20-Day Egypt, Jordan and Turkey Tour

Day 1: Arrive in Cairo, Airport Transfer and Free Day

Upon your arrival at Cairo Airport, our company representative will welcome you in the arrivals area. Look for a signboard bearing your name. After a warm meet and greet, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Cairo. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Relax and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

• Overnight in Cairo
• Included Meal(s): No meals are included on this day
• Accommodation: Pyramisa Suites Hotel and Casino OR Hilton Cairo Heliopolis or similar (Standard quality)

Day 2: Cairo – Giza Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Coptic and Islamic Cairo and Khan El Khalili

After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel around 8:00 am to begin a guided tour of Cairo’s most iconic sights.

The first stop is the Giza Plateau, where you’ll marvel at the Great Pyramid of Cheops, the Pyramid of Chephren, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. These incredible monuments, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, stand as a testament to ancient Egyptian engineering. Here, you’ll also visit the Great Sphinx of Giza, a mythical figure with the body of a lion and the head of a human, symbolizing power and wisdom.

Following this visit, you’ll enjoy a lunch break at a local Egyptian restaurant.

After lunch, the tour continues into Coptic Cairo, where you’ll visit the historic Hanging Church and explore the Coptic Museum. Then, the itinerary leads you into Islamic Cairo, where you’ll discover historical mosques and madrasas, including highlights like the stunning Sultan Hassan Mosque and Al-Azhar Mosque.

In the afternoon, you’ll wander through the lively alleys of Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo’s famed marketplace, where you’ll find everything from traditional crafts to spices and souvenirs. The day wraps up at the Egyptian Museum, home to an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the renowned golden treasures of Tutankhamun.

After the tour, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel at approximately 5:00 pm, with the rest of the day free for you to relax at your leisure.

• Overnight in Cairo
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
• Accommodation: Pyramisa Suites Hotel and Casino OR Hilton Cairo Heliopolis or similar (Standard quality)

Day 3: Fly from Cairo to Luxor – Embark on a Nile Cruise

After breakfast, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a private half-day tour of Luxor’s famed West Bank, starting with the remarkable Valley of the Kings. Here, you’ll explore three impressive royal tombs, learning about the ancient Egyptians’ burial practices and admiring the vivid paintings and hieroglyphics that adorn the walls. You will also have the opportunity to visit the final resting place of Tutankhamun, commonly known as King Tut, alongside over 60 other pharaohs’ tombs nestled in the valley.

Next, you’ll see the towering Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues standing 55 feet tall that once marked the entrance to an ancient funerary temple. Then, visit the magnificent Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an architectural wonder dedicated to one of Egypt’s most iconic pharaohs, beautifully set against the desert cliffs.

In the late afternoon, you’ll board your luxurious Nile River cruise ship, where you’ll settle in and prepare for the enchanting journey ahead.

• Overnight aboard the Nile River Cruise.
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 4: Nile Cruise: Private Exploration of Karnak Temple

After breakfast, you’ll set out on an exclusive tour of the legendary Karnak Temple. This vast temple complex, one of the most remarkable in Egypt, spans nearly 2,000 years of history, with parts dating back to 2,055 BC. As you explore its grand halls, towering columns, and intricately carved hieroglyphics, your guide will share stories of the pharaohs who left their mark on this sacred site.

Once your tour of Karnak Temple concludes, you’ll return to your Nile Cruise ship, your home for the next four nights. Spend the afternoon settling in, lounging by the pool, or taking some time to explore the nearby town at your leisure.

• Overnight aboard the Nile River Cruise.
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 5: Nile Cruise – Private Exploration of Edfu & Kom Ombo

After breakfast on board, the ship will anchor at the historic town of Edfu. A charming horse-drawn carriage will transport you to the Temple of Horus at Edfu, built between 237-57 BC. This private visit allows for an intimate experience at one of Egypt’s most well-preserved temples, offering a glimpse into ancient religious practices and the grandeur of Egyptian architecture.

As the cruise continues down the Nile, you’ll reach the impressive Temple of Kom Ombo, uniquely dedicated to both the falcon god Horus and the crocodile god Sobek. Built around 181 BC during the Greco-Roman era, this riverside temple is known for its dual design and stunning reliefs, beautifully reflected in the calm waters of the Nile. With a private tour arranged, you’ll gain insight into its architectural significance and ancient beliefs.

