trip to israel egypt and jordan

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Egypt, Jordan and Israel Tours & Trips

Egypt , the gateway to the Middle East , carries centuries of history along the Nile River past Egyptian pyramids and temples. Once you reach Cairo, you can easily get to Israel 's holy land in Jerusalem. You'll notice that despite their proximity, Tel Aviv has an entirely different vibe and just a few kilometres over the border, Jordan hides another ancient treasure, a valley of magnificent temples and tombs, known as Petra .

142 Egypt, Jordan and Israel tour packages with 310 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Best of Holy Land Israel & Jordan and Egypt Tour with Nile Cruise - 17 Days

The Israel part of the tour was excellent. We had done the Holy Land tour previously as a pilgrimage with another group. This tour complimented that experience. Our guide, Mark, was excellent. We especially appreciated that he was easy to understand, had complete control of the group, and was completely honest in discussing the current political/social situation facing the country. Similarly, the Jordan part of the tour was great. Aladan was a great guide. We especially appreciated his advice on how to avoid the pitfalls of dealing with vendors. He was easy to understand, and very knowledgeable. We were surprised in Egypt that we wound up with Sylvia tours. We were not prepared for having essentially a private tour. But Sylvia tours was excellent. The accommodations were very good, including the boat on the Nile. We could have used a little more information about tipping on the boat, as well as about the need to have cash to pay the entry fee into Egypt. Our guide, Shadie, made up for his difficulty in communicating in English with his enthusiasm and warm personality. We especially appreciated the assistance of Sylvia personnel in helping us around the airports—Mohammad was especially helpful in Cairo. The facilities were excellent in Egypt.

Highlights of the Holy Land Israel & Jordan & Cairo Tour - 13 Days

Arrival at Tel Aviv was not as expected. I have to wait more than 30 min for the guide showing my name. They didn´t answer phne, but after 35 min I received a call. Transfer to Jordan and Egypt borders was well organized.

• Coach / Bus

Israel, Jordan and Egypt 10 days

Great trip! All the logistics were planned very well. Be aware that all the tours require a stop at a "preferred" gift shop and restaurant, but otherwise, it was a fantastic experience.

• River Cruise

Israel, Jordan and Egypt with Nile Cruise 12 days

Traveled to Israel, Jordan and Egypt and got to experience its history, ruins, culture, and food. It was a great lifetime experience! Saw all the sights, met great people, and felt safe as a mother and daughter pair who traveled alone. Thank you

Israel, Jordan and Cairo ( 15 days )

Classical Jerusalem, Jordan and Cairo

Egypt, Jordan & Israel - 14 days

Middle East Highlights- Israel Jordan & Egypt

Jordan and Egypt on a Budget Tour

The overall experience was good. The downside was the initial and last hotel in Tel Aviv: Sea Net. There was absolutely no effort at customer service by a staff. The breakfast offering was good - except for the male overall server who kept yelling at guests NOT to take silverware because they were provided at the tables (you do not look - was his comment). The front desk staff made no effort to speak with people. I booked an extra night leaving Tel Aviv at $170 extra - I could have gotten better service elsewhere for less. This is not a hotel. This place is a dump of people who do not care for their guests and who treat their guests with contempt.

Pyramids, Petra, Promised Land - 19 Days

First of all, I don’t leave reviews however compelled to do so because too many people have a misconception about Egypt. This place was beyond amazing and the tour company that took us about was well organized and the Tour Guide, Momo, is a gem. This trip, this country, these excursions, the history and the people are welcoming (though admitting the market vendors are a hassle), but overall do not be afraid to visit this place, by far exceed all my expectations from every which way. I would recommend “On the Go tours” and see if you can catch Momo as your tour guide.

Best of Israel, Jordan and Egypt 12 Day Tour Package

10 Day Highlights of Israel, Jordan, and Egypt Tour Package

Pyramids, Petra, Promised Land with Cruise - 19 days

One of the best tour groups I have ever booked. I would highly recommend them for any future travel.

Land of the Prophets (Classic, Winter, 26 Days)

Land of the Prophets (Small Groups, Winter, 26 Days)

What people love about egypt, jordan and israel tours.

My wife and I went on a 17-day tour of Israel, Jordan, and Egypt. The tour was well orchestrated. All the details of getting into and out of countries were handled professionally and with little cause of concern to us. Hand-offs between countries went well. We were guided by knowledgable people who had our best interests at heart (with possibly one exception).The only real complaint I have is that TourRadar turned out to be more of a facilitator than a tour agency with its own guides. I was confused when we got to Israel and found that neither TourRadar nor Click Tours (which answered my online questions) was the agency actually leading the tours. Not knowing that we would be connecting with Consolidated Tour Operators (CTO) led to some initial confusion in the Tel Aviv airport. Expecting to be linked up with Click Tours and knowing nothing about CTO, we missed connecting with the airport facilitator in Tel Aviv for nearly an hour while each of tried to find the other. If I had been told to look for a CTO representative, our stressful introduction to the tour would have gone much more smoothly. In Israel and Jordan, CTO handled our tour. In Egypt, the agency was Sylvia. I had expected to be part of a group that held together for the entire 17 days, but that wasn't the case. Groups formed and disbanded based on what individuals planned to visit. In Israel there were 11 of us, and we bonded quickly. In Jordan I was surprised that our group dwindled to five. And in Egypt there was only my wife and me. That left us vulnerable in Egypt to the care of our guide, who, because there was just the two of us, managed to fleece us of $150. I would never have signed up with TourRadar if I had understood that my wife and I would be left alone at one point without the safety of a group and unprepared to deal with a guide we didn't fully trust.

What a great trip every thing went brilliant, thank you

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Israel, Jordan & Egypt: Petra to the Pyramids

4.2 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

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Be wowed by world wonders and a religious epicenter.

The Middle East is a global crossroads where events that shaped holy scriptures took place and stories of King Tut come to life. Discover the history behind Jerusalem and Petra before figuring out once and for all how the Egyptians built the Pyramids of Giza. Then, live like a local by savoring your fair share of falafel and relaxing in the salty waters of the Dead Sea.

Your tour package includes

• 12 nights in handpicked hotels
• 12 breakfasts
• 4 dinners, some with beer or wine
• 13 sightseeing tours

Included highlights

• Jaffa's Old Town
• Western Wall

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Tel Aviv today.

Welcome to Israel! Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at a welcome dinner this evening.

Join your Tour Director for a sightseeing tour of Tel Aviv, a modern metropolis located on the Mediterranean Sea.

• Walk through the Old Town of Jaffa
• Discover the UNESCO-listed White City, named for its 4,000 buildings built in the Bauhaus and International styles
• Take in Bauhaus architecture at Tel Aviv’s Rabin Square, Independence Hall, and Rothschild Boulevard

Spend a free afternoon in Tel Aviv or add an excursion.

Food of Tel Aviv Walking Tour

From $95 per person

Make your way to Jerusalem and explore the sites of one of the world’s holiest cities with your Tour Director.

• Visit the Israel Museum, where you will get a chance to see the Dead Sea Scrolls
• Spend time at Yad Vashem, the Holocaust History Museum, which is a world leader in Holocaust education, commemoration, and research

After an included lunch, enjoy a free afternoon in Jerusalem or add an excursion.

Bethlehem & the Church of the Nativity

From $85 per person

Delve deeper into Jerusalem’s holy landmarks and cultural quarters alongside your Tour Director today.

• Soak in panoramic views of the city from the Mount of Olives
• See the Church of All Nations and enter the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus was arrested before his crucifixion
• Venture into the Muslim, Christian, Armenian, and Jewish quarters
• Pay a visit to the Western Wall, also known as the “Wailing Wall”
• Enter the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Walk through the city’s bazaar as you stroll along Via Dolorosa
• Head to Mount Zion to view King David’s Tomb and the Upper Room, where Jesus held the Last Supper

Enjoy a free day in Jerusalem or add an excursion.

Masada, the Dead Sea & Kfar Hanokdim Bedouin Camp

From $185 per person

Cross into the Kingdom of Jordan and meet up with your Jordanian Tour Director. Together, you’ll visit Jerash where you’ll enjoy an included lunch, then set off to explore some of the world’s largest and best-preserved Roman ruins.

Then, continue on to Amman and enjoy a free evening in the city.

Join a local guide for a sightseeing tour of Amman, Jordan’s capital city.

• Explore the ruins of the citadel and Roman theater
• Step inside the King Abdullah Mosque, a beautiful landmark dedicated to Jordan’s first king and houses some of his personal items
• Walk through the Old City

Please note: Travelers are required to remove shoes when entering the King Abdullah Mosque. Women must cover their hair, arms, and legs. Men must cover their legs.

Travel to Aqaba, a coastal city located on the Red Sea.

Drive to Wadi Rum, known as the Valley of the Moon. Hop inside a Jeep to marvel at the region’s landscapes and petroglyphs during a desert safari led by a Bedouin guide.

Travel to the city of Petra, which was carved into the red rocks of Mount Hor, and embark on a guided tour.

• Learn about Petra’s unique architecture, one of the reasons it was named to the list of modern world wonders
• Walk through the UNESCO World Heritage Site to the famous Al-Khazneh temple
• See the intricately carved pillars and columns that make up the Palace Tomb
• Stroll through the winding gorge known as the Siq

Please note: In order to enter Petra, travelers should be able to walk two miles round-trip in hot weather over uneven terrain. Other modes of transportation may be available for you to book on arrival at an additional cost.

Later, travel to the Jordanian side of the Dead Sea and sit down for an included dinner.

Enjoy a free morning to relax in the salty waters of the Dead Sea. Then, fly to Cairo, Egypt. You’ll meet up with a professional Egyptologist, who’s also your Tour Director, and sit down for a late included dinner this evening.

Join your Egyptologist on a guided tour of Giza.

• Uncover the Pyramids of Giza, the only Wonder of the Ancient World to have survived the modern era
• Visit the enigmatic Great Sphinx, the largest monolith statue in the world
• Enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant
• Enter the Grand Egyptian Museum, the world’s largest museum, and explore the vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts alongside your Egyptologist

Please note: If the Grand Egyptian Museum is not yet open to the public, a visit to the Egyptian Antiquities Museum will take its place.

Explore the capital city of Cairo on a sightseeing tour led by your Egyptologist.

• View a number of the city’s 500 mosques, which display some of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in the world
• Visit the citadel that was built in the 12th century by mighty Salah el-Din and originally used as a fortress before it became the residence of the Sultans until 1850
• Stop at the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque

Spend the afternoon in the oldest part of Cairo as you explore the labyrinth like alleys, ancient churches, and ornate mosques as you learn more about Egypt’s history.

• Enter the Hanging Church, one of the oldest churches dating back to the 3rd century
• Step inside the Ben Ezra Synagogue and view its ornate Turkish style interior that is a place of pilgrimage for North African Jews

Celebrate your trip with your fellow travelers at tonight’s farewell dinner.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home or continue on to visit Luxor and further explore Cairo.

Fly to Luxor and set off on a guided tour with your Egyptologist.

• View the painstakingly excavated Temples of Karnak and Luxor, once connected by an avenue of sphinxes
• Walk past symbolic statues, view towering pillars, and see ancient hieroglyphics as you explore the temples

Spend the day touring the Nile’s West Bank with your Egyptologist as your guide.

• Explore the Valley of the Kings, a series of tombs hidden in the Theban hills
• Enter King Tut’s tomb, famous for the ancient Egyptian treasures found inside the complex tomb

Spend a free evening in Luxor or add an excursion.

Nile River Felucca Ride & Dinner

Fly back to Cairo and celebrate your trip at an included farewell dinner this evening.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.2 out of 5

5 out of 5 stars

So happy to have taken this tour. It is a once in a lifetime adventure. The other travelers I met only enhanced the overall experience. I have signed up for two more tours!

4 out of 5 stars

This was the first guided tour I have taken. I did like the fact that I didn't have to do any of the planning (flights , hotels, excursion, ground travel). I just packed my bags, and even that was easy with tips from EF (but I did do my research). The trip was amazing (for some of us, a once in a l...

A friend and I went to Israel the day before our tour started. Unfortunately, that was the day the war broke out in Israel. EF Go Ahead tours was a true life saver! Although no one else from the tour had arrived, they were there with me by phone and kept me informed every step of the way. They made...

We are so glad to hear that you felt supported dur...

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This elegant hotel is located in the Neve Tzedek neighborhood. Guests enjoy a pool, fitness center, and Wi-Fi. Nearby, you'll find beaches along the M...

This elegant hotel is located in Jerusalem, Israel. Guests enjoy kosher breakfasts, on-site café, and gastronomic restaurant. Nearby you’ll find the B...

This massive tower hotel is located in Amman's new downtown area. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, state of the art cocktail bar, and spacious rooms wit...

This trendy hotel is located in the business district of Aqaba, Jordan. Guests enjoy the infinity pool, rooftop lounge overlooking the Red Sea, and fi...

This luxurious hotel is located on the Jordanian side of the Dead Sea. Guests enjoy an outdoor pool, fitness center, and restaurant options. Nearby, y...

This stylish hotel is located in the Heliopolis district of Cairo. Guests enjoy the rooftop pool, health club, and fitness center. Nearby you'll find ...

This modern hotel is located on the Nile River in Luxor, Egypt. Guests enjoy an outdoor pool, restaurant options, and a fitness center. Nearby, you’ll...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• This tour visits Israel, Jordan, and Egypt. In order to enter these countries, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least two blank passport pages for entry stamps.
• There is no visa required for U.S. and Canadian citizens to enter Israel.
• A group visa for entry into Jordan will be provided for all travelers whose flights have been arranged through Go Ahead Tours, as well as for travelers who book their own flights and provide Go Ahead Tours with their full passport and flight details.
• U.S. and Canadian passport holders must obtain a visa in order to enter Egypt. U.S. citizens can purchase your visa at the airport upon arrival for $25. The entry authorities require exact change in crisp, new bills. You can also purchase your visa in advance by using a visa provider, such as our partner VisaCentral . Additionally, you can opt to purchase an electronic visa on the Egyptian Electronic Visa Portal website (Please note: Canadian citizens may only obtain a visa directly from the Egyptian Embassy or consulate). Passport control officers at ports of entry can verify your e-visa in their systems. However, we advise keeping either a digital or hard copy of your e-visa in case of any system failures.
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code IJE.
• You will walk for at least 3 hours daily across uneven terrain, including paved roads, cobblestone streets, and dirt paths, with some steep hills.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
• You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times.
• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• Your Tour Director, who’s also an Egyptologist, will be with you throughout the duration of your Egypt tour. There will also be additional staff working alongside your Tour Director to confirm logistics, as well as assist with transfers and on-tour flights. Having these staffers, who are solely focused on ensuring all on-tour logistics go smoothly, allows your Tour Director to dedicate even more one-on-one time to teaching your group about Egyptian history and culture. While it’s customary to tip your Tour Director, you don’t need to tip these additional staff members. 
• You will have a different Tour Director in each country on this tour.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Tel Aviv and depart from Cairo. A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
• A flight from Amman to Cairo is included in the price of your tour. The tour extension also includes a roundtrip flight between Luxor to Cairo.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• A sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended for outdoor activities.
• A small bottle of hand sanitizer may be helpful when other facilities are not readily available while on the road.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches, temples, mosques, or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.
• Please be sure to take proper care with sun exposure, as the sun can be especially strong in some of the areas you are visiting.
• Drink bottled water only while in Egypt. Refrain from drinking tap water, including when brushing your teeth.
• Bring a small first aid kit, including antacids, antidiarrhea medication, motion sickness medication, and any prescription medications in your carry-on bag.
• In Egypt, avoid eating fresh fruits and vegetables unless they are cooked or washed in clean water and peeled.
• Public restrooms in Egypt can be quite bare. We suggest carrying bathroom tissue and hand sanitizer with you.
• Depending on season and weather patterns, air pollution in Cairo may be problematic for travelers with a history of respiratory problems. Based on your health history, please discuss any precautions with your healthcare provider prior to departure.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Certain over-the-counter and prescription medications may be banned in one or all of the countries on this tour. Importing these drugs can carry severe consequences, including imprisonment. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to departure to ensure that any drugs you may want to bring with you are legal in all countries you will visit.
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
• Israeli food is invariably fresh and very carefully prepared. A typical breakfast may consist of sourdough bread with sheep’s-milk cheese and olives, as well as jam or honey. You’ll find everything from Kosher meals to dishes with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences, as well as the international choices available in any major city. On the coast, fish is an excellent choice.
• Jordanian cuisine resembles that of the rest of the Middle East. Olives, hummus, sesame seeds, and herbs are typical in many meals. Falafel is the main street food and many meals are served with rice. Hummus and salad are also popular and available at many restaurants. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to sip mint tea or Turkish coffee.
• Egyptian cuisine uses the bountiful harvests of the Nile Valley—corn, eggplant, zucchini, onions, tomatoes, cabbage, chickpeas, and citrus fruits are popular in many dishes. Don’t miss out on Egyptian interpretations of typical Mediterranean staples like baba ghanoush, falafel, and stuffed grape leaves. Tea is the national drink and is offered at breakfast, after lunch, and in most social situations.
• Israel operates on 220 volts and historically uses a Type H plug, with three flat pins. As the Type H plug is being phased out, you will mostly encounter a new socket that fits both a newer, round-pinned version of the Type H plug as well as the European standard Type C plug with two round pins.
• Jordan operates on 220 volts and uses Type C or G plugs with two round pins or three flat pins, respectively.
• Egypt operates on 220 volts and uses Types C or F plugs with two round pins.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• The strength of the air conditioning in Middle Eastern hotels is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. When air conditioning is available, it is usually regulated seasonally and controlled centrally by the hotel.
• Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Israel and Jordan are two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is seven hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• Egypt is one hour ahead of GMT, which is six hours ahead of ET.
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 7pm in Israel and Jordan, and 6pm in Egypt.
• You will use the Israeli new shekel in Israel, the Jordanian dinar in Jordan, and the Egyptian pound in Egypt.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• You may find it useful to have a supply of U.S. currency in small denominations when bargaining for everything from taxi rides to souvenirs.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director, $1USD per person per day for the bus helper, and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• In Egypt, tipping is an important part of the local culture and you will be expected to tip for services including, but not limited to, taking photos in some areas or seeing additional exhibits. Travelers should carry small bills (in USD) for this purpose.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour.
• Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
• Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
• Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.
• As dictated by Egyptian Tourism Police, all foreign groups must be accompanied by an armed guard and/ or convoy.
• Be aware of your surroundings, as pickpockets are active at most tourist sites. We recommend leaving your passport in the hotel safe, and concealing credit cards and cash in a money belt or a hidden pouch.
• Bring photocopies of your passport, credit cards, and other important documents. Keep them separate from the originals.

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• Middle East

17 Day Egypt, Jordan & Israel Tour Pyramids, Petra & The Promised Land TOURCODE: EG10

Duration: 17 Days

Activity Level: 2

When To Go: Feb, Oct

Countries Visited: 3

Arrive In / Depart From: Cairo / Tel Aviv

Max Group Size: 18

Tour Style: Cultural

Price From:

Discover the country's true culture with the help of experienced local guides.

• Small group sizes to help escape the beaten path.
• All-inclusive with top-rated restaurants and hotels.

This Egypt, Jordan and Israel tour is an exciting addition to our Middle Eastern roster of multi-country programs.

Previously, our only tour including Egypt, Jordan & Israel (JO9) was a big 29-day odyssey - an amazing trip for sure - but those with less time can still hit the big "must-sees" on this very tidy and efficient 17-day journey-of-a-lifetime.

Prices below are per person , twin-sharing costs in Canadian Dollars (CAD) . Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here .

Select a date below to reserve your spot:

The above prices are subject to an additional $176 for taxes/fees levied on flights that occur as part of the tour. The internal airfares ARE included (any exceptions are listed in red below), but we list the taxes separately on your invoice as they are beyond our control and can change at any time.

Optional Single Supplement: $1560 CAD (number of singles limited). This tour may require a mandatory single supplement charge of $780 if you join our share program and we are unable to pair you.

Day 1 Arrive in Cairo Today we arrive in Cairo. Al-Qahira, literally "The Vanquisher" or "The Conqueror", is the capital of Egypt and the second largest city in the Muslim World, the Arab world and Africa and the 17th largest metropolitan area in the world. Nicknamed "The City of a Thousand Minarets" for its preponderance of Islamic architecture, Cairo has long been a centre of the region's political and cultural life. Overnight in Cairo. Included Meal(s): Dinner

