EGYPT, ISRAEL AND JORDAN

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Fully escorted small group tour with a maximum of 12 passengers

5 October to 29 October 2020 – 25 days

Come along with us on an incredible journey to three iconic destinations: intriguing Jordan with its ancient city of Petra and magical Dead Sea; the biblical holy land of Israel and retrace the steps of Jesus in Jerusalem, Nazareth, Bethlehem and the Sea of Galilee; spectacular Egypt to marvel at the great pyramids and sail the mighty Nile on a 7 night cruise.   This is a once in a lifetime adventure while travelling in 5 star luxury.

Our tours are exclusively for solo travellers 50+ so come and share the joy of travel with people just like you.

$24,890 per person twin

$31,890 per person single

Enquire for costs to upgrade to Business Class

 

SAVINGS

EARYBIRD - BOOK AND DEPOSIT BY 15 JANUARY 2020 AND SAVE $250

PAST PASSENGER DISCOUNT - IF YOU HAVE TRAVELLED WITH US BEFORE SAVE $150

2ND TOUR DISCOUNT - FOR YOUR 2ND TOUR IN ONE YEAR SAVE $250

 

Tour inclusions:

Return economy class airfares from Auckland on Emirates

All taxes and levies

5 star accommodation

Sightseeing as specified

7 night luxury Nile Cruise on River Tosca

Breakfast Daily

9 Lunches and 7 Dinners 

Gratuities

Services of a Tour Leader

 

Itinerary

Monday 5 October

After checking in at Auckland International Airport enjoy some relaxing time at the Emperors Lounge.  Tonight we depart Auckland at 8.30 pm and fly to Dubai. 

 

Tuesday 6 October

Early this morning we arrive in Dubai and are transferred to our hotel for immediate check-in.  Rest of the day at leisure.  One night Palace Hotel Downtown (Palace Lakeview Room), overlooking Burj Khalifa Lake and adjacent to Dubai Mall.

 

Wednesday 7 October

Early this morning we are transferred to the airport for our 7.30 am flight to Amman.  On arrival at 9.35 am we continue our journey and make our way to the spectacular sandstone city of Petra along the King's Highway, an ancient route that still has marks left from traders, armies and pilgrims who crossed it centuries ago and which was once part of the ancient Silk Road.  Along the way visit the Christian town of Madaba, known as ‘The City of Mosaics’ and the St. George Greek Orthodox Church, where you will see the masterpiece of Madaba, a Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land that goes back to the 6th century, showing Jerusalem and other cities.  We will then carry onto Mt. Nebo, which is considered to be one of the most important holy sites in Jordan, as it is believed to be the place where Moses climbed from the Valley of Moab, and from where God showed him the Promised Land, as well as Moses’ last resting place. It features ruins from the 4th to the 6th century with marvellous mosaics adorning the grounds of the church still visible. Continue south to our hotel in Petra. Two nights Movenpick Resort Petra (Superior Room), located directly at the entrance to the ancient city.  This resort with an oriental flair features an exciting combination of natural stone, handcrafted wood and Middle Eastern fabrics and textures.

 

Thursday 8 October

Today is all about exploring the ancient city of Petra, aptly described as the “rose-red city, half as old as time”, founded by the Nabateans 2000 years ago. Its massive architectural structure and its multi-coloured stones are an incredible attraction. The visit of the ancient Nabatean capital starts on horseback (optional), followed by a walk through the Siq, a long narrow fissure between two overhanging cliffs. Towards the end of the Siq, you will be spellbound by Petra's most famous monument; the Treasury. The tour then proceeds to gradually unfold the mysteries of the city.

 

Friday 9 October

This morning we make our way to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on the surface of earth, for a swim in its warm salty water. Rest of the day at leisure.  Two nights Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea (Superior Room), overlooking the waters of the Dead Sea and featuring a private stretch of sandy beach

 

Saturday 10 October

Today is free to enjoy this relaxing location. 

 

Sunday 11 October

This morning we depart the Dead Sea and make our way to Amman and enjoy a city tour of Amman visiting the ruins of the Amman Roman theatre, the Citadel, Umayyad Palace as well as the Archaeological and Folklore Museums. Spend some free time walking/shopping in the old down town area of the city before arriving at our hotel.  One night Intercontinental Amman Hotel (Deluxe Room), an iconic landmark, located atop one of the seven hills of Amman and close to the city centre.

