From Eilat: 3-Day Petra & Cairo Guided Trip with Hotel Stay

Travelers seeking a quick yet immersive adventure through two of the most legendary destinations in the Middle East will find this 3-day guided tour from Eilat to Petra and Cairo an intriguing option. With a price tag of $691 per person, it promises a comprehensive experience—covering the Rose City of Petra, the Great Pyramids, and other historical treasures—wrapped into a tightly packed itinerary.

What we love about this tour is its ability to combine stunning archaeological sites with expert guides who can bring the history vividly to life. The fact that it includes hotel accommodation and some meals adds a layer of convenience that many travelers appreciate.

On the other hand, the long travel days—notably the overnight drive—might be a downside for some. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this tour might feel a bit rushed, especially with the focus on covering so much ground in such a short time.

This experience is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who want a highlight-reel of Egypt and Jordan without spending weeks on the road. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to see iconic sites like Petra and the Pyramids but don’t have the luxury of extended travel time or prefer a guided group to streamline logistics.

Key Points

• Highlights include Petra’s Treasury and Amphitheater, the Pyramids and Sphinx in Cairo, and Saqqara’s ancient necropolis.
• The tour offers expert English-speaking guides to bring history alive.
• Transport is covered via minibus and private vehicles, ensuring smooth transitions between sights.
• The tour’s price includes one overnight hotel stay and three meals, adding convenience and value.
• Border fees and visas are not included, so travelers should budget an extra $130 for border fees and $135 for visas.
• The itinerary involves significant travel time, including a 10-hour overnight drive, which can be tiring but also adds to the adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Eilat to Petra and the Long Night Drive

Starting at 8:30 AM, you’ll be picked up from your Eilat hotel or any location you specify. The journey begins with a border crossing at Arava, where you’ll meet your Jordanian guide. The drive to Petra takes approximately 2 hours, with the scenic desert landscapes setting the tone for this adventure.

Arriving at Petra, you’ll spend a few hours exploring the famous Treasury, the Amphitheater, and other key sites with your guide. These ruins, carved out of vibrant rose-colored rock, are as breathtaking in person as they are in pictures. Your guide’s insights transform the visit from a simple walk into a narrative about the Nabataean civilization that once thrived here.

After a local lunch, you’ll head back towards Israel, then commence a 10-hour overnight drive to Cairo, with a short border crossing at the Egyptian side. While not the most comfortable way to travel, this method maximizes your sightseeing time in the short span of three days.

Day 2: Cairo’s Wonders

Arriving early in Cairo, you’ll be met and immediately taken to see the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx. These monuments are arguably the most recognizable symbols of ancient Egypt. Expect to see the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the smaller Pyramid of Menkaure, along with the iconic Sphinx guarding the plateau. Your guide will share stories that bring these monuments to life, helping you understand their construction and purpose.

Afterward, the tour includes a visit to Old Cairo, where you’ll explore markets, the Alabaster Mosque, and the Egyptian Museum. Lunch at a local restaurant offers a chance to sample Egyptian cuisine, giving a taste of the local flavors.

Your hotel stay is at a 4-star hotel, offering comfort after a long travel day. Dinner and rest here prepare you for the next day’s adventures.

Day 3: Ancient Cairo and the Necropolis

Post-breakfast, you’ll journey to Saqqara and Memphis. Saqqara, about 27 km southwest of Cairo, is home to the famed Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt, and numerous tombs and temples. Memphis, once Egypt’s capital, is an open-air museum with colossal statues and relics.

After lunch, the tour continues to Old Cairo. Here, you’ll visit St. Sergius Church, believed to be over 1,500 years old and associated with the Holy Family’s stay. The Citadel of Saladin, built in 1183, dominates the skyline, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into medieval military architecture. The Mohammed Ali Mosque, also called the Alabaster Mosque, is a striking example of Ottoman architecture and a highlight for many visitors.

Finally, you’ll transfer to the Taba Border, concluding your whirlwind journey.

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The Practicalities: What to Expect

Transportation plays a significant role in this tour’s value. The use of minibuses in Petra and private vehicles in Cairo ensures flexibility and comfort, especially given the long driving hours involved. The guide’s presence enriches your experience, providing context, answering questions, and helping you navigate the border crossings—an often stressful part of such trips.

Border crossing fees and visas are not included but are straightforward to handle. You should expect to pay $130 per person for border fees and $135 per person for visas, paid directly at the border. Travellers should prepare their passport details in advance and check visa requirements based on nationality, as some may need to arrange visas beforehand.

Meals are included for lunch and dinner in Cairo, but not in Petra or during the long drive. Pack some snacks and water for the road, especially during the overnight stretch.

Accommodation

Staying overnight in a 4-star hotel provides a comfortable break from the hectic schedule. Reviewers have appreciated the quality of the hotel, describing it as well-appointed and a good place to rest after busy days.

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Petra and Cairo’s archaeological sites. Remember to bring passport, water, cash, and appropriate clothes for the weather. Since some sites involve walking over uneven terrain, avoid overly tight or restrictive clothing.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Many travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides for their ability to make history engaging. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide in Petra brought the site alive with stories I couldn’t find in books.” Others have appreciated the stunning views—from the desert landscapes en route to Petra to the panoramic vistas from Cairo’s Citadel.

Some note that the long travel days can be tiring, especially the overnight drive, but agree that it’s a small price to pay for such a concentrated itinerary. The inclusion of hotel stays and some meals adds value, reducing logistical stress and making it easier to focus on the sights.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 3-day adventure offers a concentrated dose of history, architecture, and culture from Egypt and Jordan. It’s perfect for adventure-seeking travelers who don’t mind a packed schedule and long journeys for the chance to see iconic sites in a short amount of time. If you enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable storytellers and want to avoid the hassle of organizing border crossings, this trip provides excellent value.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility concerns, you might find the long drives and packed days a challenge. Also, expect to pay extra for border and visa fees, so budget accordingly.

This tour delivers a memorable, action-packed experience that covers essential highlights while providing enough comfort and guidance to make it accessible for most travelers. Expect stunning views, fascinating stories, and the thrill of visiting some of the world’s most famous archaeological sites—all in just three days.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility limitations?
No, the tour involves a good amount of walking over uneven terrain and long travel days, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Are meals included during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes three lunches and one dinner in Cairo. Meals in Petra or during the long drive are not included, so plan to bring snacks and water.

What are the border fees and visa costs?
Border fees are $130 per person and visas are $135 per person, payable directly at the border. It’s best to check your nationality’s specific visa requirements beforehand.

How long is the drive from Eilat to Petra and Cairo?
The drive from Eilat to Petra takes about 2 hours. The overnight drive to Cairo lasts approximately 10 hours, with a border crossing along the way.

What kind of guides will I have?
You’ll have English-speaking guides in Petra, Cairo, and Saqqara, who are praised for their knowledge and storytelling ability.

Is the hotel accommodation comfortable?
Yes, the hotel in Cairo is rated 4-star and offers a good level of comfort after busy touring days, according to traveler reviews.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, the booking provider allows you to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility. Just be aware of the cancellation policy if your plans change.

This tour packs a lot into three days, blending history, culture, and adventure in a way that’s accessible for most eager explorers. If you’re looking to tick off some of the Middle East’s greatest sights without stretching your trip into weeks, this guided journey could be just what you need.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby