Egypt & Jordan Adventure - 15 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is included in this tour?

  Your G for Good Moment: Funtasia Project Visit, Luxor. Your G for Good Moment: Al Safi Community Lunch, Jordan Valley. Your G for Good Moment: Safi Crafts Visit, Wadi Rum. Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group. Your Local Living Moment: Boat ride to Nubian Village with Traditional Meal, Aswān. Your Discover Moment: Aswān. Your Local Living Moment: Lunch with a Local Family, Luxor. Your Local Living Moment: Bedouin Camp Overnight, Wadi Rum. Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx and Grand Egyptian Museum guided tour. Felucca sailing excursion. Karnak and Kom Ombo temples guided tour. Temple of Hatshepsut and Valley of the Kings guided tour. Colossi of Memnon visit. Wadi Rum jeep excursion. Petra guided tour. Karak castles and Madaba mosaics visit. Dead Sea visit. Internal flight. All entrance fees. Assistance with obtaining your Jordanian visa on arrival to Queen Alia airport in Amman. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, 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.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Please be advised that any flights noted on the the tour operator Itinerary for this tour are included in the tour services provided. Flight tickets are provided by the tour operator during the tour. The date for this service will match the day of the itinerary, for which Day 1 is equal to the start date noted on the Invoice under Land Services: Tour. If flight information is required in advance for visa purposes, please contact the tour operator.Domestic carriers for internal flights in Egypt will be Egypt Air or Nile Air. Flight information will not be available until a couple of days prior to the tour departure.The domestic flight maximum weight allowance is 20 kg.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  DRINKING WATER: It is advisable to drink bottled water in Egypt and Jordan. Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure. There are no specific health requirements for this trip. However, we recommend protection against typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis and polio. Though malaria does exist in Egypt, it is not normally found in the areas where we travel. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes, as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities for some time during this trip, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc.

• Are there any special itinerary notes to be aware of?

  -Please note that during Ramadan, the museum, and Egyptian pyramids will close at 3PM this year, and so we will follow the below order, and schedule on Day 2.Visit the Pyramids from 9 - 11Visit the museum from 11:30 - 14:30Lunch from 15:00 - 16:00 before heading to the train station

• Do I need to pay a departure tax?

  10 JOD departure tax for all nationalities to be paid in cash if departing overland.

• How large will the group be?

  Max 16, avg 10

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  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!

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a the tour operator tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  While visiting mosques and other religious monuments you should dress modestly, cover your shoulders and you shouldn't wear short shorts or skirts. Outside of capital cities and the more touristic centres, local dress is often more conservative and as a matter of respect we ask that both men and women are aware of this and recommend loose-fitting clothes with your shoulders covered. Ask your CEO for more specific advice.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

  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.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  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.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Tipping is a way of life in the Middle East. Locals themselves will usually tip anyone who provides them with services. In many cases, people depend on the tips they receive to supplement the low salary and wages of the Middle East region.While on tour in the Middle East, it is customary and even expected to tip small service providers such as restaurant and bar waiters, hotel staff, reception, cleaning personnel, bell boys, taxis and van drivers. Tips are regarded as an essential means of supplementing income for those working in the tourism industry.To make things as easy as possible and avoid embarrassing situations, the tour operator has developed a tipping kitty system where your CEO will collect a contribution from everybody at the start of your tour and use this kitty to tip anybody who has provided services to the group as a whole. A guideline for tipping in Egypt is about $6-9 USD per day, and about $10-13 USD per day for Jordan depending on the quality of the service (this does not include your the tour operator CEO). On Day 1 of your tour, your CEO will be able to advise on the amount required from everybody to form the tipping kitty for your trip. You can pay in USD or the equivalent local currency (preferably local currency). The CEO will be able to advise you on the exchange rate and the total required in either currency. If at any time you feel that any service provider failed in maintaining or delivering good service, please bring it immediately to the attention of your CEO so a deduction of tips can take place.At the end of your trip if you felt that your the tour operator CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is also expected and appreciated. The precise amount is entirely a personal preference, however $6-9 USD per person per day in Egypt and $10-13 USD per person per day can be used as a general guidelines.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  Cairo- Islamic and Coptic Cairo TourAswān- Philae Temple Visit- Visit the Souk (Free)- Philae Temple Sound and Light Show (70USD per person)- Temple of Abu Simbel VisitLuxor- King Tutankhamen Tomb (300EGP per person)- Luxor Temple and Museum Tour (60USD per person)- Luxor Temple Visit (160EGP per person)Dead Sea- Mud Baths (3JOD per person)- Site of Jesus' Baptism (18JOD per person)Karak- Beit Al Jameed Optional Lunch ActivityPetra- Petra by Night (30JOD per person)- Turkish Bath (45JOD per person)Wādī Mūsá- Siq al-Barid (Little Petra) Visit (8JOD per person)Wadi Rum- Wadi Rum 4x4 Excursion Extension (70JOD per group)Aqaba- Aqaba Boat Trip with Snorkelling- Beit Al Ward - Saayadia Cooking Class

