfast.
• 4 nights in Istanbul at Special Class or 4-star hotels including breakfast.
• 1 night in Kusadasi at a 4-star hotel including breakfast.
• 2 nights in Cappadocia at a cave hotel including breakfast.
• English-speaking local guide during Egypt and Turkey tours.
• English-speaking local guide in Petra for 2.5 hours.
• Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner).
• Entrance fees are mentioned by the itinerary.
• Local taxes and service charges.

NOT INCLUDED:

• International Flight Tickets.
• Flight tickets from Cairo to Amman and Amman to Istanbul.
• Entry visas to Egypt, Jordan, and Turkey.
• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride.
• Optional tours mentioned in the program, they will be provided at an additional cost.
• Services not mentioned in the program.
• Drinks with meals.
• Travel insurance (recommended).

IMPORTANT INFO:

• Please note that Egypt and Jordan tours are private, however Turkey tours are group tours.
• Please be advised that the order /sequence in which the daily tours occur within the above day-by-day package tour itinerary can be subject to change depending on the availability of domestic flight tickets per the itinerary, opening/closing of various historical sites, etc.
• For 2 travelers: 1 Double/Twin Room Accommodation.
• For 3 travelers: 1 Triple Room Accommodation.
• For 4 travelers: 2 Double/Twin Rooms Accommodation.
• For 5 travelers: 1 Double/Twin Room and 1 Triple Room Accommodation.
• Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesday, it will be replaced with the  Basilica Cistern  (Yerebatan Sarnici).
• Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday.

Inquire About this Trip

Please fill out the information below and we will be in touch shortly with your personalized quote.

3 reviews for 14-Day Tour of Egypt, Jordan and Turkey

Lancy A. – June 5, 2022

My wife and I just returned from Egypt, Jordan and Turkey. We used One Nation Travel and had a flawless trip. I had also used this company last year for our Thailand trip. I will definitely be using One Nation Travel again.

Naveed K. – June 13, 2022

We used Onenationtravel.com to organize our trip to Egypt, Jordan and Turkey. It was the best decision we made. They suggested and booked excellent hotels and tours that were within our budget. They were prompt at responding to any questions or concerns. Our transportation was always on time and the drivers were very friendly. I will be booking with one nation travel agency again for my next trip in the near future.

Varadaraja P. – July 3, 2022

Great tour! The hotels, tour buses, and guides were excellent. Everything was well laid out and well timed. My wife and I had a great experience in Egypt, Jordan and Turkey!

onenationtravel – July 13, 2022

Hi Varadaraja,

Thank you for taking the time to review your experience with One Nation Travel. We are so happy to hear that you had a wonderful time in Jordan and enjoyed all of the services that our company offers. The team at One Nation Travel is always striving to provide customers with the best experience possible, and we appreciate hearing about your positive experience. If there is anything we can do better during your next trip, please let us know!

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17 Day Jordan and Egypt Tour with Flights

Cairo - Luxor - Kom-Ombo - Aswan - Hurghada - Amman - Wadi Rum - Petra

International flights from Australia included 

Enjoy 3 nights aboard a 5-star Nile Cruise 

Spend a night in a Bedouin Camp in Wadi Rum!

Book now with only 50% deposit

2020 departure dates available

From $5,199 Typically $5,999 pp twin share

Description.

Hop on this incredible 17-day tour of Jordan & Egypt and visit the High Dam of Aswan and the Karnak temple complex, as well as a foray to the famous Valley of the Kings. Enjoy 3 nights aboard a 5-star Nile Cruise before relaxing at an all-inclusive Red Sea resort. You'll also have the opportunity to head into the desert on a guided 4x4 trip and overnight under the stars at Wadi Rum in a Bedouin Camp. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience of uncovering the mysteries of the Red Rose City of Petra, as you step into the healing waters of the Dead Sea, follow in the footsteps of passionate local guides in Cairo and Amman, and so much more!

Itinerary Downloadable Itinerary

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day 11 Day 12 Day 13 Day 14 Day 15 Day 16 Day 17

Australia Cairo

Your amazing journey begins with your flight to Egypt!

Meals included: inflight only

Welcome to Cairo! Make your way to your hotel where you will find your local Egyptologist tour guide who will accompany you throughout your trip. Take part in the tour briefing to learn what awaits you. Head to your room for a good night's sleep before your adventure commences in the morning!

Accommodation: Oasis Hotel or similar, Cairo

Giza Pyramids, Sphinx and Sakkara

Fuel up for your first day of iconic Egyptian experiences! Follow your guide to the mesmerising Giza pyramid complex and revel in some of the country's most famous attractions. See the Great Pyramids and Sphinx with your own ease. Discover the majesty of the Zoser step pyramid and Pharaonic tombs. Spend the evening relaxing in your Cairo hotel.

Meals included: breakfast

Cairo Aswan Nile Cruise

Your included flight arrives in Aswan and then you make your way to the water to board the Nile cruise ship. Freshen up and get ready to be astounded by the sight of the High Dam of Aswan. Learn more about the history of the construction of the dam, and the creation of Lake Nasser, which necessitated the relocation of thousands of citizens and very important monuments. This includes Abu Simbel, which is on the itinerary tomorrow. Continue onwards to Agilkia Island to explore the Temple of Isis at Philae.

Accommodation: 5-star Nile Cruise

Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Nile Cruise - Kom Ombo

Enjoy the amazing views as we continue to navigate the Nile on our 5-star cruise ship. Opt-in on an excursion to the Abu Simbel complex - to massive temples at the southernmost tip of ancient Egypt’s borders. These Nubian Monuments have been around since the 1200s when it was carved from the mountainside! Stopover at the Temple of Kom-Ombo this afternoon to learn more about the crocodile god Sobek, and the falcon god Haroeris. Overnight on the cruise ship as we make our way to Luxor.

Nile Cruise - Luxor and Karnak Temple

Disembark along the East Bank of Luxor and take a tour of this exciting destination. Experience the majesty of the Karnak temple complex in person - these grand monuments are remnants of ancient Thebes. Discover the historic Luxor temple, where you'll wander down the mesmerising Avenue of Sphinxes. Overnight at your hotel in Luxor and get ready for another full day of Egyptian adventuring.

Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut and Hurghada

Lovers of history, assemble! Enjoy breakfast and head for the world-famous Valley of the Kings to explore the tombs of King Tutankhamen and other New Kingdom pharaohs. Discover the Temple of Hatshepsut and visit the striking Colossi of Memnon. Board our air-conditioned bus to Hurghada on the Red Sea and overnight at your hotel after enjoying an included dinner.

Accommodation: Samara Bay Resort or similar, Hurghada

Meals included: breakfast and dinner

Make the most of your free day Hurghada. Enjoy one of the many activities on offer at the resort. Explore the beach, keep cool in the pool, or simply relax. Alternatively, you can also go snorkelling or scuba diving along the amazing coral reefs. Breakfast, dinner and lunch are included today.

The Red Sea - Hurghada

Enjoy another free day full of fun and relaxation in Hurghada today! Make the most of the range of activities on offer at the resort. Dive deep and experience ocean life on a scuba diving or snorkelling trip. Alternatively, take it easy - soak up the sun next to the pool or on the beach. Indulge in delicious food and drinks as breakfast, lunch and dinner are all included again today. Spend your last evening on the Red Sea coastline getting some rest and relaxation.

Hurghada  Cairo

It’s time to travel to Cairo, Egypt’s sprawling capital city. Take a trip through history when you join an outing to the Egyptian Museum. Get to know more about Egypt’s fascinating history, which stretches back thousands of years and catch a glimpse of the treasures found in King Tutankhamun’s tomb! Afterwards, we pay a visit to the Cairo Bazaar, Khan El Khalili. Located in Cairo’s historic centre, this colourful bazaar is filled with an eclectic mix of things to eat, see and buy!

Meals included: breakfast 

Spend a free day exploring the bustling city of Cairo at your leisure! Today, you can also choose to join a trip to Alexandria on the Mediterranean Coast. Named after its founder, Alexander the Great, Alexandria is a historic seaside city. Visit the fortress, catacombs, and souks and experience relics from bygone days. See the beautiful beaches and take in the views along the seafront. Make a stop at one of the inviting cafes and restaurants found along the seafront corniche. Return to Cairo where we will be spending the night.

Cairo, Amman and Wadi Rum

Get ready for a desert adventure as we make our way to Wadi Rum! Start the day with breakfast before we make our way to Cairo Airport to catch a flight to Amman in Jordan. Once we land in Amman, we will head to Wadi Rum and see the amazing desert landscapes. After checking in at our desert camp where we will be spending the night, we will explore the area on a two-hour 4x4 Jeep safari! After a day filled with desert-adventure, enjoy an authentic Jordanian dinner by the campfire. Finish your day off with some spectacular stargazing.

Accommodation: Bait Ali Camp or similar, Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum and Petra

Hop aboard - we're off on a full-day trip to the gorgeous Rose City of Petra. Explore this ancient UNESCO site on horseback and by foot. Behold the world-renowned Treasury, which was carved from the limestone rockface. Learn more about this fascinating city and see all the major attractions, including the majestic Amphitheater.

Accommodation: La Maison Hotel or similar, Petra

The Dead Sea, Kerak and Amman

Board the coach to head for the Dead Sea as we leave Petra behind. Experience first hand what it feels like to float in the dense, salty water that is purported to have healing properties. Pay a visit to the impressive Kerak Castle, a relic from the 1100s. Make your way to Amman and book in at the hotel this evening.

Accommodation: Meneur Hotel or similar, Amman

Join in on a tour of the city of Amman after breakfast. Follow your guide to some of the best-loved sights in the city, including the Roman Temple of Hercules, the 8th-century Umayyad Palace complex, and more. Overnight at the Amman hotel and get ready to head home in the morning.

Amman Australia

As your Egypt and Jordan adventure comes to an end, make your own way to the airport for your flight home.

Meals included: breakfast and inflight

Arrive home today!

Inclusions & Exclusions

• Return economy class airfare from Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane*
• International flights with Etihad, Qantas or Oman Air (subject to availability)
• One way economy class airfare from Cairo to El Sheikh 
• Airport transfers
• 10 nights hotel accommodation on twin share basis
• 1 night in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum 
• 3 nights on a 5-star Nile Cruise with a sundeck, swimming pool and bar. Stay in a twin-share cabin with private ensuite facilities
• 1 night on an overnight bus to Hurghada 
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary: 13 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 6 dinners
• Modern air-conditioned private minibus or coach transport

Accommodation

Cairo - Oasis Hotel or similar 

Hurghada - Samara Bay Resort or similar

Wadi Rum - Bait Ali Camp or similar 

Petra - La Maison Hotel or similar 

Amman - Meneur Hotel or similar 

Nile Cruise - 5-star Cruise Ship

Keen to depart from any other city?

Call us on 1300 350 263 to speak with our Travel Specialists or email us at [email protected] for a quote.

Start Point

Cairo Airport

Cairo, Egypt

any time on Day 1

Oasis Hotel

Alexandria Desert Road, 12556, Egypt

from 14:00 hrs on Day 1

Amman Hotel

To Be Confirmed

from 10:00 hrs

• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
• Meals & drinks not mentioned
• Any additional requests
• Tips compulsory at 550 EGP (in Egypt) and $40 USD (in Jordan) per person. Collected at the beginning of the tour
• Monument entrance fees as listed below

The following entrance fees are compulsory & to be paid on-tour (Approx AUD $150 per person) 

200 EGP Giza Pyramids & the Sphinx 180 EGP Sakara Pyramid 230 EGP Egyptian Museum 180 EGP Philae Temple 140 EGP Kom Ombo 200 EGP Karnak Temple 160 EGP Luxor Temple 245 EGP Valley of the Kings 140 EGP Hatchepsut Temple Free: Colossi of Memnon

We recommend purchasing a Jordanian pass to grant access to all sights - https://www.jordanpass.jo/

3 USD, Byzantine Mosaics 71 USD, Petra 10 USD, Dead Sea 10 USD, Wadi Rum jeep safari 3 USD, Mount Nebo

Child Policy

No child discounts apply. A full-priced voucher must be purchased for all children travelling. The minimum age limit for children is 10 years old. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.

Single Supplement

Looking to avoid the single supplement? We can match you with another solo traveller of the same gender. If we're unable to match you with another traveller, you will be booked in for a single room. Please send in an inquiry at [email protected] or call us on 1300 350 263. If you're interested in booking a single room for the tour, the additional supplement is $1000. 

Egypt & Jordan 2024 Discovery with Wadi Rum Desert Camp & Nile River Cruise

Cairo, Nile River Valley, Luxor, Aswan, Amman, Dead Sea, Al-Karak, Petra, Madaba Governorate, Wadi R... +1 more

Sift through the sands of ancient Egypt and wade through the waters of historic Jordan on this captivating small-group tour. Witness the majesty of the pharaohs and uncover their sprawling kingdom with stays at the stately Fairmont Nile City and a decadent Nile River cruise aboard the MS Nile Style (or similar). Stand in the shadow of the Great Pyramid of Giza, the last remaining Ancient Wonder of the World, and walk through the astounding Valley of the Kings, home to countless pharaohs’ tombs. Brush up on historic artefacts with your expert Egyptologist guide and unearth the treasures of Tutankhamun at the exceptional, brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum. Experience sunrise and sunset over idyllic waters and sands that have seen centuries of human history.

In Jordan, stay on the edge of the magnificent Dead Sea, where the vibrant blue, buoyant water awaits. Discover an ancient citadel in Amman – the White City of Jordan – and lose yourself among the elegant pink sandstone structures of Petra – one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Experience the desert by starlight at a remote camp in Wadi Rum and let the silence carry your thoughts across the sweeping sands. Travel in absolute ease with private airport transfers, internal flights and an air-conditioned coach to take you between Egypt and Jordan’s most renowned destinations. Then, spend your final night in comfort, reflecting on the bucketlist adventure you've just completed while relaxing in your room at the grand Sheraton Amman Al Nabil Hotel.

Ahlan wa sahlan! The grandeur and glory of Egypt await as you arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI). Steeped in ancient mystery and buzzing with modern vibrancy, cosmopolitan Cairo is a city alive with culture. Fed by the lifeline of the glittering Nile, Egypt’s capital is known as the ‘City of a Thousand Minarets’ thanks to its spectacular collection of preserved Islamic Caliphate architecture.

Take your private transfer to the stately Fairmont Nile City, situated on the banks of the Nile, with sweeping views all the way to the distant pyramids. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure before an elegant set welcome dinner with your touring party, including a complimentary glass of wine or beer.

Today, experience one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, with a full day dedicated to the extraordinary pyramids.

The Great Pyramids of Giza are the only present-day survivors of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, built over 4,500 years ago as giant tombs for Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. Truly monumental in scale, the largest of these ancient structures is estimated to have taken over two million blocks to complete.

Nearby rests the enigmatic Sphinx, watchful guardian of the colossal funerary monuments. About a thousand years after its construction, a young prince had a dream in which the Sphinx promised him the title of Pharaoh if he cleared the sand from the statue. See the story for yourself, carved on the famed Dream Stele set between the Sphinx's great paws.

Enjoy a lunch of traditional Egyptian cuisine at 9 Pyramids Lounge and relax in Bedouin-style seating overlooking the spectacular pyramids of Giza.

Visit the necropolis of Saqqara, where the very first pyramids were built as tombs for kings. Instead of the smooth sides featured on other pyramids, these stepped pyramids represent the pharaoh's stepladder to heaven. Discover the famous Step Pyramid of Pharaoh Djoser, the oldest known pyramid in Egypt and the world’s first freestanding stone structure.

Round out your dig through history in the legendary city of Memphis, founded almost 5,000 years ago by the Pharaoh Menes, who united Upper and Lower Egypt. Memphis became the capital of the Old Kingdom and the heart of Egypt's busy import-export activity, with traders from around the world lending it a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Return to your luxurious accommodation in Cairo for another evening spent in Egypt’s vibrant capital.

Optional activities:

• Pyramid camel ride (A$48 per person).
• Cairo sound and light show (A$94 per person).

After a delicious buffet breakfast, meet with your tour guide for a guided exploration of this storied city.

The study of ancient Egyptian language, history and architecture has obsessed archaeologists and linguists for centuries, and Egyptology has become a respected discipline across the world. Waste no time mining your guide’s expert knowledge as you head to the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza – a cutting-edge collection of archaeological gems from this historic region, housed in one of the largest museum complexes in the world. Uncover thousands of Tutankhamun’s treasured relics and piece together a complex picture of ancient Egypt in the halls of this long-awaited archival project.

Enjoy lunch in the manicured Al-Azhar Park, then continue to Al-Muizz Street in Cairo’s Old Town. Built in the 10th century BCE, this monument-lined street takes its name from the founder of Cairo himself and offers a glimpse at the city’s Islamic history. Continue to the bustling brightness of Khan el-Khalili, a renowned bazaar dating back over 1,000 years. Peruse the wares of the innumerable shopfronts, then take your transfer back to your hotel for an evening of opulent comfort.

• Cairo city tour with felucca ride (A$58 per person).
• Sufi dance show (A$96 per person).

Gather your energy with a delicious breakfast before being transferred to Cairo Airport (CAI) for your included flight to Luxor (LXR), formerly known as Thebes. Often described as the world’s greatest open-air museum, Luxor is a true archaeological wonderland.

On arrival, visit the expansive Karnak Temple Complex and explore the great Temple of Amun-Re. Walk the remnants of much-fabled ancient Thebes through the Avenue of Sphinxes, then check in for your decadent Nile River cruise and savour a refreshing lunch aboard.

Later, disembark once more for a tour of the remarkable Luxor Temple, near-perfectly preserved and dramatically lit against the desert night. As evening falls, retire to your cabin or recline beneath the stars on deck as you drift lazily along the Nile.

• Luxor city tour by horse carriage (A$68 per person).
• Karnak Temple sound and light show (A$87 per person).

Today, set out to explore the West Bank of Luxor and uncover the mysterious Valley of the Kings. Witness the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI, as well as the beautifully decorated tomb of Seti I. Majestic and meticulously constructed, the tombs of the pharaohs have fascinated archaeologists for over a hundred years, and remain an integral part of Egypt’s millennia-old history.

Be drawn to the mesmerising Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, set low against the surrounding cliffs. Later, pass the famed Colossi of Memnon, built to depict King Amenhotep III in a resting position and known for the mournful sounds they’re said to make at dawn.

Back aboard, indulge in a well-earned lunch as you sail onward to new wonders.

• Sunrise hot air balloon ride (A$269 per person).

After breakfast, spend the morning exploring Egypt’s largest and best-preserved Pharaonic temple – the Temple of Horus at Edfu. Built to venerate ancient Horus, god of the Sun – later identified by the Greeks as Apollo – the site is a breathtaking glimpse into Hellenistic Egypt.

Continue to the ancient agricultural settlement of Kom Ombo. Take your time strolling through the charming village, positioned on a bend in the river where sacred crocodiles once basked in the sun. Central to Kom Ombo is the unique double temple, dedicated to both Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility, and Haroeris, the falcon god of the sky. Wonder at the detailed inscriptions throughout the remains, then return to your vessel to spend the rest of the evening at leisure.

Following breakfast aboard, set out to explore fantastical Aswan. Witness the enormity of the Aswan High Dam, constructed with support from UNESCO to help protect the ancient monuments in danger of flooding. Visit the island of Agilika for a glimpse at its countless historic sites, painstakingly relocated during the construction of the nearby dam.

