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.
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
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.
Absolute Egypt (DPAE)
Dig deep and discover the riches of Egypt's geography, culture and, of course, archaeology, on this epic adventure. Step into a world filled with giant statues, temples and legendary pyramids. Take it easy as you float along the Nile on a traditional felucca or take a dip in Cleopatra's pool. Our CEOs and local experts will share an intriguing combination of the region’s attractions and hidden secrets. Meet the gaze of the Sphinx and get into the spirit of bygone times travelling by donkey to the Valley of the Kings. Encounter another side of Egypt at Siwa Oasis and spend an unforgettable night camping under the stars of the White Desert.
Highlights: Visiting ancient monuments, dining with local families, spending the night on a traditional felucca, camping under desert skies, exploring ancient mudbrick towns.
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
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
Egypt on a Shoestring (DPRE)
Ancient wonders, bustling markets and rugged mountain views—experience the best of Egypt's history and culture on this budget adventure. Sail the Nile and wander through the temples and tombs of the Valley of the Kings. Of course, you'll witness the magnificence of the pyramids, but you can also climb Mt Sinai and relax at the beachside village of Dahab along the Red Sea. While you're free to choose your own adventure, your accommodation and transportation are included and our expert CEOs will help you make the most of your time spent in this ancient region.
Highlights: Shopping in bazaars, taking an overnight felucca journey with support boat, exploring ancient temples and city streets, relaxing at the Red Sea, dining with the locals in a Nubian village.
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
Highlights of Morocco (DCHM)
If you want to hit Morocco’s highlights, this is your adventure. Wander through kasbahs, spice markets and cities pulsing with energy on this comprehensive trip. Climb onto a camel and explore the edge of the Sahara before admiring the views from the heights of the Atlas Mountains. Experience the energy of imperial cities as you explore souks stuffed with exotic wares. Then take a moment to appreciate this amazing adventure as you camp under the stars among some of the world's biggest sand dunes.
Highlights: Wandering ancient medinas and Roman ruins, riding a camel into the Sahara, spending the night in a desert tent and a mountain gîte, bargaining in exotic souks.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Moroccan Dreams (DCMDD)
The winding streets of Morocco’s ancient medinas are bursting with so many colours and flavours that you’ll be planning a return visit soon after arrival. Explore the souks and streets of Marrakech, head to a luxury desert camp on an overnight 4x4 excursion, explore Atlas Mountains' villages and unwind on the coast in Essaouira. Travel is comfortable and well-paced and our expert guide will be on hand to offer context and reveal its hidden gems. By focusing on the energy of the people, you'll discover the true treasures of Morocco.
Highlights: Stepping into the past at the ancient kasbah village of Aït Benhaddou (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Exploring the Sahara Desert by 4x4 then spending the night in a luxury tented camp, Visiting mountain villages to learn the secrets of Moroccan cooking, Strolling through ancient medinas and markets to watching artisans demonstrate their age-old skills.
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
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
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
Morocco Active Adventure (DCAA)
With a landscape as diverse as Morocco’s, the transportation must be built to match. The simple pleasures of just getting around are essential to this activity-heavy excursion into the desert kingdom: mule treks into the Atlas Mountains, bike rides through ruggedly beautiful mountain passes, even a camel caravan to a campsite in the desert. But it’s not all tramping about in the dunes and hills; you’ll also have the chance to explore Essaouira, the fortified city on the Atlantic coast that was once a haven for pirates.
Highlights: Wandering through the mountains on the back of a mule, getting a new perspective on a camel ride, staying in beach camps and mountain gîtes, cycling through the Atlas Mountains
Egypt Family Adventure (DPFC)
History class is way more interesting once you’ve stood where it all happened. Treat your kids to an unforgettable journey back to the age of the pharaohs on this incredible 10-day tour of Egypt’s ancient wonders. It begins with the iconic monuments and pyramids around Cairo, Abu Simbel and a cruise down the Nile. Next, it’s three full days in Luxor for temple visits, Karnak and a camel ride. Then, it’s off to the coast of the Red Sea for three days of well-earned downtime before heading home. Ancient history should always be this hands-on.
Highlights: Gazing in awe at mummies in the ancient pyramids, Snorkelling among brightly coloured fish in the Red Sea, Riding a camel out in the desert
Marvellous Morocco (DCMM)
Watch the sun rise above the highest sand dunes in Morocco and journey through fresh cedar forests in the Atlas Mountains. From the bustling souks of imperial cities and meandering lanes of old medinas, travel into the heart of Morocco without foregoing comfort. Get off the beaten path while exploring mudbrick kasbahs and conquering Saharan sand dunes by 4x4. With comfortable accommodation and transport by private air-conditioned van arranged by your CEO, you'll be free to experience Morocco's Roman heritage and Islamic grandeur in style.
