Cairo to Istanbul
Trip Details
From the Land of the Pharaohs to modern-day Istanbul via Jordan and Syria, travel through countries that bear the legacies of Islamic, Christian, Persian and Roman civilisations. Discover deserts and mountains, camp under the stars and float in the Dead Sea, marvel at Petra and wander among the bizarre fairy chimneys of Cappadocia - experience it all on this quintessential adventure through the intriguing Middle East.
Itinerary
Day 1 Cairo
Why not arrive early to discover the ancient wonders of Cairo? The Egyptian Museum holds a glittering array of treasures and the Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza inspire wonder and awe.
Day 2 Mt Sinai
Climb to the summit of holy Mt Sinai for panoramic desert views, then visit the monastery of St Catherine, built at the site of the burning bush.
Day 3 Red Sea Beach Camp
Stay in beach huts and use free time to laze on the beach, snorkel the Red Sea's underwater world and tuck into tasty seafood. With warm sunsets, spectacular reefs and golden sand, this area of immense natural beauty is the perfect spot for serious relaxation.
Day 4 Aqaba
Step onto a ferry and cross into Jordan to spend the night in Jordan's only seaport.
Day 5 Wadi Rum
Bunker down in a desert camp with Bedouin tribespeople. A safari reveals the sublime beauty of the desert - sand dunes are interrupted by lunar-like rocky peaks, some of which bear carved inscriptions from ancient civilisations.
Days 6-7 Petra
Explore this astounding long-lost city carved out of a cliff face. A local guide helps to reveal the history of this ancient wonder.
Days 8-9 Madaba
Head to the coast for a soak in the Dead Sea. The salinity of the Dead Sea makes for effortless floating and the mud is known for it's healing properties. Make a stop at Mt Nebo, then continue onto Madaba.
Days 10-11 Damascus
Cross the border into Syria and roam the alleyways of the ancient city of Damascus.
Day 12 Palmyra
Explore the remains of this former Silk Road city that rise hauntingly from the desert.
Day 13 Krak des Chevaliers
Visit this imposing fortress which remains one of the world's most impressive castles.
Days 14-15 Aleppo
Revel in the excitement of the souq and perhaps enjoy a rejuvenating scrub in a Syrian hamam.
Days 18-20 Goreme
Be spellbound by the Cappadocia region, famous for its underground cities, whimsical fairy chimneys and stone churches.
Day 21 Istanbul
A fascinating fusion of East and West, Istanbul begs to be explored.
Day 16 Sanliurfa/Homestay
Cross the border into Turkey and revel in the exotic charms of this pilgrimage town. Enjoy warm hospitality and a spicy homemade meal while staying with a friendly local family.
Day 17 Mt Nemrut
Be entranced by the colossal stone heads of Mt Nemrut.
