Have questions? We're here.
Aswan, Egypt

Contrasts of Egypt & Jordan

Cairo - Amman - Example 24 Day Cruise aboard Sanctuary Sun Boat III
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Nile River trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Embark on a 24-day cruise from Cairo to Amman aboard the Sanctuary Sun Boat III. Explore Alexandria’s rich historical depth and Mediterranean character, from the discovery site of the Rosetta Stone in Rosetta to the pivotal World War II battlefields of El Alamein. Continue along the Nile through Egypt’s ancient cities, visiting the iconic pyramids and uncovering the enduring legacy of the pharaohs. Cross into Jordan, a meeting point of continents and cultures, where you can explore the remarkably preserved Roman ruins of Jerash and visit Bethany Beyond the Jordan, the site of Jesus’s baptism. View Madaba’s renowned mosaics and gain insight into the region’s spiritual heritage. Experience the stark beauty of Wadi Rum’s desert landscapes and stand before Petra’s iconic Treasury, carved into rose-red cliffs.
Citadel of AlexandriaThe pyramids of GizaProfile of the Great Sphinx of GizaView of the Mosque Sultan Hassan in Cairo and pyramidsBeautiful Egyptian CarvingsVisit the ruins of EgyptPetra temple treasury jordanAswan, Egypt
Highlights
  • Discover Alexandria’s vast Roman catacombs and cultural treasures
  • Visit El Alamein’s battle sites and World War II memorial museum
  • Marvel at Giza’s towering pyramids and the majestic Grand Museum
  • Explore Luxor’s Karnak Temple with colossal hieroglyphic columns
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
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.
0

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Cairo

Begin your journey in Cairo, Egypt’s dynamic capital and cultural epicenter. Explore its storied streets, home to the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Conclude your day in the comfort of a premium hotel, featuring exceptional amenities and panoramic views of the Nile during your overnight stay.

Day 2: Cairo | Alexandria

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner
This morning, board the air-conditioned express train to Alexandria, the historic Mediterranean city once ruled by Queen Cleopatra. Explore the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, the largest known Roman burial site in Egypt, with three subterranean levels carved from solid rock. Visit the striking Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern cultural landmark honoring the legacy of the ancient Library of Alexandria.

Check in to your luxury hotel for a two-night stay. In the evening, join your Tour Director for a welcome dinner, marking the beginning of an enriching journey.

Day 3: Alexandria

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
Discover Rosetta’s strategic significance in the Nile Delta, which made it a target for numerous invaders throughout history. Visit the Citadel of Qaitbay, where the famous Rosetta Stone was unearthed in 1799. This granodiorite stone, with its inscriptions, provided the first crucial clues to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs.

Continue your journey with a visit to the Greco-Roman Museum, founded in 1892, which boasts an impressive collection of Greek and Roman antiquities. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of the region.

Day 4: Alexandria | Giza (Cairo)

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Explore the historic battleground of El Alamein, the site of one of World War II’s defining battles. Visit the El Alamein War Museum, which houses extensive exhibits on the battle, and pay your respects at the Commonwealth Cemetery, a solemn tribute to the soldiers who fought there. Continue to Giza and enjoy a two-night Special Stay at your iconic hotel, offering stunning views of the Pyramids of Giza.

Sunset Drinks
Enjoy drinks and canapés as the sun sets over the magnificent pyramids.

Day 5: Giza

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
Witness the grandeur of the pyramids, towering monuments of ancient engineering, and stand before the enigmatic Sphinx, a 20-meter-high limestone marvel that has guarded these necropolis grounds for millennia. Venture into the Grand Egyptian Museum for an afternoon steeped in history, where you can explore the precious artifacts from King Tutankhamun’s tomb, offering insights into the young pharaoh’s life and legacy.

The Solar Boat exhibit is another highlight, featuring a meticulously restored cedar wood barge dating back to 2500 BC. This ancient vessel, discovered buried beside the Great Pyramid of Khufu, offers insight into the sophisticated craftsmanship and religious practices of the time, depicting how the Egyptians prepared their rulers for the afterlife.

