11-Day Western Middle East Southern/Coastal Route: Egypt, Jordan & Israel in January
Embark on a sophisticated 11-day odyssey through the 'Western' Middle East, where the ancient world meets contemporary luxury. This route focuses on the sun-drenched coasts of the Red Sea and the Mediterranean, offering a refined blend of historical exploration and high-end relaxation during the mild January winter.
From the private desert camps of Wadi Rum to the chic beachfronts of Tel Aviv and the monumental grandeur of Cairo, every step is curated for the discerning traveler. Expect seamless cross-border transits, five-star dining, and exclusive access to the world's most iconic landmarks.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Cairo, Egypt - Arrival & Nile Luxury
VIP Airport Meet & Greet
Enjoy a seamless arrival with a private fast-track service through Cairo International Airport, followed by a luxury transfer to your hotel overlooking the Nile.
Sunset Felucca Sail
Glide down the Nile on a private traditional wooden felucca as the city lights begin to shimmer against the twilight sky.
Dinner at The Revolving Restaurant
Experience panoramic views of Cairo and the Nile while enjoying fine international cuisine at the top of the Grand Nile Tower.
Evening at leisure
Relax at your hotel's terrace bar, taking in the mild January breeze and the sounds of the bustling city.
Day 2: Cairo, Egypt - Pyramids & Grand Egyptian Museum
Private Giza Plateau Tour
Explore the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx with a private Egyptologist, including exclusive access to the base of the Pyramid of Khufu.
Lunch at 9 Pyramids Lounge
Dine at the only restaurant located on the Giza Plateau itself, offering unobstructed views of the ancient wonders.
The Grand Egyptian Museum
Visit the world's largest archaeological museum, housing the complete Tutankhamun collection in a state-of-the-art facility.
Old Cairo Culinary Walk
Discover the hidden gems of Al-Muizz Street and Khan el-Khalili with a guided gastronomic tour focusing on gourmet Egyptian street food.
Day 3: Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt - Red Sea Relaxation
Domestic Flight to the Coast
Take a short, comfortable flight from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh, the crown jewel of the Sinai Peninsula.
Check-in at Four Seasons Resort
Settle into a sea-view suite at one of the region's most prestigious luxury resorts, featuring private beach access.
Afternoon Spa Session
Indulge in a signature treatment using Red Sea salts and minerals at the resort's world-class spa facility.
Seafood Dinner by the Shore
Enjoy the catch of the day at a candlelit table overlooking the Tiran Island straits.
Day 4: Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt - Private Yacht & Coral Reefs
Private Yacht Charter
Board a luxury yacht for a full-day excursion to Ras Mohammed National Park, famous for its vibrant coral walls and marine life.
Snorkeling in the Blue Hole
Explore hidden underwater gardens with a private guide, far from the tourist crowds.
Gourmet Lunch on Deck
A private chef prepares a Mediterranean feast as you cruise along the rugged Sinai coastline.
Sunset Cocktails
Return to the resort for sundowners at the Observatory Bar, known for its extensive mixology menu.
Day 5: Sharm El Sheikh to Aqaba (Egypt/Jordan) - Cross-Border Voyage
Luxury Transfer to Taba
Travel in a private vehicle to the border town of Taba, enjoying views of the desert mountains meeting the sea.
Fast-Ferry to Aqaba
Cross the Gulf of Aqaba on a high-speed ferry, transitioning seamlessly from Egypt to the Kingdom of Jordan.
Aqaba Marine Park
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon at a private beach club in Aqaba, Jordan's only coastal city, known for its tropical vibe.
Jordanian Fine Dining
Sample refined Levantine cuisine at Burj Al Hamam, offering stunning views of the Red Sea marina.
Day 6: Aqaba to Wadi Rum, Jordan - Martian Luxury Glamping
Transfer to the Valley of the Moon
A short drive inland takes you from the coast to the majestic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum.
Check-in at a Luxury Martian Dome
Stay in a high-end 'bubble' tent with panoramic windows, offering a luxury glamping experience amidst the red dunes.
Private 4x4 Desert Safari
Explore the filming locations of 'The Martian' and 'Lawrence of Arabia' in a customized luxury jeep.
Traditional Zarb Dinner
Enjoy a feast cooked underground in the traditional Bedouin way, followed by stargazing with a professional astronomer.
