Ancient Egypt by Train V: An Epic 10-day Expedition across Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

Upon your arrival in Luxor, our friendly team will be waiting to greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Take a moment to relax and settle in. We'll treat you to a delicious dinner in the evening, allowing you to savor the local flavors. You'll spend the night in Luxor, preparing for an exciting day.

We kick off the day with a visit to the West Bank of Luxor, where you'll uncover the secrets of the legendary Valley of the Kings, home to the tombs of pharaohs. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the awe-inspiring Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and witness the grandeur of the Colossi of Memnon.

After lunch, we offer an optional excursion to the East Bank. Here, you can immerse yourself in the splendor of the Karnak Temple Complex, an architectural marvel that will leave you in awe. We'll also visit the majestic Luxor Temple, a testament to the grandeur of ancient Egypt. Return to your hotel in Luxor and enjoy a restful overnight stay.

Today, we embark on a train journey from Luxor to Aswan as we delve deeper into the wonders of ancient Egypt. Upon arrival, we'll visit the renowned High Dam, an impressive engineering feat that tamed the mighty Nile River. Our next stop is the Unfinished Obelisk, where you'll learn about the craftsmanship and artistry of the ancient Egyptians.
For those seeking even more adventure, we offer an optional visit to the beautiful Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. In the afternoon, prepare to be enchanted as we take an optional felucca ride on the serene Nile River, circling Elephantine Island. You'll also have the chance to visit the Nubian Village, immerse yourself in the local culture, and admire the stunning old cataract. We'll conclude the day with a delectable dinner and a comfortable overnight stay in Aswan.

Start your morning with an optional excursion to Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its magnificent temples carved into the mountainside. Afterwards, we'll transfer to the train station for our journey to Cairo. Enjoy the scenic views along the way as we make our way to the bustling capital. Dinner will be served onboard the train, providing a dining experience as we head towards Cairo.

As we arrive in Cairo, prepare for an unforgettable day exploring the wonders of this ancient city. Our first stop is the iconic Giza Plateau, where you'll be left speechless by the grandeur of the Pyramids of Giza, including the majestic Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. Marvel at these architectural marvels and contemplate the mysteries that have captivated generations.
Next, we'll visit the enigmatic Sphinx, a true symbol of Egypt, and explore the nearby Valley Temple. After a delightful lunch, we'll take you to the renowned Egyptian Museum, home to a vast collection of ancient artefacts, including the world-famous treasures of Tutankhamun. Prepare to be mesmerized by these walls' rich history and cultural heritage. Afterwards, Head to your Hotel and Stay overnight
During the evening, an enchanting experience awaits as you reserve a dinner aboard the Dahabpiya, a magnificent boat that will transport you on a memorable night cruise along the Nile River in Cairo.

Enjoy your breakfast in Cairo before heading to the airport to catch your direct flight to Tabuk. Departure is by Nessma Air at 13:20 from Cairo, with an expected arrival in Tabuk at 15:00. Upon reaching Tabuk Airport, our representative will be there to assist you with immigration visas. Rest assured, we will take care of your luggage and ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel in Amman for an overnight stay. Take this opportunity to sit back, relax, and prepare for the exciting journey that lies ahead.

In the afternoon, you'll have the chance to discover the Tabuk Castle, an ancient fortress located in Tabuk, the capital city of the Tabuk Region in northwestern Saudi Arabia. Dating back to 1559, this historic castle has been meticulously restored and transformed into a captivating museum that welcomes all visitors. Explore at your own pace and immerse yourself in the rich history of the region, as the museum is situated in the former railway station building, constructed during the Ottoman Empire era.

After an enjoyable evening, get ready for your upcoming adventure in Saudi Arabia, where you'll follow in the footsteps of the legendary Lawrence of Arabia. Embrace the allure of this iconic destination and allow yourself to be captivated by the remarkable experiences that await you.

After breakfast, we will embark on our journey with an English-speaking driver. If the group size exceeds six travelers, a private tour guide will accompany you. Our first destination is Tayma Oasis, located approximately 200 km from Tabuk. Tayma, also known as Tema, boasts a rich history of settlement and is situated in northwestern Saudi Arabia. It marks the starting point of the trade route between Medina and Dumah (al-Jawf) as it traverses the vast An Nafud desert

After a satisfying lunch, our journey continues to Al Ula, where we expect to arrive before sunset. Upon checking in at your hotel, take a leisurely stroll to immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Later in the evening, we will delight in a delicious dinner at Al Ula Old Town, followed by a soothing cup of tea or coffee near the iconic Elephant Rock. Before returning to the hotel, enjoy a peaceful overnight stay.

After lunch, we will proceed to Al Midainah. On our way, we will make a stop at Kahaybar Oasis for a tour before continuing to Al Madainah. Once we arrive, we will visit the Al-Madinah Museum, which is situated at the historic Al-Hijaz Railway Station. This remarkable railway museum was inaugurated in 2006 and features a captivating exhibition of engines, rolling stock, and artifacts that are connected to the Hejaz Railway. Additionally, the museum includes a section of the original track and a train shed, providing an opportunity to explore and appreciate the rich heritage of this iconic railway.

After breakfast, we will head to Jeddah by a high-speed train. Upon arrival, we will assist you in checking into your hotel. You will have some free time to relax and explore at your own leisure.
In the afternoon, a guided tour of the historic old town of Jeddah awaits you. Over the course of three hours, you will immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of this vibrant city. Discover the charming streets, traditional architecture, and bustling markets that make the old town so captivating.
In the evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner with your knowledgeable tour guide. Enjoy a delicious meal as you reflect on the memorable experiences of your journey. Afterward, return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Make the most of your time in Jeddah as you soak up the unique atmosphere and bid farewell to this remarkable destination.

As the sun rises on the final day of our unforgettable journey through Egypt and Saudi Arabia, we bid you farewell. After indulging in a delicious breakfast, you will be accompanied by our attentive driver who will ensure your timely arrival at the airport. As you embark on your homeward voyage, take a moment to reflect and cherish the enchanting memories of this extraordinary expedition. From the majestic pyramids of Egypt to the captivating wonders of Saudi Arabia, let these cherished moments accompany you on your way back, forever etching this remarkable trip in your heart.