Ancient Egypt, Jordan and Israel

Day 1

Arrive Cairo – Hyatt Regency West – Standard Room

Welcome to Egypt! On arrival in Cairo, you will be met with VIP assistance and transferred to your hotel.

Accommodations:

Hyatt Regency Cairo West boasts spectacular views over one of the world’s greatest wonders, the Giza Pyramids. Located in the midst of Cairo’s cultural and commercial hub, the hotel is a timeless infusion of culture and modernity.

Day 2

Sunday, August 28, 2022 Cairo – Hyatt Regency West – Standard Room Breakfast

After breakfast meet your Egyptologist and start a full day guided tour to visit the Pyramids, Sphinx, Saqqarra & Dahshour. The Pyramids of Giza were built for some of the mightiest Pharaohs - Cheops, Chephren and Mycerinus. The Great Pyramid of Giza remained the tallest man-made structure in the world for 3,800 years. The bases of the three Pyramids of Giza together cover more than a million square feet, roughly nine mid-town Manhattan blocks. Approach the pyramids by horseback.

The Sphinx, cut from the bedrock, has been restored with layers of blocks. It is the oldest known monumental sculptures in Egypt and is believed to have been built by ancient Egyptians of the Old Kingdom during the reign of the Pharaoh Khafre.

Enjoy lunch (payable direct) continue to Saqqara a vast, ancient burial ground in Egypt, serving as the necropolis for the Ancient Egyptian capital, Memphis. Saqqara features numerous pyramids, including the world-famous Step pyramid of Djoser, sometimes referred to as the Step Tomb due to its rectangular base, as well as a number of mastabas.

Last stop is Dahshur, a royal necropolis known chiefly for several pyramids, two of which are among the oldest, largest and best preserved in Egypt, built from 2613–2589 BC.

Day 3

Nile River – SS Sudan – Main Deck Cabin
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This morning you will be transferred to the Cairo Airport where you board a flight to Luxor. On arrival you will be transferred to your Nile cruise.

Settle in on board and into your cabin. Lunch on board. Afternoon visit Luxor’s east bank through the discovery of the Karnak Temple Complex, one of the largest sacred site in the world; it especially comprises the Temple of Amun, the patron deity of Karnak. Its construction lasted from the Middle Kingdom till the Ptoleamic Kingdom.

Visit the Temple of Luxor. Built under Amenophis III and extended under Ramesses II, the Temple of Luxor is the most elegant pharaonic building.

Sail towards Qena, located north of Luxor. Only a few ships sail this splendid stretch of the river Nile where you will be able to enjoy the sunset and admire both banks of the Nile.

Accommodations:

The Steam Ship Sudan, built at the end of the 19th century, is an authentic “Belle Époque” paddle steamer. Its broad teak decks, brassware and wood panelling are the stuff of romantic stories.

On board the Steam Ship Sudan you can take in the many faces of Egypt as they roll gently by. From emblematic sites to wild shores where soft green reeds and minarets spring up, a donkey cart trots quietly by and white ibis take to their wings.

The gangways exude a sweet aroma of beeswax, the woven palm furniture on the deck is the perfect place to daydream. A hushed atmosphere welcomes you in the lounge bar. Time seems to have stood still since the period when Agatha Christie and her characters travelled on board. The restaurant offers sophisticated cuisine and the staff, with legendary Egyptian hospitality, provides an impeccable service.

The 18 cabins and 5 suites combine a refined oriental style with classic 19th-century furnishings.

Day 4

Nile River – SS Sudan – Main Deck Cabin
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Early start (2 hours drive) to Abydos, a holy city and the cult centre of Osiris, regent of the Kingdom of the Dead and god of resurrection. From the Ancient Kingdom era, Abydos was an exceptional site of pilgrimage. The Temple of Seti I is a wonder with its colourful and fine bas-reliefs which mark the birth of Ramesside art.

Visit of the Temple of Dendera on the way back. Dendera is the name of the spectacular temple of Hathor, Goddess of love and joy, also known for protecting women and nursing Pharaohs. Secluded at the border of cultivated land and desert, with its richly decorated chapels, its Hathor-headed columns, its obscure corridors and stairs, the unique vestige of the ancient city of Dendera is one of the most famous best preserved monuments in Egypt and offers a splendid view of Upper-Egypt countryside from the roof.

Back on board for lunch. Relaxing afternoon sailing to Luxor. Dinner and overnight stay on board in Luxor.

