Authentic Journeys through Egypt & Jordan

Ahlan wa sahlan! Welcome to Cairo – the Gateway to Ancient Wonders

Your Egyptian adventure kicks off the moment you land in the buzzing capital of Cairo. Got time before the official start? Dive headfirst into the vibrant chaos of the local bazaars, wander through the quirky and colorful Pharaonic Village of Dr. Ragab, or recharge with a warm cup of sahlab – a creamy, nutty custard drink loved by locals.

This evening at 6 PM, join your fellow travelers and trip leader for a welcome meeting – a chance to get to know your group and go over the exciting days ahead. Don’t miss it, as we’ll also be collecting essential travel details.

Afterward, get ready for a flavor-packed dinner featuring koshari, a beloved Egyptian comfort food bursting with spice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, and a tangy tomato sauce – with a splash of lemon if you dare.

Still have energy to burn? Let Cairo surprise you. Whether it’s cozy shisha lounges, rooftop hangouts, or hidden local gems, your leader knows exactly where to go for an unforgettable night.

Accommodation
🏨 Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included
🍽 Dinner

Optional Activities (Prices include guides & transport):

• Cairo – Saqqara & Memphis Urban Adventure: USD $49

• Cairo – Coptic Museum Entry: EGP 280

• Cairo – Museum of Islamic Art: EGP 340

• Cairo – The Citadel Entry: EGP 550

Important Info:
Make sure to attend the welcome meeting on time. If you expect to be late, inform your travel agent or the hotel reception in advance. Check the lobby for a note or ask reception for the meeting location.

Keep in mind that most optional activities require cash payment (in EGP or USD), and some may need a minimum number of participants. Prefer to explore on your own? No worries – taxis are easy to find, and your leader can help you arrange one.

Accommodation:
🌟 Hyatt Regency Cairo West (or similar) – 1 night of comfort and elegance.

Meals Included:
🍽️ Dinner

Included Experiences:
✔️ Airport transfer upon arrival
✔️ Welcome dinner in Cairo

Optional Experiences:
🔹 Visit the fascinating Islamic Art Museum – EGP 340
🔹 Dive into the city’s charm with a Downtown Cairo Walking Tour – USD 29
🔹 Discover ancient treasures on a Saqqara and Memphis Tour – USD 49

Stand Before Giants: A Day at the Pyramids & an Overnight Train to the South

After breakfast, prepare for one of the most unforgettable moments of your journey – a visit to the legendary Great Pyramids of Giza and the iconic Sphinx. Standing tall on the edge of the desert, these ancient wonders are a true testament to human ingenuity. The Great Pyramid of Khufu, built over 4,500 years ago, once soared to 146 meters and was crafted from an astonishing 2.3 million limestone blocks – each weighing around 2.5 tonnes. And for all that effort? Khufu got a modest 9 cm statue in return (talk about ancient irony!).

Marvel up close at these awe-inspiring structures, or snap the perfect panoramic shot with Cairo’s skyline behind you. No one really knows how the Sphinx lost its nose, but that won’t stop it from stealing the show.

This afternoon, enjoy free time to follow your curiosity. Perhaps visit the world-renowned Egyptian Museum, brimming with priceless treasures and ancient mysteries. Or explore the Valley Temple of King Khafre, an incredible site right next to the Sphinx.

In the evening, board your comfortable overnight sleeper train to Aswan – your gateway to Nubian culture and the treasures of southern Egypt.

Accommodation
🚆 Sleeper Train (1 night)

Meals Included
🍳 Breakfast
🍽 Dinner

Included Activity

• 🏜️ Guided visit to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

Optional Activities

• Entry to the 3rd Pyramid of Menkaure – EGP 280

• Entry to the Great Pyramid of Cheops – EGP 1000

• National Museum of Egyptian Civilization & Royal Mummy Room – EGP 550

• Guided visit to the Egyptian Museum (min. 2 people) – USD 50

Good to Know:
The overnight train journey lasts approximately 14 hours. You’ll sleep in a two-person air-conditioned berth with bedding provided. Western-style restrooms are available in each carriage (but bringing your own toilet paper is wise).

