Are you a history lover? Do you wish to spend your next vacation in a country full of history, culture, and tradition? This Middle East travel Guide is your sign. Stay until the end to know everything about Egypt, Jordan, and Israel. From their top destinations to outdoor activities, and practical travel tips for a smooth and interesting trip.

 

The Ultimate Egypt Travel Guide: Explore Ancient Wonders and Modern Marvels

Egypt is a fascinating travel destination that combines ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the famous Pyramids and the Sphinx, the Valley of Kings, and the river Nile, icons of Egypt’s rich past. This guide, Middle East guide has everything you need to know before traveling to Egypt.

 

Top Destinations to Visit

Cairo: The Heart of Egypt

Two words can describe Egyptian: chaotic and captivating. Cairo is one of the largest cities in Africa and the Middle East. This city is a paradise for history and lovers. There are some places you must include in your itinerary such as the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, the Pyramids of Giza, and the Nile River.

 

Giza: Home of the Great Pyramids

Giza has many monuments and historical landmarks you must see in your Middle East travel. There is the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Also, the Great Pyramid of Cheops and the Great Sphinx are historic sites ideal for photography and enriched with historical narratives.

 

Luxor: The World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum

Luxor has a rich cache of historical treasures like few other places. There are some interesting attractions you must see in Luxor such as the Valley of the Kings, The Temple of Karnak, the Tomb of King Tutankhamun, and more.

 

Aswan: The Gateway to Nubia

Aswan is one of the best places in Egypt to enjoy the Nile. The best way to see Aswan’s sights is by felucca (a traditional wooden sailboat). Enjoy the sail around the Nile islands, and some of the hidden gems such as the Tombs of the Nobles and the mural-covered Nubian village of Gharb Soheil.

 

Alexandria: The Pearl of the Mediterranean

Alexandria was one of the great intellectual cities of antiquity. Beyond the Bibliotheca Alexandria, there are other places to visit such as the Roman Amphitheater, the Citadel of Qaitbay, the Montazah Palace Gardens, the Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi, and many other stops.

 

Practical Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit Egypt

The best time to visit Egypt is during winter from October to April, when temperatures are lower. The most popular time for tourists is December and January. Tourism in Egypt is booming this time of the year, so make sure you plan. March, April, and September are good months to travel to Egypt if you plan to avoid the crowd. The daytime weather can be quite pleasant, and it's the best time to enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming.

Safety Tips for Tourists

• Stay hydrated: The temperature in Egypt is usually high around 33-21 degrees in winter and exceptionally hot in summer. So, carry sunscreen, sunglasses, shades, and water bottles.
• Respect the code of dress: Dress conservatively, especially at religious sites. For women, consider clothing that covers knees and shoulders for day-to-day travel, but when visiting religious sites, ensure that your clothing covers elbow to ankle. It's also important to cover your hair with a scarf
• Don’t travel alone: Travel in small groups and avoid walking alone, especially at night.
• Secure your valuables: Leave your valuables at home or securely locked in your hotel safe and only bring the amount of cash you will need for the day.

Understand Egyptian Culture and Etiquette

People are expected to show gratitude when offered a compliment. This is done by responding with an equally respectful compliment on the same subject or, if they are Muslim, wishing Allah’s (God’s) blessings. When visiting a mosque or someone’s home, one is required to remove their shoes before entering. If invited to an Egyptian’s home, offering good quality chocolates or sweets to the hostess as a token of gratitude is appreciated.

Discover more about the Egyptian etiquette here.

 

Stay Connected in Egypt with Yoho Mobile

Stay connected on your trip is an advantage because you'll be able to download maps, search information online about any destination, and share the pictures you take on social media. Yoho Mobile allows you to download this and more, with a wide variety of data packages and a wide coverage around the country, you'll be able to stay connected at any time and place.

