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Egypt & Jordan In-Style 2025/26

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Operated by Bunnik Tours
Tripcode: 1075
Overview
Destination:
Egypt
Jordan
Start:Amman, Jordan
Finish:Cairo, Egypt
Duration:24 days
Type:Group tour (max 16)
Style:
Small group,
Travel Period
September 2025 - April 2026
Set off on an opulent five-star journey through Egypt and Jordan, uncovering ancient treasures with every turn. Marvel at the blanket of stars in the desert sky in Wadi Rum, be awestruck by the grandeur of Egypt’s ancient temples and cruise the majestic Nile River in luxurious style.
Standard inclusions
  • Sightseeing

    Jewels of Jordan

    • Tour the sites of Amman including the Citadel
    • Visit the beautifully preserved Roman city of Jerash
    • Admire the views from the impressive Islamic Ajloun Castle
    • Meet a Jordanian matchmaker and listen to how they match brides and grooms.
    • See the spectacular Byzantine and Umayyed mosaics in Madaba
    • Uncover the Greek Orthodox Church of St George
    • Visit the Greek Orthodox Church of St George
    • Visit Mt Nebo for fantastic views of the Jordan Valley
    • Explore Carob Farm and enjoy a farm to table experience
    • Explore the unique desert landscape of Wadi Rum and stay in a Bubble Tent
    • Enjoy a BBQ lunch in the heart of the Wadi Rum desert
    • Take a 4WD tour and finish viewing the sunset while tasting local wine in Wadi Rum.
    • Camp in luxury at Wadi Rum
    • Discover Aqaba
    • Delve into Jordanian cuisine during a Hooh sweets making class
    • Discover fascinating Little Petra
    • Visit one of the world’s greatest treasures – the lost city of Petra!
    • Visit the impressive Shobak Castle
    • Swim or float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea
    • Enjoy a delicious cooking class

    Unlock the mysteries of Egypt's ancient civilization

    • Discover the Great Pyramids of Giza and the famous Sphinx
    • Entry into the Pyramid of Khufu
    • Enjoy lunch with a view at Khufu's Restaurant
    • Explore the world-renowned Grand Egyptian Museum
    • Visit the Egyptian Museum (to see the Tutankhamun collection)
    • Visit the Red & Bent Pyramids of Dahshur
    • Visit the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara
    • Tour the Serapeum of Sakkara
    • Indulge in a delicious lunch at a local farm
    • Visit the grand Karnak Temple
    • Marvel at Luxor Temple at sunset
    • Explore the West Bank, including the Colossi of Memnon, the Valley of the Kings (where we enter some of the tombs of the pharaohs) and the massive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
    • Entry into Tutankhamun’s Tomb
    • Unwind on a four-night luxury cruise on the Nile from Luxor to Aswan
    • Half day tour of Dendera Temple complex
    • Travel to the magnificent Temple of Horus (the Falcon God) in Edfu
    • Visit the Temple of Kom Ombo
    • Enjoy a Galabeya party whilst cruising the Nile
    • Visit the temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari at Abu Simbel
    • Visit the fascinating Nubian Museum in Aswan
    • Navigate the waterways of the Nile, to a Nubian village, enjoy the local market and visit a Nubian family in their home
    • Stay two nights at the world-famous Old Cataract Hotel
    • Indulge in a decadent high tea at the Old Cataract Hotel, overlooking the banks of the Nile River
    • Explore the beautiful Philae Temple on Agilkia Island
    • Relax on a traditional felucca sailboat in Aswan
    • Visit the Mohammed Ali Mosque and the Saladin Citadel of Cairo
    • Explore the centuries-old El Moez Street and Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
    • Tour of Manial Palace and Nilometer

    Travel

    • Return economy-class flights from Australia to the Middle East. Taxes included. 
    • 5 economy-class flights within the Middle East
    • Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
    • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles (excluding 4WD in Wadi Rum)
    • 4-night Nile River cruise