Day 7: Wadi Rum to Petra, Jordan - The Rose City Experience
Early Departure to Petra
Drive through the scenic King's Highway to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Petra.
Private Guided Siq Walk
Enter the ancient Nabatean city through the narrow Siq canyon, culminating in the breathtaking reveal of The Treasury.
Lunch at Basin Restaurant
Refuel with a high-end buffet inside the archaeological park before the climb to the Monastery.
Petra by Night
Return to the Treasury for a magical evening experience lit by thousands of candles (available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays).
Day 8: Petra to Eilat (Jordan/Israel) - Desert to Coast
Transfer to Arava Border
Travel from the mountains of Petra down to the Arava border crossing between Jordan and Israel.
Cross into Israel
Complete the border formalities at Eilat. Experience the immediate shift to the modern, vibrant atmosphere of Israel's southernmost resort.
Underwater Observatory Marine Park
Visit the unique observatory that sits 6 meters below the sea surface to view the northernmost coral reefs in the world.
Eilat Promenade Dining
Dine at one of the upscale beachfront restaurants in Eilat, enjoying the duty-free shopping and lively nightlife.
Day 9: Eilat to Tel Aviv, Israel - Mediterranean Sophistication
Domestic Flight to Tel Aviv
Fly from Ramon Airport to Ben Gurion or Sde Dov for a quick entry into Israel's cultural capital.
Check-in at a Boutique Hotel
Settle into a restored historic building in the heart of the White City, a UNESCO-listed Bauhaus district.
Tel Aviv Promenade Stroll
Walk the Mediterranean coastline from the modern port to the ancient city of Jaffa.
Gourmet Dinner at Shila
Experience the peak of Tel Aviv’s culinary scene with fresh seafood and vibrant local wines.
Day 10: Tel Aviv & Jaffa, Israel - Culture & Culinary Delights
Carmel Market Food Tour
Explore the famous shuk with a private chef, sampling artisanal cheeses, halvah, and local spices.
Bauhaus Architecture Tour
Join an expert-led walk to discover the 'White City' architecture that defines Tel Aviv's urban landscape.
Old Jaffa Art Galleries
Wander the narrow limestone alleys of Jaffa, visiting exclusive artist studios and the ancient harbor.
Farewell Dinner in Neve Tzedek
Dine in Tel Aviv's first neighborhood, now a chic enclave of high-end boutiques and romantic bistros.
Day 11: Tel Aviv, Israel - Departure
Relaxed Breakfast at the Hotel
Enjoy a final lavish Israeli breakfast with fresh salads, pastries, and shakshuka.
Last Minute Shopping
Visit the designer boutiques on Dizengoff Street for unique Israeli fashion and jewelry.
Private Transfer to Ben Gurion
A luxury vehicle takes you to the airport for your departing flight, concluding your Middle Eastern escape.
Flight Departure
End of your 11-day luxury coastal journey through Egypt, Jordan, and Israel.
Best Time to Visit Middle East
January is the peak winter season, offering the most comfortable climate for exploring the Western Middle East. While much of the Northern Hemisphere is frozen, Cairo and Tel Aviv enjoy mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). The Red Sea remains warm enough for swimming and diving. It is a 'low-high' season; while it is peak time for sightseeing without the heat, you can still find exclusive luxury experiences without the overwhelming crowds of the summer or spring holidays. Note that nights in the Jordan desert can be quite cold, so layering is essential.
Visas & Border Crossings
Navigating borders in this region requires planning. Most Western travelers can obtain an e-visa for Egypt and Jordan, or a visa on arrival. For Israel, many nationalities are visa-exempt but must receive an electronic entry permit. Crossing the Arava border (Jordan to Israel) is generally straightforward for tourists, but it is highly recommended to use a private transfer service to handle luggage and logistical hurdles. Always check the latest diplomatic requirements as they can change frequently.
Getting Around Middle East
To maintain a luxury pace, this itinerary utilizes short domestic flights and private chauffeur-driven vehicles. Domestic airlines like EgyptAir and Arkia offer quick links between major hubs, turning day-long drives into 60-minute hops. For cross-border travel between Egypt and Jordan, the high-speed ferry from Taba to Aqaba is the most efficient and scenic route. Within cities like Tel Aviv and Cairo, private car services are the preferred method for safe, comfortable, and air-conditioned transit.
