Embark on a 21-day cruise from Cairo to Amman aboard the Sanctuary Sun Boat III. Explore the highlights of Egypt and Jordan on a comprehensive journey through ancient and modern history. Stand before the Great Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza and explore the monumental temples of Luxor. Cruise the Nile in comfort, visiting key archaeological sites, including Abu Simbel and the Grand Egyptian Museum. In Jordan, float in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea and walk through Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Middle East. Visit Bethany Beyond the Jordan, believed to be the site where Jesus was baptized. Travel through the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum and end your journey at the iconic Treasury of Petra, one of the world's most famous archaeological wonders.
Highlights
Explore Giza's pyramids and marvel at ancient architectural mastery
Discover Luxor’s Karnak Temple and vast hypostyle column hall
Visit Valley of the Nobles and see vividly preserved tomb frescoes
Admire Dendera’s temple reliefs and celestial zodiac carvings
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Begin your journey with a two-night stay at a landmark hotel in Giza, ideally situated near the Great Pyramids. Take in sweeping views of these ancient structures from the hotel grounds. Standing for over 4,500 years, the pyramids are the last remaining of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This stay offers a rare opportunity to experience their historical significance and remarkable engineering up close.
Sunset Drinks
Savor cocktails and canapés while watching the sun set over the magnificent pyramids.
Please book your flight to arrive in Cairo before 02:00 PM.
Day 2: Giza
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
Experience the monumental scale of the pyramids and stand before the iconic Sphinx, a 20-meter limestone guardian that has watched over Giza for thousands of years. Then, explore the Grand Egyptian Museum, home to the renowned treasures of King Tutankhamun, which shed light on the life, death, and legacy of the young pharaoh.
A key highlight is the Solar Boat exhibit, which showcases a fully restored cedar wood vessel dating back to approximately 2500 BC. Discovered near the Great Pyramid of Khufu, this ancient barge reflects the advanced craftsmanship and funerary traditions of the era, offering a rare glimpse into how the Egyptians prepared their kings for the afterlife.
Fly to Luxor and check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Explore the Karnak Temple Complex, one of the largest religious sites in the world, spanning over 200 acres. Marvel at the enormity of the Hypostyle Hall, a forest of 134 towering columns, each intricately engraved with hieroglyphs, depicting the rich tapestry of ancient Egyptian mythology and history. This magnificent site served as a key place of worship and a testament to the architectural prowess of the New Kingdom pharaohs.
This morning, explore the Valley of the Nobles, a site with hundreds of rock-cut tombs belonging to ancient Egyptian nobility. These tombs, richly adorned with vibrant frescoes, provide a fascinating glimpse into the daily activities and cultural practices of their inhabitants. That's because the detailed wall paintings in each tomb showcase the artistic mastery of the time while also offering valuable insights into the social and economic structures of ancient Egypt, depicting scenes of agriculture, trade, and festivities that animated their world.
Board the elegant Sanctuary Sun Boat III and settle into your suite. As you cross to the West Bank of the Nile, prepare to be amazed by the well-preserved, vibrant hieroglyphics that decorate the tombs in the Valley of the Kings. You can also have the chance to visit the former residence of Howard Carter, the British archaeologist and Egyptologist who discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922. Admire Queen Hatshepsut’s impressive monument.
Unwind on board your cruise and observe the vibrant daily life along the mighty Nile as you journey towards Dendera. There, visit the Temple of Hathor, one of the best-preserved temple complexes in Egypt, renowned for its magnificent capitals and the Dendera Zodiac ceiling relief. This temple, dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love and joy, showcases exquisite architecture and intricate carvings that reveal the sophistication of ancient Egyptian religious practices.
After exploring Dendera, return to Luxor to visit the majestic Luxor Temple. Situated in the heart of ancient Thebes, Luxor Temple is a grandiose testament to the architectural prowess of Egyptian civilization, featuring colossal statues of Ramesses II and amenities originally built by Amenhotep III, which illuminate the temple's religious and political significance throughout history.
Trace the path once taken by ancient pharaohs' processions as you cruise south along the Nile. Admire the rural villages and majestic temples that dot the riverbanks. Explore the Esna Temple, one of ancient Egypt’s holiest sites, revered for its beautifully preserved hypostyle hall and intricate carvings dedicated to Khnum, the ram-headed god of the river. Later, sail to the striking Kom Ombo Temple, strategically located on the East Bank. This unique double temple is dedicated to Sobek, the Crocodile God, and Horus the Elder, reflecting the duality of ancient Egyptian theology.
As the sun sets, the onboard atmosphere comes alive with a vibrant Galabeya party. Enjoy an evening of Egyptian delicacies, vibrant music, and dancing, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Cruise south to Aswan, the picturesque city and cultural heart of the Nubian community. Explore the Temple of Isis at Philae, an ancient sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Isis, which exemplifies the fusion of three great civilizations: Egyptian, Greek, and Roman. After your visit, unwind with a leisurely felucca sail on the Nile, experiencing the traditional Egyptian way of boating.
In the evening, enjoy a vibrant display of Nubian dance performance, celebrating the region's rich culture. Conclude your day with a farewell Gala Dinner alongside the captain and crew, a memorable end to your Nile cruise.
Aswan, nestled at the southern tip of Egypt along the Nile, is celebrated for its serene beauty and rich archaeological sites. This city serves as a cultural gateway, enriched by Nubian heritage and landmarks such as the Philae Temple and the Aswan High Dam, which have significantly reshaped Egypt's landscape.
Enjoy your Special Stay at your luxurious hotel, where figures like Princess Diana and Winston Churchill have stayed. Savor pre-dinner drinks at The Terrace before dining at the acclaimed 1902 restaurant.
Freechoice
Choose from a range of activities.
Nubian Museum: Explore the Nubian Museum, which showcases the rich history and artifacts of Nubian culture dating back to approximately 2000 BC.
Visit a Nubian Village: Experience the rich heritage of the Nubians with a guided tour through a traditional village, including a visit to a local home to witness life along the Nile firsthand.
Kalabsha Temple: Discover Kalabsha Temple on Lake Nasser's shores, admiring its grand architecture and detailed reliefs.
Fly to Abu Simbel to witness one of Egypt’s most awe-inspiring sites: The massive World Heritage-listed temples of Ramses II and his queen, Nefertari. These architectural wonders were meticulously relocated in the 1960s to save them from submersion by Lake Nasser, created by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The temples are celebrated for their colossal statues and intricate carvings that glorify Ramses' reign and honor Nefertari, reflecting the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization.
Fly to the vibrant city of Cairo for a two-night stay at your elegant hotel, perfectly situated to explore the city's rich history. Visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, a premier cultural institution showcasing extensive collections from Egypt's diverse eras. The highlight is the Royal Mummies’ Hall, where you can marvel at the preserved remains of ancient Egypt’s pharaohs, offering a unique window into the medical, artistic, and ceremonial practices of the ancient civilization.
Enjoy one more full day in Cairo. Choose from a variety of Scenic Freechoice experiences to tailor your day to your tastes and pace.
Freechoice
Coptic Cairo: Find yourself winding through the streets of Old Cairo. Visit Cairo’s Coptic Museum, containing one of the world’s largest collections of Egyptian Christian artifacts. Continue to the Hanging Church and have a chance to visit Ben Ezra Synagogue.
Historic Cairo: Explore medieval Cairo’s Sultan Hassan Mosque, learn about Arabic calligraphy, and see community projects at Souq al-Silah and Bayt Yakan.
Roda Island: Explore Roda Island with stops at a 9th-century Nilometer and the Manial Palace Museum, showcasing the era of Prince Muhammad Ali.
Fly to Amman, the capital and largest city of Jordan, located in the north-central part of the country. Transfer to your luxurious hotel on the Dead Sea for a two-night Special Stay and enjoy stunning views and a welcome dinner with your Tour Director and fellow travelers.
Day 14: Dead Sea
1 Breakfast
Take full advantage of your resort's amenities at the Dead Sea, including direct access to its tranquil waters. Treat yourself to a therapeutic mud treatment, renowned for its rich minerals and healing properties. Relax and float effortlessly in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth; you may even enjoy reading a book in this unique environment.
Be immersed in a profound sense of relaxation while indulging in this remarkable natural spa experience, set against the stunning backdrop of the surrounding desert landscape.
Sunset Drinks
Enjoy drinks and canapés as the sun sets over the magnificent Dead Sea.
This morning begins with a visit to Mount Nebo, a site of profound biblical significance where Moses is believed to have viewed the Promised Land before his death. Explore the memorial and enjoy panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea from this historic vantage point.
Continue to Madaba, known as the "City of Mosaics." Here, you can discover the famous mosaic map of the Holy Land, dating back to the 6th century, beautifully preserved within the floor of St. George's Church. Visit the Madaba Institute for Mosaic Art and Restoration, which is dedicated to preserving and restoring the ancient mosaics found throughout the region. Conclude your day by arriving in Petra for a two-night stay, located just steps from the entrance to this ancient Nabatean city.
