Encounters Travel is offering 130+ trips and tours with a total of 5+ customer reviews. Tour durations range from 2 to 25 days and offering discounts up to 25%.
This 15-day tour of Rajasthan explores one of India's most popular and interesting states, famous for its hilltop forts, camel fairs and colourful saris and stays in some lovely heritage hotels converted from old havelis and palaces. We start the trip by exploring the contrasting sides to India's capital with tours of both New and Old Delhi, before heading to Agra where the Taj Mahal is our next highlight. This monument to love is a spectacular building with a tragically romantic story behind its construction. We’ll visit it at sunrise, and also from an unusual vantage point on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River where we take a walk through farm fields and homesteads with a local village guide.
Next we'll spend a night in rural Rajasthan, staying in a converted palace in a small village close to the town of Hinduan.
We'll also have the opportunity to explore the Rajasthan's capital of Jaipur, before heading to Ranthambore National Park where we'll have two included game drives, staying on the lookout for the elusive Bengal Tiger.
As we head further in to Rajasthan, next on the agenda is the holy lakside town of Pushkar, home to the worlds only Brahman Temple. We'll spend time in Jodhpur which is a classic Rajasthani town, with a large fort dominating a hill overlooking the town, but it is especially famous for its blue painted houses and streets. We'll then head to Udaipur, stopping along the way to see the beautiful white marble Jain temples at Ranakhpur.
The last city we'll visit, before returning to Delhi is a real gem, the lakeside city of Udaipur, one of Rajasthan's most attractive cities. Here, we'll visit its top attractions, such as the city palace, gardens and a boat trip on Lake Pichola. Our time in India comes to an end with a sleeper train journey back to Delhi.
The accommodations used on this tour have been carefully selected and include a home-stay style hotel whilst in Delhi, a modern property in Agra and heritage hotels in Jaipur, Hinduan, Ranthambore, Pushkar, Jodhpur & Udaipur.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Sleeper Train, Home-stay
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
New Delhi, Tordi, Keoladeo Ghana
New Delhi, Tordi, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Agra, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Pushkar, Jaipur
Spend the first 7 days of this tour exploring Lebanon, located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. Though small, Lebanon is rich with history, culture and was the site of some of the world's oldest human settlements.
On this tour, you will visit the great Phoenician cities of Tyre and Sidon. You will see Byblos, the oldest continually inhabited city in the world, and the City of the Sun, the most well-preserved temple complex in the Middle East.
This Lebanon tour is also perfect for lovers of nature and scenery. You will see several natural phenomena, including the Ksara Caves, Rock of Raouche, the Baatara Gorge Waterfall, and the Jeita Grotto. You will visit the birthplace of the renowned poet Khalil Gibran and see the famous Lebanon cedar trees, mentioned in the Old Testament.
In Jordan our journey begins in Amman, where we'll explore the city's downtown area, including the Citadel and Roman Theatre, and sample local cuisine. We'll then head north to As-Salt for a walking tour showcasing the harmony between its Muslim and Christian communities.
Heading south, we'll stop at the Dana Biosphere Reserve for a short hike around the restored Dana Village. Next, you'll have free time in Aqaba to relax, explore reefs, or take a boat trip.
Our adventure continues into the Wadi Rum desert, where we'll spend the night in a Bedouin camp and embark on a jeep safari through sand dunes and past rock bridges. We'll also learn about the nomadic lifestyle of local Bedouin shepherds.
Next, we'll visit the iconic Petra, entering via the less-crowded back-route hike. We'll explore Little Petra before embarking on a mountain trail to the Monastery and main site, enjoying incredible views of the Holy Land.
Our journey then takes us along the scenic Dead Sea road, offering stunning views of the salt flats. We'll stop at Wadi Mujib for a day of hiking, climbing waterfalls, and swimming in the salty waters of the Dead Sea. On our final day, we'll visit the Roman mosaics at Madaba, enjoy views of Jericho and Israel from Mt. Nebo, and explore the well-preserved Roman site of Jerash.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This week long tour to Egypt and Jordan takes you to some of the most popular attractions in both of these beautiful countries, with activities and experience geared to giving you an authentic Middle Eastern experience.
The Egypt leg stays in Cairo, as we explore its Great Pyramids, Sphinx and Egyptian Museum, along with a day in beautiful Old Cairo.
