north africa & the middle east Intrepid’s real life experiences in north africa & the middle east… Discover the lives of ancient pharaohs, Nubians and Bedouin and linger over austere landscapes for memories that will last a lifetime.
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TURKEY
SYRIA MOROCCO JORDAN
EGYPT
Red Sea Getaway
Siwa Oasis
Aswan Friends
Marrakech
Discover Egypt page : 53, XESI
Explore Egypt page : 53, XERA
Middle East Adventure page : 52, XESXC
Best of Morocco page : 50, XMSC
Rejuvenate by the Red Sea. Snorkel, dive, meet Bedouins and watch the sunset over Saudi Arabian mountains before retiring to your simple beach hut.
Step into a different world at Siwa. Isolated by the rippling sand dunes of the Western Desert, this oasis has developed a culture quite unique to the rest of Egypt.
Join a Nubian family for a feast and an unforgettable insight into their culture. Be treated to warm hospitality while enjoying dishes of traditional foods.
Eat in lively Djemaa el-Fna and watch the crowds go by. The Moroccan storytellers, acrobats and snake charmers make for great entertainment.
Photo Competition, Walking camels through the desert, Morocco - Vivien Leung
50 Morocco
Best of Morocco trip code
XMSC
Physical culturAL
Original
15 days, Casablanca to Marrakech Departs every Sunday
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
ITINERARY... Day 1 Casablanca Discover the city’s Art Deco influences. Head out on independent explorations through Casablanca’s heart and admire some of its architectural gems, including the classic Cinema Rialto. Day 2 Rabat/Meknes Stroll through Rabat’s serene Kasbah des Oudaias en route to Meknes, the former capital of Morocco and the site of Sultan Moulay Ismail’s version of Versailles. Days 3-4 Volubilis/Fes Travel back to the days of the Roman Empire on a guided tour of the ruins of Volubilis. In medieval Fes, wander the narrow alleyways of the medina as the call to prayer floats over Fes el-Bali at dusk. Day 5 Midelt Journey through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains to the peaceful, rural village of Midelt. Stop by a handicraft workshop run by Franciscan nuns - a great place to pick up a beautifully crafted souvenir. Day 6 Sahara Camp After a camel ride into the desert, attempt to climb the towering dunes. Later, fall asleep in a desert camp under a blanket of stars. Days 7-8 Todra Gorge Wake
• Discover the ruins of one sultan’s Versailles dream in Meknes • Experience medieval Morocco in Fes • Have an adventure on the Sahara’s dunes • Trek through the impressive Todra Gorge • Explore the fortified city of Ait Benhaddou • Soak up panoramic views of the imposing High Atlas Mountains
early and watch the sunrise over the desert before heading to the impressive palmeraies of Todra Gorge. For the energetic, why not take advantage of the rock-climbing opportunities here, or head out on a trek to be rewarded with spectacular views? Day 9 Ait Benhaddou Pass through Morocco’s film capital, Ouarzazate, on the way to the ancient fortified city of Ait Benhaddou. Explore the streets of this clay kasbah at a relaxed pace, then finish off the day
Best-selling trip... This is one of our most popular Intrepid adventures. Discover for yourself why our travellers love this trip.
with a meal of some of Morocco’s best couscous. Day 10 Aroumd Farewell the Sahara and head to the hills. Perched on a rocky outcrop, remote Aroumd near the village of Imlil offers panoramic views. This is the perfect base for exploring the High Atlas and a great opportunity to experience traditional Berber culture up close. Days 11-12 Essaouira With its Norfolk Island pines and colourful fishing boats, Essaouira is a gem. Get acquainted with the town’s fascinating history on a guided walking tour, then enjoy free time to wander along the beach, visit art galleries or feast on freshly caught seafood. Days 13-15 Marrakech Explore the tantalising spice market, dine al fresco at a foodstall in Djemaa el-Fna or escape the buzz of the city and wander through the manicured gardens of the sublime Palais de la Bahia.
