Days
22
Price from
From the Valley of the Kings to the Dead Sea, the solitude of the Wadi Rum desert to the high energy of Tel Aviv, this trip encompasses the best of Egypt, Jordan and Israel
Embark on a cultural and historical adventure through the Middle East, from the heartland of ancient Egypt to the Dead Sea and beyond. Over 22 unforgettable days, sail down the Nile, travel to the temples of Abu Simbel, break bread with local communities, discover lost kingdoms in Jordan, camp under the desert stars with Bedouins and marvel at some of the world’s most powerful religious sites in and around Jerusalem and Jericho.
Before booking on this trip we recommend that you read the ‘Safety’ section in the Essential Trip Information regarding special safety considerations for Egypt trips.
- Code
- PGDIC
- Physical rating
- Trip rating
- 7 reviews
- Ages
- Min 15
- Group size
- Min 1, Max 12
Why you'll love this trip
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Witness the icons of ancient Egypt, from the pyramids and Sphinx to the Valley of the Kings.
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Rest, relax and watch life unfold on the banks of the Nile during your 4 night river cruise our Feature Stay in Egypt .
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Enjoy the traditional food and hospitality of a Nubian village in Egypt.
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Travel to Abu Simbel’s monumental temples by plane and marvel at the sheer scale of these stunning structures.
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Spend the night in a Luxury camp in Wadi Rum feast on a Bedouin BBQ under a 1000 stars in is our Feature Stay Camp in Jordan
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Get a taste of Israel's bustling modern heartland - Tel Aviv, tour old Jaffa and partake in some Hummus tasting.
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Float in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea.
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Discover the religious melting pot of Jerusalem and its Old City.
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Stay in a renovated Guesthouse in Bethlehem and try first class Palestinian cuisine
Is this trip right for you?
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This trip can be enjoyed by just about anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.
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This trip visits a number of religious sites so it's advisable to bring clothes that cover arms and legs if you want to go inside and remain respectful. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it's hot.
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Sites in Israel & The Palestinian Territories can get congested during peak travel periods with coaches of large pilgrim groups. We do our best to plan our visits around these times but sometimes it is unavoidable. There may be delays, queue's and private services that prevent us from entering the site. Your trip leader will manage this as best as they can on the day.
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Egypt can get incredibly hot in the summer months of July and August. Regardless of the month, it does heats up quickly during the day and there will be some site visits with little or no shade.
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The weather in Jordan and Israel can be quite cool in the winter, so pack layers of clothing to deal with the varying temperatures.
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Some of the sites you will visit involve walking on rocky and/or steep hillsides, and there is often little or no shade. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes and a hat are essential.
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Accommodation aboard the Nile riverboat is full board – breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. Drinks are offered from the bar area for an additional cost. An evening program is also available.
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Accommodation aboard the overnight train is in two-berth cabins which convert to bunk beds. All bedding is provided on board and western-style toilets are located in each carriage. Keep in mind general train cleanliness may not be to the same standards you are accustomed to.
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In Wadi Rum we stay in a permanent tented camp with shared bathroom facilities.
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Jordan, Israel & The Palestinian Territories are by no means a cheap destinations and you should budget accordingly. The good news is that your expert local leader is on hand to help you uncover the best deals!
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Known as 'baksheesh' in the Middle East, tipping is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry. If you are satisfied with the services provided a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate and always appreciated. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. Don’t be taken back if this tipping culture is even more apparent in Israel.
Gallery
Itinerary
Arrive at Cairo International Airport and be transferred to your hotel. This is simply an arrival day, so you may arrive in Cairo at any time. Note that hotel rooms are generally only available after midday. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city, but an important welcome meeting will be held at 6 pm this evening. Please check the hotel reception for details. Cairo is one of the great cities of antiquity and its history can perhaps be symbolised by two imposing landmarks - the Pyramids of Giza and the Mosque of Mohammed Ali. In free time perhaps get out and explore the busy streets of this city of contrasts, where you can see donkey carts and expensive cars, medieval slums and modern shopping malls.
Accommodation
- Novotel El Borg or Similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
- Urban Adventures - Downtown Cairo Tour - USD45
- Urban Adventures -Half Day Pyramids Adventure - USD67
- Urban Adventures - Islamic Cairo in Depth Tour - USD53
- Urban Adventures - Alexandria City Discovery - USD133
- Cairo - Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids (entry fee) - EGP1100
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.Special Information
An airport arrival transfer is included. This transfer is only valid if arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-trip accommodation through Peregrine. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 15 days prior to travel (note - we may not be able confirm request made within 15 days of travel). Once you have provided your details a transfer representative will be booked to meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.Please note that your hotel for the tonight, usually the Novotel El Borg, is a dry hotel. However there are a number of great options to grab a drink and a meal in the surrounding Zamalek area.