• What are the joining instructions for the tour?

  For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the the tour operator 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 the tour operator representative will be at the airport to meet you holding a the tour operator sign with your name on it. They will meet you inside the airport before immigration as they are all licensed airport representatives. 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.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Discover ancient civilizations and architectural wonders, Relax at the Red Sea, Journey down the Nile on a felucca, Bargain in bazaars, Camp in a Bedouin tent in the desert, Marvel at the rock-cut architecture of Petra

• What modes of transportation will be used on this trip?

  On this trip we will use a mixture of train, private van, felucca, plane and en route to Wadi Rum and our desert camp we will travel in 4x4 vehicles. For more information see the detailed itinerary.

• What are the trip specific safety considerations?

  Like anywhere in the world, major cities have areas safer than others, use common sense, be aware of your surroundings and mind your personal belongings

• What do I need to know about safety and security on my trip?

  Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit: www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/

• What happens if I experience problems when arriving?

  We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and 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.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Hotels (12 nts), sleeper trains (1 nt), desert camping (1 nt). On this trip you can expect to stay in small local hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  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.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP) and the currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD)ATMs are found within main cities in Egypt and Jordan and will generally accept cards on the Visa and Mastercard networks. It is a great idea to travel with both a Visa and Mastercard if at all possible as while there is no hard and fast rule, some banks seem to only work with one brand of card. Please note, your bank will change a fee for overseas withdrawals.Cash is recommended for times when ATMs are not accessible. Euros, British Pounds and US Dollars are all easy to exchange to the Local currency. Please note that you should bring some cash with you for emergency situations but carrying only cash is a high safety risk. ATM card/s and some cash is the ideal mix. If you are bringing US Dollars, please make sure that the notes are new and in good condition. Notes older than 1996, or with any tears or blemishes may not be accepted. Be fussy with your bank when buying cash!As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all of our travelers is a priority at the tour operator and that includes our travelers who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. We recognize that there are specific concerns and questions you may have about your adventure in terms of safety and security. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on this page can be of particular help when deciding where you may want to visit next.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency?

  Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the the tour operator Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our the tour operator Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFERIf you have purchased an arrival through the tour operator or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERSRegional Office Emergency Contact Number: +212 662 312 072Arrival or Departure Transfer Emergency Phone Number: +20 100 000 3945If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here.Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999

• Who will be leading the group?

  CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

• Will I get my own room if traveling solo?

  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. 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.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 3.

• What is the travel style of this tour?

  The travel style for this tour is Classic.

• What is the overall focus of the "Egypt & Jordan Adventure" tour?

  This adventure showcases the region’s natural wonders and fascinating cultures, offering a combination of guided excursions with free time. It focuses on the archaeological and historical secrets of ancient sites like Petra, Luxor, and the Great Pyramids of Giza, alongside experiences like haggling in Cairo’s bazaars and enjoying desert sunsets.

