Download - Audley Travel

N ORTH 

A FRICA & 

THE M IDDLE E AST 

EGYPT 

JORDAN 

SYRIA 

LEBANON 

MOROCCO 

TUNISIA 

LIBYA 

IRAN 

OMAN 

TAILOR- MADE J OURNEYS FOR THE D ISCERNING T RAVELLER

Dear Traveller 

Nowhere in the world is as full of history 

as the countries of North Africa and the 

Middle East, and with political change 

sweeping the region, history continues to 

be made. 

Many ancient civilisations have held sway 

in this region: Sumerians, Phoenicians, 

Egyptians, Romans and Greeks all left their 

mark on the landscape, long before the Arab 

Conquest and the battles of the Crusades. 

Although the sites of antiquity are the 

main draw, there are also plenty of other 

experiences to enthral the traveller – 

traditional cultures existing in a modern 

world, bustling bazaars, sophisticated 

cuisines, fascinating national parks and 

inspirational desert and mountain scenery. 

All of our North Africa and Middle East 

specialists have travelled extensively 

through the region and many have lived 

there and studied the Arabic language. 

Not only are they passionate about this 

part of the world, they also know the 

practicalities of travelling here, and have 

daily contact with our partners on the 

ground to keep up to date with the very 

latest developments in each of the countries 

we cover. If you have tentative plans and 

would like an informal chat, or have more 

concrete ideas and want to start planning 

in earnest, please feel free to call them. 

Whether you are travelling here for the 

first time, or returning to explore in more 

depth, I hope our passion is infectious and 

inspires you to visit this historic and 

fascinating corner of the world. 

Craig Burkinshaw 

Managing Director

Introducing Audley 

After developing a real passion for travel in the early 1990s, Craig Burkinshaw founded 

Audley, or Asian Journeys as we were then called. Craig wanted to make it possible for 

others to share the same experiences and, from these small beginnings, the company was born. 

Audley offered a new type of travel – individual journeys, designed to match the traveller’s 

interests, tastes and budget, created with an absolute commitment to quality, authenticity 

and a passion for travel. Today Audley is one of the UK’s most highly regarded specialist 

tour operators, providing tailor-made trips throughout Asia, Africa, the Middle East, 

Latin America, Australasia, Antarctica and the Arctic, Canada and Alaska. 

Tailor-made journeys 

The beauty of tailor-made travel is that every trip 

is unique. Whether you want to stay in simple or 

luxurious accommodation, have great guides on 

hand or explore under your own steam, travel for 

one week or five, we can create a trip to match 

your tastes and budget. We can also design trips 

for a special occasion, where added touches can 

change an adventurous journey into a spectacular 

honeymoon, anniversary or birthday celebration. 

Your trip can be tailored to suit your particular 

interests, such as wildlife, photography or diving, 

and we have the specialist knowledge to match. 

Throughout the brochure you will find suggested 

itineraries and some of our favourite places to 

stay. These are included purely to offer inspiration 

and give you a flavour of what is possible, as each 

journey is created individually to give you the 

opportunity to experience a destination in exactly 

the way you choose. 

Planning your trip 

Once you have some ideas for your trip, or if 

you just want some general guidance, call one of 

our North Africa and Middle East specialists on 

01993 838 400. They can offer advice and discuss 

your plans with you before creating a detailed 

itinerary, which will be forwarded to you together 

with maps, accommodation information, colour 

photographs and a price. Your specialist can then 

continue to refine the plans until you are 

completely satisfied. They will be on hand from 

the start of the planning process until your return 

and are always available to answer questions and 

offer sound advice. 

Specialist knowledge 

Our North Africa and Middle East specialists have 

all travelled extensively throughout the region and 

in many cases lived there, so you can rely on their 

extensive, first-hand knowledge. They regularly 

return to see the accommodation, meet our 

guides – many of whom are firm friends – 

experience all the excursions and activities, and 

keep up-to-date with local developments. They 

pride themselves on having an honest ‘tell it how 

it is’ approach to planning your trip and, as well 

as their own comprehensive knowledge, are able 

to draw on the considerable collective experience 

of their colleagues. We believe this approach is 

unique to Audley and the only way that we can 

genuinely offer you a tailor-made service. 

Financial security 

All travel arrangements in this brochure that 

include a flight are ATOL protected by the Civil 

Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 4817. 

Please see our booking conditions for more 

information. If your arrangements do not include 

any flights from the UK they are protected by a 

separate financial scheme, for further details 

please visit www.audleytravel.com/protect 

The pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx 

Contents 

Introduction 2-7 

Egypt 8-29 

Jordan 30-45 

Syria 46-55 

Lebanon 56-59 

Morocco 60-77 

Tunisia 78-81 

Libya 82-83 

Iran 84-89 

Oman 90-98 

Useful information 99

Experience North Africa 

and the Middle East 

With Arabic spoken across most of the region it is easy to think of the countries in 

North Africa and the Middle East as being homogeneous and indistinct. This is far 

from the case though, and each has its own unique customs, traditions, and history to be 

discovered and experienced. 

Ancient sites 

Byzantine mosaic, Lebanon 

Carpets in Kairouan, Tunisia 

Nasir al Mulk Mosque, Iran 

From Voloubilis in Morocco to Persepolis in Iran, 

the region’s archaeology and architecture 

demonstrate the historical and cultural influences 

which have come and gone through the millennia 

across the region. Egypt has perhaps the richest 

collection of ancient monuments, spread 

throughout the country and with plenty still to 

be discovered. The Pyramids of Giza are without 

doubt one of the most recognisable structures in 

the world, and exploring the Nile Valley will bring 

you to one of the largest religious buildings in the 

region, the Temple of Karnak. Archaeological sites 

in Lebanon and Syria originate from a medley of 

different periods of antiquity, with places such as 

Byblos claiming a history of over eight millennia. 

In Tunisia, evidence of the Carthaginians was 

almost entirely swept from the map with only 

tiny vestiges of their civilisation still visible today, 

at Kerkouane and the Punic Ports. 

The cradle of civilisation 

What strikes most visitors to this area is just how 

ancient the sites and monuments littered across 

the region are. The Pyramids of Giza, for instance, 

were more ancient to Jesus than Jesus is to us 

now. As far back as the fifth millennium BC, the 

Sumerians were developing sophisticated social 

structures and around 1400 BC, the Phoenicians 

created the first alphabet in their original lands in 

the Levant. The Great Pyramid in Egypt was 

completed around 2600 BC and Ancient Egyptian 

culture flourished for thousands of years before 

being absorbed into the Classical World. The 

Greeks and the Romans in their turn dominated 

the region, leaving behind their trademark 

colonnaded streets, temples and theatres. Against 

this backdrop, the Jewish and Christian faiths 

came into being, followed in the 7th century AD 

by Islam, spreading outwards from the Arabian 

peninsula with the Arab Conquest. The countries 

of the region are thus home to some of the most 

important religious monuments in the world, 

including the earliest temples, churches, mosques 

and the tombs of the prophets. 

Local ladies, Egypt 

Local culture and etiquette 

A degree of cultural sensitivity is required when 

visiting the countries in this brochure. Religion is 

an important aspect of life for most of the people 

you will meet – Islam is the predominant faith, 

but Christianity and Judaism are also present, 

along with small sects such as the Druze in Syria 

and Lebanon. The level of conservatism varies 

from country to country, and some have had 

greater exposure to European visitors than 

others, so the degree of moderation you need 

to display does vary. Our specialists will advise 

you on this. 

However, there are some general rules that you 

should always respect. Women should not wear 

tight or revealing clothing, and it is always 

advisable to keep the shoulders and upper arms 

covered, as well as wearing shorts or skirts and 

dresses that reach at least to the knee. Men 

should always wear a shirt or t-shirt; in some 

places shorts are acceptable, in others trousers 

are a better option. Where it is possible to visit 

a religious building, such as a mosque or a 

church, always cover the shoulders, arms and legs. 

In mosques you will normally also be required to 

take off your shoes and women may be required 

to cover their heads. Ramadan, the month of 

fasting in Islam, is a time when things slow down 

a bit during the day and opening hours are 

curtailed, although it is perfectly possible to travel 

in some countries at this time. 

4

Guiding and excursions 

Your guides will bring the history of the ancient 

world alive and provide a modern context to the 

places that you visit. In some countries they will 

accompany you throughout your trip and at 

other times local guides will be provided for 

specific sites or cities. 

In countries such as Jordan and Oman, we 

recommend travelling with a driver only or 

self-driving. On Nile cruises, the excursions are 

always in small groups of around 15 people. 

Guides in Egypt all have to study for a 

wide-ranging degree in order to gain 

employment. They are consequently very well 

informed about all periods of Egyptian history 

including the legends of Ancient Egypt and 

aspects of Coptic and Islamic traditions. 

Spices for sale, Morocco 

Desert experiences 

The image of camping out in the lee of majestic 

sand dunes under a brilliant night sky is a 

powerful draw. Picking the right destination and 

accommodation for this experience is essential. 