Survey the gargantuan Unfinished Obelisk and learn of its abandoned fate, then meander through the majestic Philae Temple Complex to study the walls of the Temple of Isis.

Return to your elegant cruiser for a refreshing lunch, then spend the rest of your afternoon freely, perhaps choosing to join an optional tour of the many surrounding wonders.

• Aswan city tour by horse carriage (A$68 per person).
• Nubian village visit (A$96 per person).
• Philae Temple sound and light show (A$87 per person).

After one more breakfast – and the chance to join an optional trip to the jaw-dropping Abu Simbel – it’s time to take your flight back to Cairo, where you’ll transfer to your elegant hotel at the edge of the Nile.

The rest of the day is yours for the taking, whether you wish to explore Cairo’s vibrant street life or settle in for indulgent comfort at your accommodation.

• Abu Simbel trip by land (A$230 per person).
• Abu Simbel trip by air (A$615 per person).
• Egypt farewell dinner at hotel (A$154 per person).

Bid farewell to enchanting Egypt and transfer to Cairo International Airport (CAI) for your onward flight to Amman, Jordan (AMM). Populated by hypnotic desert landscapes and captivating ancient sites, Jordan owes its unique beauty to both the human and the earthly.

Warmly met and welcomed to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, you’ll be transferred directly to your elegant Dead Sea hotel.

One of the planet's most spectacular destinations, the Dead Sea is not only the lowest point on Earth – coming in at 400 metres below sea level at the surface – but it's also considered one of the world's most spiritual landscapes, filled with dramatic, natural wonders. Restorative saline waters and mineral-rich mud are certain to leave your skin feeling silky smooth.

Spend the rest of your day floating effortlessly in the buoyant blue waters of this tranquil oasis, just steps from your resort. This evening, enjoy a hearty dinner at your hotel, served with complimentary drinks.

Set off this morning for the legendary Mount Nebo, where Moses was said to have seen the promised land and later laid to rest. Continue to Madaba to see the spectacular mosaic map of this Holy Land embedded within the floor of the Greek Orthodox Church. Travel towards 12th-century Kerak Castle, strategically built atop a hill along the King’s Highway.

Later, make your way to Petra, Jordan’s magnificent ancient city, where you’ll check into your hotel for the evening.

Wake to a satisfying breakfast, then strike out to explore the ‘Rose City' of Petra with your expert guide.

Bear witness to the enormous Djinn Blocks and the remains of the Obelisk Tomb, then step up to the Siq – the entrance to this ancient Nabatean city. Follow your guide as you excavate history on your tour of this incredible collection of tombs and temples, carved into pink sandstone walls dating to 300 BCE. Discover one of the Seven Wonders of the World as you study the intricately carved facade of the Treasury, the grand Roman Theatre and the Colonnade Street, and the awe-inspiring Grand Temple and Qasr al-Bint, each cut directly from the rock face.

Take your time wandering these peaceful avenues, perhaps ascending to the remote monastery for a truly jaw-dropping view. Later, retire to your conveniently located accommodation for the evening.

Start your day with a trip to Siq al-Barid or ‘Little Petra’. The ‘cold canyon’ is so named for its position, preventing most sunlight from entering between the cliffs. Discover ancient temples, painted houses and the magnificent Triclinium.

Travel to Wadi Rum and watch as the scenery changes from craggy hills to open desert, dotted with rocky outcrops. Wadi Rum’s landscape is truly otherworldly, with endless sands stretching toward a hazy horizon.

Check in to your spectacular premium camp in the heart of the desert, then join your Bedouin hosts for a 4WD excursion through this otherworldly land.

Tonight, savour a moment of unparalleled peace as you tuck into an aromatic feast under countless glittering stars.

• Desert stargazing experience (A$58 per person).

Wake early and return to thriving Amman, the capital of Jordan and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Join your guide on a tour of the ancient Amman Citadel, with its monumental Temple of Hercules and Umayyad Palace. Visit the fascinating Jordan Archaeological Museum for a closer look at Jordan’s antique history, then take in panoramic views from the top of one of Amman’s seven jabals (hills). Make your way back down to the colossal Roman Theatre, home to the fascinating artefacts of the Folklore Museum, including traditional costumes and musical instruments.

This evening, savour a mouthwatering farewell dinner at Logmeh al Kanoun, where the specialty is fragrant Lebanese cuisine. Take the opportunity to reminisce on your adventure with your fellow travellers.

• Wadi Rum hot air balloon ride (A$384 per person).

Your epic adventure finishes after one last breakfast. Bid farewell to the lively streets of Amman as you take your private transfer to Queen Alia International Airport (AMM).

The Nile, a lifeline coursing through sun-kissed Egypt, is among the world's longest rivers. During five days gliding along its shimmering surface, you’ll uncover ancient marvels from the Valley of the Kings to the Pyramids of Giza. Behold the resplendent Luxor Temple, glowing against desert nights, and explore Luxor's West Bank where the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI hold timeless allure. The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, nestled against cliffs, and the evocative Colossi of Memnon beckon. Unveil Aswan's wonders – the Aswan High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk and the captivating Philae Temple Complex. Discover how this river overflows with abundant discoveries and rich, ancient history.

History seems to stretch back beyond the ancient time in Jordan. The vast desert dunes of Wadi Rum stretch to the horizon, offering thrilling terrain for an expansive 4WD exploration. Traverse Wadi Rum's ever-shifting topography – a transition from rugged hills to open desert adorned with rocky formations – while your Bedouin guides forge the path through this otherworldly realm. Witness Wadi Rum's ethereal beauty unfold, a realm of endless sands dissolving into a haze in the distance. As night descends, share an aromatic feast with your mysterious hosts under a blanket of countless shimmering stars.

• Thirteen nights of handpicked accommodation
• Stay in a stately Fairmont Gold Room at Fairmont Nile City
• Daily breakfast and select dining experiences
• Spend five days cruising the glittering Nile River
• Discover the Valley of the Kings, resting place of Egypt’s pharaohs
• See the Sphinx and pyramids in Giza, oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
• Take a guided tour of the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum
• Be transfixed by the intricacy of Petra’s pink sandstone ruins
• Explore vast dunes with a 4WD tour of Wadi Rum
• Experience desert glamping among the red sands of Jordan
• Internal domestic and international flights
• Expert English-speaking Egyptologist guide
• Air-conditioned transport throughout your journey
• Private roundtrip airport transfers
• Service charges, taxes and entry fees as per the itinerary

Booking Summary: After you book, please follow the instructions in your booking summary email and ensure you complete your traveller information details in full.

• Luxury Escapes asks that you please complete your Traveller Details form within 7 days of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge Team will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.
• Traveller Details are required in full to confirm all arrangements for your tour. Please complete the Traveller Details form as soon as possible in your ‘My Escapes’ account. Failure to complete the form within 60 days of departure may result in losing your spot on the tour.
• If your booking is on a non-guaranteed departure, this initial email is not your tour confirmation. Tours often require a minimum number of travellers to go ahead, so your departure may not be guaranteed immediately.
• Please note that for guaranteed departures, a minimum of two people are required to book. In the event that only one passenger has booked, you will be given the opportunity to move your departure to another date.
• Once there is an update on the status of your tour, you will be contacted via email by the Luxury Escapes’ Tours Concierge Team, and they will advise if the tour has been confirmed. Please do not book flights or make any non-flexible arrangements until you receive this update.
• Should you require assistance with your tour, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at [email protected], who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey.
• For tours that allow children, the child must share a room with an adult.
• Children are the same price as adults.

7-Day Change of ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee:

• Things don’t always work out. Our 7-day Change of Mind Guarantee is there to help. Bookings (except for cruise bookings and flights which are subject to the cancellation terms of the relevant supplier) may be cancelled with a full refund if cancellation occurs strictly within 7 days from the date of purchase and provided that the cancellation is made no less than 120 days prior to the departure date.
• All booking Deposits are non-refundable.
• After final payment is received, bookings are non-refundable unless otherwise provided for in our refund policy.
• Where Luxury Escapes Tours may allow a cancellation for credit due to exceptional circumstances (and at its sole discretion) and where a cancellation/credit is not otherwise permitted, a service fee of A$300 per person will apply.
• For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.

Date Changes

• Any changes or cancellations made within the 7-day Change of Mind Guarantee, where applicable, will not incur any fees unless otherwise restricted to the product Fine Print. Booking changes may include, but are not limited to, name changes or name corrections.
• For date changes made after the 7-day Change of Mind Guarantee, the cost of your new tour must be of equal or greater value than your current tour.
• If the request is a change from a tour of higher value to a tour of lesser value, any difference in the tour prices will not be refunded.
• Changes are not permitted once the final payment has been collected.
• Date change conditions listed above do not apply to flights or pre- and post-tour accommodation booked with us. Flight fulfilment and changes are governed by the airline(s) selected at the time of booking. For your air travel, you are bound by the terms and conditions and fare rules of the selected airline(s). For pre- and post-tour accommodation, these reservations are not directly linked to your tour and may require a separate cost to change, as stated in your ‘My Escapes.’

Itinerary Amendments & Changes

• Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure. This may be to accommodate changes in weather, public holidays, common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, and unforeseen circumstances.
• In the event of a change in itinerary (for safety reasons or due to events outside of our control) that results in cancellation or change fees in respect of flights (or other parts of your travel) we will notify you as soon as practicable.
• You will be responsible for any associated costs or will otherwise have the right to a refund (less any costs incurred or paid to third parties).
• After completing your booking, your tour cost may be subject to additional surcharges due to factors beyond the control of Luxury Escapes.
• Where the cost of delivering your selected tour materially increases between the time of purchase and delivery, we reserve the right to increase the balance due. Increases may be related to currency fluctuations, taxes, airfares, fuel surcharges, tour costs, or government changes due to health and safety restrictions. A material increase will be considered one in excess of 10% of the package price.

We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.

Accommodation for the duration of your tour is included in the Tour package.

• You can find relevant accommodation details for each day of the itinerary on the Tour offer page, or in your My Escapes.

Please note:

• Accommodation is subject to availability and may be substituted for a hotel of a similar or higher standard without notice.
• Rooms will be made available after 3pm on the day of arrival. Checkout is required by 10am. Early check-in and late checkout may be available upon request. Subject to availability. Additional fees may apply.
• Maximum room capacity (Twin Share) is two adults. Maximum room capacity (Solo) is one adult.

Pre- & Post-Tour Accommodation Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be booked to extend your stay before or after your tour by contacting our Tours Concierge Team at [email protected] .

Luxury Escapes uses a range of accommodation partners. For pre- and post-tour accommodation options where we can offer the same hotel as the start and end of your tour, your pre- and post-tour accommodation will be booked independent of your tour. If the hotel for your tour changes, this will be independent of your pre- or post-tour accommodation booking. In this instance, change fees may apply on your pre- or post-tour accommodation, if you choose to change; change fees can be found in your ‘My Escapes.’

For pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings, you may be required to check out of your room and check in again on the first or last day of your tour. You will need to confirm these details directly with hotel.

Please contact the Tours Concierge Team at [email protected] for further information.

• Return international flights
• Single supplement
• Meals/drinks not stated in the itinerary
• Optional activities/tours, personal expenses/transfers not mentioned
• Travel insurance (required)
• Tips and gratuities
• Dining inclusions do not include drinks (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice.

Baggage Restrictions

• Passengers are permitted one piece of baggage with a maximum weight of 20kg on tour.
• Passengers are permitted one additional, smaller piece of luggage with a maximum weight of 7kg.
• Arrival and departure transfers are available on the first and last day of your tour only.
• If you have booked your pre- and post-tour accommodation through Luxury Escapes, transfers may be available for select tours (not available for Trusted Partner operated tours).
• If you have booked pre- or post-tour accommodation outside of Luxury Escapes, you will forfeit your complimentary airport transfers.
• Please note ‘Private Transfers’ refers to transfers that are exclusive for your tour group and may be shared among other members of your group if arriving on the same flight or another flight arriving within a 30-minute window.
• Flight information must be provided to Luxury Escapes 60 days prior to departure in order to book transfers. Please see Destination information for airport pick-up and drop-off information.

Please Note:

• Optional excursions and activities can be organised in advance by contacting our dedicated Tours Concierge Team at [email protected] .
• Grand Egyptian Museum is a newly constructed museum, set to open in late 2023. Opening date is subject to change, and itinerary changes may be required.
• Tipping is considered mandatory in Egypt and is not covered by inclusions as part of this tour.

Travel Insurance

• Travel insurance is required on all our tours, which (at a minimum) covers medical expenses and repatriation. You may not be permitted to join the tour group if evidence of travel insurance is not provided prior to your trip. If you are unable to obtain travel insurance for whatever reason, you may be required to sign a waiver and/or provide a letter from a medical practitioner which confirms you are fit for travel. For any enquiries regarding travel insurance, please call 1300 88 99 00 or email  [email protected] .

Passports & Visas

• A visa may be required. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they’re holding a current visa for the countries they’re visiting. If the traveller is on a non-Australian passport, a valid re-entry visa may be required.
• You are responsible for visas, entry, health and other requirements, and any documents required by laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited. Luxury Escapes and/or its servants and agents are not responsible for passport and visa requirements or for any loss you sustain for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited.
• A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers (including children and infants).

Traveller Details

• Traveller Details must be completed for each individual traveller. This information can be added directly to your ’My Escapes’ account.
• Travellers must advise of any medical conditions or dietary requirements. Failure to provide such information in advance of your tour may result in an inability to cater to your requirements.
• We work with exceptional local tour providers to present uniquely crafted packages that encompass sightseeing tours and excursions. Our tour provider partners are dedicated to making every effort to accommodate specific requirements. However, it should be noted that the extent to which they can address mobility and accessibility needs may vary, depending on the nature of the sightseeing tour and activities involved. Please contact [email protected] so we can advise whether your specific needs can be accommodated.
• Special dietary requirements can be catered for in most cases, however, on occasion this may not be possible due to location, lack of availability of unique ingredients, and other extenuating circumstances. It is always advised to carry any necessary supplies with you.
• Passport details are required for all bookings. In some cases, a digital copy of your passport may be requested by Luxury Escapes to book certain elements of your trip.
• If a photo of your passport is requested, failure to provide valid photo ID will result in your booking being cancelled and all monies paid remaining non-refundable. When requested, a digital copy of your passport must be provided for each guest at least 90 days prior to your tour departure.
• Should you require any assistance with your Traveller Details, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at [email protected] .
• Relaxed: Leisurely pace with limited walking or physical demands. Opportunity for ample free time and leisure activities. Suitable for individuals seeking a laidback experience.
• Moderate: Usually more than one day in a location. Balanced mix of exploration and physical engagement. Suitable for participants with a reasonable level of fitness. Exploring cities on foot, visiting landmarks and guided excursions. Requires a moderate level of stamina and physical activity.
• Active: Activities most days. Generally, not staying in a location for two days or more. Suitable for participants with high fitness levels and a sense of adventure.

Travel Styles

Fully Guided Tour: You'll have a tour director and driver with you throughout the entire trip, from start to finish.

Partially Guided Tour: You'll have a tour driver and local guides at specific locations or portions of the trip, but not the entire time. There might be different local guides for different regions.

Self-Guided Tour: You will not have a guide for your trip. You will be provided detailed trip notes with elements, such as accommodation and transport, pre-booked for you.

Health and Fitness Acknowledgement:

• Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake the activities in this tour.
• There are limitations to the degree of accommodations that can be made if travellers are unable to partake in the included activities on this tour. Please consider suitability as additional costs could apply.
• Travellers also acknowledge and agree that neither we nor the tour provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor are we liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).

Your tour begins at Cairo International Airport (CAI) and ends at Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) with roundtrip airport transfers.

Roundtrip flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. If your chosen tour departure date is guaranteed at the time of booking, you may be able to purchase flights immediately. If your tour departure date is not yet guaranteed (still pending minimum numbers), flights should not be booked until you receive an update on the status of your tour.

Please book your flights to arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI) at any time before 3pm on Day 1 and depart from Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) any time after 10am on Day 14.

Roundtrip airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only.

Important:  Please allow for travelling time from international countries. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive at your starting location on your chosen tour start date.

A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller's responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website, Visas Direct , to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa, please let us know and we will be more than happy to assist. Click here  to visit the website.

Need flights?  Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact [email protected] .

Important Destination Information:

Time zone: Eastern European Standard Time +2

Telephone: +20

Currency: Egyptian Pound (LE) but USD is often accepted at tourist sites

Accessing money: ATMs are widely available with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas. There is a shortage of small change; large bills can be difficult to break

Language: Arabic

Climate: Mild winter (November-April) and hot summer (May-October). Temperatures range between an average minimum of 14°C in winter and an average maximum of 30°C in summer.

Dress code: Relaxed but respectful, especially when visiting religious institutions.

Time zone: UTC +2 (daylight saving +3)

Telephone: +962

Currency: Jordan dinar (JOD)

Accessing money: ATMs are widely available with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas. Changing money is quite easy: the preferred currencies are USD, GBP and EUR.

Climate: In summer (June-August) the heat can be stifling, so early or late summer visits are advisable. Autumn (September-November) and winter (December-February) are some of the best times to visit the Dead Sea, however, nights in the desert can be cold with rainfall likely.

Dress code: Conservative. It is advised to wear moderate clothing that is not revealing or explicit.

Egypt, Jordan & Turkey with Flights

Amazing ancient wonders ultimate egypt, jordan & turkey.

• Brochure & More Info
• Similar Tours

What's included

• October 18, 2024 12:00 am
• November 1, 2024 12:00 am
• Accommodation based on twin share room
• Activities as per the itinerary
• Airport meet and greet
• Daily breakfast
• First class hotels
• Hotel taxes and service charges
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Meals as per the itinerary
• Transport in air conditioned vehicles
• Any items or services not specified
• Gratuities for guides and drivers
• Medical and emergency insurance
• Optional tours and activities
• Personal expenses
• Visa arrangements and fees

Tour overview

Fly to Cairo where sensational tour guides will escort you through the Egypt’s amazing sites. Spend time at the unmissable Great Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza. Discover the many wonders of Aswan and enjoy a 5-star cruise on the River Nile to explore the Temple of Kom-Ombo, stunning Luxor and astounding Valley of the Kings. There’s also time to relax at a fully-inclusive Red Sea resort.

Next, travel to magnificent Jordan. The tour includes the chance to float in the Dead Sea and set foot in the famous ancient city of Petra. Embark on a desert jeep safari and sleepover at a Bedouin campsite in Wadi Rum.

This pinch-yourself adventure continues in Turkey, a country filled with jaw-dropping scenery and captivating cities unlike anywhere else in Europe or Asia. From hovering over sunrise skies from a hot air balloon (optional experience) to exploring the fascinating cave dwellings of Cappadocia and the cascading hot springs of Pamukkale – Turkey is teeming with magical moments. Pay your respects to the soldiers of WWI on the shores of Gallipoli. And embrace the historian within, as you follow your local guide through ancient cities like Pergamum and Hierapolis.

Early Bird Special

For a limited time you can get the best rates on this popular tour package.

For 2024 departures and full details, call 1300 168 910 or email [email protected] today!