• Overnight aboard the Nile River Cruise.
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 6: Nile Cruise in Aswan

After breakfast on board, set sail to Philae Island where the enchanting Temple of Isis awaits. Pay homage to the Goddess of health, marriage, and wisdom as you explore this architectural masterpiece. Adorned with exquisite pylons and boasting some of Egypt’s most intricate carvings, the temple stands as a testament to the grandeur of Upper Egypt.

As the afternoon sun bathes the Nile, embark on a serene journey aboard a traditional wooden Felucca. Let the gentle currents guide you, as you immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the surrounding landscape.

• Overnight aboard the Nile River Cruise.
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 7: Nile Cruise End – Fly back to Cairo

After breakfast, you’ll disembark from the Nile River Cruise and be transferred to Aswan’s airport for your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, our representative will be there to assist and facilitate your transfer to your hotel.

Optional Tour: Abu Simbel Temples
Start your day with an early morning journey to the remarkable Abu Simbel Temples, renowned for their monumental grandeur. These temples, carved directly into the mountainside, are among Egypt’s most iconic landmarks and are second in popularity only to the Great Pyramids. This unforgettable excursion is available at an additional cost of USD 150 per person.

• Overnight in Cairo
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Pyramisa Suites Hotel and Casino OR Hilton Cairo Heliopolis or similar (Standard quality)

Day 8: Fly from Cairo to Amman (Airfare Not Included)

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Cairo International Airport for a flight to Amman. Upon arrival at Queen Alia Airport, our representative will meet and assist you through the customs and immigration procedures. Transfer to the hotel in Amman. The rest of your day is free to relax, explore, or perhaps get to know the city at your own pace.

Kindly note that the international airfare from Cairo to Amman is not covered in this tour package. Arranging and purchasing this flight is your responsibility.

• Overnight in Amman
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Sulaf Luxury OR Seven Roses Hotel OR Downtown Hotel Apartments or similar (Standard quality)

Day 9: Jerash – Ajlun – Amman

After breakfast, set out to explore the ancient Roman city of Jerash, one of the world’s most remarkably preserved Roman archaeological sites. Dating back over 6,500 years, Jerash was embraced by the Roman Empire in 63 BC and showcases an exquisite blend of Roman and Middle Eastern architectural artistry. Once hidden beneath sand, this historical gem has been brought to light, revealing its splendor to modern-day visitors.

During your visit, highlights include the majestic hippodrome, the Temple of Artemis, dedicated to the city’s patron goddess, and the Jerash Archaeological Museum, which houses an array of fascinating artifacts unearthed from this storied city.

Your journey continues to Ajlun Castle, perched atop a mountain and offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. This 12th-century fortress, with its intricate network of passageways and chambers, showcases distinctive Islamic military architecture and provides insight into the region’s medieval history.

After the tour, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Amman, with the remainder of the day free to relax at your leisure.

• Overnight in Amman
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Sulaf Luxury OR Seven Roses Hotel OR Downtown Hotel Apartments or similar (Standard quality)

Day 10: Madaba – Mt. Nebo – Kerak – Petra

After breakfast, you will be picked up to begin your journey toward the legendary city of Petra, with stops at some of Jordan’s most iconic historical sites along the way.

Your first destination is the revered Mt. Nebo (also known as Siyagha), an important spiritual site commemorating the Prophet Moses. According to tradition, this is where Moses first viewed the Promised Land. Here, you’ll explore the remnants of an ancient monastery and a church adorned with beautiful mosaic floors. On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of the Jordan Valley, distant Judah and Jericho, and the tranquil Dead Sea.

The next stop is St. George’s Greek Orthodox Basilica in Madaba, home to the world’s oldest mosaic map. This 6th-century masterpiece, which spans regions from Lebanon to Egypt and from the desert to the Mediterranean, is a stunning piece of Jordan’s cultural heritage.

Afterward, take part in a culinary experience with a local chef, preparing a traditional Arabic meal together using authentic ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and savor the flavors of Jordan’s cuisine.

Your journey continues to the grand Kerak Castle, a massive Crusader fortress with impressive walls and hidden chambers, echoing tales of medieval power struggles. The castle’s strategic location and architectural marvels provide insight into Jordan’s role in Crusader history.

Upon arrival in Petra, you’ll check into your hotel and have time to relax, preparing for the wonders that await you in this ancient city.

• Overnight in Petra
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Petra Moon Hotel OR Sella Hotel OR Petra Boutique Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 11: Petra – Wadi Rum

After breakfast, you’ll be picked up for a guided tour of the ancient city of Petra, Jordan’s renowned “Pink City” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled between the Red and Dead Seas. Known for its extraordinary architecture, Petra was carved from a massive rock face over 2,000 years ago, showcasing the artistry and engineering of the Nabataeans.

Your exploration begins with a walk through the iconic SIQ, a breathtaking passageway framed by towering cliffs, leading you to The Treasury—Petra’s most famous landmark. As you continue, you’ll encounter The Amphitheater and the magnificent Ad-Deir Monastery, accessible via a climb of 800 rock-carved steps, where sweeping views of the valley await.

After taking in the wonders of Petra, you’ll travel onward to Wadi Rum, the vast desert landscape known for its striking red sands and dramatic rock formations. Here, a traditional Bedouin dinner awaits, offering a taste of local hospitality. You’ll spend the night at a desert campsite within the protected area of Wadi Rum, in comfortable tents equipped with modern amenities, perfect for enjoying the sunset, sunrise, and the star-studded sky.

• Overnight in Wadi Rum
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Accommodation: Sun City Camp in Wadi Rum or similar (Standard quality)

Day 12: Wadi Rum Camp – Wadi Rum 3 Hours Jeep Ride – Dead Sea

After breakfast, you will be picked up for an exciting 3-hour exploration of the vast Wadi Rum desert. With your Bedouin guide, you’ll board a 4×4 to journey deeper into this majestic landscape. The shifting colors of the sands and rugged mountains, along with the desert’s peaceful ambiance, make Wadi Rum one of the world’s most breathtaking desert environments and a popular backdrop for Hollywood films.

During the ride, you’ll encounter canyons, red sand dunes, ancient Nabatean rock inscriptions, and naturally formed rock bridges—each a testament to millennia of natural sculpting.

Following your desert adventure, you’ll set off on a four-hour drive to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax and take in the unique surroundings.

• Overnight in Dead Sea
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Dead Sea Spa Hotel OR Ramada Resort OR Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea or similar (Standard quality)

Day 13: Leisure Day at the Dead Sea

Enjoy a free day to relax and make the most of your hotel’s amenities along the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea, with easy access to the beach. Take this time to experience the unique sensation of floating in the mineral-rich waters, renowned for their therapeutic qualities. Bask in the serene atmosphere and let the day unfold as you soak up the rejuvenating effects of this natural wonder.

• Overnight in Dead Sea
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Dead Sea Spa Hotel OR Ramada Resort OR Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea or similar (Standard quality)

Day 14: Departure from Dead Sea, Arrival in Istanbul (Airfare Not Included)

After breakfast at your Dead Sea accommodation, a transfer will take you to Amman International Airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon landing at Istanbul Airport, our representative will be on hand to assist you with customs and immigration formalities. You will then be transferred to your hotel in Istanbul.

Kindly note that the international airfare from Amman to Istanbul is not covered in this tour package. Arranging and purchasing this flight is your responsibility.

• Overnight in Istanbul
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Antea Hotel Oldcity OR Muyan Suites OR Deluxe Golden Horn Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 15: Istanbul Byzantine and Ottoman Relics Tour

After breakfast, around 8:30 am, you will be picked up from your hotel to begin the full-day guided tour of Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman treasures.

The tour will start with a visit to the grand Hagia Sophia, a majestic structure that began as a cathedral, later served as a mosque, and is now a museum, showcasing centuries of history from both Christian and Islamic cultures.

Next, visit the iconic Blue Mosque, famous for its striking blue tiles and six towering minarets. This impressive building remains an active place of worship and a hallmark of Ottoman architecture.

From there, you’ll explore the Hippodrome, which was once the center of Byzantine public life and the venue for chariot races and other social events. Here, you’ll see important monuments, including the Obelisk of Theodosius, Serpent Column, and German Fountain.

