Jordan & Egypt with Nile Cruise – A Journey Through Time

Jordan & Egypt in 16 Days, 14 Nights in Destination

Departures available 2025/26 Available Group tours Solo travelers from + $750

Wander through the rose-red city of Petra, marvel at the desert beauty of Wadi Rum, and float in the healing waters of the Dead Sea. Then travel to Egypt, where ancient wonders await—from the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the majestic temples of Luxor and Aswan, all experienced on a scenic Nile River cruise. This expertly guided tour blends rich history, cultural discovery, and breathtaking scenery into one captivating adventure.

Trip highlights

• Aswan
• Cairo
• Giza
• Luxor
• Nile River
• Amman
• Dead Sea
• Jerash
• Mount Nebo
• Petra

Itinerary

Embark on a captivating journey through the ancient lands of Jordan and Egypt. Explore the rose-red city of Petra, the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the sacred waters of the Dead Sea. Then, discover the wonders of Egypt—from the Pyramids of Giza to the treasures of Luxor and Aswan—on a scenic Nile River cruise. This unforgettable adventure combines rich history, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes in one expertly guided tour.

Day 1: Departure from US (Night on board)

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Jordan & Egypt, visiting iconic landmarks across the country. Start by heading to your departure airport in the U.S. to board your flight* to Jordan, with an overnight journey ahead.

*For flights departing before 4:00 a.m., please arrive at the airport the evening before your scheduled departure.

Day 2: Arrival Amman

Arrive in Amman and transfer to your hotel*. As the vibrant capital of Jordan, Amman offers a unique blend of modern living and ancient heritage, with archaeological sites scattered across its scenic hills. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Dinner** and overnight stay in Amman.

*Shared transfer; a short wait at the airport may be required depending on group arrival times.

**Please note: If hotel check-in occurs after 9:00 p.m., dinner will not be included.

Day 3: Amman

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a panoramic city tour of Amman. Take in the striking contrast between the city's modern skyline and its ancient core as you drive through both historic and contemporary neighbourhoods.

Your journey continues to the impressive city of Jerash, known as the "Pompeii of the East." This remarkably well-preserved Roman site features highlights such as Hadrian’s Arch, the Hippodrome, the Temple of Artemis, and the grand Roman Theatre—offering a vivid glimpse into life during the Roman Empire.

Later, visit Ajloun Castle, a 12th-century Islamic fortress built by the forces of Saladin. Set atop a hill, the castle provides sweeping views of the lush Jordanian countryside and, on clear days, distant views of the Dead Sea. After a day of exploration, return to Amman and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Day 4: Amman - Petra

After breakfast at the hotel, set out for Madaba, a city famed for its ancient mosaics. Visit St. George’s Church, where you’ll find the oldest known mosaic map of the Holy Land—a remarkable artifact that offers insight into the region’s early geography and religious heritage.

Continue to Mount Nebo, a place of deep spiritual significance. According to biblical tradition, this is where Moses stood to view the Promised Land before his passing. From the summit, take in sweeping views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and, on clear days, even Jerusalem.

Your journey then takes you to Shobak Castle, a dramatic Crusader fortress established in 1115. Wander through its fortified walls, towers, and hidden passages while learning about its strategic importance and tumultuous history.

In the evening, arrive in Petra and check in to your hotel. Enjoy free time to unwind or explore the area at your own pace. For a unique first impression of Petra, you may choose to join the optional Petra By Night experience—a candlelit walk through the Siq leading to the iconic Treasury, illuminated under the stars.

Day 5: Petra

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day excursion to Petra, the crown jewel of Jordan and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Once the thriving capital of the Nabatean Kingdom, Petra is a stunning example of rock-cut architecture and ancient ingenuity.

Enter through the narrow Siq, a dramatic gorge bordered by towering cliffs, and emerge before the awe-inspiring Treasury, Petra’s most iconic monument, immortalized in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Continue your exploration to uncover other remarkable sites, such as the Colored Tombs, the Royal Tombs, and the Street of Facades, each revealing the secrets of a once-great civilization.

