
Egypt & Jordan: Pyramids to Petra
11 days, 4 cities | 15 days with Dubai extension |
Why go?
If any trip was like diving head-first into a history book, it’s this one. From seeing the only remaining Ancient Wonder IRL to floating above the endless desert sand dunes, you’ll experience awe like never before. If the thought of leaving the adventure behind gives you FOMO, keep the fun going with four extra nights in Dubai, the city of the future. Travelers on the Dubai extension will enjoy experiences like a guided tour of the city’s record-shattering landmarks, optional excursions to the Burj Khalifa, Abu Dhabi, and Farewell Dinner on a traditional Dhow cruise, plus continued Tour Director support.
What you'll get
- 9 nights in handpicked accommodations
- 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 5 dinners
- Expert Tour Director
- 24/7 support
- Insider tours of the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, the Dead Sea, Petra, and more
- A Jeep 4x4 desert tour of Wadi Rum
Picture yourself
- Wondering if ancient aliens exist as you gaze at the Pyramids
- Pinching yourself in front of the Great Sphinx
- Marveling at the wondrous ruins of Petra
- Floating in the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth
- Flying high above the desert in a hot air balloon
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Friday, 9am–8pm ET
Saturday, 10am–6pm ET
Itinerary

Day 1: Overnight flight
Brush up on your hieroglyphs, board your overnight flight to Egypt, and get some shut eye—just channel your inner mummy. You’re about to uncover a trip you’ll never forget.
(This tour requires a visa for U.S. citizens. Check entry requirements or call us with questions at 888-340-5333.)
Day 2: Arrive in Giza
Welcome to Giza, where “ancient” takes on a whole new meaning. Just across the Nile from Cairo, Giza is home to some of the oldest and most awe-inspiring landmarks on Earth—the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. From the hum of Cairo traffic to the call to prayer echoing across the desert, Egypt wastes no time sweeping you into its rhythm.
- Meet an EF representative and fellow travelers as they arrive at the airport.
- Transfer to your hotel to check in and check out your room.
- Refuel with dinner at the hotel buffet or enjoy room service to eat in bed before you pass out. Fancy.
- Rest up before your adventure begins in the AM.
Ask your Tour Director:
- Why pharaohs chose Giza as their final resting place instead of Cairo. Hint: the Nile may have something to do with it.
- How to tell real papyrus souvenirs from fake ones.
- Where to get the best koshari (Egypt’s national comfort food—carbs on carbs on carbs).
- What’s hidden inside the pyramids (and how much it costs to enter).
- How Egyptologists cracked the code of hieroglyphs.
- Theories behind the Sphinx’s missing nose.
Day 3: Sightseeing tour of Cairo + Welcome Dinner
You’ve seen the photos and read the textbooks—but nothing, nothing, compares to standing face-to-face with Egypt’s ancient history. Today’s the day to brush up on your hieroglyphics and practice your best “Walk Like an Egyptian” as you explore the vibrant capital.
In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner of local cuisine and drinks with fellow travelers at the hotel.
- Get up close and personal with 5,000 years of history at the Egyptian Museum. From ancient mummies to intricately carved statues, this museum is the ultimate time machine.
- Wander through Coptic Cairo, one of the oldest Christian communities in the world. See the Hanging Church, built atop the gates of a Roman fortress, and learn how Christianity thrived here centuries before it reached Europe.
- Float like a butterfly to the Muhammed Ali Mosque (named for the founder of modern Egypt, not the boxer). Perched within the Salah El-Din Citadel, this grand Ottoman-style mosque boasts sweeping views of Cairo’s skyline.
- Enjoy your Welcome Dinner! Hosted by your Tour Director, this kickoff dinner is all about getting to know the others in your group and easing into the rest of the trip ahead.
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar: A labyrinth of shops, spices, and shiny trinkets where you can haggle for souvenirs and practice your bargaining skills.
Al-Azhar Park: Escape the chaos and enjoy manicured gardens and skyline views—especially magical at sunset.