Inclusions at a glance

• Flights – Depart Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth or Canberra Economy class airfares (please contact us for other cities) Fly Australia-Cairo, Cairo-Amman, Amman-Istanbul & Istanbul-Australia Internal one-way flight Cairo-Aswan Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
• Egypt & Jordan inclusions – Hotels & cruise cabin with private en-suite facilities 11 nights hotels in twin share rooms 3 nights Nile cruise 5-star ship with sundeck, swimming pool & bar 14 meals: 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 6 dinners Sightseeing as per the itinerary (allow AU$210 for entrance fees in Egypt, paid locally) Modern air-conditioned private minibus/coach Airport transfers Services of Egyptologist and expert local guides Tour leader will be on hand with advice & information
• Turkey inclusions – First class hotels with private facilities 3 nights Istanbul 1 night Canakkale 2 nights Kusadasi 1 night Pamukkale 1 night Konya 2 nights Cappadocia 1 night Ankara Includes hotel taxes, fees & service charges & hotel porterage 21 meals: 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 9 dinners Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout Entrance fees per itinerary & wireless earphones for enhanced touring

Special features

• Visit the Great Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza plateau
• Visit the Pyramid of Zoser at Sakkara
• Visit the Philae Temple and High Dam of Aswan
• Explore Aswan at your leisure
• Visit the Temple of Kom-Ombo
• Sail the River Nile on a 5-star cruise ship
• Discover the East bank of Luxor; see temples of Karnak & Luxor
• Visit the Valley of the Kings; see Hatsheput and Colossi of Memnon
• Relax at an all-inclusive Red Sea resort
• Shop for souvenirs at the Khan El Khalili bazaar
• Visit the Egyptian Museum to see mummies, sarcophagi & more!
• Traverse the desert on a 4×4 safari & sleep in a tented camp in Wadi Rum
• Tuck into an authentic Jordanian dinner & enjoy some stargazing
• Discover the breathtaking Red Rose City of Petra
• Float in the famous waters of the Dead Sea
• Explore the Crusader stronghold of Kerak Castle
• Follow a local guide on a tour of the Jordanian capital of Amman
• At Gallipoli, visit the Anzac Cemetery & pay your respects at the memorial
• Tour the 4000-year-old city of Troy immortalised in Homer’s epic poem,  The Iliad
• Visit Pergamum, a kingdom dating back to the 4th century, home to the Roman center of Asclepion
• View Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its sacred hot springs
• Visit the Mausoleum of Kemal Ataturk, founder and first president of the Turkish Republic

Depart for Egypt

Arrive at the airport with ample time to check-in and board your flight to Cairo, Egypt.

Arrive in Cairo

Welcome to Cairo! A friendly local representative will receive you and help you with the passport process. Make your way to your hotel where you will find your Egyptologist tour guide who will accompany you throughout your trip. Take part in the tour briefing to learn what awaits you. Head to your room for a good night's sleep before your adventure commences in the morning!

Giza Pyramids - Sphinx - Sakkara

Fuel up for your first day of iconic Egyptian experiences! Follow your guide to the mesmerising Giza pyramid complex and revel in some of the country's most famous attractions. See the Great Pyramids and Sphinx with your own ease. Discover the majesty of the Zoser step pyramid and Pharaonic tombs. Spend the evening relaxing in your Cairo hotel.

Aswan - Philae Temple - Nile Cruise

Your included flight arrives in Aswan and then you make your way to the water to board a Nile cruise ship. Freshen up and get ready to be astounded by the sight of the High Dam of Aswan. Learn more about the history of the construction of the dam, and the creation of Lake Nasser, which necessitated the relocation of thousands of citizens and very important monuments. This includes Abu Simbel, which is on the itinerary tomorrow. Continue onwards to Agilkia Island to explore the Temple of Isis at Philae. Return to Aswan and overnight at the hotel.

Nile Cruise - Kom-Ombo

Enjoy the amazing views as we continue to navigate the Nile on our 5-star cruise ship. Opt-in on an excursion to the Abu Simbel complex - to massive temples at the southernmost tip of ancient Egypt’s borders. These Nubian Monuments have been around since the 1200s, when it was carved from the mountainside! Stopover at the Temple of Kom-Ombo this afternoon to learn more about the crocodile god Sobek, and the falcon god Haroeris. Overnight on the cruise ship as we make our way to Luxor.

Luxor - Karnak Temple - Nile Cruise

Disembark along the East Bank of Luxor and take a tour of this exciting destination. Experience the majesty of the Karnak temple complex in person - these grand monuments are remnants of ancient Thebes. Discover the historic Luxor temple, where you'll wander down the mesmerising Avenue of Sphinxes. Overnight at your hotel in Luxor and get ready for another full day of Egyptian adventuring.

Valley of the Kings - Hatshepsut - Hurghada

Lovers of history, assemble! Enjoy breakfast and head for the world-famous Valley of the Kings to explore the tombs of King Tutankhamen and other New Kingdom pharaohs. Discover the Temple of Hatshepsut and visit the striking Colossi of Memnon. Board our air-conditioned bus to Hurghada on the Red Sea and overnight at your hotel after enjoying an included dinner.

Hurghada : Free Day

Make the most of your free day Hurghada. Enjoy one of the many activities on offer at the resort. Explore the beach, keep cool in the pool, or simply relax. Alternatively, you can also go snorkelling or scuba diving along the amazing coral reefs. Breakfast, dinner and lunch are included today. Overnight at Hurghada.

Red Sea - Hurghada

Enjoy another free day full of fun and relaxation in Hurghada today! Make the most of the range of activities on offer at the resort. Dive deep and experience ocean life on a scuba diving or snorkelling trip. Alternatively, take it easy - soak up the sun next to the pool or on the beach. Indulge in delicious food and drinks as breakfast, lunch and dinner are all included again today. Spend your last evening on the Red Sea coastline getting some rest and relaxation as tomorrow it is time to make our way to Cairo.

Hurghada - Cairo

It’s time to travel to Cairo, Egypt’s sprawling capital city. Take a trip through history when you join an outing to the Egyptian Museum. Get to know more about Egypt’s fascinating history, which stretches back thousands of years and catch a glimpse of the treasures found in King Tutankhamun’s tomb! Afterwards, we pay a visit to the Cairo Bazaar, Khan El Khalili. Located in Cairo’s historic centre, this colourful bazaar is filled with an eclectic mix of things to eat, see and buy!

Cairo: Free Day

Spend a free day exploring the bustling city of Cairo at your leisure! Today, you can also choose to join a trip to Alexandria on the Mediterranean Coast. Named after its founder, Alexander the Great, Alexandria is a historic seaside city. Visit the fortress, catacombs, and souks and experience relics from bygone days. See the beautiful beaches and take in the views along the seafront. Make a stop at one of the inviting cafes and restaurants found along the seafront corniche. Return to Cairo where we will be spending the night.

Cairo - Amman - Wadi Rum

Get ready for a desert adventure as we make our way to Wadi Rum! Start the day with breakfast before we make our way to Cairo Airport to catch a flight to Amman in Jordan. Once we land in Amman, we will head to Wadi Rum and see the amazing desert landscapes. After checking in at our desert camp where we will be spending the night, we will explore the area on a two-hour 4x4 Jeep safari! After a day filled with desert-adventure, enjoy an authentic Jordanian dinner by the campfire. Finish your day off with some spectacular stargazing.

Wadi Rum - Petra

Hop aboard - we're off on a full-day trip to the gorgeous Rose City of Petra. Explore this ancient UNESCO site on horseback and by foot. Behold the world-renowned Treasury, which was carved from the limestone rockface. Learn more about this fascinating city and see all the major attractions, including the majestic Amphitheater. Overnight at a hotel in Petra.

Petra - Dead Sea - Kerak - Amman

Board the coach to head for the Dead Sea as we leave Petra behind. Experience first hand what it feels like to float in the dense, salty water that is purported to have healing properties. Pay a visit to the impressive Kerak Castle, a relic from the 1100s. Make your way to Amman and book in at the hotel this evening.

Amman city tour

Join in on a tour of the city of Amman after breakfast. Follow your guide to some of the best-loved sights in the city, including the Roman Temple of Hercules, the 8th-century Umayyad Palace complex, and more. Overnight at the Amman hotel and get ready to head home in the morning.

Amman to Istanbul

Your tour of Egypt and Jordan concludes today. We trust you had a wonderful time as we transfer you to Amman airport for you flights to Istanbul. Arrive in Istanbul, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia and make your way to your hotel. Balance of the day is at leisure. Tonight, attend orientation meeting with a Welcome Drink at approximately 7:30 PM with your Tour Manager and fellow travellers. Overnight: Istanbul

Istanbul City Tour

Embark on a half day morning tour of Istanbul, the only city that straddles two continents Your tour includes the Rustem Pasha Mosque, a 16th century Ottoman Mosque famous for its large quantities of Iznik tiles, which are set in a very wide variety of floral and geometric designs. Continue to the Hippodrome, the place where chariot races and competitive athletic events took place during the Roman period. You will also visit St. Sophia - the great Byzantine Basilica built in the 6th century. Then, onto the lively Spice Market with its unforgettable aromas. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Alternatively, choose to partake in the optional tour to the Topkapi Palace residence of Ottoman Sultans and the Grand Bazaar, where bargaining is an art. This evening, savor dinner together Optional: Half Day Istanbul with Topkapi Palace (PM) Overnight: Istanbul Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Anzac Cemetery, Drive to Canakkale

This morning, drive to the town of Gallipoli, site of the famous Ottoman victory against the Allies during World War I. Visit the Anzac Cemetery, a memorial to the casualties of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, whose fame grew back home as word of their heroic efforts spread. Afterwards, cross the Dardanelles by ferry and continue to the Canakkale province, located in northwest Turkey, where you will arrive in the early evening Overnight: Canakkale Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Visit Troy, Pergamum, Drive to Kusadasi

This morning, proceed to the classical city of Troy. Tour this 4000-year-old city and legendary center of the Trojan War, made immortal by Homer's epic poem The Iliad. Then, drive to Pergamum, a powerful kingdom during the ancient Hellenistic period, and visit the Asclepion, the ancient Roman spa center. Continue to Kusadasi, a city believed to be the birthplace of Homer, where you will arrive in the early evening Overnight: Kusadasi Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Full Day in Kusadasi

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Kusadasi. Or, join the optional tour to Ancient Ephesus where the Temple of Artemis, one of the "Seven Wonders of the Ancient World," once stood. Walk along the 2000 year-old marble streets; see the Great Theatre, the Odeon, the Fountain of Trajan, Temple of Hadrian, and the Library of Celsus. Visit the peaceful House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be her last residence and the Basilica of St. John. Following the tour, participate in an optional leather factory visit to shop or return to the hotel Optional: Full Day Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary with Lunch Overnight: Kusadasi Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Pamukkale Hot Springs, Necropolis, and Hierapolis

Depart Kusadasi and drive to Pamukkale, famous for its mineral-rich hot springs and white terraces. Visit the Necropolis and the ancient city of Hierapolis "Holy City," a UNESCO a World Heritage Site situated atop the Pamukkale hot springs. The Pamukkale hot springs have served as a therapeutic thermal spa since the 2nd century B.C. Tonight, gather together for dinner Overnight: Pamukkale Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel to Konya

Today, travel from Pamukkale, the "Cotton Castle," to Konya, a city renowned for its Seljuk architecture and also as the home of the "Whirling Dervishes." Arrive in the afternoon and visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana with its distinctive fluted dome of turquoise tiles. View works of the 13th century leader Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi, one of the greatest mystical poets of Islam. The Mevlevi Sufi order was founded to follow his teachings. After exploring the museum, join your fellow travelers for dinner together Overnight: Konya Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Visit Caravanserai of Sultanhan en route to Cappadocia

Depart for Cappadocia, visiting the magnificent Caravanserai of Sultanhan en route. Afterward, visit Guzelyurt, a fine example of cave dwellings and Greek influences in the Cappadocia region. Following lunch, continue to Nevsehir in Cappadocia. Upon arrival in Cappadocia, visit a carpet atelier and have a demonstration of carpet weaving. After, check in to your hotel with free time before dinner. Tonight, attend the optional Whirling Dervish performance; their captivating mystical ritual connects one in infinite spinning to perfect harmony Optional: Whirling Dervishes Performance (PM) Overnight: Cappadocia Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Morning Sightseeing in Cappadocia

Awake very early to participate in the optional hot air Balloon Ride that takes you soaring over the magnificent Cappadocian landscape with its incredible fairy chimney rock formations - the feeling is both serene and sublime. Then, explore Cappadocia with your group to see Guvercinlik, Uchisar, Pasabag, and the Devrent Valley. Famed for temples and houses cut directly into the region's spectacular rock formations, Cappadocia has captivated travellers for centuries. Perhaps, opt to join the optional half day tour of Cappadocia that includes the Open-Air Museum in Goreme Valley; see early Christian churches decorated with unique frescoes. Explore the village of Avanos, famous for its beautiful old houses and onyx, and visit a local pottery shop. The tour ends at the fascinating Ozkonak Underground City, built on the northern slopes of Mt. Idis. Return to the hotel with free time before dinner tonight Optional: Cappadocia Balloon Ride (AM). Optional: Half Day Cappadocia (PM) Overnight: Cappadocia Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Ankara, Mausoleum of Kemal Ataturk

This morning, depart for Ankara, the capital and the second largest city of Turkey. Upon arrival, visit the Mausoleum of Kemal Ataturk, founder and first president of the Turkish Republic. Leading up to the Mausoleum, also known as the Anitkabir, lies a vast brick courtyard and monumental avenue lined with NeoHittite stone statues and cenotaphs beneath its colonnades. The most noted cenotaphs within the complex are those of General Ismet Inonu, a close comrade of Ataturk's and his successor, and that of Ataturk himself, a large and highly decorative marble cenotaph, beneath which lies his tomb. Continue to the Anatolian Civilizations Museum - built in two Ottoman buildings located near Ankara Castle. The Museum, being among exceptional museums with its unique collection, exhibits Anatolian archaeological artifacts, as well as artifacts from the Paleolithic Age to the present Overnight: Ankara Meals: Breakfast

Travel to Istanbul

Depart for Istanbul, arriving in the early afternoon. Leisure time to explore on your own on this last day in Turkey. Perhaps, embark on the optional cruise along the Bosphorus, the winding straits separating Europe and Asia. View humble fishing villages and suspension bridges set against the dramatic outline of the Strait. Afterwards, visit the Grand Bazaar, where bargaining is an art. Tonight, attend a festive Farewell Dinner with your newfound friends Optional: Half Day Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise & Grand Bazaar (PM) Overnight: Istanbul Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Depart Turkey

Make your way to the airport for your departure flight to Australia. Tour ends and treasured memories begin! Meals: Breakfast

More about Egypt Discover Egypt

More about jordan.

• On the highest hill in Amman you'll find the Citadel. The hill was a fortress for thousands of year and archaeologists have found artefacts from the Bronze Age. Two of the most impressive remains are the Temple of Hercules and the Ummayad Palace.
• Wadi Rum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Jordan. The 74,000-hectare property is a rich and varied desert landscape of narrow gorges, dramatic cliffs, 20,000 rock carvings and a strong history of human occupation that dates back 12,000 years.
• The Dead Sea is actually a lake that's bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel and the West Bank to the west. The 'sea' sits 400 metres below sea level and the water is nearly 10 times more salty than most oceans. Aptly named because nothing can live in the water, that doesn't put off humans and bathing is must. The high salt levels make floating a breeze and the mineral-rich mud is believed to have therapeutic qualities that will make your skin shine!

More about Turkey Discover Turkey

• Drink a real Turkish coffee. This isn't just a heart-starter in the morning, it's a ritual that should be savoured and appreciated in a local cafe.
• Try a Turkish bath, or hammam. You'll be steamed, scrubbed and pounded in the quest for wellness, but it will be worth it and it's one of those things you need to do at least once in your life!

My Travel Experience Review

This tour is a firm favourite because it covers so much in just under 4 weeks and ticks off some of the world's most amazing historical sites. Expert tour managers are with you all the way, including Egyptologist guides in Egypt. Hotels have been carefully chosen for their comfort and location, there are many inclusions and meals, plus most importantly, safe travel protocols are in place.

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More about this tour

See the brochure

Click here to view, download or print a copy of this tour brochure.

The brochure includes details of the inclusions, itinerary and other relevant travel information. Information contained in the brochure is subject to change and at the time of booking you will be provided with an updated copy that includes the current details for your reservation.

Tour start time

The start time listed on this website is a guide only. If flights are included, you will be advised of your flight details and check-in times when your booking is confirmed. For 'land only' bookings, you will be notified of when your services commence and any applicable tour start times.

Important to remember...

The day-by-day tour descriptions are intended as an indicative guide only. Travel by nature is unpredictable. Weather patterns, sea or river conditions, road accessibility, public holidays, travel restrictions and a multitude of other factors may necessitate itinerary changes that are ultimately for the client’s benefit. It is essential that travellers are flexible and open minded in this regard.

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Email [email protected] . Phone 1300 168 910 (in Australia) or +61 400 226 454 (from overseas or via mobile).

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Jordan & Egypt Express

9 days | ancient cities, desert and sea, deep in bedouin territory.

Rock-hewn amphitheatres, desert dune bashing and reef exploring – this trip may be quick, but it packs in a lot of action. Take a nine-day trip through the best of Jordan and Egypt to discover the most epic of histories and striking of landscapes. Wander the ancient city of Petra, relax along the Gulf of Aqaba coastline, and finish up among the souqs and pyramids in Cairo. As you travel this land of courageous adventurers, mighty pharaohs and biblical prophets, be greeted by the legendary hospitality of local Bedouin people at your Wadi Rum desert camp and discover the underwater worlds that lie beneath the azure waters of the Red Sea.

Trip overview

• Lay back and take an effortless float in the super salty waters of the Dead Sea after visiting Moses’ Promised Land at Mt Nebo. Everywhere you visit in Jordan has a story to tell.
• Spend a whole day uncovering the majesty and mystery of Petra. Follow your local leader down the narrow path of the Siq for your first unforgettable glimpse of the hand-carved Treasury.
• Jump in a jeep and experience the extraordinary desert scenery of Wadi Rum with your small group – a rugged lunar-like landscape of huge sandstone mountains and sandy plains.
• Join Bedouin locals at a desert camp in Wadi Rum for a night of traditional hospitality, good food and starry skies. You’ll learn about the Bedouin way of life and fall asleep to the eerie silence of the desert.
• Explore the incredible underwater world that lies just offshore at the Red Sea by snorkel and get into the laidback vibe of Dahab, full of seaside cafes and sheesha.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Animal Care in Egypt. Donations help them care for sick or injured working animals, like horses and donkeys, and help empower local communities with the knowledge and training to better care for their animals.
• There is quite a bit of walking involved in visiting Jordan's historic sites, especially in Petra and Wadi Rum, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. Often there is little to no shade, so remember to bring sun protection and comfortable walking shoes.
• Your desert camp stay in Wadi Rum may be simple, but it is an incredible experience. There are tents and shared western bathroom facilities. Please be aware that while the desert may be very hot during the day, it will still be cool at night, so warm clothes and a sleeping bag are highly recommended – especially when travelling outside of the summer months.
• Winters can get quite cool in this region, so if you're visiting at this time, don't forget to pack some warmer layers too.
• The Aqaba–Nuweiba ferry travels across the Gulf of Aqaba. It can be rough, and is a long travel day, but is the easiest way to travel between the two destinations. Your leader in Jordan will assist you until you reach the Aqaba port and you will be greeted by your new leader once you've crossed the border in Egypt. If you do experience sea sickness, please take appropriate precautions for the journey. This journey can often be held up due to scheduling or weather conditions. Please see the Day 5 ‘Special Information’ section of the trip itinerary for more details.