We have sought out small, intimate desert camps, 

notably in the Sahara in Morocco, Wadi Rum in 

Jordan and the Wahiba Sands in Oman, all of 

which have a good range of facilities. 

Hiking and walking tours 

The mountains of Morocco and the nature 

reserves of Jordan are established destinations for 

hiking. Options range from day walks in the High 

Atlas and Dana Nature Reserve through to 

ascents of Morocco’s Jebel Toubkal and five day 

hikes into Petra. In the cities you may wish to 

follow one of our walking tours, which are 

designed to show the usual highlights and 

destinations in a new light. They are not especially 

arduous and will typically take two to four hours, 

combining historic sights with glimpses of 

modern-day life. 

Roman city of Jerash, Jordan 

Roman history 

With the exception of Oman and Iran, 

every country in this brochure has 

experienced the tramp of legionary 

boots and the rule of toga-clad 

governors. The Roman narrative, from 

the early days of the Republic to the 

collapse of the Empire, can be traced 

through the basilicas, monumental 

arches, forums and theatres which are 

still standing. From Voloubilis in Morocco 

right through to Palmyra in Syria, the 

Roman Empire’s influence can be felt 

and seen across much of the region. 

Camel driver, Saqqara, Egypt 

01993 838 400 ● Introduction 5

Experience North Africa 

and the Middle East 

Tagines, Morocco 

Cuisine 

Cuisine in the Arab world is interesting and 

flavoursome, using fresh produce as well as a 

wide range of spices such as cardamom, cumin, 

coriander and sumac (the latter being typical of 

the Levant). 

Lebanese influence is found across the region 

and the formula of a selection of starters, known 

as mezze, followed by a main course, usually 

including red meat or chicken and served with 

rice, is common in Syria, Egypt and Jordan. 

Morocco has superb food, with the local 

specialities of tajine and couscous now popular 

worldwide. Such is the interest in Moroccan 

cuisine that there are now opportunities to take 

cookery courses during your stay in Marrakesh. 

Tunisian food is similar to Moroccan, although it 

is a bit spicier owing to the liberal use of harissa 

(a chilli paste). Seafood, taken directly from the 

Mediterranean, is also a highlight. There isn’t 

really a recognisable Omani cuisine and dishes 

tend to incorporate influences from neighbouring 

areas, such as India, Iran and the Arab world. 

Further east, Persian food is influenced by the 

Subcontinent, with saffron infused dishes. 

Accommodation 

Styles of accommodation vary greatly, although 

standards are generally high. Morocco has the 

most interesting accommodation options, with its 

wide array of riads. These are intimate converted 

townhouses, which display the best of traditional 

architecture and design and are usually located 

at the heart of the medinas (old walled part of 

the towns). 

In Egypt and Jordan, properties tend to be 

comfortable international chain hotels with plenty 

of facilities. Nods are made towards traditional 

architecture although they are not always imbued 

with local character. There are some notable 

exceptions such as the heritage hotels in Egypt 

and Feynan Ecolodge in Jordan. Syria and Tunisia 

offer modern hotels as well as converted family 

homes in the old towns. Oman has a wide array 

of luxury hotels in the capital, Muscat. Most are 

quite grand, but one or two have more style and 

character. Outside Muscat, accommodation is 

fairly basic, although always clean and 

comfortable. In much of Libya and Iran, basic 

standards are the best you can hope for: the 

focus for any trip to these countries should be 

the excursions and not the accommodation. 

Young Moroccan man in Ait Benhaddou 

Typical riad, Morocco 

6 

Palmyra in the evening, Syria

Al-Azhar Mosque, Egypt 

Responsible travel 

We are passionate about travel but also deeply 

aware of the responsibility we have to the people 

and places we visit. We believe that a visit from 

an Audley traveller should have a positive impact 

on the destination and, wherever possible, bring 

real benefits. We always endeavour to use locally 

owned hotels, work with local guides and 

operators, and promote community and wildlife 

projects. Our Traveller’s Code offers tips and 

advice you can use to ensure your trip does not 

threaten the sustainability of the places you visit. 

We carbon offset all our staff flights and you can 

choose to do the same, please speak to your 

specialist about this or follow the link on our 

website www.audleytravel.com/offset. 

Our commitment to responsible travel has been 

audited by AITO (Association of Independent 

Tour Operators) and we have been awarded 

five stars, the maximum achievable. We also 

support a variety of social and environmental 

charities and projects around the world. 

In the past, the North Africa and Middle East 

team has raised money to support The Hannan 

School in Morocco, which works to provide 

better education and welfare for a small Berber 

community in the Middle Atlas mountains. 

We continue to organise fundraising events to 

support similar projects. 

Travelling around 

We use the most convenient means of transport 

for each sector of your journey and it is likely that 

your Audley specialist has travelled along the 

same route themself. In general road journeys are 

undertaken in modern, air-conditioned vehicles, 

while 4x4 vehicles are used for expeditions into 

the deserts. Rail journeys are possible in Morocco 

and Egypt, but the overnight journeys are not 

always the most comfortable way to get around. 

In Egypt, cruises on the Nile and Lake Nasser 

are often the most convenient way to visit many 

of the archaeological sites in a short time, as well 

as offering opportunities to see modern Egyptian 

life along the river and to spend time relaxing 

on board. 

Trader at Nizwa cattle market, Oman 

Traditional felucca boat on the Nile, Egypt 

Political change in the region 

Momentous change has taken place in the region, 

with old certainties falling away. 

In the long term these changes should offer the 

hope of a better and brighter future for the 

peoples of these lands. Such is the enormity of 

them though, that the ripples will no doubt be felt 

for many years to come. On occasion, this can 

create uncertainty as to whether to travel or not. 

For all the countries in which Audley operates, 

the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office acts as 

an arbiter of whether countries are safe to visit, 

and we will always be guided by their expert 

advice. Our specialists are always very happy to 

discuss any concerns you may have. 

01993 838 400 ● Introduction 7

Egypt 

For centuries, Egypt has been drawing 

visitors to marvel at the temples and 

funerary monuments of its ancient 

civilisation. Lining the banks of the Nile, 

they are crammed into the narrow strip of 

fertile land within the desert which makes 

up most of the country. From the iconic 

Pyramids of Giza to the temples of Abu 

Simbel, there is an array of sites that form 

the core of Egypt’s appeal. There is more to 

Egypt than just the Ancient Egyptians 

though, and Cairo is the perfect example, 

where layer upon layer of medieval history 

competes for space with Fatimid citadels, 

Mamluke souqs, Ottoman mosques and the 

trappings of a modern city. Beyond the Nile, 

the Red Sea’s stunning coral reefs are fringed 

by sandy beaches which enjoy year-round sun. 

Deserts are filled with remarkable rock 

formations and sand seas which shelter 

isolated oases and remote monasteries. While 

many of Egypt’s historic attractions are still 

in situ, a wonderful selection of artefacts 

can also be found in the country’s museums. 

Chief amongst them is the Museum of 

Egyptian Antiquities in Cairo, one of the 

most famous museums in the world. 

8

Audley in Egypt 

1 

2 

5 

4 

3 

7 

With most of Egypt’s places of interest lying 

along the line of the Nile, travelling from one 

to another is straightforward. Travel across 

larger distances is by air, while local travel 

and sightseeing are easiest with a private 

driver and guide. Nile cruises are the most 

popular way to visit Egypt’s greatest 

archaeological treasures around Luxor and 

Aswan, and include guided excursions. These 

are in groups of around 20, with professional, 

English-speaking guides. For the more 

adventurous, desert excursions with 4x4 

vehicles on a private basis can allow you to 

discover lesser-known sites and attractions. 

Certain dates, such as the holy month of 

Ramadan, when most of the country fasts 

during daylight hours, may affect your travel 

plans. We will always ensure such factors 

are taken into account. 

6 

Accommodation 

The Pyramids of Giza 

1 The Pyramids 

Egypt’s most iconic site, 

located on the outskirts of 

Cairo, the Pyramids are 

amongst the world’s greatest 

ancient monuments. 

2 Cairo 

Below the surface of what 

seems an ordinary, busy and 

modern city, you will find layer 

upon layer of history. 

3 Karnak Temple 

Just one of Ancient Egypt’s 

extraordinary monuments, 

Karnak is the largest ancient 

religious complex in the world. 

4 Valley of the Kings 

The location of the pharaohs’ 

tombs, which are exquisitely 

decorated with frescoes telling 

of ancient legends. 

5 The Nile 

Lifeblood of the Egyptians, 

ancient and modern, the Nile is 

a spectacular river. A journey 

along its course is an essential 

part of your trip. 

6 Abu Simbel 

Abu Simbel is the most 

southerly of the Ancient 

Egyptian monuments, but what 

makes it so impressive is the 

fact that the temples were 

moved from their original 

position following the creation 

of Lake Nasser. 

