Cross-season pricing on request
Nile Cruise & Private Holiday
12 Days ex Cairo
Preferred Departure Day: Saturday (First Class | Deluxe Class)
Alternative Departure Days (supplements may apply):
First Class: Thursday - Blue Shadow Nile Cruise
Deluxe Class: Thursday - Sonesta Star Goddess Nile Cruise
First Class: Thursday - Blue Shadow Nile Cruise
Deluxe Class: Thursday - Sonesta Star Goddess Nile Cruise
Notes:
- Cruise itinerary featured is based on the First Class cruise ship. The day-by-day Nile Cruise itinerary may vary according to the cruise boat confirmed.
- Cruises may operate in reverse
- Supplement may apply for tours commencing on other days
Cairo Giza area (2) | Nile Cruise (4) | Cairo City (1) | Dead Sea (1) | Petra (2) | Amman (1)
Embark on a brief journey through Egypt and Jordan, unveiling the magic and mysteries of two extraordinary lands where history and culture intertwine. Sail the majestic Nile River on a captivating four-night cruise, the lifeblood of the country, while exploring the vibrant treasures of Cairo and its timeless monuments. Continue to Jordan on a private adventure, highlighted by the legendary Petra, the Rose-Red City carved into sheer rock over two millennia ago, and the serene beauty of the Dead Sea, where you float effortlessly in mineral-rich waters. Blending ancient wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable cultural experiences, this inspiring journey offers a rich and seamless passage through the heart of the ancient world.
Highlights:
- 24/7 service and full local backup from our seven regional offices in Egypt and Jordan
- A warm welcome with a personal meet and assist inside immigration, together with your Egyptian and Jordanian visa on arrival, followed by express immigration assistance
- Immerse yourself in the wonders of Cairo, expertly narrated by your private Egyptologist
- Unearth the mystique of the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic presence of the nearby Sphinx
- Marvel at the abundant treasures in the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
- Embark on a 4-Night Nile Cruise, journeying along the life-giving Nile from Luxor to Aswan and uncover the grandeur of Pharaonic temples and tombs
- Roam the magnificent temples of Luxor and Karnak, as well as the Valley of the Kings and Queens –bonus entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI included
- Sail around the enchanting islands of Aswan aboard a traditional felucca boat
- Float effortlessly in the Dead Sea – Experience the unique sensation of weightlessness as you drift in the mineral-rich waters, renowned for their healing properties
- Unveil the secrets of Petra – Walk through the dramatic Siq canyon and witness the breathtaking Treasury emerge before your eyes in the ancient Rose-Red City, once lost to time
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Cairo
Welcome to Egypt. On arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will be welcomed by our local Airport representative PRIOR to immigration who will assist you with your included Egyptian Visa. Your special fast track immigration service ensures priority access. After immigration clearance, you will be assisted with your luggage collection and customs control by our local team, then transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in the Giza area. You will be assisted with your hotel check-in then have the remainder of the day at leisure.
Optional (supplement applies): Upgrade to Pyramids view room
Day 2: Cairo (B)
A day to remember! Meet your private Egyptologist and embark on a full day sightseeing tour of the Pyramids, Sphinx and the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). Begin your day with a visit to the impressive site of the Pyramids whose construction began in 2690 BC. The Pyramids of Mycerinus, Chefren and the Great Pyramid of Cheops are the only survivors from the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Face the mystical Sphinx, reputedly used as target practice by Napoleon’s troops.
Optional (supplement applies): Take a Camel Ride across the sands of the desert with the Pyramids in the background.
A reservation is included for lunch (own expense) at the 9 Pyramids Lounge with stunning views overlooking the ancient Pyramids of Giza. This is a unique dining experience, unlike anything else in the world (payment for lunch to be made locally at the restaurant).
View the 9 Pyramids Lounge Facebook Page for more details: https://www.facebook.com/9PyramidsLounge
This afternoon, visit the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the world’s largest archaeological museum dedicated to one civilization, near the Great Pyramids of Giza. Spanning seven millennia, the GEM showcases over 100,000 artifacts of Egypt’s rich heritage. Enter to see the colossal statue of Ramses II in the grand atrium, then ascend the Grand Staircase, curated to reflect distinct eras of history. At the top, enjoy panoramic views of the Pyramids and explore the Tutankhamun Gallery, featuring over 5,000 treasures from the Boy King’s tomb. Continue through galleries revealing Egypt’s prehistoric roots, pharaohs, gods, and daily life along the Nile. Conclude with time to browse the museum’s shopping arcade or relax in its cafes.