This morning after breakfast drive out to Giza, home to perhaps the greatest iconic structures ever created by man - the Pyramids and the Sphinx. Instantly familiar yet retaining a mystique and power, getting up close to these incredible pharaonic tombs is captivating. For an additional charge you may be able to go inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu (or Cheops), although occasionally it may be closed to visitors. The Egyptian Museum is simply one of the world's great museums, home to a stupendous collection of antiquities and the perfect introduction to your tour, exhibiting many of the region's treasures. You will head there after lunch and your expert guide will take you through Egypt's rich and fascinating dynastic history. You will then have some free time to explore on your own; you may wish to visit the Royal Mummy Room (optional and at extra cost). Afterwards you will return to your hotel, where there is plenty of time to freshen up before you are transferred to the railway station for the overnight sleeper train to Luxor.
Accommodation
- Sleeper Train (1 night)
Included Activities
- Cairo - The Egyptian Museum
- Cairo - The Egyptian Museum headset
- Cairo - Pyramids and Sphinx
Optional Activities
- Cairo - The 2nd Pyramid of Khafre (entry fee) - EGP100
- Cairo - The Great Pyramid of Cheops (entry fee) - EGP400
- Cairo - The Egyptian Museum Mummy Room (entry fee) - EGP150
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Special Information
Accommodation aboard the overnight train is in two-berth cabins which convert to bunk beds. All bedding is provided on board and western-style toilets are located in each carriage. Your bags will be stored in your cabin, where airline-style dinner and breakfast will be served. However it may be worth bringing some additional snacks, especially if you are vegetarian or have dietary requirements. Your tour leader can help you to arrange this. Despite being a tourist class train facilities are basic. Please also keep in mind general train cleanliness may not be to the same standards you are accustomed to.
After an early breakfast on board, the train rolls into Luxor. It's a vibrant place with an excellent bazaar, situated close to some of ancient Egypt's most important and extraordinary sights. Travel to Karnak, one of the world's most celebrated temple complexes, built over a period of some 200 years, and some of it dating back to 2055 BC. Your guided tour of the temple reveals its finest sections. Later you will be transferred to your Nile cruise boat, which will be your home for the next four nights. You can relax by the pool on the boat or explore the town. For the rest of the afternoon and evening you will be free to relax, shop in the bazaar (open until quite late) or perhaps experience the atmosphere of a local tea house.
Accommodation
- Riverboat (Feature Stay) (1 night)
Included Activities
- Luxor - Karnak Temple
Optional Activities
- Luxor - Sound and Light Show at Karnak (Entry) - EGP300
- Luxor - Luxor Museum (Entry) - EGP140
- Luxor - Luxor Temple (entry fee) - EGP160
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Special Information
Please note that audits were carried out on balloon operators within Egypt to confirm the safety of their operations, unfortunately we were not able to ascertain the safety standards of these balloon operators therefore, we are not able to recommend or assist in the booking of any balloon excursions.
Rise early this morning and head into the Valley of the Kings. Buried under the arid hills here are over 60 tombs of pharaohs, many richly decorated with reliefs and paintings. Explore this sprawling and spectacular place where discoveries are still being made. Tutankhamun's final resting place is also located here, and you'll have free time to visit it. Your guide will explain the funerary rites of the ancient Egyptians and significance of the many paintings and hieroglyphics. You will visit three royal tombs and then continue to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, set in a spectacular natural amphitheatre. Your final stop is the Colossi of Memnon – giant statues that were once part of an impressive colonnade. Enjoy lunch upon your return to the boat. There is time to relax on deck or in your cabin before you set sail for Edfu. Generally the journey from Luxor to Edfu is from 1 pm to 11 pm. Departure time may vary, depending on river traffic – please refer to the Essential Trip Information regarding cruise schedules in the 'Other Information' section. You will pass through Esna Lock, which can sometimes be a slow process depending on the number of vessels waiting to get through, and continue your journey upstream.
Accommodation
- Riverboat (Feature Stay) (1 night)
Included Activities
- Luxor - Hatshepsut Temple
- Luxor - Valley of the Kings (3 tombs)
- Luxor - Tut Ank Amon Tomb
Optional Activities
- Luxor - Valley of the Queens (entry fee) - EGP100
- Luxor - Medinat Habu Temple (entry fee) - EGP60
- Luxor - Deir el Madina - EGP80
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Morning finds you moored near Edfu, a beautifully preserved temple dedicated to Horus. Please see the special information below regarding visiting the temple.Continue travelling upriver, relaxing on the sundeck and taking in the surrounding sights – desert hills forming a backdrop to lush riverbanks, fishermen casting their nets and farmers working their land. This afternoon we will arrive at Kom Ombo temple (about 45 km north of Aswan city) which sits picturesquely ruined on the river's edge and provides an interesting insight into the Greco-Roman period. The temple was built in approximately 181BC and is dedicated to 2 Gods: Horus the protection god and Sobek fertility god linked to the Nile Water . The temple consists of 2 identical northern sections the North and South each dedicated to either god. In the Sobek section recent discoveries have been made of mummified Crocodiles, which are now displayed in the Crocodile museum attached to the temple - don't miss it! Board your boat again at around 6 pm and continue to Aswan, arriving at around 9.30 pm.