After visiting these key historical sites, you’ll enjoy a lunch break at a local restaurant, where you can sample traditional Turkish cuisine and take a moment to relax.

Following lunch, the tour continues with a visit to the stunning Topkapi Palace, the lavish residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. You’ll explore the palace’s vast courtyards, jewel-filled treasuries, and, optionally, the Harem, the private quarters of the sultan’s family.

The final stop of the day will be at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, the bazaar offers a wide range of goods, from spices and carpets to jewelry and ceramics, providing an exciting experience for both shoppers and culture enthusiasts.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel around 5:00 pm. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure, whether you choose to explore more of Istanbul on your own or simply relax.

• Overnight in Istanbul
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
• Accommodation: Antea Hotel Oldcity OR Muyan Suites OR Deluxe Golden Horn Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 16: Fly to Denizli – Pamukkale Tour

You will be picked up from your hotel around 4:00 am and transferred to the airport for your flight to Denizli, departing between 6:00 and 8:00 am. Upon arrival at Denizli Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to Pamukkale, where you’ll meet your professional tour guide to begin your full-day tour of Pamukkale and Hierapolis.

Today’s tour will start around 10:45 am with the first stop at Karahayit, where you can see the famous Red Spring Waters, known for their unique thermal properties. Afterward, the tour will proceed to Pamukkale, where you’ll start exploring the ancient city of Hierapolis. Key sites you’ll visit include the Necropolis, Roman Baths, Domitian Gate, Agora, Triton Fountain, Plutonium, and the Theater.

Following this, a lunch break will be served at a local restaurant. After lunch, you will have 1 hour of free time to explore the natural wonders of Pamukkale. During this time, you may also choose to swim in the Cleopatra Antique Pools (optional, at your own expense).

Later, you will meet back with the guide and the group at the designated meeting point to take a walk along the famous Cotton Cliffs (travertines).

After the tour, around 4:00 pm, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kuşadası, arriving at approximately 7:30 pm for check-in. Once settled, you can relax and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

• Overnight in Kusadasi
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
• Accommodation: Efe Boutique Hotel OR Neopol Hotel Deluxe OR Derici Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 17: Ephesus Tour – Fly to Kayseri/Nevsehir from Izmir

After breakfast, check out of your hotel at around 8:30 am. You will then be picked up to begin your full-day tour of Ephesus, the ancient Greek city that played a vital role as a cultural and commercial hub in its time. During your visit, you’ll explore key highlights such as the Temple of Hadrian, the Great Theater, and the Trajan Fountain.

After lunch, the tour continues with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, where it is believed she spent her last years. Next, you will pass by the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, though little remains of the structure today.

Then, explore the beautiful Isa Bey Mosque, a fine example of Seljuk architecture.

After the tour, at approximately 4:00 pm, you will be driven to Izmir Airport for your late evening flight to Kayseri or Nevsehir via Istanbul. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a representative holding a sign with your name and transferred to your hotel.

• Overnight in Cappadocia
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
• Accommodation: Heaven Cave House OR Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel OR Holiday Cave Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 18: North Cappadocia Tour

For an additional option, you can book an early morning hot air balloon ride and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the valleys. Please note that this activity comes at an extra cost.

After breakfast around 9:30 am, you will be picked up from your hotel to begin the full-day tour of North Cappadocia. Your tour starts with a visit to Devrent Valley, famous for its unique fairy chimneys. Next, you will visit Pasabag Valley (Monks Valley) to see the mushroom-shaped pinnacles.

Afterward, you will drive to the town of Avanos, known for its pottery and ceramics, where you will stop for lunch. After lunch, the tour continues with a visit to the Zelve Open Air Museum. This museum offers an insightful look into the region’s monastic history, featuring carved caves and ancient churches.

Finally, before returning to your hotel, you will have about 15 minutes to take panoramic pictures of Uchisar Castle from the outside, as entry to the interior of the castle is not permitted.

After the tour ends at around 4:00 pm, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore the city at your own pace, or participate in optional activities.

