Israel/Jordan/Egypt
Ancient Treasures of the Middle East: Israel, Jordan and Egypt
Program No. 15860RJ
Dive head first into history with expert instructors as you explore the hidden gems of Israel, Egypt and Jordan to learn about magnificent architectural landmarks and unique cultures.
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17 days
16 nights
43 meals
15B 14L 14D
1
Overnight Flight
In Flight
2
Arrival & Orientation
Jerusalem
3
Mount of Olives, Old City & Bethlehem
Jerusalem
5
Masada
Nazareth
6
Capernaum & Nazareth
Nazareth
9
Petra
Petra
11
Pyramids & Sphinx
Giza
17
Departure from Cairo
In Flight
At a Glance
From the Old City of Jerusalem and the Sea of Galilee to the tip of the Great Pyramids of Giza, the hidden gems of Israel, Jordan and Egypt offer critical insight into the Persian Empire and the Greco-Roman world. For 5,000 years, adventurers have flocked to these lands to discover the archaeological riches, resulting in a beautiful melting pot of cultures. Uncover these important landmarks and learn about their creation from fascinating locals who will show you the secrets of their homeland. By the end of this comprehensive learning adventure, leave with a deeper understanding of the Middle East that will help you answer the age-old question: “Does history shape culture, or does culture shape history?”
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking up to five miles per day over uneven terrain in hot conditions with little to no shade. Stairs on this program are often uneven and without railings. For security reasons, participants must carry their own luggage across the border between Israel and Jordan several hundred yards. This program includes one international flight between Amman and Cairo, and two domestic flights within Egypt.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
What You'll Learn
- Explore Jerusalem, a holy city to all three Abrahamic faiths, and discover important cultural landmarks such as the Western Wall and the Holocaust Memorial.
- Discover one of the seven wonders of the modern world, Petra, as you learn about this stunning city cut from rose-red rock by the ancient Nabataean people of Jordan.
- Spend three nights on the Nile River with an expert Egyptologist who will show you ancient temples, the Valley of the Kings and more important historical sites.
General Notes
Itineraries may vary by date.
Suggested Reading List
(14 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Ancient Treasures of the Middle East: Israel, Jordan and Egypt
Program Number: 15860
Eyewitness Guide Egypt
A visually rich guide to the history, culture and monuments of Egypt.
Apeirogon: A Novel
McCann writes a complex and uplifting story of a Palestinian father and an Israeli Father who form an unexpected bond by the grief of losing a daughter.
Luxor Illustrated, With Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Nile
The ideal companion to a Nile cruise, Michael Haag introduces all the famous monuments and temples of the Upper Egypt from Luxor, Karnak, Valley of the Kings and the tomb of Tutankhamun to the marvels of Aswan and Abu Simbel in full color.
The Rough Guide To Jordan
An in depth expert and comprehensive guide to Jordan. The Rough Guide to Jordan will help readers discover the best places to explore, sleep, eat, drink and shop.
The Rise and Fall of Ancient Egypt
Toby Wilkinson, a world rewound Egyptologist, tells the story of Egypt’s great civilization, from its birth as the first nation-state to its absorption into the Roman Empire. Drawing upon forty years of archaeological research, award-winning scholar Toby Wilkinson takes readers inside Egypt’s history once ruled by divine kings who led with all-too-recognizable human emotions.
Eyewitness Guide Jerusalem: Israel, Petra & Sinai
This compact, illustrated guide provides a thorough overview of Israel and western Jordan, including Petra, Wadi Rum and Amman.
Jerusalem: One City, Three Faiths
A popular history by the author of A History of God. Armstrong tackles big subjects -- and this book is no exception. It's a comprehensive, concise portrait of the city over the last 5,000 years.
Israel & The West Bank: With Petra
A guide to Jerusalem that includes color photos and helpful planning maps with descriptions.
Petra, The Rose-Red City
Jam-packed with color illustrations, archival material, maps and site plans, this shirt-pocket encyclopedia is our best-selling book on Petra.
Northeast Africa and Arabia Map
A folded map of the Northeast region of the continent at a scale of 1:4,000,000.
When Woman Ruled the World, 6 Queens of Egypt
Celebrated Egyptologist Kara Conney’s narrative explores the lives of six remarkable female pharaohs, from Hatshepsut to Cleopatra, and shines a light on female power, exploring the connections between Woman’s roles as public figures then, and now.
The Nile: A Journey Downriver through Egypt’s Past and Present
Wilkinson takes readers on both a historical and contemporary journey down the Nile, highlighting the small details that intertwine river landmarks with and Egypt’s ancient civilization.
In a Desert Land, Photographs of Israel, Egypt and Jordan
A stunning collection of photographs of the desert Middle East, including the Sinai, Petra and Jerusalem.