The Jordan leg of the tour takes you to the lowest place on earth at the Dead Sea for a swim and float in its incredibly salty waters.
We'll explore the hills around the restored Dana village amidst the Dana Biosphere Reserve en-route to Jordan's biggest highlight, the hidden city of Petra. After spending some time in the rose-red city, we'll head into the Wadi Rum Desert, where we'll camp underneath the stars with the local Bedouins, learning about their nomadic desert lifestyle.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
There is no city in the world like Cairo. It has been the largest city in Africa and the Middle East for 750 years and has been attractive to tourists throughout the ages. This short tour gives you a taste of Egypt's bustling capital city and home to the Pyramids, Sphinx and Egyptian Museum, and is ideal for those short of time or who may have visited other parts of Egypt already.
The tour begins with a guided sightseeing tour to Egypt's most well-known landmark - the Great Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx and learn about the history and evolution of pyramid building. Next we explore the sprawling Egyptian Museum of antiquities with it's famous Tutunkhamun display.
Your next day is then free to explore independently, relax in your hotel or take an additional tour. These include a city tour to the Citadel, Coptic Cairo and the Khan-el-Khalili bazaar, a day trip to the colonial Mediterranean city of Alexandria, or a tour to see more pyramids at Dashour, Saqqara and Memphis. Dinner cruise and felucca trips on the Nile are also available.
Discover Morocco's vibrant cities, ancient villages, and the breathtaking Sahara Desert on this 9-day adventure. Explore Marrakech, Fes, Chefchaouen, Casablanca and Rabat, immerse yourself in rich culture, and experience the magic of a camel trek under desert sky.
Your Moroccan adventure kicks off in Marrakech, the vibrant "Red City." After a smooth airport transfer, you'll have time to relax and settle in at your hotel before meeting your fellow travelers. Over the next couple of days, you'll traverse the majestic High Atlas Mountains and explore the wonders they hold. Discover the ancient, UNESCO-listed village of Ait Benhaddou, a backdrop for countless films, and visit Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of North Africa," where you can tour renowned film studios. You'll then journey through the fragrant Roses Valley to Boumalne Dades.
The tour takes a dramatic turn as you venture into the awe-inspiring Todra Gorge and then witness the magic of the Sahara Desert. A camel trek across the golden sands under the setting sun will be an unforgettable memory. Enjoy a night under the desert stars in a traditional Berber camp, complete with local cuisine and music.
Leaving the desert, you'll travel through the palm-filled Ziz Valley, cross the Atlas Mountains once more, and witness playful monkeys in the Cedar Forest. Your next stop is Fes, Morocco's oldest imperial city, where a guided tour will immerse you in the heart of its bustling medina. You'll witness traditional craftsmanship, and have the option of a delightful Moroccan feast accompanied by traditional music and dance.
The picturesque "Blue Pearl" of Chefchaouen is next, a town nestled in the Rif Mountains and known for its stunning blue and white architecture. Journey south to Rabat, Morocco's official capital, where you'll explore iconic landmarks, including the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum. Continue to Casablanca and opt for a visit to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque. Your final stop is back in Marrakech, where you can relax or explore at your own pace before your farewell.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
5-85 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Marrakech, Ouargla, Casablanca
Marrakech, Ouargla, Casablanca, Volubilis, Fes, Merzouga, Todra Gorges, Ait Benhaddou
This 9-day private tour explores the North of Morocco visiting ancient cities and ruins, colourful medinas, spiritual centres and beautiful mountain scenery. You'll see Morocco's 4 historical Imperial Cities, Marrakech, Rabat, Meknes and Fes, and also explore the Roman ruins at Volubilis, the largest ancient site in the country. Our English speaking guides will help bring these historic places to life, and also immerse you in the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of modern Morocco.
Other highlights on the tour are the beautiful and atmospheric northern towns of Chefchaouen and Tangier. The bright white and blue painted medina at Chefchaouen is unforgettable, and Tangier's location on the Strait of Gibraltar where it acts as a gateway between Europe and Africa makes it a melting pot of different cultures and atmospheres.