    Accommodation

    • 14 nights in 5 star specialty hotels & resorts
    • 4 nights in an outside cabin on board a 5 star (Egyptian standard) luxury Nile River cruise
    • 1 night at a luxury desert camp in a bubble tent in magnificent Wadi Rum
    • 2 nights at the famous Old Cataract Hotel

     

    Properties include:

    • Fairmont Hotel, Amman – Escape the hustle and bustle of Amman at this luxurious and contemporary hotel. Be sure to marvel at the incredible views it offers over the expansive Amman city centre.
    • Bubble Luxotel, Wadi Rum – In the heart of Wadi Rum you’ll find this special escape. The unique-shaped ‘bubble tents’ blend in with the landscapes of Wadi Rum’s desert, and offer incredible views of the surrounding rugged mountains and red sands.
    • Movenpick Resort & Residences, Aqaba – Positioned in the centre of Aqaba with gorgeous views of the Red Sea and coloured mountains, this stunning resort offers a wealth of comforting amenities.
    • The Old Village Resort, Petra – Located in Wadi Musa, this unique resort overlooks the stunning Shahara Mountains and is within 2.5-kilometres of the entrance to the UNESCO Heritage-listed Petra. The hotel offers a beautiful swimming pool to cool off after a day of exploring.
    • Kempinski Hotel Ishtar, Dead Sea – Situated on the edge of the famous Salt Lake, 434m below sea level and close to Jordan’s top attractions, this hotel is a brilliant ode to the hanging gardens of Babel, featuring a private sandy beach and a 5 star luxury spa that provides luxury experiences infused with Dead Sea rich minerals.
    • The Nile Ritz Carlton, Cairo – A luxurious 5-star hotel sitting on the banks of the Nile River, this gorgeous accommodation offers incredible views in the heart of Cairo. It has an ideal location, situated between the Nile River, Tahrir Square and the Egyptian Museum.
    • Sofitel Winter Palace, Luxor – Built in 1886 on the Nile banks in a tropical garden is a magical experience of history and luxury. Winter Palace offers the mythical atmosphere with the modern decor comfort of a 5 star hotel. Located in the city centre, just minutes from Luxor Temple and the airport.
    • Sonesta St George, Nile Cruise – Sail in total luxury on this elegant cruise ship, complete with deluxe cabins, sophisticated lounges and a comfortable sundeck to bask in the views of the Nile River.
    • Old Cataract Hotel, Aswan – A once-in-a-lifetime stay, this iconic property was built in 1899 and is the epitome of classical luxury and old-world charm. Nestled in the banks of the Nile River, the Old Cataract has welcomed many historical figures through its doors, including Winston Churchill, Agatha Christie and Howard Carter.

    Hotels & Cruise ship listed are an indication and are subject to change without notice.

    Meals

    • 21 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 11 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners

    Tour Guides

    • English-speaking locally based driver and guide in Jordan (English-speaking driver and local specialist guides at Jerash, Ajloun Castle, Mt Nebo & Petra for group sizes below 6 passengers)
    • English-speaking, university-qualified Egyptologist guides

    Porterage

    • Porterage included where available

    Some things to note

    Please note:

    • Ramadan is observed from 17 February to 19 March 2026
    • The Grand Egyptian Museum partially opened in October 2024. Your visit will include main galleries currently available to the public. We will also continue to visit the Egyptian Museum, where Tutankhamun’s collection still is displayed, until the GEM’s official opening date. This date will be announced by the Government of Egypt in the near future.
    • The luxury Nile cruise is not a private charter and is shared with non Bunnik passengers. Due to the limited space for docking along the Nile, ships bank together when stopped. Therefore, in some cases, you may need to walk through as many as six ships to enter and exit our cruise ship. The Nile Cruises featured on all tourist itineraries to Egypt operate between the cities of Luxor and Aswan. These cities lie only 240 kilometres apart which means this distance could easily be covered in only 1 or 2 days without stops. Each cruise itinerary will, however, have an element of day-time cruising allowing us to relax and see life along the river.
    • Twin bookings in the Old Cataract Hotel will have an extra bed added to a King bed room.
    • Women will need a head scarf to enter some mosques and temples, and wear modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders. Also, it’s a good idea to pack a spare pair of socks in your daypack, as sometimes shoes need to be removed when entering and the ground can be hot. There can be a lack of shade when visiting sights and attractions, so a sturdy hat and sun protection is also an absolute must.  
    • Travel through the Esna Lock is subject to river traffic and local conditions which means we may pass through the lock during the night or have an extended wait prior to entering the lock. 