Islam, A Short History
Armstrong brings authority and experience to this vivid, clear-headed survey of the history and impact of Islam from the birth of Muhammad to present-day challenges. The best short introduction to the subject.
Meals
43 Meals
15 Breakfasts
14 Lunches
14 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Gluten Free, Vegetarian, Low Salt, Low Fat
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
- Nov 11, 2024 - Nov 27, 2024
- Nov 07, 2024 - Nov 23, 2024 (Jerusalem to Cairo)
- Nov 11, 2024 - Nov 27, 2024 (Jerusalem to Cairo)
3 nights
Jerusalem
Hotel Prima Royale in Jerusalem is inspired by the artists, writers, poets, and musicians of the Capital City. Located close to all significant Jerusalem sites and cultural attractions and quietly tucked away between the residential streets of the city’s Talbiya neighborhood, guests can enjoy the creativity and history of this beautiful city.
2 nights
Nazareth
Hotel Ramada Nazareth is a modern oriental boutique hotel located on the ridge of Nazareth facing over the old city. With 195 rooms, two restaurants, a bar, pool and spa, and fitness center Ramada Nazareth is a great place to relax while taking in the sights and sounds of the old city. There are many places to explore and enjoy in the surrounding areas. Hotel Ramada Nazareth is a walk away from beautiful religious sites, winding old city streets, and markets.
1 night
Amman
Kempinski Hotel Amman is centrally located in the business district of the capital Amman. With only a five minute walk to the city's major attractions guests can experience both leisure and adventure in the vibrant city.
2 nights
Petra
The Mövenpick Resort Petra is situated right in the historic Jordanian city of Petra. It features a lovely combination of natural stone, handcrafted wood, and Middle Eastern fabrics and textures. The Mövenpick Resort Petra includes a fountain and a rooftop garden ideal for relaxing and enjoying the sunset over Petra.
2 nights
Giza
The Steigenberger Pyramids Hotel is located in the city of Giza, a walk away from the iconic Great Pyramids, and a short drive away from the Grand Egyptian Museum. A great place for both relaxation and sightseeing, guests can enjoy surrounding restaurants, bars, and the sunset from the hotel terrace.
3 nights
Aswan
Steigenberger's MS Minerva is a 5 star ship where guests enjoy a comfortable and luxury cruise on the Nile River.
2 nights
Cairo
The Semiramis InterContinental hotel is located in the heart of the Cairo facing the Nile River. The hotel is nearby to historic landmarks and close to the downtown center. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool and terrace with views of the sunset over the Nile River.
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3 nights
Jerusalem
Hotel Prima Royale in Jerusalem is inspired by the artists, writers, poets, and musicians of the Capital City. Located close to all significant Jerusalem sites and cultural attractions and quietly tucked away between the residential streets of the city’s Talbiya neighborhood, guests can enjoy the creativity and history of this beautiful city.
2 nights
Nazareth
Hotel Ramada Nazareth is a modern oriental boutique hotel located on the ridge of Nazareth facing over the old city. With 195 rooms, two restaurants, a bar, pool and spa, and fitness center Ramada Nazareth is a great place to relax while taking in the sights and sounds of the old city. There are many places to explore and enjoy in the surrounding areas. Hotel Ramada Nazareth is a walk away from beautiful religious sites, winding old city streets, and markets.
1 night
Amman
Kempinski Hotel Amman is centrally located in the business district of the capital Amman. With only a five minute walk to the city's major attractions guests can experience both leisure and adventure in the vibrant city.
2 nights
Petra
The Mövenpick Resort Petra is situated right in the historic Jordanian city of Petra. It features a lovely combination of natural stone, handcrafted wood, and Middle Eastern fabrics and textures. The Mövenpick Resort Petra includes a fountain and a rooftop garden ideal for relaxing and enjoying the sunset over Petra.
2 nights
Giza
The Steigenberger Pyramids Hotel is located in the city of Giza, a walk away from the iconic Great Pyramids, and a short drive away from the Grand Egyptian Museum. A great place for both relaxation and sightseeing, guests can enjoy surrounding restaurants, bars, and the sunset from the hotel terrace.
MS Blue Shadow II
3 nights
Cairo
Princess Cruise Line’s MS Blue Shadow II is a modern, luxurious riverboat sailing the Nile River. Launched in 2019, this five-deck ship can accommodate up to 116 guests in 58 spacious cabins.
2 nights
Cairo
The Semiramis InterContinental hotel is located in the heart of the Cairo facing the Nile River. The hotel is nearby to historic landmarks and close to the downtown center. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool and terrace with views of the sunset over the Nile River.
See All Lodging Options
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