Add to this time travelling through the beautiful Rif Mountains and you have a great introduction to Morocco to enjoy. In particular if you like exploring the narrow alleys, markets and bazaars in traditional old medinas and souqs, then this is the tour for you with Fes, Marrakech and Chefchaouen having fantastic examples to discover.
Accommodation is in comfortable mid-range hotels, with options available to extend the tour at either end if you wish.
This 11-day tour of Nepal offers a diverse and immersive experience, combining cultural exploration, natural beauty, and thrilling adventures. Starting in Kathmandu, you'll delve into the city's rich heritage with rickshaw rides, visits to ancient temples and squares, and a taste of local cuisine.
Venturing beyond the capital, you'll encounter the wildlife wonders of Chitwan National Park, embarking on jungle walks, river safaris, and jeep excursions in search of rhinos, elephants, and other fascinating creatures. A captivating Tharu dance performance adds a cultural touch to your jungle experience.
The journey continues to the charming hilltop village of Bandipur, where you'll wander through restored streets, hike to hidden caves, and soak in panoramic mountain views. The lakeside town of Pokhara awaits, offering a tranquil retreat with boat rides, hikes, and glimpses of the Annapurna range.
From Pokhara, you'll travel to Kurintar, where you can choose between an adrenaline-pumping rafting experience on the Trishuli River or a scenic cable car ride to the revered Manakamana Temple.
As the tour progresses, you'll witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot, followed by a cultural immersion in Bhaktapur, with its ancient architecture and pottery lessons. The spiritual heart of Nepal unfolds with visits to the sacred sites of Pasupatinath and Boudhanath, providing a deeper understanding of the country's religious traditions.
If you're looking for a more active tour, you may consider our Classic Nepal Tour, which follows a similar itinerary with the addition of a 5-day trek in the Annapurna Mountain range.
Private tour option
If our scheduled departure dates don't work for you, or you would prefer not to travel with a group, then we can also run this Nepal tour package privately for you. Please contact us for more information and prices.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House, Home-stay
Age Range
8-75 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park
Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park, Bandipur, Pokhara
Enjoy an intimate experience while exploring Morocco on this 10-day private tour through the country's fascinating northern towns, cities and countryside.
Starting and finishing in the exotic city of Marrakech allows plenty of time to discover its markets, souqs and to visit the amazing Djemaa el-Fna square at night. You'll also see 3 of Morocco's other Imperial Cities, visiting the old city in Rabat, the walled Berber town of Meknes, and taking a full day to explore the huge medina at Fes. Other highlights include ancient Moulay Idriss, the spiritual town of Ouazanne, Roman ruins at Volubilis, and the contrasting but equally atmospheric northern towns of Chefchaouen and Tanjier.
Combining all these experiences with beautiful scenery in the Rif mountains, several coastal towns, and the tastes and experiences of modern Morocco brought to life for you by your guide, makes for an unforgettable way to discover Morocco.
Accommodation is in comfortable mid-range hotels, with options available to extend the tour at either end if you wish. You an also upgrade the hotel level to 4 or 5 star or a selection of boutique riads. Pricing is based on 2 people travelling, sharing a twin/double room. Please contact us for customised pricing if you have a larger party.
Embark on an extraordinary 15-day adventure through the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia. This itinerary blends cultural exploration, culinary discovery, and natural wonders, offering an unforgettable travel experience.
Your journey begins in Hanoi, a city of history and flavour. Explore iconic landmarks and take a guided street food tour through the Old Quarter. Next, sail through the breathtaking limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay on an overnight junk boat cruise, with options for kayaking and an onboard cooking class. You'll then travel by sleeper train to Hue, the former imperial capital, and Hoi An, a charming UNESCO-listed ancient town where you'll make and release your own lanterns.
From there, you'll delve into the authentic local life of the Mekong Delta, where you can try your hand at catching fish for your own dinner. The final leg of the journey takes you across the border into Cambodia. First, you will visit the poignant capital of Phnom Penh and then travel to Siem Reap. Here, you'll embark on a full-day exploration of the magnificent temples of Angkor, the majestic heart of the ancient Khmer Empire. This two-week odyssey is a deep and meaningful encounter with two of Southeast Asia’s most captivating nations.
