Middle East & Africa
Explore the ancient worlds of the Egyptians, Persians, and the Trojans, as well as the far-flung provinces of the Roman Empire and enigmatic civilisation of the Kushites in the cradle of civilisation that is the Middle East and North Africa. Walk in the footsteps of Greek heroes Achilles and Hector at Troy, the great Egyptian pharaoh Ramses II in Luxor, Darius in Persepolis and Alexander the Great in Siwa. Discover vast, unyielding deserts, towering minarets, underground cities, and marketplaces that have barely changed since before the common era. Mystery and adventure are what awaits in this part of the world with our selection of Middle East and Africa tours. So, what are you waiting for? (Queue Indiana Jones theme song)
Spice Odyssey
As you embark on a gastronomic journey through Morocco, let your taste buds unravel the mysteries of a cuisine steeped in history and tradition. From the aromatic blend of spices in the tagines to the flaky layers of the pastries, each dish whispers secrets of the land, the people, and their stories. Follow the tantalizing scents through bustling medinas and quiet alleyways, and discover the hidden gems that await you at every turn.
Long lunches and dinners await at some of Morocco’s most famed restaurants, as well as cooking classes to learn the basics of this unique and fragrant cuisine. Walk the streets on tasting tours of Marrakesh’s Jemaa el-Fnaa, the tightly packed medina of Fes and the more modern marketplace of enigmatic Casablanca. Enjoy tastings at Morocco’s surprising wineries and revel in the hospitality of its people over a glass of mint tea.
In addition to the culinary delights Morocco has to offer, explore some of its extensive Roman sites, including the last outpost of the empire at Sala’a Colonia and the intricate mosaics of Volubilis. Visit a donkey retirement village, explore the UNESCO listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou and spend a night among a thousand stars in a desert camp at Agafay.
In this culinary adventure, let the food be your guide, and the enigma of Morocco will unfold before you.
Morocco
Egypt
Invaders, Traders & Pyramid Builders
Thanks to special permission from the Egyptian government this tour enjoys unparalleled access to many archaeological sites all over Egypt. Visit an active archaeological dig, explore the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum* and stand in the Sphinx enclosure at Giza right between the paws of the ancient stone beast. Explore the opulent tomb of Nefertari, in the Valley of the Queens, and the immense tomb of Seti I, both recently the subject of years of ongoing renovations. Discover the extensive subterranean labyrinths of the Step-Pyramid of King Djoser and the Serapeum, the tomb of the Apis Bull at Saqqara and venture into the deserts of middle Egypt to explore the tombs of the Amarna period and Akhenaten’s lost city in the desert.
In addition to the unreal archaeological experiences on offer, journey into the Fayoum Oasis to discover the whale fossils in the desert, wander the streets of the village of Tunis; considered one of the most beautiful villages in Egypt and discover Egyptian cuisine and medieval architecture in old Islamic Cairo
Discover a deeper understanding of Egypt’s rich ancient past with a trip leader who is degree qualified in Ancient History, specialising in Egyptology along with a specialist Egyptologist guide. Completely immerse yourself in Egypt and it’s culture with unique and traditional accommodation on this one-of-a-kind archaeological adventure.
Lost Cities & Bedouin Tents
*** New departure coming soon ***
Discover a land brimming with archaeological treasures and lost cities on this epic adventure through the sandy, barren and beautiful landscapes of Jordan. Marvel at the vastness of the site of Jerash in the country’s north and safari into the east to explore Jordan’s remote desert castles. Spend a day tending a flock of sheep with a local shepherd and another floating in the Dead Sea, the lowest place on Earth. Go on Safari for Oryzx at Azraq, see the intriguing Madaba Map and view the expanse of Jordan from the top of Mt Nebo.
We feel no trip to Jordan would be complete without a trip to the ‘lost city of Petra’ and don’t worry we give you plenty of free time to explore the site on your own. So, don your Indiana Jones hat, jump on a horse and ride down through the Siq and explore for yourself – follow us! We know the way!
Accommodation on this trip is a real stand-out! Stay at some of Jordan’s best eco-lodges, a resort on the Dead Sea, cabins in Ajloun and traditional boutique family run establishments throughout.
Jordan
Lebanon
Phoenician Riches
Embark, in style, on an adventure to the crossroads of humanity, on this trip to discover wonders past and present in the land of Lebanon. Explore the trading centres of Byblos and Tyre, used by the mysterious Phoenician peoples to ship goods all over the ancient Mediterranean world. Wander through the streets of one of the most epic archaeological wonders ever discovered at the site of Baalbek and gaze in awe at the huge temples of Jupiter, king of the Gods, and Bacchus, god of wine. Take some time out for the finer things in life with visits with vineyards to taste some of Lebanon’s famous wine, eat in some of the countries best restaurants and even learn to cook a traditional Lebanese meal.