Day 4: Pyramids of Giza + the Sphinx
It’s here. You're seeing the oldest and only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World: the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. This is not a drill, people. Built over 4,500 years ago, this is one of humankind’s greatest accomplishments in the flesh.
- Tour the grounds and take plenty of pics at the Giza Necropolis, where you’ll learn about the construction, excavation, and the pharaohs buried here.
- Experience the unrivaled majesty of the Great Pyramids and gaze up at the massive limestone blocks that once gleamed white under the sun. Each pyramid is a marvel of precision, perfectly aligned with the stars.
- Shake paws with the Great Sphinx—part lion, part human, 100% awesome.
Day 5: Fly to Jordan + tour Amman
Today, swap one ancient capital for another. You’re off to Amman, Jordan—a city that blends ancient ruins, modern cafes, and some of the friendliest people on Earth. Expect bustling souks, golden mosques, and panoramic views from its seven hills.
- Hop on a morning flight to Amman, Jordan.
- Meet your Jordanian Tour Director and set off for a quick city orientation.
- Explore Amman’s mix of old and new—from Roman ruins to trendy rooftop lounges.
- Head to the local souk for dinner on your own. Pro tip: order mansaf, Jordan’s national dish (slow-cooked lamb over rice with yogurt sauce).
Day 6: Tour the Jerash ruins + Dead Sea swim
Today, travel back to the glory days of Rome—no time machine needed. The ancient city of Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman towns outside Italy. After walking in Caesar’s footsteps, you’ll descend to Earth’s lowest point: the Dead Sea, where floating is not just allowed, it’s inevitable.
- Strut down the colonnaded streets of Jerash like an emperor, stopping at Hadrian’s Arch, built in honor of the Roman emperor’s visit in 129 AD.
- Get in the ring at the Hippodrome, an ancient Greek arena used for horse racing—and picture ancient chariot races and roaring crowds as you explore this massive arena.
- Float effortlessly on water nearly ten times saltier than the ocean—just don’t shave right before!
- Head back to Amman for a night of free time.
Rainbow Street: Lined with cafes, art galleries, and hookah lounges—this is Amman’s most Instagrammable strip.
Amman Citadel: Standing on the highest hill, it’s home to ancient temples and unbeatable city views.
Day 7: Travel to Wadi Musa via Al Numeira + Little Petra
Today you’re going to Wadi Musa, or “Valley of Moses,” the nearest town to the wonder that is Petra. On the way, learn about sustainable development at Al Numeira and visit Little Petra, or as we like to call it, Petra Jr.
- Stop at Al Numeira and learn how locals are developing sustainable farming and eco-tourism projects in Jordan’s desert landscape. Then share a traditional Jordanian meal while learning about community-driven conservation.
- Continue to Little Petra, a town built by the Nabateans in the First Century CE. Historians believe that it was the go-to spot for trading caravans to service their horses and restock their provisions on the way to and from the main city of Petra. Today, it is just as "whoa” as Big Petra, but cuter and with fewer people.
- Arrive in Wadi Musa and spend the evening relaxing or exploring the town’s cozy restaurants and shops.
Petra by night: If it’s running, this candlelit experience lets you see the Siq and Treasury illuminated by over a thousand flickering lanterns—a once-in-a-lifetime sight. (Ask your Tour Director about timing.)
Wadi Musa town center: Grab some mint tea or a fresh juice at a local café and people-watch—it’s the perfect mix of locals, guides, and travelers gearing up for Petra.
Turkish bath visit: After a few dusty days, unwind with a traditional Middle Eastern steam, scrub, and massage session.
Day 8: Guided tour of Petra ruins + arrive in Wadi Rum + optional Wadi Rum Bubble Tent Stay
Cue the theme from Indiana Jones. Today’s the day you enter Petra, the “Rose City” carved entirely from sandstone cliffs. Later, you’ll trade one wonder for another as you venture into the red desert of Wadi Rum.
- Follow a narrow canyon known as the Siq Walk and watch as it suddenly opens up to reveal the world-famous Al-Khazneh (The Treasury)—one of the most jaw-dropping sights on Earth.
- Learn about the Nabataeans, the ancient traders who built Petra around 300 BC and engineered sophisticated water systems that made this desert city thrive.
- Transfer to Wadi Rum, a desert landscape so otherworldly it’s been used as a stand-in for Mars in countless films like The Martian, Dune, and Star Wars.
- Enjoy traditional Bedouin hospitality and local dishes cooked in the sand at an included dinner under the stars.
Day 9: Wadi Rum desert Jeep tour + optional Wadi Rum hot air balloon ride
Today you’re in for a thrill ride: a Jeep 4x4 tour of the Wadi Rum Desert Valley, an UNESCO-protected desert valley of sandstone mountains, natural arches, and infinite silence, aka the closest thing there is to Mars on Earth. Check out red sand dunes, wild rock formations, and even the house Lawrence of Arabia lived in.
- Climb into your 4x4 and experience Wadi Rum with an expert local guide. Ride through sand dunes and rocky canyons, stopping at iconic sites like the Lawrence Spring and Khazali Canyon, filled with ancient inscriptions. Then learn about nomadic desert life, traditional tea rituals, and the area’s cinematic fame.
- Return to camp for an included dinner under the stars—literally. Professional astronomers will help you spot constellations, planets, and maybe even the Milky Way.
Sandboarding: Rent a board from a Bedouin guide and glide down Wadi Rum’s red dunes. (Falling is half the fun.)
Day 10: Arrive in Amman + Farewell Dinner
You’re back in Amman, the White City, and the perfect place to spend your last day in Jordan. Where did the time go? We’ll tell you—making new friends, exploring ancient pyramids, and stargazing in the desert.
In the evening, it’s time for your Farewell Dinner to relive the best stories, the funniest inside jokes, and all the unforgettable moments you’ve shared.
- Stop at Kerak en route to Amman to explore this 12th-century Crusader fortress perched on a hilltop. Its labyrinth of tunnels and chambers is straight out of a medieval fantasy.
- Arrive in Amman and enjoy your final free afternoon—shop for souvenirs, relax in a café, or simply soak in the city’s buzz one last time.
- Share some laughs (and maybe shed a few tears) at an included Farewell Dinner with your group.
Day 11: Fly home
Ma’a salama ‘asadqayaa!
Translation: Goodbye, friends! Your next destination awaits—home. But this isn’t goodbye. It’s “See you later.” The only question is, where?
Dubai extension
Ready for five days of palm-shaped islands, futuristic skylines, and golden hour views from 125 stories up? Dubai is a bold, glitzy, over-the-top playground in the middle of the desert—home to world records, luxurious shopping, and some of the most jaw-dropping architecture on Earth. Think: indoor ski resorts, yacht cruises, and ATMs that dispense gold.
Day 11: Fly to Dubai via Amman
Leave the desert landscapes and ancient wonders of Jordan behind as you jet off to Dubai—an ultramodern marvel rising from the Arabian sands. This is a city of ultimate side quests, where you can snowboard indoors in the morning, hit the beach by noon, and dine in the clouds by night. From literal sky-scraping towers to luxury cars, Dubai takes “extra” to a whole new level—and you're about to see just how far the future can go.
Day 12: Guided city tour of modern Dubai + optional visit to Burj Khalifa
With its dazzling skyline and pristine beaches, Dubai is the epitome of a futuristic metropolis—you can almost see the flying cars zooming across the sky. Everywhere you turn is a record-breaking example of modern design and architecture. Flashy hotpots, trendy neighborhoods, desert adventures, history-steeped culture; this is a city that blends traditional with ultra-futuristic.
Today, explore the buzz of Dubai Marina, stroll the iconic Palm Jumeirah with a photo stop at the Atlantis resort, and take in sweeping city views from the Palm Observatory Deck. Then wander the charming canals and boutiques of Souk Madinat Jumeirah—where old-world vibes meet modern luxury.
