Jordan & Egypt Uncovered

Intrepid Travel · 22 days

4.1

19 Reviews

View Map

Duration

22 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Take an epic adventure through Jordan and Egypt and see not one but two of the Seven Wonders of the World – now this is a trip for the bucket list!.

Highlights

Set sail on one of the world’s most iconic rivers with an included felucca trip down the Nile. Relax and soak up the landscapes as scenes of everyday Egyptian life pass you by.
Spend a whole day traversing Petra’s Treasury in Jordan and then head to fascinating Cairo to witness the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.
Bask in the unique atmosphere of Aswan and experience not only the warmth and charm of Nubian hospitality but also some delicious traditional cuisine at a local homestay.
Join Bedouin locals at a desert camp in Wadi Rum for a night of traditional hospitality, good food and epic starry skies. You’ll learn about the Bedouin way of life and fall asleep in the eerie silence of the desert.
Swim in the balmy Red Sea on a snorkelling adventure in Hurghada – sharing a tasty lunch aboard the yacht and looking out for clownfish, turtles and manta rays among the kaleidoscopic coral.

Trip Details

Duration

22 days

Transportation

Plane,Ferry,Minibus,Jeep,Overnight Sleeper train,Felucca,Bus

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Amman, Egypt

Finishes

Cairo, Egypt

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Amman

Ahlan wa sahlan! Welcome to Jordan. Your trip begins in Amman with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight where you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, maybe take in the sweeping views of Amman from the citadel, explore the Jordan Museum (home to the Dead Sea Scrolls), or take a trip out to the ruins of Jerash – an ancient walled town from 2000 years ago. After your meeting, maybe head out on the town in search of ara’yes (Jordan’s toasted sandwich, packed full of spiced meats).

Optional Activities:

Amman - Citadel (entrance) (3 JOD)
Amman - Roman Theatre (2 JOD)
Jerash - Roman ruins - Entry Fee (10 JOD)
Amman - Jordan Archaeological Museum (entrance fee) (3 JOD)
Amman - King Abdullah I Mosque (entrance fee) (2 JOD)
Jordan Valley - Al-Maghtas Bethany Baptism site (entrance fee) (12 JOD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Petra

This morning, travel by minibus to Mt Nebo – the place where the prophet Moses is said to be buried and where he saw the 'Promised Land'. Check out the mosaics inside its fourth-century church. On a clear day, the views over the Dead Sea to Israel and the Palestinian Territories are spectacular. After, drive to the super salty Dead Sea – sitting well below sea level, this is the lowest point on earth, and you’ll float rather than swim due to the high salt count. The mud on the sea floor is said to have healing properties, so maybe lather up and enjoy Mother Nature’s spa. Continue to the crusader castle of Kerak, sitting on top of a cliff overlooking the town and valley below. Explore the seven-level fortress and learn the legends of 12th-century battles between Crusaders and Muslim armies, then continue to Petra for the night.

Optional Activities:

Mt Nebo - Entrance Fee (3 JOD)
Dead Sea - Visit and Swim (17 JOD)
Kerak - Kerak Castle (entrance fee) (2 JOD)
Petra - Petra By Night (30 JOD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Petra

You’ll explore Petra today – the jewel of Jordan, the lost city of the Nabateans and one of the Seven Wonders of the World! Squeeze through a narrow path called the Siq until you reach the grand entrance of the Treasury. Gaze up at the intricate carvings and spend the afternoon exploring the site at your own pace. There’s the old Roman road, other temples and old tombs, as well as the rock-hewn amphitheatre. For those feeling more adventurous, take a challenging hike up a set of stairs to the smaller but no less impressive monastery, which takes about an hour. After arriving back at your accommodation, why not find a traditional bathhouse to rejuvenate after a day of incredible sightseeing.

Included Activities:

Petra - Guided tour (One day pass included)

Optional Activities:

Petra - Additional Petra day pass (5 JOD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Wadi Rum

This morning you’ll drive to Wadi Rum – a rugged, lunar-like landscape framed by huge sandstone mountains. Head on a half-day jeep safari, taking you through some unique desert scenery and uncover traces of ancient civilisations in the many carved inscriptions throughout the area, from pictographs to Thamudic, Nabataean and Arabic texts. The most enduring monuments in Wadi Rum are those carved by nature – natural rock bridges, towering sand dunes and scattered rocky peaks. Spend the night sleeping in a simple desert camp under a camel hair tent. Enjoy dinner cooked in an earthen oven by your Bedouin hosts and soak in the unforgettable surroundings.

