Jewels of Egypt & Jordan

Your journey into wonder starts with a three-night Special Stay in Giza, excellently located close to the Great Pyramids. Enjoy breathtaking views of these ancient wonders, which have stood for over 4,500 years as the last of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Its a unique opportunity to be immersed in the complexs rich history and architectural marvels. Sunset Drinks Enjoy drinks and canapés as the sun sets over the magnificent pyramids. Please book your flight to arrive into Cairo prior to 02:00 PM.

Witness the grandeur of the pyramids, towering monuments of ancient engineering, and stand before the enigmatic Sphinx, a 20-metre-high limestone marvel that has guarded these necropolis grounds for millennia. Venture into the Grand Egyptian Museum for an afternoon steeped in history, where you can explore the precious artifacts from King Tutankhamun’s tomb, offering insights into the young pharaoh’s life and legacy. The Solar Boat exhibit is another highlight, featuring a meticulously restored cedar wood barge dating back to 2500 BC. This ancient vessel, found buried beside the Great Pyramid of Khufu, gives insight into the sophisticated craftsmanship and religious practices of the time, depicting how the Egyptians prepared their rulers for the eternal afterlife.

Visit the ancient capital of Memphis and the remarkable Step Pyramid of Saqqara, one of Egypts earliest pyramids. Delve into the Imhotep Museum, named after the pyramids architect, which showcases an impressive collection of artifacts unearthed from the Saqqara site, offering a deeper understanding of Egypts rich archaeological heritage.

Fly early to Abu Simbel, where youll witness the awe-inspiring World Heritage-listed temples of Ramses II and his queen, Nefertari. These colossal monuments, carved out of solid rock, are among Egypts most spectacular and showcase the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture and artistry. Later, fly to Aswan for a two-night Special Stay. Soak in the stunning vistas of the Nile, a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection on the days historic explorations.

Choose from a range of experiences and continue to explore Aswan. In the evening, learn more about the history of your hotel, which hosted icons like Princess Diana, Winston Churchill and Agatha Christie, during pre-dinner drinks at The Terrace. Freechoice: Nubian Museum: Explore the Nubian Museum dedicated to Nubian culture and civilisation, showcasing a history that can be traced from at least 2000 BC. Visit a Nubian Village: Gain a unique insight into one of the oldest civilisations on Earth, the Nubians. Walk through the village with your Nubian guide and visit a private home to learn about life on the Nile. Kalabsha Temple: Visit the beautiful but often-overlooked Kalabsha Temple on the shores of Lake Nasser. View the pylon, court, hall and sanctuary and the richly carved reliefs.

Board the elegant Sanctuary Sun Boat III and settle into your suite. Discover the captivating Philae Temple Complex, dedicated to Isis and celebrated as one of the burial sites of Osiris, making it a significant centre for both Isis and Osiris worship. Afterwards, glide along the Nile on a traditional felucca, a classic wooden sailboat used on the Nile for centuries. Glide gently along the river, soaking in the serene landscapes and historical banks. End your day with a lively Nubian dance performance, immersing yourself in the rich culture of Egypt.

Trace the path once taken by ancient pharaohs processions as you cruise south along the Nile. Admire the rural villages and majestic temples that dot the riverbanks. Explore the Esna Temple, one of ancient Egypt’s holiest sites, revered for its beautifully preserved hypostyle hall and intricate carvings dedicated to Khnum, the ram-headed god of the river. Later, sail to the striking Kom Ombo Temple, strategically located on the East Bank. This unique double temple is dedicated to Sobek, the Crocodile God, and Horus the Elder, reflecting the duality of ancient Egyptian theology. As the sun sets, the on board atmosphere livens with a colourful Galabeyya party. Enjoy an evening of Egyptian delicacies, vibrant music, and dancing, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Explore the open-air Karnak Temple Complex, one of the largest religious sites in the world, spanning over 200 acres. Marvel at the enormity of the Hypostyle Hall, a forest of 134 towering columns, each intricately engraved with hieroglyphs, depicting the rich tapestry of ancient Egyptian mythology and history. Cross to the West Bank of the Nile and admire the well-preserved, vibrant hieroglyphics that decorate the tombs in the Valley of the Kings.  Later see Queen Hatshepsut monument.