Accommodation
- Riverboat (Feature Stay) (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Special Information
The only mode of transport available to visit the Edfu temple 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 including the visit the Edfu Temple.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.
Explore Aswan today, Egypt's southernmost city. Its easygoing charm is due in no small part to its large Nubian population. Depending on your arrival time, you may visit the beautiful Temple of Isis (the Goddess of health, marriage and wisdom) that was rescued from the rising waters of the Nile and relocated on Philae Island (alternatively you will visit it tomorrow). It's a marvel of decorative pylons featuring some of Egypt's finest carvings – definitely one of the real gems of Upper Egypt. Access to the temple is by small motorboats. The rest of your day will be free to wander, and Aswan is a great place for it. The Nubian Bazaar is a must, while the excellent Nubian Museum is recommended by many. The waterfront promenade, or Aswan's 'corniche', runs alongside one of Nile's most appealing stretches and is the perfect place to stop for a mint tea. Watch the waterfront come alive at dusk, as families are out strolling, socialising and relaxing along the corniche.
Accommodation
- Riverboat (Feature Stay) (1 night)
Included Activities
- Kom Ombo - Kom Ombo Temple
- Aswan - Philae Temple
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
We depart early this morning to visit the iconic Abu Simbel by plane. With the four gargantuan statues of Ramses guarding the Great Temple, this is one of Egypt's most memorable sights. The rest of the day is free for you to make your own discoveries. A popular afternoon option in Aswan is a sailboat ride around the islands in a traditional felucca, stopping off at the botanical gardens on Kitchener's Island. Alternatively travel to the Monastery of St Simeon, an abandoned seventh-century fortress monastery located in the desert on the Nile's west bank. Your tour leader will be on hand to help you arrange any excursions. Alternatively, you may prefer to simply relax by the hotel pool or do some shopping in the local bazaar. In the evening you will visit a Nubian village and enjoy the warm hospitality (and cuisine) of these locals. You will also be treated to some Nubian dancing, and may even have the chance to try some moves yourself.
Accommodation
- Hotel Basma or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Abu Simbel - Abu Simbel temples
- Abu Simbel - Flights to and from Abu Simbel
Optional Activities
- Aswan - Unfinished Obelisk (entrance only) - EGP80
- Aswan - Nubian Museum (entry fee) - EGP140
- Aswan - Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple (entry fee) - EGP300
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Special Information
Your included flight to Abu Simbel will be at around 7 am from Aswan. You will have two hours on site which includes transport to and from the temple. Expected arrival back to Aswan is midday. Due to flight scheduling and availability, these times may change.On rare occasions the group may be split over several flights OR this included activity may take place yesterday. If this occurs an additional local guide is contracted to ensure that full guiding services are included at the temple for the entire group.
After breakfast you will be transferred to Aswan airport for the short flight back to Cairo (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes) where you will be met and taken to your hotel. Today you will dive into another layer of Egyptian history: medieval Cairo. Head to Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo's oldest mosque and the Gayer-Anderson Museum. The 'Khan', sprawling around an old area known as Al-Azhar, is a quintessentially Cairo experience – a warren of alleys with stalls serving up a succession of intoxicating scenes. It retains a distinctly medieval feel. You will explore the gold market, 'perfume street' and the spice market, where heady aromas hang in the air like a thick blanket of Damascene cloth (which can be purchased next door in the cloth market). The gorgeous 9th-century Ibn Tulun Mosque is one of the oldest and largest in Egypt, possibly its most beautiful too. Its perfectly proportioned courtyard and distinctive minaret make it a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Nearby stands the Gayer-Anderson Museum, housed in two fine old villas and vaunting a fascinating collection of Arabic artefacts, furniture and memorabilia. Also don't miss the chance to drink Arabic coffee or mint tea from Cairo's oldest cafe, it has a long history and fantastic atmosphere. This evening you will get to share an authentic Egyptian meal with a local family. Visit a family home, chat with the local family members about life in the Middle East, and learn some of your favourite traditional Egyptian dishes while enjoying a delicious dinner
Accommodation
- Novotel El Borg or Similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Cairo - Gayer Anderson
- Cairo - Home Cooked Meal
- Cairo - Khan al-Khalili Bazaar
- Cairo - Ibn Tulun Mosque
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Special Information
For the flight from Aswan to Cairo, the baggage allowance is up to 23 kilos for checked in luggage and 7 kilos for carry on baggage, subject to the airline's discretion.