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Authentic Egyptian Cuisine: What to Try and Where

Egypt is a Paradise to all food travelers thanks to the particular Mediterranean flavors and arabic influence. There are some plates you should try such as:

• Kofta: One of the most popular meat dishes with affordable price. It's made of ground lamb mixed with different spices, which is then formed into balls put onto skewers and grilled. The final result is delicious.
• Mulukhiyah: The soup is a very traditional dish that is made at home from the leaves of the mulukhiyah plant as well as chard, meat, onion, garlic, coriander, cardamom, and sometimes lemon. It is usually served with white rice and roast chicken.
• Ful Medames: considered the national dish, Ful Medames is a must-try on a trip to Egypt. Although it is usually eaten for breakfast, it is just as satiating at any time. Fava beans, which are cooked with sautéed garlic, are its main ingredient, as well as featuring chopped onion, olive oil, cumin, parsley, and lemon. It is eaten with pitta bread.
• Baklava: we have made sure to leave the dessert for last: a delicious puff pastry filled with nuts (usually pistachios, walnuts, and almonds). Those with a sweet tooth will not be able to resist it, because the dough is also coasted in syrup or honey.

Some plates you can try these plates are Al Khal Egyptian, Horus Restaurant located at the Barceló Cairo Pyramids, and Felfele Restaurant. In all these places you'll enjoy well-presented Egyptian recipes and interesting traditional decorations.

 

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Egypt promises an unforgettable experience for their visitants. Its weather and diverse landscapes make it a prime destination for enjoying outdoor exercise, adrenaline-pumping sports, and a variety of leisure activities!

Desert Safaris and Camping

Experience the Egyptian Desert allows participants to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of the vast oil shale landscape. The White Desert and Black Desert are popular destinations for camping in Egypt. Camping in the desert allows you to experience the unique landscapes and natural beauty of Egypt’s Western Desert. These experiences are a great way to explore the area and learn more about its rich history and culture. And for adventure travelers, can take advantage of the Outdoor Activities and try sandboarding and Dune bashing.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in the Red Sea

Diving in the Red Sea is a must-do outdoor activity in your Middle East travel through Egypt. The Red Sea offers scuba diving vacations in Egypt and is renowned for its stunning reefs, intriguing wrecks, and remarkably diverse marine life. One of the Middle East travel guide recommendations is to visit the Red Sea. It offers some of the world's most beautiful coral reefs, plentiful marine life, and diverse dive sites. Catering to beginners and advanced divers, the dive sites offer easy access to deep waters, making it an ideal destination for those aspiring to become dive professionals and refine their technical diving skills.

Hiking in the Sinai Peninsula

One of the best places to hike in Egypt during your Middle East travel is the Sinai Peninsula offers an unforgettable adventure through a landscape of rugged mountains, dramatic canyons, and ancient desert paths. This region is rich in natural beauty and cultural history, with trails leading to breathtaking vistas, such as the majestic Mount Sinai. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a casual adventurer, the Sinai Peninsula provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and history in one of the most scenic and spiritual places on Earth.

 

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Jordan: From Ancient Wonders to Modern Delights

Jordan would be a dream travel destination for many travelers. This destination gets travelers close to world wonders such as the Ancient city of Petra, the Dead Sea, the bustling city of Amman, and the Wadi Rum’s desert landscape. Plan your vacations to the Middle East and see the best places to visit and the best outdoor activities in Jordan with the Middle East travel guide.

Image by wirestock on Freepik
 

Top Destinations in Jordan

Discover the Ancient City of Petra

Petra is one of the new 7-Wonders of the New World. This city promises to impress tourists from the first moment they see it. Immediately after the entrance, you’ll see the mysterious Djinn Blocks followed by the Obelisk Tomb. You can also explore the Street of Facades, the High Place of Sacrifice, the Theater, and the impressive Colonnaded Street.

 

Wander the Bustling Streets of Amman

Amman is well worth getting to know. More than just a gateway to the country, it’s Jordan’s heartbeat, pulsing with the energy of the old and new, and millennia of history and culture. There are some places you must visit in Amman such as the Citadel, the Roman Theater, and the Jordan Museum.

 

Float in the Mystical Waters of the Dead Sea

Floating in the Dead Sea is a must-do thing to do in Jordan. The Dead Sea is renowned for its mineral-rich water. Wellness devotees believe that water has healing properties for the skin. Don't plan to swim laps, though – the Dead Sea is so dense and salient that all you can do is float atop the surface.