Underwater life, Red Sea 

7 The Red Sea 

Cairo’s underwater treasures 

match the ancient ones found 

on land. The reefs of the Red 

Sea are home to a myriad of 

fish and coral species. 

Felucca on the Nile 

The desert oases 

Isolated by miles of desert from 

one another and from the Nile, 

the desert oases have 

developed their own cultures. 

Heritage hotels 

The Mena House Oberoi Hotel 

in Cairo, the Old Winter Palace 

in Luxor and the Old Cataract 

in Aswan are three of the 

country’s venerable hotels, each 

with period character and 

excellent locations. 

Karnak Temple 

There is a good range of accommodation 

available in Egypt with some hotels offering 

good value, others providing a characterful 

place to stay and others offering luxurious 

comfort. The country is blessed with some 

wonderful historic hotels, rich in charm and 

character. Many of these have played host to 

historical events or visiting dignitaries through 

the ages. Other properties tend to be 

international chain hotels that are very 

comfortable and have higher levels of service, 

but offer less in the way of character. Many 

hotels in Egypt are set near the Nile 

or the sea, and where possible we would 

suggest upgrading to rooms which make the 

most of the views as the supplements are 

seldom prohibitive. 

Find out more 

For suggested itineraries and practical 

information about travel in Egypt, please see 

pages 28-29. 

☎ 

www.audleytravel.com 

Interactive maps and features, 

further suggested itineraries, 

accommodation, climate information 

and articles written by our specialists. 

Discuss your plans with our Egypt 

specialists 01993 838 410 

Egypt 9

Al-Azhar Park, Cairo 

Cairo 

Sprawling across the Nile, Cairo is one of Africa’s 

greatest cities and it continues to grow at a rapid 

pace. It is very much the focus of Egypt’s political 

and cultural life, so much so that Egyptians refer 

to their country and their capital with the same 

name – ‘Masr’. First impressions are of urban 

sprawl, dusty streets and chaotic driving, but 

visitors who persevere are rewarded with a 

diverse and dramatic history and some relatively 

unknown attractions. The one stop that must be 

included in any visit to Cairo is the Museum of 

Egyptian Antiquities, which contains a vast 

treasure trove handed down through the ages – 

the building itself is a jewel of the French colonial 

period in Egypt. Scratch beneath the surface and 

Cairo reveals wondrous secrets, beautiful 

mosques, an imposing citadel, labyrinthine bazaars, 

ancient Coptic churches and unexpected patches 

of green beside the River Nile. 

Cairo Walking Tour 

We have designed a self guided walking tour of 

Cairo based on our personal experiences and 

knowledge of the city. Eschewing the standard 

stops on most visitors’ itineraries, it not only 

shows the city’s less well-known gates, mosques 

and monuments, but also offers an insight into 

daily Cairene life, in all its entertaining chaos. 

Street by street directions let you explore at your 

own pace and pass from the colonial-era 

Downtown district to your final destination, the 

legendary medieval souqs at Khan El Khalili. 

SOFITEL EL GEZIRAH, CAIRO 

The Sofitel is located on the southern tip of 

Gezirah Island, between the Downtown and 

Giza areas of Cairo, in a secluded, relatively quiet 

spot. The 433 rooms have a subtle decor and 

smart, compact bathrooms. The hotel boasts 

fantastic views over the Nile, with the Muqattam 

Hills and the Pyramids of Giza visible on clear 

days. Inside, the range of facilities is impressive, 

with a Middle Eastern restaurant, and as one 

would expect from the Sofitel chain, a French 

restaurant, amongst other dining options. 

The Museum of 

Egyptian Antiquities 

The joke goes that there are so many 

artefacts packed into the Museum of 

Egyptian Antiquities in Cairo that some 

of them need to be re-excavated from 

the basement. Whether or not this is 

true, it is clear that the museum is in 

need of some renovation or even a 

relocation – both solutions have been 

mooted in past years. Nonetheless, the 

museum is an essential inclusion on any 

trip to Cairo. Rooms are crammed with 

statues, models, jewellery and mummies, 

but the highlight is undoubtedly the 

Tutankhamun galleries, displaying the 

funerary artefacts of the Boy Pharaoh, 

glistening with gold, precious lapis lazuli 

and coral stones. 

Sofitel El Gezirah, Cairo 

10

Mosaic, Hanging Church, Coptic Cairo 

Minarets of Islamic Cairo 

FOUR SEASONS FIRST 

RESIDENCE, CAIRO 

Located on the Giza side (west bank) of the Nile, 

the Four Seasons is a grand, elegant and luxurious 

hotel. As part of the prestigious First Residence 

complex, the hotel has direct access to 

sophisticated haute couture boutiques and 

galleries, yet the ancient history and culture of the 

city are just minutes away. The 269 rooms and 

suites are among the largest in the city and are 

designed with elegance and relaxation in mind, 

while the large spa is the perfect place to unwind 

after a day’s sightseeing. 

Four Seasons First Residence, Cairo 

Rooftop pool, Kempinski Nile Hotel, Cairo 

KEMPINSKI NILE HOTEL, CAIRO 

With one of the most exclusive addresses in 

central Cairo, the Kempinski Nile Hotel offers a 

tasteful blend of European luxury with exotic 

Egyptian flavour. Smaller than other international 

hotels in the city, it promises a more personal 

and intimate atmosphere. The hotel is 

immaculately decorated and the attention to 

detail is outstanding. It boasts all the modern 

facilities that you could ask for, with a number 

of bars and restaurants, a beautiful spa and a 

rooftop swimming pool, topped off by great 

views of the Nile. 

St George’s Church, Coptic Cairo 

Islamic Cairo 

Islamic Cairo is a distinct quarter of the capital 

and is a wonderful place to explore on foot, with 

beautiful examples of Islamic architecture found 

around each corner. It is difficult to discern the 

city walls any more but some of the gates remain. 

The grand Bab an-Nasr and Bab Zuweila gates at 

the northern and southern ends of the city show 

just how powerful and prosperous a place Cairo 

was in the medieval age. Elsewhere, tranquil 

madrassas, mausoleums and traditional family 

homes offer an insight into life in a Muslim city of 

the past, contrasting with the bustling streets filled 

with the cries of vendors and the aromas of 

spices, coffee, incense and perfumes. 

Coptic Cairo 

Coptic Cairo is one of the quietest areas of the 

capital, its calm streets and alleys a welcome relief 

from the hustle and bustle of central Cairo. This is 

the oldest part of the city, and is home to ancient 

churches and Africa’s first mosque. It is here that 

the Holy Family is reputed to have stayed during 

the flight to Egypt, as described in the Bible. The 

Hanging Church (Al-Mu’allaqa in Arabic) is one 

of the capital’s most iconic monuments, cherished 

by Christians and Muslims alike. It is not only a 

beautiful piece of architecture but also an 

extraordinary feat of engineering, built without 

foundations so it appears suspended in its position. 

www.audleytravel.com/egypt ● 01993 838 410 ● Egypt 11

Pyramids 



More than any other monuments, the Pyramids 

of Giza symbolise the mystic appeal that Egypt 

has exerted over travellers for centuries. 

Instantly recognisable, their vast silhouettes 

dominate the Giza skyline, with gritty streets on 

one side and endless desert sands on the other. 

Sentinel to the Pyramids, the Sphinx sits in 

enigmatic splendour. 

The Giza Plateau spreads for several kilometres, 

with the three Pyramids the most obvious 

monuments in a much larger burial complex. 

The Pyramids date back to the fourth dynasty 

of the Ancient Egyptians, (between 2670 BC 

and 2500 BC) and were one of the Seven 

Wonders of the Ancient World. You can go 

inside some of the pyramids, but it is a bit of a 

physical ordeal and it is not recommended for 

those who are claustrophobic. 

Guardian, Saqqara 

Sphinx at Memphis, near Cairo 

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza, 

Saqqara and Dashur 

We would recommend a day to visit the 

Pyramids of Giza, Saqqara and Dashur, 

accompanied by a driver and guide. Your guide 

will recount the histories of all three sites and 

the stories of the pharaohs who ordered the 

construction of these burial monuments. By 

visiting Giza, Saqqara and Dashur you will be 

able to get a really in-depth insight into the 

development of pyramid design, starting with 

the mastabas (a simple tomb structure that 

developed over time to become a pyramid) 

on view at Saqqara and ending with the zenith 

of Ancient Egyptian engineering and architecture 

at the Great Pyramids of Cheops. 

Saqqara 

Within easy reach of Cairo, the site of Saqqara 

is far less visited than the Giza Plateau. Saqqara 

is where the royalty and nobility of Memphis 

(Ancient Egypt’s capital) were buried, and there 

are a large number of mastabas and temples to 

explore. The most important is the Step 

Pyramid of Zoser, which predates the Great 

Pyramid of Cheops by about 75 years and 

marks the moment when the pyramid age 

began under the direction of the architect 

Imhotep. Building on increasingly larger mortuary 

mastabas for his pharaoh Zoser, Imhotep 

eventually struck on the idea of a stepped 

pyramid, and the other larger and more famous 

pyramids took their inspiration directly from 

this design. 

