Bryn Mawr College

Tonight you'll depart New York's JFK Airport on EgyptAir bound for Cairo.

You'll arrive in Cairo this afternoon and transfer directly to your hotel, where there's time to rest before meeting your fellow travelers and Odysseys Unlimited tour director at tonight's briefing and welcome dinner.

Accommodations: Semiramis InterContinental
Meals: Dinner

Our full-day tour begins at the world-renowned Egyptian Museum, which holds more than 120,000 relics and antiquities from almost every period in Egyptian history. We continue on to the Citadel of Saladin, a spectacular medieval fortress set high on a hill with extraordinary views of the city below. Built in 1176 to guard against the Crusaders, the Citadel was the home of Egyptian rulers for nearly 700 years, including famed leader Mohammed Ali, whose gilt tomb is inside. Late this afternoon we navigate the exotic Khan el-Khalili bazaar, Cairo's most popular. Lunch today is at a local restaurant; dinner tonight is on your own.

Accommodations: Semiramis InterContinental
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today we visit some of the finest sites in Egyptian antiquity, beginning this morning at the open-air museum at Memphis, Egypt's first capital dating to the early 4th century BC. Once a magnificent city ruled by legendary King Menes who united Upper and Lower Egypt (ca. 3100 BC), Memphis is now a pleasant remnant of long-ago times, with sculptures, a Sphinx, and a limestone colossus of Ramses II. Our next stop is at nearby Sakkara, a necropolis used for more than 3,000 years to bury Old Kingdom royalty – and still largely unexcavated today. Much of Sakkara's splendor remains, and can be seen in the Step Pyramid, which was once the largest stone structure ever built. The Step Pyramid forms the center of a remarkable funerary complex, which includes a broad "hypostyle" hall (a structure whose roof is supported by columns), a great court, and stone altars representing Upper and Lower Egypt.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we reach the Giza Plateau and the Pyramids of Egypt, including the Great Pyramid (or Pyramid of Cheops), which ranks among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. For years, scientists have debated about how these massive tombs were built, and to a great degree, the mystery remains unsolved today. The largest structure is the great Pyramid of Cheops, built around 2600 BC. In front of the Pyramids stands the serene Sphinx, carved almost entirely of one piece of limestone and submerged by desert sands for thousands of years. After a long day of outdoor exploration we return to our hotel late afternoon. Dinner tonight is on your own.

Accommodations: Semiramis InterContinental
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning we encounter Old Cairo – ancient Babylon – the city's oldest section that is a maze of medieval streets, Islamic mosques, minarets, and domes. We begin at 5th-century St. Sergius, the oldest church in the area. Inside, 12 columns representing the 12 Apostles separate the nave from the aisles. We also visit the restored Ben Ezra Synagogue, Egypt's oldest, which resembles the 4th-century Coptic church it once was. Sadly, Egypt's Jewish community is fast disappearing and there are seldom enough worshippers here to hold a service. Another stop today is el-Mauallaqa, the “hanging church” built over the bastions of a Roman gate. Believed to date from the 7th century, the church features a ceiling that resembles an ark, and a carved marble pulpit considered the finest in Egypt.

This afternoon is free to explore Cairo independently. You might wish to visit the Museum of Islamic Art or return to the Egyptian Museum to see the incredible exhibition of artifacts excavated from the tomb of the young King Tutankhamun (“Tut”) in 1922 by an English archeologist. The King ruled for just nine years, but during that time he amassed great wealth, much of which was buried with him in the form of gold amulets and jewelry, a coffin of solid gold, and an exquisite mask of gold and lapis. Or you may wish to return to the Khan al-Khalil bazaar, believed to be the largest in the Middle East, if not the world. Here you can visit artisans who have passed down their skill from generation to generation, perfecting all types of crafts including wood, perfume, leather goods, and glassware. There are bargains to be had on almost every corner, but you are expected to barter hard for them. Lunch and dinner today are on your own.

Accommodations: Semiramis InterContinental
Meals: Breakfast

It's a very early morning as we set off for a flight to Aswan where we board a motorcoach for the 2½-hour ride across a corner of the Sahara to Abu Simbel, the Pharonic site with an inspiring history. When the Aswan High Dam was built in the 1960s to control the mighty Nile, it was expected to double the country's hydroelectric supply. But in the course of creating one of the world's largest manmade lakes (Lake Nasser), the resultant flooding would destroy most of the native Nubian villages found here, as well as a number of irreplaceable monuments in the lowlands, among them Abu Simbel. So the Egyptian Department of Antiquities, in conjunction with UNESCO, embarked on a rescue project beyond the scope of anything that had ever before been attempted: they dismantled several ancient sites, stone by heavy stone, and rebuilt them on higher ground. We see the results of these efforts at Abu Simbel, a massive complex of temples guarded by four colossal statues of Ramses II, each more than 60 feet high. Inside, the walls are covered with incredibly well preserved murals depicting scenes of Queen Nefertari and her court, and of King Ramses in battle. This is truly an astonishing place; one you'll be glad was preserved for posterity. After visiting Abu Simbel, we board the 69-cabin river ship Prince Abbas for lunch together and an afternoon at leisure. As the desert sun goes down, we return to Abu Simbel and experience one of the highlights of our trip: a dramatic sound-and-light show amid the massive statuary of Abu Simbel. We spend the evening on board our river ship.