Dinner and breakfast are included onboard, though vegetarians may want to grab a snack beforehand, as dinner typically includes meat. Occasionally, you may be paired with a traveler of the same gender from outside the group, or in rare cases, someone from the group of a different gender – part of the adventure!

Bazaar Buzz, Nile Views & Nubian Nights – A Day in Aswan

Start your day by stepping into the heart of Aswan’s vibrant soul with a guided stroll through the local bazaar. As cheerful voices call out “Welcome!” and “Where are you from?”, soak up the colors, spices, and stories that fill the air. Visit an oil and perfume merchant, where you’ll uncover the ancient secrets of Egyptian aromatherapy – used for healing, rituals, and even seduction throughout the ages.

Later, you’ll have the option to explore the stunning Philae Temple Complex, rescued from the floodwaters of the Nile and now resting beautifully on Agilkia Island. Admire the Temple of Isis, goddess of love, health, and wisdom – a serene and spiritual spot steeped in history.

In the afternoon, grab a paddle and hit the water for an unforgettable kayaking experience on the Nile. As you glide past ancient landscapes and modern life, you’ll see Egypt from a whole new angle – peaceful, powerful, and full of wonder.

This evening, consider joining an optional visit to a Nubian village, where you can enjoy a home-cooked dinner with a local family. It’s a warm, authentic experience full of culture, laughter, and unbeatable hospitality.

Accommodation
🏨 Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included
🍳 Breakfast

Included Activities

• 🚶‍♂️ Guided orientation walk & bazaar visit

• 🛶 Kayaking on the Nile

Optional Activities

• Entry to Philae Temple – EGP 550

• Entry to the Unfinished Obelisk – EGP 220

• Nubian Village Visit & Dinner (min. 4 people) – USD 20

• Philae Temple Sound & Light Show Tour (min. 2 people) – USD 55

• Guided Philae Temple Tour (min. 2 people) – USD 40

• Full Tour: Philae Temple, High Dam & Unfinished Obelisk (min. 2 people) – USD 65

• Sound & Light Show Entry Only (min. 2 people) – USD 20

Temples, Tea & Free Time – A Perfect Day in Aswan

Enjoy a slow, easy morning in Aswan – the day is yours to spend however you like. But if you’re up for an early adventure, don’t miss the chance to visit the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel. Yes, it’s a pre-dawn wake-up call, but trust us – it’s totally worth it.

Carved directly into a cliff face, the Temple of Ramses II is one of Egypt’s most breathtaking ancient sites. With its towering statues and powerful history, it’s hard not to be amazed. The drive takes around 3 hours each way, and the best (and cheapest!) way to go is to rent a shared minivan with your fellow travelers. Plan to spend at least 2 hours exploring this monumental wonder before heading back to Aswan.

Back in town, your evening is free to discover the best of Aswan’s food scene. Grab a bite of ful wa ta’ameya (Egyptian-style falafel) with warm pita and fresh salad, then settle in for a relaxing cup of mint tea as the sun sets over the Nile.

Accommodation
🏨 Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included
🍳 Breakfast

Optional Activities

• 🚐 Abu Simbel Tour (min. 4 people) – USD 110

• 🏛️ Nubian Museum Entry – EGP 400

• ✈️ Abu Simbel by Air (subject to availability) – from USD 450

✔️ Explore the historic Fort Qaitbay

Set Sail into Serenity – A Magical Night on the Nile

Start your day slow – this morning is all about unwinding, soaking in the calm, and recharging your energy. By the afternoon, you’ll step aboard a traditional felucca, your floating home for the night. With its simple charm and open-air design, this classic Egyptian sailboat offers a one-of-a-kind way to experience the Nile like the locals have for centuries.

As the sun begins to set, let the gentle breeze and peaceful riverbanks become your backdrop. Read a book, share stories, or play a few rounds of cards with your group. And if the mood is right, why not turn the riverbank into your own little beach party under the stars? Expect music, laughter, and maybe even a bit of dancing in the moonlight.