 

Monday 12 October

This morning we depart Amman and make our way to  the Greco-Roman City of Jerash, also known as the City of the thousand columns. Jerash showcases the grandeur of Imperial Rome (and is sometimes referred to as the Pompeii of the East).  It is considered one of the largest and most well preserved sites of Roman architecture in the world outside Italy. As the most pristine Decapolis City (meaning ten cities in Greek) in the modern world, Jerash’s prosperity can be admired in the colonnaded main street and lovely Oval Piazza.  We will then make our way to the border crossing and say goodbye to Jordan and hello to Israel.  After border formalities we then travel to Tiberias on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.  On the way our guide will discuss the Israeli Palestinian conflict, current events in the Middle East and the delicate and fragile relations between Israel and Jordan.  Two nights U Boutique Hotel (U Deluxe Panorama Rooms), located on the Sea of Galilee with its own private beach.

 

Tuesday 13 October

Today we explore the Christian sites around the Sea of Galilee, beginning with a visit to Capernaum, where Jesus performed many of his miracles.  Capernaum became his home and the Bible calls it Jesus’ “own city” and it is where he met five of his future disciples – James, John, Peter, Andrew and Matthew.  We then travel to the Mount of Beatitudes, believed to be the setting for Jesus’ most famous discourse, the Sermon on the Mount, and is one of the most beautifully serene places in the Holy Land.  Overlooking the north western shore of the Sea of Galilee, it offers an enchanting vista of the northern part of the lake and across to the cliffs of the Golan Heights on the other side.  We then head to tranquil Tabha, best known for Christ’s miraculous multiplication of loaves of bread and fish to feed a multitude. We then visit Magdala, the birth place of Mary Magdalene, and where a first century synagogue and a complete first century city have been found.  We then drive to Beit Shean for lunch at an Israeli home with a Moroccan Jewish family who will tell us their family history of living Jewish life in Morocco for hundreds of years, leaving their home in Morocco and moving to Israel, the land that they have dreamed of for hundreds of years.  We finish the day with a relaxing cruise on the Sea and Galilee and get a new and different perspective on the ministry of Christ.  The boat is a replica of the same style of boat that were used by fishermen on the Sea of Galilee 2000 years ago.

 

Wednesday 14 October

Today we make our way to Jerusalem.  On the way we explore Nazareth, Caesarea Maritima and make a short stop in Haifa to enjoy the view from Mt Carmel over the Bahai Gardens.  Our first stop is Nazareth, the boyhood home of Jesus, and where the angel Gabriel visited Mary at the well announcing the upcoming birth of Jesus.  We will visit the Church of the Annunciation, built atop Byzantine and Crusader churches, marking the traditional location of Joseph and Mary’s home.  We will also be able to stroll by Mary’s Well and visit the Orthodox Church of St Gabriel, built over the original village spring.  We then move on to Haifa, Israel’s third largest city and beautifully set on the slopes of Mount Carmel facing the Mediterranean Sea. We will visit the lookout over Baha’i Gardens, where we will learn how Haifa became the world centre of the Baha’i religion.  We then carry on to the ancient port city of Caesarea Maritima built by Herod the Great.  It served as an administrative centre of Judaea Province of the Roman Empire, and later the capital of the Byzantine Palaestina Prima province during the classic period.   On arrival in Jerusalem enjoy a traditional “Shehecheyanu” ceremony including blessing over bread and wine as we watch the sun setting over the Old City.   Three nights David Citadel Hotel (Superior Rooms), overlooking the old city of Jerusalem

 

Thursday 15 October

Today we explore Old Jerusalem with our first stop being to ascend the Temple Mount to get a sense of the traditions and significance of the Dome of the Rock and the Al Aqsa Mosque.  We then make our way to the Mount of Olives to get a magical view over the Old City and our guide will discuss the religious importance of Jerusalem to all three Abrahamic religions.  We then walk down the Palm Sunday Road to the Garden of Gethsemane and see ancient olive trees as well as the beautiful church of All Nations where the stone of Agony of Christ is on display.  Enter the Old City through the Lion’s Gate and walk along the Via Dolorosa to the Christian Quarter and Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the traditional site of the crucifixion and burial of Jesus, and the traditional site of Golgotha.  We will visit the City of David, the historic nucleus of Jerusalem and discover the mysteries buried in the city that was established 3,000 years ago by King David.  From there, we will head to the Southern Wall Excavations including the steps leading to the ancient Temple and the site where Jesus overturned the money changers’ tables.  We then visit the Western Wall, also called the Wailing Wall, a place of prayer and pilgrimage sacred to the Jewish people. It is the only remains of the Second Temple of Jerusalem, held to be uniquely holy by the ancient Jews and destoyed by the Romans in 70 CE. The authenticity of the Western Wall has been confirmed by tradition, history, and archaeological research; the wall dates from about the 2nd century BCE, though its upper sections were added at a later date.   Tonight explore the history of Jerusalem in a one of a kind Light Show in the Tower of David, an ancient fortress dating back to the era of the crusaders.  We will be surrounded by lights and sound projected on the walls of the ancient fortress that will take you on the historical journey of Jerusalem.

