Egypt & Jordan
NEW DATES
17 Day Custom Tour Nov 28-Dec 14 2021
From the land of the pharaohs
to the land of one of the greatest archaeological sites in the world,
explore the magnificent sites of Egypt and Jordan.
Highlights include:
7 Night Nile River Cruise
w/4 Nights Cairo Pre-Cruise
4 Nights Jordan, including Petra – The Rose-Red City twice as old as time!
$10,599 $10,324 per person double occupancy Category C Balcony
$11,999 $11,724 per person double occupancy Category B Balcony
$12,199 $11,924 per person double occupancy Category A Balcony
$12,399 $12,124 per person double occupancy Category S
Balcony $12,999 $12,724 per person double occupancy Category L Balcony
$9,299 per person double occupancy Category E Window
$9,599 per person double occupancy Category D Window
*Special rates valid if deposit received by June 26, 2020
NEW DATES
17 Day Custom Tour Nov 28-Dec 14 2021
From the land of the pharaohs
to the land of one of the greatest archaeological sites in the world,
explore the magnificent sites of Egypt and Jordan.
Highlights include:
7 Night Nile River Cruise
w/4 Nights Cairo Pre-Cruise
4 Nights Jordan, including Petra – The Rose-Red City twice as old as time!
$10,599 $10,324 per person double occupancy Category C Balcony
$11,999 $11,724 per person double occupancy Category B Balcony
$12,199 $11,924 per person double occupancy Category A Balcony
$12,399 $12,124 per person double occupancy Category S
Balcony $12,999 $12,724 per person double occupancy Category L Balcony
$9,299 per person double occupancy Category E Window
$9,599 per person double occupancy Category D Window
*Special rates valid if deposit received by June 26, 2020
A fine custom travel experience offered by Tumlare Destination Management, 271 Waverley Oaks Road, Suite 209, Waltham, MA 02452 For Focus Travel Club
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4 Night Nile Cruise
AMA Waterways elegant brand-new Nile River Ship – AmaDahlia
All meals, afternoon tea, gala party on board the ship
Highlights include:
Round trip airfare from Denver
Expert Guides
Air conditioned motor coach
Breakfast each day while on tour
11 Dinners & 11 Lunches
Accommodation at St. Regis Amman, the Old Village Hotel and Resort, and the Four Seasons Cairo
Pre Cruise - 4 nights in Jordan
Petra, Ancient Ruins
3 nights in Cairo
7 Night Nile River Cruise with AMA Waterways. Brand New Ship, Capacity only 64 Guest
Stops in Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan
Post Cruise – 1 night in Cairo
Egyptian Museum
Great Pyramids & Sphinx
Temple of Luxor
Valley of the Kings
Aswan High Dam & Unfinished Obelisk
Temple of Karnak
Temple of Hathor
Allow yourself to be treated to a connoisseur’s discovery of this ancient civilization with an unparalleled 16-night Nile River cruise and land experience that includes exquisite cuisine and extraordinary service. This unforgettable journey includes Jerash, Saladin’s 12th century Arab Castle, the City of Mosaics, Mt, Nebo, the ancient lost city of Petra, sail aboard the luxurious, newly designed ship AmaDahlia, Temple of Luxor and mystifying Valley of the Kings. Plus, come face-to-face with the last survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Sphinx and the three Pyramids of Giza Our adventure begins, as we board our jetliner. Time en route to enjoy the friendly service while we become acquainted with our fellow travelers and discuss the wonders we are about to experience in Jordan and Egypt.
AMA Waterways elegant brand-new Nile River Ship – AmaDahlia
All meals, afternoon tea, gala party on board the ship
Highlights include:
Round trip airfare from Denver
Expert Guides
Air conditioned motor coach
Breakfast each day while on tour
11 Dinners & 11 Lunches
Accommodation at St. Regis Amman, the Old Village Hotel and Resort, and the Four Seasons Cairo
Pre Cruise - 4 nights in Jordan
Petra, Ancient Ruins
3 nights in Cairo
7 Night Nile River Cruise with AMA Waterways. Brand New Ship, Capacity only 64 Guest
Stops in Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan
Post Cruise – 1 night in Cairo
Egyptian Museum
Great Pyramids & Sphinx
Temple of Luxor
Valley of the Kings
Aswan High Dam & Unfinished Obelisk
Temple of Karnak
Temple of Hathor
Allow yourself to be treated to a connoisseur’s discovery of this ancient civilization with an unparalleled 16-night Nile River cruise and land experience that includes exquisite cuisine and extraordinary service. This unforgettable journey includes Jerash, Saladin’s 12th century Arab Castle, the City of Mosaics, Mt, Nebo, the ancient lost city of Petra, sail aboard the luxurious, newly designed ship AmaDahlia, Temple of Luxor and mystifying Valley of the Kings. Plus, come face-to-face with the last survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Sphinx and the three Pyramids of Giza Our adventure begins, as we board our jetliner. Time en route to enjoy the friendly service while we become acquainted with our fellow travelers and discuss the wonders we are about to experience in Jordan and Egypt.