Ahlan Wa Sahlan! Welcome to Jordan – cosmopolitan, contemporary and teeming with biblical history. Your trip begins with an important welcome meeting at 6 pm today, where you’ll meet your local leader and travel crew. If you do happen to arrive early, be sure to take in the sweeping views of Amman from the citadel, explore the Jordan Museum that’s home to the Dead Sea Scrolls, or take a trip out to the ruins of Jerash – an ancient walled town that remarkably recalls life 2000 years ago. After meeting up for your briefing, head out on the town, perhaps feasting on ara’yes – Jordan’s answer to a toasted sandwich, packed full of spiced meat.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Amman - Citadel (entrance fee) - JOD3
• Amman - Roman Theatre (entrance fee) - JOD2
• Madaba - Al-Maghtas Bethany Baptism site (entrance fee) - JOD12
• Jerash - Roman ruins - Entry Fee - JOD10
• Amman - Jordan Archaeological Museum (entrance fee) - JOD3
• Amman - King Abdullah I Mosque (entrance fee) - JOD2

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. If you’d like to spend more time in Amman, we'll be happy to book additional accommodation (subject to availability).

We have listed the total price including transportation and local guides (where applicable) for these optional activities wherever possible. This is to help you budget for any additional excursions you might like to do on your trip. Some activities require minimum numbers to operate. If you prefer to do your own thing, taxis are available and your leader can assist in organising.

This morning, travel by minibus to Mt Nebo. Mt Nebo is the place where the prophet Moses is supposedly buried and is said to have seen the 'Promised Land'. Explore this sanctuary, checking out the remarkable mosaics inside its fourth-century church. On a clear day, the views over the Dead Sea to Israel and the Palestinian Territories are spectacular. Afterwards, take a 30-minute drive to the super salty Dead Sea. Technically sitting below sea level, it’s perfect for swimming and floating in, and the mud on the sea floor is said to have healing properties – so lather up! Continue on to the crusader castle of Kerak, sitting in a commanding position on top of a cliff overlooking Kerak town and the valley below. Spend time exploring the seven-level fortress and learn the legends of 12th-century battles between Crusaders and Muslim armies. Continue on to Petra for the night.

• Mt Nebo - Mt Nebo Visit - JOD2
• Dead Sea - Dead Sea visit - JOD12
• Kerak - Kerak Castle (entrance fee) - JOD2
• Petra - Petra By Night - JOD17

Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Your tour today includes stops at the Dead Sea, Mount Nebo and Kerak Castle, but keep in mind that entry fees are not included. When swimming at the Dead Sea, towels are available for hire.

Many travellers like to experience Petra by night, however, this is only available on certain days of the week. Feel free to ask your group leader for more information, and if this optional activity is available to you on your dates.

The jewel of Jordan, the lost city of the biblical Nabateans, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World – Petra is a magical hand-carved wonder. Today, you’ll have the chance to discover this sixth century BC masterpiece with your small group. Be dwarfed by the towering rock formations as you squeeze through a narrow path called the Siq until you reach the grand entrance of the iconic Treasury. Gaze up at the intricate carvings and details, and spend the afternoon exploring the site at your own pace. There’s the old Roman road, other temples and old tombs, as well as the rock-hewn amphitheatre to explore. For those feeling more adventurous, take a challenging hike up a set of stairs to the smaller but no less impressive monastery, taking approximately one hour. After arriving back at your accommodation, why not find a traditional bathhouse to rejuvenate after a day of incredible sightseeing.

• Petra - Guided tour (One day pass included)
• Petra - Additional Petra day pass - JOD5

One day's entrance fee to Petra is included in your trip. Please note that when entering Petra as a group, a complimentary horse ride is included in the ticket price from the entrance point down to the Siq. Intrepid Travel doesn't recommend that you take this option due to the safety and insurance liability involved.

Follow in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia with a short drive to the extraordinary desert scenery of Wadi Rum – a rugged lunar-like landscape framed by huge sandstone mountains. Head on a half-day jeep safari, taking you through some sublime scenery and uncovering traces of ancient civilisations seen in the many carved inscriptions found throughout the area, from pictographs to Thamudic, Nabataean and Arabic texts. The most enduring monuments in Wadi Rum are those carved by nature – natural rock bridges, towering rose-coloured sand dunes and scattered rocky peaks. Spend the night sleeping in a simple desert camp under a camel hair tent. Enjoy a delicious dinner cooked in an earthen oven by your desert dwelling Bedouin hosts, and soak in your truly unforgettable surroundings.

• Desert camp (1 night)
• Wadi Rum - 4WD jeep safari
• Wadi Rum - Bedouin Desert Camp
• Wadi Rum - Zarb Local Dinner

Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Conditions are basic at the desert camp, but the hospitality of your hosts is legendary, and you'll treasure the memory of sleeping beneath the rugged landscape.

Tonight, a mattress and blankets are provided. Please be aware that while the desert may be very hot during the day, it will still be cool at night and warm clothes and a sleeping bag are highly recommended when travelling outside of the summer months. Western-style toilet facilities are available.

This morning, leave Wadi Rum and make tracks for Aqaba. You’ll have some free time in Aqaba today, and have the option of day-use rooms to freshen up and store your luggage. Early in the evening, bid your Jordan local leader farewell and transfer to Aqaba port to board a comfortable air-conditioned ferry bound for Nuweiba. Depending on timing, weather conditions and delays, this journey over the Gulf of Aqaba can take between 2.5 and 5 hours, so be sure to have a good book or device with you to kill the time. When you arrive, meet your Egyptian group leader and transfer to your accommodation for a well-earned rest.

• Aqaba - Visit

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 to 6 hours.

The Aqaba–Nuweiba ferry can be rough, so take precautions if you experience sea sickness. The ferry can be delayed, but your Egypt group leader will meet you on arrival regardless of delays. In the event of adverse weather conditions, the ferry may be cancelled altogether, in which case overland travel through Israel and The Palestinian Territories will be arranged.

At the Aqaba ferry terminal, you will pass security and pay a JOD10 departure tax, keeping the receipt to get stamped. On board, take your passport to the counter in the middle of the ferry where it will stay for the journey. Once arrived, an escort will take you and your passport to the arrival terminal, where you will pass immigration and then meet up with your Egypt group leader. Egypt visa requirements are shown in the ‘Visa’ section of the Essential Trip Information.

It's a short drive to the laidback resort area of Dahab – your base for the next two nights. Dahab, meaning 'gold' in Arabic, has gone from a Bedouin fishing village to a popular tourist town, thanks to the excellent conditions for activities like diving, windsurfing and rock climbing. However, the town hasn't lost its authenticity and lowkey appeal that’s attracted visitors since the 1970s. The rest of the day is free for you to take in the many treats this spot has to offer – cafes, seafood or some snorkelling in the Red Sea. Dahab is well known for its drop-offs – spectacular coral reef shelves that plunge into the vast blue depths of the ocean below. There are also plenty of relaxed bars and restaurants to sit back and enjoy good local food and some sheesha.

In the morning, why not strap on a mask and head to the Blue Hole for some snorkelling at one of the best diving spots in the world. The area gets its name from a submarine sinkhole about 94 metres deep, with an arch in the coral reef down at 54 metres – a challenge that’s only open to highly experienced technical divers. Snorkellers can enjoy one of the greatest spots in the Red Sea here. Float on the surface and look down into an endless world of blue, then make your way around to ‘the Bridge’, where the visibility is always great and the untouched coral swarms with all different types of colourful fish and marine life. After you’ve had your fill of snorkelling, return to Dahab for an evening feast at a waterside restaurant, or perhaps head inland to Assalah, where local joints serve up plates of roast chicken and falafel with some cold regional beer.

• Dahab - Blue Hole snorkelling - USD35

Today you’ll be able to experience the contrast between seaside Dahab and the wonderfully chaotic, always colourful capital city of Cairo. Transfer to Sharm El Sheikh Airport and take the short flight to Cairo. Cairo is one of the great cities of antiquity and its history can be embodied by two of its imposing landmarks – the Pyramids of Giza and the Mosque of Mohammed Ali. Tonight, why not join your new travel mates for a celebratory dinner in the city – your local leader will know of some delicious places to eat.

• Cairo - Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids Tour - USD55

Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time following check-out. While this trip doesn't include time to explore the sights of Cairo, it’s strongly recommended that you spend a few extra days to see more of what the city has to offer. If you would like to spend more time here, just speak to your booking agent.

7 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Plane, Ferry, Minibus, Jeep

Hotel (7 nights), Desert camp (1 night)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 4 where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. On Day 8 there is an included internal flight from Sharm El Sheihk to Cairo. The maximum check-in baggage allowance is 23kgs per person plus 7kgs hand luggage. 3. The ferry to Nuweiba can be rough on occasions and those who suffer from seasickness may want to prepare themselves. Besides this the ferry is frequently delayed or even cancelled at the last minute, patience is required for this journey, you are likely not to arrive in Egypt until after midnight, please see Day 5 of the itinerary for more details.  

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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What to Know About Travel to Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon

The israel-hamas war has affected tourism in neighboring middle eastern countries. local tour operators and travel companies report on the current conditions on the ground..

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Travelers to Egypt are likely to experience fewer crowds these days.

Photo by Fynn Schmidt/Unsplash

Pia Abboud’s tour business, Discovery Beyond Borders , was already hurting after a trifecta of crises hit her native Lebanon. “Worldwide we had COVID, but in Lebanon, we also had the economic crisis , the Beirut explosion [in 2020], and now the war [in] Gaza and Palestine, which is affecting the south of Lebanon and the region in general,” she said via WhatsApp.

Abboud hasn’t led any tours since October 7, when the war between Israel and Hamas began . Seven months in, she isn’t sure how long she’ll be able to stay in business. “How resilient should we be? Every year there is another surprise that hits, and each time we think it can’t get any worse, and yet it does,” she said.

Jordanian guide Ahmad Alomari had just gotten home from a hiking-guide training in Utah and Wyoming when the war started. What was expected to be a busy high season amounted to cancellation after cancellation. Alomari said he’s seen a 90 percent drop in bookings compared to 2022. “I was thinking of selling my farm and investing out[side] of tourism, but at the same time, everything in Jordan is impacted, and no one is interested in buying,” he said.

Basem Salah, co-founder of Great Wonders of Egypt Travel , has also seen his bookings plummet since October. “The Gaza conflict has affected our cultural as well as beach tourism badly,” said Salah. In all three countries bordering Israel, the war is having a ripple effect on an important pillar of their economies: tourism.

Tourism had been on the rise

When the war began, Lebanon was still coping with one of the worst economic crises since the mid-19th century , which was brought on by a confluence of factors, including mounting debt, political instability, and financial mismanagement. But things had been improving in summer 2023 thanks in part to a “ tourism boom .” A couple of months later, visitors stopped coming, and the World Bank predicted that Lebanon’s economy could reverse into further recession .

Egypt was also seeing travel pick up. After its economy suffered from a spike in grain prices related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, 2023 was one of the country’s best years for tourism on record, the government said, though visitor numbers aren’t as high as predicted and aren’t expected to return until U.S. and European travelers do.

Jordan’s tourism industry was skyrocketing in 2023 as well, but in November, travelers from the United States dropped by 90 percent, and British, French, Italian, German, and Spanish visitors all but stopped coming as well. According to Hakim Al-Tamimi, Jordan tourism board’s representative for Western Europe and adventure travel, 4,531 Spanish travelers came to Jordan in September 2023, while just 747 visited the country in February 2024. The decline in visitors is especially significant for an economy like Jordan’s, which receives 14.6 percent of its gross domestic product from tourism (for context, the United States reached 2.9 percent in 2023 ).

Tour operators and hotels have had to lay off staff, leaving workers with few options for employment in Jordan’s fragile economy. “A lot of the things that, with all due respect, Western people take for granted, we just simply don’t have,” said Al-Tamimi. “We don’t have the concept of unemployment checks.”

A journalist who recently traveled to Wadi Rum reported that she had the glamping outpost entirely to herself.

Photo by Hanna/Unsplash

What it’s like to travel to Jordan, Egypt, and Lebanon now

Recent visitors and operators on the ground say world-famous sites like Petra in Jordan, Lebanon’s Baalbek Roman Ruins, and the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt are rather empty. “It is a recommended time to travel actually,” said Salah of Great Wonders of Egypt.

Yulia Denisyuk , a freelance journalist who visited Jordan on multiple occasions in the past seven years, said that when she was there in February, there was barely anyone in Wadi Rum and no one else at her favorite accommodation, Rum Planet Camp . “It was very surreal: Jordan is always calm but was even more so now without tourists there,” she said. “But it was also eerie and heartbreaking to know that [war] is happening so close to where we stood.”

Karolanne Emery, a teacher who embarked on a weeklong dive trip from London to Egypt in February, said she had a great time in Hurghada and Dahab, and she plans to return this October. “Honestly, apart from the Palestine flags, you would never know that there was a war happening in the next country,” she said.

Travel journalist Dayvee Sutton visited Lebanon on a 33-hour stopover in mid-October near the beginning of the war and said a short trip wasn’t nearly enough. “I only had two days and wish I stayed a week,” she said.

As of press time, the U.S. State Department lists a travel advisory for Jordan as a Level 2, or “exercise increased caution,” while Lebanon and Egypt are listed as Level 3 or “reconsider travel.” The highest level is 4, which is a “do not travel” advisory.

The Baalbek Roman Ruins in Lebanon have traditionally been a popular cultural attraction for visitors.

Photo by Chloe Christine/Unsplash

Travel to the Middle East isn’t expected to return en masse as long as the war continues, but some in the industry are seeing signs that not all travelers are staying away.

Tour operator Intrepid says bookings for its tours to Egypt and Jordan “are strong,” and Alexandra Baackes of Wander Women Retreats said her 14-woman trip to Jordan for May 2024 was sold out. “We definitely have done a lot of guest reassurance around traveling to Jordan at this time, even offering to speak directly to some of our guests’ families who had hesitations,” she said. “As heartbreaking as the situation is right now across the border, I feel confident that our guests in Jordan and Egypt will not be impacted. If anything, they will find thinner crowds and even wider open arms than usual.”

The situation is different in Lebanon, which sees frequent missile fire over its southern border (Beirut, Egyptian Red Sea towns, and an U.S. Army base in northeastern Jordan on the border with Syria have also experienced strikes). Abboud of Discovery Beyond Borders in Lebanon doesn’t expect business to pick back up for at least a year—though her booking calendar is no longer empty. “I’m hosting three groups in the next two months,” she said. “But I still cannot deny that I am nervous every day that something is going to happen and they might cancel.”

“Honestly, we live day by day with no predictions or long-term plan,” she said.

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Egypt & Jordan Discovered By Nile Cruise (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

• In-depth Cultural
• River Cruise
• Fully Guided
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Cairo
• Day 2 Cairo City Tour, Overnight Sleeper Train
• Day 3 Aswan
• Day 4 Aswan, Nile Cruise
• Day 5 Nile Cruise, Edfu, Luxor
• Day 6 Luxor
• Day 7 Luxor, Overnight Sleeper Train
• Day 8 Cairo City Tour
• Day 9 Cairo to Dahab via Sudr & Sharm El Sheikh Road
• Day 10 Dahab
• Day 11 Dahab, Taba, Aqaba, Wadi Rum
• Day 12 Wadi Rum, Petra
• Day 13 Petra
• Day 14 Petra, Shobak Castle, Dead Sea , Amman
• Day 15 Amman

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Customer photos.

Operated by Travel Talk

At Travel Talk, we have one focus and that is simply to make your trip the experience of a lifetime without breaking the bank. Being avid travellers ourselves, we know what is essential to creating that perfect trip and combine all of these elements in every one of our tours. With fascinating destinations, expert guides, like-minded travellers, premium accommodation and travel – not to mention competitive prices; we strive to tick all the boxes to create the most unique and authentic travelling experiences. Explore exotic destinations filled with wonders as Egypt, Turkey, Jordan, Israel, Russia or India & Nepal. Embrace the authentic culture and otherworldly experiences in Morocco, Iceland and the Balkans. Then meet the warm sun and cool waters of Greece, Croatia, Spain & Portugal. Commemorate the fallen on the ANZAC Day, hit the snowy slopes with Ski Bansko in the winter, and sink a beer at Oktoberfest together with like-minded travellers. Travel Talk group tours are ideal for culture-hungry adventurous travellers chasing the most unique travel stories around the world. Travel Talk guests are not just tourists, but avid travellers. Join us on one of our tours to find out the difference.

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Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.6
• Itinerary Excellent 4.7
• Guide Excellent 4.9
• Transport Excellent 4.4
• Accommodation Excellent 4.4
• Food Excellent 4.3
• Tour Operator Travel Talk 4.7
• Most Recent
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• Lowest First
• A C. Phillips · 8th February 2024 Great tour. Full on with lots of planned activities as well as optional extras. Having WIFI on the bus was a nice. Tour guide Adham was great and always happy to help and very knowledgeable about ancient Egypt. Absolutely Loved the five days in Dahab.... Show more Trip date: July 2019 Review collected by Travel Talk
• A F. Crabtree · 8th February 2024 Really fantastic, Adham is full of knowledge. Would be great time at temples. Trip date: July 2019 Review collected by Travel Talk
• A M. Hendrie · 8th February 2024 Adham was a wonderful guide who brought a lot of fun and laughter to tour tour. The Felucca was fun and a good opportunity to relax after some busy days. Overall I would recommend this trip. Trip date: September 2019 Review collected by Travel Talk
• A C. Smith · 8th February 2024 Overall the tour was well run and we saw a lot in a small amount of time. I enjoyed all the activities. The guides Mostafa and Roshy did an amazing job and went above and beyond to make sure everyone was happy. Trip date: September 2019 Review collected by Travel Talk
• A A. Green · 8th February 2024 Dahab Paradise Hotel was amazing. Mostafa and Roshy are brilliant at what they do. Very impressed with them. Trip date: September 2019 Review collected by Travel Talk
• A K. Nguyen · 8th February 2024 The tour guides were amazing - both took care of our groups and they were knowledgable about the history of Egypt. The customer service at Dahab Paradise was fantastic and the staff went out of their way to accommodate us. Trip date: October 2019 Review collected by Travel Talk
• A L. Baker · 8th February 2024 Dahab Paradise was beyond amazing. Excellent service and great quality food. Mostafa and Roshy both very professional, informative and friendly! Great work guys!! Trip date: October 2019 Review collected by Travel Talk
• A S. Walters · 8th February 2024 Loved many of the hotels and the ease of being transported between many temples and attractions. Absolutely loved the Dahab accomodation and time spent here. Overall a wonderful experience in Egypt. Trip date: October 2019 Review collected by Travel Talk
• A D. Carlisle · 8th February 2024 Great tour with plenty of information. Adham was a great tour guide. Unreal experience and had a great time. Trip date: October 2019 Review collected by Travel Talk
• A C. Felton · 8th February 2024 Adham was amazing, so informative and covered everything. Trip date: October 2019 Review collected by Travel Talk

Dates & Availability

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• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
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• August 2025
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• December 2025
• -45% Saturday 25 May, 2024 Saturday 8 Jun, 2024 English €4,254 €2,339 Confirm Dates
• -45% Saturday 1 Jun, 2024 Saturday 15 Jun, 2024 English €4,107 €2,258 Confirm Dates
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Frequently Asked Questions

Most of the passengers tend to be between the ages of 18 and 39, but more mature travellers with a young outlook are also welcomed! If this trip isn't quite what you were looking for, we still have plenty of fantastic tours. Get in contact with us and our customer support team will work on pairing you with the perfect adventure.

The local payment for Egypt & Jordan Discovered By Nile Cruise needs to be paid in cash upon arrival at the tour. The local payment allows you to not pay the full price upfront, but allows you to save up until the tour departs and only pay once you arrive at the tour. At the same time, in case you need to cancel your tour, you wont be required to pay the local payment amount.

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Good to Know

• Currencies £ Egyptian Pound Egypt د.ا Jordanian Dinar Jordan

As a traveller from USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, D, M, J, G. As a traveller from England you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, D, M, J. As a traveller from South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, J, G.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Egypt and Jordan. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Egypt and Jordan. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Egypt and Jordan. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Egypt and Jordan. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an infected area for Egypt. Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Jordan. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 21st July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 21st July 2024, a minimum payment of €150 is required to confirm your booking with Travel Talk. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Travel Talk will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Travel Talk" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of Travel Talk. Please familiarise yourself with the Travel Talk payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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23 Day Egypt, Jordan & Turkey

These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights, and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.

This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.

River cruises are a relaxed, informal way to travel - there are fewer passengers on board compared to an ocean cruise, which means ample opportunity to make lifelong friends. You will pass through the world's most loved cities and towns; disembark and enjoy a shore excursion or two, or simply wander around and explore on your own. 

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognised and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation. 

We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.

Australian owned and operated with 100% Australian Customer Service support  

We are proudly 100% Australian owned and operated, with our head office located in Melbourne, Victoria. When you make your booking, you will receive dedicated and ongoing support from our team of travel professionals throughout your booking, up until you are due to depart. 

✓ Limited Time Offer - Add return international airfares for only $999 ✓ Incredible sightseeing, get up close to the spellbinding Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, marvel at the extraordinary city of Petra and uncover Turkey's ancient monuments ✓ Small group experience with no more than 20 travellers ✓ 14 nights in central 4 and 5-star accommodation ✓ Cruise the Nile on your floating home for 4 nights ✓ Stay overnight in a private tent in the Wadi Rum desert, gazing at the stars ✓ Spend two nights in a spectacular cave hotel in Cappadocia ✓ Overnight train from Cairo to Luxor in a twin share cabin ✓ Breakfast daily, 6 lunches, 11 dinners ✓ Fully escorted by an Egyptologist guide in Egypt and expert tour leaders in Jordan and Turkey ✓ Dedicated transportation and all rail tickets ✓ Airport transfers included on the first/last day of tour

Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.

Day 1 Cairo

Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to Egypt. On arrival at the airport, make your way to your hotel located near the Pyramids of Giza.

A buzzing metropolis, home to at least 19 million people, Cairo gives you a great feel for Egyptian streetlife. It’s busy – almost frantic – and among the hustle and bustle, it’s an exciting blend of old world and new. Arabs call this city Umm al-Dunya (the mother of the world). There are many beautiful mosques to visit, like the Mohammed Ali Mosque in the Citadel. Or head to the oldest part of Cairo, the Babylon Fortress, to see ancient ruins. For stunning panoramic views of the capital, go up the 187-metre-high Cairo Tower.

Try some street food – lamb shawarma, anyone? – or get a taste of Egyptian street life by visiting a cafe. Sit in an ahwa and sip traditional mint tea. The shisha pipe can be found in many ahwas and restaurants across Cairo.

Day 2 Cairo

This morning, meet your guide and head out to see some of the world’s most iconic sights – the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Explore these structures that have stood tall for some 4,500 years and learn about the ancient history of the monuments. The oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one to remain largely intact, the pyramids are a sight to behold.

Afterwards, we visit the Egyptian Museum, home to one of the world's great collections of antiquities. Wander the treasure-filled halls of the museum, a highlight of which is the masses of gleaming artefacts recovered from the tomb of Tutankhamun.

Day 3 Cairo Luxor

Today, enjoy a free day at leisure.

Later this afternoon you'll be transferred to the airport to board your included flight to Luxor.

Join a local guide to get in touch with Cairo's Islamic heart. From backstreet bazaars to minaret-topped mosques, and neighbourhood coffee houses, these are the places that make Egypt's sprawling capital what it is. We will visit Sultan Hassan mosque and Madrasa, the finest piece of early Mamluk architecture in Cairo. It was built between 1356 and 1363 by Sultan Hassan then we will enjoy a walk in Moez street starting form Bab el Fetouh and we will end our Adventure in Khan El Khalili Bazaar. A labyrinth of narrow streets and passageways, Khan el-Khalili is one of the world’s largest bazaars and offers a truly authentic local Cairo experience.

Please note: the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.

Starts: 8:30am End: 3:30pm Inclusions: private transportation, private guide

Day 4 Luxor Embark on Nile Cruise

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel then we'll explore the magnificent Karnak Temple, which is perhaps the most impressive of all the ancient pharaohs' monumental works. One of the world's most celebrated temple complexes, Karnak was built over some 200 years and was once known as the 'Chosen of Places'. Your guided tour of this vast temple of impressive pylons, obelisks and chapels will reveal its finest sections, such as the Avenue of Sphinxes and the Great Temple of Amun.

Then it’s time to embark on your luxury Nile cruise that will be home for the next 4 nights. You’ll cruise between Luxor and Aswan on this elegant ship, with all the comforts you would expect from a 5-star floating hotel.

Please note that since the sailing distance between Luxor and Aswan is approximately 200kms, that it is typical for all cruises operated along the Nile to be docked for majority of the time to conduct sightseeing, with the sailing to occur of an evening. The vessel will be docked either in Luxor or Aswan. Depending on the time of year and number of vessels operating at the same time, you will also find that all vessels are docked beside one another, which is beyond our control.

To ensure that our customers have appropriate expectations prior to their journey, it is important not to compare this experience to that of a European River Cruise, which tend to cover a greater distance and on larger vessels. Instead, you will experience a Deluxe stay on-board your vessel, offering a great chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the banks of the Nile while you sit back and relax. Your cruise schedule will be provided once on-board.

Situated on the East Bank of the Nile River, in the city of Luxor, Luxor Temple was built approximately 1400 BC. The site is over 73 sq km and exhibits obelisks, giant statues, an Avenue of Sphinx statues, the Grand colonnade and the Barque Shrine of Theban Triad. Viewing is as majestic at night as it is during the day.

Start: 4:00pm End: 6:00pm Inclusions: return transfers to temple, entrance into Luxor Temple

Day 5 Luxor Valley of the Kings Luxor Edfu

Today we'll discover some of the many wonders of ancient Thebes. Our first stop is the Colossi of Memnon – two 17-metre-high statues on Luxor's west bank. Carved from granite blocks, they represent the Pharaoh Amenhotep III and were once part of an impressive colonnade.

Continue on to the spectacular royal burial site of the Valley of the Kings. Buried under the arid hills here are the tombs of more than 60 pharaohs, many richly decorated with reliefs and paintings. Explore this sprawling and spectacular place with your guide, where the pharaohs of the New Kingdom (16th to 11th century BCE) were secretly interred for all eternity, and where archaeological discoveries are still being made. Your guide will explain the history of and legends surrounding these remarkable people, their funerary rites, and the significance of the many paintings and hieroglyphics, still well-preserved in the deepest tombs.

After paying a visit to three of the most interesting royal tombs we'll continue to the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a stunning colonnaded building of sharp lines that contrasts beautifully against the craggy high cliffs behind it, creating a spectacular natural amphitheatre. One of Egypt’s greatest queens, this temple was built to prove her importance among the ancestors.

Enjoy lunch upon your return to the boat. There is time to relax on deck, or in your cabin, before we set sail for Edfu. Generally the journey from Luxor to Edfu takes place between 1pm an 11 pm, though the departure time may vary, depending on river traffic. En route to Edfu we pass through the Esna Lock and head upstream.

Edfu Temple Please note: The only mode of transport available to visit the Temple of Edfu is by locally managed horse and carriages. As a responsible travel-focused business, animal welfare is extremely important to us and we want to ensure that we are not promoting any activities where the working animals are not properly cared for. Unfortunately, some operators of the Horse and Carriages have been found to be in breach of our animal welfare guidelines and it is, for this reason, we will no longer include the visit to the Temple of Edfu.

In addition to the animal welfare concerns, we have had a substantial amount of feedback suggesting that the experience itself is quite uncomfortable due to the pushy nature of the vendors and local suppliers outside the site. While we recommend that you do not use the horse and carriage to visit the Temple, the decision is ultimately up to you. Edfu is an included port stop on the Nile River cruise schedule.

Day 6 Edfu Kom Ombo Aswan

Today we will moor near Edfu – home to ancient settlements and temples, as well as a bustling town centre and a bazaar.

Later we'll return to the boat where we’ll continue travelling upriver, with plenty of free time for relaxing on the sundeck and taking in the surrounding sights – from fishermen casting nets and farmers working their land to the desert hills that frame the lush riverbanks.

This afternoon we'll arrive at Kom Ombo Temple. Set dramatically on the bank of the Nile, 47 kilometres north of Aswan and 168 kilometres south of Luxor, the soaring, chunky columns of the double temple are a magnificent sight to behold as you arrive from the river.

Dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris, the temple's finely carved reliefs give a sense of this area's prominence as capital over the surrounding region during the Ptolemaic era. Today, Kom Ombo may be a sleepy agricultural backwater surrounded by sugar cane fields, but its prime position along the Nile meant it was once one of Upper Egypt's most important centres. Wander through the temple's colonnades, gazing up at scenes of kingly propaganda, and you'll get a sense of this rich history for yourself.

Return to the cruise boat where you’ll continue travelling upriver towards Aswan.

Please note: the only mode of transport available to visit the Temple of Edfu is by locally managed horses and carriages. As a business that seeks to promote responsible travel, animal welfare is extremely important to us at Inspiring Vacations, and unfortunately, some operators of the horse and carriages have been found to be in breach of our animal welfare guidelines. It is for this reason we do not include the visit the Edfu Temple. While we recommend that you do not use the horse and carriage to visit the Temple, the decision is ultimately up to you and your guide can help arrange transport and ensure the best horses are used.

Day 7 Aswan Abu Simbel Aswan

Today you will awake before sunrise for an early morning start. Sit back and relax as you drive to the ancient Abu Simbel temples, near the southern Egyptian border. You will have an early arrival into Abu Simbel to view one of the most incredible sights you will see. The two enormous sandstone structures were built in the 1200s BCE by Ramses II to serve as lasting monuments to himself and his favourite wife Nefertari. The larger temple, dedicated to three major Egyptian deities, features four large statues of Ramses II on its façade, while the smaller temple is dedicated to the goddess of love, Hathor, with statues designed to embody Nefertari.

Set on the banks of the artificial Lake Nasser, the structures were once in danger of being flooded with the construction of the Aswan High Dam but were saved via an extensive project to cut the temples into pieces and move them to higher ground, where they are seen today.

On our return to Aswan the rest of the day is free for you to make your own discoveries.

This afternoon, we'll enjoy a sailboat ride around the Nile River islands in a traditional felucca (a small, traditional Egyptian sailboat).

Philae Temple is situated on an island just south of Aswan. It was built by the last dynasty of ancient Egypt, the Ptolemaic. The temple is dedicated to Isis - the goddess of healing, magic and birth, her husband Osiris and their son Horus.

Take a 20-minute drive from Aswan to the dock, where you will embark on a 20-minute boat ride to Agilkia Island, where the Philae Temple complex is located. You will have approximately 2 hours exploring the island and temple before returning to Aswan by boat and road vehicle. 

Start: pending Cairo to Aswan flight  Duration: 3 hours Inclusions: return transportation (boat and road vehicle) from Aswan to Agilkia Island, entrance into Philae Temple complex

Day 8 Aswan Cairo

Today we will leave Aswan and make the short flight back to Cairo. On our return to Cairo enjoy your free time relaxing or doing some last-minute sightseeing.

Sit down for a home-cooked meal with a local family. During this experience, you'll get to visit a local family and learn about Middle Eastern traditions, Egyptian culture and tasty food but most importantly, enjoy a delicious and authentic home cooked meal.

Start: confirmed on tour Duration: 3 hours Inclusions: return transportation, home cooked meal

Day 9 Cairo Amman

Today, say goodbye to your Egyptian tour leader and get ready for the next leg of your journey as you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Amman, Jordan. Welcome to Jordan, cosmopolitan and contemporary, yet steeped in biblical history. On arrival at Amman's Queen Alia International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. You will meet your Jordanian tour leader today.

Day 10 Amman Jerash Amman

After breakfast enjoy a tour of this capital city. Cosmopolitan and contemporary, yet steeped in ancient biblical history, Amman is a bit of a chameleon. Most of the city's historical sites are located downtown. Here we'll visit the Citadel, with remains from the Roman to the early Islamic period; the Jordan Archaeological Museum, which houses the oldest Neolithic statues dating from 8000 to 5000 NC, as well as other valuable artifacts; the souq, where we'll get an idea of everyday life; as well as the beautifully restored 2nd-century Roman Theatre.

Next we'll take a short drive (approximately one-hour) north to Jerash. Once one of the grandest ancient Roman cities in the world, Jerash now boasts some of the best Greco-Roman ruins around. Admire this site's striking collection of crumbling archways, theatres, baths, public buildings and colonnaded streets. Grand columns encircle the city's centrepiece, the Oval Plaza, a wonderfully atmospheric place to linger after exploring this ruined city's lasting riches.

Day 11 Amman Petra

Today marks the beginning of our journey towards the fabled site of Petra. En route we'll visit Madaba, an ancient market town that's home to a number of fine Byzantine mosaics, the most outstanding of which lies within Saint George's Greek Orthodox Church. Here, a map of the Holy Land once carpeted the whole floor, said to contain more than two million pieces. Crafted around 560 CE, a large swathe of this mosaic map can still be viewed, providing the oldest map of Palestine in existence.

Next we'll continue to the ancient village at Dana, on the edge of the Dana Biosphere Reserve, where local artisans sell silver jewellery.

Later, we'll drive along the King's Highway, up to Shobak Castle, sometimes known as Montreal. Perched at the top of a hill in the desert, this ancient Crusader castle was originally built to protect the eastern flank of the Latin Kingdom and its trade routes to the sea before it fell to Muslim sultan Saladin in 1189. Stroll the site and discover a small chapel, original gatehouse, and find out where a long, dark secret passage leads.

Day 12 Petra

Get ready for Petra! A firm fixture on most bucket lists for good reason – the jewel of Jordan is an arresting sight. The so-called Rose City boasts an impressive series of tombs, caves and temples hidden behind ornate façades carved directly into the rock. No one knows the exact date of this desert kingdom's creation, but the lost city of the Nabateans is believed to date as far back as the 2nd century CE. The city has lain empty and unknown for centuries, only rediscovered in 1812 by a Swiss explorer.

You'll feel just like Indiana Jones, as you meander through the narrow canyon known as the Siq; at times the path measures only a few metres wide, with walls soaring up to 180 metres on either side of you. It's easy to imagine the armies and merchants who made their way here many years ago, and the sense of awe they too must have felt upon reaching this ancient rock-hewn kingdom, surrounded by such a stark landscape. The Siq is the main entranceway to The Treasury – perhaps Petra's most iconic sight, and one of its most elaborate temples.

Petra's greatest surprise, however, is its size. With our guide we'll explore the old Roman road, the amphitheatre and several tombs. We'll also climb up to the beautiful façade of the Monastery, from where you will have a magnificent view of the entire site.

Exploring this truly extraordinary destination is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Day 13 Petra Wadi Rum

We continue to Wadi Rum and browse around the excellent and informative visitor's centre. We'll visit several of Wadi Rum's distinctive rock formations and soak in the vast silence, towering sandstone mountains and spectacular desert landscapes of this surreal 'Valley of the Moon', where, the wind-sculpted rock formations change in hue throughout the day.

We'll also meet with local Bedouins, who live in scattered camps throughout the area, and ride camels to our traditional Bedouin tent, situated deep within the valley. We'll enjoy an evening with them at one of their camps, savouring the hospitality of these nomadic peoples and the uninterrupted desert panoramas.

Wadi Rum is probably best known for its connection with the enigmatic British army officer TE Lawrence, who was based here during the Great Arab Revolt of 1917-18. Much of David Lean's movie on his exploits, Lawrence of Arabia , was actually filmed in this very region.

Please note - While we are sure that this experience will inspire you, please be aware that your stay will differ from that of a traditional hotel. There are no hotels in or near Wadi Rum: the only places to sleep are the numerous bedouin-run camps dotted around the desert. The camps that we use are quoted as being 'luxury' because their locations differ from other styles of camps and your tent will have its own ensuite. Even at the best and more 'luxurious' camps, bathroom facilities within the tents are somewhat rudimentary and the bedding can also be quite basic, however still offering you a comfortable nights' accommodation. All of your meals are included and will be served in a common social area. While we may not make it sound glamorous, it will be a unique and memorable experience.

Day 14 Wadi Rum Dead Sea Amman

After waking up in the unique environment of the luxury camp this morning, we'll enjoy a walk around the area before scaling one of the large dunes to enjoy sensational views of the surrounding area; keen photographers will be delighted. We'll then ride camels back across the Wadi Rum desert.

Later, we'll drive for approximately an hour and a half to reach a radically different landscape – the Dead Sea. We'll spend the afternoon on the shores of this famous body of water, named for the dearth of life in its waters. The saline water has a high density that keeps bathers buoyant and makes getting underneath the surface very difficult. Floating on the surface without any sort of lilo makes for a once in a lifetime experience. Afterwards we'll return to Amman for the evening.

Day 15 Amman Istanbul

Today, get ready for the next leg of your journey as you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Istanbul, Turkey. 

On arrival, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of your day is at leisure. 

Please note - today is unescorted. You will meet your Turkey tour leader and fellow travellers tomorrow prior to your Istanbul city tour.

Day 16 Istanbul

After a morning at leisure, enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, St Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace and the Hippodrome.

We follow in the footsteps of the city’s most famous ruler, Sultan Ahmed, and head to the district of Sultanahmet, within Istanbul's old city. The historic centre of Istanbul, here you'll explore the legacy of the Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

Take in the majesty of the sixth-century Hagia Sophia, whose stunning construction is said to have changed the history of architecture. When not erecting splendid buildings, the Byzantine Emperors loved a bit of entertainment and the Hippodrome of Constantinople was their stadium. Inspect some of the decorative statues and obelisks that remain, harking back to a time when this space would play host to thousands of chariot racing fans. Witness the majesty of the Blue Mosque before enjoying the evening at leisure to further explore Istanbul.

Day 17 Istanbul Ankara Cappadocia

After breakfast we drive towards the nation's capital, Ankara to visit Anitkabir, the Mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk before continuing on to the surreal landscape of Cappadocia.