This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Amman. On arrival you will be met at the airport and taken to your hotel in Amman. Cosmopolitan and contemporary, yet steeped in biblical history, Amman has served as both the modern and ancient capital of Jordan. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a 1994 excavation uncovering homes and towers believed to have been built during the Stone Age (circa 7000 BC). Enjoy a free afternoon to maybe head to the Old Town’s Roman Amphitheatre, find fine culture at the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts, look down on the city from the hilltop Temple of Hercules, or relax in a Turkish bath house. Soak up the atmosphere as you sip mint tea in a cafe. Meet your new leader and group tonight at a welcome meeting at 6 pm. As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group may change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and you're welcome to attend, as this is a great chance to meet your new fellow travellers.
Accommodation
- Sulaf Luxury Hotel Amman or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
As you are arriving to Jordan on one of our combination tours the visa entry fee for Jordan will not be required to be paid on arrival. You will be met by a Peregrine Representative who will attend to custom formalities, and transfer you to your hotel.
After breakfast you will be drive from Amman to Wadi Rum (appx 4.5hour drive).
After lunch in the small village of Rum and a browse around the excellent and informative visitor's centre, jump into rickety old but safe and reliable jeeps operated by the Bedouin Community and join our Bedouin friends as we journey into the Rum. You will visit several of Wadi Rum's distinctive rock formations and soak in the vast silence and spectacular desert landscapes. Wadi Rum is a truly beautiful place with towering sandstone mountains.
Continue to your traditional Bedouin tent situated deep within Wadi Rum. The Bedouins live in scattered camps throughout the area. You will enjoy an evening with them at one of their camps, which is set in an amazing location.
Wadi Rum is probably best known for 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.
After lunch in the small village of Rum and a browse around the excellent and informative visitor's centre, jump into rickety old but safe and reliable jeeps operated by the Bedouin Community and join our Bedouin friends as we journey into the Rum. You will visit several of Wadi Rum's distinctive rock formations and soak in the vast silence and spectacular desert landscapes. Wadi Rum is a truly beautiful place with towering sandstone mountains.
Continue to your traditional Bedouin tent situated deep within Wadi Rum. The Bedouins live in scattered camps throughout the area. You will enjoy an evening with them at one of their camps, which is set in an amazing location.
Wadi Rum is probably best known for 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.
Accommodation
- Desert Nights Camp (Feature Stay) (1 night)
Included Activities
- Wadi Rum - Desert Jeep tour
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Special Information
Here we stay in permanent Bedouin style tents with modern conveniences including private bathrooms and hot water.Tents are luxuriously furnished complete with comfortable king-size or twin beds, Bedouin sofa, mirrors, lamps, and the finest bed linens. All the furniture is hand-made. There is cosy relaxation area outside the tent to watch the stars at night. Electricity is provided in the guest tents in the evenings via solar power. Each tent has a private terrace with a fantastic view over the Wadi Rum Mountains.
Accommodation Changes
It is often difficult to secure our preferred camp in Wadi Rum our alternative Camp is Memories Aicha Luxury Camp. If you would like to confirm in advance which camp is available for your tour please check with your booking agent 30 days prior to departure.
After waking up in the unique surrounds of the Bedouin camp this morning, you will enjoy a walk around the area (the length of the walk will depend on how energetic you are feeling) before scaling one of the large dunes to enjoy sensational views of the surrounding area. Keen photographers will be delighted.
You will then take 4WDs from your camp back to the main entrance, which is opposite the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, the mountain named after Lawrence of Arabia’s book. The visitor's centre here is also a great spot to buy some jewellery and handicrafts, mostly made by a women's co-operative that is aimed at supporting traditional local industries.
You will then continue your journey to the fabled city of Petra (approximately 2.5 hours). On arrival there is time in the afternoon to check out the town that has grown up around the site, and to just relax… ready for a big day of exploring Petra tomorrow.
You will then take 4WDs from your camp back to the main entrance, which is opposite the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, the mountain named after Lawrence of Arabia’s book. The visitor's centre here is also a great spot to buy some jewellery and handicrafts, mostly made by a women's co-operative that is aimed at supporting traditional local industries.
You will then continue your journey to the fabled city of Petra (approximately 2.5 hours). On arrival there is time in the afternoon to check out the town that has grown up around the site, and to just relax… ready for a big day of exploring Petra tomorrow.
Accommodation
- Petra Moon Hotel or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
- Petra - Petra By Night tour - JOD17
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Special Information
Accommodation ChangesPetra is a small and busy city with limited hotel options so it is often difficult to secure our preferred hotel in this destination. Alternative hotels in Petra may include Old Village Resort, P Quattro Relax or Hyatt Zaman. If you would like to confirm in advance which hotel is allocated to your tour please check with your booking agent 30 days prior to departure.
Optional Activities
Petra by Night runs every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday of each week, starts at 20:30 from Petra Visitor Centre and delivers you back to the Visitor Centre around 22.30pm.
Petra is justifiably on most people’s list of ‘must-visit’ places. It is the jewel of Jordan, the lost city of the biblical Nabateans, an impressive series of tombs and dwellings hidden behind ornate facades carved directly into the rock. Dating back to the 6th century BC, the site was lost to Western minds until it was rediscovered in 1812 by a Swiss explorer.
