Giza, while technically a separate administrative district, is part of the sprawling urban city of Cairo. The area is most famous as the location of the Giza Plateau: the site of some of the most impressive ancient monuments in the world. Although there are over a hundred pyramids in Egypt, by far the most famous are the Giza Pyramids. During the Greek and Roman eras, they were marvelled at as the first of the Seven Wonders of the World, and they still exert a powerful fascination, both as an extraordinary technical achievement and as a demonstration of the might, power, and ambition of Egypt's pharaonic rulers. No tour of Egypt would be complete without a visit to this extraordinary site which has inspired the most fantastic legends since ancient times and continues to fascinate and inspire visitors.
Situated in northern Egypt, the port city of Alexandria is a renowned historical city, which serves as a commercial hub and the cultural capital of Egypt. This dazzling jewel of the Mediterranean was founded by the legend, Alexander the Great and ruled by the iconic Queen Cleopatra. It is home to the Great Library of Alexandria and the colossal Pharos Lighthouse, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Soak up the old-world atmosphere whilst sipping coffee at a cafe, wander through the vibrant souk, stroll along the harbour area and take in the impressive Belle-epoque-era architecture. Don’t miss the ultra-modern, disc-shaped Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Other highlights include a number of Greco-Roman landmarks, some lovely sandy beaches and a 15th-century seafront Qaitbay Citadel, which has been converted into a popular museum.
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Discover the beauty of Taba, a seaside resort located at the northernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula. This incredible destination offers more than just stunning coastal views; explore historical sites or uncover intriguing wildlife like the Nubian Ibex and admire caves, a string of steep valleys, mountainous passages and natural springs at the Taba Protected Area just southwest of town. Dive into the Red Sea to observe some of this region's rich marine life through numerous diving and snorkelling trips, or you can spend the day hiking and trekking through the deep mountain ranges of Southern Sinai. Just off the Sinai coast is Pharaoh's Island, a popular attraction that sits the iconic Salah El Din Citadel, surrounded by crystal blue waters and pristine coral reefs
Spread across seven hills, Amman, the capital city of Jordan, is a sprawling modern metropolis. While many travellers to the Middle East overlook Amman in favour of more celebrated destinations such as Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and Petra; those discerning enough to add Amman to their itinerary will enjoy the treasure trove of hidden surprises this modern capital city has to offer. The city features a bustling maze of busy streets and is divided into two distinct areas. The first is Western Amman, with its lush residential suburbs, elegant restaurants, stylish bars, and state-of-the-art shopping malls. This modern sophistication stands in sharp and intriguing contrast to the laid-back Eastern Amman, boasting a more traditional, earthy side. Spend your days visiting an array of attractions such as Amman's Roman Amphitheatre the fascinating Jordan Museum or the countless luxurious cafes.
Aptly dubbed 'The Valley of the Moon', this desert area in Southern Jordan, set east of Aqaba, features an other-worldly landscape. Scenes of massive razor-toothed mountains, undulating dunes, and rocks sculpted by the forces of nature into incredible bridges, towering canyons, bulbous domes, and a variety of other impressive formations take centre stage. With very little modern development, Wadi Rum makes for an astonishing, unspoiled destination. While more adventurous travellers can plan an overnight stay in a traditional tented Bedouin camp and can explore the extraordinary topography on horseback, those seeking a bit of luxury can stay in one of the modern villages in the surrounding area and explore the area on a guided four-wheel drive tour. However you choose to do it, Wadi Rum is a major highlight and an essential component of any tour of Jordan.
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Resting in the east of the Galilee region, the Sea of Galilee is Israel’s largest freshwater lake. Known in Hebrew as Yam Kinneret, this picturesque lake is famed for its religious significance as the area surrounding this vast body of water is where Jesus is said to have conducted most of his ministry. It was here that he is believed to have walked on water, miraculously multiplied the loaves and fishes, and delivered the Sermon on the Mount. As such, the lake has long been a popular pilgrimage site offering a multitude of holy sites of Judaism and Christianity such as Capernaum, Mount of Beatitudes, the Tomb of Habakuk, and the Tomb of Rabbi Akiva. Its beaches are also a prime recreational spot for Israelis and foreigners alike offering great opportunities for swimming, water skiing, jet skiing, cycling and visiting the popular shoreline water parks. For all its beauty and splendor and for the rich history that it harbors, the Sea of Galilee is a sight not to be missed by anyone embarking on a tour of Israel.
Situated 60 kilometers northwest of Jerusalem and 90 kilometers south of Haifa on Israel’s Mediterranean coastline, Tel Aviv is characterised by a juxtaposition of old and new. The towering skyscrapers in this cosmopolitan metropolis stand in stark contrast to the cobbled streets and old-world charm of the surrounding areas. Tel Aviv is the financial, technological, and economic hub of Israel, and is also known as a ‘party capital’ - the perfect destination for the hedonistic traveller looking to play in a vibrant, dynamic city that never sleeps. Visitors spend time marveling at the plethora of contemporary art galleries, engaging in retail therapy at artisan boutiques, or relaxing in the sun on one of the blissfully balmy beaches, before heading to Tel Aviv’s many restaurants, bars, and exclusive nightclubs after dark.
Located in the Jerusalem District of Israel, Israel is the intriguing capital of both Israel and Palestine. It holds important significance for three major religions (Islam, Christianity, and Judaism) and as a result, offers a multitude of historical attractions to interest both pilgrims and secular tourists. The walled Old City, with its narrow cobble-stoned alleyways, beautiful bell towers, and charming hidden courtyards, is the epicentre of Jerusalem. Despite its small size, the Old City is home to a plethora of ancient sacred sites. These include the Garden of Gethsemane; the Western Wall; and the Dome of the Rock from which Muhammad is said to have ascended to heaven. Step out of the Old City and you will find yourself thrust back into the twenty-first century. All of these historical sites contrast to make Jerusalem a fascinating and inspiring travel destination.
