Highlights of Egypt and Jordan
/ (17 days)
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Crossing the Nile to Dead Sea and Petra
Weekly Guaranteed departure
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DAY 01 |
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USA
- Cairo |
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DAY 02 |
Cairo |
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Upon
at Cairo Airport, you are met by Global gate
vacations and transferred to your hotel. This is simply
an arrival day so you may arrive in Cairo at any time.
The balance of the day is free to explore Cairo. |
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DAY 03 |
Cairo
- overnight train |
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After
breakfast at the hotel we head to the Egyptian Museum
for a tour of the various key exhibits. Our guide
explains the complexity of Egypt’s many dynastic
periods, starting with the Old Kingdom and ending with
the Greco-Roman occupation. This provides us with an
excellent background for our visit south to Upper Egypt.
Later we drive out to Giza, where we visit the Great
Pyramids and the nearby Sphinx , proceed to the railway
station, where we board the overnight sleeper train to
Luxor. (BD) |
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DAY 04 |
Luxor |
Breakfast on board the train and just after dawn we
arrive in Luxor, where we are transferred to our Nile
cruise boat and our home for the next four nights. We
can relax by the pool on the boat or explore the bazaar
in town. Later in the day visit Karnak, which is one of
the world’s most celebrated temple complexes, built over
a period of some 200 years. We enjoy a guided tour of
the temple and the rest of the afternoon and evening is
free to relax, shop in the bazaar (which stays open till
quite late) or experience the atmosphere of a local
coffee shop. (BLD)
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DAY 05 |
Luxor |
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We
rise early this morning (very early in summer time!) and
drive across to the west bank of the Nile. We head into
the Valley of the Kings where our guide explains the
funerary rites of the ancient Egyptians and significance
of the many tomb paintings and hieroglyphics. We visit
three royal tombs and then continue to the Temple of
Queen Hatshepsut, set in a spectacular natural
amphitheatre. Our final stop is at the Colossi of Memnon,
giant statues that were once part of an impressive
colonnade. We return to our cruise boat on the east
bank, where we enjoy lunch on board. There is time to
relax on deck or in your cabin before we set sail for
Edfu. Departure time may vary, depending on river
traffic – please refer to the note regarding cruise
schedules in the ‘Other Information’ section. We pass
through Esna lock, which can sometimes be a slow
process, depending on the number of vessels waiting to
get through, and continue our journey upstream. (BLD)
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DAY 06 |
Edfu
- Komombo |
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Morning finds us moored near Edfu, a very well-preserved
temple dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed God. We
disembark and have time to explore the temple as well as
experiencing the bustling town centre. Returning to our
cruise boat we continue travelling upstream, relaxing on
the sundeck and enjoying views of the desert and the
everyday life that is almost as timeless as the Nile
itself. Arriving at Komombo we visit the Temple of Sobek
(the crocodile-headed god) that lies classically ruined
on the edge of the Nile River. Its most spectacular
aspect is undoubtedly from the river itself, but a short
walk around the temple also provides an interesting
insight into the Greco-Roman period. (BLD) |
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DAY 07 |
Aswan |
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We
arrive in Aswan, Egypt’s southernmost city. This
friendly metropolis has an easygoing charm that is due
in no small part to its large Nubian population.
Depending on the arrival time of our cruise boat, we may
make a visit to the beautiful Temple of Isis that was
rescued from the rising waters of the Nile and relocated
on Philae Island (alternatively we will visit it
tomorrow). It is an absolute gem and one of the
highlights of Upper Egypt. The rest of our day is free
to wander through the Nubian bazaar, visit the excellent
Nubian Museum or enjoy a walk along the 'corniche',
which is the promenade that runs alongside the river. (BLD)
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DAY 08 |
Aswan
- overnight train |
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After
breakfast , free time on board , disembark from nile
cruise boat (possibility of an optional excursion to the
mighty temple of Abu simbel by plane). Afternoon,
transfer to the station, where we board the sleeper
train for the return journey to Cairo. Dinner. (BD) |
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DAY 09 |
Cairo |
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After
breakfast on the train we arrive in Cairo and are
transferred to our hotel, where we have time to freshen
up. Having experienced the highlights of ancient Egypt
today is our opportunity to see something of medieval
Cairo in the form of the Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo’s
oldest mosque. Visit Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, which
sprawls around an old area of Cairo known as Al-Azhar.