The iconic Petra view – the Treasury's glorious facade, glimpsed from the narrow cleft known as the Siq – is arguably the single most striking sight of the entire region. The first taste of this exquisite craftsmanship among such stark scenery is a moment that manages to be both eagerly anticipated and also an almost surreal surprise. The Siq leads through the rock and is sometimes only a few metres wide, with walls soaring up to 180 metres on either side, and it is impossible not to imagine the armies and traders who made their way down here in the ancient times. Petra's greatest surprise, however, is its size. With your guide you will explore the old Roman road, amphitheatre and several old tombs. You will also climb up to the second beautiful façade of the Monastery, from where you will have a magnificent view of the entire site.
This is a memorable day exploring a truly extraordinary destination, a highlight of your trip. There is a cafeteria on the site, where you can enjoy a light lunch.
The rest of the day will be at your leisure – perhaps take the chance to witness Petra by night. Seeing the Treasury plaza lit up by flickering candle light while Bedouin music plays is a magical experience.
The iconic Petra view – the Treasury's glorious facade, glimpsed from the narrow cleft known as the Siq – is arguably the single most striking sight of the entire region. The first taste of this exquisite craftsmanship among such stark scenery is a moment that manages to be both eagerly anticipated and also an almost surreal surprise. The Siq leads through the rock and is sometimes only a few metres wide, with walls soaring up to 180 metres on either side, and it is impossible not to imagine the armies and traders who made their way down here in the ancient times. Petra's greatest surprise, however, is its size. With your guide you will explore the old Roman road, amphitheatre and several old tombs. You will also climb up to the second beautiful façade of the Monastery, from where you will have a magnificent view of the entire site.
This is a memorable day exploring a truly extraordinary destination, a highlight of your trip. There is a cafeteria on the site, where you can enjoy a light lunch.
The rest of the day will be at your leisure – perhaps take the chance to witness Petra by night. Seeing the Treasury plaza lit up by flickering candle light while Bedouin music plays is a magical experience.
Accommodation
- Petra Moon Hotel or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
After a very early start for those in the group who wish to visit Petra a second time, we drive to the ancient Crusader castle at Shobak, which was 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. Enjoy superb scenery and stop off at the view point overlooking the Dana nature reserve before arriving in the late afternoon at the Dead Sea Spa Hotel, where we spend the evening. Named for the dearth of life in its waters, this lake is so intensely salty that the density of the water makes swimming and getting underneath the surface very difficult.
Accommodation
- Dead Sea Spa Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
- Petra - Petra second day visit (unguided)
- Shobak - Shobak Castle
- Dana - Ancient Village Visit
- Dead Sea - Visit Including Dinner
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Please note that Kerak Castle is not included in your tour, as it is often very congested and busy. However, if there is sufficient interest among members of the group, your leader can also arrange an optional visit to Kerak Castle. Many travellers, however, prefer to spend extra time in Amman.
After a relaxing morning spent at the Dead Sea; perhaps use the facilities of the hotel or of course no visit is complete without taking a dip like no other – the warm, highly saline waters make swimming difficult but bobbing on the water's surface is a unique pleasure.
After lunch, we depart the Dead Sea for Mount Nebo, considered to be where Moses saw the Promised Landed before he died, the modest Church here with foundations dating back to 4thcentury houses some of the best mosaics in Jordan. Continue to Madaba “The City of Mosaics” and a stop at St Georges Church best known for its Byzantine mosaic depicting a map of the Holy Land.
We spend the evening of day six in Amman.
After lunch, we depart the Dead Sea for Mount Nebo, considered to be where Moses saw the Promised Landed before he died, the modest Church here with foundations dating back to 4thcentury houses some of the best mosaics in Jordan. Continue to Madaba “The City of Mosaics” and a stop at St Georges Church best known for its Byzantine mosaic depicting a map of the Holy Land.
We spend the evening of day six in Amman.
Accommodation
- Sulaf Luxury Hotel Amman or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Madaba - St Georges Church
- Mt Nebo - Mt Nebo visit
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Today you will leave Amman for a short drive north (approximately 1 hour) to Jerash, once one of the grandest ancient Roman cities in the world. These are some of the best ruins Greco-Roman ruins around. Reaching its zenith as a favourite of the emperor Hadrian, it has a striking collection of archways and theatres, baths, public buildings and colonnaded streets, and is a beautiful place to spend a morning exploring. Grand ionic columns encircle the city's centrepiece, the Oval Plaza, a wonderfully atmospheric place to linger after exploring Jerash's riches.
Afterwards you will return to Amman for the evening (approximately 1 hour). Maybe spend your final night at one of the many bars and restaurants in West Amman, or ask your leader about the traditional cafes dotted around the city where locals spend their evenings.
