19 Days Rabat, Cairo, Nile Cruise, Marrakech, & Petra Tour

The iconic Hassan Tower is a powerful symbol of Almohad ambition and architectural grandeur. It was commissioned in the 12th century by Caliph Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur. The structure was intended to anchor what would have been one of the largest mosques in the world. Construction halted in 1199 following the caliph’s death, leaving the impressive 44-meter minaret and a forest of stone columns that reveal the monumental scale of the unfinished project.

The marvelous Mausoleum of Mohammed is an honorable attraction and the final resting place of King Mohammed V, alongside King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. Completed in 1971 and designed by architect Cong Vo Toan, this stunning white-marble monument blends traditional Moroccan artistry with refined modern elements, creating an atmosphere of dignity, balance, and quiet reflection.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, your journey continues through Rabat’s historic treasures.

The Kasbah of the Udayas rises above the point where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. Its winding alleys, Andalusian-style gardens, and scenic terraces offer sweeping coastal views. The kasbah’s entrance is marked by the magnificent Bab Oudaia Gate, dating to the late 12th century, a masterpiece of Almohad stonework and decorative design.

The Royal Palace of Rabat "Dar al-Makhzen" is an imposing complex built in 1864 that remains the official residence of Morocco’s monarchy. Surrounded by guarded gates and spacious courtyards, the palace reflects the enduring authority and prestige of the royal institution. While visitors cannot enter the interior, its majestic façade leaves a lasting impression.

As the day draws to a close, travel toward the picturesque mountain town of Chefchaouen, pausing along the way to admire the changing landscapes. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk through the town’s enchanting blue-painted medina before settling in for a peaceful overnight stay amid the tranquil beauty of the Rif Mountains.

Chefchaouen is a blue divine flower that was established as a fortified mountain town in 1471. Over the centuries, Andalusian and Jewish settlers introduced the tradition of painting their buildings in soothing shades of blue, often linked to spirituality, the sky, and a sense of calm. As you stroll through the medina’s winding lanes, stepped pathways, and graceful archways, each glowing in hues from pale sky blue to rich indigo. Everyone will discover a peaceful atmosphere that sets Chefchaouen apart as one of Morocco’s most picturesque and beloved towns.

You will continue your discovery of a city renowned for its intellectual, beauty, and spiritual legacy, starting with:

Outa el Hammam Square is found in the core of the medina, the lively historical center of Chefchaouen. Overlooking the square is the Kasbah, a fortified citadel built shortly after the town’s founding in the 15th century. Its distinctive reddish walls stand in striking contrast to the surrounding blue streets. Framed by cafés, traditional eateries, and artisan shops, the square reflects the gentle rhythm of daily life, where locals gather over fragrant mint tea and animated conversations continue into the evening.

As evening falls over the ancient medina, settle into a traditional riad in Fes, where tranquil courtyards, intricate mosaics, and softly lit lanterns create a peaceful and authentic setting for your overnight stay.

Al-Qarawiyyin University is a miraculous palace of knowledge that was founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri and recognized as the oldest continuously operating university in the world. For centuries, scholars gathered here to study theology, astronomy, mathematics, and law, making the institution a major center of learning that influenced both Islamic and European scholarship.

The remarkable Bou Inania Madrasa is a 14th-century Marinid architectural masterpiece that radiates allure and grandeur. Distinguished as both a religious school and a congregational mosque, the building showcases exceptional craftsmanship through finely carved cedarwood, gleaming marble floors, and intricate muqarnas ceilings that represent the artistic brilliance of the Marinid period.

The historic Chouara Tanneries is a magical medieval wonder. These skilled craftsmen continue to dye leather using natural pigments such as saffron and indigo. Viewed from surrounding terraces, the colorful stone vats arranged in honeycomb patterns create one of Fes’s most iconic and enduring scenes of traditional craftsmanship.

You will continue your international Middle East tour to the remaining wonders of the golden city of fez, starting with:

The Miraclious Nejjarine Fountain is an architectural jewel from the 18th century, adorned with delicate zellij tilework and finely carved cedarwood panels. Located beside a former caravanserai that once welcomed traveling merchants, the fountain reflects Fes’s long-standing role as a center of trade and cultural exchange.