Day 6: Giza | Luxor

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.

Day 7: Luxor

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.

Day 8: Luxor | Embark | Nile Cruise

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.

Day 9: Nile Cruise

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.

Day 10: Nile Cruise

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.

Day 11: Nile Cruise

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 that exemplifies the fusion of three great civilizations: Egyptian, Greek, and Roman. After your visit, relax with a leisurely felucca sail on the Nile, experiencing traditional Egyptian 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.

Day 12: Nile Cruise | Disembark | Aswan

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.

Day 13: Aswan

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.

Day 14: Aswan | Cairo

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 Civilisation, 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.

Day 15: Cairo

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: Discover Roda Island with stops at a 9th-century Nilometer and the Manial Palace Museum, highlighting Prince Muhammad Ali's era.

Day 16: Cairo | Dead Sea

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner
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 17: 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 deep sense of relaxation while indulging in this remarkable natural spa experience, enhanced by stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Sunset Drinks
Enjoy drinks and canapés as the sun sets over the magnificent Dead Sea.

Day 18: Dead Sea | Petra

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.

Day 19: Petra

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.

Day 20: Petra | Wadi Rum

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.

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.

Day 21: Wadi Rum | Amman

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 houses important landmarks such as 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.

Day 22: Amman

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.

Day 23: Amman

A transformative experience awaits you today as you visit Bethany Beyond the Jordan, the revered site where Jesus was baptised. This location offers profound historical and spiritual significance, featuring ancient churches, baptismal pools, and pilgrim sites, providing 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 houses an extensive collection of Palestinian, Jordanian, and other Arab costumes dating from the 19th and 20th centuries, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's cultural heritage. Enjoy the elegance of this contemporary setting as you reflect on the experiences shared during your journey.

Day 24: Amman

  • 1 Breakfast
Say farewell as you transfer to Amman airport, taking wonderful memories with you.

Ship/Hotel

Sanctuary Sun Boat III

Exterior 3
Cleopatra's Oasis
The Verandah

Amman - Hotels

Petra - Hotels

Cairo - Hotels

Luxor - Hotels

Aswan - Hotels

Wadi Rum - Campsites

Wadi Rum - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

  • Sep 8, 2025from $18,600
  • Oct 16, 2025from $20,200
<Sep 2025>
SMTWTFS
31123456
78910111213
14151617181920
21222324252627
2829301234
Deal available
Private Deal

Deals

Special Deals 27517
Book your Scenic Eclipse cruise for select 2025-2027 departures between April 1 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $2000 per suite on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 120 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $500 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to GP, OP, OT, SB, SA, S or P cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 120 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $250 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2027 Scenic Eclipse Cruises

Special Deals 27518
Book your Scenic River cruise for select 2025-2026 departures between April 1 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1,500 per suite on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $500 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to RP, RR, RO, R, RA, RD, RS or RJ cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 90 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $125 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2026 Scenic River Cruises

Holiday Deals 28346
Book your Scenic River cruise for select 2025-2026 departures between June 23 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1,750 per suite on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $500 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to RP, RR, RO, R, RA, RD or RS cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 90 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $125 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2026 Scenic River Cruises

Holiday Deals 28350
Book your Scenic Eclipse cruise for select 2025-2027 departures between June 23 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $4000 per suite on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 120 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $500 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to GP, OP, OT, SB, SA, S or P cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 120 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $250 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2027 Scenic Eclipse Cruises

Per person starting at
$18,600
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.
Included
  • 23 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 15 Dinners
  • 23 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

Map

Inquire

* By providing your phone number, you consent to receive direct phone calls or SMS messages from our Trip Planners to get the process started. We do not share your information with third-parties.
Change & customize to make it yours.
Travel Agents

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen

Top Nile River Travel Destinations

Nile River Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Nile River

Nile River Trips by Duration

Nile River Trips by Activity

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By