The Step Pyramid at Saqqara 

12

The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx 

The Bent Pyramid, Dashur 

Dashur 

The furthest of the Ancient Egyptian sites visited 

from Cairo, Dashur is an impressive pyramid 

field with two particularly notable examples, 

both completed during the reign of the Pharaoh 

Snofru, the father of Cheops and founder of the 

fourth dynasty. The Red Pyramid, so called 

because of the red limestone used in its 

construction, is the second largest in Egypt, only 

exceeded in size by the Great Pyramid at Giza. 

The Bent Pyramid is remarkable for two 

reasons. Firstly the angle of the slope changes 

abruptly halfway up the face of the pyramid 

(hence its name) and secondly, its limestone 

cladding is almost intact, unlike all other Egyptian 

pyramids. This gives a very rare insight into how 

all pyramids must have looked when first built. 

MENA HOUSE OBEROI HOTEL, 

CAIRO 

There can be few hotels with a location to 

match the Mena House. It is nestled at the foot 

of the Giza Plateau, directly below the looming 

presence of the Great Pyramid. Built as a 

hunting lodge by Khedive Ismail, a 19th century 

Egyptian ruler, it was converted to a hotel in 

1886 and welcomed guests from international 

royalty and high society. It was also where 

Churchill and Roosevelt met to plan the D-Day 

landings. Today it combines classic 19th century 

arabesque architecture and design with more 

modern features, along with 16 hectares of 

jasmine-scented gardens and a pool. 

View from balcony, Mena House Oberoi Hotel, Cairo 

The Red Pyramid, Dashur 


Fort of Qaitbey, Alexandria 

Montazah Palace, Alexandria 

Alexandria 

For centuries, Alexandria was arguably the most 

important city in Classical civilisation. It was a 

centre of learning, where the earliest 

developments in science and philosophy were 

achieved and where the world’s largest collection 

of books was to be found. Precious little of the 

old Alexandria remains, just Pompey’s Pillar and 

the catacombs of Kom el-Shufaqa. The modern 

city has a Mediterranean air and becomes 

incredibly busy in the summer months, when 

Cairenes escape the heat to the country’s 

northern coastal resorts. 

14 

FOUR SEASONS, ALEXANDRIA 

Set on the Mediterranean coast, the Four Seasons 

is a short drive from many of the attractions that 

draw the visitor to Alexandria, including the Fort 

of Qaitbey, the catacombs and the museum. The 

hotel provides Four Seasons’ quality and service 

with the 118 rooms and suites furnished in an 

elegant European style. The atmosphere is intimate 

and exclusive, with a fantastic array of facilities, 

from superb restaurants to an excellent spa. 

Pompey’s Pillar, Alexandria 

Four Seasons, Alexandria 

El Alamein 

Heading along the coast from Alexandria to the 

west, there are a few more historic sites, 

including Abu Sir, known as Taposiris Magna in 

Classical times and renowned for its lighthouse. 

The main reason to travel to this region is to go 

to El Alamein, about 100 kilometres west of 

Alexandria. The battles here marked a turning 

point in World War II, with considerable loss of 

life on both sides. The rows of headstones in the 

various war cemeteries bear silent witness to 

heroism in Egypt’s desert. 

Commonwealth War Cemetery, El Alamein

Bedouin woman wearing traditional jewellery 

Old town of Siwa 

The White Desert 

Siwa oasis 

Siwa 

Located some 600 kilometres from Alexandria 

and surrounded in every direction by the 

treacherous dunes of the Sahara, the oasis of 

Siwa is largely untouched by the outside world. 

It remains an outpost of Berber culture and is a 

real contrast for visitors coming from Cairo, Luxor 

or Aswan. The Berbers in this town remained 

independent until 1820, when they finally came 

under Egyptian governance. They retain their own 

language, lifestyle, architecture and dress. Siwa is 

perhaps best known for the Oracle of Amun, 

where Alexander the Great sought confirmation 

that he was the son of Zeus. It can either be the 

sole destination on a trip into Egypt’s western 

desert, or a stop on a longer circuit of all the 

oases in this area. 

The Desert Circuit 

A desert adventure provides a great contrast to 

the well-trodden path of the Nile valley. The main 

oases are now mainly connected by asphalt roads, 

making it easier to explore the expanses of desert 

between places like Siwa, Kharga, Bahariya and 

Dakhla. Each oasis has its own atmosphere and 

landscape, including the salt lakes of Siwa, the 

dramatic White and Black Deserts between 

Bahariya and Farafra and the traditional mud-brick 

village of Dakhla. 

Adrère Amellal, Siwa 

Exploring the desert between Siwa and Bahariya 

ADRÈRE AMELLAL, SIWA 

An amazing feat of traditional engineering, this 

hotel is built entirely out of natural materials. 

There is no electricity or man-made fibres – all 

that you see, from the furniture made from salt, 

to the mud walls – is produced locally. There are 

40 rooms, each individually designed. You can 

choose a different courtyard every night for 

dinner, each giving you a different view. Set at 

the foot of the White Mountain, the hotel has 

commanding views of the salt lakes of Siwa and 

their native and migratory birdlife. 


Introduction to Egyptian history 

Tomb painting, Luxor 

Kiosk of Trajan, Philae Temple 

Ancient Egypt 

Ancient Egypt’s history stretches over 3,000 

years, and making sense of its various dynasties, 

pharaohs, gods, myths and legends is a challenge 

to most visitors. Visiting a variety of pyramids, 

temples and tombs during your trip goes some 

way to putting this history into context, but you 

may find that a detailed guidebook wouldn’t go 

amiss either. 

The history starts with the legendary founding 

of the Ancient Egyptian kingdom, under Pharaoh 

Menes, in around 3100 BC. This pharaoh, 

according to myth, unified the two kingdoms of 

Upper and Lower Egypt, consolidating them 

under one crown. From that moment, the 

Egyptians created one of the most developed 

civilisations of the ancient world. A complex 

series of myths featuring thousands of gods 

sprung up, helping the Egyptians to explain the 

creation of the earth and nature. Inventions such 

as papyrus paper and the hieroglyphic system of 

writing meant these myths were disseminated 

and recorded for posterity. In the last years of 

the Ancient Egyptian civilisation a series of 

foreign powers, including the Hellenistic forces 

of Alexander the Great, and the Roman Empire, 

began to hold sway over the lands, bringing to 

an end this great influence on the world’s history. 

Karnak Temple 

Monk, St Anthony’s Monastery 

Christian Egypt 

Following the Ancient Egyptians, the Hellenistic 

Ptolemaic dynasty and then the Romans ruled 

Egypt, bringing with them their own gods and 

religious myths. According to local tradition, 

Christianity was brought to Egypt by St Mark in 

around 60 AD, at the time of the Emperor 

Nero. In the years following St Mark’s arrival, 

local people became frustrated with the 

existing rulers from Rome, and were 

consequently enthusiastic converts to the new 

religion. The Copts, as these converts became 

known, encountered difficulties in practising their 

new faith and suffered considerable persecution 

even after Emperor Constantine made it the 

16

Coptic church service, Cairo 

Mosaic, Coptic church, Cairo 

official religion of the empire. In 451 AD, when 

attempts to reconcile Coptic beliefs and 

practices with those of Byzantium failed, the 

division became final and the Copts established 

their own Patriarchate in Alexandria. 

Ancient churches are found throughout Egypt, 

but particularly in Coptic Cairo. Monasteries in 

the midst of the deserts and mountains also 

date back over a thousand years in some cases. 

St Catherine’s Monastery in the Sinai and St 

Paul’s Monastery in the eastern desert are 

amongst the most beautiful and isolated religious 

buildings in the world. Today, Coptic Christians 

make up approximately ten per cent of the 

Egyptian population and have historically been 

very important in the political arena with 

Boutros Boutros Ghali being perhaps the most 

well-known Copt. 

St George’s Greek Orthodox Church, Coptic Cairo 

Citadel, Cairo 

Islamic Egypt 

The Arabs arrived in the 7th century AD, 

coming from the Arabian Peninsula to the lands 

of Egypt, soon after the time of the Prophet 

Mohammed. From this time onwards, Islam 

became the dominant religion of the area and 

remains the official state religion of Egypt. 

Since the 7th century, the country has been 

ruled by a succession of Islamic dynasties and 

empires – the Umayyads, Abbasids, Tulunids, 

Fatimids, Ayyubids, Mamlukes and Ottomans 

have all left their mark on the country’s history. 

The remnants of the golden ages of Islam can 

be seen throughout Egypt, but especially so in 

Cairo, which is practically a living museum of 

Islamic architecture. Buildings such as the Ibn 

Tulun Mosque, the Al-Azhar Mosque and the 

Citadel of Saladin all date to different periods 

of Islamic history and this is reflected in the 

styles and subtleties of their architecture. 