Walk among the Cedar trees in the Kadisha Valley, visit the beautiful Beiteddine Palace and learn all about Lebanese handicraft making at Bkerzay.
This trip is all of the adventure with none of the inconvenience! Stay in beautiful boutique and historic hotels throughout, experience a stay in a working monastery in the Kadisha Valley and relax in an eco-retreat near Shouf.
Legionnaires of Roman Africa
Nestled in North Africa, Algeria is a land steeped in mystery and ancient lore. From the towering sand dunes of the Sahara Desert to the verdant valleys of the Atlas Mountains, its landscapes are as diverse as they are captivating. The echoes of a rich and tumultuous history linger in its cities and countryside, inviting the adventurous to explore the secrets and stories woven into the fabric of this fascinating country. Yet, beneath the surface, a powerful and enigmatic force pulsates, waiting to be discovered by those daring enough to unravel its mysteries.
Adventure through the sands to the furthest reaches of the Roman Empire, wander the deserted ancient cities of Timgad, Djemila and Tipaza without so much as another soul to disturb your exploration of these amazing places.
Travel deep into Algeria’s desert to the mirage like oasis of Timimoun and experience a magical sunset over the Sahara. Walk the streets of the remote settlement of Ghardaia and admire it’s unique M’zab architecture, as well as explore Algeria’s Numidian history at the Royal Mausoleum of the Kings in Medracen.
Characterful local hotels and guesthouses abound on this Algeria tour and we have handpicked accommodation that reflects the atmosphere and vibe of each destination to enable you to experience each place from the moment you wake up.
Algeria
Sudan
Journey to the Confluence
***New departure coming soon***
Venture beyond Lake Nasser into the far reaches of Sudan on this pioneering journey into the forgotten kingdom of Nubia. Visit the deserted archaeological site of Meroë with its tepee shaped pyramids and discover the holy mountain of Gebel Barkal. Cross the Nile to marvel at the enigmatic Temple of Soleb, built by an Egyptian pharaoh for the people of Nubia to worship him as a god. Get to know the warm and friendly people of Sudan both by checking out village life in Wawa and in the chaotic metropolis of Khartoum at the confluence of the White Nile and the Blue Nile rivers.
Begin the journey in Aswan, Egypt by climbing aboard the Lake Nasser Ferry and stay in a range of unique accommodation from permanent tented camps at archaeological sites to homestays in small villages. Best of all, enjoy a land full of wonders and share it with no one except your fellow trip mates – cue the Indiana Jones theme song!
Persian Village Explorer
*** New departure coming soon***
Experience the warm hospitality of Iran, make new friends and experience the magic of Persia on a very local level. Starting out from Tehran, journey to some of Iran’s most unique and diverse villages, including the ‘Red Village’ of Abyaneh, Garmeh, a real-life desert oasis and Kharanaq with its vibrating minaret. Explore the Zoroastrian religion of Yazd with a visit to its fire temple and mysterious ‘Towers of Silence’, walk along the shores of the red Urmia Lake and spot local bird life on the lake of Naqadeh at sunset.
Spend the night with the nomads of Kahkaran, camp out in the desert near Garmeh, sleep in caves in Kandovan and stay in traditional family run homestays, hotels and eco-lodges in throughout. Eat like a local as you take a street food walk through Tehran, sample home cooked meals in small villages and try the amazing saffron ice cream of Isfahan – trust us you’ll be going back for more!
Iran
Iran
Western Village Explorer
*** New departure coming soon ***
Enter a cultural lost world on this expedition to discover Iran’s undisturbed and unique villages. Starting out from Isfahan, the ‘half of the world’, journey to the ‘Red Village’ of Abyaneh, a village nestled in the mountains and famed for its colourful appearance. Walk along the roof tops of the traditional terraced villages of Masuleh and Palangan. Take a boat ride along the Caspian Coast to see the colourful houses of Bandar Anzali, walk along the shores of the red Urmia Lake and spot local bird life on the lake of Naqadeh at sunset. Explore Mazichal the ‘village in the clouds’ frozen in time without electricity or modern conveniences and marvel how life here has not changed for centuries.
Stay in traditional family run homestays, hotels and eco-lodges in throughout for a local experience in Iran you will never forget. Sample home cooked meals in small villages and experience the warm hospitality of the Iranian people as well as take the opportunity to have dinner in a real Silk Road caravanserai in Isfahan.
- Please note the tour is the western section of our ‘Persian Village Explorer‘ tour.
Eastern Village Explorer
*** New departure coming soon ***
Experience a world of undisturbed culture with this trip to visit Iran’s villages each of which is more unique than the last. From Makhunik a village of ancient subterranean dwellings often called ‘Iran’s Liliput’ to the desert oasis of Garmeh, an expedition into undiscovered worlds awaits you. Meet the people of these villages lost in time and make local connections which will stay with you your entire life.