 

Adventure in the Wadi Rum Desert

The Wadi Rum Desert is one of the most spectacular landscapes across the globe. Also known as the Valley of the Moon, this sandstone and granite rock valley is an otherworldly experience, with towering cliffs, massive dunes, swirling archways, and caverns. At the Wadi Rum Desert, you can ride camels, spirited Arabian horses, rock climbing, or hike through canyons.

 

Cultural and Historical Insights

Jordan's rich history takes you back in time. From Petra to Jerash, every corner of Jordan tells a story. The desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and the biblical sites along the Jordan River make Jordan's heritage richer. Jordan's history is influenced by many civilizations, including the Nabataeans, Romans, and Ottomans. Each site and story shows how strong and culturally rich this Middle Eastern country is.

Traditional Jordanian Customs and Etiquette

• Guests are honored: Hospitality is central to Jordanian culture. Visitors are often welcomed with coffee or tea and are treated with great respect.
• Right hand only: The right hand is used for shaking hands, eating, and passing items, as the left hand is considered less clean Dress code: Men typically wear long pants and shirts, while women often cover their arms, legs, and hair, especially in rural areas or conservative communities.
• Social interactions: Public displays of affection between persons are uncommon, and conservative behavior is expected in public spaces.

Discover more about the culture and etiquette in Jordan

 

Must-Visit Historical Sites

The friendly Middle Eastern country is brimming with sacred sites and breathtaking and mysterious relics of the past, the Middle East travel guide recommends visiting some places such as:

• Jerash: The ancient city of Jerash houses some of the best-preserved Roman architecture in the world. It’s located 48 kilometers from the capital Amman.
• Mount Nebo: It’s 10 kilometers northwest of Mabada and is an important place of worship. Christian tradition says Moses was buried on the mountain. The top of Mount Nebo has a great view of the Holy Land and the River Jordan valley.
• Madaba: It’s home to a famous 6th-century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land. The map has two million colored stones and shows hills, valleys, villages, and towns as far as the Nile Delta.

Outdoor Activities and Adventures

Hiking Trails and Nature Reserves

Jordan has beautiful landscapes, villages, and local communities. You can experience them through hiking trails. Jordan offers trekking for all fitness levels and backgrounds. The Dana is waiting for adventure lovers. On the hike, you can meet local Dana residents and learn about the area's history. You can also hike in Wadi Mujib, an amazing canyon with great views and lots of plants and birds.

Scuba Diving in Aqaba’s Coral Reefs

Aqaba is named for its preserved coral reefs and unique sea life. Aqaba's Red Sea is one of the most attractive and rich areas of the world for scuba diving. During this experience, you’ll see corals, wrecks, and diverse marine life like whale sharks, dolphins, turtles, lionfish, and more.

Jeep Tours and Camping in Wadi Rum

Jepps Tours allows you to visit the most sites in the least amount of time as well as reach some of the far-away attractions of Wadi Rum and beyond. You can visit scenic canyons, soaring Jabal, rock arches, dunes, Nabatean sites, and a more memorable experience in the desert such as visiting traditional Bedouin families.

 

Travel Tips for Jordan

Essential Packing List for Jordan

When packing for a trip to Jordan, it's important to consider the diverse climates, cultural norms, and activities you may encounter. Middle East travel guide made you an essential packing list to help you prepare:

• Modest attire: Lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is ideal, especially for visiting religious sites or rural areas.
• Scarf or shawl: Useful for women to cover their hair when visiting mosques and for protection against the sun and dust.
• Comfortable walking shoes: Essential for exploring sites like Petra and Wadi Rum.
• First aid kit: Including band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any prescription medications. Universal travel adapter: Jordan uses 230V power with Type C, D, F, G, and J plugs.
• Gifts: Small items like postcards, keychains, or candies from your home country can be nice to offer to hosts or locals you meet.
• eSIM: Make sure you can access to internet at any place in Jordan. With an eSIM, you can avoid roaming fees and the hassle of looking for a reliable SIM card. Yoho Mobile has one of the best eSIM prices and data packages.

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Best Time to Visit Jordan

The Middle East travel guide recommends the best time to visit Jordan is spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). The weather is more temperate, so you can explore iconic sites like Petra or the Wadi Rum without getting scorched by the sun.

