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Adventure Tours   >   North Africa / Middle East Adventure Tours   >  Jordan to Egypt: The Sinai Peninsula & The Shimmering Red Sea

Jordan to Egypt: The Sinai Peninsula & The Shimmering Red Sea Adventure Tour

North Africa / Middle East

  • Egypt
  • Jordan

Egypt's Sinai Peninsula is a land of stark beauty, deep history, and wild adventure - a true crossroads of ancient empires. If you're craving something off the beaten path, this eight-day journey through lesser-known Jordan and the rugged Sinai is exactly what you need. Start in Madaba, home to the oldest surviving map of the Holy Land, then take a thrilling 4x4 ride through the dramatic dunes of Wadi Araba. Cross the Gulf of Aqaba to Dahab, a laid-back coastal haven with chances for world-class optional snorkelling in the famous Blue Hole. Then, step into history at Saint Catherine, the world's oldest active Christian monastery, before hiking to the summit of Mount Sinai - where legend says Moses received the Ten Commandments. From vast deserts to sacred sites, this trip is made for travellers ready to push their boundaries and experience something extraordinary.

Details

Prices from: €1049.00

Duration: 8 Days

Merchandising: New Trips

Service Level: Basic

Physical Grading: 2 - Light

Trip Type: Small Group

Travel Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Call Us: 01 2311889
Day 1 Madaba

Arrive at any time and welcome to the “City of Mosaics”. Madaba is known for its rich collection of artistic treasures. After meeting your CEO and fellow group members see for yourself and choose to attend an optional dinner.

Day 2 Madaba to Wadi Araba

Get ready for an adventure into the lesser-known desert landscape of Wadi Araba, lying on the border between Jordan and Israel. Feel the wind whip through your hair on a 4x4 ride deeper into the wadi where you'll stop for tea before hiking to a nearby pond. Enjoy time to float in the water before driving to an unforgettable area for sunset. Then, settle in at your camping spot for a night spent under the stars.

Day 3 Wadi Araba to Dahab

Depart the calm and quiet of the desert and travel into Egypt's Sinai Peninsula. The journey will take the group across the Gulf of Aqaba and onward to Dahab. This hip, beach town is known for its vibrant underwater world, amazing windsurfing conditions, and a unique blend of bohemian relaxed atmosphere and adventure. Dahab's turquoise waters beckon to visitors from the desert shore. Spend a few free hours to explore and enjoy the beachside accommodations along the Red Sea.

Day 4 Dahab

There's nothing quite like a day in paradise, especially a beach location that is seldom visited by tourists. Spend your time in Dahab as adventurous or leisurely as you'd like. Choose to visit Ain Khudra Oasis, which is special for its Bedouin culture, historical significance, palm trees, and natural beauty. The water source here has been used for thousands of years amid the dry, harsh desert climate. This excursion will take all day, but other options include a beach day or if you're feeling extra brave, some windsurfing. The choice is yours, and sometimes that makes it all the more sweeter.

Day 5 Dahab

Fall further in love with the coastline of the Sinai Peninsula during another free day in paradise. Choose to pull those adventure caps on and book an optional snorkelling excursion to Dahab's famed Blue Hole. Located in the Abu Galoum Nature Reserve, this submarine sinkhole has a depth of over 300ft and is located just a couple of feet offshore, thus having minimal current. Choose to snorkel amid the stunning biodiversity here and enjoy time in the nature reserve via boat. Your other options for the day include hanging out at the beachfront accommodations or lounging in the sun by the inviting waters of the Red Sea.

Day 6 Dahab/Saint Catherine

Take one final look at the Red Sea before travelling away from Dahab. The group will head inland to St. Catherine's Monastery and visit the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monastery in the world. It is said to have been built near the site of the Burning Bush and where Moses supposedly received the Ten Commandments. Experience this UNESCO World Heritage site and learn about the herbal gardens grown within the valley, and their different uses. Later, interact with Bedouin local women during a handicrafts exhibition. Sunset will be watched from a scenic location this evening, and an early bed time is encouraged to rest up for tomorrow's hike up Mount Sinai.

Day 7 Saint Catherine/Cairo

It's said in the Bible that God made the Earth in six days and rested on the seventh. Today marks a week on your Sinai Peninsula adventure and today's experience, while rewarding, is certainly not relaxing. Begin the sunrise hike to the stop of Mount Sinai in the very early hours of the morning. Arrive in time to catch a memorial sunrise of Egypt's most religious landscape and stand on the site that is considered to be the place where God appeared to Moses and revealed the Ten Commandments. Hike back down to St. Catherine and enjoy some food and time to freshen up before your day of travel back to Cairo. The route will cross the Suez Canal. Arrive in Cairo by the afternoon and get settled. Tonight's activity is a Big Night Out with the group to a favorite local spot.

Day 8 Cairo

Today is departure day, but do not fret! There is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Hug your new friends, exchange social medias, and depart at any time.


Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.


Group Leader Description  

This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.

We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.


Packing List  

Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
• Warm waterproof jacket

Conservative Dress:
• Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
• Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear


Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.


Transport  

Private vehicle, 4x4, hydrofoil ferry, walking


What's Included  

Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Big Night Out Moment: Cairo , Cairo. Wadi Araba Hike. Wadi Araba Camping. Saint Catherine's Monastery Visit. Mount Sinai Sunrise Hike. Free time in Dahab. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Arrival Complications  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.


A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.


Group Size Notes  

Max 16, avg 12


My Own Room  

Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops


Joining Instructions  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

If you would like to book an airport Arrival transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.

If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.

Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.

Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don't see a note, please ask reception for details!

If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.


International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.


Max Pax  

16


Highlights  

Choose to snorkel the vibrant Blue Hole of Dahab in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, Visit Saint Catherine's Monastery-the world's oldest continuously operating Christian monastery dating back thousands of years, Hike to the summit of Mount Sinai where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments, Cross the legendary Suez Canal a vital link between Europe and Asia


Accommodation  

Hotels (6 nts), Desert camp (1 nt).


Meals Included  

6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner


Finishing Point Instructions  

If you would like to book an airport Departure transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.


Solo Travellers  

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.


Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.


Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!


Travel Insurance  

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.


Feedback  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.


Group Leader  

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.


Optional Activities  

Dahab
- Windsurfing in Dahab
- Beach time in Dahab

TRAVEL AWARE - STAYING SAFE AND HEALTHY ABROAD

The Department of Foreign Affairs has up-to-date advice for Irish citizens on staying safe and healthy abroad. For more security, local laws, health, passport and visa information see https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/ and follow dfatravelwise