As you wander through this ancient city, imagine the lives of the people who once inhabited this hidden desert wonder. Petra is a place of mystery, beauty, and timeless history—an unforgettable experience that truly lives up to its legendary status. After a day of discovery, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Petra.

Day 6: Petra - Wadi-e-Rum

After breakfast at the hotel, head to Little Petra, a hidden gem located just north of the main Petra site. This narrow, 2-meter-wide gorge is home to remarkable Nabatean architecture carved into the rose-colored rock. Quieter and more intimate than Petra, Little Petra offers a unique glimpse into the everyday life of the Nabateans, with tombs, cisterns, and ancient water channels etched into the cliffs.

From there, continue your journey into the heart of Wadi Rum, a desert landscape straight out of another world. Known for its towering sandstone mountains and vast red sand valleys, Wadi Rum is famously featured in Lawrence of Arabia. Enjoy an exhilarating 4x4 ride across this Martian-like terrain, absorbing the silence, stunning beauty, and surreal atmosphere of the desert.

In the evening, settle into your Bedouin-style camp, where you'll enjoy a traditional dinner under a canopy of stars, experiencing the serene tranquility of the desert night. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider joining the optional Stargazing Excursion. Venture into a remote area free from light pollution, where you'll enjoy a short presentation and explore the night sky through high-powered telescopes.

Overnight stay in Wadi Rum.

Optional Wadi Rum Stargazing Experience: Journey to a remote area free from light pollution, enjoy an insightful presentation, and marvel at the starry sky through telescopes. This activity is weather-dependent.

Day 7: Wadi-e-Rum - Amman

After breakfast at the camp, depart for Amman at the scheduled time. Upon arrival, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. You can relax at your hotel or head out to explore the city’s vibrant streets, local shops, and cultural landmarks at your own pace.

For those interested in delving deeper into Amman’s rich history and heritage, consider joining the optional Amman City Tour this afternoon*. The tour offers a chance to discover the capital of the Hashemite Kingdom, a city continuously inhabited for over 7,000 years. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Amman Citadel, the Hercules Temple, the Byzantine Church, and the Umayyad Palace. Explore the Amman Archaeological Museum, then head downtown to see the Roman Amphitheatre and lively local markets. The tour concludes with a traditional Jordanian dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight stay in Amman.

Optional Amman City Tour with Dinner: Explore Amman’s most iconic sites and immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture, ending the tour with a delicious Jordanian meal.

Day 8: Desert Castle - Dead Sea - Amman

After breakfast at the hotel, head eastward to explore the Desert Castles of Azraq, Kharanah, and Amra. These well-preserved structures, dating back to the early Islamic period, were once retreats and hunting lodges for the Umayyad Caliphs. Step inside these historic fortresses to admire beautifully preserved frescoes and learn about life in the 7th century.

Continue your journey to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, situated around 400 meters below sea level. Enjoy the striking desert landscapes as you approach the Dead Sea, then unwind with some well-deserved relaxation. Take a rejuvenating dip in the buoyant, mineral-rich waters and indulge in a natural mud bath, renowned for its therapeutic properties.

After a refreshing experience, return to Amman for an overnight stay.

Day 9: Amman - Cairo

After breakfast at the hotel, continue your adventure as you head to Egypt! At the scheduled time, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cairo. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in. Once you've settled in, the remainder of the day is free for you to explore Cairo at your own pace. Take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city, set against the backdrop of the Great Pyramids. You can visit the local souk for some shopping or sample the delicious national cuisine. Join Optional Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids

Overnight stay in Cairo

Day 10: Full Day Cairo City Tour

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore some of Cairo’s most iconic landmarks. Begin at the legendary Giza Plateau, home to the Great Pyramids of Giza, built over 4,500 years ago and recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Walk in the footsteps of pharaohs as you uncover the fascinating history behind these monumental structures. Continue your visit at the Great Sphinx, the enigmatic guardian of the pyramids, and delve deeper into the mysteries of Ancient Egypt.

The afternoon is free for you to relax or explore at your own pace. For those eager to experience more, consider joining one of the optional excursions: a visit to the spectacular Grand Egyptian Museum, or a Cairo by Night tour, offering a cultural evening filled with sights, local flavors, and vibrant city life.

Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Cairo.

Optional Visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum: Discover over 50,000 artifacts spanning 7,000 years of history in a state-of-the-art facility overlooking the pyramids. Highlights include the Hanging Obelisk, the Grand Staircase, and the vast Grand Gallery—an essential visit for lovers of Ancient Egyptian history.

Optional Cairo by Night: Enjoy an enchanting evening exploring Tahrir Square, Zamalek, the Cairo Tower, and the Opera House, followed by a traditional Egyptian dinner. End the night at the popular Mirror Café, soaking up the vibrant local atmosphere.

Day 11: Cairo - Luxor

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport for your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, head to the port and board your Full-Board Nile Cruise Boat, your home for the next four nights. Settle into your cabin, enjoy lunch on board, and take in your first stunning views of the Nile River.

In the afternoon, begin your exploration with a visit to the awe-inspiring Temple of Karnak, one of the largest and most important religious complexes of ancient Egypt. Wander through its massive columns, chapels, and sacred spaces that once formed the spiritual center of Thebes. Next, visit the elegant Temple of Luxor, dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun-Ra, Mut, and Khonsu, and built by pharaohs Amenhotep III and Ramses II.

Return to the cruise ship for a relaxing evening on board. For a magical end to the day, you may choose to join the optional Karnak Temple Sound and Light Show*, where history comes alive through dramatic storytelling and stunning visual effects.

Dinner and overnight on board the cruise.

Optional Karnak Temple Sound and Light Show: As night descends, walk through the illuminated ruins of Karnak while listening to the dramatic retelling of ancient stories. This immersive experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the myths, gods, and rulers of Egypt’s golden age.

Day 12: Luxor - Edfu

Enjoy a full-board experience on board as your journey continues to one of Egypt’s most iconic archaeological treasures: the Valley of the Kings. This legendary royal necropolis served as the final resting place for the pharaohs of the 18th to 20th dynasties. Explore three richly decorated tombs, each carved deep into the desert hills and adorned with intricate hieroglyphs and vibrant wall paintings that bring ancient beliefs and rituals to life.

Next, visit the magnificent Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an architectural marvel dramatically set against the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari. This grand structure honors Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh and reflects the sophistication of New Kingdom design. On the return journey, stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two colossal statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have stood as silent sentinels over the Theban necropolis for more than 3,000 years.

After a morning immersed in ancient history, return to the cruise ship and enjoy the scenery as you begin sailing toward Edfu. Relax and take in the views of life along the Nile.

Overnight on board.

Note: Entry to three tombs in the Valley of the Kings is included. Admission to the Tomb of Tutankhamun is not included but can be purchased on-site.

Day 13: Edfu - Kom Ombo - Aswan

Enjoy full-board service on board as your journey through ancient Egypt continues. This morning, disembark in Edfu and take a charming buggy ride through the town to visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Dedicated to the falcon-headed god of kingship and protection, this grand structure features towering columns, detailed reliefs, and mythological scenes that bring ancient beliefs vividly to life.

Return to the ship and continue sailing south to Kom Ombo, home to a rare twin temple complex. Explore the Temple of Haroeris and Sobek, uniquely dedicated to two gods—Haroeris, the god of healing, and Sobek, the crocodile god associated with fertility and the Nile. Admire the ancient Nilometer, once used by priests to measure the river’s water levels and forecast the agricultural season.

After the visit, return to the ship and unwind as you cruise toward Aswan, enjoying the tranquil scenery along the Nile.

Overnight on board.

Day 14: Aswan

Enjoy a full-board day on board as your cruise arrives in Aswan, a picturesque city known for its rich history and stunning Nile views. Early risers have the opportunity to join an optional excursion to Abu Simbel*, one of Egypt’s most iconic and awe-inspiring ancient monuments.