Day 5

Nile River – SS Sudan – Main Deck Cabin
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

The morning is dedicated to the discovery of the Theban necropolis, land of mysteries and god Osiris home under the New Kingdom: the Valley of the Pharaohs, whose beautifully decorated tombs which tell us the travel of the deceased through the afterlife and visit the tomb of Ramses VI which measures 116 meters long ; the Valley of the Queens, secret necropolis of the royal wives and visit the tomb of Nefertari, the best known of the wives of Ramses VI (according to the affluence, this visit is not guaranteed); the Valley of the Nobles, which is the necropolis of officials, high dignitaries and the court in general, who did not come from royalty and visit the tomb of Ramose ; the Valley of Craftsmen known as Deir el-Medina, created to welcome the sculptors, painters and stonemasons who worked on the necropolises. King Tut entry included.

Then you join the boat for lunch. Navigation towards Esna, then Edfu. Dinner on board.

Day 6

Nile River – SS Sudan – Main Deck Cabin
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Morning visit of the Temple of Edfu. Dedicated to Horus and Hathor, its construction started during the 3rd Century BC under the Ptolemaic Dynasty and was completed 170 years later; it’s one of the best preserved building of Ancient Egypt.

Back on board and sailing to Kom Ombo for sunset. Evening visit of the Temple of Kom Ombo, a unique architectural and religious type of complex in Egypt as it was dedicated to two divinities. Two temples are gathered on the same site. The south part is dedicated to Horus, the Falcon God and the north part to Sobek, the Crocodile God.

Overnight on board.

Day 7

Nile River – SS Sudan – Main Deck Cabin
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Sailing to Aswan at the end of the Nile Valley, where ancient Nubia begins. Large sandy banks are slowly replacing cultivated land along the Nile. This is where civilisation once ended. From the 3rd Century, Elephantine Island was a trading centre. Nubia (which means gold in Nubian) had a rich soil, providing to Egypt not only gold but also soldiers, precious woods and ivory.

Visit of the Temple of Philae, home to Isis, Goddess of marriage, fertility, motherhood, magic and medicine who ruled over life, death and resurrection. Philae was one of the most important sanctuary in Egypt and Nubia till 550 AD, when Byzantine emperor Justinian ordered its closing.
Free time in Aswan before dinner.

Overnight stay in Aswan.

Day 8

Cairo – Kempinski Nile – Deluxe Nile Room
Breakfast

This morning disembark in Aswan and transfer to the airport for a flight to Abu Simbel. You will visit the magnificent rock- hewn temples of Ramesses II that of his Queen Nefertari. They were moved about 40 years ago, 200 feet above their original site, now inundated by Lake Nasser and re-housed in an artificial mountain which successfully re-creates their original setting.

Return to Aswan and board your flight to Cairo and transfer to your hotel.

Day 9

Alexandria – Steigenberger Cecil Alexandria – Classic Room
Breakfast and Lunch

This morning head to Alexandria. The Pearl of the Mediterranean is the second largest city in Egypt next to the famous and historic Cairo. Since its founding by Alexander the Great in 332 BC, Alexandria has always been known as a capital of historic culture and Mediterranean ambience.

Begin with a visit to the Catacomb of Kom El Shoqafa, an extensive three level funerary complex dating from the 2nd century A.D.

Visit the Pompey's Pillar, a red Aswan granite column over 80 feet tall with a circumference of almost 30 feet, which was constructed in honor of Emperor Diocletian.

In the afternoon visit the National Museum.

Accommodations:

Since its opening in 1929, Steigenberger Cecil Hotel in Alexandria has been known for its superb location right on the harbour. It is just a short walk to many of the city’s famous sights such as the Biblioteca Alexandrina (ca. 19 min.), the Alexandria National Museum (ca. 5 min.), and the Amphitheater (ca. 19 min.).

All rooms have separately programmable air conditioning, TV with international channels, a desk, safe, and minibar, as well as complimentary coffee and tea making facilities.

Day 10

Amman – Grand Hyatt Amman – Standard Room
Breakfast

This morning you will be transferred to the Cairo Airport where you board a flight to Amman, Jordan.

On arrival at Amman Airport our airport representative will meet you at immigration area and will assist you through customs and immigration. Transfer to your hotel.

Accommodations:

Grand Hyatt Amman is the perfect place for those who appreciate luxury and refinement; the hotel evokes the golden age of luxury travel. This luxurious address overlooks the sprawling metropolis that is the heart of Amman’s financial and diplomatic district.

Grand Hyatt Amman offers some of the most generously proportioned and elegantly renovated guest rooms in a contemporary setting. With 311 guest rooms, including 16 suites, the Grand Hyatt Amman offer guests truly Jordanian experience with its tastefully designed local touches.

Day 11

Amman – Grand Hyatt Amman – Standard Room
Breakfast

This morning begin your touring at Jerash, the site of the ruins of the Greco-Roman city of Gerasa, also referred to as Antioch on the Golden River.

Return to Amman and start your tour in the capital which will include a visit of the Citadel and the Roman Theatre in Amman, then enjoy a walking tour of downtown Amman to visit local markets and have some local food tasting (Falafel and Arabic Sweets).