Day 18 Cappadocia

Marvel at the lunar landscape of Cappadocia today as we visit the Goreme Valley Open Air Museum and the fairy chimneys, and explore the many levels of an underground city. Photo opportunities are everywhere so have your cameras ready! Tonight, don't miss the optional Turkish folklore evening featuring folklore and belly dancers... a night you won't forget!

Optional Tour: Hot Air Ballooning Early birds have the option of taking a hot air balloon over the surreal Cappadocian landscape. The scene at sunrise is sure to take your breath away. Please note, this activity can only be booked locally. Please speak to your tour leader on day one to organise this (approximate cost EUR200-300pp).

Day 19 Cappadocia Sultanhani Caravansary Konya

Leaving Cappadocia we head south, towards Konya, along the ancient Silk Road, visiting Sultanhani Caravansary, just as the ancient traders did. Once in Konya we tour the Mevlana Museum, the mausoleum of Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi and Alaeddin Mosque.

Day 20 Konya Sagalassos Pamukkale

Today we head for Pamukkale and it's calcium travertines. Along the way we visit the ancient site of Sagalassos. Conquered by Alexander the Great in 333 BC, earthquakes and plague saw its demise in 541-2. Today it is one of the best preserved sites in Turkey and is on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Day 21 Pamukkale Kusadasi

We head to the magnificent white calcium terraces, known as Travertines, in Pamukkale where we also tour the ancient city of Hierapolis. Take a dip, amongst ancient columns, in the hot springs that were used in Roman times for their therapeutic Powers.

Day 22 Kusadasi Ephesus Istanbul

Absorb yourself in history today with a guided tour of Ephesus and a visit to the site of the Temple of Artemis. Feel the mystical atmosphere of the ancient city and theatre before continuing to the former Greek village of Sirince, famous for its fruit wines. Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and at the carpet village we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value.

Day 23 Istanbul

Unfortunately, today marks the end of your incredible tour through Egypt, Jordan and Turkey.

At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

What's Included

• Incredible sightseeing, get up close to the spellbinding Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, marvel at the extraordinary city of Petra and uncover Turkey's ancient monuments
• Small group experience with no more than 20 travellers
• 14 nights in central 4 and 5-star accommodation
• Cruise the Nile on your floating home for 4 nights
• Stay overnight in a private tent in the Wadi Rum desert, gazing at the stars
• Spend two nights in a spectacular cave hotel in Cappadocia
• Overnight train from Cairo to Luxor in a twin share cabin
• Breakfast daily, 6 lunches, 11 dinners
• Fully escorted by an Egyptologist guide in Egypt and expert tour leaders in Jordan and Turkey
• Dedicated transportation and all rail tickets
• Airport transfers included on the last day of tour

Sightseeing Highlights

• Cairo – See the greatest iconic structures ever created by man, the spellbinding Pyramids and the Sphinx
• Cairo – Visit the Egyptian Museum to discover Egypt’s rich and fascinating history
• Luxor – Discover wonderfully-preserved reminders of the Pharaohs, like Karnak Temple, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon
• Luxor – Explore the spectacular royal burial site of the Valley of the Kings
• Kom Ombo – See the unusual double temple of Kom Ombo Temple
• Abu Simbel – Visit the imposing Temple of Ramses II, part of the UNESCO-listed Nubian Monuments
• Aswan – Enjoy a sailboat ride around the Nile River islands in a traditional felucca
• Amman – See the historic sights of Jordan’s capital, like the Citadel and the Jordan Archaeological Museum
• Jerash – See the Greco-Roman ruins, once one of the grandest ancient Roman cities in the world
• Petra – Experience the jewel of Jordan; with its impressive, beautiful ruins
• Wadi Rum – Ride camels through the desert and spend the night at a traditional Bedouin desert camp
• Dead Sea – Float on the surface of this natural wonder
• Istanbul - Uncover the grandeur of the incredible Blue Mosque
• Istanbul - Visit the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the amazing Hippodrome of Constantinople
• Ankara - Visit Antibakir, the mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk
• Ephesus - Explore Ephesus, arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world, which features the iconic Library of Celsus and a huge amphitheatre.
• Sirince - Witness a carpet weaving demonstration and explore this former Greek town.
• Pamukkale - Travese the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, and watch the sun set over this fascinating lunar landscape
• Pamukkale - Visit the ruins of Hierapolis and the ancient Roman baths that are said to date back to 190AD
• Cappadocia - Explore the out-of-this-world landscape of Cappadocia, walking among the fabled region's incredible fairy chimneys.
• Cappadocia - Tour the Derinkuyu underground city.

Book With Confidence

How to book & payments.

• Full payment due at the time of the booking.
• Please select this option at the payment page prior to finalizing your booking
• Book now and secure your package with only a $99.00 deposit per person.
• Pay a 2nd installment of $0.00 per person within 0 days.
• You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

Booking Process

• Select the purple 'Reserve Your Seat' tab to begin your booking (you must 'Sign Up' first by entering your email and creating a password)
• Then select the purple 'Book now' tab of the tour you have selected
• Select your Departure Date, Departure City, Number of Passengers, Room Configuration, any Upgrade Options, and enter any Special Requests
• Click the purple ‘Proceed to Secure Checkout' tab
• Enter your credit card or PayPal details to secure your deposit/payment. You may also pay via BPAY (not available within 70 days of departure)
• Once your order is complete, you will be prompted to complete a Booking Form so that we can fulfill your booking
• Your booking is confirmed once your Booking Form is submitted and you can begin the countdown to your Inspiring Vacation!

Flight Information

This package includes international airfares or has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city.

If international airfares are included this will be stated in the ‘Inclusions’ section

Alternatively, if international airfares can be added to your booking you will be able to select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’ and a cost will be stated next to your selected departure city. This cost will then be added to your booking and flights will be added to your booking. Conditions of flights for this package bookable by Inspiring Vacations:

• Flight Offer valid from select departure cities within the purchase path only
• Flights will be booked with the best available airline/s with luggage included. Low-cost carriers may be booked in conjunction with a full-service airline. Depending on the carrier, entertainment and meals may not be included but payable at an extra cost on-board. We cannot specify or guarantee the airline booked. If you would like a specific airline, please request this at the time of purchase. To make a flight request, please click ‘Book Now’ and select Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?  By selecting this option you will be sent a request form after completing your purchases to make your request. 
• Flights may not be direct and may include multiple connections
• Due to disrupted airline schedules globally with the pandemic, stopovers/transit times may be longer than usual (up to 12 hours in duration in some circumstances).
• Once ticketed, flights are non-refundable; any changes will be subject to the airline rules, Airline change fees and an Inspiring Vacations change fee of $250 per person.
• Full names as per passport (including all middle names) are required at the time of submitting your traveller booking form. Any error in the names submitted will be subject to an Inspiring Vacations name change fee of $150 plus any applicable fees charged by the airline, or the ticket may be non-refundable with the purchase of a new ticket required. 
• If the required booking class is unavailable at time of booking, surcharges may apply. Total cost is final only at time of ticketing. Once issued, air tickets are subject to amendment and cancellation fees or may be non-refundable
• Any airline schedule changes or cancellations are outside of our control. It is important that you, as the customer, stay up-to-date with the latest airline schedule information prior to your departure. If a schedule change results in extended transits or an earlier/later departure from your destination, any additional accommodation or alternative arrangements will be at the traveler's expense.
• After booking, the price payable may be subject to change as a result of factors beyond the control of Inspiring Vacations. Inspiring Vacations reserves the right to increase the price payable and this will be reflected on the customer's invoice. Increases may be in relation to, but not limited to, currency fluctuations, airline taxes, airfare increases and fuel surcharges.
• Internal airfares (where applicable and included in the itinerary) will be using a local carrier and may include low-cost carriers without meals or entertainment. Checked baggage will still be included for each passenger. Any additional baggage required is payable at time of check-in. 
• If you are travelling with another party on a separate booking, we cannot guarantee that the same flights will be booked for all parties, as this strictly depends on availability. 
• You will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters are not included. If travelling over the recommended amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable directly.
• In the event of that you no-show on your scheduled flight, please be aware the airline will require you to pay a no show fee, Airline reissue fee plus any additional airfare and taxes. Inspiring Vacations will also charge a $250 admin fee to assist re accommodating you on the next available flight. Please note that depending on the airline's policy, purchasing a new ticket may be required.

Included baggage differs based on your country of origin. Included baggage will be as per the following:

Baggage allowances provided by the airline might differ to the values stated above. However limitations are required due to transport storage restrictions on your selected tour or package.

Flight requests, amendments or preferences

We understand customers may wish to request changes to their included airfares. If you wish to fly with a certain airline, land at a certain time or change your flight in other ways we will gladly provide you with a personalised quote tailored to your specific requirements. To make a flight request, please click ‘Book Now’ and select Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?  By selecting this option you will be sent a request form after completing your purchase to make your request.

We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:

• Airline Preferences - You may wish to fly with a particular airline
• Cabin Preferences - These include upgrading to premium economy or business class
• Extensions (start and end cities must remain the same) - You may request to extend your stay pre or post tour.
• Meal Requests - You may request a specific meal for dietary requirements.
• Seat Requests - If you would like to request particular seating. However please note, not all airlines allow the selection of pre-purchased seat arrangements.

We are currently unable to provide a quote for the following requests:

• Stopovers - Is where you might want to stop in transit for a certain amount of days prior to your tour or after your tour.
• One way flights
• Different start or end city to the tour - you may not amend the arrival or departure city of your itinerary. 
• Around the world tickets  - Is when a ticket includes multiple stops in different continents.
• Return home to a different city from the one you departed.
• Frequent Flyer point redemption - Is when an airline allows you to redeem points to pay for your flights or upgrade your ticket.  

If we can’t fulfill your request and you still wish to proceed with the booking, please select Land Only (excluding UK customers). This will allow you to travel on the land portion of the package without the included airfares. You will then be able to arrange your own flights separately.

For more frequently asked questions please view our FAQs   section. 

Online check-in 

Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.

Important Information

Fitness Requirements While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

This particular tour is categorised as a “3”.

3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.

Tipping A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. You will be asked to provide tipping to your guide towards a ‘kitty’, which is then used towards the guide tipping for the services of helpers, hotel staff, restaurants and airport porterage. We suggest USD$5 (AUD$7 approx) per person per day towards the kitty. Please note that this tipping is not for the guide, merely for the guide to tip the services of the driver and local workers during your tour. While not made compulsory, if you choose not to contribute to the kitty it means that the guide is tipping for these services out of their own pocket. Your cooperation in this instance is most appreciated.

Tipping for your guide will be collected at the commencement or conclusion of their services in each country. To remove the uncertainty and stress of not knowing how much is appropriate to tip we recommend USD$6-8 (AUD$8-12 approx) per person per day. The amount you wish to contribute is dependent on the services received and at the complete discretion of the guest. Thank you for your understanding.

Accommodation The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control

Single Supplement Single supplement is $2,522.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.

Triple Share Not available.

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.

Visa & Passport information It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.

Most passport holders will require a visa to enter Egypt. You can choose to either pre-apply online with the Egyptian E-Visa system or obtain a visa on arrival.

Visas are easily attainable on arrival at Cairo airport for most nationalities. The visa costs USD25 and can only be paid in USD cash. On arrival to Cairo airport you buy your visa at any of the banks before proceeding to immigration.

You will be given a stamp that you then need to put into your passport yourself. A single-entry visa is valid for three months from date of issue and entitles the bearer to one month in Egypt. 

Egypt E-Visa You will be able to obtain your E-visa when you have all of your travel documents approximately 30-40 days prior to departure.

Visit  https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/  and create an account for yourself to then start the application process.

Information required:

• Visa type (tourist)
• Entry type (single)
• Arrival date and departure date (no specific flight details are required)
• Passport information
• You have to upload a JPEG (only supported file type) of your passport
• The name of the host/tour operator, phone number, email address and street address
• Pay USD $25pp by credit card

Wait for it to be approved and you will be notified via email within approximately 48 hours.

Once approved, please ensure that you travel with the following documentation as they are required to present to customs upon arrival into the country:

• Passport with 6 months validity
• E-visa printout
• Travel itinerary (provided 30 days before departure)
• Hotel list (provided 30 days before departure)

Jordan Your Jordanian visa is included as part of the tour package. You will receive your Jordanian visa on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport from our tour representative.

NOTE:  Our 12 Day Jordan & Israel Holy Lands Tour, does require you to arrange your own visa. You'll need a visa to visit Jordan. If you are visiting for tourism, you can get a single-entry visa valid for one month on arrival at the airports or at the Sheikh Hussein/North Border crossing at the Jordan/Israel border. Entry visas are not issued at the Wadi Araba/South Border crossing (Aqaba/Eilat) or the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge (the other crossing on the Jordan/Israel border).

Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy of Jordan for up-to-date information https://protocol.dfat.gov.au/Public/Missions/100.

Turkey Most nationalities require a visa to enter Turkey. Visas must be obtained through the e-Visa system. To apply for an e-visa, please go to https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ at least two weeks before you arrive in Turkey. This multiple entry e-Visa costs USD60 as is valid for 90 days. Please note, visa costs can change at any time and with little notice depending on the political climate of the region. We recommend all nationalities check with their local consulate or embassy as this information can change. Foreigners entering Turkey must carry a passport with at least 60 days validity beyond the expiry date of their visa. Inspiring Vacations is not responsible for delays or missed portions of the holiday package resulting from incorrect travel documents or visas, or for denial of entry for not having the appropriate visa or valid passport.

Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.

Tour Documentation Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.

Group Size 4-20 people.

Trip Style - Small Group Tour These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Enjoy choice features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.

Children Children must be 2 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.

Optional Tours

To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):

• Cairo city tour (Day 3) - $80 per person
• Optional Tour - Luxor Temple (Day 4) - $20 per person
• Visit to Philae Temple (Day 7) - $20 per person
• Cairo home-cooked meal (Day 8) - $90 per person

Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.

Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.

Flight Upgrade From Cairo

• Removal of overnight train from Cairo
• Additional night in Cairo hotel
• Flight from Cairo to Aswan/Luxor
• Airport transfers

Upgrade Costs

• International Airfares 
• Arrival airport transfers
• Travel insurance (recommended)
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses

What climate to expect

Click HERE for more information on the weather in Egypt.

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The appeal of these stunning sites is far from ancient history   1. The Pyramids of Giza Part of the Giza Necropolis – Egypt’s most-visited tourist attraction – are the three large Pyramids of Giza. The largest is the Great Pyramid of Giza – also known as the Pyramid of Khufu or the Pyramid of Cheops. A royal tomb stan...

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Egypt, a land of ancient wonders and rich culture, is a traveller's dream. But, when is the best time to go?     A trip to Egypt is like a voyage back in time. With ancient monuments, temples and landscapes that will simply blow your mind, Egypt is timeless, completely unique and absolutely unforgettable. There are tw...

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A practical guide to travel in Egypt, from tipping culture to independent touring

From packing tips to advice on haggling, here’s everything you need to know while planning your trip.

Whether you want to sail down the Nile on a felucca, explore ancient temples, browse the museums of Cairo or go trekking in Sinai, there are a few things to bear in mind when planning your trip to Egypt. Here’s what to be aware of when it comes to visas, tipping, guides and more.

Do I need a visa?

Almost all travellers, including visitors from the UK and the EU, need a visa to travel to Egypt. While it’s possible to get a visa on arrival, it saves time at the airport if you apply online in advance. A single-entry tourist visa costs US$25 (£20). If you plan to stay in the resort towns in Sinai for fewer than 15 days, you do not need a visa. Instead, you receive a ‘permission stamp’ in your passport when you land at Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport. While this option is a money saver, the list of places you’re permitted to visit is quite limited — even Ras Mohamed National Park at the southern tip of Sinai is off limits without the full visa.

What should I pack?

Egypt is a majority Muslim country, so it’s respectful for travellers to dress modestly. For all genders, this means covering everything between your shoulders and knees. You will likely be asked to cover up more if you visit a mosque or church.

The tap water is not safe to drink here so bring a water bottle with a filter, such as those from Lifestraw .

Wi-fi ranges from infuriatingly slow to nonexistent across the country, even at five-star hotels. Get mobile data through your service provider at home or buy an Egyptian SIM card when you land at the airport.

Can I pay by card in Egypt?

Cash reigns supreme but you can use a card at some higher-end hotels and restaurants. Take some Egyptian pounds out of a cash machine when you arrive, but be mindful of the fluctuating exchange rate and don’t take more out than you need. For bigger expenses, consider bringing US dollars, the most — and sometimes only — accepted foreign currency.

Tipping, called baksheesh, infiltrates almost every interaction you’ll have. It’s customary to tip nearly everyone you come in contact with, even for services you don’t want or require. Keep small change on hand for toilet attendants, porters, mosque caretakers and guards at temples and tombs.

Should I join a tour or travel independently?

Egypt has been a package-tour destination since the days of Thomas Cook, who first led a group to Egypt in 1869. The country is well set up for tour groups, and many first-time visitors find this option easiest, with guides and transport logistics arranged for you. Egypt’s historic sites have little signage, making a tour guide a necessity for deeper understanding.

Nile cruises generally run between Luxor and Aswan in both directions, but a few make the long journey from Cairo. Trains, planes and buses connect cities along the Nile, and buses or internal flights can take you to the Red Sea coast.

For Hungry Minds

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Hamas says it agreed to a cease-fire proposal; Israel strikes Rafah and says deal ‘far from’ meeting its demands

Coverage on this live blog has ended. Follow live updates here.

What to know

• Hamas said in a statement that it has agreed to a cease-fire proposal, but Israel said that the deal was "far from" its requirements and that it would push ahead with a Rafah operation and send a delegation to talks.
• The White House said it was reviewing the Hamas statement, which follows days of talks brokered by the U.S., Qatar and Egypt for a deal that would secure the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners.
• The Israeli military said it was striking Hamas targets in Rafah, hours after it urged 100,000 people to leave the city and move to what it said is an expanded humanitarian area in the Palestinian enclave.
• The evacuation of eastern Rafah, which Israel says is "limited" and "temporary," comes ahead of an expected ground assault on the southern Gaza city , where more than 1.4 million civilians are sheltering.

Biden meets with Jordan’s King Abdullah II, discusses need for ‘sustainable’ cease-fire

Phil Helsel

President Joe Biden met with Jordan’s King Abdullah II today as the two leaders “discussed the latest developments in Gaza and affirmed their commitment to work together towards an enduring end to the crisis,” the White House said.

The king was in Washington, D.C., and met with Biden at the White House. The pair stressed the need for an immediate release of hostages held by Hamas, as well as "a sustainable ceasefire that allows for a surge of the urgently needed humanitarian assistance to be delivered safely through Gaza,” the White House said in a statement.

“Both remain committed to achieving a durable, lasting peace to include a pathway to a Palestinian state, with security guarantees for Israel,” it said.

U.N. human rights chief calls evacuation order in Rafah 'inhumane'

The United Nations human rights chief today called Israel’s call for around 100,000 people to evacuate from Rafah inhumane and destined to cause even more suffering.

“This is inhumane. It runs contrary to the basic principles of international humanitarian and human rights laws, which have the effective protection of civilians as their overriding concern,” U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk said in a statement .

“Forcibly relocating hundreds of thousands from Rafah to areas which have already been flattened and where there is little shelter and virtually no access to humanitarian assistance necessary for their survival is inconceivable. It will only expose them to more danger and misery,” he said.

