Jordan to Egypt: Nabateans & Pharaohs

Two historic lands, two world wonders (one new, one old) and countless adventures along the way – this trip across Jordan and Egypt explores the best of these fascinating countries. We’ll take in the cliff-carved Nabatean ruins at Petra, the wild desert of Wadi Rum, the salty waters of the Dead Sea, the Valley of the Kings and the iconic Giza pyramids. Along the way we’ll sail the Nile in a traditional felucca, sample local cuisine and pause at a few less visited spots that most travellers pass right by.

We spend two nights in a three-star hotel in Amman, one night in a desert camp in Wadi Rum, two nights in a three-star hotel in Petra, two nights in a four-star hotel in Cairo, one night on a sleeper train from Cairo to Aswan, one night in a simple lodge at Abu Simbel, one night in a four-star hotel in Aswan, two nights in a four-star hotel in Luxor and a final night in another three-star hotel in Cairo.



Star ratings in Jordan and Egypt are generally not comparable to Western classifications, particularly in Cairo where infrastructure is often dated.



Tolip, Aswan:







Wadi Rum camp: The private camp is for the sole use of Exodus groups and offers an unforgettable experience under desert skies. A traditional dinner, cooked underground is included. The traditional-style tents are equipped with beds, sheets and blankets. There are plumbed toilets and basins, and simple shower facilities with (limited) hot water.



Hotels in Petra: Accommodation in Wadi Musa (the town adjacent to Petra archaeological site) is limited and demands on infrastructure are high; this can create problems with hot water and plumbing. In general, the hotels are of an older style and more basic in comparison to the rest of Jordan. Hotels we use include Petra Icon Hotel, Petra Plaza, Edom Hotel and La Maison among others. Some hotels are closer to the entrance to Petra than others. When not within walking distance of the Petra entrance, a transfer to/from the entrance is provided (typically a 10-minute drive).



Cairo to Aswan sleeper train: The train is a good way to cover a long distance in a time-efficient manner and avoids the need for a domestic flight. Compartments are compact and have bunk beds. Bedding is provided. The train tends to shake due to the condition of the track and is quite noisy. Earplugs are a good idea. A basic dinner and breakfast are provided, you may wish to take snacks with you. There is a shared toilet on each carriage.



Accommodation in Abu Simbel: We usually stay in a simple Nubian-owned, traditional style lodge in Abu Simbel. This is a great way to get a taste of the Nubian lifestyle and support the people. Mosquito netting is provided, though insect repellent can prove useful.



Eskaleh Nubian Ecolodge, Abu Simbel:



   



Single supplements: Available for this trip; except in Wadi Rum (1 night) and on the sleeper train (1 night).