ACCOMMODATION Hotel (10 nts), riad (2 nts), mountain gite (1 nt), desert camp (1 nt) TRANSPORT Train, minibus, local bus, taxi, camel GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 6 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 4 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Sun & selected Wed GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 446 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.70 out of 5 Above: Stunning mosaic, Morocco Right: Strolling through the sand dunes, Sahara Desert, Morocco
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
Wow - what an experience! From the diversity of the landscapes to warm hospitality and rich cultures, this trip really showed what Morocco has to offer! Christine Blais, Canada Travelled on the XMSC
trip code
XMKP
51 Morocco
Morocco Experience Comfort
15 days, Casablanca to Marrakech ITINERARY... Day 1 Casablanca Modelled after Marseille, Morocco’s economic capital is an intriguing mix of old and new. Day 2 Meknes See the ambitious building project of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Days 3-4 Volubilis/Chefchaouen Tread in the footsteps of the Romans at ancient Volubilis then travel north to blue-hued Chefchaouen. Days 5-7 Fes Discover the artistic and
Physical culturAL
religious heart of Morocco. Day 8 Midelt Look out for Barbary apes on the journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Day 9 Sahara Camp Embark on a camel ride and watch the sunset over the cinnamon-red Erg Chebbi dunes. Days 10-11 Todra Gorge/ Dades Gorge Marvel at towering limestone cliffs. Day 12 Ait Benhaddou Learn the secrets of Moroccan cuisine at a cooking demonstration. Days 13-15 Marrakech Full of colour and energy, the mosaic of souqs in Marrakech’s medina is a delight.
• Discover ancient ruins in Meknes • Ride a camel across the magical Sahara • Get caught up in the energy of Marrakech
ACCOMMODATION Hotel (12 nts), riad (2 nts) TRANSPORT Coach, train, minibus, taxi, camel GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 13 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 5 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sat GUARANTEE Subject to min 4 CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 557 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.68 out of 5 Start Finish 2011 26 Mar 09 Apr 02 Apr 16 Apr 16 Apr 30 Apr 30 Apr 14 May 07 May 21 May 14 May 28 May 28 May 11 Jun 11 Jun 25 Jun
25 Jun 02 Jul 23 Jul 20 Aug 27 Aug 03 Sep 10 Sep 17 Sep 24 Sep 01 Oct
09 Jul 16 Jul 06 Aug 03 Sep 10 Sep 17 Sep 24 Sep 01 Oct 08 Oct 15 Oct
08 Oct 15 Oct 22 Oct 29 Oct 12 Nov 26 Nov 10 Dec 2012 31 Mar 14 Apr
22 Oct 29 Oct 05 Nov 12 Nov 26 Nov 10 Dec 24 Dec 14 Apr 28 Apr
21 Apr 05 May 28 Apr 12 May 12 May 26 May 19 May 02 Jun 26 May 09 Jun 09 Jun 23 Jun 16 Jun 30 Jun 23 Jun 07 Jul
Delicious tajine cooking, Morocco - Ragne Kabanova
South Morocco Discovery trip code
XMSF
Original
10 days, ex Marrakech Departs every Saturday
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
ITINERARY... Day 1 Marrakech Mingle with the performers at Djemaa el-Fna and sip mint tea with locals. Day 2 Aroumd Stay in a mountain gite boasting incredible views of the High Atlas Mountains. Day 3 Ait Benhaddou Explore the grand kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, as featured in Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator. Day 4 Zagora Embark on a journey towards the mighty Sahara,
Physical culturAL
through the lush Draa Valley and on to Zagora. Day 5 Sahara Camp Ride camels across the sand at dusk and spend the night under the stars. Day 6 Taroudannt Look out for the incredible sight of goats climbing trees on the way to Taroudannt. Days 7-8 Essaouira Wander through the old medina and learn about this seaside town, then enjoy free time to hit the hamam or relax by the Atlantic Ocean. Days 9-10 Marrakech Relax in the tropical oasis of Majorelle Gardens or sample cuisine at the stalls in the square.