Optional: For those interested in visiting Memphis and Sakkara, this option can be included in place of the visit to the GEM. Alternatively, you may like to extend your stay in Cairo to allow time to include visits to both of these incredible sites.
Optional (supplement applies): Top off an unforgettable day with an incredible evening attending the Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids
Day 3: Cairo – Luxor (BLD)
This morning you will be met at your hotel and transferred by private vehicle to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor. On arrival in Luxor embark on your cruise along the life-giving Nile. After lunch on board your cruise ship you will head out to explore one of the world’s most remarkable open-air museums - Thebes. Visit the magnificent Luxor Temple then follow the Avenue of the Sphinx to the Temple complex of Karnak. This gigantic site was added to by approximately 30 different Pharaohs over time, which goes some way to explaining its immense size and majestic grandeur. Dinner on board.
Day 4: Luxor - Esna (BLD)
Early this morning you will embark on a journey across the Nile to the West Bank, where a morning filled with remarkable sights awaits. Visit Thebes Necropolis and the burial ground of the Pharaohs – the Valley of the Kings, which houses the tombs of Theban Ruler’s, including the illustrious tomb of Tutankhamun. Next pay a visit to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and see the famed Colossi of Memnon facing the Nile. Innovative Travel Bonus: Entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI. Return to your cruise ship for lunch and set sail for Esna. This evening attend the Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Party, followed by dinner.
Day 5: Esna - Edfu - Kom Ombo (BLD)
Early this morning your ship will set sail for Aswan. After breakfast visit the High Dam, the Granite Quarries and the beautifully restored Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis (the mother of Horus). This remarkable temple was rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser at the time of the High Dam’s construction. Return for a leisurely lunch on board your cruise ship before setting off mid-afternoon to sail by traditional felucca around Kitchener’s Island with a view of the Agha Khan Mausoleum. This evening attend dinner and a Nubian folkloric show on board.
Day 6: Kom Ombo - Aswan (BLD)
Early this morning your ship will set sail for Aswan. After breakfast visit the High Dam, the Granite Quarries and the beautifully restored Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis (the mother of Horus). This remarkable temple was rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser at the time of the High Dam’s construction. Return for a leisurely lunch on board your cruise ship before setting off mid-afternoon to sail by traditional felucca around Kitchener’s Island with a view of the Agha Khan Mausoleum. This evening attend dinner and a Nubian folkloric show on board.
Day 7: Aswan – Cairo (B)
Optional (supplement applies): Half Day visit to Abu Simbel
The two temples of Abu Simbel are amongst the most magnificent monuments in the world and considered one of the most impressive archaeological sites in all of Egypt, not only for its historical significance, but also for the great engineering success in moving these temples to their present location. Explore the breathtaking temples, built by Pharaoh Ramses II—one honouring his reign, the other his beloved Queen Nefertari.
The half day optional tour includes flights Aswan/Abu Simbel/Aswan, meet and assist in Aswan and Abu Simbel, small group or private transfer to the temples, and priority entrance and guides.
Disembark from your cruise this morning after breakfast. You will be met and transferred by private vehicle to Aswan Airport for your flight to Cairo. On arrival at Cairo Airport, you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to your city hotel. Conveniently located in the centre of Cairo soak up the local culture and atmosphere. After a break for lunch, walk through Old Cairo with your Egyptologist. Start at Bab al-Futuh and stroll through al-Moez Street visiting and viewing the magnificent Islamic architectural heritage including mausoleums, mosques, Sabils (fountains), and medieval houses dating back to the Fatimid and Mamluk periods. If you wish, take a moment to reenergize with a refreshing beverage at Fishawy Café, an optional stop amidst the bustling Khan El Khalili bazaars.