Nowadays, Egypt is perhaps even more 

devout than it was a century ago, demonstrated 

by the overflowing mosques every Friday, the 

minarets which soar into Cairo’s skyline and 

the enthusiasm with which Muslim Egyptians 

celebrate festivals such as Ramadan, Eid Al-Adha 

and the saints’ birthdays. 

Mosque and madrassa of Sultan Barquq, Cairo 

Mosque lamps for sale, Cairo 

Timeline 

3100 BC The two kingdoms of Lower and 

Upper Egypt are united. 

2560 BC Great Pyramid of Giza completed. 

2500 BC The Sphinx completed. 

1425 BC Egyptian power at its zenith, 

controlling territory from the north 

of Syria to southern Sudan. 

1350 BC Rule of Akhenaten and his wife 

Nefertiti, succeeded by his son 

Tutankhamun. 

1279 BC Rameses the Great ascends the 

throne. During his reign many temples 

and monuments are built throughout 

Egypt, including the incredible temples 

of Abu Simbel. 

552 BC Cambyses II conquers Egypt and makes 

it part of the vast Persian Empire. 

332 BC Alexander the Great conquers Egypt, 

his successors establish the city of 

Alexandria and usher in the 

Ptolemaic era. 

30 BC Egypt becomes a province of the 

Roman empire after the defeat of the 

Ptolemaic Queen Cleopatra and her 

Roman ally Marc Anthony. 

60 AD Christianity arrives in Egypt. 

646 AD Muslim conquest of Egypt. 

1517 AD Conquest of Egypt by the Ottomans. 

1798 AD Napoleon Bonaparte briefly conquers 

Egypt before being expelled by 

Ottoman, Mamluk and British forces. 

1805 AD Muhammad Ali, founder of modern 

Egypt, takes the throne. 

1875 AD Egypt becomes a de facto British 

protectorate. 

1922 AD Sultan Fuad 1 becomes leader of an 

independent Egypt, succeeded by his 

son King Farouk. 

1922 AD Howard Carter discovers the tomb 

of Tutankhamun. 

1953 AD Egypt declared a republic, Gamal 

Abdel Nasser becomes President 

shortly afterwards. 

1970 AD Completion of Aswan High Dam 

leads to formation of Lake Nasser. 

2011 AD Egyptians vote in the country’s first 

free elections. 


Luxor temple by night 

Felucca on the Nile at Luxor 

Luxor 

Located on the east bank of the Nile, most of 

the town of Luxor is modern, but has grown up 

around a phenomenal concentration of ancient 

monuments, including the world famous Karnak 

and Luxor temples. Cross the Nile to the west 

bank and you enter the necropolis of Thebes 

(the Ancient Egyptian name for Luxor), where the 

Ancient Egyptians’ buried their dead. There are a 

number of impressive funerary temples, but it is 

the tombs which draw people here. Carved into 

the rock, their decorations are still rich after 

thousands of years. 

18 

The Temples of Luxor 

and Karnak 

The Temple of Luxor is located at the heart 

of modern Luxor, its ancient columns 

incongruously set against new roads, buildings 

and the paraphernalia of a 21st century 

street. It was dedicated to the god Amun, his 

wife Mut and their son the moon god Khons. 

In common with all Egyptian religious 

complexes, it features chapels to the gods, 

a large hypostyle hall and a colonnaded open 

courtyard. The temple of Luxor was linked 

to that of Karnak by a street flanked by 

sphinxes, some of which can be seen on the 

edge of the temple complex. Karnak Temple, 

a little way outside Luxor, was built over a 

120 year period, and so consequently lacks 

continuity in its design and style. 

The entrance to Luxor Temple 

Statue of Thutmosis III, Karnak Temple 

This can be discerned when exploring the 

different temples, which date to the times 

of various different pharaohs. The hypostyle 

hall of 134 columns is truly a special sight 

to behold and even visitors who have 

been to Karnak before cannot fail to be 

impressed once again by the sheer scale of 

what they see.

The Valley of the Kings 

The Theban necropolis is found on the 

west bank of the Nile at Luxor, and is one 

of the most visited attractions in Egypt, and 

perhaps the world. Here funerary temples 

and tombs are are so well-preserved that 

they have taught archaeologists and historians 

a great deal about Ancient Egyptian history 

and legends, as well as the funerary practices 

of this civilisation. 

The Valley of the Kings is usually the 

focus of most trips to the west bank, with 

its tombs cut into the surrounding hillside. 

The paintings on the walls of these tombs 

seem as fresh as the day they were 

completed, yet they date back over 

3,000 years. 

Tomb reliefs, Valley of the Kings 

The gods Horus and Isis, Temple of Hathor, Dendera 

Elsewhere, the remains of massive funerary 

temples are found, though only a few remain. 

Those dedicated to Hatchepsut, Ramses II 

and Ramses III are the best preserved and 

a visit to the west bank would not be 

complete without including at least one of 

these. There are still more tombs to be 

seen, in the Valley of the Queens and the 

Tombs of the Nobles, with paintings that 

are equally as impressive as those in the 

Valley of the Kings. 

Detail from tomb, Valley of the Kings 

Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa 

HILTON LUXOR RESORT & SPA 

The Hilton is the most luxurious and 

contemporary hotel in the city, with majestic 

views over the Nile. It has one of the most 

impressive spa complexes in Egypt, with an 

amazing infinity pool and an incredible location 

right next to the Nile. Rooms are comfortable 

and spacious and for extra luxury you could 

choose to stay in one of the Spa Suites. You can 

enjoy a sundowner or a shisha pipe in real 

comfort, looking out over the Nile. The hotel 

is just a 15 minute walk from Karnak Temple, 

which you can visit at any time under your 

own steam. 

AL MOUDIRA, LUXOR 

On the outskirts of Gezira, a small village on the 

west bank at Luxor, Al Moudira is an oasis of 

calm away from the touts and trinket sellers of 

the town. Built by a Lebanese lady, it is one of 

the few hotels in Egypt with a truly Arab sense 

of style. Moorish arches and peaceful courtyards 

give the feel of an Ottoman palace, and the 

colours used are those found in the nearby 

tombs and temples. In the rooms, high ceilings 

and traditional designs and furniture complete 

the sense of a luxurious retreat after a busy 

day’s sightseeing. 

Sofitel Winter Palace, Luxor 

SOFITEL WINTER PALACE, LUXOR 

One of the most famous hotels in Egypt, the 

Winter Palace was built in the late 19th century 

to provide accommodation for visiting English 

nobility. It was here that Howard Carter was 

staying (courtesy of Lord Carnarvon) when he 

discovered Tutankhamun’s tomb. A building of 

real character, it occupies a prime location on the 

Nile Corniche in Luxor. The hotel was recently 

renovated and the 86 rooms have marvellous 

high ceilings and period furnishings. A grand place 

to stay when exploring the temples of Luxor. 

Al Moudira, Luxor 

Goddess of Hathor, Dendera 

Dendera & Abydos 

Dendera is just over 30 miles north of Luxor 

along the Nile valley, near the town of Qena. 

There was a temple here dating back at least to 

the time of Cheops and the Old Kingdom 

(around 2560 BC), although much of what you 

see today is Ptolemaic in origin (around 300 BC). 

The temple was dedicated to the worship of 

Hathor, the goddess of joy and love, equated 

with the Greek Aphrodite. The goddess takes on 

bovine form, a possible link to a time when the 

Sahara was fertile grazing ground. At Dendera this 

is best seen in the column capitals, sculpted to 

form the goddess’ head, complete with long 

cow’s ears. Nearby, the temple of Seti I at 

Abydos occupies an important place in the 

religious history of Pharaonic Egypt. By the end 

of the Old Kingdom its local god, Osiris, was the 

most prominent and popular of the Egyptian gods 

since he was the god of the afterlife. According to 

tradition, Osiris’ head was buried in Abydos. 


Feluccas on the Nile, Aswan 

Edfu Temple 

Between Luxor and Aswan lie a number of 

archaeological sites, one of the most important 

of which is Edfu Temple. On the site where, 

according to Ancient Egyptian legend, the god 

Horus defeated the god Seth, Ptolemy III 

Euergetes began construction of a temple 

dedicated to Horus. Six pharaohs later it was 

complete, the second largest temple in Ancient 

Egypt after Karnak. 

Kom Ombo Temple 

Another important site, Kom Ombo is a 

Ptolemaic temple. Unusually it is dedicated to two 

different gods: Sobek, god of the Nile, normally 

represented by a crocodile, and Haroeris who 

was an older manifestation of Horus. To reflect 

this dual dedication, the temple is essentially 

mirrored down a central line, with two entrances 

and perfectly symmetrical construction right down 

to the twin sanctuaries to the two gods. 