When night falls, curl up on a giant communal mattress, wrapped in a blanket, and fall asleep to the rhythm of the Nile, the whispers of the wind, and a sky glittering with constellations. With no walls around you, the view is as raw and real as it gets – pure magic.

Accommodation
⛵ Overnight Felucca (1 night)

Meals Included
🍳 Breakfast
🥗 Lunch
🍽 Dinner

Included Activities

• 🌙 Felucca Sailing Adventure on the Nile

• 🎶 Dinner & Music Onboard Experience

Good to Know:
This overnight on the felucca is more than a boat ride – it’s an immersion into Nubian and Egyptian river life. Sleeping is communal-style, side-by-side on a large shared mattress (think: cozy camp vibes). Blankets are provided, but a sleep sheet and some insect repellent are great extras to bring. There’s a basic toilet onboard, and mosquito nets are in place for added comfort.

From River Dreams to Ancient Wonders – Journey to Luxor

Wake up to the peaceful rhythm of the Nile one last time, then disembark from your felucca and head straight for the simple joy of a refreshing hotel shower – trust us, it’ll feel like luxury after a night under the stars.

On the way to Luxor, you’ll have the chance to stop at the incredible Temple of Edfu, one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt. Built during the Hellenistic period, its detailed inscriptions offer a glimpse into life, myth, and worship from over 2000 years ago – a perfect warm-up for the history that awaits in Luxor.

Once in Luxor – often called the world’s greatest open-air museum – your afternoon is yours to explore. A great starting point? Karnak Temple, a vast complex of shrines, columns, and statues that has stood for over 3,000 years. Don’t miss the Sacred Lake, and if you’re feeling a little superstitious, try circling the granite scarab nearby seven times – legend says it’ll lead you to your soulmate!

As the sun sets, enjoy a laid-back evening sampling local favorites – maybe fiteer baladi (Egyptian-style pizza), a flavorful shawarma, and of course, a cup of sweet mint tea to end the day.

Accommodation
🏨 Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included
🍳 Breakfast

Optional Activities

• 🏛️ Karnak Temple Entry – EGP 600

• 🌟 Karnak Temple Sound & Light Show (min. 2 people) – USD 45

• 🛕 Kom Ombo Temple (en route from Aswan) – EGP 450

• 🏺 Edfu Temple Entry – EGP 550

Good to Know:
Today’s travel time is approximately 4 hours, with scenic stops and optional temples to explore along the way. Expect a blend of comfort, culture, and captivating history.

Tombs, Temples & a Train Ride – A Day of Ancient Wonders in Luxor

This morning, cross the Nile to Luxor’s legendary West Bank, where ancient history comes alive. Your first stop? The awe-inspiring Valley of the Kings, final resting place of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs. Explore three remarkable tombs, each filled with intricate carvings and colorful hieroglyphics. Want to unlock a true treasure? Opt to step inside the tomb of Tutankhamun – once lost to time, now one of Egypt’s most famous finds.

Next, stand before the towering Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have watched over the Theban necropolis for over 3,000 years – a truly epic photo op with ancient royalty.

You’ll also visit a special place close to our hearts – Animal Care in Egypt (ACE), an Intrepid Foundation partner that offers free veterinary care for working animals in the region. It’s a chance to see compassion in action and learn about local life from a different perspective.

Still curious? Choose to cap off your West Bank adventure with a visit to the Temple of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs (and yes – she did marry her half-brother). This stunning cliffside temple is an architectural masterpiece.

If you’ve still got some energy left, there’s time to explore the majestic Luxor Temple in the heart of the city before boarding your overnight sleeper train back to Cairo.