    Optional excursions:

    • Timing & practicability of optional excursions are subject to several external factors, such as internal flight timings, weather & traffic conditions. For optional excursions ex Cairo, post-tour accommodation is recommended to allow sufficient time. Further optional excursions not listed may be offered by your guide throughout the tour.
    • All optional tours are based on a minimum of 2 participants (unless otherwise stated) and are subject to availability. The length of tours advised is an approximate only. Tours can be booked on tour directly with your Tour Director or guide. We recommend arranging the booking at the beginning of the tour to avoid disappointment. Please note some optional tours may also be available on multiple or alternate days. Prices are a guide only and are subject to change without prior notice. Payment by cash is preferred as there are no guarantees that credit card facilities will be available. Please check with your Tour Director or guide locally for information relating to this. Credit card fees and exchange rates are at the discretion of your bank.
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Itinerary
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Day 1 - Depart Australia
Day 1 - Depart Australia
Day 2 - Arrive Amman
Welcome to Jordan, a country that is home to some of mankind’s earliest settlements. We begin in Amman, Jordan’s bustling and vibrant capital and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of the world. Jordan’s largest city, Amman is a fascinating destination of contrasts, seamlessly blending together history and modernity. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5.00pm. We’ll enjoy some free time to freshen up, before meeting our fellow travellers at a group welcome dinner this evening.
Day 3 - Amman – Jerash – Amman
This morning our eyes are set on exploring Jerash, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world. This fascinating ancient city was buried in sand before being gradually revealed through a series of excavations starting in 1925 and continuing to this day. In an in depth tour, we’ll walk through and uncover the colonnaded streets, amphitheatre, churches, temples and the vast Roman Forum. Later, we’ll take a short drive to the impressive Ajloun Castle or ‘Qalaat Rabadh’ (Arabic for ‘Hilltop Castle’). This Islamic Castle was built in the 12th century and served as a military fort to protect the region from invading Crusader forces. Here, we’ll also be treated to unparalleled views over the rolling hills of the Jordan Valley and the desert that surrounds it. Special Experience Meet a Jordanian matchmaker and learn about how they match brides and grooms in their communities. We will be welcomed into the home of a local matchmaker, learning about the tradition of arranged marriages in Jordan and how they help couples in the community. This tradition has been around for decades in the Middle East and especially in Bedouin communities.
Day 4 - Amman – Madaba – Amman
On the agenda today is exploring the ancient town of Madaba, also known as ‘The City of Mosaics’, where underneath almost every house lies a fine Byzantine mosaic. We will visit the Greek Orthodox Church of St George, home to Madaba’s main attraction, a wonderfully vivid, 6th century Byzantine mosaic map showing the entire region from Jordan and Palestine in the north, to Egypt in the south. We’ll also stop at Mount Nebo, the centre for pilgrimages since the earliest Christian times. Mount Nebo is one of the most sacred holy sites of Jordan as it is said to be the place where Moses was buried. Special Experience Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience in Madaba, touring the farm before delighting in a delicious lunch. On arrival at Carob Farm, we’ll be greeted by the farm keeper who will briefly share with us the farm’s history and their natural farming philosophy. We’ll set off on a tour of the property, before transferring to Carob House in the town’s centre. In a beautiful 1930’s restored-house, we’ll enjoy scrumptious dishes made of locally-sourced ingredients, with each course reflecting a cultural story that will be interpreted by the local host! After this amazing experience, we’ll make our way back to Amman, where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 5 - Amman – Wadi Rum