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DAILY INTINEREARY:
Day 1: Overnight Flight from Denver to Amman, Jordan November 28 We are thrilled to take you to two fascinating destinations: Jordan and Egypt.
Day 2: Arrive Amman, Jordan November 29 (D) Your Jordan Tour Director will meet you upon arrival at the airport in Amman. Travel to the city center for a two night stay. This evening enjoy a light dinner at the hotel and a good night’s sleep to prepare for the adventures that await. Overnight Amman.
Day 3: Amman November 30 (B, D) Since Jordan was once part of the Roman Empire, it is home to a legacy of Roman architectural treasures. Visit Jerash, considered one of the best examples of Roman influence in the Middle East outside of Italy. You’ll have lunch at Kan Zaman Castle, offering an atmospheric setting in a historic caravanserai. Afterwards, you’ll be taken to the extremely well preserved Jerash, dating back 6,500 years, and considered one of the best examples of Roman influence in the Middle East outside of Italy. Then continue westward to Saladin's 12th century Arab castle, Qalaat al Rabad (Ajloun), one of the finest examples of military architecture. Return back to Amman where you’ll enjoy your welcome dinner this evening at a local restaurant. Overnight Amman.
Day 4: Madaba & Petra December 1 (B, D) This morning, head to Madaba, “The City of Mosaics,” known for its famous mosaics—beautiful reminders of the Byzantine era. Then, you’ll visit Mt. Nebo, one of the most revered sites in Jordan where Moses first viewed the Promised Land. Next, explore the ancient lost city of Petra where you’ll check into The Old Village Hotel and Resort, situated on the outskirts of Wadi Musa, overlooking the Shaharah Mountains, and home to the rose-red ruins of Petra. Dinner included this evening at your hotel. Overnight Petra.
DAY 5 : Petra December 2 (B, D) After breakfast, you’ll be off to the ancient ruins of Petra. You’ll visit the Siq by horse drawn-carriage a nearly ¾-mile narrow passageway carved into sheer rock walls. While the Treasury is the most well-known ruin in Petra, it’s not the only one. You’ll also see the 4,000-spectator Theater, the Courts, Qasr Bint Pharaoun, Temple of the Winged Lion and other monuments. Dinner this evening at a local restaurant. Overnight Petra.
DAY 6: Petra - Cairo December 3 (B, L) With its red-pink sands, stunning natural arches and mountains, and prehistoric rock engravings, Wadi Rum, “Valley of the Moon,” is a romantic and timeless place. Then, it’s on to the Lawrence Springs named for T.E. Lawrence – “Lawrence of Arabia," for a jeep tour of this oasis. You’ll have lunch en route to Queen Alia International Airport for your flight to Cairo. Arrive in Cairo, where you’ll be met by an AmaWaterways representative who will help you with your luggage and the customs and immigration process. With your baggage and customs taken care of and a new stamp in your passport, you will now be driven to your hotel. Overnight Cairo.
DAY 7: Cairo December 4 (B, L) A full day of captivating attractions await, beginning with the exquisite Egyptian Museum, with its 120,000 artifacts on display. Home to some of the greatest masterpieces ever crafted, its unique collection of Pharaonic art includes mummies and the priceless treasures of Tutankhamen, the Boy King. Afterwards, venture to the bustling and colorful 14th-century Khan el-Khalili for a welcome lunch at the famous Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant, named after one of Egypt's most well-known authors. Afterward, tour El-Moez Street, one of Cairo's most remarkable historic places. Then, visit the Mosque of Muhammad – also known as the Alabaster Mosque – which majestically sits on the summit of the Citadel of Saladin's courtyard. From the arcaded courtyard, enjoy the breathtaking view across the city to the Pyramids of Giza. Inside the Mosque, marvel at an ornate interior and a splendid array of lamps suspended from the intricately decorated ceiling. Overnight Cairo.