Currency, Safety, and Local Customs

When traveling to Jordan, understanding the local currency, safety guidelines, and customs is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s what you need to know:

• Jordanian Dinar (JOD): The official currency of Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar, often abbreviated as JOD or referred to as "JD." It is divided into 1,000 fils.
• Credit cards: Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it’s wise to carry cash for smaller establishments or markets.
• Safety: Jordan is a safe country with a stable government and a strong police force. Pickpocketing is rare but can happen in crowded areas, so watch your belongings.
• Emergency numbers: The general emergency number in Jordan is 911, which covers police, ambulance, and fire services.

Navigating Jordan: Transportation Tips

Jordan is easy to get around. There are many ways to travel. Take a JETT bus for a comfortable ride between Amman, Petra, and Aqaba. Local buses and minibusses are cheaper but less reliable. You can find taxis everywhere, with yellow ones in cities using meters. Renting a car is great for exploring, but driving in Amman can be hectic. You can walk or cycle in the capital or along the Dead Sea coast.

Must-Try Jordanian Dishes

From savories to sweets, there’s something on Jordan’s menu to appeal to every palate. These are the Middle East travel guide recommendations:

• Mansaf: Jordan’s national dish. This platter of lamb, rice, and fermented yogurt (jameed) can unsurprisingly be found throughout the kingdom. Toppings typically include almonds, toasted pine nuts, parsley, slices of lemon, and a generous glug of olive oil.
• Ka’ak: The Middle East is great for bread lovers, and Jordan is no exception. Try ka'ak if you want something more peculiar than a pita. Ka'ak is a Jordanian bread that means 'cake'. It is a sesame bread filled with egg, cheese, and chili.
• Makmoura: It is a dish that takes time. It is made with layers of dough, lamb or chicken, onions, and spices. This dish comes from the north of the country and uses local olive oil. It takes four hours to cook and is served with rice and cabbage.

 

Ultimate Guide to Exploring Israel: Top Attractions, Hidden Gems, and Travel Tips

Israel, a land of ancient history and vibrant culture, offers tourists a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Discover Jerusalem’s sacred sites, the city of Tel Aviv, the natural beauty of the Dead Sea, and the serene landscapes of the Galilee. Enjoy Israel’s diverse cuisine, rich heritage, and welcoming people.

 

Must-See Historical Sites in Israel

Jerusalem’s Old City

Jerusalem is the holiest land in the world and one of the best places to visit in Israel. Visit Yad Vashem, a memorial for victims of the Holocaust. Walk across the Via Dolorosa, where Jesus walked to his crucifixion. See the Golden Dome Mosque, the city's most prominent structure, which overlooks the Western Wall.

 

Bethlehem

The birthplace of Jesus is certainly one of the best places to visit in Israel. For great views, go to Herodium Hill, 10 km from Jerusalem. See the Dead Sea to the east. The Mount of Olives is to the north of the Herodium. The village of Artas is home to the Hortus Conclusus nunnery.

Masada Fortress

Masada is a mountaintop fortress overlooking the Dead Sea region. It offers incredible views and a fascinating history. This is where King Herod's palace stood and where the Zealots made their last stand against the Romans. The Snake Path is the best way for hikers to reach the top. Otherwise, take the cable car.

 

Natural Wonders You Can't-Miss

Don't forget these natural wonder in your Middle East travel.

Dead Sea: Experience the lowest point on earth

Not only the lowest spot on earth but also the saltiest and most mineral-laden body of water in the world, the Dead Sea, which joins Israel and Jordan, is legendary as a source of healing and has become a popular center for health, rehabilitation, and beauty treatments.

 

Ein Gedi Nature Reserve: A lush oasis in the desert

En Gedi is a living testament to nature's resilience and beauty in an arid landscape. This oasis has been a source of life, stories, and inspiration for centuries. Its location between the desert and the Dead Sea has made it a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. As you walk along its paths, you can hear the voices of ancient shepherds, prophets, and nomads.

Rosh Hanikra: Marvel at the stunning grottoes

This natural wonder along the Mediterranean coast has striking cliffs, turquoise waters, and sea caves. Rosh Hanikra means "Head of the Grottoes" in Hebrew. It is a place with sea caves carved by the Mediterranean Sea over many years. As we approach, the sea is blue and the cliffs are white. Rosh Hanikra is a great place to see nature and history together.