• Experience the colour of Djemaa el-Fna • Admire the kasbah at Ait Benhaddou • Enjoy a change of pace in coastal Essaouira
ACCOMMODATION Hotel (5 nts), riad (2 nts), mountain gite (1 nt), desert camp (1 nt) TRANSPORT 4x4, private minibus, local bus, camel GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 6 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Sat & selected Thu GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 297 kg pp per trip NOTES 1. There is an altered itinerary Jul-Aug. See Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. 2. A single supplement is available on this trip. TRAVELLER RATING 4.68 out of 5 Blue boats docked at fishing harbour, Essaouira, Morocco - Ewen Bell
North Morocco Adventure trip code
XMSB
Original
9 days, Casablanca to Marrakech Departs every Friday
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
ITINERARY... Day 1 Casablanca Arriving early? Head to one of the largest mosques in the world, the ornate Hassan II Mosque. Day 2 Rabat/Moulay Idriss See the delightful Kasbah des Oudaias and spend the night in the sacred hilltop town of Moulay Idriss. Days 3-4 Volubilis/Fes Discover the remarkable mosaics of Volubilis, see the imposing gates and walls of Meknes, then take a step back to the Middle Ages on a trip to Fes. Days 5-7 Chefchaouen/Tangier Nestled between two peaks in the Rif Mountains, charming Chefchaouen is the perfect place to relax. Travel to the coastal town of Tangier and indulge in a seafood feast before making the final journey to Marrakech aboard an overnight train. Days 8-9 Marrakech Get lost in the sights and sounds of this lively city. Tantalise senses with a walk around Djemaa el-Fna or bargain hard in Morocco’s largest souq.
Physical culturAL
• Marvel at Kasbah des Oudaias in Rabat • Experience Moroccan life on a village stay • Relive a glorious medieval past in Fes
ACCOMMODATION Hotel (6 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight sleeper train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Overnight sleeper train, train, local bus, taxi GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Fri GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 267 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.70 out of 5 Colourful leather slippers, Morocco - Gautier Willaume
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
52 Middle East
Middle East Adventure trip code
XESXC
Physical culturAL
Original
28 days, Cairo to Istanbul Departs every Monday & Saturday
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Cairo Head to the Egyptian Museum to view priceless treasures, then ride a camel to visit the extraordinary Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza. Days 3-5 Aswan/Nile Felucca This Nubian city is the gateway to Africa and not far from the inspiring temple complex of Abu Simbel. Join a local Nubian family for a home-cooked meal and an insight into their culture, before boarding a felucca for an unforgettable night on the Nile. Days 6-7 Luxor Wander the monumental Temples of Karnak, ride a donkey through nearby villages and marvel at the pharaohs’ tombs in the Valley of the Kings. Day 8 Cairo There’s time to explore Cairo’s walled Citadel or haggle for a bargain at one of the many souqs. Day 9 Mt Sinai Follow in the footsteps of Moses and climb Mt Sinai for breathtaking panoramic desert views. Day 10 Red Sea Beach Camp Visit the monastery of St Katherine before heading to the coast. Snorkel in the spectacular Red Sea or just kick back and feast on fresh seafood. Day 11 Aqaba Cross over the border and into Jordan. Explore Aqaba, a relaxed diving and beach resort town. Day 12 Wadi Rum Take a jeep safari through some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet, then spend a night in a desert camp. Days 13-14 Petra Explore captivating Petra, a long-lost city carved into rose-coloured cliffs. Days 15-16 Madaba Float in the Dead Sea, stop in at Mt Nebo, then continue to Madaba to marvel at Byzantine mosaics. Take an optional trip to Amman to climb the ruined Citadel. Days 17-18 Damascus Delve into the ancient alleyways and bustling bazaars of Syria’s capital and be impressed by the beautiful Umayyad Mosque. Day 19 Palmyra Explore the ruins of this