DAY 8: Cairo December 5 (B, L) Discover the monuments at the UNESCO-designated ancient capital of Memphis. You’ll visit the huge statue of Ramses II, the Alabaster Sphinx and the necropolis of Sakkara – site of the famous step pyramid of King Zoser, the oldest pyramid on earth. You’ll then go to the Great Sphinx and the iconic Giza complex, which consists of three large pyramids built between 2589 BC and 2504 BC Another ancient wonder you’ll encounter is the Khufu solar boat designed to carry the pharaoh across the sky with the Sun God, which is restored and preserved in the Giza Solar Boat Museum. Today’s adventure concludes with a lovely lunch at the famous Mena House, a historic palatial hotel, based in the shadow of the great Pyramids of Giza. Overnight Cairo.
DAY 9 Cairo – Luxor - Embarkation December 6 (B, L, D) After checking out of the hotel, take a morning flight south to Luxor—formerly known as Thebes, the capital city of the New Kingdom of Upper Egypt. Luxor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to two astonishing temples—Karnak and Luxor. Luxor is also your gateway to many of Egypt’s vast treasures that you’ll discover throughout your Nile River Valley cruise, so it is here that you’ll be welcomed aboard the AmaDahlia. During the late afternoon, you will visit the Temple of Luxor, constructed over hundreds of years by Amenhotep III, Ramses II, Tutankhamun and other pharaohs. After your visit, continue to experience Egyptian magic with a traditional folkloric-style belly dance on board the AmaDahlia. Overnight on cruise ship.
DAY 10: Cruise December 7 (B, L, D) LUXOR - EDFU Visit the tombs of ancient Egypt in the Valley of the Kings— one of the most famous archeological sites in the world. The spectacular rock-cut tombs located on the west bank of Luxor include that of the enigmatic King Tutankhamun, whose mummified remains are still here on display. Afterwards, go to Deir el-Bahri to see the Temple of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most successful pharaohs and its first female ruler. Next, you’ll visit the Valley of Queens, home to the mummified remains of more than 30 queens and princesses, including Nefertari’s Tomb, where you’ll enjoy exclusive access. Your day’s adventure concludes with an up-close view of the Colossi of Memnon—two gigantic statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Once back on board the AmaDahlia, cap the day off with a Captain’s Welcome Cocktail. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 11: Cruise December 8 (B, L, D) EDFU - ASWAN The city of Edfu is best known for one of Egypt’s most remarkably preserved temples, dedicated to Horus, the falconheaded god. Built in 230 BC, it is the second-largest temple in Egypt and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with walls that display compelling details about the religion and language of the country’s Greco-Roman period. After visiting Edfu, relax on board and take in the Nile River’s timeless landscapes as the ship continues onward to Aswan, and then in the evening, celebrate your inner Egyptian at an onboard Galabeya party. Don traditional Egyptian attire, meet new friends, toast to adventures past and future, dance and bask in the glory of the Egyptian night. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 12: Cruise December 9 (B, L, D) ASWAN Enjoy free time in Aswan or go on an optional excursion to Abu Simbel. If you choose the optional excursion, you’ll take an early morning flight to Lake Nasser to the more than 3,000-year-old Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to Ramses II, one of the most active of pharaohs, along with the smaller temple dedicated to his chief wife Queen Nefertari. The front of the main temple has four gargantuan statues of Ramses II on his throne, each measuring nearly 70 feet high and discovered half buried in sand in 1813. During the afternoon, take a peaceful ride in a felucca, a traditional Egyptian sailboat, to the colorful Nubian Village of Hessa. Meet the warm and friendly Nubian people who will welcome you to their village. Enjoy lunch here before going back to the ship. Tonight, there is an optional outing to a sound and light show at Philae Temple. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 13: Cruise December 10 (B, L, D) ASWAN - ESNA Visit the Aswan High Dam and then the Unfinished Obelisk, commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut. Next, explore the UNESCO-designated Philae Temple complex, with one of the most stunningly restored and preserved hieroglyphs in Egypt, built between 380 BC and 362 BC and dedicated to the goddess Isis, the wife of Osiris and mother of Horus. After your visit here, cruise to the Great Temple of Kom Ombo, where its soaring columns dramatically rise above the Nile River. Unique in Egypt, this temple is dedicated to two gods—the crocodile god, Sobek, sitting on the right; and the falcon-headed Haroeris, “The Good Doctor.” Once back on board the AmaDahlia, enjoy an afternoon of scenic sailing to Esna, where you’ll spend the night before sailing back to Luxor. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 14: Cruise December 11 (B, L, D) ESNA - LUXOR Spend the morning cruising back to Luxor, where you’ll explore the Temple of Karnak, the largest religious complex in Egypt and one of the largest in the world, covering about 200 acres in a vast network of columns, hieroglyphics, obelisks, sphinxes and colossi—even a lake. Built over the course of 1,300 years, it is overwhelming. 80,000 laborers took part in its creation during the 19th dynasty alone. Despite its rich history, the temple lay hidden until the 19th century. The effort to restore it continues still. The Hypostyle Hall is a great architectural marvel and filled with its roof blocks, supported by colossal 134 columns standing at 70 feet high, with 12 larger columns standing at 80 feet high lining the central aisle. It is still the largest room of any religious building in the world. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 15: Cruise December 12 (B, L, D) LUXOR - QENA - LUXOR Set sail to Qena to explore the Great Temple of Abydos of Seti I, one of the lesser-known pharaohs of the New Kingdom of ancient Egypt. Next, you’ll go to Dendara to visit the best-preserved temple in Egypt, the Temple of Hathor – the Goddess of Love, to whom the powers of joy, feminine love and motherhood were attributed. The temple was built by Ptolemy and a group of Romans who worshipped her; so don’t miss the back of the temple where there is a relief depicting Cleopatra with Caesarion, her son by Julius Caesar, the Roman Emperor who brought us the months of July and August. Following your visit here, sail back to Luxor. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 16: Cruise December 13 (B, L) LUXOR - DISEMBARKATION - CAIRO Disembark the ship in Luxor and fly back to Cairo where you will be taken to the Abdeen Presidential Palace, considered one of the most luxurious palaces in the world. The palace consists of multiple museums, including the Silver Museum; the Arms Museum; the Royal Family Museum; a Presidential Gifts Museum and a Historical Documents Museum, which is a relatively new addition. It is also one of the official residences and places of work for the President of Egypt. Afterwards, be treated to a very special lunch at the palace. Finally, you’ll explore the old part of the city, which includes Coptic Cairo, where the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue are located. Overnight Cairo
Day 17: Cairo – Flight Home December 14 (B) Bid farewell to Cairo. Board your coach and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Denver.
Day 1: Overnight Flight from Denver to Amman, Jordan November 28 We are thrilled to take you to two fascinating destinations: Jordan and Egypt.
Day 2: Arrive Amman, Jordan November 29 (D) Your Jordan Tour Director will meet you upon arrival at the airport in Amman. Travel to the city center for a two night stay. This evening enjoy a light dinner at the hotel and a good night’s sleep to prepare for the adventures that await. Overnight Amman.
Day 3: Amman November 30 (B, D) Since Jordan was once part of the Roman Empire, it is home to a legacy of Roman architectural treasures. Visit Jerash, considered one of the best examples of Roman influence in the Middle East outside of Italy. You’ll have lunch at Kan Zaman Castle, offering an atmospheric setting in a historic caravanserai. Afterwards, you’ll be taken to the extremely well preserved Jerash, dating back 6,500 years, and considered one of the best examples of Roman influence in the Middle East outside of Italy. Then continue westward to Saladin's 12th century Arab castle, Qalaat al Rabad (Ajloun), one of the finest examples of military architecture. Return back to Amman where you’ll enjoy your welcome dinner this evening at a local restaurant. Overnight Amman.
Day 4: Madaba & Petra December 1 (B, D) This morning, head to Madaba, “The City of Mosaics,” known for its famous mosaics—beautiful reminders of the Byzantine era. Then, you’ll visit Mt. Nebo, one of the most revered sites in Jordan where Moses first viewed the Promised Land. Next, explore the ancient lost city of Petra where you’ll check into The Old Village Hotel and Resort, situated on the outskirts of Wadi Musa, overlooking the Shaharah Mountains, and home to the rose-red ruins of Petra. Dinner included this evening at your hotel. Overnight Petra.
DAY 5 : Petra December 2 (B, D) After breakfast, you’ll be off to the ancient ruins of Petra. You’ll visit the Siq by horse drawn-carriage a nearly ¾-mile narrow passageway carved into sheer rock walls. While the Treasury is the most well-known ruin in Petra, it’s not the only one. You’ll also see the 4,000-spectator Theater, the Courts, Qasr Bint Pharaoun, Temple of the Winged Lion and other monuments. Dinner this evening at a local restaurant. Overnight Petra.
DAY 6: Petra - Cairo December 3 (B, L) With its red-pink sands, stunning natural arches and mountains, and prehistoric rock engravings, Wadi Rum, “Valley of the Moon,” is a romantic and timeless place. Then, it’s on to the Lawrence Springs named for T.E. Lawrence – “Lawrence of Arabia," for a jeep tour of this oasis. You’ll have lunch en route to Queen Alia International Airport for your flight to Cairo. Arrive in Cairo, where you’ll be met by an AmaWaterways representative who will help you with your luggage and the customs and immigration process. With your baggage and customs taken care of and a new stamp in your passport, you will now be driven to your hotel. Overnight Cairo.
DAY 7: Cairo December 4 (B, L) A full day of captivating attractions await, beginning with the exquisite Egyptian Museum, with its 120,000 artifacts on display. Home to some of the greatest masterpieces ever crafted, its unique collection of Pharaonic art includes mummies and the priceless treasures of Tutankhamen, the Boy King. Afterwards, venture to the bustling and colorful 14th-century Khan el-Khalili for a welcome lunch at the famous Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant, named after one of Egypt's most well-known authors. Afterward, tour El-Moez Street, one of Cairo's most remarkable historic places. Then, visit the Mosque of Muhammad – also known as the Alabaster Mosque – which majestically sits on the summit of the Citadel of Saladin's courtyard. From the arcaded courtyard, enjoy the breathtaking view across the city to the Pyramids of Giza. Inside the Mosque, marvel at an ornate interior and a splendid array of lamps suspended from the intricately decorated ceiling. Overnight Cairo.
DAY 8: Cairo December 5 (B, L) Discover the monuments at the UNESCO-designated ancient capital of Memphis. You’ll visit the huge statue of Ramses II, the Alabaster Sphinx and the necropolis of Sakkara – site of the famous step pyramid of King Zoser, the oldest pyramid on earth. You’ll then go to the Great Sphinx and the iconic Giza complex, which consists of three large pyramids built between 2589 BC and 2504 BC Another ancient wonder you’ll encounter is the Khufu solar boat designed to carry the pharaoh across the sky with the Sun God, which is restored and preserved in the Giza Solar Boat Museum. Today’s adventure concludes with a lovely lunch at the famous Mena House, a historic palatial hotel, based in the shadow of the great Pyramids of Giza. Overnight Cairo.
DAY 9 Cairo – Luxor - Embarkation December 6 (B, L, D) After checking out of the hotel, take a morning flight south to Luxor—formerly known as Thebes, the capital city of the New Kingdom of Upper Egypt. Luxor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to two astonishing temples—Karnak and Luxor. Luxor is also your gateway to many of Egypt’s vast treasures that you’ll discover throughout your Nile River Valley cruise, so it is here that you’ll be welcomed aboard the AmaDahlia. During the late afternoon, you will visit the Temple of Luxor, constructed over hundreds of years by Amenhotep III, Ramses II, Tutankhamun and other pharaohs. After your visit, continue to experience Egyptian magic with a traditional folkloric-style belly dance on board the AmaDahlia. Overnight on cruise ship.