 

Vibrant Cities to Visit

These are the most vibrant cities you can visit in your Middle East travel.

Tel Aviv: The city that never sleeps

Tel Aviv is a young, diverse city founded in 1909. Artists, musicians, and young professionals are attracted to Tel Aviv by its clubs, bars, art, gay scene, and beaches. Shop at Carmel Market, visit Sharona, watch the sunset, and dance in Tel Aviv! The city has great beaches, including Gordon, Frishman, and Banana. Tel Aviv has lots of water activities and marine parks.

 

Haifa: Home to the beautiful Bahai Gardens

It is a beautiful port city with cliffs great art museums, holy shrines, beautiful gardens, and fantastic views. If you want to enjoy Haifa, visit the Baha'i Gardens. These magnificent gardens have 19 terraces and the gold-domed Shrine of the Bab, which contains the tomb of Siyyad Ali Muhammed.

 

Eilat: Gateway to the Red Sea

Eilat is Israel's holiday capital. It offers a beautiful bay and a mountainous desert landscape. It also has lots of shops, restaurants, hotels, clubs and bars. Eilat is a popular tourist destination in Israel thanks to its marine life, beaches, and wildlife. Try watersports like snorkeling and scuba diving in the Red Sea.

 

Practical Travel Information

Entry Requirements: What you need to know before you go

Before traveling to Israel, check the visa requirements for your country. Many tourists can enter Israel for up to 90 days without a visa, but it's always good to confirm the rules beforehand. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date. Upon arrival, you might receive an entry card instead of a stamp, which you should keep until you leave.

Transportation Tips: Getting around Israel

Israel has an efficient public transportation system buses, trains, and shared taxis called "sheruts." The train is a great option for traveling between major cities, while buses cover a wide range of routes, including more remote areas. Renting a car is also popular for those who prefer the flexibility to explore at their own pace. For city travel, apps like Moovit can help you navigate the public transport system with ease.

Safety and security during your visit

Israel is generally a safe country for tourists, but it's always wise to stay informed about the current situation. Keep an eye on local news and follow the guidance of local authorities. In busy areas, be mindful of your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended. If you're traveling to border areas or places of historical conflict, check with local officials for any travel advisories or restrictions

Traditional Dishes: From hummus to shawarma

Israel has the best street food in the world. In a region known for great street food, you'll find national favorites like hummus, falafel, shawarma, and shakshuka. Keep reading the Middle East travel guide to find out what the best Israeli dishes are.

• Hummus: It’s one of the cheapest and best foods in Israel. It is served hot with chickpeas, olive oil, and paprika. You can eat it with a fork or scoop it out with pita bread.
• Shawarma: Israel has lots of shawarma stands on every street. Meat is stacked onto a skewer and cooked slowly. Servings are shaved off and served in a pita or laffa bread.
• Falafel: It is made from chickpeas that are fried into balls. A falafel sandwich with salad, hummus, tahini, pickles, and amba sauce is a great lunch.
• Shakshuka: It is a breakfast dish from Israel. It is made with poached eggs in a pan of tomato, chili, and garlic sauce. It is served with an Israeli salad, tahini, and bread. You can taste this dish at any breakfast restaurant in the country.

 

Unique Experiences

These are some of the unique experiences recommended in this Middle East travel guide

Underground Jerusalem

Jerusalem has more than a mile of pathways where some of the most exciting archaeological finds of the ancient world have been uncovered. The underground city is open to visitors. They can use the same tunnels that residents used 2,000 years ago. The most notable tunnel is Hezekiah's Tunnel. He built tunnels to bring water to the city.

Camping at the Sea of Galilee

Camping around the Sea of Galilee is a dream for anyone who loves the outdoors. The Sea of Galilee offers a unique camping experience, with beaches named after it. You can enjoy nature while still having all the comforts of home.

Safari Park Ramat Gan

The Ramat Gan Safari Park tour is a great way to see the diverse and amazing world of the wild African savannah in Israel. It is a world-famous center for breeding rare and endangered animals. The Safari Park in Ramat Gan has over 1,500 animals from all over the world! The most popular activity is a car trip through the park where you can see wild predators and herbivores together.

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