Cairo to Istanbul

Itinerary

Day 1 Cairo

Perhaps arrive early to discover the ancient wonders of Giza. A visit to the Egyptian Museum is also highly recommended.

Day 2 Mt Sinai

Climb to the historic summit of Mt Sinai for panoramic desert views.

Day 3 Red Sea Beach Camp

Stay in beach huts and use free time to relax, snorkel the underwater world of the Red Sea and tuck into simple tasty meals accompanied by gorgeous vistas.

Day 4 Aqaba

Cross into biblical Jordan and relax at the seaside resort of Aqaba. Once a trading hub between the Red Sea and the Far East, this city is now known for its completely unspoilt coral reefs.

Day 5 Wadi Rum

Spend the night in a desert camp with local Bedouin tribespeople. Awake the next morning amid soaring sandstone cliffs and craggy rock formations.

Days 6-7 Petra

Explore captivating Petra, an astounding long-lost city carved out of a rose-coloured cliff face.

Days 8-9 Madaba

Float in the Dead Sea and wander through Madaba, famous for its beautiful Byzantine mosaics. In Amman, perhaps climb the ruined Citadel for outstanding views.

Days 10-11 Damascus

Cross the border into Syria and roam the streets of ancient Damascus to learn the history of Salah ad-Din, the greatest Arabic hero ever.

Day 12 Palmyra

The remains of this former Silk Road city rise hauntingly from the desert.

Day 13 Krak des Chevaliers

This imposing fortress remains one of the world's most impressive castles. The view of the Krak des Chevaliers from the Intrepid hotel is a trip highlight.

Days 14-15 Aleppo

Revel in the excitement of the souq and perhaps enjoy a rejuvenating scrub in a local Syrian hamam.

Day 16 Antakya

Across the border, wander through a meandering warren of streets for an introductory taste of Turkey.

Day 17 Ihlara Valley

Meet the locals and head out on enlivening hikes in the beautiful Ihlara Valley.

Days 18-20 Goreme

Be delighted by the underground cities of Goreme and the whimsical fairy chimneys of Cappadocia.

Day 21 Istanbul

A fascinating fusion of East and West, Istanbul begs to be explored.