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation includes 12 nights in hotels, 1 night on a sleeper train, and 1 night desert camping.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 10.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes private air-conditioned vans, trains, planes, feluccas (traditional Nile sailboats), and 4x4 pickup trucks for desert excursions.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, any flights noted on the itinerary for this tour, including the flight between Cairo and Amman, are included in the tour services. Domestic carriers for internal flights in Egypt will be Egypt Air or Nile Air. The domestic flight maximum weight allowance is 20 kg.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. No single supplement is applied unless you specifically book the "My Own Room" option.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  The group will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout the tour.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling to Egypt and Jordan?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water. Inoculations may be required; consult your travel doctor. We recommend protection against typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis, and polio. Though malaria exists in Egypt, it's not normally found in areas visited. Carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers, as leaders are prohibited from administering drugs.

• What should I know about safety and security on my trip?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewellery at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. Your CEO can amend itineraries for safety reasons and will accompany you on included activities. Exercise good judgment during free time, especially at night in major cities, and consider taking taxis.

• What are the trip-specific safety considerations?

  Like anywhere in the world, major cities have areas safer than others; use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and mind your personal belongings.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip regarding illegal drugs or exploitation?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is contrary to our philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member if drugs are found or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers.

• What are the local currencies and what should I know about money exchange and credit cards?

  The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP) and in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). ATMs are available in main cities and generally accept Visa and Mastercard. It is advisable to carry both card types if possible. Cash is recommended for situations where ATMs are not accessible, and Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars are easy to exchange. Bring new, undamaged US Dollar notes if applicable.

• Should I bring emergency money, and if so, how much?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join without evidence of coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD 200,000). Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage coverage are also strongly recommended.

• Are visas required for Egypt and Jordan, and is there assistance provided?

  While we provide assistance with obtaining your Jordanian visa on arrival to Queen Alia airport in Amman, it is your responsibility to ensure you have the necessary visas for all countries visited. International flights are generally not included, but local flights mentioned in the itinerary are covered.

• Is tipping customary in Egypt and Jordan, and how is it handled?

  Tipping is customary in the Middle East. To simplify this, your CEO will collect a 'tipping kitty' contribution at the start of the tour (guideline: $6-9 USD/day for Egypt, $10-13 USD/day for Jordan) to tip service providers for the group. Tipping your CEO for outstanding service is also appreciated, with similar daily guidelines.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include: In Cairo: Islamic and Coptic Cairo Tour. In Aswan: Philae Temple Visit, Philae Temple Sound and Light Show (70USD), Temple of Abu Simbel Visit, Visit the Souk (Free), Nubian Museum. In Luxor: King Tutankhamen Tomb (300EGP), Luxor Temple and Museum Tour (60USD), Luxor Temple Visit (160EGP). In Dead Sea: Mud Baths (3JOD), Site of Jesus' Baptism (18JOD). In Karak: Beit Al Jameed Optional Lunch Activity. In Petra: Petra by Night (30JOD), Turkish Bath (45JOD). In Wadi Musa: Siq al-Barid (Little Petra) Visit (8JOD). In Wadi Rum: Wadi Rum 4x4 Excursion Extension (70JOD per group). In Aqaba: Aqaba Boat Trip with Snorkelling, Beit Al Ward - Saayadia Cooking Class.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  When visiting mosques and religious monuments, dress modestly, covering your shoulders, and avoiding short shorts or skirts. In more conservative areas outside capital cities, loose-fitting clothes with covered shoulders are recommended for both men and women out of respect. Your CEO can offer specific advice.

• What is the Planeterra Foundation and how is it involved with this tour?

  Planeterra is a non-profit committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses (e.g., Funtasia Project, Al Safi Community Lunch). The tour operator is Planeterra's largest donor, covering operating costs, so 100% of donations go directly to projects.

• When can I do my laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. It is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for hand washing, as there may be times you need to do your own laundry.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include discovering ancient civilizations and architectural wonders, relaxing at the Red Sea, journeying down the Nile on a felucca, bargaining in bustling bazaars, camping in a Bedouin tent in the desert, and marveling at the rock-cut architecture of Petra.

• How old must I be to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Will I get my own room?

  If you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops. Otherwise, single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.