Optional: There is the option today to replace your half day Cairo tour with the one of the following:
The new discoveries at Sakkara
A visit to the Museum of Ancient Civilisations
Day 8: Cairo - Amman (B)
This morning you will be transferred by private vehicle to Cairo Airport for your flight to Amman (economy class air tickets included).
Welcome to Jordan. Upon arrival at Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport, you will be greeted by our local representative, PRIOR to immigration, and assisted through immigration for a seamless entry into Jordan. You will then be transferred by private vehicle to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, where you’ll have the opportunity to float effortlessly in its mineral-rich waters—an unforgettable experience. The rest of the day is yours to relax and unwind, whether you choose to soak up the serene atmosphere, indulge in a spa treatment, or simply take in the breathtaking views of this unique natural wonder.
Day 9: Dead Sea - Petra (B)
This morning, depart the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea and journey by private vehicle along the storied King's Highway, one of the world’s oldest trade routes, where prophets, pilgrims, and caravans once travelled. Step into the past in Madaba, home to the celebrated mosaic map of the Holy Land, a masterpiece of early cartography. Continue to Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have gazed upon the Promised Land, before exploring the formidable crusader fortress of Kerak Castle, its ramparts echoing with medieval legend. By late afternoon, arrive in Petra, perhaps the most spectacular ancient city remaining in the modern world. Once the capital of the Nabataeans, its temples, tombs, and grand façades are carved directly into rose-red cliffs—an extraordinary setting that promises timeless wonders awaiting discovery.
Day 10: Petra (B)
Begin your day exploring Petra’s breathtaking rock-cut tombs and temples. Enter through the narrow Siq, a dramatic canyon with towering cliffs. Your first glimpse of Petra’s wonder is El Khazneh (The Treasury), an ornate masterpiece carved into red sandstone. With a local guide (2-3 hours), discover more of the ancient Nabataean city, including the 3,000-seat Roman-era theatre and the grand Palace Tomb. Learn about the industrious Nabataeans, who settled here over 2,000 years ago. After the guided tour, spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Hike to the Monastery (Al-Deir) for stunning views, explore the Royal Tombs, or wander Petra’s ancient pathways at your own pace. Capture the beauty of the rose-red city as the light shifts throughout the day.
Optional (supplement applies): For a magical experience, consider returning in the evening for Petra by Night, a candlelit spectacle at the Treasury.
Day 11: Petra - Amman (B)
Morning departure by private vehicle from Petra, driving north to Jordans vibrant capital Amman. This dynamic city seamlessly blends ancient heritage with modern charm. Upon arrival, dive into its rich history and lively culture with a guided city tour. Take the time to explore Amman’s charm with a walking tour of the bustling downtown area, where you’ll discover lively souks, historic landmarks, and the famous Rainbow Street—a hub of cafés, shops, and street food delights. Savour local delicacies as you soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Optional: Amman sightseeing alternative: Visit the King Hussein Royal Automobile Museum (Open Sunday-Thursday).
Day 12: Amman (B)
This morning you will be transferred to Amman Airport for your onward flight – maa al salama.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 24/7 service and full local backup from our seven regional offices throughout Egypt and Jordan
- Fast Track Meet and assist prior to immigration at Cairo and Amman Airports
- Egyptian and Jordanian visa for US, Canadian, New Zealand, Australian and UK passport holders
- Airport departure assistance
- 3 nights hotel accommodation in Egypt
- 4-night Nile Cruise Egypt
- 4 nights’ hotel accommodation in Jordan
- Daily breakfast at hotels
- All meals on Nile Cruise
- Airport arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle
- Transportation in Egypt by private vehicle with licensed tourism driver
- Transportation in Jordan by private vehicle with English speaking driver and daily mineral water provided
- Economy class domestic flights Cairo/Luxor and Aswan/Cairo
- Economy class International flight Cairo/ Amman
- Private sightseeing (excluding on the Nile Cruise) in Cairo with English speaking Egyptologist and licensed tourism driver
- Group sightseeing on Nile Cruise with English speaking Egyptologist
- Local private English-speaking guide in Jerash and Petra and short horse ride inside Petra
- Bonus entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program
- VAT taxes
- Jordan and Egypt Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares (Cairo to Amman included)
- Optional tours and excursions
- Porterage
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Departure taxes
- Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
- Egyptian Visa for non-US, Canadian, New Zealand, Australian and UK Passport holders
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
Accommodation based on the following (or similar):
Cairo Giza area
First Class: Steigenberger Pyramids - Pool/City View Room
Deluxe Class: Hyatt Regency Cairo West - Pyramids View Room
Nile Cruise ex Luxor
First Class: Sonesta Nile Goddess -or- Blue Shadow
Deluxe Class: Movenpick Royal Lily -or- Sonesta Star Goddess -or- MS DWA
Cairo City
First Class: Steigenberger Tahrir - City View Room
Deluxe Class: Cairo Sheraton - City View Room
Dead Sea
First Class: Holiday Inn - Standard Room
Deluxe Class: Movenpick Dead Sea - Classic Room
Petra
First Class: Petra Moon Hotel - Standard Room
Deluxe Class: Petra Movenpick Hotel - Superior Room
Amman
First Class: Ambassador Hotel - Standard Room
Deluxe Class: The House Boutique Suites - Studio Superior Room
Itineraries may be changed without notice due to river flows, local or other conditions and these changes are beyond the responsibility of Innovative Travel or our local operators.