Throughout this journey, your comfort and a commitment to sustainable travel are paramount. Your accommodation includes 4-star hotels, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. For a truly authentic experience, you'll also spend a night at a sustainable eco-lodge in the Mekong Delta, a night on a traditional junk boat in Ha Long Bay, and another on an overnight sleeper train for a classic travel experience. This trip is designed to not only showcase the region's highlights but also to support local communities, with sustainable tourism elements woven into the itinerary. This two-week odyssey is a deep and meaningful encounter with two of Southeast Asia's most captivating nations
Local culture
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This comprehensive tour of Nepal takes you on a journey across one of the most spectacularly beautiful countries in the world. Amazing mountain scenery mixed with lush, wildlife rich jungles, ancient hilltop villages stand in contrast to the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu.
Our 15-day tour begins with a walking tour of Kathmandu before we drive to Chitwan National Park in the lowland Terai region of Nepal, close to the Indian border. There's an option available today to do an afternoon of exciting white water rafting on the Trisuli river, en-route to the park. We have two nights at a wildlife lodge at Chitwan, and enjoy a range of activities in the park, including a jungle walk, traditional river canoe trip and jeep safari. Outside the park we'll take a rural village walk to see how the local Tharu people live, and an early morning bird watching walk is also available for those keen. Chitwan is famous for its population of Asian rhinos, and there are also numerous other animals and birds to see including several species of deer and monkeys, wild boar, sloth bear, elephants, gharial and mugger crocodiles, and if you're very lucky you may catch a glimpse of a tiger too.
Next we head to the hilltop Newari town of Bandipur, the centre of which has been carefully restored and is well worth exploring. After some great mountain views from here we head to the lakeside town of Pokhara at the foot of the Annapurna range before starting a 5-day trek through the Himalayan foothills to the spectacular viewpoint of Poon Hill. We stay in locally owned trekking lodges and experienced guides and porters will accompany you on the trek. This is a moderate trek with a couple of long days and plenty of up and down, but you certainly don't need to be super-fit. You'll walk through a wide variety of landscapes and countryside including riverside trails, rhododendron forests, terraced farmland and grassy ridges, always enjoying different views of the mighty Annapurna range above you.
After a little free time to relax in Pokhara after the trek we return to Kathmandu and spend a night at the village of Nagarkot, perched on the rim of the Kathmandu Valley. After a morning sunrise and hopefully stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest in the far distance, we return to Kathmandu via Bhaktapur, where we take time to enjoy the wonderful, intricately carved, wooden architecture of the traditional Hindu temples and surrounding buildings. The tour then ends back in Kathmandu.
For those looking for a less active tour of Nepal, you may consider our Nepal Exposed tour, which follows a similar itinerary, but without the 5-day trek.
Private tour option
If our scheduled departure dates don't work for you, or you would prefer not to travel with a group, then we can also run this tour privately for you. Please contact us for more information and prices.
Rafting
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Home-stay
Age Range
8-75 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Tikhedhunga, Pokhara
Kathmandu, Tikhedhunga, Pokhara, Chitwan, Chitwan National Park, Bandipur, Ghandruk, Tadapani, Ghorepani
This 16-day tour offers a captivating journey through Egypt and Jordan, exploring ancient wonders, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes. You'll begin in Cairo, where you'll witness the iconic Pyramids of Giza and delve into Egyptian history at the renowned Egyptian Museum. But it's not just about the sights, you'll also have the opportunity to savour the local flavours. During your time in Cairo, a traditional Koshary lunch awaits. This beloved Egyptian dish is a delightful mix of rice, lentils, macaroni, and chickpeas, topped with a tangy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It's a true culinary adventure for your taste buds!
An overnight sleeper train then transports you to Aswan, the gateway to Nubian culture. Here, you'll visit the majestic Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, and experience the unique charm of a traditional Nubian village. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local life, surrounded by brightly painted houses adorned with symbolic patterns. Explore the bustling local markets, brimming with handcrafted souvenirs and aromatic spices, and in the evening, share a delicious home-cooked dinner with a Nubian family, savouring traditional dishes and enjoying their warm hospitality. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the Nubian people and their rich cultural heritage.
Next, you'll embark on a felucca sailing trip down the Nile, offering a tranquil and authentic perspective of rural Egyptian life. You'll continue to Luxor, exploring the magnificent Karnak and Luxor Temples, as well as the Valley of the Kings, before returning to Cairo for further exploration.
