17 Day Uncover Egypt and Jordan Small Group Tour

On arrival in Cairo, you will be welcomed at the airport by a local representative. After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, you will be transferred to your hotel. Once checked in, you can take some time to relax and recover from your journey or enjoy your first glimpse of the vibrant city of Cairo.

NOTE: The included transfer is a group transfer and will be scheduled according to the arrival times of the majority of guests. If you arrive earlier and prefer not to wait, or if your flight arrives after the scheduled group transfer, you may arrange a private transfer (additional charges apply) or make your own way to the hotel.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 40 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 1–1.5 hours (traffic in Cairo can vary significantly)

MEALS: Nil

OVERNIGHT: Jaz Pyramids Hotel, Cairo

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for a full day guided tour exploring some of Cairo’s most iconic ancient landmarks. Begin at the famous Giza Plateau, home to the legendary Pyramids of Giza. Here you will see the Great Pyramid of Cheops, the largest and oldest of the three pyramids and the only remaining wonder of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You will also visit the Pyramid of Chephren and the Pyramid of Mycerinus, as well as the incredible Great Sphinx, a monumental statue carved from natural rock with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh.

Continue your cultural journey with a visit to the Papyrus Institute where you will learn how ancient Egyptians created the first form of paper. There will also be time to browse nearby papyrus, perfume and jewellery shops for local souvenirs. A delicious lunch will be served at a local restaurant before continuing to the impressive Grand Egyptian Museum.

In the afternoon, explore the Grand Egyptian Museum, the largest archaeological museum in the Middle East. The museum showcases an extraordinary collection of artefacts spanning from the Predynastic Period through to the Greco Roman era, including many remarkable treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun. After a fascinating day exploring Egypt’s rich history, return to your hotel in Cairo for an evening at leisure.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 60 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 2–3 hours total throughout the day (allowing for Cairo traffic)

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch

OVERNIGHT: Jaz Pyramids Hotel, Cairo

After breakfast at the hotel, depart Cairo and travel north to Alexandria (approximate distance 225 km, driving time around 3 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic). Alexandria is Egypt’s historic Mediterranean city, known for its rich Greco Roman heritage.

Upon arrival, visit the remarkable Kom al Shoqafa, one of the most fascinating Roman era necropolises in Egypt. This underground complex features Greek style catacombs, burial chambers, a funerary chapel and a banqueting hall that was once used by families during funeral rites. The artwork and reliefs within the catacombs reflect a unique blend of ancient Egyptian and Greek cultural traditions.

Continue to Pompey’s Pillar, a towering Roman triumphal column located near the ruins of the Serapeum, once the principal temple dedicated to Sarapis, the Greco Egyptian deity. Although the temple was destroyed in 391 AD after pagan worship was outlawed, the site still reflects the grandeur of ancient Alexandria.

Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Montazah Gardens, a peaceful coastal park that was once part of a royal summer palace complex.

Later in the afternoon, depart Alexandria and return to Cairo (approximate distance 225 km, driving time around 3 to 3.5 hours). Arrive back at your hotel where the evening is at leisure.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 460 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: Full Day

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch

OVERNIGHT: Jaz Pyramids Hotel, Cairo

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for a fascinating day exploring the historic districts of Islamic and Coptic Cairo. Begin with a visit to the Citadel of Salah El Din, a magnificent medieval fortress built in the 12th century that overlooks the city. Within the Citadel, visit the impressive Mosque of Mohamed Ali, famous for its grand domes and tall minarets, and enjoy panoramic views across Cairo. You will also explore several museums located within the Citadel complex.

After the visit, continue to a local restaurant for lunch. In the afternoon, discover the historic area of Coptic Cairo, home to some of Egypt’s oldest Christian sites. Learn about the Coptic Orthodox Church, the largest Christian community in Egypt, and visit important landmarks that highlight the deep religious heritage of the area.

After exploring these historic districts, return to your hotel in Cairo where the evening is at leisure.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 40 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 2–3 hours total throughout the day (allowing for Cairo traffic)

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch

OVERNIGHT: Jaz Pyramids Hotel, Cairo

You may have an early start today, so enjoy a packed breakfast from the hotel before transferring to Cairo International Airport for your domestic flight to Aswan. Upon arrival in Aswan, you will be met by your local representative and begin exploring this charming city on the banks of the Nile.

Your sightseeing begins with a visit to the impressive Aswan High Dam, an engineering achievement of the 20th century that transformed Egypt’s irrigation and electricity supply. Continue to the beautiful Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis and located on Agilkia Island. This magnificent temple complex was one of the last centres of ancient Egyptian worship and remained active until the 6th century AD.

• The High Dam, an engineering marvel of the 20th century that revolutionised Egypt’s irrigation and electricity supply.
• The majestic Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Located on Agilkia Island, this beautifully preserved temple was one of the last active worship sites of ancient Egypt. It remained in use until the 6th century AD when Emperor Justinian I closed all pagan temples. Remarkably, it is here that the last known hieroglyphic inscription was carved in 394 AD. Later converted into a Christian church, parts of the temple were altered or defaced as Egypt transitioned into a new religious era.

After your morning tour, transfer to your Nile cruise ship for check in and enjoy lunch on board. In the afternoon, experience a relaxing Felucca sailing trip along the Nile. These traditional wooden sailing boats offer a peaceful way to take in the scenery of Aswan’s palm lined islands and desert hills as the sun sets over the river.

Return to the cruise ship for dinner on board and spend the night docked in Aswan.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 45 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 1.5–2 hours total throughout the day (including airport transfers and sightseeing)

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Solaris Nile Cruise

After an early breakfast on board, depart for a memorable excursion to the spectacular temples of Abu Simbel (approximate distance 280 km each way, driving time around 3.5 to 4 hours each direction). Carved directly into the mountainside during the reign of King Ramesses II around 1264 BC, the Great Temple of Abu Simbel is one of Egypt’s most impressive ancient monuments. The temple façade features four colossal seated statues of Ramesses II, each standing more than 20 metres high. Inside, the temple chambers are decorated with detailed carvings depicting the pharaoh’s military victories and divine legacy.

After exploring the temple complex, return to Aswan where your Nile cruise awaits (approximate distance 280 km, driving time around 3.5 to 4 hours). Enjoy lunch on board as the ship begins sailing north along the Nile towards Kom Ombo.

In the afternoon, arrive at Kom Ombo and visit the unique Temple of Kom Ombo, located on the riverbank (approximate sailing distance Aswan to Kom Ombo 45 km, sailing time approximately 3 hours). This remarkable temple is known for its symmetrical “double” design, with one side dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility, and the other to Haroeris (Horus the Elder). After exploring the temple, return to the cruise ship and enjoy dinner on board as the journey along the Nile continues.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 560 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 7–8 hours total driving plus approximately 3 hours sailing

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Solaris Nile Cruise

Begin your day with breakfast on board before arriving at Edfu, where you will visit one of the best preserved temples in Egypt, the Temple of Horus. The temple, built during the Ptolemaic period between 237 and 57 BC, is dedicated to Horus, the falcon headed god. Its towering entrance, detailed carvings and well preserved hieroglyphics provide remarkable insight into the religious beliefs and mythology of ancient Egypt.

After exploring the temple, return to your cruise ship and continue sailing north along the Nile toward Luxor (approximate sailing distance Edfu to Luxor 110 km, sailing time around 6 to 7 hours). Enjoy lunch on board while relaxing and taking in the scenic views of villages, farmland and desert landscapes along the river.

In the afternoon, arrive in Luxor and visit the magnificent Luxor Temple located on the east bank of the Nile (approximate distance from cruise dock 3 km, driving time around 10 to 15 minutes). Unlike many temples in Egypt, Luxor Temple was dedicated to the concept of kingship and was used for royal ceremonies and religious festivals. After the visit, return to the cruise ship for dinner on board and an evening at leisure.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 3 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: Approximately 10–15 minutes plus approximately 6–7 hours sailing

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Solaris Nile Cruise

After your final breakfast on board, disembark the cruise and begin a full day exploring Luxor, often referred to as the world’s greatest open air museum. Your first stop is the remarkable Valley of the Kings on the west bank of the Nile (approximate distance 30 km, driving time around 45 minutes). This ancient royal burial ground served as the resting place of many New Kingdom pharaohs, including Tutankhamun and Ramesses the Great. Explore several of the elaborately decorated tombs carved deep into the desert hills.

Continue to the impressive Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el Bahari (approximate distance 5 km, driving time around 10 minutes). Built for Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh, this magnificent temple features three dramatic terraces set against towering limestone cliffs. After the visit, stop briefly to view the Colossi of Memnon before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, cross to Luxor’s east bank to visit the extraordinary Karnak Temple Complex (approximate distance 20 km, driving time around 40 minutes including river crossing). Dedicated primarily to the god Amun, Karnak is one of the largest religious complexes ever built and was the spiritual centre of ancient Thebes. Wander through its vast courtyards, colossal pillars and towering obelisks before transferring to Luxor Airport (approximate distance 10 km, driving time around 20 minutes) for your domestic flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 65 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: Approximately 2 hours total throughout the day (including sightseeing and airport transfer)

MEALS: Breakfast

OVERNIGHT: Jaz Pyramids Hotel, Cairo

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and begin your overland journey from Cairo to the Red Sea resort town of Sharm El Sheikh. Travel east across the Sinai Peninsula via the Ahmed Hamdy Tunnel, which passes beneath the famous Suez Canal (approximate distance Cairo to tunnel 140 km, driving time around 2 hours).

After crossing into Sinai, continue south to visit the historic Springs of Moses (Oyoun Musa), located about 20 km from the tunnel (approximate driving time 30 minutes). According to tradition, this site is associated with the biblical story of Moses turning bitter water sweet for his followers. Today the springs remain a peaceful desert oasis surrounded by palm trees and historical significance.

Continue the scenic drive across the Sinai Peninsula to Sharm El Sheikh on the Red Sea coast (approximate distance Oyoun Musa to Sharm El Sheikh 320 km, driving time around 5 to 6 hours including rest stops). Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before checking in to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and enjoy the resort facilities.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 480 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: Approximately 7–8 hours total throughout the day (including rest stops and sightseeing)

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Dreams Vacations Hotel, Sharm El Sheikh

Today is free for you to relax and enjoy Sharm El Sheikh at your own pace. Spend the day unwinding by the beach or pool, taking in the stunning views of the Red Sea, or exploring the lively town with its local markets, cafés and seaside promenades.

Sharm El Sheikh is one of Egypt’s most popular coastal destinations, known for its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and relaxed resort atmosphere. Take this opportunity to enjoy the facilities at your hotel or discover the beauty of the surrounding area.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: N/A

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: N/A

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Dreams Vacations Hotel, Sharm El Sheikh

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:

Boat Trip in Sharm El Sheikh

Enjoy a relaxing boat trip on the Red Sea, with time to swim, snorkel and unwind among the colourful coral reefs. You will be picked up from your hotel at approximately 8.00am and return around 3.00pm.

Lunch is included and served on board.

• Duration: Approx. 7 hours
• Transport: Boat with return hotel transfers
• Includes: Lunch onboard
• Equipment: Snorkelling and diving equipment available to hire onboard

Today is free for you to relax and enjoy Sharm El Sheikh at your own pace. Spend the day unwinding by the beach or pool, enjoying the beautiful views of the Red Sea, or exploring the town’s lively markets, cafés and coastal promenades.

Sharm El Sheikh is famous for its clear waters, colourful coral reefs and relaxed resort atmosphere. Take the opportunity to enjoy the facilities at your hotel or explore more of this popular Red Sea destination.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: N/A

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: N/A

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Dreams Vacations Hotel, Sharm El Sheikh

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:

St Catherine Monastery & Blue Hole Day Tour

Discover two of the Sinai Peninsula’s most remarkable sites on this full day tour from Sharm El Sheikh. Travel through the dramatic desert mountains to visit the historic St Catherine Monastery (approximate distance 220 km, driving time around 3 hours), one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After exploring the monastery and its ancient surroundings, continue to the famous Blue Hole near Dahab on the Red Sea coast (approximate distance 120 km, driving time around 2 hours). This natural underwater sinkhole is one of the most well-known diving sites in the region. Enjoy time to relax and take in the scenery before lunch in Dahab, then return to Sharm El Sheikh in the afternoon (approximate distance 100 km, driving time around 1.5 hours).

• Duration: Full day (approx. 10–12 hours)
• Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with return hotel transfers
• Includes: Guided visit to St Catherine Monastery and lunch in Dahab
• Highlights: St Catherine Monastery, Sinai mountain scenery and the Blue Hole

After an early breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to Nuweiba Port to begin your journey into Jordan.

The drive follows the beautiful coastline of the Gulf of Aqaba before arriving at the port for your ferry crossing (included) to Aqaba in Jordan. You may wish to bring some snacks or refreshments to enjoy during the ferry journey.