The revered Moulay Idriss Mausoleum is a majestic monument dedicated to Moulay Idriss II, the founder of Fes and a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad who died in 828 AD. Although the inner sanctuary is reserved for Muslims, visitors can admire its ornate tilework, carved wooden doors, marble columns, and glowing lanterns, elements that highlight the site’s deep spiritual importance.

The surrounding Fes el-Bali medina feels like stepping into a living medieval city. With more than 9,000 narrow streets, it remains the largest car-free urban area in the world. Donkeys still carry goods through labyrinthine alleys, while artisan workshops continue centuries-old crafts that define the city’s identity.

As evening falls over the ancient medina, settle into a traditional riad in Fes for your overnight stay.

The magnificant Bahia Palace is a divine 19th-century residence that reflects the wealth and refined taste of Morocco’s former nobility. Tranquil courtyards open into richly decorated chambers surrounded by scented gardens, while carved cedarwood ceilings, intricate zellij mosaics, and delicate stucco work highlight the remarkable skill of Moroccan artisans.

The divine Koutoubia Mosque is a captivating spiritual spectacle of Marrakech. It was built in 1147 during the reign of the Almohad caliph Abd al-Mu’min, its towering minaret dominates the skyline and stands as a masterpiece of Almohad architecture. While the interior is reserved for worshippers, the surrounding gardens and the mosque’s golden glow at sunset create one of the city’s most memorable views.

The epic Menara Gardens is a marvelous retreat set against the distant peaks of the Atlas Mountains. It was established in the 12th century, and the gardens are centered around a vast reflecting basin supplied by an ancient irrigation system. Rows of olive trees stretch across the grounds, and the graceful pavilion, mirrored in the water, forms one of Marrakech’s most iconic landscapes.

The colorful Majorelle Gardens are a captivating marvel that enchants everyone with the sight of a living miracle. Designed in the 1920s by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, this botanical sanctuary features exotic plants, towering bamboo, peaceful ponds, and pathways painted in the striking Majorelle blue, creating one of the city’s most enchanting spaces.

The Miraculous Dar Si Said Museum is a well-preserved 19th-century palace dedicated to Morocco’s artistic traditions. Its ornate courtyards, carved cedarwood ceilings, and brilliant tilework display remarkable collections of jewelry, carpets, wood carvings, weapons, and traditional crafts that reflect the kingdom’s rich heritage.

You will have your lunch, and it will be served at a local restaurant in Marrakesh, then proceed to visit:

The Legendary Medina of Marrakech is a living miracle, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and forms the cultural heart of the city. Its labyrinth of narrow lanes, hidden riads, and ancient gateways leads to bustling souks where artisans still produce leather goods, textiles, metalwork, lanterns, spices, and perfumes using time-honored techniques.

The Beautiful Jemaa el-Fna Square is one of Morocco’s most dynamic gathering places. As evening approaches, the square transforms into a lively open-air stage filled with musicians, storytellers, performers, and food vendors, capturing the true spirit and energy of Marrakech.

As night settles over the Red City, return to your hotel in Marrakech where dinner awaits, offering a relaxing end to a fascinating day of discovery.

The Giza Plateau is a magnificant and brilliant wonder of ancient Egyptian civilization that still enchants travelers from all over the world. Developed around 2600 BC during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom (2613–2494 BC), this vast royal necropolis reflects remarkable engineering, sacred symbolism, and precise astronomical alignment. For more than four millennia, its monuments have stood as enduring icons of human achievement.

The Great Pyramid of Khufu (2609–2584 BC) still enchants the four cardinal points of the compass, which was completed around 2570 BC under the supervision of the royal architect Hemiunu. As the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World, it was constructed from nearly 2.3 million limestone blocks, each weighing about 2.5 tons. Originally reaching a height of 138.5 meters (454 ft) and weighing close to six million tons, the pyramid’s near-perfect alignment with the cardinal directions reveals an astonishing mastery of mathematics and astronomy.