Silk Road city, which rise hauntingly from the desert. Day 20 Krak des Chevaliers This imposing Crusader fortress is one of the world’s most impressive. Days 21-22 Aleppo Bargain for mementos in Aleppo’s souq. Day 23 Sanliurfa/ Homestay Just over the border in Turkey, Sanliurfa awaits with an ancient bazaar and rich history. Stay overnight in a small village as guests of a family. Day 24 Mt Nemrut Marvel at the colossal stone heads on the mountain’s summit. Days 25-27 Goreme Explore underground cities and fairy chimneys. Day 28 Istanbul A fusion of East and West, Istanbul is a city of contradictions. ACCOMMODATION Hotel (20 nts), beach hut (1 nt), desert camp (1 nt), homestay (1 nt), overnight sleeper train (3 nts), felucca (1 nt) TRANSPORT Overnight sleeper train, 4x4, bus, ferry, felucca, taxi, camel, donkey (seasonal) GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 14 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 5 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Mon & Sat GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 832 kg pp per trip NOTES 1. The welcome meeting for this trip is at 16:00 on day 1. 2. Please note there may be a revised itinerary in the winter months (approx. Oct-Mar) when it’s often not possible to travel to Mt Nemrut due to snow blocking the roads. On these occasions, we’ll spend three nights in Goreme instead. 3. A single supplement is available on this trip. TRAVELLER RATING 4.77 out of 5 Above: Photo Competition, The mighty Sphinx, Giza, Egypt - Paul Pitkethly Right: Photo Competition, Laughing with the locals, Wadi Rum, Jordan - Alison Bagdon
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
• Visit the mysterious Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza • Cruise down the Nile on a traditional felucca • Explore the ancient and mysterious Valley of the Kings • Climb to the summit of Mt Sinai for breathtaking views • Snorkel and swim in the tranquil Red Sea • Get swept up in the beauty of Wadi Rum • Be amazed by the lost city of Petra • Float about in the Dead Sea • Experience the ancient wonder of Damascus • See one of the world’s greatest Crusader castles • Bargain hard for a trinket in Aleppo’s bustling souq • Discover Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes • Uncover hidden gems in the backstreets of Istanbul
trip code
XESI
53 Egypt
Discover Egypt Original DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
15 days, ex Cairo Departs every Sunday
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Cairo Start the adventure in Egypt’s chaotic capital. Ride a camel out to the Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza and peruse priceless artefacts at the fascinating Egyptian Museum. Days 3-4 Aswan/Abu Simbel Hone bargaining skills in one of the country’s best bazaars. Enjoy a boat ride to a nearby beach to climb sand dunes. A walk around Elephantine Island reveals insight into the culture of the local Nubian people. The following day, journey to Abu Simbel to view ancient temples with an extraordinary story. Days 5-6 Nubian Homestay/Nile Felucca Sail to a Nubian village aboard a felucca to experience village culture firsthand during a homestay. Drift along the iconic Nile and take in the sights of rural riverside life. Days 7-9 Luxor Journey by donkey to the ancient hieroglyphs and royal tombs in the Valley of
Physical culturAL
• Admire the Sphinx • Relax on a Nile felucca • Climb mystical Mt Sinai • Dive into chaotic Cairo
the Kings. Meet the members of an animal care project, dedicated to improving the lives of Egypt’s working animals. Explore the temple complex of Karnak before heading back to Cairo aboard a sleeper train. Day 10 Cairo Enjoy a walk through Islamic Cairo and bargain up a storm in the Khan al-Khalili market. Day 11 Mt Sinai Climb - or perhaps ride a camel - to the top of Mt Sinai. Days 12-13 Red Sea Beach Camp Before heading to the Red Sea, visit St Katherine’s Monastery, an important pilgrimage site. Snorkel among coral reefs, stay in beach huts and, in the evening, experience Bedouin hospitality over a seafood meal. Days 14-15 Cairo A farewell dinner offers a last chance to try local culinary favourites and to relive memories of this Egyptian adventure.