The journey then takes you from the shores of Egypt across the Red Sea to Jordan. You'll board a ferry that will transport you to the captivating desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Here, you'll spend a night in a Bedouin camp, enjoying traditional Jordanian cuisine like 'Zarb', a dish of lamb and chicken cooked underground in Bedouin style. The next day, embark on a jeep safari through the dramatic desert landscape, stopping to climb sand dunes and admire towering rock formations. You'll also have the chance to engage in authentic Bedouin activities, like walking with a shepherd, learning about sheep shearing, and even trying your hand at bread making.
From Wadi Rum, you'll journey to the lost city of Petra, exploring this ancient Nabataean wonder via a less-crowded back route that offers breathtaking mountain views. You'll also visit Little Petra and the Monastery, before descending into the heart of Petra to marvel at iconic sights like the Treasury. The adventure continues with a visit to the Dead Sea, where you can experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in its salty waters. You'll also hike the Siq Trail in Wadi Mujib, a thrilling gorge walk through shallow waters and past cascading waterfalls.
The tour concludes with explorations of Jordan's historical and religious sites, including the Byzantine mosaics of Madaba, Mount Nebo where Moses viewed the Promised Land, and the well-preserved Greco-Roman city of Jerash. After a final night in Amman, you'll depart with unforgettable memories of your journey through Egypt and Jordan.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Sleeper Train, Resort, Tent, Guest House
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cairo, Amman, Aswan, Luxor, Jera
Cairo, Amman, Aswan, Luxor, Jerash, Madaba, Petra, Wadi Rum
This comprehensive 14-day journey commences in Jordan's bustling capital, Amman. Your exploration delves into the country's rich history and culture, starting with visits to the unique hilltop town of As-Salt, a UNESCO site celebrated for its Ottoman architecture and interfaith harmony, and the magnificent Roman ruins of Jerash. Cultural immersion continues with an authentic 'Daily Life Trail' experience and lunch with a local family in As-Salt, plus a street food tasting in Amman. The itinerary then follows the historic King's Highway south, taking in the biblical sites of Madaba and Mount Nebo, and the Crusader-era Shobak Castle, before arriving at the phenomenal Nabataean city of Petra for a full day's exploration of its rock-carved wonders, including the iconic Treasury reached via the narrow Siq canyon.
Following the awe-inspiring Petra, the adventure leads into the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Here, you'll enjoy a thrilling jeep safari through the iconic scenery made famous by T.E. Lawrence and spend a night under the stars at a traditional Bedouin camp, experiencing renowned local hospitality and cuisine. The Jordanian leg concludes with a visit to the remarkable Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, offering a unique opportunity to float effortlessly in its mineral-rich waters. Throughout Jordan, optional activities enhance the experience, ranging from Petra by Night and cookery classes to various desert excursions in Wadi Rum and potential canyoning in Wadi Mujib (seasonal).
Transitioning to Egypt, you will travel from Amman to Cairo by air. It's worth noting that this flight is not included in the tour price, offering flexibility in booking, while the necessary airport transfers in both cities remain part of the service. The Egyptian adventure immediately immerses you in ancient history with a visit to the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx, complemented by a taste of local life with an included Koshary lunch. Travelling south via overnight train, you'll explore Aswan, visit the beautifully relocated Philae Temple on its island setting, and experience Nubian culture firsthand with a stay in a local village. A major highlight is sailing the Nile aboard a traditional felucca, offering a peaceful perspective on riverside life and including an overnight stay onboard (with hotel upgrade options available). An optional early morning trip to the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel is also offered.
Continuing north, the tour reaches Luxor, often described as the world's greatest open-air museum. Included tours cover the West Bank's Valley of the Kings, the impressive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the village of the tomb builders at Deir El-Medina, and the towering Colossi of Memnon. Optional excursions allow for exploration of the vast Karnak Temple complex and the beautifully illuminated Luxor Temple at night, along with potential hot air balloon rides over the ancient sites at sunrise. The trip utilises overnight trains for travel between Cairo and Upper Egypt (with sleeper upgrades available) before concluding back in Cairo, offering free time or optional final explorations, such as the Egyptian Museum or vibrant Khan el-Khalili bazaar, before your departure transfer.