Included Activities:

Wadi Rum - 4WD jeep safari
Wadi Rum - Bedouin Desert Camp
Wadi Rum - Zarb Local Dinner

Accommodation:

Desert camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Nuweiba

This morning, leave Wadi Rum and make tracks for Nuweiba. You’ll drive to Aqaba, then bid your Jordan local leader farewell and transfer on a ferry bound for Taba. When you arrive, you’ll be met by your Egypt local leader and make your way to your accommodation in Nuweiba. Then enjoy a free afternoon to rest, relax or explore at your own pace.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Dahab

It's a short drive to the laidback resort area of Dahab – your base for the next two nights. Dahab, meaning 'gold' in Arabic, has gone from a Bedouin fishing village to a popular tourist town, thanks to the excellent conditions for activities like diving, windsurfing and rock climbing. However, the town hasn't lost its authenticity and lowkey appeal that’s attracted visitors since the 1970s. The rest of the day is free for you to wander through the cafes, find some fresh seafood or take on some snorkelling in the Red Sea. Dahab is well known for its drop-offs – spectacular coral reef shelves that plunge into the vast blue depths of the ocean. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants to sit back and enjoy good local food and some sheesha.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Dahab

In the morning, why not strap on a mask and head to the Blue Hole for some snorkelling at one of the best diving spots in the world. The area gets its name from a submarine sinkhole about 94 m deep, with an arch in the coral reef down at 54 m – a challenge that’s only open to highly experienced technical divers. Snorkellers can enjoy one of the greatest spots in the Red Sea here. Float on the surface and look down into an endless world of blue, then make your way around to ‘the Bridge’, where the visibility is always great and the untouched coral swarms with all different types of colourful fish and marine life. After you’ve had your fill of snorkelling, return to Dahab for an evening feast at a waterside restaurant, or maybe head inland to Assalah, where local joints serve up plates of roast chicken and falafel with regional beer.

Optional Activities:

Dahab - Blue Hole snorkelling (35 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Cairo

Today, jump on a flight to Egypt's chaotic capital. Cairo is one of the great ancient cities and its history can be symbolised by two imposing landmarks – the Pyramids of Giza and the Mosque of Mohammed Ali. You’ll have a second meeting at 6 pm tonight to get to know your new group. Beforehand, maybe explore the Mosque of Mohammed Ali at your own pace or head out to explore the local markets. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle, the Christian Coptic sector is well worth a visit. Tonight, why not get dinner with your group and celebrate the next stage of an epic journey.

Optional Activities:

Cairo - The Citadel (entrance fee) (550 EGP)
Cairo - Coptic Museum (entrance fee) (280 EGP)
Cairo - Islamic Art Museum (entrance fee) (340 EGP)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Cairo

After breakfast, set out to see some of Egypt’s most renowned sights. Visit Giza’s pyramids – one of the Seven Wonders of the World – and the Sphinx. Explore these structures that have stood tall for 4500 years. You may even be able to go inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu for an additional charge. After, maybe make your way to the Egyptian Museum – home to one of the world's great collections of antiquities. Perhaps wander the treasure-filled halls of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization and check out the Mummies Hall for a close encounter with some of the country’s most important queens and pharaohs. Later, meet your leader and travel to Giza train station, where you’ll board a sleeper train to Aswan.

Included Activities:

Cairo - Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

Optional Activities:

Cairo - The Great Pyramid of Cheops (entrance fee) (1000 EGP)
Cairo - The 3rd Pyramid of Menkawre (entrance fee) (280 EGP)
Cairo - The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization & The Royal Mummy Room (entrance fee) (550 EGP)
Cairo - Saqqara and Memphis Urban Adventure (49 USD)
Cairo - The Egyptian Museum (minimum 2 people) (50 USD)

Accommodation:

Overnight sleeper train (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Aswan

The Nile, Elephantine Island and white-sailed feluccas – welcome to Aswan, Egypt's southernmost city. Today is a free day so take the opportunity to see the sites, like the unfinished obelisk or the High Dam. The Nubian Bazaar is a must, and the Nubian Museum is at the top of many visitors’ lists. Maybe visit the Temple of Isis (goddess of health, marriage and wisdom), which was rescued from the rising waters of the Nile and relocated to Philae Island. It's a marvel of decorative pylons featuring some of Egypt's finest carvings. Stop at the waterfront promenade for a mint tea and maybe watch the waterfront come alive at dusk, with families out strolling, socialising and relaxing along the corniche.