Israel warned 100,000 people in Rafah in southern Gaza to leave as it continues military operations in its war against Hamas, which has displaced Gaza’s population and, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza, resulted in more than 30,000 deaths.

A main military offensive has not begun, but Israel's military said Monday local time that it was "conducting targeted strikes against Hamas terror targets in eastern Rafah in southern Gaza."

Israel's military told people in Rafah to move to what it said is an expanded humanitarian area.

Protesters say they’ve occupied building at Rhode Island School of Design

A group opposed to the war in Gaza said tonight that they have “occupied” a building at the Rhode Island School of Design and barricaded the second floor.

RISD Students for Justice in Palestine said 24 students and community members began sitting in the Providence Washington building at the school in Providence and then barricaded the second floor.

As in demonstrations at Columbia University in New York City, they renamed the building.

They are demanding “total fiscal transparency of RISD’s investment portfolio” and divestment, as well as that school President Crystal Williams “publicly condemns the Israeli Occupation of Gaza as a genocide.”

RISD said that a group of students was protesting in one of its buildings and that Williams and the provost were meeting with them.

“We have and continue to affirm our students’ right to freedom of expression, freedom of speech, and peaceful assembly. RISD condemns violence and injustice, and we decry antisemitism, Islamophobia and all forms of hate,” the school said in a statement tonight. “The wellbeing of all of our students has been and remains our top priority, and we continue to support all members of our community.”

Williams has said that the school has previously adopted an "environmental, social, and governance” policy for investments and that "our investment portfolio is overwhelmingly aligned with our stated values and the concerns shared with us by RSJP," the protest group.

"RISD is simply in a very different investment position than many other institutions nationwide where students are protesting," Williams said.

The school has an enrollment of around 2,500.

France and China presidents say ‘lasting cease-fire' needed to protect Gazans

French President Emmanuel Macron and Chinese President Xi Jinping today called for all sides to protect civilians and opposed Israel’s military operation in Rafah.

“The two heads of state marked their opposition to an Israeli offensive on Rafah, which would lead to a humanitarian catastrophe on a new scale, as well as to any forced displacement of Palestinian civilians,” the two leaders said in a statement put out by France’s government.

“The two heads of state stressed that an immediate and lasting cease-fire is urgently needed to allow the large-scale delivery of humanitarian aid and the protection of civilians in the Gaza Strip,” they said in the statement.

Both also called for the “immediate and unconditional release” of hostages.

Remembrance events were held around the world in honor of the 6 million Jews who were murdered in the Holocaust. Survivor Susan Kalev shares her family’s story and why she believes the message to never forget is more important than ever.

Qatari delegation to resume indirect negotiations in Cairo

A Qatari delegation will head to Cairo tomorrow to resume indirect talks between Hamas and Israel in the hope of bringing about a cease-fire in Gaza, Qatar’s Foreign Affairs Ministry said.

The ministry in a statement said that its spokesperson Majed bin Mohammed al-Ansari made the announcement to the Qatar News Agency.

He expressed “the State of Qatar’s hope that the talks will culminate in reaching an agreement for an immediate and permanent cease-fire in the Gaza Strip, and the exchange of prisoners and detainees, and the sustainable flow of humanitarian aid into all areas of the Strip.”

Strikes in Rafah do not appear to be the major military action in region, U.S. official says

The White House is monitoring the reports of tonight’s strikes in Rafah, according to a U.S. official.

The official says that this does not appear to be the major military operation into densely populated areas that the administration was worried about.

So far, it appears to be a targeted tactical operation, this official said. But the White House is watching how it plays out.

Rapper Macklemore announces single "Hind's Hall" to raise funds for UNRWA

Doha Madani

Rapper Macklemore announced a single called "Hind's Hall," a reference to Columbia University's protest, that will raise money for the United Nations' agency for Palestinian refugees.

This appears to be the first song released by a famous American musician to denounce the siege on Gaza, though other artists have released songs about the war. A snippet released to Instagram today praises the pro-Palestinian protesters on campuses across the country and called for a cease-fire, as well as Palestinian liberation.

At one point, Macklemore denounces the conflation of anti-Zionism with antisemitism, rapping that he sees Jews at protests screaming, “Free Palestine."

"What if you were in Gaza? What if those were your kids?" he raps. "If the West was pretending that you didn't exist you want the world to stand up and the students finally did."

He accused President Joe Biden of having blood on his hands, saying, "we can see it all and f---- no, I'm not voting for you in the fall."

Gantz says no stone will go unturned in effort to bring hostages home

Yarden Segev

Israeli Minister Benny Gantz vowed that the country's leaders will continue to work to bring the remaining hostages in Gaza home as the country exerts military pressure on Rafah and Hamas says it is on board with a deal framework.

Gantz released a statement through his Telegram page, saying the negotiating team is reviewing Hamas' response to a framework deal to release captives, though he accused the group of not corresponding to "the dialogue that has taken place so far with the mediators."

"Despite this, we continue to turn over every stone and a delegation will go to Cairo," Gantz said. "Every decision will be brought to the War Cabinet — there will be no political consideration."

He went on to describe Rafah military operations as "an integral part" of the country's efforts to bring the hostages home.

U.N. chief calls on Israel and Hamas to go the 'extra mile'

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is urging both Israeli and Hamas leadership to "go the extra mile needed to make an agreement come true and stop the present suffering."

Guterres' office released a statement today noting that he is deeply concerned about a possible large-scale operation in Rafah and urged the parties to act to protect civilian life.

"We are already seeing movements of people — many of these people are in desperate humanitarian condition and have been repeatedly displaced," the statement said. "They search safety that has been so many times denied."

The U.N. chief also posted to X, saying the protection of civilians is "paramount" to international law.

Pulitzer Board gives special citation to journalists covering the war in Gaza

The Pulitzer Board, which honors special achievements in journalism and the arts, awarded a special citation honoring journalist and media workers covering Gaza.

"Under horrific conditions, an extraordinary number of journalists have died in the effort to tell the stories of Palestinians and others in Gaza," the board said in a statement.

The board went on to acknowledge the loss of not just journalists but also poets and writers who became casualties of war.

"As the Pulitzer Prizes honor categories of journalism, arts, and letters, we mark the loss of invaluable records of the human experience," the board said.

U.S. does not support Rafah offensive as 'currently envisioned' by Israel, State Department says

Abigail Williams

The U.S. cannot support an intensified military operation in Rafah, as it is "currently envisioned by Israel," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters today.

"We have made clear, the secretary has made this clear in his conversations with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other members of the Israeli government last week, that we have not seen a humanitarian plan that is credible and implementable," Miller said.

Miller added that the U.S. believes a military operation in Rafah would put the lives of more than 1 million Palestinian civilians at risk. He also spoke briefly about the news that Hamas has agreed to a potential hostage release deal, saying they have only recently received Hamas' response for review.

"We continue to believe that a hostage deal is in the best interests of the Israeli people," Miller said. "It’s in the best interest of the Palestinian people and it would bring increased movement of humanitarian assistance and so we’re going to continue to work to try to reach one."

IDF conducting strikes in east Rafah after PM's office vowed to continue with operation

The Israel Defense Forces were conducting strikes on "Hamas terror targets in eastern Rafah," it said in a statement posted to X a little while ago.

No additional details were available. The statement came shortly after Netanyahu's office vowed to continue with the Rafah operation following Hamas' announcement that it had accepted a cease-fire proposal.

Earlier today, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari told civilians to stay in the designated humanitarian zones for the rest of the night. He also told those in eastern Rafah to move either to Al-Mawasi or Khan Younis.

"There they will receive a full humanitarian response, where water, food, medical equipment and shelter will be provided," Hagari said.

Israel says it will send a delegation to work on cease-fire proposal but continue with Rafah operation

Raf Sanchez

TEL AVIV — Israel's War Cabinet has "unanimously decided" to continue operations in Rafah to exert military pressure on Hamas while sending a delegation to work on a cease-fire deal, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said.

"Although the Hamas proposal is far from Israel's necessary requirements, Israel will send a delegation of working-class mediators to exhaust the possibility of reaching an agreement under conditions acceptable to Israel," Netanyahu's office said in a statement.

Hamas agreed to its interpretation of a deal endorsed by the U.S. and is trying to pressure Israel, source says

Richard Engel NBC News Chief Foreign Correspondent, Host of MSNBC's "On Assignment with Richard Engel"

JERUSALEM — Egyptian, Qatari and Hamas officials have been working intensively over the past week based on a deal Israel proposed which was endorsed by the U.S., a senior Arab diplomat told NBC News.

This was the same deal Secretary of State Antony Blinken described as very generous when he visited the region last week to push for an agreement. The issue, however, was that after Blinken praised the deal Netanyahu didn’t send a negotiator to the talks. 

Without the Israelis there, Hamas agreed to its own terms and its own interpretation of the deal, the diplomat said. The diplomat believes that the group's unilateral acceptance of the deal is a pressure tactic.

“What we got from Hamas was a result of tireless efforts nonstop for the last 48 hours and a significant movement on Hamas original position,” the diplomat said, saying it was unclear how Netanyahu will react.

Hamas and the negotiators believed Netanyahu was trying to escape from any deal and push ahead with a military invasion of Rafah. The Arab diplomat said that if Israel isn’t happy with the terms Hamas agreed to, Netanyahu can send a negotiator to seal the deal.

Hostage families say Hamas announcement 'must pave the way' to release deal

Paul Goldman

The families of hostages in Gaza said Hamas' announcement that it is willing to accept a proposal "must pave the way for the return of the 132 hostages held captive," according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.

"Now is the time for all that are involved, to fulfill their commitment and turn this opportunity into a deal for the return of all the hostages," the group said in a statement.

Hamas agrees to a three-phased hostage deal proposal over six weeks, source says

Ayman Mohyeldin

The proposal that Hamas said it agreed to is a three-phased hostage release that would play out over six weeks and would include a halt in military operations, an Arab official familiar with the deal said.

The source said the proposal does not use the word “cease-fire” but “the permanent halt to Israeli military operations and hostilities in Gaza.” There would be a release of one Israeli hostage for 33 Palestinian prisoners based on seniority of detention in Israeli prison, the source said.

Each phase encompasses the return of Israeli hostages from eldest, women, sick and finally soldiers.

It’s not yet clear if Israel has accepted this proposal, although it was the framework the U.S. had presented as acceptable to the Israelis. The source also added that this is a complex deal that is not yet done.

Biden administration reviewing Hamas' response

Gabe Gutierrez

A senior administration official says the White House is reviewing Hamas’ response to the cease-fire proposal. 

Right now, President Biden is meeting with King Abdullah II of Jordan at the White House.

Peter Jeary

Palestinians in eastern Rafah have been urged to evacuate and move to Al-Mawasi, an Israeli-declared humanitarian zone near the coast.

Video shows what that area looks like.

Israel reviewing cease-fire proposal, source says

TEL AVIV — An Israeli official says the proposal Hamas has agreed to is not the framework that was agreed upon with mediators.

Israel is examining the proposal Hamas has agreed to and will respond, the source said.

Hamas announced today that it has agreed to a cease-fire proposal in a call to Qatari and Egyptian mediators but did not detail the terms of the agreement. The news comes the same day Israel ordered evacuations from Rafah, seemingly in preparation for intensified military operations in the border city.

Israeli defense minister said Rafah operations needed with lack of alternatives

Andrea Mitchell

Israel Defense Minister Yoav Gallant spoke to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin earlier today and told Austin that military action is required, including in the area of Rafah, over a lack of alternative options, according to Gallant's office.

"Hamas continues to conduct attacks on the State of Israel and its citizens, while also indicating a lack of seriousness in regard to the frameworks that were submitted for the release of hostages," Gallant's office said in a statement.

Austin was informed about an attack on a military area near the Kerem Shalom crossing, which Hamas claimed responsibility for, over the weekend. Gallant also thanked Austin for U.S. support.

White House halted large shipment of deadly weapons to Israel last week

Carol E. Lee Carol E. Lee is the Washington managing editor.

Courtney Kube

The White House halted a large shipment of offensive weapons to Israel last week, as the Israel Defense Forces are ramping up for a ground invasion of Rafah, according to two senior administration officials familiar with the decision.

The shipment included 2,000-pound bombs and other ammunition that would likely be used in Rafah, the officials said. Israel already has a large arsenal, making the halt unlikely to stop an offensive.  

The officials say the move does not indicate a larger change in policy about providing weapons to Israel, but it has been very rare for the U.S. to withhold weapons and equipment to Israel because of concerns over how they could be used.

The White House did not respond to a request for comment. Axios was first to report the shipment being halted.

Hamas says it agrees to cease-fire deal

Ammar Cheikh Omar

Hamas announced in a statement today that the head of its political bureau has agreed to a cease-fire proposal.

The statement noted that Ismail Haniyeh informed Qatari and Egyptian mediators of its approval in a phone call today.

Israeli officials have not yet released a statement on the matter.

University of Texas senior speaks out about arrest at protest

Daniella Silva

A graduating senior at the University of Texas at Austin described rough treatment from police as she was arrested during a recent protest against the war in Gaza with other students. 

Anne-Marie Jardine, 22, said she was participating in an “incredibly peaceful” protest on April 24 when law enforcement officers arrived to arrest them. Jardine said she was released the next day after being booked on allegations of trespassing, but charges were never filed.

Jardine said multiple law enforcement agencies were present during the arrests.

She said she was standing with her arms locked with a friend when police hit the protesters with their bicycles. Several officers grabbed Jardine: “[They] threw me to the ground” and “dragged me by the hair and my arm,” she said.

Jardine said her injuries included a sprained neck, arm and lower back, as well as cuts and bruises. 

“I got hit in the stomach with the baton,” she said. “We had no idea that we were going to be met with this much violence.” 

The president of the University of Texas at Austin said in a statement that April 24 was a “challenging day for many.”

“The protesters tried to deliver on their stated intent to occupy campus,” Jay Hartzell said. “People not affiliated with UT joined them, and many ignored University officials’ continual pleas for restraint and to immediately disperse. The University did as we said we would do in the face of prohibited actions.”

Jardine said she believes the growing protests across college campuses have reached “a turning point.”

“The main goal or message has always been divest from death," she said. "Also, we want to bring awareness as to what’s happening and then you need to get as many people educated on it as possible, because ultimately, there’s no way to try to excuse genocide.”

Biden updates Netanyahu on hostage talks, makes position 'clear' on Rafah

President Joe Biden "reiterated his clear position on Rafah" on a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to a readout from the White House today.

There were no additional details on the conversation regarding Rafah, though Biden's administration has stated many times that it believes there would be devastating humanitarian consequences to intensified operations there.

Netanyahu agreed to ensure the Kerem Shalom crossing is open for humanitarian needs after an attack on an adjacent military compound prompted the crossing's closure over the weekend.

Biden also updated Netanyahu on "efforts to secure a hostage deal, including through ongoing talks today in Doha, Qatar."

The two leaders also acknowledged Holocaust Remembrance Day and the 6 million Jews who were targeted and murdered during "one of the darkest chapters in human history."

Students in Britain start encampments at Oxford and Cambridge

Inspired by recent protests in the U.S., students at the storied Cambridge and Oxford universities have set up encampments on campus.

The pro-Palestinian movement that began at Columbia University and swept campuses across the U.S. has inspired some international schools to demand their institutions divest from weapons manufacturers and cut ties to Israel.

A group called Cambridge for Palestine posted on social media what it said were the university's investments showing how it collaborates with "the Zionist project of ethnically cleansing Palestine."

A similar thread was posted by Oxford Action for Palestine, which included in its list of demands that the university divest from arms companies and invest in the rebuilding of Palestinian territories. The group released a statement announcing its encampment , saying it was the evolution of months of demonstrations, petitions and "all possible efforts to work with the Administration."

"Palestinian liberation concerns all of us," the statement said. "As we all bear witness, we are compelled to act. We are members of an institution that makes this suffering possible."

Both universities responded to the encampments, acknowledging the rights of student and staff to engage in peaceful protest, according to Sky News , and asked that environments remain respectful.

Displaced teachers set up tent school in Rafah

Airstrikes are frequent, drones buzz constantly overhead and an Israeli ground invasion looms large. But on a small patch of sandy wasteland on the outskirts of Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah, a group of teachers has set up classrooms in tents, determined to continue educating as war rages around them.

“This magnificent scene sends a message to the world: We are a nation that loves to learn and loves education, that rejects ignorance,” Nehad Badria, the principal, said in an address to students last week as they lined up outside the tents.

The students, all girls ages 6 to 15, listened intently before Badria led them in call-and-response chants. “We love to learn,” they shouted, pumping their fists in the air. “We are free, Arab Palestine.”

Set up to serve some of the tens of thousands of children displaced by the fighting in Gaza, the school is named Al Awdah, which means “return” in Arabic, a nod to the hope that students and teachers can one day return to their homes in other parts of the enclave.

Read the full story here.

World leaders warn Rafah offensive is 'massacre' in the making

Leaders in the Middle East and Europe raised the alarm again over an intensified operation in Rafah, warning that already catastrophic humanitarian conditions will worsen.

Ayman Safadi, Jordan's foreign minister, wrote in a post on X that an operation in the southern border city would be an "indelible stain" on the international community. He said "another massacre of the Palestinians is in the making" and that everyone must act to prevent it.

Egypt's foreign ministry warned that the "escalatory action" puts the lives of more than 1 million Palestinians sheltering in Rafah at risk.

"Egypt calls on Israel to exercise the utmost restraint and avoid further escalation at this extremely sensitive time in the process of ceasefire negotiations and to spare the blood of Palestinian civilians who have been exposed to an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe since the start of the war on the Gaza Strip," the ministry said in a statement.

The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, said that today's evacuation orders signify the worst to come, "more war and famine." Borrell urged Israel to renounce a ground offensive and urged international leaders to act.

According to France 24 , the French foreign ministry reiterated its opposition to an intensified Rafah invasion.

"The forced displacement of a civilian population constitutes a war crime," the ministry said in a statement.

Rafah offensive will not be a ‘picnic’ for Israeli forces, Hamas warns

Chantal Da Silva

A Hamas official has warned that any military operation in Rafah will "not be a picnic" for Israeli forces.

Izzat Al-Rishq said in a statement that a military offensive in the city, where more than a million people have taken refuge, would also put any negotiations for a cease-fire deal "in jeopardy."

"And it will not be a picnic for the enemy army, and Netanyahu and his government bear full responsibility," Al-Rishq said.

Biden to speak with Netanyahu this morning to discuss Rafah

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden will speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this morning to discuss the potential ground assault on Rafah, according to a National Security Council spokesperson.

An Israeli official also confirmed the two will speak today.

“We can’t speak for IDF operations. We have made our views clear on a major ground invasion of Rafah to the Israeli government, and the president will speak with the prime minister today," an NSC spokesperson said.

"We continue to believe that a hostage deal is the best way to preserve the lives of the hostages, and avoid an invasion of Rafah, where more than a million people are sheltering. Those talks are ongoing now," the spokesperson added.

Columbia cancels universitywide commencement ceremony after weeks of protests on campus

Antonia Hylton

Mirna Alsharif

Marlene Lenthang

Columbia will replace its universitywide commencement ceremony May 15 with “smaller-scale, school-based celebrations,” university officials announced today,   after weeks of pro-Palestinian and counterprotests on campus.

The Ivy League school said the decision was made after discussions with student leaders. Security concerns were a main reason behind the decision, a university official told NBC News.