In addition to Iran’s villages, we will spend a night camping with the desert nomads of Kahkaran and also explore the hottest place on Earth the Lut Desert (although this trip is in April, so it won’t be too hot!)
Explore the Zoroastrian religion of Yazd with a visit to its fire temple and mysterious ‘Towers of Silence’ and complete your experience in beautiful Isfahan, the jewel of Iranian cities.
Stay in traditional family run homestays, hotels and eco-lodges in throughout. Eat like a local as you take a street food walk through Tehran, sample home cooked meals in small villages and eat food cooked over the campfire by nomad hosts.
- Please note this tour is the eastern section of our ‘Persian Village Explorer‘ tour.
Iran
Turkey
Riches of the Ottomans
*** New departure coming soon ***
Join our sultans caravan as we journey the along road less travelled in Eastern Turkey. Walk in the footsteps of the generals of Alexander the Great in in Antioch, visit the largest mosaic museum in the world and view stunning vistas of Mt. Ararat from the shores of Lake Van. Visit the enigmatic sites of Gobekli Tepe, a neolithic wonder of engineering, the beehive houses of Harran and the sunken city of Halfeti in the extreme southeast. Explore the caves and underground cities of Cappadocia and see a different side of this magical place in the old Greek village of Mustafapasa. Discover some of remote Turkey’s ancient past at the Roman castle of Zerzevan at which the mysterious religion of Mithraism was practiced.
Along the way stay in a beautiful cave hotel in Cappadocia, a traditional stone hotel in Gaziantep, a former mansion in Kars and in a museum hotel in Antakya. Eat in some of eastern Turkey’s best restaurants and take a tasting tour of the food capital of Turkey, Gaziantep.
A Sandpit Far, Far Away
*** New departure coming soon ***
Not so long ago in a sandpit, far, far away, in the heart of Tunisia, a group of travellers journeyed to the sites of epic battles and Jedi mind tricks and sought droids they were apparently not looking for….
It’s easy to see how the scenery in Tunisia was so stimulating to Hollywood in making the beloved films – the otherworldly landscapes, intriguing archaeological sites and curious desert dwellings found here are like nothing else on Earth and instantly transport you to another galaxy.
Discover the sites, sets and locations used in the epic movie franchise on this amazing adventure which will reveal a vivid world both real and fantastical. Journey beyond the screen and step into a land of arid landscapes, troglodyte castles and desert oases, and encounter scenes straight from the lives of great heroes – from the space port where the iconic pod races took place, to the legendary birthplace of Athena and the ruins of the great city of Carthage.
While this trip may be a pilgrimage to the iconic sites of the Star Wars universe, you’ll discover Tunisia a country more colourful and storied than even in George Lucas’s wildest imagination, and revel in the opportunity to bring your very own adventure to life.
Tunisia
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Frequently asked questions about the Middle East & North Africa
Do I need visas to visit the Middle East & North Africa?
Many countries in the Middle East and North Africa such as Morocco, Tunisia, Oman and Israel offer a visa on arrival for many nationalities.
Countries where you are likely to need a visa in advance are Iran, Algeria, Sudan, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey which offers an e-visa to many nationalities. Saudi Arabia also offers a tourist e-visa to many nationalities.
Egypt offers a visa on arrival for many nationalities, however the process is so convoluted we would recommend you get a visa from your local embassy prior to departure.
Please note if you are on an itinerary which includes Israel you should ask the officials not to stamp your passport. If there is any evidence you have been to Israel you will not be allowed into some countries in this region including (but not limited to) Sudan, Lebanon, Libya, Pakistan and Iran.
For all visas we recommend you approach your local consulate for requirements for your nationality.
Is tipping customary in the Middle East & North Africa?
It is not uncommon to feel somewhat harassed by local people asking for tips or ‘baksheesh’ especially in countries such as Egypt and Morocco. You should never feel pressured to give money to people if you don’t think a service has been rendered or the service has not been up to standard.
For services that are not included you should tip around 10% for good service. Sometimes a local person will provide a service (often with out being asked!) this could amount to carrying your luggage, pointing out an interesting feature in a temple or even something as simple as giving you directions if you are lost.
In countries in this regions, most notably Egypt and Morocco, a person who you may think is just being helpful or hospitable is doing so for ‘baksheesh’. It is important to note that you a well within your rights to refuse these services if you do not want to give baksheesh, but if you do allow someone to carry your bag in Egypt you should offer them some money. This would be a small amount and your trip leader will be able to guide you as to how much you should give.
Tips are included for providers whose services are included in your trip itinerary. If someone from an included service asks you for baksheesh you should direct them to the trip leader or local guide who will take care of this on the groups behalf.
How should I manage my money in the Middle East & North Africa?
For all countries in this region you should bring some US Dollars, Euros or Pound Stirling to change into local currency.
Credit Cards are widely accepted and ATM’s are also reliable – with the exception of Sudan, Iran and Algeria where ATM’s frequently only work with local cards.
Can I use my mobile phone in the Middle East & North Africa?
You should check with your local provider if coverage is provided in the countries on your itinerary prior to departure. Make sure you are also aware of their international roaming charges.
In places like Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Turkey, Oman, Tunisia and Israel local SIM cards are fairly easy to obtain, the easiest place is usually at the airport on arrival.
Getting a local SIM in places like Iran, Saudi Arabia, Sudan and Algeria can be quite difficult to achieve. You will have to go into a store, show your passport and visa and it is highly unlikely that anyone in the store will speak English. Activating SIM cards in these countries is also quite difficult if you can get through the debacle of purchasing one. Instructions are all in the local language, as is the voice on the end of the support line.
If you intend to use a local SIM card while on your trip, you should ensure that your phone is unlocked prior to departure.
What is internet access like in the Middle East & North Africa?
Places in North Africa & the Middle East with decent internet and WiFi services include Turkey, Oman, Israel, Saudi Arabia and Jordan.
Morocco, Tunisia and Sudan have patchy but somewhat reliable WiFi.
Algeria and surprisingly Egypt can say they have WiFi. That’s about it. In most places it’s hardly usable and especially in Egypt, which is probably the worst you will ever encounter.
What are the amenities like in the Middle East & North Africa?
Toilets – All hotels in the Middle East & North Africa have clean, upright western toilets. Public toilets you encounter will likely be of the eastern squat variety. Unscedualed toilet breaks and public toilets in remote areas will be of the squat variety or at worst a hole in the ground and will likely be quite dirty.
Pharmacies – Pharmacies are readily available in major cities and large towns, although it is unlikely that the pharmacist will speak English. If you require medication from a pharmacy, please let your tour leader know as far in advance as possible. They will be able to arrange your local guide to go with you to collect what you need, or the local guide may be able to pick up what you require on your behalf.
Hospitals – Hospitals in large cities are generally of a good standard. We ask that if you are feeling unwell that you let your tour leader know as soon as possible and consider their advice when it comes to hospital admission. Tour Leaders have the discretion to remove someone from the trip if they feel that continuing would endanger their health.
Please ensure you purchase adequate travel insurance that includes repatriation to your home country in the event of a medical emergency.
Can I bring my medication into the Middle East & North Africa?
For all medication please carry a note from your GP detailing what medication you are on and why you are taking it to show to officials should you be asked.
Can I drink the water in the Middle East & North Africa?
Absolutely not. Please do not even brush your teeth with the water. Most hotels provide complimentary bottled water for this purpose.
Drinking the water is likely to result in hospitalisation.
In Turkey the water is clean, however, different chemicals are used during the purification process so it could still cause a mild stomach upset. We would still recommend drinking bottled water in this instance.
What is the food like in the Middle East & North Africa?
Middle Eastern and North African food consists of a lot of grilled meats and vegetables.
Rice and cous cous are also common.
People from these cultures tend to eat large meals. It is not uncommon for a meal ordered in a restaurant to automatically come with soup and salad – which are both a sizeable meal on their own.
Can my dietary requirements be accommodated in the Middle East & North Africa?
In most places dietary requirements can be accommodated as long as these are disclosed at the time of booking.
Your trip leader may not be able to accommodate any dietary requirements that have not been disclosed in advance.
We will do our best to accommodate dietary requirements in Sudan and Algeria, although we cannot guarantee restaurants here will be able to provide a variety of meals for vegetarian, vegan or gluten free diets. We would recommend you bring some snack food from home if possible if you are planning to undertake a trip to either of these countries.
Is there a dress code in the Middle East & North Africa I should be aware of?
Most countries in the Middle East & North Africa are Islamic countries and as such quite conservative. While not forbidden in most countries, women should consider whether short shorts or mid drift tops are culturally sensitive. If visiting a mosque women will be required to cover their hair and in many instances wear a long skirt and cover their arms. Men may be required to wear long trousers. Your trip leader will let you know when these items will be required, however please ensure you bring these with you on your trip.
In Iran and Sudan women must wear a head scarf, cover their arms and wear either a long dress (floor length) or loose fitting trousers with a long sleeve khaftan of at least mid thigh length. This is the law in Iran and Sudan. If you arrive with out these items you will not be permitted to join the trip and you could be arrested. Men must wear long trousers.
The situation in Saudi Arabia is fairly similar to Iran and Sudan, however some cities may be slightly more relaxed. Please come prepared to dress conservatively (as above) your trip leader will let you know of any places where the dress code may be less restrictive.