This morning we begin with a visit to the amazing Amman Citadel that is perched atop the Jabal Al Qal’a, one of the cities highest hills and one of the seven Jabals that originally made up the city. We will walk through this ancient ruin to gain insight into Jordan’s history while also enjoying incredible panoramic views. Our sights are then set on travelling to the breathtaking Wadi Rum. This protected desert wilderness in southern Jordan spans over 700 kilometres-squared and is home to nomadic Bedouin tribes renowned for their traditions and warm hospitality. Traces of ancient civilisations exist in the many carved inscriptions to be found throughout the Wadi Rum area, from pictographs to Thamudic, Nabatean and Arabic texts. The most lasting monuments in Wadi Rum, however, are those carved by nature – the natural rock bridges, the towering rose-coloured sand dunes and vast peaks. Also known as the ‘Valley of the Moon’, Wadi Rum’s exotic landscapes are a favourite location for keen filmmakers, with a variety of blockbusters utilising the region’s space-like vistas, including Lawrence of Arabia, the Martian and Red Planet. On arrival we’ll enjoy an exclusive BBQ lunch in the heart of the Wadi Rum desert. Deluxe Experience Experience a night under the stars in a unique ‘bubble tent’ in the heart of Wadi Rum's stunning desertscape. Also enjoy an exciting 4WD tour and end the day by watching the sunset while tasting local wine. Tonight we’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime stay in a luxurious Bedouin-style desert camp. Staying in uniquely-shaped ‘bubble tents’, our accommodation will allow us to immerse ourselves in the beauty of Wadi Rum, enjoying phenomenal views of the rugged mountains and endless red desert sands that surround us. Optional Excursion Camel Ride - Experience an iconic aspect of Bedouin life, taking a camel ride through Wadi Rum. 1 hour – from $25pp US. Cash only.
Day 6 - Wadi Rum – Aqaba (Red Sea)
Jordan’s only coastal city, the picturesque Aqaba on the Red Sea, is our destination for today. Jordan’s premier tourism resort and only seaport, Aqaba captivates visitors with its stunning Red Sea coastline, rich history, and amazing location, attracting thousands of travellers each year. This relaxed town is situated on the southern tip of Jordan, and yet despite its beach town vibe, the city retains much of its traditional Jordanian charm. On arrival in Aqaba, the remainder of the day is at leisure to explore more of this relaxed city, or to simply kick back and relax. Optional Excursion Glass Bottom Boat – Cruise through the crystal-clear waters of the Aqaba Marine Park on a glass bottom boat and enjoy a delicious lunch. 3 hours – from $50pp US. Cash only.
Day 7 - Aqaba (Red Sea) – Petra
This morning we take the opportunity to delve into Jordanian cuisine, learning how to make the delicious Hooh sweets in a cooking class. A traditional Aqaba treat consisting of layers of dough with nuts, butter, honey and more, this unique experience gives us the opportunity to make and sample this local dessert fresh! We will also enjoy coffee and tea with the chef’s family. After exercising our sweet tooth, we’ll make our way towards Petra. Along the way, we’ll stop to visit the fascinating ‘Little Petra’, also known as Siq al-Barid. Little Petra has a history dating back some 9,000 years and is one of the oldest archaeological sites in the Middle East. Famous for its ancient buildings sculpted out of solid red sandstone, Little Petra has been a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site since 1985. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious group dinner at a local restaurant in Petra.
Day 8 - Petra
Located in Jordan’s southwestern desert, Petra is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. This morning we explore the famous lost city of Petra on a guided tour. Carved into the sheer rockface by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago, it was an important junction for the silk and trade routes. Attracting visitors from all over the world, much of Petra’s appeal comes from its breathtaking setting deep inside a narrow desert gorge. Our guide will explain the history of this great city and our tour will include a visit to Petra’s most famous monument, the Treasury. We will also visit Pharaoh’s Castle, the Triumphal Arch, the Amphitheatre situated near the top of a large hill and the stunning Monastery. The view from here is worth the climb! After our guided tour, enjoy the rest of the day free to explore this delightful city independently. Optional Excursion Petra by Night - Discover the magic of Petra after dark, as the rock city is lit by more than 1,000 candles. 2 hours – from $43pp US. Cash only. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 9 - Petra – Dead Sea