Highlights: Exploring Roman ruins and ancient medinas, enjoying a desert 4x4 excursion, visiting traditional kasbahs, bargaining in exotic souks and marketplaces.
Jordan Active Adventure (DJAA)
Jordan is famed for its ancient past, but its present is pretty darn compelling, too. The natural and man-made wonders of Petra and Wadi Rum have been drawing travellers here for ages, but the rough-hewn grandeur of Jordan has remained a secret known only to the boldest of thrill-seekers. Trek the rocky hills to isolated villages along the trails near Ajloun, hike down canyons towards the Dead Sea and discover the Dana Biosphere Reserve. See for yourself why Jordan is a secret we just couldn’t keep to ourselves any longer.
Highlights: Guided visit of Jerash, trekking Aljoun Reserve, admission to Dead Sea Resort, canyoning and abseiling through Wadi Mujib, trekking in Dana Nature Reserve, Petra 2-day entrance and 1-day guided tour, visit to Little Petra, Wadi Rum 4x4 jeep excursion with local lunch and dinner, overnight in Wadi Rum desert tented camp, camel ride in Wadi Rum.
Cairo to Amman on a Shoestring (DPCA)
From the Red Sea to the Dead Sea, soak up the sun from Cairo to Jordan as you take in the best beaches, desert wilderness and cultural treasures. Perfect for those short on time but wanting to explore Wadi Rum and the ruins at Petra, this trip keeps costs down with desert camping and chilled-out beach huts. With your accommodation and transportation arranged by our CEOs, you can concentrate on choosing your own adventure—pack your trip with everything you want and nothing you don't. We’ll take care of the hassles, leaving you free to indulge in optional excursions and soak up the vibe of the Middle East.
Highlights: Relaxing at the Red Sea, discovering ancient cities and monuments, camping overnight in a Bedouin tent.
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
Moroccan Desert Adventure (DCMD)
Marrakech—whisper it and instantly your mind goes to a place of seduction and spices. Experience it for yourself. This intense 1-week journey through Morocco reveals the secrets of Marrakech and Casablanca and is crammed with all the activities and energy you crave. In the company of other young travellers, dance beside a campfire in the Sahara, go rock climbing in Todra and hang with the hippies in Essaouira. Explore the kasbahs, coast and desert and lose the herd on a trip you’ll never forget.
Highlights: Getting lost in ancient medinas, dodging snake charmers, riding a camel to a desert camp, bargaining in exotic souks, hanging with the hippies of Essaouira, experiencing this land of mystery for yourself.
Morocco Family Adventure (DCMF)
Wedged between the Mediterranean and the great Sahara, Morocco is essentially one massive beach. But there is way more to do here than just lie around and tan. Bursting with captivating history and fascinating culture, this manageable 8-day itinerary is the perfect balm for your family’s all-inclusive resort blues. Camel rides and campouts in the desert, surfing lessons in Essaouira, the magic of Marrakech and more await. Don’t forget the sunblock!
Highlights: Experiencing the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, camel trekking along the beach at Sidi Kaouki, Learning to surf at Essaouira
| Trip | Length | Style | Service Level | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Africa Cruise - Cape Town to Marrakech (XVCMDX) | 32 days | Small Ship Cruising & Sailing | N/A |
From
$16999
USD
|
| Egypt & Jordan Adventure (DPJA) | 17 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$2199
USD
|
| Absolute Egypt (DPAE) | 16 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1599
USD
|
| Archaeological Wonders of Egypt & Jordan (DPAWD) | 16 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$4299
USD
|
| Ancient Egyptian Secrets (DPESD) | 15 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$3099
USD
|
| Egypt on a Shoestring (DPRE) | 15 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1199
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
|
| Highlights of Morocco (DCHM) | 14 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1275
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$1499
|
| Moroccan Dreams (DCMDD) | 12 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$1700
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$1999
|
| Spirit of Israel (DOSPD) | 12 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$2599
USD
|
| Egypt Explorer (DPEE) | 12 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$1870
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$2199
|
| Morocco Active Adventure (DCAA) | 10 days | Active | Basic |
From
$999
USD
|
| Egypt Family Adventure (DPFC) | 10 days | Family | Comfort |
From
$1199
USD
|
| Marvellous Morocco (DCMM) | 9 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$1599
USD
|
| Jordan Active Adventure (DJAA) | 9 days | Active | Standard |
From
$1299
USD
|
| Cairo to Amman on a Shoestring (DPCA) | 9 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1149
USD
|
| Egyptian Archaeology Adventure (DPEAD) | 9 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$1999
USD
|
| Moroccan Desert Adventure (DCMD) | 8 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$699
USD
|
| Morocco Family Adventure (DCMF) | 8 days | Family | Standard |
From
$749
USD
|