Accommodation
🚆 Sleeper Train (1 night)

Meals Included
🍳 Breakfast
🍽 Dinner

Included Activities

• 🏺 Valley of the Kings – entry to 3 tombs

• 🐴 Visit to Animal Care in Egypt (ACE)

Optional Activities

• Tomb of Tutankhamun – EGP 700

• Hatshepsut Temple – EGP 440

• Luxor Temple – EGP 500

• Luxor Museum – EGP 400

• Dinner with a Local Family (min. 2 people) – USD 25

• Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Valley of the Kings – USD 120

Good to Know:
The overnight train to Cairo takes approximately 10 hours. If you’re dreaming of soaring above the Valley of the Kings, your leader can arrange a hot air balloon ride with Dream Balloons (weather dependent). Pick-up is early (around 4:30–5:00 AM), and while cameras aren’t allowed in the basket, phones are welcome for those epic sunrise shots.

Temples by the River: A Day of Scenic Sailing & Ancient Wonders

Wake up this morning gently moored near Edfu, with the soft sounds of the Nile flowing beside you. If you’re feeling curious, you may have the option to explore the town independently and catch a glimpse of the Temple of Horus — one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples — although access is only by horse-drawn carriage, which our company does not support due to important animal welfare standards and feedback regarding guest comfort at the site.

Instead, enjoy a peaceful day cruising the Nile. Stretch out on the sun deck, sip your drink of choice, and watch as golden desert hills rise beyond vibrant green farmlands and palm groves lining the riverbanks — a landscape as timeless as the history that surrounds you.

In the afternoon, arrive at the striking Kom Ombo Temple, dramatically positioned on the river’s edge. This fascinating site is unique in Egypt for being dedicated to two gods: Horus, the falcon-headed protector, and Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility and water. Your leader will guide you through both sides of the temple — north and south — and share recent archaeological discoveries, including mummified crocodiles preserved in Sobek’s honor.

After your exploration, reboard your elegant cruise ship and continue your sail toward Aswan, where you’ll arrive later in the evening — just in time to enjoy another relaxing night on the Nile.

Accommodation:
🚢 Amwaj Nile Cruise (Feature Stay) or similar – 1 night onboard

Meals Included:
🍽️ Breakfast
🍽️ Lunch
🍽️ Dinner

Included Experience:
✔️ Guided tour of Kom Ombo Temple

Special Note:
Out of respect for animal welfare and guest experience, we do not include visits to the Temple of Horus in Edfu, as transportation there involves horse-drawn carriages that don’t meet our ethical standards

From the Land of Pharaohs to the Heart of the Levant – Welcome to Jordan!

Say ma’a salama to Egypt and hop on a flight to Amman, the vibrant and history-rich capital of Jordan. After checking into your hotel, the day is yours to explore until your welcome meeting at 6 PM – where you’ll meet your new leader and possibly a few fresh faces joining for the Jordan leg of the adventure.

Looking for ways to dive into local life? Head straight to Rainbow Street – Amman’s colorful cultural hub where you can grab some mouthwatering falafel, enjoy a chilled shisha, and soak up the buzzing street vibes. Prefer a little art and history? Spend the afternoon wandering the exhibits at the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts, or capture stunning panoramic shots from the hilltop Temple of Hercules.

Feeling indulgent? Treat yourself to a traditional hammam – a steam, a scrub, and pure relaxation. Then, after the group meeting, why not gather your new travel crew and return to Rainbow Street to check out Amman’s cozy rooftop bars and tucked-away local gems? Your leader knows just where to go!

Accommodation
🏨 Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included
🍽 None

Optional Activities

• 🕌 King Abdullah I Mosque – JOD 2

• 🎭 Roman Theatre – JOD 2

• 🏛️ Roman Ruins of Jerash – JOD 10

• 🌊 Al-Maghtas (Bethany Baptism Site) – JOD 12

Good to Know:
This is a combo trip, meaning your group and leader might change today as you transition from Egypt to Jordan. A whole new set of adventures awaits!

From Ancient Streets to Starry Skies – Amman to Wadi Rum

Start your day with a guided walking tour of Amman, led by your local trip leader. Begin at the Citadel, perched high above the city, where sweeping views meet ancient ruins. Then stroll down toward the bustling downtown, passing the majestic Roman Theatre, the elegant remains of the Nymphaeum, and the iconic Al Husseiny Mosque. Along the way, stop by local nut stalls and souqs for tasty Jordanian snacks – it’s the perfect way to discover the flavors of the city.