EGYPT
Cruising the Nile
Please use cruise itineraries as a guideline only. The order of sightseeing and overnight destinations may vary and are subject to change due to the operation of Esna Lock, or at the discretion of the cruise company. Should a change of boat be required due to any unforeseen circumstances prior to departure, an alternative of the same standard or better will be offered if available.
Please use cruise itineraries as a guideline only. The order of sightseeing and overnight destinations may vary and are subject to change due to the operation of Esna Lock, or at the discretion of the cruise company. Should a change of boat be required due to any unforeseen circumstances prior to departure, an alternative of the same standard or better will be offered if available.
There are many river boats that cruise between Luxor and Aswan. They provide accommodation and transportation for the majority of tourists travelling to Egypt. Each night and whilst moored for sightseeing, it is common for 4-5 cruise boats to be parked abreast of each other. The location of your boat will vary from port to port however in many cases your view from your cabin will be restricted to cruising periods only.
Sightseeing on Nile Cruise boats is operated by the cruise company. You will be allocated an English-speaking guide and small group of other English-speaking tourists for sightseeing upon embarkation. The order of sightseeing may vary depending on the local port authorities. If a tomb or temple is unable to be visited an alternative will be provided where possible.
Domestic Flights in Egypt
Flight times will be reconfirmed by the local operator upon arrival in Egypt.
Note: Flights from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor generally involve early morning starts due to flight schedules in the summer season. For flights to Abu Simbel certain flights are allocated to clients travelling for day trips from Cairo and overnight programmes. These flights are set by Egypt air and are outside of the operator’s control.
Flight times will be reconfirmed by the local operator upon arrival in Egypt.
Note: Flights from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor generally involve early morning starts due to flight schedules in the summer season. For flights to Abu Simbel certain flights are allocated to clients travelling for day trips from Cairo and overnight programmes. These flights are set by Egypt air and are outside of the operator’s control.
Dress Code
Modest dress is required for entrance to holy sites. Women – long skirt or long pants with shoulders and arms covered with a full cover head scarf to enter holy sites.
Modest dress is required for entrance to holy sites. Women – long skirt or long pants with shoulders and arms covered with a full cover head scarf to enter holy sites.
Hotels
Hotels in regional areas (i.e. Abu Simbel / Siwa / St Catherine) can be of a lower standard than the properties in the main tourist centres, with more basic/less developed infrastructure due to location and surrounding conditions. The options chosen are the best available.
Hotels in regional areas (i.e. Abu Simbel / Siwa / St Catherine) can be of a lower standard than the properties in the main tourist centres, with more basic/less developed infrastructure due to location and surrounding conditions. The options chosen are the best available.
Ramadan
During the Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking & smoking during daylight hours (approx. 7am-6.30pm). As a sign of respect, tourists should also try to refrain eating in public during the fasting hours. Restaurants and Cafes in Hotels and Cruise boats will be open, however limited alcohol may be available over this time. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday 17th February. After 30 days, or on sighting the full moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated & most public and private institutions close for at least three days.