Unwind on board your cruise and observe the vibrant daily life along the mighty Nile as you journey towards Dendera. There, visit the Temple of Hathor, one of the best-preserved temple complexes in Egypt, renowned for its magnificent capitals and the Dendera Zodiac ceiling relief. This temple dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love and joy, showcases exquisite architecture and intricate carvings that reveal the sophistication of ancient Egyptian religious practices. After exploring Dendera, visit the majestic Luxor Temple. Situated in the heart of ancient Thebes, Luxor Temple is a grandiose testament to Egyptian civilisations architectural prowess, featuring colossal statues of Ramesses II and amenities originally built by Amenhotep III, which illuminate the religious and political significance of the temple throughout history. Conclude your day with a farewell Gala Dinner alongside the captain and crew, a memorable end to your Nile cruise.

After disembarking, youll visit the Valley of the Nobles, a site with hundreds of rock-cut tombs belonging to ancient Egyptian nobility. These tombs, richly adorned with vibrant frescoes, provide a fascinating glimpse into the daily activities and cultural practices of their inhabitants. Thats because the detailed wall paintings in each tomb showcase the artistic mastery of the time while also offering valuable insights into the social and economic structures of ancient Egypt, depicting scenes of agriculture, trade, and festivities that animated their world. Check into your  hotel for an overnight stay. Enjoy some time at leisure to bask in an atmosphere steeped in history, romance and adventure.

Journey across the desert to your opulent hotel, nestled on the shores of the Red Sea. Enjoy a two-night Special Stay at this luxurious resort on the shores of the Red Sea, taking in your serene surroundings. Sunset Drinks Raise your glass as you watch the colours changing across the desert and seascapes. 

Savour a relaxing day by the Red Sea, known for its warm, crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. This unique body of water is one of the worlds most saline seas and a premier destination for diving and snorkelling, famed for its lush coral reefs and diverse ecosystems. Enjoy the tranquil beauty or an optional snorkelling boat trip to discover the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea.

Fly to Cairo and settle into your hotel for a two-night stay. Discover Egypt’s rich heritage at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation, a highlight of which is the Royal Mummies’ Hall, featuring meticulously preserved mummies of Egypts ancient royalty. Explore other key exhibits that showcase artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the modern era, each piece telling a story of Egypts complex and fascinating history.

Choose from a range of experiences to explore Cairo, also known as "The City of a Thousand Minarets" due to its rich history and abundance of historic Islamic architecture. This evening, join your Tour Director for a farewell dinner. Freechoice: Coptic Cairo: Find yourself winding through the streets of Old Cairo. Visit Cairo’s Coptic Museum containing one of the world’s largest collections of Egyptian Christian artifacts. Continue to the Hanging Church and a chance to visit Ben Ezra Synagogue. Historic Cairo: Tour the heart of medieval Cairo, featuring the stunning Sultan Hassan Mosque. Learn about Arabic calligraphy and explore local community projects in Souq al-Silah and Bayt Yakan Roda Island: Discover Roda Island in central Cairo, visiting the ancient Nilometer and the Manial Palace Museum, which showcases the life and times of Prince Muhammad Ali and marks a significant era in Egyptian history.

Fly to Amman, the capital and largest city of Jordan, located in the north-central part of the country. Transfer to your luxurious hotel on the Dead Sea for a two-night Special Stay and enjoy stunning views and a welcome dinner with your Tour Director and fellow travellers.

Take full advantage of your resorts amenities at the Dead Sea, including direct access to its tranquil waters. Treat yourself to a therapeutic mud treatment, renowned for its rich minerals and healing properties. Relax and float effortlessly in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth; you may even enjoy reading a book in this unique environment. Be immersed in a deep sense of relaxation while indulging in this remarkable natural spa experience, enhanced by stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. Sunset Drinks Enjoy drinks and canapés as the sun sets over the magnificent Dead Sea.

This morning begins with a visit to Mount Nebo, a site of profound biblical significance where Moses is believed to have viewed the Promised Land before his death. Explore the memorial and enjoy panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea from this historic vantage point. Continue to Madaba, known as the "City of Mosaics." Here, youll discover the famous mosaic map of the Holy Land, dating back to the 6th century, beautifully preserved within the floor of St. Georges Church. Visit the Madaba Institute for Mosaic Art and Restoration, which is dedicated to preserving and restoring the ancient mosaics found throughout the region. Conclude your day by arriving in Petra for a two-night stay, located just steps from the entrance to this ancient Nabatean city.

Discover Petra, the "Rose Red City," a World Heritage-listed site that stands as a testament to the ancient Nabataeans who carved this city into the rocky landscape over 2,000 years ago. Begin your exploration by walking through the Siq, a narrow, winding gorge flanked by towering cliffs of vibrant reds and oranges. This path leads you to Petra’s most iconic structure, the Treasury, whose stunning 40-meter-high rock-cut façade was crafted to impress all who wander into this ancient city. The elaborate carvings and architectural prowess make the Treasury a true marvel of ancient engineering and artistry.

Enrich Baking bread is an essential part of Jordanian culture, present in every meal. Join locals as they teach you traditional bread-making techniques passed down through generations. Travel in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia as you discover the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon. This majestic area offers vast red sands and towering rock formations that have captivated travellers for centuries. Youll experience the desert in true luxury with a Special Stay at the Wadi Rum Palmera Camp, where you can sleep under the stars in bubble tents. Enjoy unobstructed views of the desert sky, enhancing your connection to this timeless landscape. Sunset Drinks Witness the dramatic colours of the desert at sunset over a refreshing drink.

Travel back to Amman for a three-night Special Stay. Join your Tour Director for a walk through the food and produce markets and experience the daily life and flavours of the city. Visit Citadel Hill, an ancient historical site that offers panoramic views of Amman and houses important landmarks such as the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace. Explore the Roman Theatre, a stunningly preserved 2nd-century amphitheatre that once seated 6,000 spectators, illustrating the Roman influence on the region. Further enhance your understanding of Jordan’s rich history and culture at the Jordan Museum, which features a comprehensive collection that spans from ancient civilisations to modern history, including the famous Dead Sea Scrolls.

Continue exploring Amman by choosing from diverse experiences. Freechoice: Downtown Graffiti Tour Take an off the beaten path walking tour and explore some of Amman’s oldest neighbourhoods and their relationship with street art and graffiti. Learn the history of the city and the evolution of Amman’s street art community. Iraq Al-Amir Women’s Cooperative Tour: Visit the Iraq Al Amir Women’s Cooperative, where local women engage in traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and papermaking to preserve heritage and support the community. Royal Automobile Museum Visit: View the extensive private collection of the Royal Family. Discover at leisure King Hussein’s personal collection of over 70 classic cars and motorbikes. Ranging from the pre 1950 to the modern sports cars of today, this rare collection will delight any car enthusiast. These cars capture moments in history with the collection boasting the royal blue Lincoln Capri that led Hussein to his coronation and a replica of a 1915 Rolls Royce that once belonged to Lawrence of Arabia. Enrich Tonight, immerse yourself in Jordanian culture with a home-hosted dinner in a traditional Jordanian residence. Delight in the warmth and hospitality of your hosts as you savour authentic local cuisine and gain intimate insights into the customs and traditions of Jordan.

A transformative experience awaits today as you visit Bethany Beyond the Jordan, the revered site where Jesus was baptised. This location offers profound historical and spiritual significance, featuring ancient churches, baptismal pools, and pilgrim sites, providing a tangible connection to biblical events Continue your journey to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Middle East. Wander through its colonnaded streets, grand temples, and theatres, marvelling at the sophisticated urban layout and the remarkable condition of these ancient structures. Enrich Tonight, celebrate a memorable farewell at the Tiraz Centre, an architectural gem in Amman. This venue houses an extensive collection of Palestinian, Jordanian, and other Arab costumes dating from the 19th and 20th centuries, offering a fascinating glimpse into the regions cultural heritage. Enjoy the elegance of this contemporary setting as you reflect on the experiences shared during your journey.

Say farewell as you transfer to Amman airport, taking wonderful memories with you. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the journey will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.