For additional activities, you can choose a Turkish Night show with dinner, a 2-hour ATV tour, a 2-hour horseback riding tour through Cappadocia’s valleys, or attend a 1-hour Whirling Dervish show, where you can witness the enchanting Sufi tradition. All these activities are available at an extra cost.

• Overnight in Cappadocia
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
• Accommodation: Heaven Cave House OR Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel OR Holiday Cave Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 19: South Cappadocia Tour – Fly back to Istanbul

After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel. At approximately 9:30 am, you will be picked up and met by your tour guide to begin your full-day tour of South Cappadocia. Your guide will brief you on the day’s activities. The tour starts with a visit to the Red Valley, where you can explore the famous rock-cut churches and hike approximately 5 km through the Rose Valley (Gulludere Vadisi).

Next, you will visit Cavusin Village, renowned for its historic houses and churches once home to Christian clergymen. Afterward, you’ll take a break for lunch around noon.

Following lunch, the tour continues with a visit to Pigeon Valley (Guvercinlik Vadisi), known for its breathtaking landscapes. In the afternoon, you will explore either the Kaymakli Underground City or Ozkonak Underground City, where early Christians sought refuge.

At the end of the tour, around 4:00 pm, you will be taken to either Kayseri or Nevsehir airport for your late evening flight back to Istanbul. Upon arriving in Istanbul, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will stay overnight.

• Overnight in Istanbul
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
• Accommodation: Muyan Suites OR Antea Hotel Oldcity OR Deluxe Golden Horn Hotel OR Ayasultan Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 20: Departure from Istanbul – End of Tour Service

After breakfast, you will check out from your hotel in Istanbul (hotel check-out is before 12:00 noon) and will then be transferred to the Istanbul International Airport according to your flight details. This will be the end of our tour and services.

• Included Meal(s): Breakfast

INCLUDED in the Tour Price:

• Pick-up and drop-off between airport & hotel.
• Domestic flight tickets, as specified in the itinerary, for both Egypt and Turkey.
• 3 nights in Cairo at a 5-star hotel, including breakfast.
• 4 nights on a Nile cruise, full board.
• 2 nights in Amman at a 4-star hotel, including breakfast.
• 1 night in Petra at a 4-star hotel, including breakfast.
• 1 night in Wadi Rum at Sun City Camp, including breakfast.
• 2 nights at the Dead Sea in a 4-star hotel, including breakfast.
• 3 nights in Istanbul at a 4-star hotel, including breakfast.
• 1 night in Kusadasi at a 4-star hotel, including breakfast.
• 2 nights in Cappadocia at a cave hotel, including breakfast.
• English-speaking guide during tours in Turkey and Egypt.
• English-speaking driver during the tour in Jordan.
• Local guide in Jerash (1 hr).
• Local guide in Petra (2 hrs).
• 3-hour jeep ride in Wadi Rum.
• Meals as per itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
• Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.
• Local taxes and service charges.

NOT INCLUDED:

• International Flight Tickets.
• Flight tickets from Cairo to Amman and Amman to Istanbul.
• Visa to enter Turkey, Egypt & Jordan.
• Escorting tour guide.
• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride.
• Optional tours mentioned in the program, they will be provided at an additional cost.
• Services not mentioned in the program.
• Drinks with meals.
• Travel insurance (recommended).

IMPORTANT INFO:

• The order of the itinerary is indicative and subject to change, but all visits described will take place.
• This tour will be private in Egypt and Jordan but in a shared group tour in Turkey.
• Vegetarian lunch option available upon request.
• For 2 travelers: 1 Double/Twin Room Accommodation.
• For 3 travelers: 1 Triple Room Accommodation.
• For 4 travelers: 2 Double/Twin Rooms Accommodation.
• For 5 travelers: 1 Double/Twin Room and 1 Triple Room Accommodation.
• Please note that the Blue Mosque is not open for visitation on Fridays as it is closed for religious prayer services. You will only be able to visit the outside of the Blue Mosque area on tours operated on Fridays. No visitation will be allowed inside the Blue Mosque for tourists on Fridays.
• Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesday, it will be replaced with the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici).
• Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday.
• During religious holidays, the spice market and Grand Bazaar are closed.
• On flights luggage allowance is 15 kg per person for checked in luggage. For carry-on, you can take up to 8 kg per person. One carry-on is allowed per person.