Day 2 Cairo: Great Pyramids & the Sphinx - Grand Egyptian Museum This morning we kick off our comprehensive sightseeing program with some of the most iconic of Egyptian monuments: The Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. Impressive in their grandeur, the pyramids are estimated to have been constructed over a period of 20 years using more than 100,000 labourers each year. The Great Pyramid of Cheops, constructed from over two million stone blocks, is 135m (443 feet) high! You may enter one of the pyramids through a long, narrow passageway and explore the deep inner chambers (OPTIONAL - extra fee applicable). Later we visit the Sphinx. This feline-human was named by the Greeks because it resembled the mythical winged monster with a woman's head and lion's body. Legend has it that this "Sphinx" proposed a riddle to the Thebans and killed all who could not guess the correct answer! The Sphinx was carved from one solid piece of limestone and measures 50m (164 feet) in length and 22m (72 feet) in height. We then continue to the Great Egyptian Museum (GEM), where we can break for lunch at your choice of one of several on-site restaurants/cafes.* After our break, our visit of the museum begins with a 45-minute guided tour, with a "sneak peek" into this vast facility prior to the official opening of all of the galleries. As part of our tour, we will also learn about the history of the museum itself, including answers to the inevitable question: “why has it taken 20 years to build?” We will also learn of how the inspiration of ancient Egypt is reflected in the museum’s design and the various components that make up the museum. We’ll also receive an explanation of one of the main themes that repeats throughout GEM -- “Kingship and Eternity” -- and witness how this is reflected in the monuments accessible to us on today’s visit, namely: The Hanging Obelisk, the Colossal Statue of King Ramesses II, the ten Statues of King Senusret I (distance view), the Grand Staircase (distance view), double statues of Ptolemaic King and Queen, the Victory Column of King Merenptah, and the statue of the god Hapy, and the Statue of King Ramesses II. Our visit will culminate with the ground-breaking "Tutankhamun - The Immersive Exhibition," which takes us on a mythical journey to the mesmerizing world of Ancient Egypt. Through state-of-the-art digital projections, you will have the unparalleled opportunity to step into the astonishing life of the legendary Golden King via an awe-inspiring audiovisual adventure that spans an astonishing 3,400 years of history. After our visit we return to our hotel for dinner and overnight. * PLEASE NOTE that the above day description refers specifically to our how time in Cairo will be spent for our tours that occur in February 2024. After this time, as conditions warrant, this day will be adjusted to reflect our plans from Fall/Winter of 2024/25, when the GEM is expected to be fully-open to visitors. Overnight in Cairo. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 3 Cairo: Archaeological Museum & Islamic Cairo This morning we visit the famous Museum of Egyptian Antiquities,* where enjoy a guided tour of some of Egypt's most beloved treasures. Among the 100,000 pieces housed on the museum's two floors is the famous exhibit of Tutankhamun whose tomb was discovered by Howard Carter in 1922. The tomb and treasures of this young Pharaoh, modest by Pharaonic Egyptian standards, is perhaps the best preserved of the discovered tombs. We also see archaeological relics from the Old Kingdom, Middle Kingdom, New Kingdom and Greco-Roman periods. We also allow some time for you to explore the treasures on your own. We then proceed to the Citadel, begun by Saladin in the 12th century. Today the Citadel's buildings are mainly from the Ottoman period, and are truly grand. From the Citadel, actually a complex of three mosques and four museums, we enjoy an amazing view of Cairo spread beneath the hilltop. Here we will see the fabulous Mosque of Mohammed Ali, also known as the "Alabaster Mosque." * Please note that the above description is likely to be accurate for our tours scheduled for early 2024, when it is expected that the King Tut exhibition will still be housed at this site (rather than at the GEM). It remains unclear as to exactly what exhibits will be moved to GEM and when, but we expect that this museum will continue to function even after GEM is fully opened. Once this situation becomes clearer we will update this day's description. Overnight in Cairo. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4 Cairo - Fly to Abu Simbel & Aswan Early this morning we fly to Abu Simbel (with a stop in Aswan)* and the imposing rock temples of Rameses II and his queen, Nefertari. We have a guided tour of this site, including the interior of the colossal temples. The Temple of Rameses II, with its immense statues of the Pharaoh seated on his throne, is one of the classic images of the power of the Pharaohs. Inside the temple you will see well-preserved wall decorations and several murals. There is a wonderful relief of Rameses presenting captives to various gods, including himself! We also gain insight into the reconstruction process by visiting the interior of the artificial mountain. We then fly to Aswan and check in to our hotel. Depending on timing, your Tour Leader may suggest accomplishing some of our Aswan area sightseeing this afternoon. * Occasionally due to availability problems or flight cancellations, we may accomplish the journey to/from Abu Simbel by road/bus. Overnight in Aswan. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 5 Aswan: St. Simeon Monastery & Felucca Sail Adventure This morning we will take a private boat across the River Nile to the west bank. From here we travel by camel across the sandy desert to the Christian Monastery of St Simeon. Before we begin this easy trek our Tour Leader and camel trainer will teach you the technique of riding a camel. This is a journey that can be undertaken by anyone at any age (one rider per camel). Our trek is about 45 minutes to the monastery, and then 15 minutes back to the riverbank. Those who prefer not to ride can travel by open truck to the monastery and meet up with the group there. Dating from the 6th century, and in use until the 13th century, the Monastery of St Simeon is one of the best-preserved Christian sites in Egypt. Inside we will see the chapel, living quarters, kitchen and dining areas, wine press, bake area and storerooms. On our tour we will also see the remains of some Coptic frescoes -- depictions of Christ and saints as well as many geometric patterns. We then return to the banks of the Nile and re-board our boat and ride among the islands dotting the Nile. Up the hill, above the river, is the Mausoleum of the Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the Ismailis, a Shi'ite sect based principally in India but with followers around the world. The tomb is an elegant pink granite structure of late 1950 origin. The main island in the middle of the Nile is called Elephantine Island because many of the rocks look like elephants bathing in the Nile. On the west side of the river is the beautiful Kitchener's Island, where we will have time to stroll through the rich botanical gardens. Later this afternoon we have a leisurely sail on a felucca, a traditional sailing vessel used for centuries for carrying goods and passengers along the Nile. Later this afternoon we will attend the Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple. The temple is situated on an island, and so we enjoy a short boat journey to get to the site. It is a good idea to have a small flashlight with you. Overnight in Aswan. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 6 Aswan to Luxor via Kom Ombo, Edfu & Esna This morning we say farewell to Aswan and travel by road to the Temple of Kom Ombo. In ancient times, Kom Ombo was strategically important as a trading town on the caravan route from Nubia to Cairo. Kom Ombo, actually two temples in one, is dedicated dually to Haroeris (Horus) and Sobek, respectively the god of the sky and the crocodile-headed god. Here we are able to see the remains of a mummified crocodile. Crocodiles no longer exist in the Egyptian part of the River Nile, but in Pharaonic times they lived here in great numbers and were worshipped as gods! From Kom Ombo we travel to the site of Edfu. As the largest and most completely preserved Pharaonic temple, albeit Greek-built, Edfu is dedicated to the god Horus. Construction of this temple began under Ptolemy III Euergetes I in 237 BC. We will allow time to explore this massive and impressive site, enclosed by walls and flanked by two large pylon gateways. Here we will also be able to see a Nilometer -- an ancient technique of measuring the Nile's water fluctuations and setting the level of taxes Before arriving in Luxor we will make a short visit to the Temple Of Esna. This temple is located on the west bank of the Nile in the ancient city of Senat - called Latopolis by the Greeks. It was "the city of the fish" where the Nile perch fish was worshipped as divine. The temple, which was buried beneath debris for many centuries, is located in the center of the town close to the Nile. The temple is dedicated to the ram-headed god Khnum, the god of creation. Tuthmosis III laid the foundations of the Temple in the 18th Dynasty, but Ptolemaic and Roman Emperors completed it between 40 to 250 A.D., and their names are recorded all over the temple walls. Overnight in Luxor. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 7 Valley of the Kings & Queens This morning we explore some of the most incredible sites in the country. We will visit the Valley of the Kings, where you will have the chance to explore three tombs of the ancient Pharaohs. We will then visit the nearby Valley of the Queens as well as the recently renovated mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Hatshepsut was the second pharaoh of the eighteenth dynasty of Ancient Egypt. Our tour also includes a visit to the huge Colossi of Memnon, which is all that remain of the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III. Overnight in Luxor. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 8 Luxor: Karnak/Luxor Temples This morning we visit one of the most fantastic archaeological sites in the world: Karnak Temple. Karnak was built, added to, dismantled, restored, enlarged and decorated during its colourful history of over 1,500 years. At certain points in Egyptian history, this temple was the most important in all of Egypt. When we arrive at the temple you will be awed by the grandeur of the tremendous pylon gateway and the Avenue of 1,000 Sphinxes that originally ran all the way to the Nile and Luxor Temple! We then proceed to Luxor Temple. The temple was dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Chons and was built during the New Kingdom, the focus of the annual Opet Festival, in which a cult statue of Amun was paraded down the Nile from nearby Karnak Temple to stay there for a while, with his consort Mut, in a celebration of fertility. Luxor temple is considered one of the largest ancient Egyptian temple complexes situated on the eastern bank of the river Nile. At the entrance is a huge tower built by King Ramses II. Overnight in Luxor. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 9 Luxor, Egypt - Amman, Jordan Today we fly to Amman, Jordan. Amman, the modern and ancient capital of Jordan, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, where the city's modern buildings blend with the remnants of ancient civilizations. Overnight in Amman. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 10 Amman: Jerash & Amman City Tour Today we have a look at modern central Amman, visiting the Archaeological Museum, and the not-so-modern Roman Amphitheatre and the ruins of the Temple of Hercules. We then leave Amman by bus for a tour of the extensive Roman site of Jerash. In the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, Jerash was a wealthy city and is today considered one of the most important and best preserved of all Roman sites. We visit the famous elliptical forum, the beautiful amphitheatre with its superb natural acoustics, and the site of the huge Temple of Artemis. We will stop for our evening meal en route back to our hotel. This allows us to use our bus transport for this purpose and make for an early-ish arrival back to to the hotel after a full day. Overnight in Amman. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 11 Amman - Madaba - Mt Nebo - Shobak - Petra This morning we travel to Madaba, a small town famous for its magnificent mosaic floors. A unique mosaic covers the floor of St. George's church and consists of a huge map of the Holy Land as it appeared in the 6th century AD. Driving to the edge of the Jordan Valley we reach Mount Nebo from where Moses and the Children of Israel first saw the Promised Land. On a clear day you can look down to see the Dead Sea and the River Jordan. On the other side of the valley is the city of Jerusalem. Here we see a huge mosaic of hunting scenes covers the floor of a ruined Byzantine church. We leave Mt Nebo and travel south via the King's Highway. Along this route, castles and towns were positioned a one day's travel distance apart. Later we visit Shobak Castle, built by the Crusaders in 1115 and sacked by Muslim forces under Saladin in 1189. We finish our full day at Petra. Overnight in Petra. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 12 Petra: Site Tour Petra was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom from the fourth century BC to the 2nd century AD. From the 12th century until its rediscovery in 1812, Petra was lost to the world -- a closely guarded secret of the local tribes. Today the 'rose red city half as old as time' is probably the most impressive archaeological site in the Middle East, rivaling the temples and pyramids of Egypt in grandeur. This morning, on our way into the hidden valley of Petra, we will see the Obelisk Tomb and the irrigation system that carried water from a dam throughout the desert city. Access to the monuments of Petra is through a narrow gorge in the towering rocks called the 'Siq'. As we emerge from the 'Siq' you stand in awe in front of the 'Treasury' (El Kazneh), a graceful structure carved from the living rock. After pausing to admire the elegant columns and carvings we carry on into the valley where elaborate tombs are carved into the multi-coloured walls. Everywhere the sandstone swirls and twists in shades of red, orange, yellow, pink and white. Next we will see the Roman amphitheatre, carved directly out of the mountain, with space for over 3,000 spectators. Further on in the main valley of Petra, are the Royal Tombs including the Palace Tomb and the Silk Tomb. We visit the temple of the Nabataeans' main god, Dushara, and we also see the 'Temple of the Winged Lion'. Our formal guided tour of the site terminates with a visit to the Petra Nabataean Museum. At this point, you may explore further on your own, or return to our hotel to relax and / or shop. You may also take a strenuous walk up a narrow pass to see the magnificent 'Monastery' building, El Deir. The views of Petra and the surrounding area are expansive. The walk is steep and involves approximately 750 steps carved into the rock and will take APPROXIMATELY one hour up (30 minutes down). NOTE: Access to Petra is by means of footpath only. The main sites occur near ground that is level and well-worn, though the overall site is huge. Our pace is leisurely with frequent breaks; however, to fully experience Petra you must be prepared for a considerable amount of walking and little shade. Overnight at Petra. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 13 Petra, Jordan - Masada, Israel - Jerusalem This morning we travel along the Dead Sea Highway (please note that this highway has been damaged by flooding and it is unclear when it will re-open, so this means that we may not see the Dead Sea until we reach Israel). We continue to Allenby where we cross the River Jordan/border into Israel. Once across the border we'll divert to the incredible site of Masada. This great flat-topped mountain and natural fortress was once held by a small band of Jewish zealots for three years despite the force of Roman armies. On this site 1,000 people committed mass suicide rather than be enslaved. Flavirus Josephus said, "Who decided a long time ago, brave soldiers that we are, not to be slaves of the Romans or of any person other than God; for he alone is the true and just master of men." We enjoy an introductory video before proceeding to the top of the mountain by cable car. After our formal guided tour, you will have time for some independent exploration. From Masada we travel northward to the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve. After a short walk we reach Wadi David (David's Spring), a waterfall hidden in an oasis of luxuriant green vegetation that hangs clustered in a canyon wall. We continue our journey toward Jerusalem. On the northwest shore of the Dead Sea we encounter the settlement of Qumran where we have a stop for lunch (today we include lunch instead of dinner). In 1947 it was here that two shepherd boys made one of the most significant discovery in religious history, the Dead Sea Scrolls (written texts of the Old Testament) hidden in the caves. The people who wrote them are believed to have been the Essenes who lived here until AD 68. Later in the day we arrive in Jerusalem, the City of David. Overnight in Jerusalem (dinner on your own this evening). Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch

Day 14 Jerusalem: City Tour Old and new merge seamlessly in Jerusalem. You may hear the Muslim call to prayer competing with the clanging of bells from Christian churches and the prayers of Jews praying before the Western Wall. Everywhere you turn you'll see reminders of the three religions -- Islam, Judaism and Christianity -- that have shaped this part of the world. We have a morning visit to the Temple Mount, one of the glories of Islamic Jerusalem, where you will view the Dome of the Rock. We then enter through the Jewish Quarter to witness the Herodian Mansions, a lavish palace in antiquity and built formerly of white marble, followed by a visit to the most important site in Judaism, the Western Wall. Our tour also takes us by way of the Knesset, Israel's parliament, and the President's House. Overnight in Jerusalem. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 15 Jerusalem & Bethlehem - Tel Aviv This morning we depart for Bethlehem,* where we visit the Church of the Nativity, the birthplace of Jesus. Built like a citadel over the cave where it is believed Jesus was born, the original 4th century church commissioned by Constantine was altered in AD 530 by Emperor Justinian. It was later captured by the Crusaders and then came under the jurisdiction of Saladin and then the Mamluks. Back in Jerusalem, we will see the Old City from the vantage point of the Mount of Olives and then enter the old city and visit the Christian sites. Following the last steps of Christ along Via Dolorosa, we approach Calvary and the most sacred site in Christendom, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Most Christians venerate this site as the location of the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. We also visit the Garden of Gethsemane, a strikingly beautiful garden, located at the foot of the Mount of Olives. A visit here is a highlight of any trip to Jerusalem’s Christian sites; steeped in biblical history, the Garden of Gethsemane is most famously known as the place where Jesus went with his disciples to pray after the Last Supper on the eve of his crucifixion. * NOTE: Due to security concerns/procedures that change frequently, Bethlehem exists in our program on a provisional and tentative basis only. In the event that a visit to the West Bank is not appropriate by departure time, we may remain in Jerusalem and expand our sightseeing there with a visit to the Israel Museum to see the Dead Sea scrolls and a model of the second temple. We finish our day in Tel Aviv where we overnight. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 16 Tel Aviv: City Touring Today we have a tour of vibrant Tel Aviv, a modern city with a unique mix of European and Middle Eastern influences. We'll visit the Ayalon Institute, now a museum, and once a secret ammunition factory disguised as part of a kibbutz to fool the British back in the 1940s. Jewish people used the factory in their efforts to fight for the independent state of Israel. Organizers went to extreme measures to build and sustain this secret factory within the kibbutz. Between 1945 and 1948, the Ayalon Institute produced more than 2 million 9mm bullets. We see the Independence Hall (possibly closed for renovations) and the colourful Carmel Market before we head off to the Old Port City of Jaffa (Yaffo), an ancient and beautiful city located in the south of Tel-Aviv. Jaffa claims over 4,000 years of history and is the place where the prophet Jonas was swallowed by the whale, and the Rock of Andromeda can be seen jutting from the water. The Turks, Napoleon and the British also established their rule of the region through control of this city. We have a walking tour of the old city of Jaffa, a major attraction with winding alleys full of cafes, restaurants and art galleries. You will have free time for independent exploration before our farewell dinner. Overnight in Tel Aviv. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 17 Departure Departure from Tel Aviv. BON VOYAGE!! Included Meal(s): Breakfast

Inclusions Breakfast and dinner daily. All transport (including internal flights), accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary. Gratuities for drivers, restaurant staff, porters, local guides. Airport transfers for land & air customers and for early arriving/late departing land & air customers who book their extra hotel nights through us.

Exclusions International airfare to/from the tour. Tour Leader gratuities, most lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), international (if applicable) air taxes, and any excursions referenced as 'optional'. Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Optional trip cancellation insurance. Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on shopping, included meals, visas, and locally-paid departure taxes.

Seasonality and Weather This tour is offered in spring and fall when temperatures are the most pleasant. That said, once can still expect heat in some locales, especially in Upper Egypt, and especially during "shoulder" times, ie March/April & early October. At these times, your Tour Leader will do his/her best to structure our activities to take advantage of the more comfortable times of day to head out, which could mean some early starts and possibly a block of leisure time midday. In Israel and some parts of Jordan, spring is green season in some locations, while fall brings the harvest of dates, melons, grapes, and many other local crops. Showers are possible both times but the overall region is arid on average.

Transport and Travel Conditions Local ground transport provided by private air-conditioned motor coach, 12-36 seats depending on ultimate group size. Internal flights via local air carriers. Our rating "Level 2" on this tour refers to its ambitious nature, full days, and plenty of time spent on your feet. Some days involve some early starts as dictated by internal flights as well as some excursions, ie Alexandria & Abu Simbel, for which early departures are necessitated by distance and traffic. We also like to get to Abu Simbel in time for sunrise and before large crowds arrive. Many sites visited are LARGE; surfaces are uneven and sloped, and stairs will factor into our visits. Heat can also be a factor in some locations which can, over time, cause fatigue. This is not an 'easy' tour; if you are unsteady or slow on your feet, rely heavily on a cane or any other mobility aid, or tire easily, we regret that this tour would not be suitable. Though baggage handling is available throughout, you must still be able to fully manage yourself and your things, especially at airports. IF YOU'RE WONDERING why we don't offer a Nile cruise between Aswan and Luxor, we find that by travelling between these two points overland we are able to include more sites (ie Abydos & Dendara) in addition to Kom Ombo and Edfu, where we enjoy private sightseeing instead of having our group combined with other groups on the cruise program. Our independence also allows us to avoid peak periods and crowds at the times that cruise ships generally dock. We know that the notion of a Nile cruise has a special romantic appeal, but we (including our Tour Leaders) have always preferred this alternative. The ships spend most of their time tied up at the docks in Luxor and Aswan and the time actually sailing is rather limited and may occur at night due to the limitations of the transit lock system, which often gets backed up. As cruise programs tend to feature quite a lot of "down time," this option was rarely well-received by past travellers back in the day when we included it. We hope this clarifies!

Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form .

Accommodation Hotels used on tour are well-located, air-conditioned, 3-4-star (maybe the odd 5-star) properties with en-suite bath/toilet. Single rooms are limited in number and are possibly smaller than twins. Porters are generally available (see 'Inclusions'). Click on the "Map & Hotels" tab on this page for more information.

Staff and Support Tour Leader throughout, local drivers, local guides at various locations.

Group Size Maximum 18 plus Tour Leader

Regions visited: Middle East Countries visited: Egypt ; Jordan and Israel

*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.

The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.

Reservation Summary

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Jordan & Egypt: Petra to the Pyramids

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Uniquely Tauck

Experience with Tauck

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – A private tented dinner in the desert in Petra featuring traditional entertainment by sword dancers

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – An after-hours private visit to the Valley of the Kings and King Tutankhamun's tomb

Guided sightseeing to Jerash, Mt. Nebo and Madaba, thousands of years old

Visit to Aswan Dam, spanning the Nile

Tauck Value Includes

A 3-night Nile River cruise aboard Oberoi Zahra with included shore excursions to Egypt's must-see sights

A 4x4 adventure in the lunar landscapes of Wadi Rum

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Experiences of a lifetime

Explore biblical lands untouched by time from atop Mt. Nebo, at sandstone Petra, and in ancient Roman cities surrounding Jordan's Dead Sea shores. Sail down the River Nile on a journey that spans 5,000 years of history in the world's oldest civilization. Visit pyramids, temples and tombs that speak volumes about the lives of Egyptian kings and queens, traveling to places immortal and intriguing. And indulge in modern-day luxuries, enriched by the past, at premier hotels and resorts with views of the iconic sites you've dreamed of seeing.

Explore the awe-inspiring wonders of ancient Jordan and Egypt on this 13-day journey from the Dead Sea to Cairo, including a 3-night cruise on the Nile from Aswan to Luxor aboard a luxury riverboat. Begin in Amman, Jordan, with a visit to the Dead Sea, a popular vacation spot for its spas and historical sites... in Madaba visit St. George Church, famous for its Byzantine art and 6th-century mosaic map... re-discover the "lost" city of Petra, carved out of pink sandstone in a mountain pass at Wadi Musa... Board your luxury riverboat at Aswan for a Nile River odyssey to ancient Egyptian sites, including Abu Simbel, the grand temple built by Ramses II, with towering statues of himself... the Philae Temples, a breathtaking complex of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman temples and monumental statues on Agilika Island... the House of the Crocodile and the Castle of the Falcon at Kom Ombo... the dazzling tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens... the vast necropolis at the Valley of Kings and the tomb of Tutankammen... and the Avenue of Sphinxes at Luxor. Along the way, shore excursions include jeep safaris, a visit to a Bedouin camp, dining at local restaurants, and an Arabic cooking lesson in Amman. Stay three nights at the exclusive Mena House in Giza, your base for exploring the Khufu Pyramid and the Great Sphinx with an expert Egyptologist, as well as treasures of Cairo, including the Hanging Church, the Al Rifai Mosque, the Khan El-Khalili Market, and the new Grand Egyptian Museum.

An Update from Egypt & Jordan

We've added some new photos and videos from a recent trip to Egypt and Jordan with our guests in December. You can view them here along with a message for guests considering traveling to this region from Robin Tauck, co-owner and former President and CEO of Tauck Inc.

4x4 adventure in Wadi Rum

Desert offroad adventure in jordan's wadi rum.

Jordan's Wadi Rum – popularly known as the "Valley of the Moon" – is home to some of the most stunning desert landscapes on Earth. Exploring its beautiful, lunar-like dunes and towering sandstone cliffs by four-wheel-drive vehicle is an absolutely unforgettable experience – and we invite you to do just that… and perhaps even ride a camel… on this thrilling off-road adventure!

The Valley of the Kings

Discovering egypt's valley of the kings.

Nestled in Egypt's Theban hills west of the Nile River, near today's Luxor, stands the Valley of the Kings – where, between the 16th and 11th centuries BC, complexes of tombs were cut out of the rock to house the remains of the Pharaohs and other nobles of Egypt's New Kingdom, and prepare them for the afterlife. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains more than 60 identified tombs and chambers. While many were once filled with treasures, most have been plundered through the ages… with the exception of that of the famous tomb of Tutankhamun, discovered intact in the 1920s, whose artifacts and remains have been removed and preserved. Visiting any of these tombs today is an experience not to be missed.

Abu Simbel – The Temples that Moved

Discover the remarkable temples of abu simbel, one of the most recognizable sites of ancient egypt..

Originally located on the banks of the Nile River for 3,000 years, in an incredible feat of engineering, Abu Simbel was dismantled and rebuilt in the 1960's and relocated on a higher hill to make way for the Aswan High Dam. The complex contains two temples; a large one containing four colossal statues of Ramesses II and a second, smaller temple thought to be dedicated to Queen Nefertari. The entrance way of the larger temple was designed in such a way that on two days of the year, October and February 22, the sun illuminates the inner sanctuary including three statues seated on a bench, one of which is the pharaoh himself.

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Welcome Aboard

• Oberoi Zahra
• Oberoi Philae

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Kempinski hotel ishtar dead sea.

Amman, Jordan

Movenpick Resort Petra

Petra, Jordan

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan

Aswan, Egypt

Nights 7-9 On Board

Tauck Small Ship

Nights 10-12

Marriott Mena House

Cairo, Egypt

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Travel Documents

All guests are required to provide their passport information to us at time of booking.

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Jordan and Egypt. You will need a visa for Jordan and Egypt (both included in tour cost). 

In addition to a valid passport, U.S., U.K. and Australian citizens are also required to have a visa to enter Jordan and Egypt. The Jordanian visa will be issued upon arrival to the airport at no cost. Please note that Tauck will cover the expense of your visa for entry to Egypt, and it will be issued on tour. Please Note: Effective October 1, 2023 Canadian citizens will need to apply for a paper VISA from the nearest Egyptian Embassy or Consulate for entry into Egypt; e-visas will no longer be issued to Canadian citizens. 

If you are citizen of another country traveling internationally, please contact an embassy or consulate of Egypt and of Jordan to determine what travel documentation is required. 

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We strongly recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  90  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by CareFree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $769 per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $600 per person

89-8 days before departure = $1250 per person

7-1 days before departure = $2000 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Besides the checked luggage limitations noted above, you are allowed to bring one piece of carry-on luggage aboard your intra-tour flights, not to exceed a weight of 11 lbs (5 kg),with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 43" (110 cm) due to space restrictions in overhead storage bins aboard the charter flights, motor coaches; larger carry-ons will be stowed in the luggage compartment under the coach.

Carry-on Luggage – General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Throughout the tour, we will provide you with clean and safe drinking water.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Some of the countries visited on this itinerary may require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases in order to enter the country.  These requirements are subject to frequent change as outbreaks occur and subside in different areas, and it is therefore crucial that you obtain the very latest information on entry requirements as you prepare for your journey.

For the most current information, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by clicking here  and the World Health Organization (WHO) by clicking here . You may also wish to visit the web sites for the embassies of the countries you will be visiting.  Besides providing details on vaccination requirements, these sites can also provide information on vaccinations that may be recommended (but aren't required) and other potential health issues for which no vaccines are available.

Any decisions relating to your health, of course, should not be based solely on information provided by a web site.  It is critically important that you consult with your personal physician prior to your journey to obtain any required vaccinations and to review any optional recommendations offered by the CDC or other sources.

Please be sure to discuss your journey with your physician at least four to six weeks in advance of your departure, as certain vaccinations take time to become fully effective.  Also, be certain to ask your physician for proof of any vaccinations you receive, and to pack this proof along with your other travel documents in your carry-on luggage (not in your checked luggage).

Researching and complying with vaccination entry requirements for the countries visited on this itinerary is the responsibility of the traveler and not Tauck. Tauck is therefore not responsible for any expenses incurred or disruptions to travel caused by improper or incomplete vaccinations, or by the failure to provide proof of required vaccinations.

If you do not obtain the necessary vaccinations and proper documentation, you may be denied entry into one or more countries, or temporarily quarantined until the necessary vaccinations are administered, or until proper documentation is provided. 

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Jordan and Egypt: Petra to Pyramids is an active tour. You should be in good health, able to climb into and out of a small boat and walk reasonable distances over unpaved and uneven terrain. Many of our walking excursions are in and around ancient sites and old city quarters.The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Jordan is approximately 90% desert, with an annual rainfall below 8 in (203 mm) and falling as low as 1-2 in (25-50 mm) in some places. Jordan is a very sunny country with average daily sunshine hours ranging from six to seven hours per day in winter and as many as twelve to thirteen hours per day in the summer. Although summer temperatures are high in the desert, the heat is usually moderated by low humidity and a stiff daytime breeze while the nights are cool and pleasant. You should expect hot and dry summers with cool evenings.

Egypt essentially has a hot desert climate. The climate is generally extremely dry all over the country except on the northern Mediterranean coast which receives rainfall in winter. In addition to rarity of rain, extreme heat during summer months is also a general climate feature of Egypt although daytime temperatures are more moderated along the northern coast. The prevailing northwesterly wind from the Mediterranean Sea continuously blows over the northern coast without the interposition of an eventual mountain range and thus, greatly moderates temperatures throughout the year. Because of the effect, average low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C (49.1 °F) in wintertime to 23 °C (73.4 °F) in summertime and average high temperatures vary from 17 °C (62.6 °F) in wintertime to 32 °C (89.6 °F) in summertime. Though temperatures are moderated along the coasts, the situation changes in the interior, which are away from the moderating northerly winds. Thus, in the central and the southern parts, daytime temperatures are hotter, especially in summers where average high temperatures can exceed 40 °C (104 °F) like in Aswan , Luxor , Asyut or Sohag which are located in the deserts of Egypt.

To determine current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov, by clicking here.

What To Pack

Your journey through Israel and Jordan is casual. Comfortable, cotton clothing is suggested. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Please be aware that some of the sights we visit, require both men and women to have their knees and shoulders covered, and in some cases wear long pants. Once on tour, your tour director will advise you on appropriate attire.

For travel December through February, you will need a hat, gloves and warm clothes for our travels in Petra in Jordan. Also at this time, the temperatures in Egypt are still hot, so be sure to pack lightweight clothes for touring in the desert. For travel from March through May and August through December, you will need a jacket or fleece, a light sweater for the air conditioning on the planes and coaches. You might consider a small umbrella, not for rain, but for the sun. At the Sofitel Hotel in the 1902 restaurant, gentlemen are required to wear a jacket and ladies should wear cocktail attire. The hotel does loan jackets to guests.  Sandals are acceptable for ladies to wear, however not for men.

Most importantly, bring comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in. It is important that your shoes have good ankle support, as we visit some ancient sites where paths and stairs may be uneven and unpaved.  Open-toed shoes and flip flops are not recommended for visits to Petra and most of the Egyptian sites due to the sand and the rocky walking conditions.

Jordan and Egypt are primarily Muslim countries, although the freedom of all religions is protected. Muslim women's clothing often covers their arms, legs and hair. Western women are not subject to these customs, but very revealing clothing is never appropriate and conservative dress is advisable for both men and women in the old part of Amman (downtown), and outside the cities. Shorts are rarely worn by either gender, and would be out of place in the downtown Amman area. Topless sunbathing is prohibited and one-piece swimsuits are preferred, although two-piece swimsuits are acceptable at hotel pools.

Valet laundry services are available at all the hotels.

Beyond your normal wardrobe and personal grooming items, we suggest you also bring along:

• Comfortable walking shoes (VERY IMPORTANT)
• Rainwear, such as a raincoat and rain hat, plus a collapsible umbrella
• Short and long-sleeved shirts/tee shirts (for the warmer, summer months. Extra tee shirts are always a good idea). Please make sure you have your shoulders covered for monuments. Jacket for men  and cocktail dress and slacks/dress for women for evening wear
• Long shorts and pants (many of the sights require both men and women to have-shorts that cover their knees and in some cases require you to wear long pants)
• Sweater; lightweight for summer, and medium weight for spring/fall
• Camera, lenses, batteries, chargers and extra memory cards
• Sunscreen and hat
• Small flashlight
• Insect repellent
• Travel alarm clock (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Copies of your prescriptions from your doctor. While it may be possible to refill prescriptions during your journey, the availability of refills cannot be guaranteed. What's more, refilling prescriptions in foreign countries can be difficult and time-consuming.

Please refer to the Necessary Gear website at  www.necessarygear.com  as one option available to you for renting and purchasing apparel, PPEs, and other items appropriate for your journey.

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The Wonders of Israel, Jordan and Egypt Tour 9 Day Tour

9 Days & 8 Nights | Starting on Sundays Experience a whirlwind tour of 3 countries in 9 days & 8 nights. The tour of a lifetime! Contact us for our latest offer!

The New Wonders of Israel, Jordan and Egypt Tour 10 Day Tour with a dinner and show on a Nile Cruise.

10 Days & 9 Nights | Starting on Sundays Experience a whirlwind tour of 3 countries in 10 days . Dinner and show on the Nile cruise. The tour of a lifetime! Contact us for our latest offer!