Afterwards you will return to Amman for the evening (approximately 1 hour). Maybe spend your final night at one of the many bars and restaurants in West Amman, or ask your leader about the traditional cafes dotted around the city where locals spend their evenings.
Accommodation
- Sulaf Luxury Hotel Amman or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Jerash - Roman ruins
Meals Included
- Breakfast
This morning you will cross the border between Jordan and Israel. Please see special information for more details on the border crossing.Once you have completed your border formalities you will be transferred to your hotel in Jerusalem.Tonight you will meet your new leader and the rest of the group at a welcome meeting. As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group will change at this location.
There will be a group meeting at 6.00pm this evening to meet your Leader and fellow travellers.
There will be a group meeting at 6.00pm this evening to meet your Leader and fellow travellers.
Accommodation
- St Georges Guest House or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Border Crossing: you will transfer to the Allenby Bridge border crossing in private transport with your Jordanian Leader. On arrival a VIP crossing service has been arranged for you, after departure formalities with Jordanian customs there will be private transport to transfer you the 6km to the Israel and Palestine border after clearing customs on arrival your Peregrine transfer representative will collect you and transfer you to the hotel in Jerusalem. This crossing is unaccompanied. On arrival in Israel due to current border regulations it may be difficult to see your Leader and or Driver. Please be patient and they will collect you once they have been made aware of your arrival. If after five -ten minutes you can not locate our representative then please have the border officials call the number below.
Meet your leader for a morning walk start at St Stephen’s Gate (also known as Lion’s Gate) to enter the Old City, and visit the crusader church of St Anne and the Pool of Bethesda. Now located in the Muslim Quarter of Jerusalem, this pool was mentioned in the Gospel of John and is associated with healing. Walk along the Way of the Cross (Via Dolorosa) – the 'way of sorrows' which follows Jesus’ path to crucifixion – and stop by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, built where Jesus is believed to have been crucified and buried before rising again.
Walk along the ‘Cardo’ in the recently restored Jewish Quarter, which was a road that ran the entire length of the city in Byzantine times. Visit the Wailing Wall – the remains of the Temple Mount, which acts as an outdoor synagogue, where written prayers are slid into the cracks between stones.
The rest of the afternoon is free for you to wander around the city at your leisure.
Meet up with your group again later in the afternoon and head back into the Old City. This evening we will be the guests of a local Christian family living in the Old City, an opportunity to enjoy a meal together and some informal discussion on Christianity in the holy city.
Walk along the ‘Cardo’ in the recently restored Jewish Quarter, which was a road that ran the entire length of the city in Byzantine times. Visit the Wailing Wall – the remains of the Temple Mount, which acts as an outdoor synagogue, where written prayers are slid into the cracks between stones.
The rest of the afternoon is free for you to wander around the city at your leisure.
Meet up with your group again later in the afternoon and head back into the Old City. This evening we will be the guests of a local Christian family living in the Old City, an opportunity to enjoy a meal together and some informal discussion on Christianity in the holy city.
Accommodation
- St Georges Guest House or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Jerusalem - Western Wall (Wailing Wall)
- Jerusalem - Walk the Via Dolorosa
- Jerusalem - Holy Sepulchre
- Jerusalem - Local Family Dinner Old City Jerusalem
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Bound for Masada, drive via the biblical town of Ma'aleh Adumim and the Inn of the Good Samaritan in the Judean Desert. The Inn of the Good Samaritan is a museum located near the site of the inn mentioned in the New Testament's parable of the Good Samaritan, and it displays mosaics and artefacts discovered throughout Israel.
In Masada you will take a cable car to discover the spectacular cliff-top fortress of Masada, built by King Herod around 35BC. This UNESCO site is very important to the Jewish people, a symbol of their exile from the Holy Land and of bravery and self sacrifice. Afterwards, drive to an archaeological site on the West Bank, about a mile from the north shore of the Dead Sea. Major discoveries have been made here in Qumran, not the least of which is the Dead Sea Scrolls. Here you will also have a chance to float in the extremely salty and buoyant Dead Sea.
Continue up the shore to the town of Jericho. Discover this slow-paced town in the West Bank, where people have lived for 11,000 years. On a drive around the city see the Mount of Temptations (where Jesus was tempted by the devil) and a Sycamore Tree mentioned only in the Gospel of Luke.
Return to Jerusalem and meet up with a local Rabbi discover Jewish traditions and gain a different perspective on the Israeli / Palestine conflict.
In Masada you will take a cable car to discover the spectacular cliff-top fortress of Masada, built by King Herod around 35BC. This UNESCO site is very important to the Jewish people, a symbol of their exile from the Holy Land and of bravery and self sacrifice. Afterwards, drive to an archaeological site on the West Bank, about a mile from the north shore of the Dead Sea. Major discoveries have been made here in Qumran, not the least of which is the Dead Sea Scrolls. Here you will also have a chance to float in the extremely salty and buoyant Dead Sea.