During the Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking & smoking during daylight hours (approx. 7am-6.30pm). As a sign of respect, tourists should also try to refrain eating in public during the fasting hours. Restaurants and Cafes in Hotels and Cruise boats will be open, however limited alcohol may be available over this time. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday 17th February. After 30 days, or on sighting the full moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated & most public and private institutions close for at least three days.
Sightseeing (non-cruise)
All sightseeing unless specified is on a private basis with a driver and guide. Sightseeing generally takes place in the cooler periods of the day i.e. early morning or late afternoon therefore on occasion some early starts may be necessary to avoid the heat
Valley of the Kings: Not all the tombs within the Valley are currently open to the public. Many are closed periodically for resting and renovation. Entrance fees to three tombs is included in cruise packages) plus bonus entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI.
All sightseeing unless specified is on a private basis with a driver and guide. Sightseeing generally takes place in the cooler periods of the day i.e. early morning or late afternoon therefore on occasion some early starts may be necessary to avoid the heat
Valley of the Kings: Not all the tombs within the Valley are currently open to the public. Many are closed periodically for resting and renovation. Entrance fees to three tombs is included in cruise packages) plus bonus entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI.
JORDAN
On private holiday itineraries (unless otherwise specified) touring is made by private air-conditioned car with an English-speaking driver. Local guides are provided in Petra, Wadi Rum and Jerash. The quality of assigned local guides may vary, due to Jordanian Government selection procedures, and is beyond the control of Ancient Kingdoms Holidays and their local representatives.
Dead Sea
When travelling to the Dead Sea from Amman, remember to take your passport as there is a security stop enroute where it will need to be produced.
When travelling to the Dead Sea from Amman, remember to take your passport as there is a security stop enroute where it will need to be produced.
Petra
In Petra, the entrance fee includes free access to brochures & maps, a horse ride from the gate to the Siq and 3 hours guided tour. A horse and carriage is available within the Siq - this is booked and paid locally. Tips for horsemen and guides not included.
In Petra, the entrance fee includes free access to brochures & maps, a horse ride from the gate to the Siq and 3 hours guided tour. A horse and carriage is available within the Siq - this is booked and paid locally. Tips for horsemen and guides not included.
Wadi Rum
The Desert camps, although permanent campsites, have basic infrastructure and facilities. The standard of accommodation will be lower than that experienced in a hotel.
The Desert camps, although permanent campsites, have basic infrastructure and facilities. The standard of accommodation will be lower than that experienced in a hotel.
Wadi Rum drivers & jeeps are locally based, so the quality may vary, and is beyond the control of Ancient Kingdoms Holidays or its Jordanian operators.
Ramadan
During the Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking & smoking during daylight hours (approx. 7am-6.30pm). As a sign of respect, tourists should also try to refrain from these activities in public during the fasting hours. In 2026 Ramadan should commence around 17th February. After 30 days, or on sighting the full moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated & most public and private institutions close for at least three days. During this period hotels may not serve alcohol during daylight hours or at all. Entertainment such as belly dancing may also not be available over this period in particular on the Desert Safari.
During the Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking & smoking during daylight hours (approx. 7am-6.30pm). As a sign of respect, tourists should also try to refrain from these activities in public during the fasting hours. In 2026 Ramadan should commence around 17th February. After 30 days, or on sighting the full moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated & most public and private institutions close for at least three days. During this period hotels may not serve alcohol during daylight hours or at all. Entertainment such as belly dancing may also not be available over this period in particular on the Desert Safari.
Sightseeing
All sightseeing tours require a moderate amount of walking around historical / cultural sites. A good level of fitness will ensure you get a maximum enjoyment from your visit.
All sightseeing tours require a moderate amount of walking around historical / cultural sites. A good level of fitness will ensure you get a maximum enjoyment from your visit.
Visa on arrival in Jordan
For New Zealand & Australian passport holders visa's can be pre-organised by our local representative for clients arriving into Jordan at Amman Airport.
For New Zealand & Australian passport holders visa's can be pre-organised by our local representative for clients arriving into Jordan at Amman Airport.
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