This trip was 15 days of complete bliss! It was impossible to decide on which day, city or experience was the highlight as there were too many to choose from. Kathryn Munidasa, Australia Travelled on the XESI
ACCOMMODATION Hotel (8 nts), beach hut (2 nts), felucca (1 nt), homestay (1 nt), overnight sleeper train (2 nts) TRANSPORT Overnight sleeper train, bus, felucca, camel, donkey (seasonal) GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 6 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 4 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Sun & selected Tue GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 446 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.73 out of 5 Photo Competition, Street seller with his produce, Egypt - Jenny Piche
Explore Egypt trip code
XERA
Basix
15 days, ex Cairo Departs every Saturday
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Cairo The never-ending stream of life and noise makes Cairo fascinating to explore. In free time, head out to discover the Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza before catching an overnight train to Aswan. Days 3-4 Aswan Nestled on the banks of the Nile, Aswan is a great base for exploration. Consider visiting a nearby Nubian village to enjoy the local swimming holes and for a dinner of traditional delicacies. A day trip to the fascinating temples of Abu Simbel is also highly recommended. Day 5 Nile Felucca A Nubian crew provides food and song on this traditional felucca journey down the Nile. Watch river life in action and fall asleep on deck beneath the starry night sky. Days 6-7 Luxor Wander through the incredible temple complex of Karnak or travel by donkey to the open-air museum that is the spectacular Valley of the Kings. Days 8-9 Alexandria There is plenty to do in this city. Visit the eerie catacombs of Kom ash-Shuqqafa or admire the modern architecture of the Bibliotheca Alexandria. Days 10-11
Physical culturAL
• Explore vibrant Cairo • Experience traditional Nubian hospitality • Cruise down the Nile on a felucca • Take a dip in Cleopatra’s Bath
Siwa Oasis This remote, exotic oasis is a lush paradise among the desert dunes. Explore the maze-like ruins of the mud brick fort or perhaps take a dip in Cleopatra’s Bath. Day 12 Bawiti Uncover the
Start in Jordan...
legend of the golden mummies or undulge in a relaxing soak in
Extend your travels in this fascinating region by beginning the adventure in Amman. See trip code EERCC.
mineral-rich springs. Day 13 White Desert Camp Travel through the windswept, arid dunes of the Western Desert, then spend a memorable evening camping among the strange moonscape of the White Desert. Days 14-15 Cairo Return to the busy streets of Cairo for some final sightseeing or shopping.
ACCOMMODATION Hotel (10 nts), desert camp (1 nt), felucca (1 nt), overnight seater train (2 nts) TRANSPORT Overnight seater train, 4x4, bus, felucca GROUP SIZE Max 14 MEALS 4 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Sat & selected Thu GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 501 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.67 out of 5 Photo Competition, Mother and child in doorway, Aswan, Egypt - Steve Stills
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
54 Egypt
Egypt Experience trip code
XEKI
Comfort DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
12 days, ex Cairo Departs every Sunday
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Cairo Colourful Cairo overflows with character and there is plenty of time to soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Visit the majestic Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza. Wander the halls of the massive Egyptian Museum, taking in the thousands of ancient treasures on display. Days 3-4 Alexandria The second largest city in Egypt, Alexandria has grown up around its port. Head underground and delve into the mysteries of the Kom ash-Shuqqafa Catacombs. This Roman burial site is the largest of its kind in Egypt and was discovered, quite accidentally, by a hapless donkey. The modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, built to hold eight million books, is a library like no other. Return to Cairo for an overnight train journey. Day 5 Aswan/Abu Simbel Watch the sunset over the Nile from a gliding felucca. Take a flight to the impressive Abu Simbel temples. Days 6-8 Nile Cruise Embark on a cruise down the mighty Nile River, stopping along the way to explore the ancient temple sites of Kom Ombo and Edfu. In between seeing the sites, relax on board the boat and take in the scenery. Days 9-10 Luxor On arrival in Luxor, wander through the fascinating Temples of Karnak, the biggest and most important ACCOMMODATION Hotel (7 nts), Nile cruise (3 nts), overnight sleeper train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Plane, overnight sleeper train, air-conditioned bus, Nile cruise, felucca GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 11 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Sun & selected Fri GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 411 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.64 out of 5 Camels taking a rest at the pyramids, Cairo, Egypt - Sally Johnson
complex of its time. At night, take a moonlight stroll around Luxor Temple. The next day, discover the jewels of ancient Thebes - the Colossi of Memnon, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the royal burial sites in the Valley of the Kings. Days 11-12 Cairo Plunge into the Khan al-Khalili bazaar or head out to the Coptic Christian sector of the city before a final farewell dinner.