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How to Plan a Trip to Egypt, Jordan, and Israel in 2024/2025

Egypt, known as the Land of Mystery, emerged from the delta of the Nile River and is famous for its legends of the pharaohs and magnificent pyramids.

Jordan, the Land of Ancient History, presents a remarkable Mars-like landscape that hid lost civilizations, inviting you to explore their depths.

Israel, often referred to as the Land of Milk and Honey, offers an incomparable biblical experience and you can fully immerse yourself in this promised land.

If you're considering a trip to Egypt, Jordan, and Israel but don't know where to begin, the tips and suggestions in this guide should help you have a fulfilling journey.

Content Preview

1. best things to do in egypt, jordan, and israel, 2. visa policies in egypt, jordan, and israel.

• 3. How Many Days to Stay in Egypt, Jordan, and Israel?

4. Best Times (and Worst Times) to Travel to Egypt, Jordan, and Israel

5. how much would it cost in egypt, jordan, and israel, 6. is it safe to travel to egypt, jordan, and israel.

With such abundant tourist resources, it's hard to narrow down the best places to visit and things to do in these three countries.

Below, we recommend the top places to visit and their star attractions according to our clients' experiences and our professional knowledge.

1) Cairo: Ride a Camel to Witness the Great Pyramids in Giza

No trip to Egypt is complete without a visit to Giza.

Since Cairo would be your first stop in Egypt, Giza is the best introduction to Ancient Egypt, located just an hour's drive outside the capital. It has the only remaining man-made marvel of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Unlike the normal tour arrangement, we would first take you to explore some pyramids that were built in earlier times so that you better understand why the Great Pyramid is an absolute must-see for every traveler .

2) Luxor: Step Into the Largest Open-Air Museum

As Egyptians often say, "A visit to Luxor is a must when in Egypt." Also known as the Thebes ruins, Luxor boasts incredible sights ranging from ancient tombs to colossal temple complexes.

The Temple of Luxor is an essential stop during a visit to Luxor. We offer a flexible experience that can be enjoyed both during the day and at night, taking you to marvel at the grand pillars and statues that stand in solemn silence.

Viewing the Valley of the Kings from the air in a hot-air balloon is also highly recommended. Not only is the price competitive (about 100 USD per person), but you can also witness the beautiful sight of the sleepy city of Luxor awakening with the first rays of morning light.

3) Aswan: Relax on a Nile Cruise

The best way to visit the wonders between Luxor and Aswan is by boat.

Cruise along the Nile and avoid the hassle of changing your hotel or arranging daily transportation. Save more of your time to either relax on the ship or immerse yourself in the sights.

What's more, we recommend a dahabiya (with approximately 6–12 cabins) for you, which offers a much more private experience with customized service, letting you and your family enjoy a wonderful cruise in a traditional Nile craft.

Suggested reading: How to Plan a 2-Week Egypt, Jordan, and Israel Trip >>>

4) Petra: Uncover the Secrets Behind the Rose City

We highly recommend that you ride a camel rather than hike on foot to marvel at the majestic Treasury, Al Khazna. This is because you may want to save your strength for the hiking involved in the latter part of a trip to Petra.

During a special event called Petra at Night, the square in front of the Treasury is illuminated by hundreds of candles, which transports you back to ancient times, with the soothing sounds of Arabic songs accompanying you under the starry night sky.

5) The Dead Sea: Enjoy Nature's Ultimate Buoyancy

Due to its high salinity, the Dead Sea offers a unique experience whereby you can effortlessly float on its surface. You can also enjoy renowned skin care treatments with the mineral-rich mud and salts found in the sea.

Since the Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth, it retains heat well, with warm temperatures between November and April averaging 22–29°C (72–84°F), which makes it a great winter escape destination.

6) Wadi Rum: Fly Me to the "Moon"

Wadi Rum is a desert valley in southern Jordan, often referred to as the Valley of the Moon due to its moon-like surface.

Embark on a camel ride to explore this desert and gain insight into the fascinating lives of the Bedouin people. Alternatively, you can choose to camp overnight and witness the magnificent spectacle of the galaxy unfolding before your eyes.

What's more, you can choose to board a hot-air balloon to get a full panorama in the air while bathing in the morning light.

7) Jerusalem: Encounter the Spirit of the Holy City

When you visit the largest city in Israel, the Western Wall is a must-see stop whether you are religious or not.

The Western Wall, also known as the holiest site in the world for Jewish people, holds immense significance. You can feel the sacred atmosphere when you witness people in reverent silence before the Wailing Wall.

For a more immersive experience, we highly recommend exploring the Western Wall Tunnels. Marvel at the stunning ancient architecture and take in the awe-inspiring moments of being in close proximity to the most venerated section of the Western Wall.

8) Tel Aviv-Yafo: Experience the Harmonious Fusion of Two Cities

As the second largest city in Israel, the vibe in this city is harmonious where modernity is intertwined with history.

Roam freely in the city during the daytime. Visit the museum, stroll along the super-long seaside boulevard, and observe modern buildings. Beautiful memories of Israel would be formed in this city that's surrounded by mountains and sea.

At nightfall, you can see this White City transform into a vibrant spectacle with its splendid nightlife and beach parties.

9) Haifa: Discover the Beauty of the Modern Hanging Gardens

Haifa, located on the Mediterranean coast, is the third largest city in Israel. The Baha'i Terraces are an attraction that you shouldn't miss out on.

Built on Mount Carmel, the Vineyard of God, the Baha'i Terraces are inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are filled with flowers, trees, statues, and water fountains.

Additionally, their vertical height is approximately 225 meters (738 feet). You will fully understand the reason why people call this area "the Hanging Gardens" the minute you see them.

When planning your trip to Egypt, Jordan, and Israel, it's important to note that Israel is the only country among the three that offers a visa-free policy for citizens of various countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Before visiting Egypt and Jordan, you have the option to obtain a visa by applying through the embassy or consulate, or by utilizing the official e-visa websites, which only take you a few minutes to fill out their application forms.

>>> Apply for an Egypt e-visa

>>> Apply for a Jordan e-visa

3. How Many Days to Stay in Egypt, Jordan, and Israel

For first-timers, we highly recommend that you spend at least 2 weeks appreciating a spectrum of highlights in these countries.

Here is a customizable 15-day itinerary that may fit your needs:

• Days 1–3: Visit Jerusalem in Israel (including the Western Wall, the Tomb of King David, the Temple Mount...)
• Days 4–6: Visit Amman, Petra, and the Dead Sea in Jordan (including an Amman food tour, hiking in Petra, floating on the Dead Sea...)
• Days 7–15: Visit Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and Hurghada in Egypt (including a 3-night Nile cruise, Hurghada desert safari, Giza camel ride...)

This itinerary aims to enable you to fully enjoy a family holiday covering the main highlights of Egypt, Jordan, and Israel.

In your 3 days in Israel, you can immerse yourself in the religious atmosphere while visiting attractions like the Western Wall and experiencing for yourself the places written in the Holy Bible and the scriptures of Judaism and Islam.

In your 3 days in Jordan, we would like to show you its special scenery in more revealing ways. This could be going through the city alleys to learn about the locals' lives, hiking over the history that was buried 1,000 years ago, and floating at the lowest point on Earth.

In your 8 days in Egypt, we want to offer you more relaxing experiences. Stay on a traditional dahabiya for 3 nights to feel closer to the mysterious Nile, enjoy some watery fun in the Red Sea, and ride into the desert to appreciate a vast world of sand.

If you have a vacation that exceeds 2 weeks or you want to explore these countries more in-depth, you can always extend your journey with many more sights that are on your bucket lists for a more authentic experience. Or you may only have a vacation of around 10 days, check out this article for some ideas:  How to Plan a 10-Day Israel, Jordan, Egypt Itinerary >>>

For an in-depth tour, check out this itinerary for inspiration: 18-Day Egypt, Jordan, and Israel Treasures Discovery Tour .

You can get more details from  How Long to Spend in the Middle East .

Since most sights in Egypt, Jordan, and Israel are open air without air-conditioning, the best weather period is usually seen as the best time. Still, your best time to visit could vary from this depending on your needs.

For the best weather, traveling between November and April is considered the best time. During this period, the weather in Egypt, Jordan, and Israel is warm and pleasant, averaging around 22°C (72°F). Although you may encounter some short-duration rain, it won't be a problem for a well-prepared journey.

For the best prices and fewer crowds, traveling in May, September, and October are the optimum times. These months are considered to be the shoulder season, when you can get a good deal without sacrificing too much of your travel experience as daily temperatures peak at around 30°C (86°F).

The worst time to travel to Egypt, Jordan, and Israel is from June to August due to the heat, which regularly exceeds 37°C (99°F). Most of the historical and cultural sites are open air, but the hotter-than-human temperatures make it challenging to visit them comfortably.

Check out  how to plan a trip to the Middle East >>>

Typically, it will cost you from US$200/250/600 per person per day in Egypt/Jordan/Israel respectively for a private tour based on a group of 2–4 people.

Across these three countries, this averages from US$350 per person per day during your trip.

This cost varies depending on the time of year.

During the peak season from December to January, it would increase by around 20%. To reduce your costs, it's recommended to book your accommodation and flights at least 6 months in advance.

Why not reach out to us at Global Highlights ? We'll help you to create your ideal itinerary based on your interests and requirements, making sure that your journey is smooth and hassle-free and that you don't pay for anything you don't want included.

Overall, Egypt, Jordan, and Israel are safe countries for you to visit.

The governments in these Middle Eastern nations have invested significant resources and made concerted efforts to ensure the security and safety of both tourists and residents. If you remain observant of your surroundings, you will often notice police patrols or guards stationed around tourist sites.

To enhance your safety, it is advisable to avoid visiting any areas mentioned as dangerous on your country's travel advisories website. Additionally, it is recommended to travel with companions and avoid traveling alone.

By following these and other standard precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.

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13-Day Egypt, Jordan and Israel Tours

Get ready to experience the ultimate Middle East tour  with this bespoke 13 days Egypt, Jordan And Israel Tours package. Visit and explore the relics of ancient Egypt and enjoy a luxurious sightseeing cruise down the Nile.  Spend another night in the vibrant Egyptian capital and board a flight to continue your adventure in Jordan.

Visit the best historic and sites of Jordan, including the magnificent rock carved city of Petra. Travel on to Jerusalem in Israel and visit the same places Jesus visited in this ancient land. Thirteen days of fun filled travel all rolled into one amazing Egypt tour package that really is in a class of its own.

NOTE: Tours run every Saturday, Monday and Thursday

Egypt, Jordan and Israel Tours

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Day 1: Arrive at Cairo International Airport for your Tour

When you arrive in Cairo for the start of your Egypt, Jordan and Israel tour we will have a company representative and a driver waiting for you at the airport, regardless of what time your plane lands. They will assist you with your luggage and then drive your hotel in Cairo.

After you have checked in, your tour manager will discuss your itinerary with you and answer any questions you might have. He will also confirm pick up times for your various tours of Egypt, Jordan and Israel, and then you will be left in peace to enjoy the rest of the day as you wish.

Day 2: Giza, Saqqara and Memphis

Enjoy a good breakfast at your hotel, and then at the time which will have been confirmed with you, your guide and driver will arrive at your hotel and then take you to Giza for a visit to the Great Pyramids of Mycerinus, Chefren and Cheops, the Great Sphinx and the Valley Temple.

You will also have the opportunity to visit the Solar Boat which is located near the Pyramid of Cheops. An admission ticket for this small museum is not included in the price of our tour package. Tickets are however available at the site. You can also ask us to include the museum in your itinerary when you book your tour.

After the pyramids, you will be taken for some lunch at a good local restaurant, and then, you’ll travel Saqqara to see the Djoser Step Pyramid. This was the first pyramid ever built in Egypt. Next, you will travel to Memphis, the capital of the Old Kingdom of ancient Egypt. Finally, you will be driven back to your hotel in Cairo.

Meals included: Breakfast + Lunch

Day 3: Cairo Sightseeing Tour and Transfer to Aswan

After breakfast at your hotel, you will check out and then you will be taken to the Egyptian Museum for a tour with your private guide. Among the many exhibits not to be missed here are the treasures and relics from the tomb of King Tutankhamun. These are on display in their own area known as the Treasures Room.

The museum also has a Mummies Room for those who would like to view some real mummies. In order to see inside the Mummies Room, a separate ticket is required. These tickets are available at the museum. Alternatively, you can ask us to include this in your itinerary when you book your tour with us.

After the museum, you will continue on to Coptic Cairo to see the Hanging Church and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. Your last stop of the day will be at the Khan El Khalili Bazaar where you can combine history and shopping at this bustling market which has been operating since the 14th century!

After your day of sightseeing, you will be driven to Cairo International Airport for your flight to Aswan. One of our tour representatives will meet you when you arrive at the airport in Aswan and then you will be transferred to the hotel where you will be staying for the night.

Day 4: Abu Simbel Temple Group Tour

After breakfast and a leisurely morning at your hotel in Aswan, you’ll head out for the 3 1/2 hour drive to Abu Simbel to see the two temples that were carved out of a mountainside during the 13th century BC to commemorate the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II and Queen Nefertari. Actually standing in front of these two temples will be a moment in your life that you will never forget.

After spending some time at the temples, you will then travel back to Aswan and you will be dropped off at your hotel shortly before dinner time.

Day 5: Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor

After breakfast and some free time at your hotel, you’ll check out and you will then be taken to board your 5-Star Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor. Lunch will be served shortly after boarding, and not long after that you will be taken for a sightseeing tour in Aswan.