Temple of Horus, Edfu 

20 

Sofitel Legend Old Cateract, Aswan 

Aswan 

Aswan is easily the prettiest town in Egypt and 

although not as rich in sights as Luxor, still has 

the picture-perfect Temple of Philae and the 

monumental High Dam. Feluccas sail on the 

winding Nile, past rounded boulders and palmfringed 

islands. The steep western banks of the 

river lead into the desert, the horizon broken 

only by the faint outlines of the Monastery of 

St Simeon and the Aga Khan’s Mausoleum. 

The town has a large Nubian population, some 

of whom were displaced from their original 

homeland following the creation of Lake Nasser. 

Today they live in villages on the Nile islands and 

their heritage and culture are celebrated in the 

fantastic Nubian Museum, one of the best 

museums in Egypt. 

SOFITEL LEGEND OLD 

CATARACT, ASWAN 

The Old Cataract is one of the prettiest hotels 

in one of the most scenic locations in Egypt and, 

since being renovated, one of the most luxurious 

too. Seemingly cut off from the town of Aswan 

itself, it faces out over the Nile to Elephantine 

Island and the sands of the Sahara beyond. The 

hotel itself is over a century old and its 138 

rooms have a wonderful mix of Arabesque and 

Edwardian style, with horseshoe arches, marble 

floors and delicate wooden screens. The bar and 

restaurant at the front of the hotel are the best 

place from which to view an Aswan sunset. 

BASMA HOTEL, ASWAN 

Perched on Aswan’s highest hill, this four star 

complex commands a breathtaking view of the 

Nile River as it snakes through the picturesque 

town of Aswan. It offers great value for money 

and is a good hotel for a short stay in the town. 

The large pool and garden terrace are the perfect 

place to relax and enjoy the sunshine, while the 

210 rooms are comfortable and decorated with 

original artwork by local artists.

Nubian men at the market, Aswan 

Mövenpick, Aswan 

MÖVENPICK, ASWAN 

Perched in the middle of the Nile, the Mövenpick 

is a very pleasant place to stay, perfect for 

relaxation after a hard day’s sightseeing. Sitting on 

one of the islands in the river, it boasts excellent 

views and beautiful gardens. The refurbished 

rooms are very tastefully furnished and there are 

very good sports facilities. The swimming pool is 

without question Aswan’s finest. 

Aswan High Dam 

The Aswan High Dam was built in the 1960s 

with assistance from the Soviet Union, replacing 

an earlier British-built dam. It is a huge, impressive 

structure. From the top of the dam, the wall 

drops steeply to power stations and the valley 

floor below, whilst to the south Lake Nasser 

stretches away as far as the eye can see. Off to 

one side of the dam is a large monument, 

shaped like a lotus blossom, a memorial to 

Soviet-Egyptian co-operation. The High Dam has 

assured Egypt of the possibility of three harvests 

a year and reduced the likelihood of famine, 

but not without damage to the environment 

and the country’s cultural heritage. The lands of 

Nubia were all but entirely submerged following 

the creation of Lake Nasser, with the loss of 

entire villages. 

Relief at Kom Ombo 

Philae Temple 

As the water rose behind the original British-built 

Aswan Dam, the Temple of Philae became partly 

submerged for half of the year, and visitors passed 

through the halls and colonnades by boat. With 

the construction of the High Dam, it became 

apparent that the temple would be completely 

submerged, along with several other key Nubian 

monuments. Philae was consequently moved to 

an island, to preserve the special atmosphere of 

the temple. A centre for the cult of Isis, in Roman 

times worship of this cult spread far and wide in 

the Empire, and it was Christianity’s principal rival 

between the 3rd and the 5th centuries. Today, 

after a short boat ride, you disembark into a 

colonnaded courtyard which leads into the 

temple itself, flanked by wonderfully carved 

pylons. Adjacent is the Kiosk of Trajan, a small 

compact temple with delightfully carved columns. 

Coffee break, Nubian style 

Nubian Egypt 

Responsible for some of the world’s 

finest historical treasures, the Nubians 

were renowned for their wealth, culture 

and military might. A nomadic people 

of northern Sudan and southern Egypt, 

they developed one of the greatest 

civilisations in Africa and were much 

admired and respected by the Ancient 

Egyptians. Sadly, much of Nubia is now 

submerged under Lake Nasser, and 

whilst numerous temples were salvaged, 

the villages of the Nubians had to be 

abandoned, with inhabitants rehoused 

further north in and around Aswan. 

Nonetheless, there has been a revival 

of interest in Nubian culture and history, 

demonstrated by the wonderful Nubian 

Museum in Aswan. 

Kiosk of Trajan, Philae Temple 


Nile Cruises 

Ruins on the banks of the Nile 

Cruising the Nile has long been seen as the 

most romantic way to visit the monuments of 

Ancient Egypt. Most Nile cruises today ply the 

waters between Luxor and Aswan, visiting the 

major sites at both towns and along the course 

of the river. The boats are essentially floating 

hotels and sightseeing is done in organised 

groups. There are a huge number of Nile cruise 

ships and given the relative scarcity of good 

hotels in the region, a Nile cruise is, for many 

people, the best way to see Upper Egypt. 

Routes 

Cruises take between three and seven nights 

to complete their itinerary. In general, the stops 

along the way are the same no matter which 

boat you choose and no matter which way you 

are travelling along the river. Visits will include 

places such as the Aswan High Dam, Philae 

Temple, Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples, the 

Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple. Some of 

the longer itineraries may include Dendera and 

Abydos and some dahabiyyas (traditional style 

boats) stop at smaller sites and islands, where it 

is impossible for the large cruise boats to moor. 

View of Luxor from the Nile 

Boat captain, Steam Ship Sudan 

Life on board 

The boats that we use have spacious communal 

areas, including an upper deck where you can 

take full advantage of the Nile scenery. 

Comfortable seating or sunbeds adorn the 

decks. Some boats have a small plunge pool, 

providing the perfect opportunity to cool off. 

There is a bar or lounge, usually open in the 

evening and providing the perfect place to relax 

on comfortable sofas and enjoy a cocktail 

before dinner. The restaurants on board offer 

buffet-style or à la carte meals, with all cruises 

operating on a full board basis. All of the boats 

we offer have double or twin bed en suite 

cabins with panoramic windows. All the rooms 

are air-conditioned and may have additional 

benefits, such as a fridge, TV or balcony. The 

number of cabins depends on the boat that 

you choose and suites are available for extra 

space. Excursions are usually done in the 

mornings and afternoons, in groups of around 

15 people, with a qualified guide. 

Choosing a boat 

There is a huge range of choice when it 

comes to picking a Nile cruise, from the small 

dahabiyyas (traditional boats with just eight 

cabins each) offering long, unusual itineraries, 

to the grand luxury of the large cruise boats 

which provide suites for all their passengers. 

Boats with character are available, including a 

refurbished steamship, once in the possession 

of the Egyptian royal family, while other cruises 

have all sorts of facilities for a very comfortable 

stay, such as plunge pools, spa treatments and 

small gyms. 

22

Steam Ship Sudan 

Hadeel Dahabiyya 

Presidential Nile cruise ship 

STEAM SHIP SUDAN 

Built in 1885, for King Fouad, this steamship 

has had many eminent guests over the years. 

Agatha Christie was inspired to write Death on 

the Nile after travelling on the boat and decades 

later, the Steam Ship Sudan provided the set for 

many of the film’s scenes. With just 23 cabins, 

five of which are suites, there is a cosy, intimate 

air on board. The boat is propelled by a hybrid 

diesel/steam engine, resulting in a quieter and 

more energy-efficient journey. The Steam Ship 

Sudan offers three and four night itineraries. 

HADEEL DAHABIYYA 

The Hadeel is a Nile dahabiyya boat with only 

eight cabins, offering a combination of traditional 

style and modern luxury. The public areas evoke 

a colonial atmosphere with dark wood panelling 

and lavish furniture. Itineraries include additional 

visits not offered on other Nile programmes. 

The Hadeel can also moor on islands in the 

Nile for refreshments and relaxation, meaning 

it can offer a range of enjoyable extras to a 

typical Nile cruise. The seven night itineraries 

are extremely relaxing. 

PRESIDENTIAL NILE CRUISES 

The Presidential Nile cruise ships are among 

the larger boats travelling between Luxor and 

Aswan, often catering for slightly bigger groups 

than the smaller boats. Standards of comfort 

and service are good but not luxurious, 

however they are perfectly adequate and offer 

great value. The cabins are comfortable and 

spacious, and all are air-conditioned with a good 

sized window. Each boat has a sizeable sun deck 

with a small pool area. You can do three, four, 

six or seven night trips on the Presidential boats. 

Sanctuary M/S Nile Adventurer 

M/S Sonesta Star Goddess 

Mövenpick M/S Royal Lily 

SANCTUARY M/S NILE 

ADVENTURER 

With only 32 cabins, the Sanctuary M/S Nile 

Adventurer offers an extra sense of space which 

really contributes to the relaxing atmosphere on 

board. The boat was completely renovated in 

2009, and has all the comforts you would 

expect. The Nile Adventurer has private docking 

areas in Luxor and Aswan, meaning that the 

boat is not moored alongside other vessels. 

