How Many days are required to visit Egypt and Jordan?
Traveling to Egypt and Jordan offers a unique opportunity to explore two of the most historically rich and culturally vibrant countries in the Middle East. With their stunning landscapes, ancient wonders, and captivating histories, planning a trip that allows you to experience the best of both destinations is essential. However, determining how many days to spend in each country can be challenging. This guide will help you navigate the optimal duration for your visit, ensuring you make the most of your time in Egypt and Jordan.
Introduction Egypt and Jordan
Egypt and Jordan are two countries that boast an abundance of historical and cultural treasures. Egypt is renowned for its ancient civilization, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Nile River, and the temples of Luxor, while Jordan offers breathtaking sites like Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum. Combining both countries into a single trip allows travelers to immerse themselves in rich histories and explore diverse cultures.
Key Factors to Consider
Before delving into how many days are ideal for each country, consider the following factors that can influence your travel duration: Best of Egypt and Jordan Tours
- Travel Goals: Are you primarily interested in historical sites, outdoor activities, relaxation on the beach, or a mix of experiences?
- Pace of Travel: Some travelers prefer a packed itinerary, while others enjoy a more leisurely pace that allows for spontaneous exploration.
- Available Time: How many days do you have for your trip overall? This will largely dictate your itinerary.
Recommended Itinerary for Egypt
2.1 Ideal Duration: 7-10 Days
For a comprehensive exploration of Egypt, a duration of 7 to 10 days is generally recommended. This timeframe allows you to visit key destinations such as Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, while also enjoying some leisure time. Here’s a breakdown of how you might allocate your time:
Sample 10-Day Itinerary
Days 1-3: Cairo
Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
- Arrive in Cairo and check into your hotel.
- Visit the Egyptian Museum to see the treasures of Tutankhamun, including mummies and artifacts from ancient Egypt.
Day 2: Giza Plateau
- Spend the day at the Giza Plateau, exploring the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.
- Consider a camel ride around the pyramids and visit the Solar Boat Museum, which houses a reconstructed ancient ship.
Day 3: Islamic Cairo
- Explore the historic district of Islamic Cairo, visiting the Citadel of Saladin and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali.
- Stroll through Khan El Khalili bazaar for shopping and local crafts.
Days 4-5: Luxor
Day 4: Travel to Luxor
- Fly or take an overnight train to Luxor.
- Visit Karnak Temple in the afternoon, one of the largest temple complexes in the world, known for its impressive columns and sacred lakes.
Day 5: Valley of the Kings
- Spend the day in the Valley of the Kings, where you can explore the tombs of pharaohs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun.
- Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon.
Days 6-7: Aswan
Day 6: Travel to Aswan
- Take a morning train or flight to Aswan.
- Visit the High Dam and the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis.
Day 7: Abu Simbel
- Take a day trip to Abu Simbel to see the majestic temples built by Ramses II.
- Return to Aswan and enjoy a relaxing evening by the Nile River.
Days 8-10: Optional Red Sea or Return to Cairo
Day 8: Travel to Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh
- If you have extra time, fly or drive to Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh for a few days of relaxation on the Red Sea.
- Enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing on beautiful beaches.
Days 9-10: Return to Cairo
- If you prefer to return to Cairo, spend these days exploring any remaining sights or shopping before your departure.
2.2 Shorter Trips: 5-7 Days
If you’re short on time, a focused trip of 5 to 7 days can still provide a rewarding experience in Egypt. Here’s a sample itinerary:
Sample 7-Day Itinerary
Days 1-3: Cairo
- Follow the same itinerary as above for the first three days.
Day 4: Luxor
- Fly or take a train to Luxor and visit Karnak Temple.
Day 5: Valley of the Kings
- Spend the day exploring the Valley of the Kings and nearby sites.
Days 6-7: Return to Cairo
- Fly back to Cairo for your departure or enjoy some leisure time.
Recommended Itinerary for Jordan
3.1 Ideal Duration: 5-7 Days
For a comprehensive exploration of Jordan, a duration of 5 to 7 days is generally recommended. This timeframe allows you to visit key sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. Here’s a breakdown of how you might allocate your time:
Sample 7-Day Itinerary
Days 1-3: Amman
Day 1: Arrival in Amman
- Arrive in Amman, Jordan’s capital. Check into your hotel and relax.
- Explore the downtown area, visiting the Roman Theatre and the Citadel.
