Start your trip by exploring the iconic Pyramids of Giza in the morning. Marvel at the ancient wonders and learn about their historical significance. In the afternoon, visit the Egyptian Museum to see the fascinating collection of artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing felucca boat ride along the Nile River, enjoying the picturesque views of Cairo's skyline.
Pyramids of Giza: Cost estimate - Included in entrance ticket to complex, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Nile River Felucca Ride: Cost estimate - EGP 150-200 (approximately $10-13), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Cairo is Abou Tarek. They are known for their traditional Egyptian dish, Koshary, and the average cost for a meal here is about 50 EGP per person.
For lunch, head to Felfela for delicious traditional Egyptian cuisine. Try their falafels and mixed grills, with an average cost of around 80 EGP per person for a meal.
End your day with a dinner at Sequoia, a trendy riverside restaurant with stunning views of the Nile. They offer a variety of dishes, from seafood to grilled meats, and the average cost for a meal here is about 200 EGP per person.
Sunday, January 14: Luxor, Egypt
Start your day with a hot air balloon ride over the ancient city of Luxor, experiencing breathtaking views of the Nile River and the Valley of the Kings. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Karnak Temple, one of the largest religious complexes in the world. As the evening approaches, take a peaceful stroll along the Luxor Corniche, enjoying the waterfront views and vibrant atmosphere.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Cost estimate - EGP 1,000-1,500 (approximately $65-100), Time spent - 2-3 hours
A local favorite for breakfast in Luxor is Aboudi Restaurant, known for its delicious Egyptian-style breakfast dishes. With an average cost of around 50 EGP per person, it offers an affordable and filling start to your day.
For a tasty lunch in Luxor, head to Sofra Cafe, a charming eatery offering a variety of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. Enjoy their flavorful falafel wraps or hearty shawarmas for an average cost of around 80 EGP per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Nile Lilly Floating Restaurant. Situated on a traditional Nile boat, it offers panoramic views of the river and delectable Egyptian cuisine. Indulge in their mouthwatering koftas or grilled seafood dishes, with an average cost of around 150 EGP per person.
Monday, January 15: Aswan, Egypt
In the morning, visit the majestic Abu Simbel temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the colossal statues and intricate carvings. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride on the Nile River to the beautiful Elephantine Island. Explore the island's botanical gardens and visit the Nubian Village to experience the local culture. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Nubian dinner with live music.
Abu Simbel Temples: Cost estimate - EGP 200 (approximately $13), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Boat Ride to Elephantine Island: Cost estimate - EGP 100-150 (approximately $7-10), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Satisfy your breakfast cravings at Nile View Restaurant, located along the banks of the Nile River. Enjoy a delicious buffet spread with an assortment of Egyptian and international breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
For lunch, head to 3al Alexandrina Restaurant, known for its authentic Egyptian cuisine. Try their mouthwatering grilled kebabs and flavorful falafel. The average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
Dine at Al-Andalus Restaurant for dinner, where you can savor traditional Egyptian delicacies in a cozy and elegant setting. Indulge in their signature dish, roasted lamb with rice and aromatic spices. The average cost for a meal is about €20 per person.
Tuesday, January 16: Petra, Jordan
Embark on a full-day excursion to the ancient city of Petra. Marvel at the famous Treasury, explore the Siq, and discover the intricately carved facades of the Royal Tombs. Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage site. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Jordanian meal in the charming town of Wadi Musa.
Petra Excursion: Cost estimate - JOD 50-90 (approximately $70-125) for entrance ticket, Time spent - Full day
Traditional Jordanian Meal: Cost estimate - JOD 10-15 (approximately $14-21), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Award-winning breakfast spot, Almond Bakery, serves up delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, head to Abu Hani Restaurant, known for its authentic Jordanian cuisine. Try the popular dish, mansaf, a traditional lamb and rice dish. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Savor a delightful dinner at Sufra Restaurant, where you can enjoy a wide range of Middle Eastern and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Wednesday, January 17: Wadi Rum, Jordan
Embark on a thrilling 4x4 desert safari in Wadi Rum, exploring the stunning landscapes of sand dunes, rock formations, and ancient inscriptions. Enjoy a traditional Bedouin lunch in the heart of the desert. In the afternoon, take a camel ride and visit the Lawrence's Spring, a natural water source in the desert. Spend the evening stargazing and camping under the vast desert sky.
Wadi Rum Desert Safari: Cost estimate - JOD 60-80 (approximately $85-110), Time spent - 4-5 hours
Camel Ride: Cost estimate - Included in safari package, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Stargazing and Camping: Cost estimate - JOD 20-30 (approximately $28-42), Time spent - Overnight
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Al Qawafel, a charming restaurant offering a variety of Middle Eastern and international breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Wadi Rum Rest Camp Restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Jordanian cuisine while taking in breathtaking views of the desert. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at The Bedouin Lodge Restaurant, known for its traditional Bedouin dishes and warm hospitality. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Thursday, January 18: Dead Sea, Jordan
Start your day with a visit to the ancient city of Jerash, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins. Explore the majestic temples, theaters, and colonnaded streets. In the afternoon, head to the Dead Sea and experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in its salty waters. Enjoy a therapeutic mud bath and relax by the shore. In the evening, watch the sunset over the Dead Sea while sipping on a refreshing drink.
Dead Sea Visit: Cost estimate - JOD 20-30 (approximately $28-42), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Sunset at the Dead Sea: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Al Quds Restaurant located near the Dead Sea. They offer a wide variety of Middle Eastern dishes such as falafel, hummus, and shakshuka. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
If you're looking for a hearty lunch, visit Kan Zaman Restaurant in Jerash. This charming restaurant serves traditional Jordanian cuisine including mansaf, a national dish made with lamb, rice and yogurt sauce. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Mijana Restaurant in Amman. This upscale restaurant offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Arabic flavors. Try their signature dish, roasted lamb with spices, or indulge in their seafood platter. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Friday, January 19: Amman, Jordan
In the morning, explore the historical sites of Amman, including the Citadel and the Roman Amphitheater. Immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture at the bustling Rainbow Street. In the afternoon, visit the Royal Automobile Museum to see a fascinating collection of classic cars. As the evening sets in, indulge in delicious Jordanian cuisine at one of the local restaurants.
For breakfast, head to Jasmine House Cafe for a delicious Middle Eastern spread. This cozy cafe offers a variety of traditional Jordanian dishes, such as ful medames and manaqish. The average cost for a meal is about 10-15 JOD per person.
For lunch, try Sufra Restaurant for an authentic Jordanian culinary experience. This restaurant serves a range of traditional dishes, including mansaf and maqluba. The average cost for a meal is about 15-20 JOD per person.
In the evening, satisfy your taste buds at Hashem Restaurant, one of the oldest and most famous restaurants in Amman. Known for its mouthwatering falafel and hummus, this restaurant is a local favorite. The average cost for a meal is about 5-10 JOD per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Egypt and Jordan, don't miss the chance to visit the lesser-known gems and local favorites. In Egypt, visit the colorful Khan El Khalili market in Cairo, where you can find unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in the bustling local atmosphere. In Jordan, explore the ancient city of Madaba, famous for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics. Don't forget to try the delicious Jordanian street food, such as falafel and shawarma, for an authentic culinary experience.