Day 12

Petra – Movenpick Resort Petra – Standard Room
Breakfast

This morning check out of your hotel and head to Madaba: Best known for its spectacular Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, Madaba is home to the famous 6th century Mosaic Map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land. Continue to visit Mount Nebo, the mountaintop memorial of Moses with captivating views of the Jordan Valley, Dead Sea and The River Jordan.

Continue on the Kings highway to Petra.

Accommodations:

Gleaming against the red sandstone at the entrance to the renowned City of Petra is the Mövenpick Resort, one of the most distinct hotels in the Middle East. The resort includes luxurious marble floors and water features, stellar dining options and activities for guests of all ages. Surround yourself with modern conveniences and plush accommodations - history awaits you just next door.

Day 13

Petra – Movenpick Resort Petra – Standard Room
Breakfast

Today your visit of Petra will include the main sites such as the "Siq", a long winding fissure between two walls of overhanging cliffs, the "Khazneh" referred to as the Treasury, the Street of Facades, the Court House and the Amphitheater.

Day 14

Wadi Rum – Bubble Luxotel Wadi Rum – Bubble Suite
Breakfast and Dinner

Check out of your hotel and meet your guide for transfer to Wadi Rum where we will arrange for 4x4 jeep tour in the beautiful desert.

Accommodations:

Bubble Luxotel Wadi Rum is a unique experience at the desert of Wadi Rum. Step into a world of luxury, with extensive living space inside and out, and panoramic mountains view.

Day 15 and Day 16

Dead Sea – Movenpick Resort Dead Sea – Classic Room
Breakfast

After breakfast you will be transferred to the Dead Sea where the remainder of the day and the next are at leisure.

Accommodations: The luxury Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea is found in a traditional village setting nestled amongst lush gardens. The resort is set on the northern shores of the Dead Sea, at the lowest point on earth. With your well-being and balance in mind, this 5 star resort is an oasis of tranquillity.

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea offers nine trendy restaurants and bars on the Dead Sea. Explore a delectable variety of cuisines catering to all tastes from laid back al fresco dining to our traditional Italian restaurant.

Relax in the award-winning Arabian Dead Sea Zara Spa with breathtaking views of the healing waters. Offering world-class facilities on 6,000 square metres, you can be sure of ultimate spa luxury.

Day 17

Jerusalem – Leonardo Boutique Hotel – Standard Room
Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your Dead Sea Hotel, then check out and meet your driver for transfer to Allenby Bridge where you cross from Jordan to Israel. In Israel you will be met by your new driver and guide and transferred to Jerusalem.

Accommodations:

Leonardo Boutique Jerusalem is one of the chicest hotels in the capital, a central designer’s den full of charm. It flaunts 74 stylish rooms, all air-conditioned and decorated to appeal to modern travellers, in classic hues and with bespoke furnishings. The public areas of the hotel show the same artistry, as designer Ari Shaltiel blended contemporary elements with Oriental accents to invoke the spirit of the Old City while embracing present-day expectations.

The hot tub in the courtyard is one of the highlights of the hotel. It’s in a delightful little nook, intimate and tastefully set up with a wooden deck, sun loungers, and plants – the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing. You can also visit the onsite spa to further your wellness with a bespoke treatment or a massage. The hotel has a small gym with treadmills and other devices for a good workout while vacationing in Jerusalem.

A kosher restaurant ensures that you start the day right, with a delicious breakfast and good coffee. You will even have a small library in the hotel, so you don’t have to worry if you didn’t bring any holiday reading along.

The location of the hotel makes it easy for guests to visit iconic landmarks like the Old City and the Western Wall, the Israel Museum, Yad Vashem – commemorating the victims of the Holocaust, and the Tower of David, among many other attractions. Guided tours are highly recommended to take in as much as the treasures of Jerusalem as possible.

Day 18

Jerusalem – Leonardo Boutique Hotel – Standard Room
Breakfast

After Breakfast, we ascend the Mount of Olives to have a prominent and breathtaking lookout of the Old City of Jerusalem. Descend the Mount, visiting the grand Church of Gethsemane before making our way to Lions Gate. Walk to the Holy Sepulcher, the Holiest site in Christianity.

Continue through the alleys to the Dome of the Rock and Al Aqsa Mosque. Finally, we visit the Western Wall Plaza, the holiest site in Judaism. We spend the afternoon roaming through the markets of the Old City before returning to the hotel for overnight.

Day 19

Jerusalem – Leonardo Boutique Hotel – Standard Room
Breakfast

We start our day by visiting the New Jerusalem, driving to the Knesset (Parliament) of Israel. View it from its compound outside and learn about the Israeli governmental system.

Later on, we visit Bethlehem – Church of Nativity, Star Street and Manger square, and the Old Market. The highlight of our day will be the Cremisan Winery, located in Beit Jala for a Wine Tasting.