Evacuation orders could be start of 'nightmare scenario,' aid group tells NBC News

Israel's calls for Palestinians in eastern Rafah to evacuate the area to Al-Mawasi, just north of the city, marks "the start of the nightmare scenario that we've been dreading for months," warned Samah Hadid, a spokesperson for the Norwegian Refugee Council.

"We’ve been warning against a military operation in Rafah because the consequences will be deadly and devastating for the over 1 million IDPs in the area," Hadid said in a phone interview with NBC News this morning, using the acronym for internally displaced persons.

Hadid said her organization not only fears for the safety of those who remain in Rafah, but also for those who evacuate to the Al-Mawasi area, which she said she does not believe is equipped to handle a mass influx of people. "It doesn't have the humanitarian services and assistance that’s required to accommodate such a large number of displaced people so it’s ... for us, it’s impossible for this area to be designated as a safe area or a humanitarian zone," she said.

Calling on the Biden administration to "use its influence and leverage over Israel" to stop any possible military operation in Rafah, Hadid said: "It is beyond time for the U.S. government to suspend its arms sales" and military aid to Israel.

Israel orders Al Jazeera to close its local operation and seizes some of its equipment

The Associated Press

Israel ordered the local offices of Qatar’s Al Jazeera satellite news network to close yesterday, escalating a long-running feud between the broadcaster and Netanyahu’s hard-line government as the Doha-mediated cease-fire negotiations with Hamas hang in the balance.

The extraordinary order, which includes confiscating broadcast equipment, preventing the broadcast of the channel’s reports and blocking its websites, is believed to be the first time Israel has ever shuttered a foreign news outlet operating in the country.

Al Jazeera went off Israel’s main cable and satellite providers in the hours after the order. However, its website and multiple online streaming links still operated yesterday.

“Al Jazeera reporters harmed Israel’s security and incited against soldiers,” Netanyahu said in a statement. “It’s time to remove the Hamas mouthpiece from our country.”

Al Jazeera issued a statement vowing it will “pursue all available legal channels through international legal institutions in its quest to protect both its rights and journalists, as well as the public’s right to information.”

“Israel’s ongoing suppression of the free press, seen as an effort to conceal its actions in the Gaza Strip, stands in contravention of international and humanitarian law,” the network said. “Israel’s direct targeting and killing of journalists, arrests, intimidation and threats will not deter Al Jazeera.”

Palestinians, forced to move again, fear Rafah assault is imminent

JERUSALEM — Palestinians are being forced to move once again, and they are increasingly convinced that an Israeli operation in Rafah is coming.

This time, in an unprecedented move, they're being forced out of the city of Rafah along the Egyptian border where more than 1 million Palestinians are taking shelter because they were told it would be safe there.

They were told to get out of the way to allow for new Israeli military operations against Hamas and instructed to go to another area on the Mediterranean coast, which Israel designated as a not-quite-safe but safer zone.

Civilians pack their lives into vehicles in Rafah

Max Butterworth

Displaced Palestinians were packing their belongings into vehicles this morning as they prepared to flee Rafah following an evacuation order by the Israeli military.

Netanyahu delivers fiery speech as Israel honors Holocaust victims

JERUSALEM — This morning, Israelis stopped for two minutes of silence to remember the six million Jews butchered by the Nazis and their allies during World War II.

The moment of contemplation came a day after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected international pressure to halt the war in Gaza in a fiery speech.

“If Israel is forced to stand alone, Israel will stand alone,” he said yesterday, amid calls for restraint from a growing chorus of world leaders who have criticized the heavy toll caused by Israel’s military offensive against Hamas in Gaza.

His message was delivered in a setting that typically avoids politics on one of the most solemn dates on the country’s calendar.

“I say to the leaders of the world: No amount of pressure, no decision by any international forum will stop Israel from defending itself,” he said, speaking in English. “Never again is now.”

Hamas says Rafah evacuation order a ‘dangerous escalation' as two sides trade blame with talks stalled

Israel's order for Palestinians to evacuate eastern Rafah is a "dangerous escalation that will have consequences," a senior Hamas official warned this morning.

The official, Sami Abu Zuhri, told the Reuters news agency that the U.S. also "bears responsibility for this terrorism," in an apparent reference to Washington's support for Israel.

Meanwhile, Israel accused the militant group of having “sabotaged” a possible cease-fire deal.

In a statement released this morning, the Israeli prime minister's office appeared to strike out at comments from top Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh yesterday accusing Israel of torpedoing efforts to reach a deal.

“The claim that Prime Minister Netanyahu and not Hamas is the one who sabotaged the hostage release deal is a complete lie and a deliberate deception of the public,” the statement said. “The truth is completely the opposite. Hamas is the one that sabotages every deal by not moving a millimeter from its extreme demands that no government in Israel can accept.”

NBC News sees families begin to evacuate eastern Rafah after IDF order

Video captured by NBC News' crew on the ground in Gaza this morning showed families leaving eastern Rafah, with their few possessions in tow.

Cars and trucks could be seen driving away from the area, their roofs loaded with stacked mattresses, rolled-up blankets and other necessities.

Some could be seen walking, carrying backpacks and hauling large plastic bags on their backs. Other families were just beginning to pack, filling the trunks of their cars with suitcases and boxes.

The city has been crowded with people for months, many of them displaced from elsewhere in Gaza after fleeing the Israeli military's assault further north in the Palestinian enclave.

Cease-fire talks have not completely collapsed, sources tell NBC News

JERUSALEM — Talks to secure a new cease-fire between Israel and Hamas have not completely collapsed, two regional sources told NBC News this morning.

A senior Arab negotiator directly involved in the talks with Israel and the United States said that the negotiations are not over and have not collapsed, so it is not yet clear when or whether a major Rafah operation could begin.

And an Israeli official also said the talks have not completely collapsed, adding that the fact CIA Director William Burns is in the country is an indication that there are still ongoing discussions. Burns was in the Qatari capital, Doha, for talks on the subject yesterday.

Hamas negotiators left the Egyptian capital, Cairo, without an agreement on a new deal to secure the release of hostages still held in Gaza and pause the fighting.

The IDF's order this morning for civilians to evacuate parts of Rafah had only added to the concern that a deal may be falling apart.

Richard Engel reported from Jerusalem, and Raf Sanchez from Tel Aviv.

Rafah evacuation comes after 4 IDF soldiers killed at Kerem Shalom crossing

Israel's call for Palestinians to evacuate eastern Rafah come a day after Israeli soldiers were killed in a Hamas "rocket and mortar barrage" toward the Kerem Shalom crossing, according to the IDF.

The crossing for delivering badly needed aid to Gaza was closed overnight and this morning the IDF said the number of soldiers killed had risen to four following the strike.

The IDF noted that it carried out a "counterstrike" in response to the assault and in a later news release said fighter jets struck "terror targets" in the area of Rafah from which projectiles were launched. It said a sniper post, a military structure and terrorist infrastructure were among the targets.

Video captured by NBC News' crew on the ground showed people gathering around a home Palestinians said was targeted in a strike last evening. Witnesses said several people were killed, including children, with video shot by NBC News' crew appearing to show the bodies of at least two children.

NBC News has reached out to the IDF for comment. Israeli officials have not stated any connection between the Kerem Shalom attack and today's Rafah activity.

IDF says evacuation of eastern Rafah is a 'limited scope operation' but questions remain

The evacuation of parts of eastern Rafah is a "limited scope operation," IDF spokesperson Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani said in a briefing this morning.

Referencing a map outlining the areas Palestinians have been urged to evacuate, he said the development did not represent a "wide-scale evacuation." Israel has also described the evacuation as "temporary."

He further noted that Israel had expanded the "humanitarian area" in which people can seek refuge in Al-Mawasi, saying that effort included "field hospitals, tents, increased quantities of food, water, medicines and additional supplies." Shoshani said the amount of aid entering Gaza would also not change in the coming days.

But it is not clear how or when those being urged to flee Rafah would be able to return to the city, which many have only made their home after being displaced from elsewhere in the enclave. And many Gazans will fear that this could be just the beginning of a broader effort to clear civilians from a city that Israel has long been signaling it plans to assault with troops on the ground.

Rafah assault would be 'devastating for 1.4 million people,’ UNRWA says 

An assault on Rafah by Israeli forces would be "devastating for 1.4 million people," UNRWA has warned.

The United Nations' aid agency for Palestinians said in a post on X that an offensive in the southern city, where more than half of Gaza's population has sought shelter amid the war, would "mean more civilian suffering & deaths."

UNRWA said that its team in Rafah would not be evacuating the area and that the agency would maintain a presence in the city "as long as possible & will continue providing lifesaving aid to people."

Israel tells U.S. it has ‘no alternative’ to Rafah military action

Israel's defense minister told his U.S. counterpart in their exchange yesterday that his country had been left with "no alternative" but to launch an operation in Rafah.

Yoav Gallant said that Hamas was refusing any offer that would allow a deal for a cease-fire and release of hostages who remain held in Gaza, according to a readout from his office. As a result, he said, military action in Rafah was required given "the lack of an alternative."

It comes after the latest round of cease-fire talks appear to have stalled.

Lloyd Austin stressed the need for any military operation in Rafah to include a plan to evacuate civilians and maintain the flow of humanitarian aid, according to a readout of the conversation provided by the Pentagon.

No firm timeline for Rafah ground attack, Israeli official says

TEL AVIV — No firm timeline has been set for when Israeli ground troops will enter Rafah, an Israeli official has told NBC News.

The timing will depend on when the government gives the IDF the order to move in and on how long it takes for civilians in eastern Rafah to evacuate, the official said.

The U.S. and its allies have repeatedly urged Israel's government against a ground assault on the southern city, where more than half of Gaza's civilian population is thought to be sheltering.

But Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted his troops will enter Rafah to target Hamas leaders, whether before or after a new truce deal.

IDF drops leaflets over eastern Rafah urging people to evacuate

The IDF has dropped leaflets over eastern Rafah urging Palestinians to evacuate the area to Al-Mawasi, several miles north of the encampment where hundreds of thousands of people have sought shelter.

In leaflets seen by NBC News' crew on the ground, people in parts of Al-Shouka, Al-Salam, Al-Jeneina, Tabbah Ziraa, and Al-Byouk were warned to "evacuate immediately to the expanded humanitarian area of Al-Mawasi."

They also urged Palestinians to avoid trying to return north of the Wadi Gaza, saying Gaza City is "still a dangerous combat zone."

In separate flyers, the IDF outlined where humanitarian services would be expanded in Al-Mawasi area.

Around 100,000 people told to evacuate eastern Rafah, IDF spokesman says

TEL AVIV — The number of people being told to move from eastern Rafah into what Israel says is an expanded humanitarian area is estimated to be around 100,000, an IDF spokesman said. 

Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani would not say in a media briefing how long civilians have to evacuate under this morning’s evacuation order. 

He also would not go into detail about how the operation will impact the Rafah crossing but said the IDF is committed to maintaining the flow of aid into Gaza. He said the humanitarian zone would be “safer” for civilians but that the IDF reserved the right to strike against Hamas inside the zone.

IDF instructs people in eastern Rafah to move to humanitarian zone

Rudy Chinchilla

Israeli forces today began instructing people in eastern portions of Rafah to move into a humanitarian zone, potentially signaling preparations for a ground invasion of the southern Gaza city.

The call for Palestinians to move was confirmed by the Israel Defense Forces, which included a map of the humanitarian area . "Calls to temporarily move to the humanitarian area will be conveyed through posters, SMS messages, phone calls and media broadcasts in Arabic," the IDF said in a statement.

A possible ground offensive in Rafah has been widely condemned internationally, with United Nations officials warning that it would increase the civilian death toll and worsen the humanitarian crisis in the enclave.

The move also comes despite President Joe Biden repeatedly stating U.S. opposition to an invasion of Rafah, where the population has swelled to an estimated 1.4 million people following Israel’s offensive in Gaza in retaliation for Hamas’ deadly attack on Israel and the taking of hostages Oct. 7.

The Biden administration has threatened consequences for Israel should it move forward with a military assault without a credible plan to safeguard civilians in Rafah, which had a prewar population of around 250,000. 

Austin reiterates need for civilian protections in Rafah

Mosheh Gains

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin yesterday stressed the need for any Israeli military operation in Rafah to include a plan to evacuate civilians and maintain the flow of humanitarian aid.

He made the remarks while speaking with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, according to a readout of the conversation provided by Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder. During the discussion, Austin reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting Israel's defense, and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the return of all hostages taken by Hamas militants.

CIA director may travel to Israel for more cease-fire and hostage negotiations

Dan De Luce

CIA Director William Burns may travel to Israel for more cease-fire and hostage release talks after holding discussions yesterday in the Qatari capital, Doha, a source with knowledge of the matter told NBC News.

Burns, whose schedule remained fluid amid uncertainty over the outcome of the talks, has emerged as a key figure in the negotiations. The CIA director had previously been in Cairo, where Hamas stated that cease-fire discussions concluded yesterday following “in-depth and serious discussions.”

The militant group reiterated key demands that Israel again rejected. After earlier signs of progress, the outlook appeared to dim as  Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu  vowed to resist international pressure to halt the war.

Israel-Gaza latest: Bodies of three people killed at music festival, including Shani Louk, recovered in Gaza

The IDF's chief military spokesperson says the hostages' bodies were recovered in an overnight operation. Meanwhile, the UN's top court will hear from Israel today as it responds to charges of genocide over its actions in Gaza brought by South Africa.

Friday 17 May 2024 20:31, UK

• Israel-Hamas war

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• Israel has 'seized bodies of three hostages from Gaza'
• They were murdered while celebrating life', IDF says | Netanyahu 'heartbroken' over deaths
• Alistair Bunkall: Discovery of bodies will reinforce Israeli belief that more hostages are in Rafah
• Israeli protesters attack truck in attempt to block aid reaching Gaza
• Spain bans ships carrying weapons for Israel from docking at its ports
• Gaza hospital chief issues desperate plea for ceasefire amid 'massacre'
• Scroll down for the latest on the Israel-Gaza war
• Listen to the Daily above and tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts
• Live updates by Brad Young

Israel has assured the US they are willing to continue discussions before making any major decisions on plans to assault Rafah, a US official has said.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said national security adviser Jake Sullivan will raise the issue on a visit to Israel to meet Benjamin Netanyahu.

Mr Sullivan will stress the need to go after Hamas in a targeted way, not with a full-scale assault on the southern city, Mr Kirby said.

He said it was important that the Rafah crossing was opened immediately.

The Israeli military seized control of the crossing between  Gaza and Egypt earlier this month.

Hamas says the US-built aid pier off Gaza's coast is no alternative to opening all land crossings under Palestinian supervision.

It added that they reject any military presence on Palestinian land.

Trucks carrying aid rolled across the pier today for the first time in an operation the US says will scale up to 150 truckloads a day.

But Gaza is already on the brink of famine, according to international aid organisations.

Aid groups also say land crossings are much more effective, and at least 500 trucks a day are required to meet the basic needs of the population.

Israeli restrictions on border crossings and heavy fighting have hindered the delivery of food and other supplies.

An investigation has been launched after a 450kg bomb fell from an Israeli fighter jet into an Israeli town this morning, according to reports.

Images showed the munition landed close to homes in Yated.

The Israeli military said it was intended for Rafah and described the incident as "unusual", reported the Times of Israel.

"Air Force technical teams arrived at the scene and began an in-depth investigation of the incident."

The Rafah strike was carried out moments later, the military said.

Israeli strikes on Lebanon have killed at least five people including Lebanese militants, Hamas fighters and Syrian civilians, security sources told Reuters.

A series of strikes on a coastal town further north than the usual conflict area killed a Hezbollah member as well as two Syrian civilians, the security sources said.

They said a separate Israeli strike on Majdal Anjar, on Lebanon's eastern border with Syria, killed two Hamas fighters.

Israel and Hezbollah have been exchanging fire across Lebanon's southern border for seven months in parallel with the Gaza war, but it has ramped up in recent days.

There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military.

The recovery of the bodies of three hostages from Gaza is a "painful reminder" of those who are still in captivity, says a member of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.

Professor Hagai Levine said over the last day, rumours circulating about which bodies had been returned to Israel were "very painful for the families" of all the captives.

It was important to bring home the bodies of hostages to give their families closure, he said.

"We do not lose hope. We are preparing for the return of the hostages that are alive," he said.

"As long as we promote a solution to release the hostages, it will also help to prevent further bloodshed in Gaza."

Turning to the approach the Israeli government has taken, Mr Levine said the government "is not representing well the desires of the public".

"There is a majority in Israel that believe that we should now promote regional agreements and together with the moderate countries, not the extremists, we should kick out Hamas... and replace them with another kind of government.

"This could really bring peace and prosperity to the Palestinians and to Israelis and to the entire region and we feel that the government is not doing enough."

Shani Louk's father says the return of her body to her family has been a form of closure.

Nissim Louk told Haaretz his daughter "radiated light, to her and those who surrounded her, and in her death she still does".

"She is a symbol of the people of Israel, between light and darkness. Her inner and outer beauty that shone for all the world to see is a special one."

He said: "The tormented soul knows that there is a hole in the heart somewhere in Gaza. Today we got a final answer."

The bodies of three hostages were found in Rafah during a joint IDF and Israeli intelligence operation last night, says Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall.

The international community has warned strongly against an assault on the southern city, where more than a million civilians are sheltering, but Israel has vowed to press ahead.

One of Israel's justifications for going into Rafah is that it is where they say many of the hostages are being held, either dead or alive, Bunkall says.

"The logic is that as the Israeli military has pushed through Gaza from north to south, the hostages would have been moved.

"The thinking is, within the Israeli military and Israeli government, that there are more hostages being held inside Rafah.

"I'm sure that the discovery of these three bodies will probably encourage them in that respect because there are hostages still alive - there have been hostage videos released by Hamas in recent weeks." 

In November, the brother of Shani Louk, whose body was found today, told Sky News of their last phone call as she tried to escape Hamas.

Then came a video that shook the world. Shani's body was seen face down in a pick-up truck being paraded through Gaza .

"I never thought I was going to be in contact with this type of video, seeing my sister in that brutal position," Amit said.

"And just in that moment, the whole family just crashed."

Listen to him speak here...

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he is "heartbroken" for the loss of Itzhak Gelerenter, Amit Buskila, and Shani Louk.

"My wife, Sara, and I grieve with the families," he said, adding: "We will return all our hostages."

President Isaac Herzog said: "My heart goes out in sympathy to the grieving and tormented families."

Foreign affairs minister Israel Katz added: "I send condolences and a big hug to the families, and gratitude to our heroic soldiers who are doing everything to bring all the hostages home."

Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari has offered his condolences to the families of the three hostages found dead in Gaza.

The IDF earlier said they seized the bodies of  Itzhak Gelerenter, Amit Buskila, and Shani Louk.

"They were celebrating life in the Nova music festival and they were murdered by Hamas," said Mr Hagari.

He said their families have been notified.

"Our hearts go out to them, to the families at this difficult time. We will leave no stone unturned, we will do everything in our power to find our hostages and bring them home."

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Egypt deals ‘diplomatic blow’ to Israel by joining ICJ genocide case

Egypt says it will formally support South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Israel’s former foreign minister tells Al Jazeera it represents an ‘unbelievable diplomatic blow to Israel’.