Accommodation is in comfortable mid-range hotels, Bedouin tents with proper beds in Wadi Rum, a friendly local Nubian guesthouse in Aswan, plus one night on board the felucca sailboat on the Nile.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Sleeper Train, Tent, Resort
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cairo, Amman, Abu Simbel, Luxor
Cairo, Amman, Abu Simbel, Luxor, Petra, Jerash, Aswan
This 12-day adventure immerses you in the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of Nepal and Bhutan. Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where you'll explore the bustling streets of Thamel by rickshaw, wander through the historic Durbar Square, and marvel at the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa, affectionately known as the "monkey temple". From there, you'll take a breathtaking flight over the Himalayas to the mystical kingdom of Bhutan.
In Bhutan, you'll delve into centuries-old traditions and explore majestic fortresses known as dzongs. You'll witness the art of incense making, hike to sacred temples nestled in breathtaking valleys, and even experience the unique hospitality of a Bhutanese homestay. A highlight of your trip will be the challenging but rewarding hike to Taktsang Monastery, the iconic Tiger's Nest clinging to a sheer cliff face. This journey offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and spiritual exploration.
Returning to Nepal, you'll witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot, a picturesque village in the Kathmandu Valley. You'll then delve into the ancient city of Bhaktapur, with its well-preserved temples and traditional crafts, and even try your hand at pottery. The tour culminates with visits to significant religious sites in Kathmandu – the Hindu temple of Pasupatinath and the Buddhist Boudhanath stupa – offering a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Nepal. This itinerary promises an unforgettable experience filled with vibrant colors, ancient traditions, and breathtaking scenery.
For those looking for a longer adventure, featuring India, please see our Temples, Dzongs and Taj Tour
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Home-stay
Age Range
8-75 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Paro, Doch
Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Paro, Dochu La Pass, Gangtey Valley, Thimphu, Taktshang
We begin our journey in Amman, Jordan, with an arrival transfer and free time before we explore the ancient Roman city of Jerash and Amman's key historical sites, including the Citadel and Roman Theatre, the following day. Day two also includes a local street food experience and an evening visit to the Wild Jordan Centre. Our journey then continues south along the scenic King's Highway, where we stop at the historical sites of Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Shobak Castle en route to Petra. We dedicate an entire day to discovering the magnificent Nabataean city of Petra, walking through the Siq to marvel at the Treasury and exploring other tombs and monuments, with options like Petra by Night or a cookery class available to us the previous evening.
Following Petra, our adventure takes us into the striking desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, where we stay overnight at a Bedouin camp, complete with a traditional meal and an included Jeep safari the next morning; optional activities like camel rides or hot air ballooning are also offered. We conclude the Jordanian segment of our trip with a journey to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, where we have ample time to float in the hypersaline waters and experience the therapeutic mud, before we transfer to Amman airport on day six.
We then transition to Egypt with a flight from Amman to Cairo (note: this flight cost is not included). Upon arrival in Cairo, we begin our exploration with the iconic Giza Plateau, visiting the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx, followed by trips to the ancient capital Memphis and the Step Pyramid at Saqqara. An early flight takes us to Luxor, the ancient Thebes, where we explore the West Bank's treasures, including the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon, before boarding our 5-star Nile cruise ship. In the evening, we enjoy an illuminated tour of Luxor Temple. Our cruise continues with a visit to the vast Karnak Temple complex as we sail upstream towards Aswan, stopping at the well-preserved Temple of Edfu and the unique double temple of Kom Ombo along the way.
In Aswan, our highlights include an optional early morning excursion to the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel, taking a traditional Felucca sailboat ride on the Nile, visiting the relocated Philae Temple complex, and stopping at the Aswan High Dam. Afterwards, we fly back to Cairo for our guided tour of the world-renowned Egyptian Museum, home to Tutankhamun's treasures. Our final full day offers free time or an optional tour covering Coptic Cairo, the Citadel, and the Khan el-Khalili bazaar. We conclude our tour on day thirteen with free time in Cairo before our departure transfer to the airport.
Accommodation is in comfortable mid-range hotels in Jordan, Bedouin tents with proper beds in Wadi Rum, 5-star hotels in Cairo and a 5-star Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan.
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers