16-Night Israel Jordan and Egypt Tour

Travelers seeking a comprehensive adventure through some of the Middle East’s most iconic locations will find this 16-night Israel, Jordan, and Egypt tour offers a well-organized way to connect the dots. Designed for those who prefer to leave the planning and logistics to experts, this trip provides a seamless experience from Tel Aviv to Cairo, with expert guides and included transportation, accommodations, and meals.

What sets this tour apart? We love the mixture of culture and historical sites, the convenience of border crossings managed by local drivers, and the opportunity to see magnificent landscapes and ancient ruins without the hassle of booking each leg separately. However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have found the transition from Jordan to Egypt challenging, especially with the early starts and border procedures.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, cultural explorers, and those craving an authentic yet stress-free Middle Eastern journey. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity, especially in places like Petra or Mount Sinai, and want to experience multiple countries in one trip, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: No need to juggle separate bookings; everything from transport to lodging is included.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable local guides help you understand the significance of each site.
• Efficient logistics: Border crossings and flights are managed for smoother transitions.
• Variety of highlights: From Jerusalem’s Old City to Cairo’s pyramids, this tour hits many must-see spots.
• Value for money: Included accommodations, many meals, and tours contribute to a competitive price.
• Potential challenge: The Jordan to Egypt segment can be tiring and tricky, as indicated by some reviews.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Tel Aviv: A Warm Welcome and Cultural Introduction

Your journey begins in Israel’s vibrant city, Tel Aviv. The initial transfer from Ben Gurion Airport sets the tone, offering a smooth start with airport-to-hotel logistics covered. From here, you’re introduced to the region’s modern buzz alongside historical touches, like a quick visit to Nazareth, where you’ll see the Church of Annunciation and St. Joseph, and explore the Sea of Galilee, Cana, and Capernaum.

All this is packed into an 8-hour day, with free time to absorb the spiritual atmosphere and perhaps even be baptized in the Jordan River waters at Yardenit — a genuine highlight for many. Reviewers appreciated the “excellent guides” and “stunning views,” especially during the day’s scenic drives.

Exploring Coastal and Historic Sites

The next few days are dedicated to Israel’s coast and ancient cities. Caesarea National Park impresses visitors with its Roman theater and hippodrome, while Haifa’s beautiful Bahai Gardens create a tranquil backdrop for a walk. The visit to Acre, with its Crusader walls and Turkish prison, offers a tangible connection to the region’s layered history.

Traveling through the Old City of Jerusalem, you’ll walk along the Via Dolorosa, stand at the Western Wall, and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. The guide’s explanations help you understand the significance of each site, a common praise from past travelers.

A Day at the Dead Sea and Masada

Crossing into the Judean Desert, you’ll ascend Masada by cable car — a highlight for many. The well-preserved ruins and sweeping desert views make this a memorable stop, especially for history lovers. The float in the Dead Sea’s mineral-rich waters offers a relaxing, almost surreal experience, often described as a “must-do.”

Some reviews mention the early start (7:20 am) and the long hours involved, but most agree the scenery and historical sites make it worthwhile. The inclusion of a swim in the Dead Sea adds a tangible sense of adventure.

From Petra to Mount Sinai: A Cross-Border Adventure

Border crossings from Israel into Jordan, and later from Jordan into Egypt, are managed by local drivers, making this transition smoother than you might expect. The journey to Petra is a highlight, with the famous Treasury and other ancient structures conveying a sense of wonder. Many travelers mention Petra by Night as a magical experience, although it’s about a $15 extra cost—something to budget for.

Following Petra, the trip takes you to Mt. Sinai, where you can climb to witness the sunrise. The climb is part of the tour’s adventurous spirit, though some past reviewers found the early climb and border procedures a bit taxing.

Discovering Egypt’s Iconic Pyramids and Temples

In Cairo, the tour visits the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, with optional camel rides that many find fun and memorable. The tour also covers the Step Pyramid of Djoser and Sakkara, offering a broad look at Egypt’s architectural evolution. A visit to the Egyptian Museum provides a glimpse into the wealth of artifacts and ancient treasures.

In Aswan, the cruise along the Nile includes stops at the High Dam and the temple of Philae, with visits to Edfu and Kom Ombo temples. The cruise experience allows for a relaxed exploration of Egypt’s riverine scenery, with many travelers praising the guides’ knowledge of local history and the Nubian show for entertainment.

Final Days in Cairo: A Cultural Wrap-Up

The last days feature visits to the Mosque of Muhammad Ali and the Citadel, along with leisure time in Cairo to wander or revisit favorite spots. The mix of guided tours and free time provides flexibility — a common request from travelers who want a taste of the city’s vibrant life.

Practical Insights and Why This Tour Works

Transportation and logistics are a core strength here. The use of climate-controlled vans and organized border crossings mean you spend less time stressing over arrangements and more time soaking in sights. The included flights help streamline the journey, although the tour notes no domestic flights on Fridays, so some overnight stays in Tel Aviv are planned then.

The group size is capped at 50 travelers, which balances social interaction with manageable logistics, and guides are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness. Some travelers mention that the tour can be physically demanding, especially in sites like Petra and Mount Sinai, so moderate fitness is recommended.

Accommodation and meals are included, providing good value especially considering the range of sites visited and the extensive travel involved. Meals are often included during tours, allowing you to try local cuisine without additional hassle.

What Could Be Better?

A notable drawback, highlighted in reviews, is the transition from Jordan to Egypt, which some found exhausting and poorly organized. Early mornings and border procedures can be stressful, and the limited group size might make this segment feel especially intense. If you’re sensitive to long travel days or border crossings, this is worth considering.

Price and Value

At $3,478 per person, the price covers most logistical details, accommodations, many meals, and entrance fees, making it a relatively good deal for a 17-day multi-country tour. You gain access to top historical sites and the convenience of guided transport, which can save significant planning time and potential headaches.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for history and culture enthusiasts who want to see key sites in Israel, Jordan, and Egypt without creating their own complicated itinerary. It suits travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and those who appreciate guided insights. It’s also a good fit if you’re looking to experience multiple countries in one go, making the most of included flights and transportation.

However, if you prefer relaxed travel with minimal border crossings or dislike early mornings and long days, you might want to consider shorter, more focused trips or private options.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join, but they should be accompanied by an adult and be comfortable with moderate physical activity, especially at sites like Petra and Mount Sinai.

Are flights included?
The tour includes flights from Tel Aviv to Eilat and Cairo, but note that there are no domestic flights on Fridays, so overnight stays in Tel Aviv are scheduled then.

What about visa requirements?
Visas are not included. Egypt requires a $60 USD visa, and Jordan requests $75 USD per person. Be sure to plan ahead.

How are the border crossings handled?
Local drivers assist with border procedures, helping make transitions between countries smoother and less stressful.

Are meals included?
Yes, 15 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 3 dinners are included, offering good value and a taste of local cuisine.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 50 travelers, balancing social interaction with manageable logistics.

Is this tour physically demanding?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended. Sites like Petra and Mount Sinai involve walking and climbing, sometimes on uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This 16-night Israel, Jordan, and Egypt tour offers a comprehensive way to see some of the Middle East’s most iconic sites with the comfort of guided logistics and included accommodations. Its strength lies in the variety of highlights—from Jerusalem’s sacred sites to Petra’s ancient mysteries and Cairo’s pyramids—delivered in a relatively efficient schedule.

While the border crossing segments can be tiring, most travelers find the experience rewarding and well worth the effort. With knowledgeable guides, good value, and authentic experiences, this trip is a strong choice for those eager to explore these historically loaded countries in one memorable journey.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience and are prepared for some early mornings and physical activity. For those looking to maximize sightseeing without worrying about details, this tour delivers solid value and a deeply enriching adventure through the heart of the Middle East.