During your sightseeing tour you will visit the Philae Temple and the Unfinished Obelisk. After your tour you’ll return to the ship in time for a good dinner and tonight you will be sleeping on the water at Aswan

Meals included: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Day 6: Kom Ombo and Edfu

Enjoy breakfast aboard the vessel as you sail to Kom Ombo to visit the Kom Ombo Temple of Sobek and Horus. After visiting this incredibly unique temple, you will return to the boat and it will continue sailing towards Edfu with lunch being served along the way. When you get to Edfu you will be taken to view the Edfu Temple of Horus, the best preserved of its kind. Next, you will sail on to Esna where the ship will then dock for the night. Enjoy afternoon tea, dinner, and another good night’s sleep, this time on the water at Esna.

Day 7: The Valley of the Kings

Today the boat will make an early start and it will head for Luxor. After breakfast, you’ll be taken for a tour on the West Bank. During this tour you will visit the Valley of the Kings, an ancient royal burial ground where 62 ancient Egyptian tombs have been discovered. While some of these tombs are complex structures with multiple chambers, some are far more basic and may only have a single chamber.

While admission for some of the tombs is included in the price of our travel package, separate tickets are required for some tombs, such as the tomb of King Tutankhamun. These tickets are available at the site and must be purchased in person by those who wish to view inside these “special” tombs.

After Valley of Kings, you will continue on your way for a visit the magnificent mortuary Temple of Egypt’s first female Pharaoh, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, built in the 15th century BC. As you begin making your way back to the ship you will also visit the Colossi of Memnon.

Shortly after getting back to the boat, lunch will be served and then you will have the rest of the day to yourself. Enjoy some afternoon tea, a good dinner, and another peaceful night on the water.

Day 8: Luxor and Karnak Temples and Return to Cairo

After breakfast on board, you’ll check-out disembark from the vessel and you be taken to visit both Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple before you travel to Luxor Airport for your flight back to Cairo. As usual, you will be met at the airport and you will be taken to the hotel where you will be staying for the night.

If you are hoping to do something special on your last night in the Land of the Pharaohs, we can highly recommend attending the nightly Sound and Lights Show at the pyramids, and also a Nile River dinner cruise. Neither of these are included in the price of your tour, but we would be happy to make the necessary arrangements on your behalf. Tickets for both of these activities are also widely available through travel agents throughout the city.

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9: Transfer to Amman

At the appropriate time, you will need to check out from your hotel, and then you will be driven to the airport in time for you to board your flight to Amman in Jordan. On arrival in Jordan, you will again be met by one of our tour representatives, and you will be transferred to the hotel where you will be staying for the remainder of your time in Jordan.

Day 10: Jerash and Dead Sea Tour

After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be picked up at the confirmed time, and then travel to Jerash which is home to the best-preserved ancient Roman architecture outside of Italy. After exploring the ruins with a profession English speaking local guide, your tour will continue and you will then travel to the Dead Sea for an afternoon of leisure. Enjoy a spa treatment (optional) with some of the notorious Dead Sea mud and spend some time floating effortlessly on its ultra-salty water before returning to your hotel in the evening.

Day 11: Ancient City of Petra

After breakfast, you will be met at your hotel and then you will travel to Petra where you will enjoy a tour of the legendary Rose Red City of Petra. Also known as the Lost City of Petra, this UNESCO World Heritage Site draws more visitors than any other attraction in Jordan.

This magnificent rock-cut city was established in the 6th century BC by the nomadic Nabateans, who settled down and built the city into a regional center of commerce.

On arrival at the site you will meet up with a specialist English-speaking guide, and then you’ll ride on horseback to the canyon entrance (known as the Siq) which leads to the city. When you reach the Siq you will then continue on foot to get an up-close look at the Treasury, the Street of Facades, the Pharaohs Castle and the Royal Tombs, and more. Afterward you have finished at the site, you will then travel back to Amman, a journey which typically takes about 2.5 hours.

Day 12: Jerusalem, Israel Tours

On day 12 of your Egypt, Jordan and Israel tour, you’ll be picked up from your hotel at 7:00 AM and you will then travel to the Allenby Bridge/King Hussein border crossing into Israel, where you’ll be met by your guide who will drive you to Jerusalem.

Your tour will begin with a visit to the Mount of Olives which provides a commanding view of the city and the surrounding areas, including the Jordan Valley. From there, you’ll continue on with a slow walk to the Garden of Gethesemane and the Church of All Nations.

Next, you will head to the Old City and to visit to the Wailing Wall, and if it is open to visitors at the time, you will also visit the Temple Mount where you can see the world famous Dome of the Rock. Afterwards, you’ll follow the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Jesus was buried. Finally, you will travel back to Amman for your last night in Jordan.

Day 13: Egypt, Jordan and Israel Tours End – Departure

Enjoy one last breakfast at your hotel in Jordan, and then you will be met at your hotel by a tour representative who will take you to the airport. They will assist you with luggage and check-in, and then sadly it will be time for everyone to say goodbye. Board your flight with a million memories, and have a safe and pleasant trip back home.

Inclusions – What is included in our 13 days of Egypt, Jordan and Israel travel package:

• Meet and greet service at all arrival and departure points
• Customer service assistance throughout your stay
• All transfers in private air-conditioned vehicles (unless otherwise stated)
• Accommodation for 3 nights in Cairo (includes breakfasts)
• Accommodation for 2 nights in Aswan (includes breakfasts)
• Accommodation for 3 nights on 5-Star Nile Cruise (full board)
• Accommodation for 4 nights in Amman (includes breakfasts)
• All sightseeing tours listed in the Egypt, Jordan And Israel Tours itinerary ( tours during Nile cruise are group tours)
• Entrance fees to all sites listed in the Egypt, Jordan And Israel Tours itinerary
• Local English speaking guide in Petra for about 2-3 hours
• Local English speaking guide in Jerash for about an hour
• English speaking guide in Jerusalem
• Domestic flights (Cairo-Aswan and Luxor-Cairo)
• Horse ride in Petra
• All service charges and taxes

Exclusions – What is not included in our 13 day Egypt, Jordan and Israel travel package:

• International airfare
• Entry visa for Egypt, Israel and Jordan
• Optional tours not listed in the Egypt, Jordan And Israel Tours itinerary
• Personal expenses
• Tipping Kitty
• Israeli departure tax at King Hussein Border between Israel and Jordan

Hotel and Cruise Accommodation (Gold Plan)

• Corp Amman Hotel (4-Star)
• Hilton Pyramids Golf Hotel (5-Star)
• Tolip Hotel Aswan (5-Star)
• Salacia Nile Cruise [Suite] (5-Star)

Hotel and Cruise Accommodation (Diamond Plan)

• Grand Hyatt Amman Hotel (5-Star)
• Le Riad Hotel de Charme (5-Star)
• Movenpick Hotel Aswan (5-Star)
• MS Salacia Nile Cruise [Upper Suite] (5-Star)

Prices for our combined Egypt, Jordan, and Israel Tours are quoted per person in US$ and are valid until the 30th of April 2024. Please inquire for pricing over Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter holidays.

Egypt and Jordan Tours

Still looking for the ultimate Egypt, Jordan and Israel Tour? Peruse our customizable Egypt and Jordan Combined Tours offered below, or take the reins and design the trip of your dreams with us right here .

23-Day Luxury Middle East Tour of Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Dubai and Abu Dhabi

19-Day Highlights of Morocco, Egypt and Jordan Tour

15-Day Egypt, Jordan, Israel Itinerary

15-Day Egypt and Jordan Trip – Cairo, Nile Cruise, Sharm…

15-Day Egypt, Jordan and Dubai Tour

14-Day Egypt And Jordan Combined Tour

12-Day Nile Cruise and Jordan Tour

11-Day Egypt and Jordan Itinerary

10-Day Egypt and Jordan Luxury Tours

7-Day Cairo to Petra Tour

8-Day Amman to Cairo Tour

Last Updated on March 18, 2024

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Argument: Arab Countries Have Israel’s Back—for Their Own Sake

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Arab Countries Have Israel’s Back—for Their Own Sake

Last weekend’s security cooperation in the Middle East doesn’t indicate a new future for the region.

• Middle East and North Africa
• Steven A. Cook

Do Arab leaders have Israel’s back? If one has scrolled through the social media commentary on the combined effort by Israeli, American, British, French, Jordanian, and possibly other Arab governments to thwart Iran’s missile and drone barrage on Israel, one might think so. A bevy of analysts, Israelis, and pro-Israel activists clearly want to believe it.

Alas, that claim is mostly hyperbole. Last weekend was many things, but the dawn of a “new Middle East,” marked by intensified Arab-Israeli cooperation at a renewed time of war, was not one of them. Fortunately, the truth is still reassuring enough.

Israel’s devastating military campaign in the Gaza Strip over the last six months has put significant pressure on its ties with Arab countries, especially Egypt and Jordan. Of the Arab states that have diplomatic relations with Israel, the Moroccan, Egyptian, and Emirati ambassadors remain in the country, though Abu Dhabi suspended its coordination of humanitarian aid with Israel after seven aid workers of the nonprofit World Central Kitchen were killed in an Israeli drone strike. Still, after all of the violence and diplomatic tension, it has become routine for journalists and analysts to ask whether the Abraham Accords, the diplomatic deal that normalized relations between Israel and several Gulf Arab states during the Trump administration, are now dead.

That’s one reason why the display last weekend of regional security coordination under the auspices of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) was so important. The other has to do with the United States itself. After more than a decade in which the American foreign-policy community sought to deemphasize, pivot away, and retrench from the Middle East, the Biden administration proved that Washington can be—separate from its confused approach to the war in Gaza—a source of security in the region.

But the conclusions should not be overstated. At the same time that Israel’s friends were high-fiving and the Israelis were publicly thanking the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Jordan, and regional powers for their help, Arab officials and analysts were working hard to temper all the talk about the new Middle East. Jordan’s King Abdullah II made clear that shooting down Iranian drones was a defense of their country’s airspace and that they would do the same if drones were launched in the other direction.

In a private conversation, one keen observer of the region and former Arab official relayed, “It comes down to how states perceive the legitimacy of military action. In the Red Sea, no one wanted to appear to be part of a maritime coalition that was seen to be defending Israel. Last night, countries shot down incoming projectiles because it can be portrayed as defending sovereign airspace and not wanting a regional war.”

Those are important arguments. Given the horrors of Gaza and the concomitant outrage of many Middle Easterners over the deaths of tens of thousands of innocents at the hands of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), there is not a single Arab leader willing to publicly align with Israel—much less secure it. Still, defending airspace and preventing an intensification of the ongoing regional conflict yields the same result: helping Israel.

Setting aside the cheerleading of recent days, the coordinated military operations that protected Israel from mass casualties and destruction highlight the durability of the Jordan-Israel and Egypt-Israel peace treaties as well as the 2020 normalization agreements. No doubt, relations between the Israeli and Jordanian governments have been under strain in recent years as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu focused attention on developing ties with the Gulf states and engaged in provocative policies in Jerusalem as well as the West Bank. This created political difficulties for Abdullah, threatening the delicate balance between the demands of Jordan’s majority Palestinian population, its active Islamist movement, and East Bank tribal leaders, alongside the strategic necessity of maintaining a profoundly unpopular relationship with Israel.

The king’s apparent determination to maintain ties to Israel—given their importance to Jordan-U.S. relations—included a security dialogue that remained important to Jordan’s leaders even as other aspects of the relationship with Israel weakened. This security cooperation intensified once Israel came under CENTCOM’s area of responsibility in September 2021. The Egyptians, for their part, do not seem to have played a discernible role in last weekend’s events, but they, too, have ensured that their security dialogue with Israel remains robust and mutually beneficial despite the many crises that have buffeted the bilateral relationship since 1979.

Critics will undoubtedly argue that these securitized relationships are nothing to cheer. The ties between Arab governments—whose legitimacy is compromised, in part because of their ties to the Israelis—and an Israeli state that has dispossessed and repressed Palestinians would not exist but for authoritarian leaders and the support they enjoy in Washington. But this does not negate the fact that the security dialogues that have been underway between these countries for years paid off on April 13.

The same basic argument holds for the Abraham Accords, under which security cooperation developed rapidly after years of informal and secret cooperation. There is no leader in the Gulf who trusts Netanyahu, and they recoil at what the IDF has wrought in Gaza, but the Emiratis, Bahrainis, and the Saudis (who are silent partners in the Abraham Accords) certainly dislike and fear Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps more. This underlines what everyone already knows about the accords and why supporters of the Palestinians are so angry about it: The Arab leaders who have normalized ties with Israel place more value on fending off the Iranian challenge than Palestinian statehood. Despite the absence of some Arab ambassadors in Israel throughout these months of shocking violence, none of the Arab states that have come to terms with Israel have completely broken ties. The Saudi government, for instance, publicly maintains that it remains committed to normalization, though officials in Riyadh say they will require serious progress toward a Palestinian state. Yet even after all the violence and bloodshed of innocents in Gaza, the very fact that the Saudis still want to move forward with the Israelis says a lot about where the Palestinian issue stands among Arab leaders’ priorities.

Finally, after more than two decades during which the American investment in the transformation of the Middle East returned little or nothing, last weekend’s coordinated effort to prevent a wider and more destructive regional war (and, yes, defend Israel) was the result of Washington’s leadership. The episode demonstrates that when American policymakers focus on preventing threats to regional stability and security—as opposed to leveraging the power at their disposal to remake societies—Washington can be successful. Sure, critics will argue that the United States has been destructive in enabling the IDF’s destruction of Gaza. That is a potent critique. Would these observers prefer an all-out war in the region? Some may, given their views on Israel, but U.S. policy dictates otherwise.