Accommodations: Prince Abbas
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning you may want to rise early to experience the sunrise over the temples at Abu Simbel. Then during breakfast we sail to the settlement of Kasr Ibrim, the last vestige of Nubian culture still in its original location. After a brief visit during which we learn about this ancient settlement from onboard ship (it's prohibited to go ashore here), we'll continue on to Amada, where we tour the 8th-dynasty Temple of Amada, built during the reign of Tutmosis III and the oldest surviving Lake Nasser temple. During lunch we cruise to Wadi el Seboua where we explore the reconstructed Dakka temple, dedicated to the God Thot of Divine Wisdom, and where we spend the night.

We are now in the heart of ancient Nubia, the country that bordered southern Egypt during antiquity and was Egypt's gateway to Africa. Though heavily influenced and often ruled by Egypt, Nubia had a culture and history distinct from that of its more powerful neighbor. It had its own kingdoms, some of which were cooperative with Egypt's, while others were competitive. While Nubia has long been incorporated as a part of Egypt, some Nubians have struggled to maintain their culture and traditions, much of which is now dying out because of assimilation and changing times.

Accommodations: Prince Abbas
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We spend this morning in Wadi el Seboua touring the Valley of the Lions with its striking avenue of sphinxes. This afternoon we cruise to Aswan, the city where Agatha Christie famously wrote Death on the Nile, and enjoy dinner together on board. Late this evening we arrive in Aswan and spend the evening aboard our deluxe river ship.

Accommodations: Prince Abbas
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We disembark the Prince Abbas this morning in the desert lands of Aswan and set out to visit “new” Kalabsha, site of the largest freestanding Nubian temple of them all, which was moved and reconstructed here from “old” Kalabsha. This sandstone temple dedicated to Mandulis, the Nubian god of religion, preserves Egyptian and Greek history; both languages are carved into the temple walls. After exploring the site this afternoon, we continue on to the Nubia Museum, an acclaimed showcase of Nubian art and architecture that puts much of what we've seen in the region into a broader context. Completed in 1997, the museum received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2001 and is renowned as a center of African and Middle Eastern archaeology and scholarship. This afternoon we pay a visit to Aswan's thriving riverfront market. Dinner tonight is on your own; afterwards, you may wish to stroll along the lovely Corniche that runs along the banks of the Nile.

Accommodations: Movenpick Resort Aswan
Meals: Breakfast

This morning we board the second ship of the tour, Movenpick's M/S Royal Lotus, our floating hotel for our four-night Nile cruise. After lunch on board, we embark small feluccas, replicas of ancient Nile sailboats, for a relaxing afternoon sail. We'll admire the river scenery as we make our way slowly down the Nile, passing close by the Botanical Gardens on Kitchener's Island, home of the British hero who helped tame the Sudan; Elephantine Island, with its huge granite rocks; and the tomb of the Aga Khan. After dinner on board, you may choose to attend an optional Sound & Light show at Philae Temple at additional cost (approximately US$25.00 per person). Tonight we overnight on board in Aswan.

Accommodations: M/S Royal Lotus
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we travel by coach to the Aswan High Dam, considered a miracle of engineering when completed in 1965 after some 18 years of work. Numbers tell part of the story: it stands 11,811 feet long, 364 feet tall, and at its base is 3,215 feet thick. Material used in the dam's construction is 18 times the amount of material used to construct the Great Pyramid at Giza. But in addition to doubling Egypt's electrical supply, the dam's construction – and subsequent creation of Lake Nasser – also caused the relocation of up to 90,000 Nubians from their homeland. Next we visit the Temple of Isis on the island of Philae. Before the Aswan Dam was built, the temples here were submerged by Nile flooding for six months each year. But in much the same manner as Abu Simbel, the Philae ruins were dismantled and reconstructed on a nearby island, which was landscaped to resemble antiquity's Sacred Island of Isis. The oldest part of the temple dates from the 4th century BC, though construction continued until the 3rd century AD. We visit the Hall of Nectanebo, the oldest part of the complex, along with the Outer Temple Court, the Temple of Isis, and the beautiful Osiris Chambers, decorated with bas reliefs of Isis, her sons, and other deities.