Itineraries are of three or four night duration. 

M/S SONESTA MOON AND 

STAR GODDESS 

The Moon and Star Goddess boats both offer 

excellent facilities and standards of service. 

The Star Goddess is a smaller, more modern 

boat with just 33 cabins, while the Moon 

Goddess offers a more traditional style, with 

39 cabins. Cabins on both are large and very 

comfortable, boasting a private balcony and 

large bathroom. Itineraries are of three or four 

night duration. 

MÖVENPICK M/S ROYAL LILY 

AND ROYAL LOTUS 

The Lily and Lotus were launched towards the 

end of 2007. There are 56 cabins and four 

suites, all with air-conditioning, TV and en suite 

bathrooms. The salon decks with panoramic 

windows are equipped with a lounge and bar, 

while the sun decks each have a swimming pool 

and heated whirlpool, as well as a canopied area 

for shelter. The Mövenpick boats offer trips of 

three and four night duration. 

Om Kolthoum Dahabiyya 

Oberoi Zahra 

M/S Tiyi 

OM KOLTHOUM DAHABIYYA 

Named after a famous Egyptian singer, the Om 

Kolthoum Dahabiyya offers eight comfortable, 

well-equipped cabins. There is a sun deck with 

a small Jacuzzi for relaxation and contemporary 

decor throughout. This is a good choice for 

those who prefer a more modern cruise. 

Itineraries are a relaxed seven nights. 

OBEROI ZAHRA 

The Oberoi Zahra sets the standards in luxury 

for those cruising the Nile. The 25 suites are 

tastefully appointed, their large windows offering 

panoramic views of the Nile. The restaurant 

offers a daily changing menu, while the spa 

opens regularly to leave its visitors pampered 

and relaxed. The seven night itinerary 

incorporates visits to all the major sites. 

M/S TUYA AND TIYI 

The M/S Tuya and Tiyi offer a great value way 

to see the Nile. There are 60 cabins on board, 

each of a decent size, and well equipped with 

all necessary amenities. There is a pool and 

Jacuzzi on the sun deck, perfect for relaxing 

in-between sightseeing. The Tuya and Tiyi each 

offer three and four night itineraries. 


Kiosk of Kertassi, Kalabsha Temple, Lake Nasser 

Lake Nasser 

Formed behind the massive High Dam at Aswan, 

Lake Nasser is the world’s largest reservoir, 

stretching almost 500 kilometres to the south. 

The ancient temples of Abu Simbel were 

famously moved, block-by-block, out of the 

reaches of the rising waters, as were many smaller 

examples now on the lake shore. Not as grand as 

the likes of Karnak, their setting is a large part of 

their appeal, framed by the shimmering lake and 

the vast desert beyond. Cruising here is one of 

the few hidden treasures left in Egypt – just a few 

boats sail the lake, so you can enjoy the stunning 

scenery in peace. 

Column at Kalabsha Temple, Lake Nasser 

Fishermen, Lake Nasser 

24 

M/S Kasr Ibrim 

M/S KASR IBRIM 

One of only eight boats cruising on Lake Nasser, 

the Kasr Ibrim is an art deco masterpiece, 

recreating the look of a 1920s paddle steamer. 

Curved wooden furniture, cream decor and 

period fittings complement a wonderful large sun 

deck, with a good sized pool and steps to 

different deck levels, including a large restaurant 

and bar deck. The cabins are not especially large 

but are extremely comfortable and well designed, 

with each boasting a private balcony. These 

touches are important, as there is plenty of time 

to relax and watch the scenery go by.

Entrance to Abu Simbel temple 

Sun deck, Mövenpick M/S Prince Abbas 

MÖVENPICK M/S PRINCE ABBAS 

The Mövenpick Prince Abbas has 65 tastefully 

decorated and spacious cabins and en suite 

modern bathrooms, offering guests every home 

comfort. Gym equipment, a refreshing plunge 

pool and a heated Jacuzzi are located on the 

spacious sun deck. The boat is a good value 

option on Lake Nasser and includes sightseeing of 

all the main temples along the banks of the lake. 

Abu Simbel 

The most famous of the rescued temples of Lake 

Nasser are those at Abu Simbel. They were built 

by Ramses the Great on the edge of his empire 

to impress his might and power upon all those 

entering Egypt. Huge statues of this pharaoh form 

the façade of the larger of the two temples and 

have become one of Egypt’s iconic images. If you 

have the time, one of the best ways to appreciate 

them is to arrive by boat on a Lake Nasser cruise. 

For those on a tighter schedule it is possible to 

visit as a day trip from Aswan, flying in and out 

for a tour of the temples. 

Nubian man, Abu Simbel 

Wadi El-Seboua, on the shores of Lake Nasser 

Cruising on Lake Nasser with Abu Simbel in the background 


Fish and coral, Red Sea 

The Red Sea 

It is easy to incorporate a stay at the Red Sea 

into your Egyptian itinerary. This is a good way to 

unwind at the end of a long trip packed with 

sightseeing. From Luxor you can travel overland 

to the mainland Red Sea coast, or catch a flight 

to Sharm El Sheikh. There are miles of wonderful 

coastline, from the developed shores around 

Sharm El Sheikh to the exclusive resorts on the 

mainland coastline, north and south of Hurghada. 

As well as the chance to relax on a beach, time 

can also be spent snorkelling and diving on the 

spectacular coral reefs or exploring nearby sights. 

Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh, near Hurghada 

26 

Hurghada and El Quseir 

Hurghada and El Quseir are both within a few 

hours drive of each other on the western Red 

Sea coast. The reefs in this area are among the 

most pristine to be found in the Red Sea, some 

of them accessible from the shore, and ideal for 

snorkelling. Hurghada is a popular resort but has 

a few secluded accommodation options with 

private beaches. El Quseir is a smaller place, 

relatively unspoilt by tourism and retaining a 

charm all of its own. A refreshing alternative to 

some of Egypt’s more well known beach resorts, 

it is perfect for those who want to combine 

relaxation and tranquility with some of the best 

diving in the Red Sea. 

THE OBEROI SAHL HASHEESH, 

NEAR HURGHADA 

The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh was the first luxury 

suite-only resort to open on the Red Sea coast. 

It is an exclusive and sophisticated haven, set on 

a private white sand beach with panoramic views 

of the sea. The 102 suites nestle in 20 hectares 

of perfectly maintained grounds, and the 

architectural style includes arches, domes and 

columns. Each suite has a private walled courtyard 

to guarantee privacy and peace, while upgrades 

are available for suites with their own pools. 

Dining and recreational facilities are superb and 

the service is impeccable. This is one of the best 

hotels in the country. 

Radisson Blu Resort, El Quseir 

RADISSON BLU RESORT, 

EL QUSEIR 

A good value choice in the El Quseir area, the 

Radisson Blu is built in a traditional style, reflecting 

local architectural methods and boasting some 

attractive interior design. From the two main à la 

carte restaurants to the sheesha bar and the 

striking lobby, a modern but authentic Middle 

Eastern look predominates, with stylish furnishings 

and numerous Moorish archways. All of the 250 

rooms are light and comfortable, with modern 

en suite bathrooms and a spacious veranda with 

views out to the Red Sea. It is not easy to swim 

direct from the beach due to the abundance of 

coral, so there is a jetty from which to enter the 

sea, where the snorkelling is excellent. As well 

as two large pools, the Radisson Blu has a 

wonderful Ayurvedic spa, including four beautiful 

massage rooms and a lovely relaxation area with 

a small pool.

Patterned door, El Quseir 

St Catherine’s Monastery 

Sharm El Sheikh 

For many years, Sharm El Sheikh, or just Sharm 

as it is more commonly known, has been a 

magnet for visitors seeking beaches and fantastic 

diving and snorkelling. As a result, the town itself 

is very much geared towards the mass market, 

with the full array of shops, restaurants and 

nightclubs. However, many of the hotels are 

self-contained resorts and you need never 

experience downtown Sharm should you not 

want to. Staying here gives you access to places 

of interest nearby, including Mount Sinai and 

St Catherine’s Monastery. 

FOUR SEASONS RESORT, 

SHARM EL SHEIKH 

Set amid lush landscaping and designed to 

resemble a hillside village, the Four Seasons 

Resort has beautiful courtyards and cooling 

swimming pools connected by shady paths. 

All 136 rooms are decorated in wonderful 

Arabesque style with superb furnishings, and 

many have views over the Red Sea. Guests can 

expect the high standards of service that are the 

hallmark of Four Seasons hotels, along with 

excellent recreational facilities. The location of 

the hotel is also perfect, within easy reach of the 

restaurants, shops and dive centres in the heart 

of Sharm, but far enough away to remain quiet 

and exclusive. 