Physical culturAL
• Delve into ancient history at the Egyptian Museum • Experience the wonder of the Pyramids of Giza • Explore eerie Roman catacombs • Marvel at monumental temples at Abu Simbel • Cruise along the Nile in comfort • Wander the temples of ancient Thebes • Browse the bustling Khan al-Khalili bazaar
Egypt Adventure trip code
XESB
Original
8 days, ex Cairo Departs every Monday & Saturday
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Cairo Welcome to a city like no other. Be immersed in Cairo’s chaos, colour and culture with a trip to Khan al-Khalili, Egypt’s most famous bazaar. For a change of pace, climb aboard a camel and visit the impressive Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza for those iconic views. Take time to visit the fascinating Egyptian Museum, home to more than 120,000 antiquities and relics, including the famous burial treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb. Then it’s all aboard an overnight train bound for the south. Days 3-5 Aswan/Nile Felucca Join a local Nubian family for dinner to experience a slice of traditional Nile culture firsthand. There is also time for an optional day trip to the fascinating temples of Abu Simbel. Later, set sail down the Nile on a magical overnight felucca journey, falling asleep on deck under a canopy of stars. Days 6-7 Luxor Known as Thebes to the ancient Egyptians, Luxor conceals amazing treasures. Pay a visit to an Intrepid-supported animal care project and wander the amazing Temples of Karnak. Enjoy a donkey ride, then continue on to the
Physical culturAL
• Travel by camel to visit the mysterious Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza • Cruise along the Nile on a felucca • Be amazed by the Temples of Karnak • Dine with locals
Valley of the Kings to visit three of the best-preserved pharaonic ACCOMMODATION Hotel (4 nts), felucca (1 nt), overnight sleeper train (2 nts) TRANSPORT Overnight sleeper train, bus, motorboat, felucca, taxi, camel, donkey (seasonal) GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 4 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 4 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Mon & Sat GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 238 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.73 out of 5 Sailing down the Nile, Aswan, Egypt - Cameron Gaze
tombs. Afterwards, join a local family for a traditional home-cooked
Savour a short break
lunch before boarding an overnight sleeper train back to the
The Alexandria Short Break is a fantastic add-on to this trip. See trip code XEAA for more information.
vibrant capital. Day 8 Cairo Return to Egypt’s pulsating heart. For those with extra time, be sure to roam through the walled Citadel for wonderful views over the busy streets, pick up some exotic trinkets at one of the many markets or escape the hazy chaos of the inner city with a final stroll along the banks of the Nile.