Last weekend, there was a lot of commentary on social media and elsewhere expressing amazement at a new Middle East in which countries of the region coordinated an effort to thwart Iran’s attack on Israel. There is something to be said for that. But what’s more amazing when one takes a step back is that war has not actually changed the region that much. Regional governments still hate and fear Iran, harbor no particular commitment to Palestinian justice, want good relations with Israel, and desire American leadership.

Update, April 18, 2024: Mention of Jordan’s majority Palestinian population has been added for clarity.

Steven A. Cook is a columnist at  Foreign Policy and the Eni Enrico Mattei senior fellow for Middle East and Africa studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. His latest book, The End of Ambition: America ’ s Past, Present, and Future in the Middle East , will be published in June 2024. Twitter:  @stevenacook

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News | Politics

Irish deputy premier to travel to Egypt and Jordan to push for Gaza ceasefire

Ireland’s deputy premier is to travel to Egypt and Jordan to push for the need for a ceasefire in Gaza and support efforts for a two-state solution.

The visit comes as tensions in the Middle East soar following attacks between Israel and Iran, and after a strike on the densely populated city of Rafah in southern Gaza, in which 18 children and four adults were killed.

Israel has said it will carry out a ground offensive on the city located at the Egyptian border, despite international calls for restraint, including from the US and Ireland.

It is vital that we use any political capital that we have to generate momentum for a comprehensive regional peace, along the lines envisaged by the Arab peace plan

Tanaiste Micheal Martin

Tanaiste and minister for foreign affairs Micheal Martin said his visit would aim to put a focus back on the “brutal conflict” amid increased instability in the region.

Mr Martin is due to meet this week with Egyptian foreign minister Sameh Shoukry in Cairo and with Jordanian deputy prime minister and foreign minister Ayman Safadi in Amman.

“I very much look forward to meeting my counterparts in Egypt and Jordan,” he said ahead of the trip.

“Both countries have been at the forefront of international efforts to bring about a desperately needed ceasefire and address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, while maintaining a focus on longer-term political solutions.

“We will continue our discussions on how Ireland and other like-minded countries in Europe can support the resolution of this brutal conflict, including through the recognition of a Palestinian state and support for UN membership for Palestine.

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“It is vital that we use any political capital that we have to generate momentum for a comprehensive regional peace, along the lines envisaged by the Arab peace plan.

“A two-state solution remains the only vision of the future that can ensure peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.”

Mr Martin is also due to travel to the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza to meet humanitarian partners and to visit UNRWA programmes supporting Palestinian refugees in Jordan.

Up to 1.5 million people are sheltering in Rafah and the humanitarian consequences of any Israeli military operation in the area would be disastrous

“Against a backdrop of increased regional instability, we cannot lose sight of the urgency of addressing the current crisis in Gaza and the wider Israeli/Palestinian issue,” he said.

“My visit to Egypt and Jordan will focus on continuing my discussions with key partners on the need for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages and full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza.

“I will also focus on how Ireland can support regional efforts to return to a political pathway towards a sustainable and peaceful resolution of this conflict and a two-state solution.”

Speaking about Gaza, Mr Martin said: “We cannot and must not lose focus on the situation in Gaza, which remains extremely grave.

“I will use my visit to the Rafah crossing to highlight the impact of ongoing Israeli restrictions on humanitarian access, which prevents life-saving aid from reaching the people of Gaza.

“Up to 1.5 million people are sheltering in Rafah and the humanitarian consequences of any Israeli military operation in the area would be disastrous.

“It is vital at such a moment of humanitarian need and regional instability to demonstrate clear and unwavering support for the work of UNRWA which remains the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza and a pillar of regional stability.”

An uneasy alliance of Arab states helped defend Israel from Iran. Their resolve may soon be tested.

BEIRUT — Since Iran’s unprecedented retaliatory attack against Israel was thwarted over the weekend with the help of the U.S. and its Middle Eastern allies, the Biden administration has crowed that the “coalition” averted a regional war.

An Israeli response, however, would test the durability of an informal coalition of awkward bedfellows, including Saudi Arabia , Jordan and the United Arab Emirates , whose recent cooperation against Iran has the potential to be damaging on the home front, analysts say.  

“Those Arab countries are in a very critical situation,” said Oraib Al Rantawi, director of the Al Quds Center for Political Studies, a think tank based in Jordan’s capital, Amman. “There is no easy position to take for all of them, especially Jordan, which for geopolitical reasons has found itself trapped between two troublemakers — Iran and Israel.”  

After Iran’s barrage of more than 300 missiles and drones did limited damage, as many of them were shot down by American, British, Israeli and Jordanian forces, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said Monday on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” that the coordinated operation was “an extraordinary military success” that sent “a strong message about where Israel is in the region versus where Iran is in the region, which is increasingly isolated.”  

But there was no such boasting from America’s partners in the Middle East, where even acknowledgment of the weekend’s events was muted.

One sighting of their difficult domestic messaging came Monday, when Jordan’s foreign minister, Ayman Safadi, told state television that the country would defend itself against any threat to its sovereignty and airspace, including from Israel.

The comments, echoed in foreign media interviews, were among the few public statements Jordanian officials have made about the country’s role. 

Iran said the salvo was retaliation for an attack on the Iranian consular building in the Syrian capital, Damascus, which killed two senior commanders and five advisers from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps . Israel has not claimed responsibility for the attack, for which it is widely believed to be responsible. 

Israel may test Jordan’s commitment in a matter of hours depending on whether and how it decides to respond.

Among the three Arab states that participated in Israel’s defense, Jordan is the only one that shares a border with Israel and the only one that took part in the air operation to destroy the drones. 

In a measure of the Middle East’s new realignment, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates shared intelligence about Iranian plans with the U.S. after they were briefed on them to safeguard their airspace, as first reported on Monday by The Wall Street Journal . 

While the UAE normalized its diplomatic relations with Israel four years ago, Saudi Arabia was on the verge of doing so before the negotiations were derailed by Hamas’ Oct. 7 attacks, which Israeli officials say killed 1,200 people.     

Both of the monied Gulf monarchies are “heavily reliant on Western states,” said Tahani Mustafa, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, a Belgium-based think tank. Saudi Arabia “wants a U.S. security pact,” he said. “Until that alliance is kind of fixed, Saudi will try to do all it can to remain in the U.S.’ good books.” 

Jordan’s participation signaled a kind of volte-face for a state that has been unsparing in its criticism of Israel’s six-month military campaign in the Gaza Strip. It was the first country to withdraw its ambassador from Israel, it has repeatedly called for a cease-fire, and it has taken the lead on delivering aid into the besieged enclave. 

Rather than signal a newfound affection for its neighbor, Jordan’s participation in the operation shows its wholesale reliance on American and Israeli diplomatic and economic support, said Rantawi of the Al Quds Center for Political Studies. 

Even though Palestinian refugees are about half of the population, Jordan became the second Arab country to recognize Israel in 1994. Its reliance on the wider West goes even deeper: Jordan’s landscape is dotted with American, French and British military bases, and its economy is largely propped up by humanitarian and military aid.

Jordan’s government also signed a 2021 defense agreement that essentially gives the American military free use of its land and airspace.

“I don’t think they’ll have much choice than to go wherever the tide takes them,” said Mustafa of the International Crisis Group. “It’s ultimately not up to them.”

Jordan is also eager to parry calls from right-wing Israeli lawmakers to take in more Palestinian refugees — part of a long-standing push to effectively turn Jordan into a de facto Palestinian state, she said.

But Jordan’s participation in the American “coalition” could still stand in the way of the government’s desire to close the yawning gap between public policy and public opinion, Rantawi said, citing Jordanians’ relentless criticism of Israel’s war in Gaza.

So far, the messaging has appeared to work in all three countries. Tensions between the largely Sunni Muslim Saudi Arabia, Jordan and the UAE on one side and Iran, which is majority Shia, on the other have dominated the Middle East for decades.

“There has been a narrative going on for years that Iran is trying to destabilize Jordan,” said Ghaith al-Omari, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy and a former official in the Palestinian Authority.

The ball is now very much in Israel’s court. Were Israel to launch a tit-for-tat strike on Iran, it would risk further alienating public opinion among its hard-won Middle East partners, Omari said.

“Things can become very messy if the Israelis try to retaliate over Jordanian airspace,” he said.

Matt Bradley is a London-based foreign correspondent for NBC News and MSNBC.

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Iran missile and drone attack on Israel – what we know so far

Israel’s military has reported minor damage after Iran launched dozens of drones and missiles towards it late on Saturday

• Iran attack on Israel – live updates
• Full report: Iran launches drones and cruise missiles against Israel

Iran launched hundreds of drones as well as cruise missiles towards Israel , in the Islamic Republic’s first ever direct attack on the Jewish state, in response to the 1 April strike on an Iranian diplomatic building in the Syrian capital, Damascus, which killed a senior figure in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards and eight other officers.

Benny Gantz, a member of the war cabinet, said that Israel will exact a price from Iran in response to its mass missile and drone attack when the time is right. His comments came ahead of a war cabinet meeting alongside Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and the country’s defence minister, Yoav Gallant.

Tehran has warned it will strike again with greater force if Israel or the US retaliate for the Iranian strike on Israel by more 300 drones and missiles on Saturday night. The air raids , the Islamic Republic’s first ever direct attack on the Israeli state, brought a years-long shadow war into the open and threatened to draw the region into a broader conflagration as Israel said it was considering its response.

However, the attack, mostly launched from inside Iran, caused only modest damage in Israel as most were shot down with the help of the US, Britain and Jordan. An air force base in southern Israel was hit, but continued to operate as normal and a seven-year-old child was seriously hurt by shrapnel. There were no other reports of serious damage. Israeli military spokesperson Rear Adm Daniel Hagari said that 99% of the launches had been intercepted.

Most of the Iranian drones flying over Syria’s airspace during Tehran’s strikes overnight were downed by Israeli and US jets before reaching their targets in Israel, two western intelligence sources told Reuters .

The UN security council will hold an emergency meeting on Sunday at the request of Israel’s ambassador to the UN, the council’s president said in a statement.

Iran informed Turkey in advance of its planned operation against Israel, a Turkish diplomatic source has told Reuters . The source also said that the US conveyed to Iran via Ankara that its operation must be “within certain limits”. These reports come after Iran’s foreign minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian , said in a meeting with foreign ambassadors in Tehran that Iran had informed the US that its attacks against Israel will be “limited” and for self-defence only.

John Kirby, the White House’s top national security spokesperson, told ABC’s This Week programme on Sunday that the US will continue to help Israel defend itself, but does not want war with Iran. “We don’t seek escalated tensions in the region. We don’t seek a wider conflict,” Kirby said. News outlet Axios reported that Joe Biden , the US president, had told Netanyahu that he would oppose an Israeli counterattack against Iran and that the prime minister should “take the win”.

UK Royal Air Force fighter jets and refuelling aircraft were also involved in Israel’s defence, taking off from bases in Cyprus. Their role, according to the UK Ministry of Defence, was to fill in for the US air force in the sorties against Islamic State normally carried out over Iraq and north-eastern Syria, but also to intercept Iranian drones if they came into the UK area of operations.

World leaders have condemned Iran’s attack, with regional powers including Saudi Arabia and Egypt calling for restraint. The UN secretary general, António Guterres, said: “I am deeply alarmed about the very real danger of a devastating region-wide escalation. I urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid any action that could lead to major military confrontations on multiple fronts in the Middle East.”

Jordan’s prime minister, Bisher Khasawneh , warned that any escalation in the region would lead to “dangerous paths”, joining a chorus of condemnation from world leaders to the attack. Other countries including the UK, Spain, the US, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and China, have called for restraint amid fears of a regional escalation of conflict across the Middle East. Iran’s foreign ministry has summoned the ambassadors of the UK , France , and Germany to question what it referred to as their “irresponsible stance” regarding Tehran’s retaliatory strikes on Israel, the semi-official Iranian Labour news agency reported .

Major airlines across the Middle East, including Emirates Airlines and Qatar Airways , announced they would resume some of their operations in the region after cancelling or rerouting some flights in response to Iran’s attack on Israel. Israel said it had reopened its airspace as of 7:30am local time on Sunday morning, with Beirut airport also reopening this morning. Several Iranian airports, including Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International, however, have cancelled flights until Monday.

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Micheál Martin heading to Middle East amid ‘intensive efforts’ to tackle regional crisis

Tánaiste will meet ministers in egypt and jordan to discuss israel-hamas ceasefire, release of hostages and humanitarian aid for gaza.

Minister Micheál Martin (L) shakes hands with Egyptian foreign minister Sameh Shoukry on November 15th, 2023, during a previous meeting. Photograph: KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images

Tánaiste Micheál Martin will travel to Egypt and Jordan over the coming days as part of “intensive efforts” to address the crisis in the Middle East .

Mr Martin, who is also the Minister for Foreign Affairs, will meet Egyptian foreign minister Sameh Shoukry in Cairo and Jordanian deputy prime minister and foreign minister Ayman Safadi in Amman.

He will also meet humanitarian partners at the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza, and visit Unrwa (the United Nations Relief and Works Agency) programmes supporting Palestinian refugees in Jordan.