 

Friday 16 October

This morning we head to Yad Vashem, Israel’s memorial museum for the victims of the Holocaust.  It is a difficult but most powerful visit that documents the Holocaust as no other museum or memorial in the world.  We will visit the Children’s Memorial, the Avenue of the Righteous Among the Nations, the Valley of the Lost Communities, and of course, the museum itself culminating in the Hall of Names.  We then enjoy a short tasting tour through the Machane Yehuda fresh produce market.  Hear the stories of the many different ethnic backgrounds of the vendors who bring their wares to the market and see the influence from the incredible diversity of cultures.  We then cross into the Palestinian Authority for a visit to Bethlehem. Our visit will include the “Walled Off Hotel” designed by the famous graffiti artist Banksi, The Graffiti Gallery on the Security Fence and The Church of Nativity, a major Christian holy site, as it marks the traditional place of Jesus’s birth.

 

Saturday 17 October

This morning we are transferred to the airport for our 12.05 pm flight to Cairo.  On arrival in Cairo we are transferred to our hotel and begin an 11 day Insight Vacations Luxury Gold adventure including time in Cairo and a 7 night Nile cruise.  This evening get to know our fellow guests over a welcome drink at the hotel.  Two nights Mena House Hotel (Pyramid View), set at the base of the Pyramids. 

 

Sunday 18 October

Today we will delve into the country’s fascinating history and firstly head for one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the great Pyramids of Giza. Venture inside the Pyramids and visit their guardian Sphinx. Built for Pharaoh Khufu between 2560 and 2540 BCE, the Great Pyramid was the tallest man-made structure in the world until 1311.  Afterwards, visit the Egyptian Museum, to witness the priceless treasures recovered from the Tomb of Tutankhamun. Continue to Sakkara, to see the Step Pyramid of King Zoser, the oldest in the world, dating back to 2700 B.C. Nearby lies Memphis, the famous capital of ancient Egypt. See the colossal statue of Ramses II and the great Alabaster Sphinx. Later, return to Giza as night falls to attend a mesmerising Sound & Light Show at the world-famous Pyramids.

 

Monday 19 October

Early this morning we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Luxor. Famed for its ancient treasures and the grandeur of its monuments, this beautiful city is a treasure trove for those looking to delve further into Egypt’s grand history. On arrival, have lunch and unwind before heading to Karnak. The largest temple complex ever built by man, this striking complex was constructed over a period of 1,500 years. Walk through the avenue of ram-headed sphinxes, past the statue of Rameses II, to stand in awe among the huge columns of the vast Hypostyle Hall. Later, board our luxury cruise ship, one of the most stylish and spacious in Egypt. The all-suite River Tosca provides a relaxing and comfortable setting for guests as we cruise the legendary Nile River. Featuring a stylishly adorned lounge, with full-service bar, a cosy library, restaurant, fitness rooms and swimming pool, we’ll take in the sights in the utmost luxury. In the evening, enjoy an onboard gala reception and dinner.  Seven nights River Tosca (Grand Suite with French Balcony - Pharaoh Deck)

 

Tuesday 20 October

This morning we head to the Temple of Hathor.  Built in the 1st century B.C., it remains one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt and contains a rare depiction of Cleopatra VII and Caesarian, her son with Julius Caesar. Return to Luxor for some leisure time before an exclusive, after hours visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Temple of Luxor. Founded in 1400 B.C. during the Golden Age of Thebes, the temple complex blends in seamlessly with surrounding city.

 

Wednesday 21 October

Today we travel to the West Bank of the Nile. Stop for photos at the Colossi of Memnon – these gigantic twin stone statues of Amenhotep III once guarded his mortuary temple. Venture on to the amazing Temple of Hatshepsut, Egypt's first female pharaoh who ruled from 1479 to 1458 B.C. It has only recently been reopened after years of reconstruction. Next we head to the Valley of the Kings, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and the burial place of Tutankhamun, whose mummified remains are still on display. Later, experience a warm welcome as we meet a local family and take a tour of their village. As we stroll through the streets, hear stories of local life and the importance of family contribution, ensuring all members of the village are looked after. Part of this is the baking of traditional sun bread, where each group of families in the village will have their own bakery oven. A member from each group is chosen to be the assigned baker to provide bread to the community. Watch as the family demonstrates the bread making process and enjoy a taste of the delicious bread, paired perfectly with a cup of warm tea. In the evening, join in the fun at an Egyptian dinner and a lively galabeya party.