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
trip code
XESW
55 Egypt & Jordan
Pyramids to Petra Original
17 days, Cairo to Madaba Departs every Thursday
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Cairo Head out on camelback to behold the Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza, then discover Tutankhamun’s treasures at the Egyptian Museum. Days 3-4 Aswan Take an overnight train to Aswan. Pick up a souvenir in the souq, visit a Nubian village and enjoy a traditional dinner with a local family. Physical culturAL
Day 5 Nile Felucca Glide along the iconic Nile River on a memorable felucca ride. Settle in for the night on the deck and be rocked gently to sleep as the boat bobs under a starry night sky. Days 6-7 Luxor Take a donkey ride through villages before a visit to the Valley of the Kings. In free time, explore the monumental Temples of Karnak before boarding an overnight train. Day 8 Cairo Uncover peaceful Coptic Cairo, then explore the vibrant spiritual heart of the Islamic Cairo district. Day 9 Mt Sinai Ascend the mystical mountain for panoramic views of the desert landscape. Days 10-11 Red Sea Beach Camp Visit St Katherine’s Monastery before tavelling to the Red Sea. Golden sands, balmy beaches and an overnight stay in a simple beach hut all provide a refreshing interlude. Day 12 Aqaba Take a ferry across the Gulf of Aqaba to Jordan. Day 13 Wadi Rum Experience a memorable night with friendly Bedouin hosts. Days 14-15 Petra Ancient, pink-hued buildings carved into the rock of the surrounding mountains make visiting this ancient city a unique experience. Days 16-17 Madaba Wander the Crusader castle at Karak, float in the Dead Sea and travel to Madaba, a city where Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics evoke memories of lost empires.
• Ponder the riddles of the Sphinx in Cairo • Drift down the Nile on a traditional felucca • Walk through the Valley of the Kings • Climb Mt Sinai for scenic desert views • Visit St Katherine’s Monastery • Laze on golden sand by the Red Sea • Bask in the glow of Petra’s rose-coloured walls
ACCOMMODATION Hotel (10 nts), beach hut (2 nts), desert camp (1 nt), felucca (1 nt), overnight sleeper train (2 nts) TRANSPORT Overnight sleeper train, 4x4, bus, ferry, felucca, taxi, camel, donkey (seasonal) GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 8 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Thu GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 505 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.67 out of 5 Hanging out with the locals, Luxor, Egypt - Sally Johnson
Jordan & Egypt Express trip code
EERJ
Basix
9 days, Amman to Cairo Departs every Saturday
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED
ITINERARY... Day 1 Amman If arriving early, head out to Jerash to soak up history among its well-preserved ruins. Back in the capital, choose to wander through the National Archaeological Museum or head to the impressive Citadel for views over the city. Days 2-3 Petra Enjoy a bouyant dip in the salty Dead Sea - the lowest point on Earth - before exploring spectacular Petra. Hewn out of rose-coloured rock, this ancient Nabataean city is one of the Middle East’s must-see destinations. Day 4 Wadi Rum Follow in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia and head out through some of the most sublime desert landscape on the planet. Spend a memorable night sleeping Bedouin-style in rustic camel-hair tents, or head outside to fall asleep under a twinkling blanket of stars. Days 5-6 Red Sea Beach Camp Cross the sparkling Gulf of Aqaba, arrive in Egypt and make tracks to a seaside camp beside the glistening Red Sea. Spend days snorkelling through beautiful reefs, kicking back on golden sands or joining new Bedouin friends for a delicious seafood feast. Day 7 Mt Sinai Hike or take a camel
Physical culturAL
• Enjoy a dip in the salty Dead Sea • Camp in the desert with Bedouins • Experience wonder at the summit of Mt Sinai • Hunt for a bargain in a Cairo souq
to the summit of Mt Sinai. This is where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments and the views from the top are
Extend your travels...
spectacular. Also make time to visit the beautiful St Katherine’s
Sail down the Nile on a felucca and marvel at the Valley of the Kings. See trip code EERCC for more details.
Monastery. Nestled at the foot of the mountain, this is where Moses was believed to have been spoken to by the Burning Bush. Days 8-9 Cairo With its crowded souqs, treasure-filled museums, flavoursome cuisine and nearby iconic pyramids, Cairo provides the perfect finale to this incredible adventure.
ACCOMMODATION Hotel (5 nts), beach hut (2 nts), desert camp (1 nt) TRANSPORT 4x4, private minibus, ferry GROUP SIZE Max 14 MEALS 3 Breakfasts, 1 Dinner BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Sat GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 301 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.67 out of 5 Photo Competition, Little boy with donkey, Petra, Jordan - Louise Davies
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
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