Dubai by night: Among the dozens of things Dubai is famous for is its glittering nightlife, where the city transforms into a playground of luxe lounges, rooftop bars, and clubs.
Day 13: Free day in Dubai
Enjoy a day in Dubai without spending a thing. Start your morning with a peaceful walk through historic neighborhoods, where traditional architecture and local culture offer a glimpse into the city's past. Wander through vibrant markets filled with color and energy, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere. Take in the contrast between old and new as you explore modern cityscapes, admire futuristic skylines, and relax by the waterfront or on a public beach. As the sun sets, enjoy the city's lively evening vibes with music, light displays, and a cool breeze — all without spending a dirham.
Al Seef: Enjoy a peacefull stroll in this charming heritage district where traditional Emirati architecture meets the Dubai Creek’s calm waters.
Day 14: Optional full-day Abu Dhabi city tour + Farewell Dinner
Another wide-open day in DUBAI? Um, yes please. Soak up the sun on your last day at the beach (JBR is busy but free and easily accessible), hit up another souk for souvenirs, or check out the massive Dubai Mall and its ginormous aquarium. If you want to see another side of the UAE, opt for a full-day tour of glitzy Dubai’s laid-back cultural cousin, the nearby capital city of Abu Dhabi.
In the evening, it’s time for your Farewell Dinner. Hosted by your Tour Director aboard a traditional Arab dhow boat, this dinner is your chance to relive the best stories, the funniest inside jokes, and all the unforgettable moments you’ve shared with new friends.
Dubai Mall: Indulge in some retail therapy with 1200+ stores, over 200 restaurants, an aquarium, an ice rink, a spectacular fountain show, and views of the Burj Khalifa next door.
Souk shopping: For a more cultural experience, Dubai is full of souks, from the famous gold souk for authentic, affordable gold jewelry, to a souk just for spices, herbs, and dried fruit.
Day 15: Fly home
The time has come to finally transfer to Dubai airport for your flight home. But this isn’t goodbye. It’s “See you later.” The only question is, where?
Which trip type is right for you?
Essential: Room with 3+ other travelers in conveniently located hostels. For budget-conscious extroverts who love a group moment.
Plus: Room with just one other person in 3- or 4-star hotels. Perfect for people who value privacy and recharging in their own space.
Accommodations
We handpick every accommodation and focus on locations and properties where local culture is at your doorstep. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used properties for this tour.

Mazayen Camp
This luxury camp is located in the heart of the desert and close to the old village of Wadi Rum. Guests will enjoy an on-site restaurant with mountain views, lounging areas around the camp, and a community telescope. Nearby...

Cairo Pyramids Hotel
This airy hotel is located in Giza on the west bank of the Nile. Guests will enjoy the outdoor pool which offers views of the pyramids, a garden terrace and onsite restaurants and bars. Nearby, you’ll find the world-famous...

Petra Icon Hotel
This modern hotel is located near the famous archaeological site of Petra. Guests will enjoy a breakfast buffet, 24-hour front desk services, and comfortable accommodations. Nearby, you’ll find the Petra Museum, several...
Customize with excursions
Enhance your experience with hand-picked optional excursions—designed to add adventure, culture, and unforgettable moments to your journey.
Traveler photos
Reviews
Weather
Giza, Egypt
Weather averages
Amman, Jordan
Weather averages
Petra, Jordan
Weather averages
Flights
When you include flights with your trip, our dedicated team of experts will handle all the details, so your travel experience is as seamless as possible. Just select your dates and airport to see pricing.
Perks of booking flights with us
- Airport transfers to and from accommodations
- Ability to pay for flights over time, interest free
- Convenience of travel plans all in one booking
- 24/7 guidance through flight changes or delays
- Free delayed and lost bag tracking with Blue Ribbon Bags
- Locked-in price (barring post-booking changes)
- Flexibility for pre- or post-trip travel
- Major international airlines only
Learn more
FAQ
Egypt and Jordan are calling, book the trip! We recommend booking as soon as possible, this not only secures your spot on the trip, it also allows you the most time to pay for your trip. The closer we get to departure the more challenging securing your reservation becomes.
You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you'll visit on your trip here. Simply type in the name of the tour and you'll see all of the entry requirements including passport validity, visas, and electronic transit authorizations.
Note that this information will default to US passport holders. If you hold a passport from outside the US, please make sure to consult your country's immigration and travel site to determine the best documentation needed for your travels.
Passport Validity:
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months passed the end of your travels. Travelers are responsible for staying up to date with entry requirements and should check for the most current requirements by referencing the U.S. Department of State or Government of Canada website.
Get ready for a journey that feels like stepping into the pages of an ancient epic—this Egypt and Jordan adventure is packed with timeless landscapes, legendary landmarks, and rich cultural traditions that bring history to life. In Egypt, you’ll experience the awe of ancient temples, vibrant markets, and the warm hospitality of a culture that’s been welcoming travelers for thousands of years. From the energy of Cairo to the serenity of the Nile, every moment is steeped in story and wonder.
Then it’s off to Jordan, where desert landscapes and archaeological marvels take center stage. Whether you’re exploring the rose-red city of Petra, floating in the Dead Sea, or stargazing in Wadi Rum, Jordan offers a deep connection to the past and a peaceful, welcoming vibe. Expect warm days, cooler evenings, and a pace that invites you to slow down and soak it all in. Both countries celebrate community, tradition, and generosity—so be ready for flavorful meals, heartfelt conversations, and experiences that stay with you long after the trip ends. This is a journey for travelers who crave meaning, beauty, and a little bit of magic.
Groups average around 30 travelers but can range from 20 up to 44. Generally, the average age is 27. The group size allows for plenty of opportunities to socialize and explore together, making it a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and form lasting connections. Whether you're a solo traveler or coming with friends, you'll find a supportive and energetic group atmosphere. Check out our Rules of the Road and the role all travelers play in creating a fun and inclusive group.
Traveling solo? Have no fear! Over 60% of our travelers join an Ultimate Break tour solo. It doesn't matter if you're an introvert, an extrovert, or anything in between - our tours are designed for you to build connections that will last a lifetime. With experiences like our included Welcome and Farewell dinners, we'll make sure you have time to get to know your fellow travelers. First time traveling with us? Check out our resources for first time travelers here
When you book flights with us you’ll get:
- The ability to roll the cost of your airfare into our interest free monthly payment plan.
- One checked bag per traveler included.
- Expert guidance on how to work with the airline when flight delays and cancellations occur.
- Transfers to and from the airport on your tour's arrival and departure dates.
- Flexible rebooking options if your itinerary changes.
- Flexibility around your arrival and departure airports. You’ll have the option to fly in or out of most airports if you want to add any independent travel before or after your tour.
- Assurance that you will only be booked on airlines that meet our rigorous safety standards.
If you have preferences regarding an airline or are traveling with someone and wish to be on the same flight as them, you can read more about flying with your friend here. We're always happy to look into it however we can't guarantee we will always be able to accommodate.
Flight details are released for preview 60 days before departure and your e-ticket and confirmation number will be available 30 days before you depart.
When you book flights on your own, you’re responsible for:
- Transfers to and from the airport on your tour’s arrival and departure dates.
- Rebooking your flight and any associated fees if your flight is cancelled or delayed.
- Rebooking your flight and any associated fees if your itinerary changes or the tour is cancelled.
- Arriving and departing on time; no compensation will be provided for missed tour inclusions.
We recommend you avoid checking a bag, but if that’s not possible, you should ensure that you bring extra clothes and essentials in a carry-on bag as a precaution. You'll need to refer to your airline’s website for weight limits.
For more information on flying with Ultimate Break, check out the Flights section of our Help Center
When traveling to Egypt it's important to prepare for a long travel day. Flying from the US, it is not uncommon to have multiple legs of your journey.
Generally, expect to depart on day one in the early morning/afternoon, arriving to Egypt in the late afternoon/evening the next day. Direct flights to Egypt are incredibly limited, as such you should expect 1-3 layovers. Worried about jetlag, delayed flights, or just want more time to explore, we strongly encourage extending your stay to arrive early or stay late. This way you can settle in without the stress of missing anything.
We recommend budgeting $40-$50 per day to cover tipping, food, and shopping. You know your spending habits best, if you want to do it all budget on the higher end.
On this trip you'll use both the Egyptian Pound and the Jordanian Dinar. If you are bringing USD, we suggest bringing small, crisp bills. We strongly advise that you take debit and credit cards (ideally with a chip), which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed. Make sure to check with your bank or credit card company about withdrawal fees and/or foreign exchange fees. While better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, ordering currency from your local bank may be an option.
Your Tour Director is with you during your entire trip. They're part logistics master, making sure you get to see all that we have planned; part rockstar, sharing with your local hotspots; and part guru, sharing and inviting you into the culture. Our Tour Directors are fully trained and ready to support you in making your journey safe, seamless, and unforgettable!
In some locations you will be met by a local guide who will lead you through our traveler-inspired walking tour. You'll get some local history and culture while also making sure you hit the photo stops. You'll walk away with an insider's perspective and some great pictures.
On Plus trips, you will be in a room with one other traveler unless a single room upgrade is purchased. Roommates are assigned randomly based on gender unless a specific roommate is requested in advance. You can do this at the time of booking or in your online account up to 60 days before departure.
While it is considered safe to travel to Egypt and Jordan, there are certain safety protocols that we've put in place that are different than other parts of the world. Like any destination though, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and follow basic safety guidelines. Pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious with strangers offering unsolicited help or deals.
Here are a few additional points:
- Safety: Your group will be accompanied by a local guard who will ensure your group travels safely. As such, there is limited free time included on this tour.
- Health: Talking with your healthcare provider about any vaccinations or medication you may want to consider. Here are some additional tips for traveling with medication and traveling with allergies.
Here are some additional tips for traveling with medication and traveling with allergies.
- International Data Plan: In the event you need to get in touch with your Tour Director or Ultimate Break while abroad, it’s important to invest in an international data plan. Call your cell phone provider to understand their plans or look into purchasing a sim card.
You can learn more about our safety commitment here.
Ultimate Break trips are a welcome environment for all. While we work hard to cultivate an inclusive environment in our groups, we recognize some people may have additional reservations based on their identity that they need to consider while traveling. Check out some resources on our identity and international travel page and reach out if you have any questions.
This is your classic sightseeing tour. Think lots of walking and taking in all the sites. On these tours, be prepared to:
- Walk a minimum of 10k steps per day (more if you add excursions)
- Use public transportation
- Climb on and off a motor coach unassisted
- Manage your own luggage (including carrying luggage upstairs if there is no elevator)
- Climb occasional stairs, hills and navigate various terrains (think cobblestones) to different sites
- Stand for periods of time during guided commentary and photo stops
Excursions are available for purchase at a discounted rate prior to departure. Some excursions may be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app but are subject to availability and will be more expensive.
We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
When you travel with Ultimate Break, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
Learn more about EF's Impact approach here.
If you're itching to travel a tad longer and want to experience another destination (or even country) during your tour, consider adding your tour's extension. Some tours offer a tour extension giving you a few more days to explore with your Tour Director and other tour members.
We suggest adding the tour extension when booking your tour. If you've already made your reservation and would like to add the extension, we'll do our best to make it happen. The sooner you let us know, the better, so we can adjust your flight dates and airport gateways as needed.
Your safety is priority #1
Our parent company EF has been ensuring the safety of travelers abroad since 1965 with:
- 24/7 global on-call support
- Highly trained Tour Directors
- Quality & safety checks on accommodations
- 50,000 EF staff on the ground in 50 countries