Discover Petra, the "Rose Red City," a World Heritage-listed site that stands as a testament to the ancient Nabataeans who carved this city into the rocky landscape over 2,000 years ago. Begin your exploration by walking through the Siq, a narrow, winding gorge flanked by towering cliffs of vibrant reds and oranges. This path leads you to Petra’s most iconic structure, the Treasury, whose stunning 40-meter-high rock-cut facade was crafted to impress all who wander into this ancient city. The elaborate carvings and architectural prowess make the Treasury a true marvel of ancient engineering and artistry.
strong>Enrich
Baking bread is an essential part of Jordanian culture, present in every meal. Join locals as they teach you traditional bread-making techniques passed down through generations.
Travel in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia as you discover the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon. This majestic area offers vast red sands and towering rock formations that have captivated travelers for centuries.
You can experience the desert in true luxury with a Special Stay at the Wadi Rum Palmera Camp, where you can sleep under the stars in bubble tents. Enjoy unobstructed views of the desert sky, enhancing your connection to this timeless landscape.
Sunset Drinks
Witness the dramatic colors of the desert at sunset over a refreshing drink.
Travel back to Amman for a three-night Special Stay. Join your Tour Director for a walk through the food and produce markets and experience the daily life and flavors of the city.
Visit Citadel Hill, an ancient historical site that offers panoramic views of Amman and features important landmarks, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace. Explore the Roman Theater, a stunningly preserved 2nd-century amphitheater that once seated 6,000 spectators, illustrating the Roman influence on the region. Further enhance your understanding of Jordan’s rich history and culture at the Jordan Museum, which features a comprehensive collection that spans from ancient civilizations to modern history, including the famous Dead Sea Scrolls.
Continue exploring Amman by choosing from a diverse range of experiences.
Freechoice
Downtown Graffiti Tour Take an off-the-beaten-path walking tour and explore some of Amman’s oldest neighborhoods and their relationship with street art and graffiti. Learn the history of the city and the evolution of Amman’s street art community.
Iraq Al-Amir Women’s Cooperative Tour: Visit the Iraq Al Amir Women’s Cooperative, where local women engage in traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and paper making to preserve heritage and support the community.
Royal Automobile Museum Visit: View the extensive private collection of the Royal Family. Discover at leisure King Hussein’s personal collection of over 70 classic cars and motorbikes. Ranging from pre-1950s to modern sports cars of today, this rare collection will delight any car enthusiast. These cars capture moments in history with the collection boasting the royal blue Lincoln Capri that led Hussein to his coronation and a replica of a 1915 Rolls Royce that once belonged to Lawrence of Arabia.
Enrich
Tonight, immerse yourself in Jordanian culture with a home-hosted dinner in a traditional Jordanian residence. Delight in the warmth and hospitality of your hosts as you savor authentic local cuisine and gain intimate insights into the customs and traditions of Jordan.
A transformative experience awaits you today as you visit Bethany Beyond the Jordan, the revered site where Jesus was baptized. This location holds profound historical and spiritual significance, featuring ancient churches, baptismal pools, and pilgrim sites, which provide a tangible connection to biblical events.
Continue your journey to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Middle East. Wander through its colonnaded streets, grand temples, and theaters, marveling at the sophisticated urban layout and the remarkable condition of these ancient structures.
Enrich
Tonight, celebrate a memorable farewell at the Tiraz Center, an architectural gem in Amman. This venue features an extensive collection of Palestinian, Jordanian, and other Arab costumes dating from the 19th and 20th centuries, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. Enjoy the elegance of this contemporary setting as you reflect on the experiences shared during your journey.
Day 21: Amman
1 Breakfast
Say farewell as you transfer to Amman airport, taking wonderful memories with you.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$16,000
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Select a Date
Nile Deck Cabin
55.8 ft². Twin or King beds. A/C, window, private bath with shower & hairdryer, satellite TV & in-house movies, and mini-bar.
Select a Date
Promenade Deck Cabin
55.8 ft². Twin or King beds. A/C, window, private bath with shower & hairdryer, satellite TV & in-house movies, and mini-bar.
Select a Date
Presidential Suite
95.1 ft². Queen bed. A/C, window, private bath with bathtub & hairdryer, satellite TV & in-house movies, and mini-bar.
Select a Date
Royal Suite
118.1 ft² Twin or King beds. A/C, window, private bath with bathtub & hairdryer, satellite TV & in-house movies, and mini-bar.
Notes
All Prices are per person, twin share and include taxes and surcharges. Single supplement pricing available upon request.
Initial deposit is 20%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
20 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 13 Dinners
20 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Wifi
Porterage
Port taxes and charges
All tipping and gratuities
Complimentary beverages
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
Passport or Visa fees
All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
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