After lunch today we visit the site of the ancient trading town at Kom Ombo, on the great caravan route from Nubia, where we see outstanding Nile views from the unusual double temple here, dedicated both to the crocodile god Sobek and to the falcon god Haroeris (Horus the Elder). Then we return to the ship, enjoying afternoon tea as we sail to Edfu. On board tonight you can join in a party wearing traditional Egyptian galabeya as we overnight dockside in Edfu.

Accommodations: M/S Royal Lotus
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we explore Edfu's Temple of Horus, considered Egypt's best-preserved ancient temple (having spent centuries buried beneath desert sands). Construction of the complex began under Ptolemy III in 237 BC and was completed nearly 200 years later; the temple's remains were not discovered until 1900. We'll see the 12 enormous columns that stand in front of the Great Halls, and stop to admire the wall inscriptions in the Hall of Consecrations. We return to our ship for this afternoon's cruise to Luxor (our final sail) as we enjoy afternoon tea along the way. Tonight on board is a show of traditional Middle Eastern belly dancing.

Accommodations: M/S Royal Lotus
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You may wish to rise early this morning and view the West Bank from above in an optional hot air balloon ride. (At the time of printing, the cost of the 45-minute balloon ride is approximately $150 USD per person). Later this morning we embark on an exploration of Luxor, the ancient city that surpasses even Cairo in the number and importance of its ancient sites. Beginning on the West Bank at the haunting Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, this isolated valley holds the tombs of more than 50 kings, queens, and nobles, each in a tomb constructed underground in an attempt to mirror the underworld. For many years Egyptians inhabited this vast City of the Dead in an attempt to protect the tombs from grave robbers – though sadly, some of the tombs were indeed looted over the centuries. What remains, however, are some of the most magnificent paintings you'll see anywhere in Egypt. The tombs were filled with sand, which not only protected everything inside, but also served as a sort of embalming element for the paintings, preserving them from the wind and sun. Today some of the paintings have been covered by glass for further protection, and photography is strictly forbidden inside the tombs. To visit all the tombs would be impossible; your tour director will select some of the most interesting for you to see. Before returning to the ship, we visit the dramatic Temple of Hatshepsut, dedicated to one of the few female pharaohs; and the enormous Colossi of Memnon, two 64-foot-high statues that once guarded the gates of a mortuary temple.

After lunch we explore the East Bank, beginning at Karnak. Here we tour the Luxor Temple, where Amun-Ra, the Sun God and God of Creation, would travel for festivals held during annual flood season. Over the years, more rulers built onto the temple, including Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and even Alexander the Great. We visit the Great Court of Ramses II, the Temple of the Theban Triad, and the obelisk, whose twin stands in the Place de la Concorde in Paris. We then move on to the even more splendid Karnak Temple, which was under construction for some 1,500 years. It comprises the three main temples of Amun, Mut, and Montu, as well as smaller enclosed temples and several outer temples located a short distance north of Luxor. We also see the temple's enormous pylons, the Temple of Ramses II, the Great Hypostyle Hall, and the two Obelisks of Hatshepsut. Tonight you can choose to attend an optional Sound & Light show at Karnak Temple at additional cost (approximately US $25 per person).

Accommodations: M/S Royal Lotus
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We disembark our Nile ship this morning then fly to Cairo. Here we board a motorcoach for the 3½-hour drive northwest to Alexandria, one of the ancient world's greatest cities and today Egypt's main port and second largest city sitting at the cross-roads of the main trading routes between Asia, Africa and Europe. As we arrive in this city founded by Alexander the Great, we drive by the Fort of Quaitbay where once stood the Pharos of Alexandria, the lighthouse that ranked as one of the Seven Ancient Wonders. We also see Montazah Palace, a beloved 115-acre complex whose gardens overlook the sea. Dinner tonight is on your own.

Accommodations: Helnan Palestine Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Today we encounter Alexandria's Greco-Roman heritage at the Library of Alexandria and the tri-level catacombs in Kom el-Shoukafa. After lunch in a local restaurant, we tour the well-preserved ruins of the ancient Roman Theater. We return to our hotel mid-afternoon; the remainder of the day and evening is at leisure for independent exploration (your tour director can offer suggestions). Dinner tonight is on your own.

Accommodations: Helnan Palestine Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning we depart Alexandria for Cairo, the ancient city standing on both sides of the Nile River. Today numerous contemporary and ancient districts comprise Cairo, Egypt's capital and most populated city. We reach Cairo with time to relax before tonight's farewell dinner at our hotel.