The Great Sphinx is a thrilling piece of art that was carved directly from the limestone bedrock during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre (2558–2532 BC). With the body of a lion symbolizing strength and the face representing royal authority, this monumental guardian has watched over the plateau for thousands of years. Between its paws rests the Dream Stele of Thutmose IV (1401 BC), recounting a legendary vision that deepens the monument’s sense of mystery.

The Valley Temple is a mysterious creation that provided the gift of immortality to all the pharaohs. It dates to the Fourth Dynasty, served as a sacred site for royal funerary rituals, including the ceremonial Opening of the Mouth. It was built from massive granite blocks and remarkably well preserved; the temple reflects both the spiritual beliefs and advanced construction techniques of Old Kingdom Egypt.

After lunch at a local restaurant, your exploration continues to one of the world’s most remarkable cultural institutions.

The Grand Egyptian Museum is a glorious marvel that took more than a billion dollars to construct. It is made entirely to shed light on more than 5,000 years of Egyptian history and culture. Housing over 100,000 artifacts, including the complete treasures of Tutankhamun, the museum blends innovative architecture with immersive displays. Highlights include the colossal statue of Ramses II, Khufu’s solar boat, and the legendary golden mask of Tutankhamun, alongside state-of-the-art conservation laboratories and galleries overlooking the pyramids.

The Saqqara Step Pyramid changed the course of history by being the main element behind the creation of the great pyramids of Giza. It was built between 2670 and 2650 BC by the visionary architect Imhotep. Rising 62.5 meters (205 ft) above the desert, it is the world’s earliest large-scale stone monument and marks the beginning of pyramid architecture that later reached its peak at Giza.

As the day comes to an end, you will transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight to Aswan. Upon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay in this beautiful Nile-side city.

The Aswan High Dam is one of Egypt’s greatest modern engineering achievements. Constructed between 1960 and 1970, this monumental project transformed the nation by regulating the Nile’s flow, generating hydroelectric power, and protecting farmland from destructive floods. The dam played a vital role in strengthening Egypt’s economy and remains a symbol of the country’s modernization and technological progress.

The Majestic Unfinished Obelisk is a grand granite monument that would have been the largest obelisk ever created in ancient Egypt. Commissioned during the reign of Queen Hatshepsut (1508–1458 BC) to accompany the obelisks of the Karnak Temple Complex, including the famous Lateran Obelisk now in Rome, the project was abandoned after a crack appeared in the stone. Still lying within its original quarry, the obelisk offers rare insight into the impressive stone-carving techniques used by ancient Egyptian artisans.

The beautiful Philae temple is a magnificent sanctuary devoted to Isis, the goddess associated with love, devotion, and rebirth. Built between 380 and 362 BC during the Greco-Roman period, the temple once stood on Philae Island but was later carefully dismantled and relocated to Agilkia Island as part of the UNESCO Nubia Campaign, protecting it from the rising waters created by the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

The mesmerizing Kom Ombo Temple is a fascinating architectural achievement known for its rare symmetrical layout, an unusual feature in ancient Egyptian temple design. Constructed between 180 BC and 47 BC during the Ptolemaic era, the temple was uniquely dedicated to two deities: Haroeris (Horus the Elder), the falcon-headed god of protection, and Sobek, the crocodile god closely linked to the power and fertility of the Nile.

Its perfectly mirrored structure includes dual entrances, parallel hypostyle halls, and twin sanctuaries, reflecting the equal importance of both gods. The temple’s walls are richly decorated with finely carved reliefs, making Kom Ombo one of the most distinctive and captivating temples preserved from ancient Egypt.

The honorable Edfu temple is a unique archaeological marvel known to be the largest and best-preserved sanctuary of Egypt’s Greco-Roman era. Constructed between 237 BC and 57 BC, it was dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed deity symbolizing kingship, divine protection, and the triumph of order.

Its towering stone walls are covered with intricate reliefs and inscriptions, many of which illustrate the legendary struggle between Horus and Seth, a myth representing the eternal victory of harmony over chaos. Walking through its expansive halls, towering columns, and sacred courtyards reveals the rich religious traditions and extraordinary artistic mastery of the Ptolemaic period.

The mysterious Valley of the Kings is undeground royal maze of Egypt’s pharaohs from the 18th to the 20th Dynasties during the New Kingdom (1570–1050 BC). Hidden within the rugged desert hills for nearly five centuries, this sacred valley contains the elaborately decorated tombs of powerful rulers such as Ramses II and Tutankhamun. These underground chambers, carved deep into the mountains and adorned with vivid scenes from sacred texts, reflect the ancient Egyptians’ profound beliefs in the journey to the afterlife.

The golden Hatshepsut temple (1508-1458 BC) is the holy of holies of ancient Egyptian temples, which is dramatically set against the towering cliffs of Deir el-Bahari on Luxor’s West Bank. Constructed around 1479 BC, this elegant temple honors one of Egypt’s most influential female pharaohs. Its graceful terraces, colonnaded halls, and perfectly balanced design make it one of the most impressive and best-preserved architectural masterpieces of ancient Egypt.

The Colossi of Memnon have been resurrected many times in the form of two colossal quartzite statues representing Pharaoh Amenhotep III (1386–1349 BC). These towering figures once guarded the entrance to his vast mortuary temple and remain the only surviving remnants of that grand complex. For centuries, the statues have been associated with fascinating legends, including the mysterious “singing” sound once reported at dawn.

After visiting the Colossi of Memnon, have youe a lunch meal & relax. Then head with your tour guide to visit:

The holy Karnak temple complex is a celestial archaeological marvel where the gods and kings connected with their subjects. It is known to be the largest religious site ever constructed in ancient Egypt. Dedicated to the Theban Triad, Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, this vast sanctuary developed over many centuries between 2000 BC and 30 BC, eventually covering nearly 247 acres. Among its most remarkable features are the impressive Avenue of Sphinxes, the monumental Great Hypostyle Hall with its towering forest of columns, and numerous temples, chapels, and obelisks that reflect generations of devotion and architectural genius.

The Egyptian Museum is a historic landmark opened in 1901 in the heart of downtown Cairo. Created to preserve and display the extraordinary legacy of ancient Egypt, the museum houses thousands of priceless artifacts that reveal the creativity, spiritual beliefs, and artistic achievements of a civilization that flourished along the Nile for millennia.

Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Egyptian dishes before continuing your journey through the historic districts of Old Cairo.

The iconic Hanging Church a.k.a the Church of the Virgin Mary, is a true living miracle and one of the most significant sites in Coptic Christianity. Built in the 5th century AD above the southern gate of the ancient Roman Babylon Fortress, it once served as the seat of the Coptic Patriarch. Rising nearly 30 feet above ground level, the church is admired for its wooden vaulted ceiling, beautiful icons, and serene atmosphere that reflects centuries of faith and traditions connected to the Holy Family’s journey through Egypt.

Amr Ibn Al-Aas Mosque is an honorable structure that holds great value since it was founded in 641 AD following the Islamic conquest of Egypt. As the first mosque ever built in the country, it represents an important milestone in Egypt’s religious history. Although rebuilt several times over the centuries, it remains an active place of worship, distinguished by its graceful arcades and spacious courtyard that embody the simplicity and elegance of early Islamic architecture.

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) is an archaeological hub located in the historic district of Fustat. This modern cultural institution came to be in 2020, which displays more than 50,000 artifacts spanning over four thousand years of Egyptian history. One of its most remarkable highlights is the Royal Mummies Hall, where 28 ancient kings and queens are presented in a carefully designed setting that illustrates the continuity of Egypt’s royal legacy.

Al-Muizz street is a divine marvel that earned the title of being one of the oldest streets in Islamic Cairo, dating back to the 10th century AD. Lined with historic mosques, madrasas, ornate façades, and traditional cafés, this remarkable avenue offers a journey through centuries of architectural beauty and cultural heritage.

Khan El Khalili Bazaar is a celestial marketplace of great significance that was established in 970 AD and has remained one of the Middle East’s most vibrant trading centers for over a thousand years. Its winding alleys are filled with handcrafted jewelry, spices, textiles, lanterns, and traditional souvenirs, creating a lively atmosphere where history, culture, and commerce blend beneath glowing lamps and ancient archways.

At the end of the day, you will check into your hotel in Cairo for a relaxing overnight stay, reflecting on a city where countless civilizations have left their mark on one of the world’s most extraordinary cultural landscapes.

The Greek Orthodox Church of St. George is a heavenly 19th-century monument that houses one of Christianity’s most treasured artifacts, which is the famous 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land. This blessed sport is crafted from thousands of tiny tesserae and accompanied by early Greek inscriptions. This extraordinary mosaic is the oldest known map of Palestine, offering a fascinating glimpse into early Christian geography and devotion.

The revered Mount Nebo is the land of miracles and divine intervention, which is traditionally believed to be the place where Prophet Moses first saw the Promised Land. From its elevated viewpoint overlooking the Jordan Valley, visitors can admire sweeping panoramas stretching toward the Jordan River and the distant hills beyond. The peaceful setting and biblical associations make this site both inspiring and reflective.

The marvelous Dead Sea is a grand historical wonder that became one of the world’s most distinctive natural wonders. Located at the lowest point on Earth, its intensely salty waters and mineral-rich mud have been valued for centuries for their therapeutic qualities and were even used in ancient healing practices and Egyptian mummification. Floating effortlessly on its buoyant surface while surrounded by dramatic desert scenery offers a truly unique and relaxing experience.

Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor authentic Jordanian cuisine before continuing your adventure.

The ancient city of Petra is a vivid artistic marvel that was carved into rose-colored sandstone by the ingenious Nabataeans, whose civilization flourished more than two thousand years ago at the turn of the first century on an area of ~7,560 m². Once the prosperous capital of their kingdom, Petra is today recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Hidden among dramatic mountain gorges, its temples, tombs, and monumental façades reflect extraordinary craftsmanship, resilience, and architectural brilliance.

The magnificent Al Khazneh (The Treasury) is a majestic creation that can only be accessed through the famous Siq, a narrow, winding canyon bordered by towering rock walls that create a dramatic natural entrance to the city. Suddenly, it appears, revealing its intricate façade carved in the 1st century AD during the reign of King Aretas IV. Bathed in shifting desert light, this iconic monument showcases the artistic sophistication and wealth of Nabataean culture and gained worldwide recognition through films such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

The Royal Tombs of Petra are magnificant monuments that come in every shape and form that were carved high into Petra’s eastern cliffs for the Nabataean elite. The Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb each display distinctive architectural features and finely crafted details that reflect the prestige and refinement of Petra’s ancient society.

The remarkable Great Theatre of Petra is an impressive structure that radiates wonder and wisdom when it was carved directly into the rock during the early 1st century AD and later expanded during Roman rule. With seating for nearly 7,000 spectators, the theatre represents a striking fusion of Nabataean engineering and classical Roman design.

Qasr al-Bint is a miraculous structure, renowned for being one of Petra’s rare freestanding temples, built between 30 BC and 40 AD. Dedicated to Nabataean deities, this impressive structure has survived centuries of earthquakes and natural forces, reflecting both the religious devotion and advanced construction techniques of its builders.

After discovering the wonders of Petra, your journey continues toward the breathtaking desert landscape of Wadi Rum. Upon arrival, enjoy a memorable dinner beneath the vast desert sky, where traditional Bedouin cuisine is served in the peaceful silence of the desert.

Wadi Rum, a.k.a the Valley of the Moon is a golden land that reveals a vast panorama of crimson sand dunes, towering sandstone mountains, and ancient rock inscriptions dating back over 12,000 years. Spanning nearly 720 square kilometers and protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this extraordinary desert has inspired explorers and filmmakers alike, appearing in films such as Lawrence of Arabia and The Martian. Depending on time, you may explore the landscape by jeep, camel, or on foot, visiting remarkable sites including Lawrence Spring, Little Bridge, Khazali Canyon, and the dramatic Burdah Arch.

As evening falls, settle into a traditional Bedouin desert camp. Beneath a sky filled with brilliant stars and endless horizons, the quiet rhythm of the desert surrounds you, creating unforgettable memories of Petra’s timeless grandeur and Wadi Rum’s majestic wilderness.