The tortuous streets and alleyways and attendant hawkers
all combine to look like a scene from '1001 Nights', as
our tour leader takes us into the heart of the bazaar.
We explore the gold market, ‘perfume street’ and the
spice market – where the scent of cumin, coriander and
cardamom hangs in the air like a thick blanket of
Damascene cloth (which can be purchased next door in the
cloth market!). (BL) |
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DAY 10 |
Mount
Sinai |
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After
breakfast , this morning we travel east towards Suez
where we drive through the Suez Canal tunnel and then
turn south towards Mt. Sinai. It’s a long day’s drive
(around eight hours). We reach our hotel in the late
afternoon where there may be time to relax before
dinner. (BD) |
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DAY 11 |
Mount
Sinai - Nuweiba - Aqaba |
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If
you wish to ascend Mount Sinai to watch the sun rise
over the peninsula will be woken up between 2am and 3am
(depending on the season). It is a fairly steep climb
(with stairs all the way), but as it is dark most people
take two to three hours to reach the summit. The view is
well worth the effort and you return to your hotel for a
well-earned breakfast. Note that during the winter
months (October to March) it can get very cold on the
mountain and may even snow during the height of winter.
Please ensure you have warm thermal clothes during this
period. Around mid-morning we drive to Nuweiba to board
the hydrofoil to Aqaba. It is important that you read
the notes below regarding the ferry journey. On arrival
in Aqaba we are transferred to our hotel for our first
night in Jordan. (BD) |
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DAY 12 |
Aqaba
- Wadi Rum |
After
breakfast , with our guide we enjoy a brief orientation
of Aqaba. We can visit the old castle (time permitting)
before driving to Wadi Rum. Browse around the excellent
and informative visitor’s centre before we meet our
Bedouin friends and ride camels to our traditional
Bedouin tent situated deep within Wadi Rum. There's
plenty of time to explore our surroundings and enjoy a
memorable sunset. Wadi Rum is a truly beautiful place
with towering sandstone mountains rising from the
desert. It fully deserves the amount of time we spend
here, with the wind-sculpted rock formations changing
hue throughout the day from sunrise to sunset. The area
is home to Bedouin tribes who live in scattered camps
throughout the area. We enjoy an evening with our
Bedouin friends at their camp, which is set in an
amazing location. Wadi Rum is probably best known
because of its connection with the enigmatic British
officer T.E. 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 Wadi Rum. (B)
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DAY 13 |
Wadi
Rum - Petra |
After
breakfast , it’s well worth rising early and watching
the cliffs change colour as the sun comes up. We enjoy a
walk in the morning (the length of the walk will depend
on how energetic we are feeling) and scaling one of the
large dunes to enjoy sensational views of the
surrounding area. Keen photographers will be delighted!
We then take 4WDs from our camp back to the main
entrance. The visitor's centre is also a great spot to
buy some jewellery and knick-knacks, mostly made by a
women’s co-operative which is aimed at supporting
traditional local industries. We then continue our
journey to Petra. On arrival there is time in the
afternoon to check out the town, withdraw or change
money and just relax…ready for a big day of exploring
Petra tomorrow. (BD)
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DAY 14 |
Petra |
After
breakfast , for most people the image of Petra is a
narrow chasm with glimpses of the famous Treasury in the
distance. We are sure to be surprised by the size of
this ancient city, built by the Nabataean people. With
our guide we explore the old Roman road, amphitheatre
and several old tombs. We also climb up to the Monastery
for a fine view of the entire site. It is a memorable
day and sure to be one of the main highlights of our
trip. The rest of the day is at leisure. (BD)
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DAY 15 |
Shobak - Dana - Madaba - Amman |
After
breakfast , This morning we drive along the King’s
Highway, a road that dates back to beyond the time of
the Old Testament. We reach Shobak Castle, originally
built to protect the eastern flank of the Latin Kingdom
and its trade routes to the sea before it fell to
Saladin in 1189. We enjoy a walk through the site and
continue to the ancient village at Dana, where local
artisans sell attractive silver jewellery and charms. We
then reach Madaba, where we visit the Greek Orthodox
Church of St. George that houses an ancient mosaic map.
This is of particular interest as it clearly depicts
Palestine and Lower Egypt around 550 AD. We expect to
arrive in Amman in the late afternoon. (B)
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DAY 16 |
Jerash - Dead Sea - Amman |
After
breakfast , dep. to The Roman city of Jerash is in a
fine state of preservation. Founded in the time of
Alexander the Great, it had become a centre of
considerable importance by the 3rd century AD. Today it
is one of the grandest ancient cities in the world with
an imposing collection of archways, theatres, baths,
public buildings and colonnaded streets. We visit the
site in the morning and later drive down to the Dead
Sea. The afternoon is at leisure to experience the warm
waters, which have an unusually high saline content, or
to relax on the shore. We return to Amman for our final
night. (B)
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DAY 17 |
Amman
- USA |
After
breakfast , transfer to airport for your homebound
flight
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TOUR FEATURES |
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Scheduled transatlantic flight (round trip ticket
NYC/Cairo-Amman/NYC) For supplements from other US
gateways (please refer to our reservation
department) (Air & land prices) |
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Sleeper
train with meals included |
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Deluxe
05 stars Le
Meridien Pyramids Hotel |
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Beau Soleil Nile Cruise 5*
Deluxe cruise |
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Arena
Space Amman (First Class)
http://www.arenaspacehotel.com/
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Beit
Zaman (First Class) |
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All
meals as per itinerary |
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Luxury touring cars |
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Sightseeing as per itinerary with all Entrance fees
to all sites , temples and museums |
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All
transfers in Cairo, Aswan , Luxor , Amman , Petra
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Professional
tour directors escort you |
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2011 / 2012
and 2013 Highlights of Egypt and Jordan 17 Days
Prices are Valid for the period
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Between |
And |
land only |
air & land |
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OCT 28 |
DEC 10 |
3445 |
4545 |
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DEC 11 |
DEC 11 |
3675 |
4775 |
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DEC 12 |
DEC 27 |
3845 |
4945 |
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(XMASS&NEW
YEAR GALA DINNER MAY APPLY) 2012 |
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JAN 03 |
FEB 28 |
3145 |
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MAR 01 |
MAR 31 |
3545 |
4645 |
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APR 01 |
JUN 30 |
3675 |
4775 |
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JUL 01 |
SEP 30 |
3875 |
4975 |
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OCT 01 |
DEC 06 |
3445 |
4445 |
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DEC 07 |
DEC15 |
3845 |
4845 |
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DEC 16 |
DEC 30 |
3995 |
4955 |
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(XMASS &NEW YEAR GALA DINNER MAY APPLY) 2013 |
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DEC 31 |
FEB 28 |
3355 |
4545 |
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The
modern metropolis of Cairo pulses with activity, yet the
past is so close by. The great Pyramids of Giza and Memphis
are all within easy reach. Inside the city the
world-renowned Egyptian Museum allows a glimpse of the rich
heritage of this land. Whether exploring the ancient or
living the present, Cairo will leave you with an impression
of excitement & awe.