Accommodations: Le Méridien Heliopolis
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we depart for the airport for your morning EgyptAir flight to New York's Kennedy airport, arriving mid-afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast

This morning we board the 1½-hour flight to Amman, the once and current capital of one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Known for its harmonious blend of ancient and contemporary architecture, Amman boasts countless relics of its Roman, Byzantine, and Arab past. Upon arrival we embark on a brief tour of the city including the impressive City Center building. One of the most prestigious buildings in all of Amman, the 13-story City Center represents the contemporary western design that continues to gain influence amidst more traditional Middle Eastern architecture. From here we visit traditional souks; the Citadel, a religious landmark dating to the Bronze Age; and several museums, including the Archaeological Museums, the Museum of Popular Tradition, and the Folklore Museum. Dinner tonight is on your own.

Accommodations: Kempinski Hotel Amman
Meals: Breakfast

Early today we travel to the Roman ruins of Jerash, dubbed the “Pompeii of the East” for its splendid state of preservation. Jerash flourished during the reign of Alexander the Great because of its popular trade routes when it became part of the Holy Roman Empire's Decapolis (the 10 major Roman cities of the East). After the Persian invasion in 614 and a series of consequential earthquakes, Jerash survived as nothing more than a small rural village until its rediscovery in 1925. We explore the colonnaded streets, theaters, churches, and temples that comprise the largest Roman site outside Italy. After time for lunch on your own, we leave by motorcoach for Petra. The “rose-red city, half as old as time” was established around the 6th century BC and eventually drew fame for its success in the spice trade and its ingenious hydraulic engineering systems. We arrive late this afternoon and dine together tonight at the Petra Kitchen where the furnishings, décor, and tableware are handcrafted by Jordanians artisans.

Accommodations: Movenpick Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

We spend the whole day exploring Petra on foot, entering by the mile-long canyon leading to the site. Forgotten for more than a thousand years, Petra was rediscovered only in the 18th century, and the central part of the city wasn't excavated until 1958. In fact, even today only a small percentage of the site has been uncovered. But what we will see here today is enough to astonish and astound even the most experienced traveler: monuments and buildings – temples, tombs, palaces, and dwellings – carved directly into the cliffs of a solid mass of rock. Built as a fortress by the wealthy Nabateans, the city that once stood here housed nearly 10,000 people. The architecture represents some of the most sophisticated of its time, and the variegated rock changes colors with the sun, transforming from a rosy pink to a golden yellow. It is, quite simply, a glorious sight. The ruins here are remarkably well preserved, giving us a true glimpse into the lives of those who lived and worked here. Buildings and sites that we'll visit include the marvelous 8,000-seat amphitheater, the colonnaded street, the Temple of the Winged Lions, and the Royal Tombs set high up into the cliffs. One magnificent building is the enormous monastery, reached by climbing a staircase of stone at the far end of Petra. If you wish, you can walk up to the monastery and admire the wonderful views. Or relax and have a drink in one of the beverage tents scattered throughout the site. After a full, and fulfilling, day of sightseeing we return to our hotel late this afternoon. Tonight we enjoy dinner together at the hotel.

Accommodations: Movenpick Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We leave Petra for Amman this morning, traveling the historic King's Highway which was the region's original north/south road dating to Biblical times. We stop along the way at the Castle of Shobak, the early 12th-century crusader castle perched on top of a rocky mountain overlooking vast lands and fruit trees. Next: Madaba, “City of Mosaics,” whose chief attraction is a mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land dating to the Byzantine era. It took more than two million colored stones to create this work of art, and each one remains in place today. After visiting this ancient masterpiece we have an early lunch then continue on to the important pilgrimage site of Mt. Nebo, where Moses was buried overlooking the Jordan Valley. We see the site's 4th- and 6th-century Byzantine churches, the first of which was built to commemorate Moses' death. The churches are closed for renovations, but we should be able to view the Jordan Valley and catch glimpses of Jerusalem's rooftops in the distance. We reach Amman late afternoon and board an evening flight back to Cairo.

Accommodations: Le Méridien Heliopolis
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, we depart for the airport for your morning EgyptAir flight to New York's Kennedy airport, arriving mid-afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast
Please Note

The itinerary now includes a visit to the dramatic Roman ruins at Jerash, an excursion that was not originally advertised. We now arrive in Amman earlier than originally planned due to EgyptAir's adjusted flight schedule. Should the flight schedule change again, the itinerary may need to revert to the schedule that was originally promoted and does not include Jerash.
In addition, we will do our best to adhere to our printed itinerary. Occasionally, though, unexpected obstacles, and opportunities, may arise that will force us to deviate from the itinerary as written. We would ask you to be open-minded and flexible should we vary the itinerary slightly. In addition, please note that airline schedules are subject to change. We will provide you with updated flight information closer to your departure.