After lunch, hit the road for a scenic drive to the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your Bedouin hosts, who will introduce you to camp life with endless cups of “Bedouin whisky” – that’s mint tea, served strong, sweet, and full of hospitality.

Tonight, immerse yourself in traditional Bedouin culture, dining on slow-cooked desert cuisine and sleeping in authentic Bedouin-style tents. For the truly adventurous, skip the tent altogether and sleep beneath the open sky, surrounded by Wadi Rum’s surreal, Mars-like mountains. With no city lights, the stars above will feel close enough to touch.

Accommodation
🏜️ Desert Camp (1 night)

Meals Included
🍳 Breakfast
🍽 Dinner

Included Activities

• 🚶‍♂️ Amman Guided Walking Tour

• 🌌 Overnight Bedouin Camp in Wadi Rum

Optional Activity

• 🏛️ Jordan Archaeological Museum – JOD 3

Good to Know:
Today’s travel time is around 4 hours. At camp, you’ll stay in permanent Bedouin tents – simple but cozy, with real beds and thick blankets for chilly desert nights. Temperatures from October to March can dip to 5°C, so don’t forget a warm jacket. There’s no Wi-Fi, but there are hot showers and flushing toilets – all powered by solar energy. The silence, stars, and simplicity will make this one of your most memorable nights.

Waking Up on Mars – Sunrise & Safari in Wadi Rum

Don’t hit snooze – Wadi Rum at sunrise is a sight you simply can’t miss. As the first rays of sunlight stretch across the red sand and carve golden highlights into the rugged cliffs, you’ll understand why this place has enchanted travelers for centuries.

After soaking in the stillness of the morning, it’s time to rev things up with a thrilling 4WD jeep safari. Hop into your jeep and bounce across Wadi Rum’s surreal desert terrain. You’ll visit Lawrence Spring, where water flows from ancient rock formations – offering sweeping views over the valley – and make a stop at Lawrence House, the legendary hideout of T.E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia.

Next, conquer one of Wadi Rum’s towering sand dunes, perfect for a fun climb and epic photo op. Then marvel at the natural rock bridges, sculpted over time by wind and sand into jaw-dropping desert architecture.

This vast, cinematic landscape has starred in films like The Martian, Dune, and Star Wars – and today, you get to write your own adventure in its red-stained sands.

Later in the afternoon, return to your desert camp for another cozy evening of Bedouin hospitality, traditional food, and star-filled skies.

Accommodation
🏜️ Desert Camp (1 night)

Meals Included
🍳 Breakfast
🥗 Lunch
🍽 Dinner

Included Activities

• 🚙 Wadi Rum 4WD Jeep Safari

• 🌄 Sunrise in the Desert

• 🏜️ Visits to Lawrence Spring, Lawrence House, sand dunes & rock bridges

From Desert Dreams to Ancient Glory – Journey to the Rose-Red City of Petra

After breakfast, bid a warm ma’a salama to your Bedouin hosts and set off for one of the world’s most iconic destinations – the legendary city of Petra, carved into rose-colored rock and crowned as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

You’ll have two full days to dive into Petra’s magic, so there’s no need to rush. Start with a guided tour led by your trip leader, who will bring the ruins to life with stories of ancient Nabataean traders, hidden tombs, and epic movie moments (yes, Indiana Jones fans, this is your time to shine!).

Walk through the dramatic Siq, a narrow canyon framed by towering sandstone cliffs, and emerge into the unforgettable view of Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) – Petra’s most famous facade. Then continue on to explore temples, tombs, and an ancient amphitheatre carved directly into the mountainside.

Feeling adventurous? There are incredible hiking trails all around Petra for every fitness level – just ask your leader for recommendations. Whether you climb to the Monastery or find a secret viewpoint above the Treasury, the views will be worth every step.

End your day with a well-earned rest – maybe at the Cave Bar, tucked inside a 2,000-year-old Nabataean tomb, where you can sip a cool drink and soak in the atmosphere of this unforgettable place.

Accommodation
🏨 Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included
🍳 Breakfast

Included Activities

• 🏛️ Guided walking tour of Petra

• 🎟️ Two-day entrance pass to Petra

Optional Activity

• 🌌 Petra By Night Experience – JOD 17

Good to Know:
Travel time today is about 2 hours. Your Petra ticket includes an optional horse ride from the entrance to the start of the Siq. However, for safety and ethical reasons, Intrepid does not recommend using the horses.

A Second Day in Petra – Choose Your Own Adventure

Today is all yours to uncover more of Petra’s ancient secrets at your own pace. Whether you’re chasing epic views, quiet corners, or hidden trails, this rose-red city still has plenty to reveal.

If you missed it yesterday, take time to walk the iconic path back to Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) – one of Petra’s most awe-inspiring sights. Its grand, intricately carved facade is a must-see twice! Feeling adventurous? Tackle the steep climb to El-Deir (The Monastery) – it’s a bit of a hike, but the sweeping views over the mountains are more than worth the effort.

You can also wander off the beaten path to the Royal Tombs, visit Byzantine-era mosaics, or simply wander through the ancient streets and soak in the atmosphere of this once-bustling desert city.

Looking for something extra special? Ask your leader about heading to Little Petra – a charming and less crowded archaeological gem just a short ride away.

Accommodation
🏨 Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included
🍳 Breakfast

Included Activities

• 🎟️ Petra Two-Day Entrance Pass

Optional Activity

• 🏛️ Visit to Little Petra – Free

Need inspiration? Your leader is a walking guidebook – don’t hesitate to ask for the best trails, quietest corners, or secret viewpoints.

Salt, Stories & Sacred Views – From the Dead Sea to Madaba

Start your day with breakfast and an epic road trip along the historic King’s Highway, where ancient landscapes and sacred sites await.

Your first stop is the legendary Dead Sea – the lowest point on Earth and a natural wonder like no other. Slip into its salty waters and float effortlessly, soaking up the sun and letting the minerals work their magic. Sore muscles from Petra? No worries – the rich, black Dead Sea mud is famous for its healing and rejuvenating powers. Go ahead, give yourself a natural spa treatment!

Next, make your way to Mount Nebo, where tradition says Moses stood and gazed out over the Promised Land. From this peaceful summit, take in stunning panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and beyond – a truly moving moment in both history and scenery.

Arrive in the enchanting town of Madaba, known as the City of Mosaics. Your leader will take you on a short orientation walk to help you get to know the area. In the afternoon, explore the famous St George’s Church, where you’ll find the world’s oldest surviving mosaic map of the Holy Land and Jerusalem – a masterpiece made of thousands of tiny tiles.

When the evening rolls around, gather the crew and head out for dinner. Madaba is full of hidden culinary gems, and your leader knows exactly where to find the tastiest local dishes.

🏨 Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)

🍽 Meals Included
Breakfast

✅ Included Activities

• 🧂 Dead Sea Visit & Float

• 🕍 Visit to St George’s Church, Madaba

➕ Optional Activity

• ⛰️ Mount Nebo Entrance – JOD 3

🚐 Travel Time:
Approximately 5 hours, with plenty of unforgettable stops along the way.

Farewell, but Not Goodbye – Your Journey Ends in Madaba

After breakfast this morning, it’s time to say ma’a salama to your unforgettable Jordanian adventure as your trip officially ends in Madaba. But don’t rush off just yet – both Madaba and nearby Amman have so much more to offer! From ancient mosaics to vibrant markets, this is the perfect place to extend your stay and explore a little deeper.

Thinking of hanging around a bit longer? Great idea! Just reach out to your booking agent in advance to arrange extra nights.

🍽 Meals Included
Breakfast

🚗 Travel Info
Madaba is a satellite city of Amman, and airport transfers from here are often quicker and smoother thanks to lighter traffic. You can:

• 🚘 Book a private transfer with Intrepid

• 🚕 Take a local taxi

• 🚌 Or ask your leader about public transport options