Planning a 10-day itinerary in the Middle East allows you to experience a blend of ancient history, vibrant cultures, and modern marvels. Here’s a suggested itinerary covering some of the best things to do and see:
Day 1-2: Cairo, Egypt
- Day 1: Arrive in Cairo and visit the Giza Pyramidsand the Sphinx. Explore the Egyptian Museum to see treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb.
- Day 2: Visit the Saladin Citadeland the Muhammad Ali Mosque for panoramic views of Cairo. Explore the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar for shopping and local cuisine.
Day 3-4: Petra, Jordan
- Day 3: Fly to Amman and drive to Petra. Explore the ancient city of Petra, including the famous Treasury (Al-Khazneh), the Roman Theater, and the Royal Tombs.
- Day 4: Visit the lesser-known sites in Petra such as the Monastery (Ad Deir) and the High Place of Sacrifice. Optionally, hike the scenic trails around Petra.
Day 5-6: Dead Sea and Wadi Rum, Jordan
- Day 5: Drive to the Dead Seaand float in its buoyant waters. Relax at a resort and experience the therapeutic mud.
- Day 6: Head to Wadi Rumfor a jeep tour through the desert landscapes. Experience Bedouin hospitality with a traditional meal and stargazing.
Day 7-8: Jerusalem, Israel
- Day 7: Drive to Jerusalem. Visit the Old City, including the Western Wall (Wailing Wall), the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock.
- Day 8: Explore the Mount of Olivesfor panoramic views of Jerusalem. Visit Yad Vashem (Holocaust Memorial) and explore the modern city of Jerusalem.
Day 9-10: Dubai, UAE
- Day 9: Fly to Dubai. Visit the Burj Khalifafor stunning city views. Explore the Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain.
- Day 10: Experience a desert safari with dune bashing, camel riding, and a traditional Bedouin camp dinner. Optionally, visit the Palm Jumeirah and relax at a beach resort.
Additional Tips:
- Transportation: Plan flights and ground transportation in advance to optimize travel time.
- Culture and Etiquette: Respect local customs and dress codes, especially in conservative areas.
- Timing: Check visa requirements and plan visits to religious sites during appropriate times.
- Flexibility: Allow flexibility for unexpected discoveries and local recommendations.
This itinerary offers a diverse range of experiences from ancient wonders to modern marvels, providing a comprehensive glimpse into the cultural richness of the Middle East. Adjust based on personal interests and travel preferences to make the most of your 10-day journey.