Upon arrival at Aqaba Port, you will be met by a local representative and assisted with your arrival procedures. Your Jordan visa will be pre-arranged to ensure a smooth entry into the country.

From Aqaba, continue with a scenic transfer to Wadi Rum, the spectacular desert valley often referred to as the “Valley of the Moon.” Upon arrival, prepare to experience the unique desert landscapes of southern Jordan. Your included 4×4 jeep excursion through Wadi Rum may take place this evening or the following morning depending on arrival time.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 260 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 4–5 hours total throughout the day (including transfers)

MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Sun City Hotel, Wadi Rum

After breakfast in the desert, enjoy an exciting 2-hour 4×4 jeep excursion through the spectacular landscapes of Wadi Rum. Often called the “Valley of the Moon,” this dramatic desert is famous for its towering sandstone mountains, vast valleys and rolling sand dunes. Travel through this remarkable wilderness as you explore some of the most scenic areas of Wadi Rum.

After the jeep tour, depart Wadi Rum and travel north to the ancient city of Petra (approximate distance 120 km, driving time around 2 hours). Known as the “Red Rose City,” Petra was carved into the pink sandstone cliffs by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago and is now one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Begin your visit with a walk through the narrow Siq, a dramatic canyon with towering rock walls that leads to Petra’s most famous monument, the Treasury (Al Khazneh). Continue exploring the remarkable archaeological site with its impressive tombs, temples and caves that reveal the rich history of this ancient civilisation. In the late afternoon, transfer to your hotel near Petra for dinner.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 120 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 2–2.5 hours total throughout the day (excluding sightseeing)

MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Petra Hotel

After breakfast, depart Petra and travel north through the dramatic desert landscapes of Jordan toward the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth (approximate distance 220 km, driving time around 3.5 to 4 hours). Enjoy the changing scenery as you journey through valleys and rugged mountain terrain.

Upon arrival at the Dead Sea, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. You may wish to relax by the pool, enjoy the resort facilities, or experience floating in the famous mineral rich waters of the Dead Sea.

Known for its extremely high salt content and therapeutic mud, the Dead Sea is one of Jordan’s most unique natural wonders and a perfect place to unwind.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 220 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 3.5–4 hours

MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Dead Sea Spa Hotel

Today is free for you to relax and enjoy the unique surroundings of the Dead Sea at your own pace. Take advantage of the resort facilities, relax by the pool, or experience floating effortlessly in the mineral rich waters of the Dead Sea.

The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth and is renowned for its therapeutic mud and highly saline waters, which allow visitors to float easily on the surface. You may also choose to enjoy a spa treatment or simply unwind while taking in the stunning desert scenery.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: N/A

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: N/A

MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Dead Sea Spa Hotel

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and travel north to the historic town of Madaba (approximate distance 35 km, driving time around 45 minutes). Madaba is renowned for its remarkable Byzantine mosaics, including the famous Madaba Map, the oldest preserved mosaic map of the Holy Land dating back to the 6th century.

Continue to Mount Nebo (approximate distance 10 km, driving time around 15 minutes), an important biblical site believed to be where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death. From the summit, enjoy sweeping views across the Jordan Valley, Jericho and, on clear days, even Jerusalem.

In the afternoon, continue to Jordan’s capital city of Amman (approximate distance 35 km, driving time around 45 minutes) for a short city tour. Visit the historic Amman Citadel overlooking the city, followed by the impressive Roman Theatre, a well-preserved remnant of Amman’s Greco Roman past. Afterwards, enjoy some time to explore Downtown Amman and browse the local markets before transferring to your hotel.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 80 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 2–2.5 hours total throughout the day including stops

MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Harir Palace Hotel, Amman

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to Queen Alia International Airport in Amman for your onward flight (approximate distance 35 km, driving time around 40–50 minutes depending on traffic).

Your incredible journey through Egypt and Jordan comes to an end today. We thank you for travelling with MyHoliday2 and hope you have enjoyed an unforgettable experience exploring ancient history, spectacular landscapes and vibrant cultures.

We wish you a safe and pleasant journey home and look forward to welcoming you on another MyHoliday2 adventure in the future.

NOTE: The included transfer is a group departure transfer and will be scheduled based on the flight times of the majority of guests. If your flight departs earlier and you prefer not to wait, or if your flight departs outside the scheduled transfer time, you may arrange a private transfer (additional charges apply) or make your own way to the airport.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 35 km

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 40–50 minutes

MEALS: Breakfast