Speaking in advance of the visit, Mr Martin said against a backdrop of increased regional instability, “we cannot lose sight of the urgency of addressing the current crisis in Gaza and the wider Israeli/Palestinian issue”.

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“My visit to Egypt and Jordan will focus on continuing my discussions with key partners on the need for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages and full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza,” he said.

“I will also focus on how Ireland can support regional efforts to return to a political pathway towards a sustainable and peaceful resolution of this conflict and a two-state solution.”

The Tánaiste said the Government would continue discussions on how it and other “like-minded countries in Europe” could support the resolution of the conflict, including through the recognition of a Palestinian state and support for UN membership for Palestine.

“It is vital that we use any political capital that we have to generate momentum for a comprehensive regional peace, along the lines envisaged by the Arab peace plan,” he said. “A two-state solution remains the only vision of the future that can ensure peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.”

The Fianna Fáil leader added the situation in Gaza remains “extremely grave” and that he would use his visit to the Rafah crossing to highlight the impact of “ongoing Israeli restrictions on humanitarian access”.

“Up to 1.5 million people are sheltering in Rafah and the humanitarian consequences of any Israeli military operation in the area would be disastrous,” he added.

“It is vital at such a moment of humanitarian need and regional instability to demonstrate clear and unwavering support for the work of Unrwa, which remains the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza and a pillar of regional stability.”

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Sarah Burns

Sarah Burns is a reporter for The Irish Times

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Wholesale Tour Packages Since 1987 - Call Us Toll Free: 800.322.0788

Israel, Egypt & Jordan Christian Tours: 14 Day Package 2024, 2025

Many departure dates year round.

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Price per person double occupancy.

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Price Includes: 5 star lodging in Cairo, 2.5 star lodging in Mt. Sinai, good 4 star lodging in Jordan and Israel, expert Biblical guides, admissions, baggage handling, sightseeing, breakfast & dinner daily, 1 lunch, border taxes ($26), Jordan entry visa for most countries (see "Not Included" section below). Hotel Ratings Chart

Please Note: Egypt, Jordan and Israel gratuities will be paid in advance ($185 per person will be added to your final invoice for gratuities to be paid to drivers, guides and hotel staff).

Not Included: Flight departures (low cost fares available nationwide), transfers (not included unless airfare is purchased from Pilgrim Tours), gratuities, Egyptian visa ($25 Visa obtained for U.S. Citizens). Egypt visa fee is payable upon arrival at the Cairo airport and does not need to be purchased in advance (except for Canadian citizens). Jordan visa payments are not required for Pilgrim clients originating from USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, & New Zealand. Clients from other countries must be responsible for obtaining Egypt, Jordan, & Israel Visas in advance if required.

Airport transfers are included only when airfare is purchased from Pilgrim Tours. Taxi service is available for those purchasing their airfare elsewhere.

*Customers traveling to Israel that do not provide their full passport information will incur an additional fee of $160 per person to cover the Israel VAT (value-add tax) on their final invoice.

Deposit Required: A $300 per person US Dollar deposit (which includes a $100 non-refundable service fee) is required to secure a reservation.

Day 1: Departure

Our life-changing journey begins this evening as we board our overnight flight to Cairo, Egypt.

Day 2: Arrival Cairo

We arrive in the land of the Pharaohs, Jacob, Joseph and Israel during the famine! Upon arrival in Cairo we meet our guide and driver who will transport us to the hotel for dinner and rest for the remainder of the evening. We relax tonight as we prepare for the adventurous travel ahead.

Day 3: Cairo Pyramids & Tutankhamen’s Treasures

Today we travel back to ancient Egypt with a full day of touring to the wonders of the ancient world, some of which date back to 1000+ years prior to Abraham. We spend time at one of the seven wonders of the world- the pyramids. Cheops, with an original height of 496 feet, is the most colossal pyramid ever built. Today, we will also see the Sphinx and tour the Egyptian Museum, location of Tutankhamen's treasures and ancient remains.

Day 4: Marah, Amalekites, Mt. Moses

This morning we depart Cairo with stories of the "Land of Goshen" to the north and travel the southward route of the Exodus through the Wilderness of Shur. We learn of the terrain and the history of this region en-route as we stop at Marah (Springs of Moses), the Wilderness of Sin, and further to the south, the Oasis of Feiran. For those who are able, we climb a small hill to the ruins of an ancient chapel that overlooks the palm tree valley where Israel battled with the people of Amalek. One may have his picture taken with arms raised in remembrance of God's victory as Moses' arms were held high by Aaron and Hur. Arriving in the afternoon to the hotel at Mt. Sinai (Mt. Horeb). Those who desire and are physically capable will depart for a memorable walk up Mt. Moses. You may choose to ride a camel part way, stop at one of the stations to take in scenery along the climb to the summit (750 steps) for a sunset to remember. Once at the top, enjoy a time of reflection and praise before departing down the mountain.

Day 5: St. Catherine's, Red Sea, Aqaba

A visit to St. Catherine's Monastery, claimed to be built around the area of Moses' Burning Bush, will be followed by a short ride to the Red Sea. A stop for lunch along the shore will provide a view of Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Israel to the north. Gazing across the Gulf of Aqaba, we can begin to imagine the miracle of the parting of the sea. We then travel north viewing the Red Sea en-route to the border crossing between Egypt and Israel. Transferring through Eilat in southern Israel, we arrive in Jordan Aqaba, Biblical Ezion Geber - the lovely seaport of King Solomon. Our lodging this evening will be in Aqaba or Petra.

Day 6: Petra

This morning we visit the amazing mountain fortress of Petra, known to be inhabited by the Edomites - the descendants of Esau. Begin the tour with a walk through the "Siq," an immense crack in the Nubian sandstone, to the city of Petra carved out of the rose red rock. The Treasury, El Khazneh, is one of the most elegant remains of antiquity. Beyond El Khazneh we are surrounded on both sides by hundreds of Petra's carved and built structures. Departing Petra, we travel northward on the King's Highway where to the west we view the hills bordering the Dead Sea. This is the area of the hilltop palace/fortress of Machaerus, where John the Baptist was beheaded. We overnight in Amman for this evening.

Day 7: Mt Nebo, Madaba, Tel Aviv

Our morning tour begins in the town of Madaba, the biblical Medeba, 30 kilometers south of Amman. Madaba is best known for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics and at the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George we view the earliest surviving mosaic map of the Holy land. Mt. Nebo, believed to be the site of the tomb of Moses, commands a spectacular view across the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. Study the panorama as we read the scripture of God showing Moses the "Promised Land" before He brought him home to heaven. As we travel west toward the Allenby Bridge, we view to the north the Plains of Moab, the area where the tribes of Israel camped before crossing the Jordan and picture Bethany Beyond the Jordan, the place where Jesus was baptized. Crossing back into Israel, we drive to Tel Aviv area with the remainder of the afternoon free. You may wish to take a devotional time with the sunset over the “Great Sea,” a time of prayer and thanks for the special blessings ahead, a prayer for the people of this land, and then enjoy a good night’s rest.

Day 8: Caesarea, Megiddo, & Nazareth

After breakfast, we travel by private motor coach along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea to Caesarea, where Gentiles first heard the Good News from Peter and were baptized. We’ll see the Roman Amphitheatre, hippodrome, a film on history and the remains of this famous port city, an aqueduct, and then journey through the Mt. Carmel range, where Elijah challenged King Ahab and the prophets of Baal. Next we travel through the Jezreel Valley to Megiddo, the Armageddon battlefield, where archaeologists have unearthed 20 levels of civilization. We drive through the area of Cana and Nazareth, the boyhood home of Jesus, where we visit the Nazareth Village, a wonderful recreation of Biblical times with costumed guides. We will have dinner and overnight lodging for the next three nights along the Sea of Galilee.

Day 9: Dan, Caesarea Philippi, Jesus Boat, Sea of Galilee Boat Ride, Magdala

Following breakfast, our morning travels take us to two valuable northern sites. Dan is where the children of Israel fell to the depths of alternative sacrifice and Caesarea Philippi, the site of Peter’s confession and pagan worship. We pass the possible site of the multiplication of loaves and fishes in Bethsaida and the Mount of the Beatitudes. Returning to Galilee for a St. Peter’s fish lunch (other selections available), we then visit the ancient fisherman boat followed by a relaxing cruise on the Sea of Galilee. A brief scripture reading and devotional on board brings to life the experiences of Jesus and the fishermen disciples. We conclude our day with a visit to Magdala, hometown of Mary Magdalene. The recent excavation of the first century synagogue and well-preserved village makes Magdala one of the most interesting Biblical sites in Israel.

Day 10: Capernaum, Corazin, Mt. Arbel, Jordan River Baptism Site

Today we visit the Biblical towns of Capernaum and Corazin. Capernaum is located along the Sea of Galilee and was the hometown of Peter. It is likely where Jesus and the disciples lived during much of His ministry while in Galilee. Next, we visit Corazin which offers another example of a Jewish synagogue and a replica of the “Seat of Moses” which was carved out of the local basalt block and from which the scribes and Pharisees would have read the Torah. We enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Galilee region atop Mt. Arbel. Mt. Arbel could likely be the location that Jesus would get away from the crowds to take time in prayer with His heavenly Father. Here our guide will point out the various towns listed in scripture during the time of Jesus. We conclude our day with an opportunity to be baptized at the Jordan River Baptismal Site.

Day 11: Beit Shean, Bethany Beyond Jordan, Abraham's Tent, Mt. of Olives & Garden of Gethsemane

We travel southward this morning to Beit-Shean/Scythopolis, the most magnificent archeological site in Israel, located at the strategic juncture of the Jezreel and Jordan valleys. Like Jericho, it has been almost continuously occupied throughout history. After defeating Saul and his sons on Mt. Gilboa, the Philistines hanged their bodies on the walls of Beit-Shean. During the time of Jesus, Scythopolis was one of the chief cities of the Decapolis - a league of ten cities sharing Greek culture and government. Following the fertile Jordan Valley southward, your guide will point out the agricultural restoration of the “Land of Milk and Honey” and Israel’s intricate irrigation development. We pass ancient Jericho and view from a distance this city famed as the oldest in the world. To the east of Jericho along the Jordan River Valley (Queser El Yehud) is the Israeli side of Bethany Beyond the Jordan. In this area Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist; Elijah and Elisha crossed the Jordan; and the children of Israel, led by Joshua, entered the Promised Land. This afternoon we will take part in the Genesis Land/Dinner in Abraham's Tent, where we enjoy a trip back in time to relive life in the time of the Patriarchs, complete with costume, dramatic presentation, camel ride and authentic food. Arriving in Jerusalem we’ll enjoy a beautiful view of the Old City atop the Mt. of Olives and then the Garden of Gethsemane. How many have wished to be whisked back in time to get a glimpse of our Lord or hear His voice if only for a moment? To walk between the ancient olive trees, read the scriptures of Jesus' prayer and take time for personal reflection is important here. We will have dinner and overnight lodging for the next three nights in Jerusalem.

Day 12: Masada, Ein Gedi, Dead Sea Scrolls, Dead Sea Swim

Our day begins with a cable car ride to the mountain top fortress of Masada. Here our guide will treat us to the history of the famous zealot stand. Afterwards we proceed to Ein Gedi, "Spring of the Goat," an oasis on the western shore of the Dead Sea. Because of its warm climate and abundant supply of water, the site developed a reputation for its fragrant plants and date palm groves. This is where King David hid from Saul and where God defeated the enemies of the Israelites by praise and worship led by King Jehoshaphat. Next, we visit the Qumran Caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. This afternoon we have an opportunity to enjoy a relaxing float in the Dead Sea.

Day 13: Jesus’ Steps, Western Walls, Southern Steps, Way of Suffering, Garden Tomb

Today we walk where Jesus walked, beginning the day with a visit to the Wailing Wall and then the fascinating Rabbinical Tunnels leading us through the Second Temple era. The tunnel and exhibit give a clear understanding of the amazing construction of the Temple Mount, giant stones, water supply and Roman street where our Lord was led to judgment. Before exiting the tunnel, we see the immense cornerstone rejected by the builders. Next, we visit the Southern Wall Excavations. This southern side of The Temple was the main entrance for the common folk, whereas the Priests and Levites had their own entrance from the higher eastern side. Parts of the giant stairs, which led to the Temple Mount from the courtyard have been unearthed along with the purification pools. From here Jesus entered the Temple Mount and drove out the vendors and money exchangers who were exploiting the people. It is also likely that this is the place where Peter stood and preached and where thousands were saved and baptized on the Day of Pentecost. This afternoon we move on to the Judgment Hall of Pilate, hear of those who conspired against Him and are reminded of His brutal beating and humiliation. From here we will also be able to see the Pool of Bethesda, Stephen's Gate, and St. Anne’s Church. While walking along the Via Dolorosa, we are reminded of His way of suffering along with a visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Our guide will explain the differing opinions on the route where Christ was led. (The actual place of crucifixion and burial is a very interesting study!) The climax of the day is the area of Golgotha (place of the skull) and the Garden Tomb, where we celebrate the resurrection with communion and a time of praise.

Day 14: Home

A very early morning departure for the Tel Aviv Airport for our flight homeward will allow for arrival home by early afternoon.

Important Note: Although the itinerary above obviously emphasizes the spiritual aspect of this marvelous country, our guides are also experts in and passionate about the miracle of the return of the Jews and the restoration of the state of Israel. This fact, along with many modern day topics (military, politics, education, and other cultural aspects), will be woven into the commentary in order to give you well rounded information.

*The tour itinerary is subject to change or be slightly modified in order to best meet the interests of the group.

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