Continue up the shore to the town of Jericho. Discover this slow-paced town in the West Bank, where people have lived for 11,000 years. On a drive around the city see the Mount of Temptations (where Jesus was tempted by the devil) and a Sycamore Tree mentioned only in the Gospel of Luke.
Return to Jerusalem and meet up with a local Rabbi discover Jewish traditions and gain a different perspective on the Israeli / Palestine conflict.
Accommodation
- St Georges Guest House or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Qumran - Archaeological site visit
- Masada - Dead Sea & Fortress visit
- Jerusalem - Local Rabbi Meeting and Discussion
Meals Included
- Breakfast
In the morning, drive out to visit the Garden of Gethsemane, most famous as the place where Jesus prayed and his disciples slept the night before Jesus' crucifixion. See the Church of All Nations (also known as the Basilica of the Agony), which holds inside a section of bedrock where Jesus is said to have prayed before his arrest. Continue to Yad Vashem for a sobering and moving visit to Israel’s memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. Our local leaders are not permitted to guide in this museum, so you will have a tour with a local guide which will take approximately 2–3 hours.
Even the non-religious have no doubt heard of Bethlehem, even if it’s just through Christmas Nativity plays. Visit the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, marking the spot of the stable where Mary is said to have given birth to Jesus, and the Shepherds’ Fields in Beit Sahour just a couple of kilometres east of the city. This area has been identified as the scene where angels visited the lowly shepherds and informed them of Jesus’ birth. The Roman Catholics and the Greek Orthodox each have their own Shepherds’ Field. The Roman Catholic site features a Franciscan Chapel designed to resemble the shepherds’ tent, while the Greek Orthodox site features a 5th-century church built over a cave.
Even the non-religious have no doubt heard of Bethlehem, even if it’s just through Christmas Nativity plays. Visit the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, marking the spot of the stable where Mary is said to have given birth to Jesus, and the Shepherds’ Fields in Beit Sahour just a couple of kilometres east of the city. This area has been identified as the scene where angels visited the lowly shepherds and informed them of Jesus’ birth. The Roman Catholics and the Greek Orthodox each have their own Shepherds’ Field. The Roman Catholic site features a Franciscan Chapel designed to resemble the shepherds’ tent, while the Greek Orthodox site features a 5th-century church built over a cave.
Accommodation
- Hosh Al Syrian Guesthouse (Feature Stay) (1 night)
Included Activities
- Jerusalem - Garden of Gethsemane & Basilica of the Agony
- Jerusalem - Yad Vashem Museum
- Jerusalem - Mount of Olives
- Bethlehem - Church of the Nativity & Shepherds' Field
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Travel to Tiberias and take a boat ride across the Sea of Galilee (weather permitting), and afterwards visit Tabgha. This is where the Bible says Jesus performed the Miracle of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes, one of the only miracles that’s in all the gospels. Here you can see the church and its ancient mosaics that were built to mark the spot of the miracle. A short way up the lakeshore is Capernaum; see the ruins of this old fishing town, the site of two ancient synagogues and a church said to have been the home of Saint Peter. Here you will have the traditional St Peter’s Fish lunch. The name 'St Peter's Fish' comes from a story in the Gospel of Matthew about the apostle Peter catching a fish that carried a coin in its mouth. Also visit the Church of the Annunciation, where Mary received the news of the Immaculate Conception, along with the well where she drew water every day.
Continue to Haifa for the evening, perhaps take a late after stroll through the Baha’i Gardens. With 19 terraces flowing down to a domed shrine; the final resting place of the prophet-herald of the Baha’i faith, these gardens are considered Haifas crowning glory.
Continue to Haifa for the evening, perhaps take a late after stroll through the Baha’i Gardens. With 19 terraces flowing down to a domed shrine; the final resting place of the prophet-herald of the Baha’i faith, these gardens are considered Haifas crowning glory.
Accommodation
- The Colony Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Tiberias - Church of the Multiplication
- Tiberias - Sea of Galilee boat ride
- Tiberias - traditional St Peter's Fish lunch
- Nazareth - Visit to Church of Annuniciation & Mary's Well
- Bahai Gardens - view & photo stop only
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Today as you make your way to Tel Aviv, stop at the former crusader port and capital of Acre. Here you’ll visit the vast complex of buildings occupied by the Knights of St John (Knights Hospitaller), excavated to uncover rooms such as a large hall, a dungeon, a dining room and the crypt of an ancient Gothic church. You will also see the secret tunnel of their rivals, the Knights Templar – an underground passage between their fortresses.
Visit Caesarea, which served as the capital of Israel during the Roman and Byzantine eras. This was once a great port town built by King Herod around 25BC, complete with a theatre, amphitheatre, hippodrome, palace, Roman temple and an extensive network of aqueducts, along with an artificial harbour. The city was eventually abandoned and lost under the desert sands, but thanks to archaeological excavations since the 1950s, its splendour is on show once again.
Arrive in Tel Aviv and spend the afternoon discovering the city with your Leader, visit the Old City of Jaffa, the Peace Square and partake in some Hummus tasting, the city claims to have the best.
Arrive at the hotel late in the afternoon and bid your Leader farewell.
Visit Caesarea, which served as the capital of Israel during the Roman and Byzantine eras. This was once a great port town built by King Herod around 25BC, complete with a theatre, amphitheatre, hippodrome, palace, Roman temple and an extensive network of aqueducts, along with an artificial harbour. The city was eventually abandoned and lost under the desert sands, but thanks to archaeological excavations since the 1950s, its splendour is on show once again.
Arrive in Tel Aviv and spend the afternoon discovering the city with your Leader, visit the Old City of Jaffa, the Peace Square and partake in some Hummus tasting, the city claims to have the best.
Arrive at the hotel late in the afternoon and bid your Leader farewell.
Accommodation
- Cinema Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Akko - Templar Tunnels
- Caesarea - Guided Visit
- Tel Aviv - Walking Tour and Hummus Tasting
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Your journey through Israel & the Palestinian Territories comes to an end today after breakfast.
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Due to strict security measures, we recommend that you allow 3 hours minimum to get through airport security before your flight departureMeals
21 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 11 dinnersTransport
Private Bus, Riverboat, Sleeper train, Jeep Boat, PlaneAccommodation
Comfortable Hotel (14 nights) Overnight train (1 night), Riverboat (4 nights - Feature Stay Egypt), Luxury Desert Camp (1 night - Feature Stay Jordan), Guesthouse (1 night Feature Stay Bethlehem)Included Activities
- Cairo - The Egyptian Museum
- Cairo - The Egyptian Museum headset
- Cairo - Pyramids and Sphinx
- Luxor - Karnak Temple
- Luxor - Hatshepsut Temple
- Luxor - Valley of the Kings (3 tombs)
- Luxor - Tut Ank Amon Tomb
- Kom Ombo - Kom Ombo Temple
- Aswan - Philae Temple
- Abu Simbel - Abu Simbel temples
- Abu Simbel - Flights to and from Abu Simbel
- Cairo - Gayer Anderson
- Cairo - Home Cooked Meal
- Cairo - Khan al-Khalili Bazaar
- Cairo - Ibn Tulun Mosque
- Wadi Rum - Desert Jeep tour
- Petra - Petra second day visit (unguided)
- Shobak - Shobak Castle
- Dana - Ancient Village Visit
- Dead Sea - Visit Including Dinner
- Madaba - St Georges Church
- Mt Nebo - Mt Nebo visit
- Jerash - Roman ruins
- Jerusalem - Western Wall (Wailing Wall)
- Jerusalem - Walk the Via Dolorosa
- Jerusalem - Holy Sepulchre
- Jerusalem - Local Family Dinner Old City Jerusalem
- Qumran - Archaeological site visit
- Masada - Dead Sea & Fortress visit
- Jerusalem - Local Rabbi Meeting and Discussion
- Jerusalem - Garden of Gethsemane & Basilica of the Agony
- Jerusalem - Yad Vashem Museum
- Jerusalem - Mount of Olives
- Bethlehem - Church of the Nativity & Shepherds' Field
- Tiberias - Church of the Multiplication
- Tiberias - Sea of Galilee boat ride
- Tiberias - traditional St Peter's Fish lunch
- Nazareth - Visit to Church of Annuniciation & Mary's Well
- Bahai Gardens - view & photo stop only
- Akko - Templar Tunnels
- Caesarea - Guided Visit
- Tel Aviv - Walking Tour and Hummus Tasting
Important notes
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT:
A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
HOTEL SELECTION
On occasions, it may be not be possible to confirm our preferred hotels. For this reason we have selected alternative hotels on selected departures in Wadi Rum, Petra and Jerusalem If you would like to confirm which hotel your trip will be staying please contact your booking agent 30 days prior to departure.
ITINERARY
Petra by night is offered as an optional activity, this activity is currently scheduled to operate on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, please check your departure date if you are planning this activity as it is not available on all departures
The Flight from Cairo to Amman and the land border transfer from Amman to Jerusalem is unaccompanied.
You will have three Peregrine Leaders on this trip each one is local to the destination.
INTERNAL FLIGHTS:
As there are internal flights included in this tour, please check that the passenger names are as per passport.
On Day 8 there is an included internal flight from Aswan to Cairo. The maximum check-in baggage allowance is 23kgs per person plus 7kgs hand luggage.
On Day 9 there is an included international flight from Cairo to Amman. The maximum check-in baggage allowance is 23kgs per person plus 7kgs hand luggage.
SAFETY ADVICE:
Following recent safety incidents we recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest information on travelling in Egypt & Israel (particularly within the West Bank) before your departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all areas of your itinerary. We have links to prominent government travel advisories and regular updates on issues affecting this trip on our Travel Alerts page - http://www.peregrineadventures.com/en-au/travel-alerts
Essential trip information
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