DAY 10: Cruise December 7 (B, L, D) LUXOR - EDFU Visit the tombs of ancient Egypt in the Valley of the Kings— one of the most famous archeological sites in the world. The spectacular rock-cut tombs located on the west bank of Luxor include that of the enigmatic King Tutankhamun, whose mummified remains are still here on display. Afterwards, go to Deir el-Bahri to see the Temple of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most successful pharaohs and its first female ruler. Next, you’ll visit the Valley of Queens, home to the mummified remains of more than 30 queens and princesses, including Nefertari’s Tomb, where you’ll enjoy exclusive access. Your day’s adventure concludes with an up-close view of the Colossi of Memnon—two gigantic statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Once back on board the AmaDahlia, cap the day off with a Captain’s Welcome Cocktail. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 11: Cruise December 8 (B, L, D) EDFU - ASWAN The city of Edfu is best known for one of Egypt’s most remarkably preserved temples, dedicated to Horus, the falconheaded god. Built in 230 BC, it is the second-largest temple in Egypt and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with walls that display compelling details about the religion and language of the country’s Greco-Roman period. After visiting Edfu, relax on board and take in the Nile River’s timeless landscapes as the ship continues onward to Aswan, and then in the evening, celebrate your inner Egyptian at an onboard Galabeya party. Don traditional Egyptian attire, meet new friends, toast to adventures past and future, dance and bask in the glory of the Egyptian night. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 12: Cruise December 9 (B, L, D) ASWAN Enjoy free time in Aswan or go on an optional excursion to Abu Simbel. If you choose the optional excursion, you’ll take an early morning flight to Lake Nasser to the more than 3,000-year-old Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to Ramses II, one of the most active of pharaohs, along with the smaller temple dedicated to his chief wife Queen Nefertari. The front of the main temple has four gargantuan statues of Ramses II on his throne, each measuring nearly 70 feet high and discovered half buried in sand in 1813. During the afternoon, take a peaceful ride in a felucca, a traditional Egyptian sailboat, to the colorful Nubian Village of Hessa. Meet the warm and friendly Nubian people who will welcome you to their village. Enjoy lunch here before going back to the ship. Tonight, there is an optional outing to a sound and light show at Philae Temple. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 13: Cruise December 10 (B, L, D) ASWAN - ESNA Visit the Aswan High Dam and then the Unfinished Obelisk, commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut. Next, explore the UNESCO-designated Philae Temple complex, with one of the most stunningly restored and preserved hieroglyphs in Egypt, built between 380 BC and 362 BC and dedicated to the goddess Isis, the wife of Osiris and mother of Horus. After your visit here, cruise to the Great Temple of Kom Ombo, where its soaring columns dramatically rise above the Nile River. Unique in Egypt, this temple is dedicated to two gods—the crocodile god, Sobek, sitting on the right; and the falcon-headed Haroeris, “The Good Doctor.” Once back on board the AmaDahlia, enjoy an afternoon of scenic sailing to Esna, where you’ll spend the night before sailing back to Luxor. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 14: Cruise December 11 (B, L, D) ESNA - LUXOR Spend the morning cruising back to Luxor, where you’ll explore the Temple of Karnak, the largest religious complex in Egypt and one of the largest in the world, covering about 200 acres in a vast network of columns, hieroglyphics, obelisks, sphinxes and colossi—even a lake. Built over the course of 1,300 years, it is overwhelming. 80,000 laborers took part in its creation during the 19th dynasty alone. Despite its rich history, the temple lay hidden until the 19th century. The effort to restore it continues still. The Hypostyle Hall is a great architectural marvel and filled with its roof blocks, supported by colossal 134 columns standing at 70 feet high, with 12 larger columns standing at 80 feet high lining the central aisle. It is still the largest room of any religious building in the world. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 15: Cruise December 12 (B, L, D) LUXOR - QENA - LUXOR Set sail to Qena to explore the Great Temple of Abydos of Seti I, one of the lesser-known pharaohs of the New Kingdom of ancient Egypt. Next, you’ll go to Dendara to visit the best-preserved temple in Egypt, the Temple of Hathor – the Goddess of Love, to whom the powers of joy, feminine love and motherhood were attributed. The temple was built by Ptolemy and a group of Romans who worshipped her; so don’t miss the back of the temple where there is a relief depicting Cleopatra with Caesarion, her son by Julius Caesar, the Roman Emperor who brought us the months of July and August. Following your visit here, sail back to Luxor. Overnight on cruise ship.
Day 16: Cruise December 13 (B, L) LUXOR - DISEMBARKATION - CAIRO Disembark the ship in Luxor and fly back to Cairo where you will be taken to the Abdeen Presidential Palace, considered one of the most luxurious palaces in the world. The palace consists of multiple museums, including the Silver Museum; the Arms Museum; the Royal Family Museum; a Presidential Gifts Museum and a Historical Documents Museum, which is a relatively new addition. It is also one of the official residences and places of work for the President of Egypt. Afterwards, be treated to a very special lunch at the palace. Finally, you’ll explore the old part of the city, which includes Coptic Cairo, where the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue are located. Overnight Cairo
Day 17: Cairo – Flight Home December 14 (B) Bid farewell to Cairo. Board your coach and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Denver.