Later in the day, discover the highlights of Aswan, beginning with a visit to the ancient granite quarries, where the massive Unfinished Obelisk lies as a testament to the skill of ancient craftsmen. Continue to the Old and New Aswan Dams, remarkable feats of engineering that have played a vital role in controlling the Nile’s waters and shaping modern Egypt.

You’ll also have the option to explore the Island of Philae**, where the Temple of Isis stands in serene beauty, dedicated to the goddess of love, healing, and magic. The day concludes with a peaceful felucca ride along the Nile, a timeless experience that captures the spirit of Upper Egypt.

Return to the cruise for dinner and a relaxing overnight stay on board.

*Optional Excursion to Abu Simbel: Witness the grandeur of the twin temples carved into the desert cliffs by Ramses II in the 13th century BC. Marvel at the 20-meter statues of the pharaoh and explore the smaller Temple of Nefertari, dedicated to his queen and the goddess Hathor. This excursion departs around 3 a.m. to ensure a cooler, quieter visit with fewer crowds.

**Optional Excursion to the Island of Philae: Visit the stunning Temple of Isis, set on a peaceful island in the Nile. This sacred site offers a deep connection to ancient Egyptian mythology and spiritual tradition, all surrounded by the tranquil waters of Lake Nasser.

Day 15: Aswan - Cairo

Breakfast on board. At the scheduled time, disembark from the cruise and transfer to the airport for your short flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, head to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, soaking up the vibrant energy of Egypt’s bustling capital.

Take the opportunity to explore Cairo’s rich cultural offerings—perhaps visit the Egyptian Museum, home to one of the world’s greatest collections of ancient artifacts, or wander through the lively souks to shop for local handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.

For a deeper dive into the city’s heritage, consider joining the optional excursion to the Saladin Citadel*, where Islamic and Coptic history blend against a backdrop of sweeping city views.

Overnight stay in Cairo.

*Optional Excursion to Saladin Citadel: Discover Cairo’s Islamic heart with a visit to the Saladin Citadel, a 12th-century fortress offering panoramic views across the city. Explore the majestic Alabaster Mosque, then continue to the Coptic Quarter, home to some of Cairo’s oldest Christian churches and a rich tapestry of religious history.

Day 16: Ready for Departure

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport to board your return flight. Depending on your flight schedule, you may arrive back the same day or the following day. Please note that if your return flight departs early in the morning, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on your final day. Safe travels and thank you for joining us on this unforgettable journey through Egypt!

What the price includes

• Departures are available from JFK (Other major US airports may cost extra)
• 14 Nights of accommodation with Breakfast
• Lunch & Dinner (if mentioned in the itinerary)
• All transfers are provided in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles as outlined in the itinerary (Private transfer cost extra)
• All air taxes and fuel surcharge
• English Speaking Guide & Tour Leader
• All Entrance Tickets mentioned above in the itinerary

Included activities

• Visit to Ajloun Castle
• Jerash City Tour
• Brief Panoramic City Tour of Amman
• Desert Castles & Dead Sea Full-Day Excursion

Accommodation

• Ramses Hilton
• Nile Treasure Cruise
• Mövenpick Hotel Amman
• Grand Mercure Petra
• Sharah Luxury Camp

Not included

Visa (required for Egypt)*, drinks, tips**, and any other services not specifically mentioned in the "what's included" section are not part of the tour package.

*The Egypt visa is issued on arrival at a cost of approximately $25 USD.

**Mandatory tips of $55 USD per person for the Nile Cruise are not included in the package price and must be paid at the destination. These are the only mandatory tips required for this tour. Tipping for other services during the trip is optional, but please note that tipping is an integral part of Egyptian culture, and it is common for service providers to request tips. Whether or not to provide a tip in these situations is entirely at your discretion.

If you arrive between 00:00 and 11:30, please be aware that you will need to add the optional early check-in to access your room immediately. This can be selected in the next step of the booking process.