North Africa and Middle East Tours
- Great Pyramids of Giza
- Luxor and the Valley of the Kings
- Felucca on the Nile
- Casablanca
- Marrakesh (Morocco)
- Wadi Rum (Jordan)
- Petra (Jordan)
Birthplace of several of the world's great religions and considered by many the cradle of civilization, the Middle East is a loosely defined area of incredible variety and dramatic contrasts. From secular, progressive Turkey to mysterious Yemen, the region's long history is on display at every turn, making the region an archaeologist or historian's dream. For centuries a political and religious hotbed, the Middle East luxhas been fought over since the time of Alexander the Great, and every twist of history has left its unique mark, from the varied, mouth-watering cuisine to architectural wonders second to none.
Israel Explorer (DOIE)
Perched at the crossroads of Middle Eastern history for centuries and the spiritual home to Jews, Christians and Muslims alike, Israel remains a must-visit destination for anyone eager to understand this dynamic, always-changing region. Explore the historic towns of Bethlehem and Nazareth, tune into the rhythm of daily life in the Golan Heights, visit Bedouin communities in the Negev desert and experience a soul-stirring visit to a refugee camp. Thousands of incredible moments—one comprehensive trip.
Highlights: swimming in the Dead Sea, Visiting a Palestinian refugee camp, exploring the biblical towns of Nazareth and Bethlehem, gazing across the Negev Desert, staying in a Bedouin camp.
Egypt Explorer (DPEE)
Encompassing Egypt’s greatest highlights and a 3-day Nile cruise, this itinerary enhances a wide variety of included activities with the expertise of our CEOs—through whom you’ll gain a greater appreciation of the region’s history and archaeological finds. Discover the secrets of the Great Pyramids and explore the Valley of the Kings and the temples of Abu Simbel. A combination of sleeper trains, air-conditioned transport and domestic flights will get you to the sights—and your comfortable accommodations—quickly and conveniently. From ancient history to bustling modern Cairo, embark on an incredible journey to the very heart of Egypt.
Highlights: Marvelling at the Pyramids of Giza and the temples of Abu Simbel, savouring a traditional Nubian dinner and a Nile cruise, bargaining in bazaars.
- Trip Style:
- G-Plus
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Wonders of Jordan (DWWJD)
Never heard of Wadi Rum or the lost city of Petra? You’re missing out. These natural and architectural treasures, tucked away in southern Jordan, are but a few of the memorable experiences you’ll be telling your friends about long after you’ve come home. Aided by an expert local guide, this trip takes you from the incredible Romanesque city of Jerash and a dip in the Dead Sea, to the hidden rock city of Petra and the magnificent rock formations of Wadi Rum, the 'Valley of the Moon'. This trip in three words? Timeless, transcendent, tremendous.
Highlights: Exploring ancient ruins and archaeological sites with an expert guide, Immersing yourself in the Dead Sea, Enjoying cooking demonstrations and tasting local speciality foods, Travelling to a desert camp and learning about the ancient Bedouin culture and history.
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Marrakech Express (EEME)
There’s so much to see in Europe; don’t settle for a cramped bus tour. Head south for an adventure as unique as you are. Beginning in London—traveller central—you’ll cross the channel for some French culture before hitting Spain for Moorish history, architecture in Barcelona and a tapas culture that will set you up for the endless nightlife. Best of all, this trip doesn’t fade out—you’ll finish up in Morocco with its mosques, medinas and kasbahs. It’s a European tour with a southern kiss of the exotic.
Highlights: Meeting the ghost of Moorish Spain at the Alhambra, sampling small plates on a tapas bar crawl, dining on a picnic lunch at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, exploring the medinas and kasbahs of Morocco, dodging snake charmers, keeping it real with a small group of like-minded travellers.
Iran - Discover Persia (ARIR)
Follow in pilgrims' footsteps and explore the history of old Persia and the spirit of the new Iran. Discover magnificent mosques, small mountain villages and colourful gardens, and gain deeper insight into this ancient land. Wander the streets of ancient capitals and desert cities and witness spectacular Zoroastrian temples. Your expert CEO will take the hassle out of planning and organizing, leaving you free to uncover the gems of Iran at the best cultural monuments and in the stalls of exotic bazaars.
Highlights: Bargaining in the bazaars, walking through palace gardens, savouring Persian cuisine, relaxing in classic teahouses and meeting the friendliest locals in the world, visiting ancient Persepolis and Pasargadae.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Egyptian Archaeology Adventure (DPEAD)
As you cross the sands into the shadow of the Sphinx, you’re reminded that Egypt is perfect for those that delight in mysteries. Feel the thrill of discovery as you pursue treasures through the halls of the Egyptian Museum and gems of a different sort in the Khan el-Khalili bazaar. In Abu Simbel, witness the glory of Ramses II and the modern engineering that saved it from ruin. Then, for a real taste of Egyptian culture, visit a Nubian village and share a traditional dinner with a local family. Embrace your inner archaeologist and discover the Land of the Pharaohs. Let’s go!
Highlights: Exploring Egypt with an expert Egyptologist guide, Enjoying a traditional Nubian dinner in a local family's home, Learning Egyptian ancient history and archaeology on location, Tasting popular traditional foods in local restaurants.