 

Thursday 22 October

Today stretch out on a Nile felucca, a traditional sailboat, for a peaceful ride around Kitchener's Island. Known for the Aswan Botanical Garden and its tropical plants and palm trees, this petite island is less than a kilometre long. Later we visit the unique double-temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to both the crocodile-headed Sobek and the falcon god, Horus the Elder. In this sacred place near the riverbank, captive crocodiles were worshipped in life and mummified after death. Back on board, relax and enjoy a visual feast as you cruise along the Nile to Aswan and tonight enjoy an Egyptian belly dancing performance.

 

Friday 23 October

Sightseeing today includes a visit to the modern Aswan High Dam and the ancient Granite Quarries, where one of Queen Hatshepsut's obelisks lies abandoned in the bedrock. Cross the Nile by motorboat to the well-preserved Philae temple complex. Revered by locals, it was moved stone-by-stone to its current location to avoid being ruined by rising water levels, following the construction of the High Dam. Next, take a small boat along the banks of the Nile with the birdman of Asman. Keep a look out for colourful native birds as you travel to his small Nubian village. Visit the traditional dwelling of a local family and enjoy Nubian-style hospitality as you learn more about the area's unique culture. In the late afternoon, join the likes of Winston Churchill and Agatha Christie before you, with a colonial-style high tea at the Old Cataract Hotel. Sit back and relax as you enjoy delicious food, great company and a breathtaking sunset. Tonight savour a Highlight Dinner accompanied by a Nubian folklore show and live music.

 

Saturday 24 October

This morning is at your leisure. Perhaps relax by the pool onboard the River Tosca, head out to explore the local area or take an optional air tour to Abu Simbel.  These extraordinary temples were carved out of the cliff side by Rameses II and later transported, in an amazing feat of modern engineering, out of the rising waters of Lake Nasser.  This afternoon we begin our return voyage along the Nile River, lined by a green ribbon of fertile land and watch the arid desert beyond pass us by. The river continues to play a vital role in everyday life and in scenes that have hardly changed for centuries, residents swim, bathe, work and play along its shores while water buffalo graze in nearby fields.

 

Sunday 25 October

Today we start our day with a visit to Esna Temple. Situated in the centre of Esna, this fascinating and highly decorated building is dedicated to the ram-headed God Khnum, the God of creation. Built between 180 and 45 BC, you can still see the well-preserved carvings that the Romans added in the 3rd century AD. Later, visit Esna Lock before sitting back and observing everyday life in rural Egypt as you float downstream to Luxor, often referred to as the world’s greatest open air museum.  Tonight indulge in a delicious Celebration Dinner on the River Tosca.

 

Monday 26 October

This morning we fly to Cairo where we’ll visit the towering Alabaster Mosque, commissioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha between 1830 and 1848. Enjoy incredible hilltop views over the city from the imposing Citadel of Salah El Din. This massive 12th century compound was home to Egypt's rulers for more than seven hundred years. Next, wander the streets of Khan el-Khalili, a major souk in the historic centre of Islamic Cairo, where you will be dazzled by the colourful and lively atmosphere.  One night Four Seasons at the First Residence built to attract the nobility of Europe, and over the years it has been home to Howard Carter, Jane Fonda, King Farouk as well as many crown princes and princesses.

 

Tuesday 27 October

This morning is free to relax or explore more of Cairo before our transfer early this afternoon to the airport for our 4.15 pm flight to Dubai.  One night Dubai International Hotel (Executive Rooms) located inside the terminal building.

 

Wednesday 28 October

Depart Dubai at 10.05 am to Auckland

 

Thursday 29 October

Arrive Auckland 11.05 am

 

All prices are in New Zealand dollars.  Prices are  based on payment by cash, eftpos, cheque or direct deposit only.  A surcharge of 2% applies for payment by Visa or Mastercard.  If you would prefer to share a room we will endeavour to match you up with someone of the same gender.  If we cannot, you would be required to pay the single price.  A non-refundable deposit of $3,500 per person is due at time of booking.  Balance due 13 July 2020.  Costs are based on a group of 12 passengers.  If the group falls below this number World Travellers Remuera reserves the right to cancel the tour in which case a full refund would be given.  This would be known at least 3 months prior to departure.  Once paid the full amount is non-refundable.

Please note:  A reasonable level of fitness is required for this tour