We farewell Petra this morning and make our way to today’s first stop, the incredible Shobak Castle, perched atop a hill that was formerly called Mons Realis or 'Royal Mountain'. This imposing castle was built by the crusader King Baldwin I in 1115, and throughout history was the subject of numerous attacks, reflected through the site's weathered architecture. Next, we venture to the lowest point on Earth – the iconic Dead Sea. As its name evokes, the Dead Sea is devoid of life due to the extremely high content of salts and minerals that give its waters its renowned curative powers, therapeutic qualities and buoyancy. Because the salt content is four times that of most oceans, you can float in the Dead Sea without even trying! Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Why not take a dip in the Dead Sea and cover your body in the therapeutic mud, said to have amazing benefits for your skin?
Day 10 - Dead Sea – Amman
This morning we farewell the Dead Sea and make our way back to the bustling city of Amman, delighting in a fun and informative cooking class along the way. Special Experience Excite your taste buds in a cooking class, learning to master traditional Jordanian dishes with a local chef. We’ll visit a community involved in a sustainability project that aims to empower locals through teaching permaculture practices. Here, we will be taken to a nearby restaurant to meet a local chef. In a home-style kitchen, we’ll learn how to cook a traditional Jordanian recipe, before devouring our delicious creations.
Day 11 - Amman - Cairo
We will transfer to the airport today, for our flight to Cairo. Set on the Nile River, Cairo is the capital and largest city of Egypt. Home to many famous Egyptian landmarks, visitors will find it to be a fascinating and often bewildering mixture of old and new. On arrival, we’ll transfer to the hotel and meet our guide before a group dinner to welcome us to Egypt.
Day 12 - Cairo – Giza - Cairo
We’re set for a magical day of touring, visiting some of the sites that frequently top traveller’s bucket lists. We begin our Egyptian touring at the oldest structures in existence and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the amazing Great Pyramids of Giza. Serving as the tomb of the pharaoh Khufu, the largest pyramid was originally 481 feet high and has managed to stay largely intact since its construction in 2600 BC. The two slightly smaller pyramids were built for Khufu’s son, Khafre, and grandson, Menkaure, likewise as burial places for three generations of Egyptian kings. We’ll then visit the nearby Great Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a king, often referred to as the national symbol of Egypt. This iconic statue is believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre and is thought to represent him, yet its construction and purpose remains a fascinating mystery. Special Experience Take in the incredible views of the Great Pyramids of Giza while enjoying a delicious lunch at Khufu's Restaurant. At Khufu’s Restaurant, we’re treated to delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, but the best bit? The view! This unique restaurant is unlike anything you’ve been to before. Offering panoramic views of the majestic pyramids surrounded by desert, the pictures you’ll take here are guaranteed to be incredible. This afternoon we visit the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Giza, located a short distance from the pyramids themselves. One of the largest, most modern and renowned museums in the entire world, the GEM is home to over 100,000 ancient Egyptian artefacts. We’re greeted by a 3,200 year old and 83-ton statue of Ramses II in the GEM’s main entrance, so you know we’re in for a real treat exploring this fascinating place! Please note: The Grand Egyptian Museum partially opened in October 2024. Your visit will include main galleries currently available to the public. We will also continue to visit the Egyptian Museum, where Tutankhamun’s collection still is displayed, until the GEM’s official opening date. This date will be announced by the Government of Egypt in the near future.
Day 13 - Cairo
Our day begins by discovering the incredible Pyramids of Dahshur. This site was used as funerary grounds beginning in the time of the Fourth Dynasty, where King Senefru built two of his three pyramids: the 'Bent' pyramid, named for the angle of the sides, & the 'Red Pyramid' named for the red limestone used in its construction. Special Experience Tour the historic Serapeum of Sakkara, the burial place of the Apis Bulls We’ll then make our way to the small town of Sakkara to uncover Egypt’s oldest pyramid, the ancient Step Pyramid of Sakkara. It’s believed to have been designed by the famous vizier of King Zoser, Imhotep, one of the first recognised architects in history. While here, we will also tour the breathtaking Serapeum of Sakkara, an ancient burial place for scared bulls of the Apis ult in Memphis. Bulls were linked to the god Ptah, and priests would choose specific bulls based on their distinctive markings and divine origins. When these bulls died, they were mummified and placed in sarcophagi during elaborate ceremonies. This afternoon, we’ll delight in a culinary experience at a local farm. Enjoying a farm-to-table lunch, we will sample an array of delicious dishes made of fresh and locally sourced ingredients. After, we return back to Cairo where the remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Day 14 - Cairo - Luxor
We have an early start this morning as we leave the hustle and bustle of Cairo behind and fly to Luxor. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, the city surrounds two huge, surviving ancient monuments. Once in Luxor, we’ll explore the fascinating Karnak Temple, dedicated to the Pharaoh Amun. Approximately 30 pharaohs contributed to the temple’s structure over time, which explains its monumental size! We’ll then visit a local gallery to appreciate the ancient artform of papyrus craft, with an opportunity to purchase the artwork to take home. Special Experience Explore the spectacular Luxor Temple at sunset and witness as the sun brings this ancient wonder to life. Luxor Temple is connected to Karnak Temple by a 3-kilometre-long Avenue of Sphinxes. It’s also home to a 25-metre-tall pink granite obelisk, which was part of a matching pair until the 1830s when one was given to France. It now stands in the centre of the Place de la Concorde in Paris. Optional Excursion Luxor Museum – Discover one of Egypt’s best museums, boasting some of the country’s best-preserved artefacts. The Luxor Museum is home to an abundance of ancient antiquities from the Theban region, featuring statues, pottery, jewellery and well-preserved mummies. 1.5 hours – from $60pp US. Cash only.
Day 15 - Luxor - Nile Cruise
This morning we discover the sights of Luxor on a half day tour. Our first destination is the spectacular Valley of the Kings. Serving as a royal burial chamber for around 500 years, it is home to legendary kings and queens, their families, and their possessions for the afterlife. Here we’ll explore tombs carved deep into the limestone rock, where each tomb has a similar pattern of three corridors, an antechamber and a sarcophagus chamber. While here, we’ll also get the chance to descend underground into the world-famous tomb of Tutankhamun. Discovered over 100 years ago by renowned Egyptologist Howard Carter, this spectacular tomb consists of four chambers, intricate corridors and an entrance staircase. We’ll admire the well-preserved hieroglyphic paintings on the wall as we explore this underground marvel. Our next destination is the spectacular Temple of Hatshepsut. Queen Hatshepsut was one of only a few women to be given the title of pharaoh. We’ll then visit the Colossi of Memnon, a historic landmark consisting of two massive statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III. We then stop at a nearby alabaster workshop, to learn how the locally quarried stone is carved and crafted. This afternoon we embark on our Nile River cruise ship. Lunch is served on board and the rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy at leisure. Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride over the West Bank in the early morning. Includes transport from hotel. 1.5 hours – from $170pp US. Cash only. Optional Excursion Deir El Medina & Medinet Habu – Visit one of the most well-preserved ancient settlements in Egypt and the Mortuary Temple of Ramses ll. 3 hours – minimum 4 participants required – from $105pp US, including Nobles Tombs; from $160pp US, including Nefertari’s Tomb (subject to open times). Cash Only Optional Excursion Sound & Light Show at Karnak Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 16 - Nile Cruise
Special Experience Take a half-day tour to Dendera Temple complex and see one of the best-preserved temples and most important sites of ancient Egypt, the Temple of Hathor (the goddess of pleasure and love). The main temple of Dendera is dedicated to the goddess Hathor, who’s associated with love, pleasure, beauty and music. Beauty can be seen everywhere in this complex, with well-preserved artwork and reliefs found within the temple reflecting religious rituals and mythological stories. Its exquisite detailing and vibrant colours make Dendera Temple complex a fascinating location to uncover. Today we will also pass through the Esna Lock to continue our journey south. Situated near the town of Esna along the river, this crucial piece of infrastructure is designed to manage the Nile’s flow and allows vessels to bypass the Esna Barrage, a dam that regulates water for irrigation purposes. Constructed in the 20th century, the lock ensures continuous river navigation despite varying water levels and seasonal changes.
Day 17 - Nile Cruise
Located on the west bank of the Nile River between Esna and Aswan, you will find the small city of Edfu. This Egyptian city has a population of approximately sixty thousand people. It is famous for the Temple of Horus, dedicated to the Falcon God, the main attraction which we’ll visit this morning by bus transfer. This beautiful ancient temple is one of the best-preserved in Egypt and the second largest after Karnak Temple. We’ll then cruise to the riverside Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus. It’s an unusual ‘double’ temple, meaning that this complex honours two gods, and remnants of Sobek’s crocodiles and Horus’ falcons can be seen throughout their respective sides. Tonight, we enjoy a traditional (and fun!) Galabeya party on board.
Day 18 - Nile Cruise – Abu Simbel – Nile Cruise
Departing Kom Ombo in the early morning, we continue on to Aswan. We’ll transfer to Aswan airport this morning for our flight to Abu Simbel. We visit the incredible UNESCO listed twin temples of Abu Simbel. The temples were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, as a monument to himself and his queen, Nefertari. We’ll spend a couple of hours exploring these gigantic temples, before flying back to Aswan for a Nubian show onboard the ship tonight. Optional Excursion Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Day 19 - Nile Cruise – Aswan
Today, we disembark the Nile cruise ship and bid farewell to the amazing crew. Our day will be spent exploring the incredible sights of Aswan. Special Experience Uncover the fascinating Nubian Museum, before navigating the waterways of the Nile to a Nubian village, visiting the local market and a Nubian family in their home. Known for their rich history and traditions, Nubian history can be traced back thousands of years. The Nubian people are renowned for their unique language, vibrant music and colourful crafts, preserving a distinctive cultural identity. Dotted along the Nile River, you’ll find traditional Nubian villages that feature bright and colourful mud-brick homes. Deluxe Experience Enjoy two unforgettable nights at the famous Old Cataract Hotel and indulge in a High Tea overlooking the stunning Nile River. This afternoon, we'll check into our once-in-a-lifetime stay at the famous Old Cataract Hotel. Hugging the banks of the Nile River since 1899, the hotel’s history alone is astounding. Many illustrious figures frequented this luxurious property, including former British prime minister, Winston Churchill, and renowned archaeologist, Howard Carter. Celebrated novelist, Agatha Christie, stayed at the Old Cataract for an entire year, where she wrote part of the iconic ‘Death of the Nile’ novel. Here, history and luxury waltz hand-in-hand.
Day 20 - Aswan
This morning we will set off to explore the enchanting Philae Temple, a temple that was relocated to Agilkia Island to save it from rising waters during the High Dam’s construction. It is dedicated to the goddess Isis and the complex is a seamless blend of ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman architectural styles. Here, we’ll marvel at the majestic colonnades and intricate reliefs. We’ll enjoy the afternoon at leisure to bask in the Old Cataract’s atmosphere and to delight in the facilities on offer to us. Ever dreamed of taking a refreshing dip while overlooking the picturesque Nile River? Well, today’s your chance! Later today, we will board a felucca and sail on the Nile around Kitchener Island. A traditional wooden sailing boat featuring a single sail, a felucca provides a tranquil and serene sailing experience, allowing us to bask in the calmness of the river as the sun gently sets.
Day 21 - Aswan – Cairo
This morning we head to Aswan airport and make our way back to Egypt’s lively capital, Cairo. On arrival, we’ll begin with a visit to the 12th century Saladin Citadel of Cairo, serving throughout history as both a royal residence and military barracks, and the Mohammed Ali Mosque, one of the most prominent Ottoman-style landmarks in Cairo. Next, we stop at a local jewellery shop that specialises in customised gold and silver cartouches, before visiting a weaving workshop to learn about locally made Egyptian carpet. This afternoon, we will check into our accommodation and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 22 - Cairo
Our first stop of the day is the historic El Moez Street, one of the oldest streets in historic Cario. We’ll then wander around the 14th century Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, a major souk in Cairo’s Islamic District. Famous for its handmade crafts, it’s also the perfect place to enjoy a traditional Arabic coffee whilst soaking up the local bustling atmosphere. There are no fixed prices here, so make sure you practice your haggling skills! Deluxe Experience Tour the historic Manial Palace, one of the most impressive palaces in Egypt, and discover an ancient nilometer. Built by Prince Mohammad Ali in the early 20th century, the Manial Palace is truly a complex that will leave us inspired. It’s interior is a beautiful and fascinating mix of Ottoman, Moorish, Persian and European rococo styles, lavishly adorned with stunning tiles, chandeliers and carved ceilings. The palace’s gardens are also impressive, featuring exotic and rare tropical plants collected by the prince. We’ll also get the chance to uncover an ancient nilometer. This fascinating device was used to track the rise and the fall of the Nile River during the annual flooding season. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, exploring the city at your own pace or simply relaxing! Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group farewell dinner.
Day 23 - Depart Cairo
Today marks the completion of our incredible adventure across Egypt and Jordan. Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to Egypt and begin our journey home. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! Please note, in order to undertake the following optional tours additional post tour accommodation in Cairo may be required. Please check with your Travel Specialist for details. Optional Excursion Coptic Cairo - Discover the ancient sites & culture of Coptic Christians throughout Old Cairo. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only. Optional Excursion Islamic Cairo - Visit the Gayer Anderson Museum, Ibn Toulon Mosque & El Sultan Hassan Mosque. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only. Optional Excursion National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation – Displaying the civilisation of Egypt from the prehistoric period to the present era. 3 hours – from $80pp US. Cash only.
Day 24 - Arrive Australia
Day 24 - Arrive Australia
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Bunnik Tours

With over 25 years experience and a multitude of industry awards, Bunnik Tours' overarching aim remains simple: to provide a better way for travellers to see the world. We do this by creating a series of unique holiday experiences: - Small group tours of no more than 20 passengers, specifically designed to capture the essence of the places we visit. Tours that provide the perfect balance between organised sightseeing and free time for independent discovery. Holidays that visit the famous attractions but also wander off the usual tourist trail. Complete and stress-free tour packages with accommodation, guides, tipping, and meals included (and much more!). Independent travel packages are a flexible way to visit one or more destinations. They can also be added onto our small group tours for a unique experience! A strong belief in responsible travel and sustainable tourism. We have always been a family of travellers at heart, exploring the world around us with equal parts wonder, good humour and curiosity. As a family business we understand that our family's name and reputation is at stake every time we sell a holiday. We take your trust very seriously and look forward to the day when we can help you explore the world. Dennis Bunnik is the chair of the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) and we are actively involved in helping to improve the overall professionalism of the travel industry. Discover our passion for this incredible planet and its inhabitants, and experience your tour the ‘Bunnik Way’! - Dennis, Marion & Sacha Bunnik

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Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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