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Egypt & Jordan Adventure (DPJA)
A wide-ranging adventure showcasing the region’s natural wonders and fascinating cultures, offering the perfect combination of guided excursions and free time to explore at your own pace. Our expert local leaders will share with you the archaeological and historical secrets of the ancient sites of Petra, Luxor and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Whether it’s haggling in Cairo’s bustling bazaars or snapping a desert sunset, Egypt and Jordan will forever be etched into your memory—like a hieroglyph.
Highlights: Discovering ancient civilizations and architectural wonders, relaxing at the Red Sea, enjoying an overnight felucca journey with support boat, bargaining in bazaars, camping in a Bedouin tent, marvelling at the rock-cut architecture of Petra.
Spirit of Israel (DOSPD)
Israel is a crossroads of major religions and major history—it deserves contemplation. By basing this journey in three major centres—Tel Aviv, Akko and Jerusalem—this 12-day journey gives you the chance to settle into the city and your hotel before exploring the spiritual, historical and archaeological aspects of this ancient land. You’ll meet Carmelite Christian, Palestinian, Bedouin and Orthodox and Modern Jewish cultures. But don’t forget your camera, with visits to the Dead Sea, Nazareth, Bethlehem and the Mount of Olives, you’re going to need it.
Highlights: Encountering three of the world's major religions in the Holy Land, Visiting a kibbutz for a meal and meeting the local residents, Investigating the 2,000 year-old ruins of Qumran and learning about the Dead Sea scrolls, Gazing up at the blue skies while floating on your back in the Dead Sea, Witnessing the contrast between village life and big city existence.
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Ancient Egyptian Secrets (DPESD)
Feel that familiar pull of adventure returning? There they are—the Great Pyramids of Giza. From Cairo’s ghostly monuments to a seaside paradise on the Red Sea, our expert guides will descend into the pages of history and join you in the exploration of Egypt’s ancient secrets and its legendary pharaohs. From the grandeur of Abu Simbel and a cruise down the Nile to a dinner with a local Nubian family, the mysteries of Egypt will etch themselves into your memory.
Highlights: Partaking in daily on-site lectures with your local Egyptologist, Exploring some of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, Learning about Islamic and Christian beliefs in the Middle East, Snorkelling at the blue hole, Experiencing colourful local markets and restaurants
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Archaeological Wonders of Egypt & Jordan (DPAWD)
It took archaeologist Howard Carter eight years of sweat and frustration to find the tomb of Tutankhamun. We doubt you’ll have nearly as much trouble. On this unforgettable voyage through the archaeological and natural marvels of the Ancient World, you’ll visit Egyptian temples and pyramids, walk the valleys of Petra, explore the magnificent Wadi Rum via 4x4 while travelling and sleeping in pure comfort. You don’t have to be of royal descent to appreciate the Valley of the Kings, but after 16 days with us, you’ll feel like one.
Highlights: Visiting ancient temples and archaeological sites with a local Egyptologist guide, Digging deeper into Jordan's famed historical sites, Exploring local cultures, Tasting local delicacies and learning to make them for yourself, Embracing the desert overnight in a tented camp.
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
West Africa Cruise - Cape Town to Marrakech (XVCMDX)
People have been exchanging customs and ideas in Western Africa as long as there have been people. Now, it’s your turn. From the MS Expedition, you’ll get the chance to explore one of Africa’s most vibrant (and curiously underexplored) regions from a hotel that goes wherever you do. A solid combination of activity and leisure, you’ll have ample time to spot rare birds and endemic wildlife with skilled naturalists, mingle in local markets and learn about the region from our experienced expedition staff, including naturalists, historians, anthropologists, and ornithologists. While at sea we’ll also enjoy South African wine tastings from our very own sommelier and enjoy daily lectures from experts before wrapping it all up in enchanting Marrakech. Africa by sea? We didn’t believe it was possible either.
Highlights: Learn the history of voodoo and the slave trade, visit multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Explore bustling local markets and colonial architecture in historic West African ports, Gain insight into the region's modern history, Interact with our expert expedition team while enjoying the comfort and cuisine of the MS Expedition.
- Trip Style:
- Small Ship Cruising & Sailing
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Physical Grading:
- 2
| Trip | Length | Style | Service Level | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Israel Explorer (DOIE) | 8 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1799
USD
|
| Egypt Explorer (DPEE) | 12 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$1870
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$2199
|
| Wonders of Jordan (DWWJD) | 8 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$1899
USD
|
| Marrakech Express (EEME) | 15 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1899
USD
|
| Iran - Discover Persia (ARIR) | 14 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1955
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$2299
|
| Egyptian Archaeology Adventure (DPEAD) | 9 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$1999
USD
|
| Egypt & Jordan Adventure (DPJA) | 17 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$2199
USD
|
| Spirit of Israel (DOSPD) | 12 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$2599
USD
|
| Ancient Egyptian Secrets (DPESD) | 15 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$3099
USD
|
| Archaeological Wonders of Egypt & Jordan (DPAWD) | 16 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$4299
USD
|
| West Africa Cruise - Cape Town to Marrakech (XVCMDX) | 32 days | Small Ship Cruising & Sailing | N/A |
From
$16999
USD
|