Cairo is
Egypt’s capital city, and with over 16 million inhabitants, it
ranks as one of the largest cities in Africa. This city of
contradictions will enthrall you with its ageless charm. The
ancient and the modern co-exist in surprising harmony, and the
hospitality and friendliness of its people will set you at ease.
Historic Cairo includes the wonders of the pharoahs, as well as a
religious heritage embodied in the numerous jewish, coptic and
islamic monuments that abound.
The
southeastern city of Luxor is home to some of the most
remarkable ancient monuments in all of Egypt. The vast
Karnak Temple Complex, ancient religious and educational
center, is one of the most spectacular examples. There is
also the Valley of Kings, where the famous tomb of King
Tutankhamun was found, and the Valley of Queens, final
resting place of Queen Nefertari. In addition to the
splendor of its museums and ancient temples, Luxor is also
the perfect location to embark on a Nile Cruise.
The
southern city of Aswan is one of Egypt’s most important
attractions. It is one of the sunniest cities in the
country, small enough to walk through and enjoys an ideal
location on the bank of the beautiful Nile River. Close at
hand is Elephantine Island with its pre-dynastic ruins, and
Kitchener’s Island, home to a lush tropical garden full of
exotic plants and flowers. Aswan is the perfect spot to
embark on a Nile cruise or simply enjoy the river views from
the comfort of your hotel.
Petra (from
the Greek, meaning 'rock') lies in a great rift valley east of
Wadi 'Araba in Jordan about 80 kilometers south of the Dead Sea.
It came into prominence in the late first century BCE (BC)
through the success of the spice trade. The city was the
principal city of ancient Nabataea and was famous above all for
two things: its trade and its hydraulic engineering systems. It
was locally autonomous until the reign of Trajan, but it
flourished under Roman rule. The town grew up around its
Colonnaded Street in the first century CE (AD) and by the
mid-first century had witnessed rapid urbanization. Following
the flow of the Wadi Musa, the city-center was laid out on
either sides of the Colonnaded Street on an elongated plan
between the theater in the east and the Qasr al-Bint in the
west. The quarries were probably opened in this period, and
there followed virtually continuous building through the first
and second centuries CE.
According to
tradition, in ca. 1200 BCE, the Petra area (but not necessarily
the site itself) was populated by Edomites and the area was
known as Edom ("red"). Before the Israelite incursions, the
Edomites controlled the trade routes from Arabia in the south to
Damascus in the north. Little is known about the Edomites at
Petra itself, but as a people they were known for their wisdom,
their writing, their textile industry, the excellence and
fineness of their ceramics, and their skilled metal working.
The next
chapter of history belongs to the Persian period, and it is
posited that during this time the Nabataeans migrated into Edom,
forcing the Edomites to move into southern Palestine. But little
is known about Petra proper until about 312 BC by which time the
Nabataeans, one of many Arab tribes, occupied it and made it the
capital of their kingdom. At this time, during the Hellenistic
rule of the Seleucids, and later, the Ptolemies, the whole area
flourished with increased trade and the establishment of new
towns such as Philadelphia (Rabbath 'Ammon, modern Amman) and
Gerasa (modern Jerash). Infighting between the Seleucids and
Ptolemies allowed the Nabataeans to gain control over the
caravan routes between Arabia and Syria. Although there were
struggles between the Jewish Maccabeans and the Seleucid
overlords, Nabataean trade continued.
With
Nabataean rule, Petra became the center for a spice trade that
extended from Arabia to Aqaba and Petra, and onward either to
Gaza in the northwest, or to the north through Amman to Bostra,
Damascus, and finally on to Palmyra and the Syrian Desert.
Nabataean Classical monuments reflect the international
character of the Nabataean economy through their combination of
native tradition and the classical spirit.
But among the
most remarkable of all Nabataean achievements is the hydraulic
engineering systems they developed including water conservation
systems and the dams that were constructed to divert the rush of
swollen winter waters that create flash floods.
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