Day 2: Jerash and Ajloun
- Take a day trip to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Explore its ancient ruins, including temples, theaters, and colonnaded streets.
- Visit Ajloun Castle for stunning views of the surrounding area before returning to Amman.
Day 3: Madaba and Mount Nebo
- Visit Madaba, known for its ancient mosaics, and see the famous mosaic map of the Holy Land.
- Continue to Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land, and enjoy panoramic views.
Days 4-5: Petra
Day 4: Travel to Petra
- Depart early for Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the day exploring this ancient city carved into the rock.
- Walk through the Siq, the narrow gorge leading to the Treasury, and discover the various tombs and temples.
- Spend the night in a hotel near Petra.
Day 5: More of Petra
- Continue exploring Petra, visiting the Monastery and other key sites.
- If time allows, hike to the viewpoint for stunning views of the Treasury.
Days 6-7: Wadi Rum and Dead Sea
Day 6: Wadi Rum
- Travel to Wadi Rum, a stunning desert landscape known for its dramatic sandstone mountains.
- Take a jeep tour of the desert, visiting iconic sites and learning about Bedouin culture.
- Spend the night in a Bedouin camp, enjoying traditional dinner and stargazing.
Day 7: Dead Sea
- Travel to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth.
- Spend the day relaxing by the water, floating in the salt-rich sea, and enjoying spa treatments.
- Return to Amman in the evening for your departure.
3.2 Shorter Trips: 3-5 Days
If you have limited time, a focused trip of 3 to 5 days can still provide a rewarding experience in Jordan. Here’s a sample itinerary:
Sample 5-Day Itinerary
Days 1-2: Amman
- Follow the same itinerary for the first two days.
Day 3: Travel to Petra
- Spend the day exploring Petra.
Day 4: Wadi Rum
- Spend the day in Wadi Rum, exploring the desert landscape.
Day 5: Dead Sea or Return to Amman
- Relax at the Dead Sea or return to Amman for your departure.
Combining Egypt and Jordan: Ideal Duration
4.1 Recommended Duration: 10-14 Days
If you plan to visit both Egypt and Jordan, a duration of 10 to 14 days is ideal. This timeframe allows you to experience the highlights of both countries without feeling rushed. Here’s how you might structure your combined itinerary:
Sample 14-Day Itinerary
Days 1-4: Cairo, Egypt
Days 1-3: Explore Cairo
- Arrive in Cairo and spend the first three days visiting the Egyptian Museum, the Pyramids of Giza, and Islamic Cairo.
Day 4: Day Trip to Alexandria
- Take a day trip to Alexandria to explore its ancient library, catacombs, and the beautiful Mediterranean coast.
Days 5-7: Luxor, Egypt
Day 5: Travel to Luxor
- Fly or take an overnight train to Luxor.
Days 6-7: Explore Luxor
- Spend two days visiting the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the Temple of Hatshepsut.
Days 8-10: Travel to Jordan
Day 8: Travel to Amman
- Fly from Luxor to Amman.
Days 9-10: Explore Amman
- Spend two days visiting Jerash, Ajloun Castle, and the historic sites in Amman.
Days 11-12: Petra, Jordan
Day 11: Travel to Petra
- Depart early for Petra and spend the day exploring.
Day 12: More of Petra and Wadi Rum
- Spend the morning in Petra and then travel to Wadi Rum in the afternoon for a jeep tour.
Days 13-14: Dead Sea and Departure
Day 13: Relax at the Dead Sea
- Spend a day relaxing at the Dead Sea before returning to Amman.
Day 14: Departure
- Depart from Amman for your onward journey.
4.2 Shorter Combined Trips: 7-10 Days
If you have limited time, a focused trip of 7 to 10 days can still provide a rewarding experience. Here’s a sample itinerary:
Sample 7-Day Itinerary
Days 1-3: Cairo
- Follow the same itinerary for the first three days in Cairo.
Days 4-5: Luxor
- Fly to Luxor for two days of exploration.
Day 6: Travel to Amman
- Fly from Luxor to Amman.
Day 7: Explore Amman
- Spend the last day visiting key sites before your departure.
Jordan and Egypt: A Perfect Dual Destination
When planning a trip to Egypt and Jordan, the ideal duration largely depends on your travel goals, interests, and available time. A comprehensive exploration of both countries typically requires 10 to 14 days, allowing you to experience the highlights of each destination without feeling rushed. However, shorter itineraries of 3 to 7 days can still provide rewarding experiences, especially if you focus on key sites and activities.