Optional Activities:

Aswan - Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple (55 USD)
Aswan - Nubian Museum (entrance fee) (400 EGP)
Aswan - Tomb of the Nobles (entrance fee) (200 EGP)
Aswan - Philae Temple (entrance fee) (550 EGP)
Aswan - Monastery of St. Simeon (entrance fee) (100 EGP)
Aswan - Philae Temple Tour (minimum 2 people) (40 USD)
Aswan - High Dam and Unfinished Obelisk Tour (minimum 2 people) (entrance, guide & transport) (25 USD)
Aswan - Philae Temple Sound and Light Show (entrance fee, minimum 2 people) (20 USD)
Aswan - Philae Temple, High Dam and Unfinished Obelisk Tour (minimum 2 people) (65 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Aswan

This morning is your best chance to head out of Aswan and visit Abu Simbel, if that’s on your list. With the four gargantuan statues of Ramses guarding the Great Temple, this is one of Egypt's most memorable sights. Otherwise, the day is free for you to make your own discoveries. A popular afternoon option is a sailboat ride around the islands in a traditional felucca, stopping off at the botanical gardens on Kitchener's Island. Your local leader will be on hand to help you get the most out of your day. You may prefer to just relax and take in the beauty of the Nile or do some shopping in the vibrant bazaar.

Optional Activities:

Aswan - Abu Simbel Tour (minimum 4 people) (110 USD)
Aswan - Nubian Village Visit and Dinner (minimum 4 people) (20 USD)
Aswan - Abu Simbel by Air - subject to availability - from (Per Person) (450 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Nubian Homestay

This morning, jump on a traditional Egyptian sailboat (or felucca) for a morning sail. After lunch on board the felucca, arrive at a Nubian homestay on the west bank of the Nile. Here, you’ll learn about the local way of life with a walk through the surrounding countryside and agriculture fields to reach the homestay. The house is in traditional Nubian style, with a sandy courtyard in the middle where the family gathers for meals. Get into the swing of Egyptian life by lending a hand in the kitchen to help cook dinner, or maybe kick around a football in the courtyard with the kids. There are few better ways to understand a country and its people than with a local homestay, and you’ll have the chance tonight to soak it all up.

Accommodation:

Homestay (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Nile Felucca

Board another felucca today and enjoy a day out on the river, seeing rural Egyptian daily life play out on the banks before spending a night under the stars. Your sailing crew will provide all your onboard meals. The felucca is a traditional wooden boat with broad canvas sails, offering some shade and protection from the elements, but there is no cabin or enclosed section – watching the sun setting over the Nile in the evening from an open deck is an experience you won't forget.

Included Activities:

Nile - Felucca overnight sailing trip

Optional Activities:

Aswan - Kom Ombo Temple (entrance fee) (450 EGP)

Accommodation:

Nile Felucca (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Luxor

After farewelling the felucca crew, take a private van to Luxor. Today, you’ll explore Karnak Temple, maybe the most impressive of all the ancient pharoahs' monumental works. One of the world's most celebrated temple complexes, Karnak is a house of the gods built over a period of some 200 years. Your guided tour of this vast temple of pylons, obelisks and chapels will reveal its finest sections, such as the Avenue of Sphinxes and the Great Temple of Amun. Then, head over to our Intrepid Foundation partner, Animal Care in Egypt (ACE), a local NGO dedicated to providing free veterinary care for wounded working animals in the region. The rest of the day will be free to relax, shop in the bazaar (open until quite late) or soak up the atmosphere of a local teahouse.

Included Activities:

Luxor - Karnak Temple
Luxor - Animal Care in Egypt (The Intrepid Foundation Partner) visit

Optional Activities:

Edfu - Edfu Temple (entrance fee) (550 EGP)
Luxor - Luxor Temple (entrance fee) (500 EGP)
Luxor - Luxor Museum (entrance fee) (400 EGP)
Luxor - Karnak Temple Sound & Light Show Tour (minimum 2 people) (entrance, guide & transport ) (45 USD)
Luxor - Mummification Museum (entrance fee) (220 EGP)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Luxor

Rise early this morning and head into the Valley of the Kings. Buried under the arid hills are over 60 tombs of pharaohs, many richly decorated with reliefs and paintings. With your leader, explore where the pharaohs of the New Kingdom (16th to 11th century BC) were secretly interred for all eternity, and where discoveries are still being made. Your leader will explain the history and legends of these remarkable people, their funerary rites and the significance of the many paintings and hieroglyphics, still well-preserved in the deepest tombs. Visit three of the most interesting royal tombs and then continue to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut – a colonnaded building set against high cliffs that create a natural amphitheatre.

Included Activities:

Luxor - Valley of the Kings (entrance to 3 tombs)
Luxor - Hatshepsut Temple

Optional Activities:

Luxor - Tomb of Tutankhamun (entrance fee) (700 EGP)
Luxor - Dinner with a local family (minimum 2 people) (25 USD)
Luxor - Hot Air Balloon over the Valley of the Kings (Per Person) (120 USD)
Luxor - Medinat Habu Temple (entrance fee) (220 EGP)
Luxor - Tomb of Queen Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens (entrance fee) (2500 EGP)
Luxor - Valley of the Queens (entrance fee) (220 EGP)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Hurghada

This morning, farewell the Nile to drive east to the beachside town of Hurghada. The green Nile valley is soon left behind as you head out into the Eastern Desert. As you pass by rocky hills, the glittering waters of the Red Sea come into view and the rugged bulk of the Sinai Peninsula looms on the opposite shore. A vibrant beach resort, Hurghada is by no means a typical adventure destination. After checking in to your hotel, take a leader-led orientation walk to get your bearings and to scope out some of the local restaurants.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Hurghada

Transfer to the Hurghada Marina and climb aboard your motor yacht for a trip around the Red Sea Marine Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel one of the most magnificent reefs in the Red Sea. Your captain will select three separate locations to maximise your experience and snorkelling gear is provided. Lunch will consist of a delicious feast of kofta, salads, fish and rice and soft drinks, tea and coffee will be provided throughout the day. Head back to Hurghada mid to late afternoon and transfer back to the hotel.

Included Activities:

Hurghada – Red Sea Snorkelling Adventure

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Cairo

Make the journey back to Cairo by private vehicle. When you arrive, visit the Islamic parts of the city and the frenetic backstreets of the local Khan el-Khalili bazaar with your leader. The ‘Khan’ is one of the biggest and oldest markets in the world, sprawling around an old area known as Al-Azhar. You might explore the gold market, ‘Perfume Street’ and the spice market, where heady aromas hang in the air like a thick blanket of Damascene cloth (which can be purchased next door in the cloth market!).

Included Activities:

Cairo - Khan al-Khalili bazaar visit

Optional Activities:

Cairo - Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids Tour (minimum 2 people) (55 USD)
Cairo - Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids (entrance fee) (20 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Alexandria

Jump in a private van today and follow the ‘desert road’ to the Mediterranean coastal city of Alexandria. Egypt's second largest city and main port, locals call this vibrant city the Bride of the Mediterranean Sea. When you arrive, take an orientation walk with your leader. The Greek architect Dinocrates built Alexandria in 331 BC under the orders of Alexander the Great. The city, immortalising Alexander's name, quickly flourished into a prominent cultural, intellectual, political and economic metropolis. Take some time to stroll along the corniche and take in some fresh Mediterranean air.

Optional Activities:

Alexandria - Qaitbay fortress (entrance fee) (200 EGP)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Alexandria

Today, head back to a more recent period in Egyptian history with a visit to El Alamein and the war museum. The area was a turning point in the North African campaign, where the Allies held out against, and eventually pushed back and defeated, the Afrika Korps of Rommel. The area contains several memorials from the countries who lost soldiers here – Greece, South Africa, Australia, Italy – as well as a war cemetery that’s home to the graves and names of the thousands who lost their lives. In the museum, discover the story of the events that unfolded here, and then return to Alexandria. Alexandria is well known for its seafood, so don't forget to feast on some fresh fish while you're in town.

Included Activities:

El Alamein - War Museum

Optional Activities:

Alamein - Commonwealth Cemetery - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 21: Cairo

This morning, head underground and delve into the mysteries of the Kom Ash Shuqqafa catacombs. This Roman burial site is the largest of its kind in Egypt and was discovered, quite accidentally, by a donkey! The crypts are 20 m below street level and what probably began as a small family tomb grew into a labyrinth of chambers that could accommodate more than 300 bodies. Stop by the strikingly modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, inspired by the original great library of Alexandria and built to hold over 8 million books. After, head to El Morsi Abu El Abbas Mosque – the largest in the city. During your free time, maybe visit the Citadel of Qaitbay – a fortress overlooking the Mediterranean Sea where the famous lighthouse once stood. You’ll then leave Alexandria and return to Cairo. Tonight, why not gather your travel crew for a celebratory kebab, kofta or sheesha.

Included Activities:

Alexandria - Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
Alexandria - Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Alexandria - Morsi Abu El Abbas Mosque

Optional Activities:

Alexandria - Alexandria National Museum (entrance fee) (220 EGP)
Alexandria - Roman Amphitheatre (entrance fee) (200 EGP)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 22: Cairo

Your trip finishes today after breakfast. There are no activities planned and you can depart the accommodation at any time following check-out. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $4,890

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 22 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Take an epic adventure through Jordan and Egypt and see not one but two of the Seven Wonders of the World – now this is a trip for the bucket list!.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 23 Nov 2025

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

Trevor

Traveled, October 2023

11/11/2023

This was a pretty good trip. It's basic level so don't expect champaign quality on a beer price. There were a couple of things that were not intrepids fault such as the ferry from Akaba to Neuweba being canceled. But it was a pretty good tour overall.

3.5

Marie Gilberte

Traveled, October 2023

11/19/2023

Overall decebt itinerary. Would suggest a more experienced leader for Egypt. Better and cleaner accomodations. Half-day doing the feluccia would be sufficient. Other areas to visit in Egypt that were not included in this itinerary. More optional activities would be nice.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now