Le Méridien Dahab Resort 

St Catherine’s Monastery 

and Mount Sinai 

At the heart of the Sinai Peninsula is Mount Sinai, 

where the Ten Commandments were revealed 

to Moses, overlooking the valley where he 

encountered the Burning Bush. On this site in 

337 AD, the Byzantine Empress Helena founded a 

monastery. The number of monks soon dwindled, 

until there was a timely boost when the remains 

of St Catherine, an early Christian martyr, were 

found nearby. Today the monastery is open to 

visitors who can admire the 6th century Church 

of St Catherine, the medieval monks’ quarters 

which are still used in the present day, and a 

shrub reputedly descended from the Burning 

Bush. Trekking up Mount Sinai is best done in the 

early hours of the morning, so that you can still 

get to the monastery during the morning opening 

times. You will also get wonderful views as the 

sun comes up over the Sinai mountains. 

Four Seasons Resort, Sharm El Sheikh 

Bedouin woman, Sinai Peninsula 

Dahab 

Dahab is one of the most relaxed towns in Egypt, 

and is easily accessed from Sharm El Sheikh 

airport. Located on the Red Sea coast, it is 

surrounded by mountains and stretches of beach. 

Wind and waves have drawn the windsurfing 

community here and they have perpetuated the 

laid-back atmosphere that grew in the town 

during the Sixties. A spell in Dahab offers the 

chance to unwind and get off the tourist trail a 

bit, whilst still being able to snorkel on the reefs 

and visit the inland sights of the Sinai Peninsula. 

LE MÉRIDIEN DAHAB RESORT 

Le Méridien Dahab Resort has 182 spacious 

guestrooms and suites, excellent facilities and 

spectacular sea views. The rooms have been 

carefully designed so that light fills the rooms in 

the mornings and the beds look directly out to 

the Red Sea. Particularly attractive are the infinity 

pool and the central areas of the hotel, which 

enjoy unbroken views over the water. 


Cairo 

Luxor 

Edfu 

Aswan 

Kom Ombo 

Kom Ombo 

Tailoring your trip 

The itineraries shown are designed to give you a 

flavour of what is possible, and are routes that 

work particularly well. We can use these as a 

basis to plan your trip or can design a completely 

different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. 

Please call one of our Egypt specialists to start 

planning your itinerary. 

Telephone: 01993 838 410 

Getting around 

Your trip to Egypt may include many types of 

transport. Private sightseeing and transfers will be 

in air-conditioned vehicles. For excursions in 

larger groups, such as those from Nile cruises, 

minibuses and coaches are used. A Nile cruise is 

a comfortable and convenient way to take in 

the sites along the Nile – see our guide on pages 

22-23. Given the size of the country, most 

people tend to take at least a couple of domestic 

flights as well. 

Islamic Cairo at night 

28 

When to go 

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 

✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ~ ~ ~ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ 

✓✓ The best time to travel. 

✓ A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of. 

~ Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year. 

✕ Travel is not recommended. 

Egypt is seen as a winter destination, with most 

visitors arriving between October and April. 

At this time of year, Cairo and Lower Egypt 

(the area towards the Mediterranean) are 

pleasantly cool, with average maximum 

temperatures in the low twenties Celsius. Upper 

Egypt, around Aswan and Luxor, tends to be a 

few degrees warmer, but still very pleasant. 

There may be some rain in Lower Egypt but it is 

light and sporadic. The summer season from May 

to September is hot, especially in Upper Egypt, 

where temperatures can hit 50C. The high 

temperatures are somewhat alleviated by very dry 

air and the air-conditioned vehicles and buildings. 

Combined with lower prices and far fewer 

visitors, this also makes summer a viable season 

for your trip – especially May and September, 

which are not nearly as hot as June, July and 

August. Please ask your specialist for further 

information about the best times to travel. 

Time difference: GMT+2 hour 

Flight time from UK: 5 hours 

Prices 

We offer trips to cater for a wide range of 

budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices 

for your trip to Egypt on our website, alternatively 

please call our specialists to discuss your plans. 

Highlights of Egypt 

A fabulous first trip to Egypt, this itinerary will 

introduce you to all the main highlights of the 

country, taking in Cairo, Aswan and Luxor and still 

including some relaxation time on your Nile cruise. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Fly from the UK and spend three 

nights in Cairo. 

Visit the pyramid fields of Giza, 

Saqqara and Dashur. 

Discover the mosques of Islamic 

Cairo before heading to the 

Egyptian Museum. 

Fly from Cairo to Luxor and board 

your Nile cruise. In the afternoon, 

visit the Karnak and Luxor Temples. 

Explore the Valley of the Kings and 

other sites on the west bank of the 

Nile. The boat then begins its cruise 

to the south. 

Visit Edfu Temple in the morning 

before the boat sails on to Kom 

Ombo, where you visit the Temple 

of Sobek and Haroeris. 

The boat moves on to Aswan, where 

you visit the Temple of Philae and 

the Aswan High Dam. 

Disembark the boat and fly from 

Aswan back to Cairo and from Cairo 

back to the UK. 

Stay longer 

The itinerary can be extended with extra nights 

in Luxor and Aswan, so that you can explore 

the sites in more detail and include a trip to 

Abu Simbel. 

Abu Simbel

Suggested itineraries 

Alexandria 

El Alamein 

Alexandria 

Cairo 

Cairo 

Cairo 

Siwa 

Bahariya 

Farafra 

Hurghada 

Dakhla 

Kharga 

Luxor 

Edfu 

Luxor 

Kom Ombo 

Edfu 

Luxor 

Kom Ombo 

Aswan 

Aswan 

Abu Simbel 


This trip concentrates on some of Egypt’s lesserknown 

sites, the oases of the Western Desert. 

The circuit offers a compelling insight into life in 

this part of Egypt and provides a contrast to the 

Ancient Egyptian sites along the Nile. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Days 5-6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Fly from the UK to Cairo, where 

you spend two nights. 

Visit the pyramid complexes of Giza, 


Travel to Alexandria for a one 

night stay. 

Visit El Alamein on your way to Siwa, 

a long journey across the desert. 

Explore Siwa, Shali Fort, the salt lakes 

and hot springs around this oasis. 

Travel from Siwa to Bahariya, passing 

through the Western Desert. 

Spend time in Bahariya before 

continuing to Farafra, passing through 

the area known as the White Desert. 

Continue to Dakhla, where you visit 

archaeological sites in the area. 

From Dakhla continue to Kharga, the 

last oasis in the desert circuit. 

Continue to Luxor, where you stay 

for three nights. 

Visit Karnak and Luxor Temples. 

Explore the sites of the west bank of 

the Nile, including the Valley of the 

Kings and Hatchepsut’s Temple. 

Fly from Luxor to Cairo and from 

Cairo to the UK. 

Stay longer 

You could continue your exploration of Ancient 

Egypt by taking a Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan, 

visiting more of the archaeological sites. 

Grand Tour of Egypt 

Combining a Nile cruise and a Lake Nasser cruise 

gives you plenty of scope to explore all the 

Ancient Egyptian sites as well as time to relax. 

The days in Cairo and Alexandria will introduce 

you to these great cities, with their interesting 

pasts and fascinating presents. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Fly from the UK to Cairo, where 

you spend four nights. 

Explore the pyramid fields of Giza, 


Visit the Egyptian Museum and 

Islamic Cairo. 

Explore Coptic Cairo with your 

tour guide. 

Travel to Alexandria, where you 

spend two nights. 

Spend the day visiting the sights 

of Alexandria. 

Return to Cairo and fly to Luxor, 

where you join your Nile cruise. 

Visit Karnak and Luxor Temples. 

Tour the West Bank, including the 

Valley of the Kings. 

Visit the Temple of Horus in Edfu. 

Continue to Kom Ombo and visit 

the Temple of Sobek and Haroeris. 

Sail to Aswan. 

Visit the Temple of Philae and the 

Aswan High Dam. 

Join your Lake Nasser cruise and visit 

Kalabsha Temple. 

Full day of cruising to Wadi El 

Seboua. 

Visit lakeside temples and cross the 

Tropic of Cancer. 

Sail to Abu Simbel and visit the 

temples there. 

Pyramids, Nile and Beach 

This itinerary offers a great introduction to Egypt, 

going to all the major archaeological sites and the 

bustling capital, Cairo. At the end of the trip you 

have the opportunity to relax beside the Red Sea. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Days 9-10 

Day 11 

Fly from the UK to Cairo, where you 

spend three nights. 

Visit the pyramids of Giza, Dashur 

and Saqqara. 

Explore the packed galleries of the 

Egyptian Museum in central Cairo. 

Fly from Cairo to Aswan. 

Visit the Temple of Philae and the 

Aswan High Dam. 

Travel from Aswan to Luxor, 

stopping to visit the temples of Kom 

Ombo and Edfu on your way. 

Visit the sites of the west bank of the 

Nile, such as the Valley of the Kings 

and Hatchepsut’s Temple. 

Explore the temples of Luxor and 

Karnak, before travelling to the Red 

Sea coast. 

Spend your time snorkelling and 

relaxing by the sea. 

Travel from your Red Sea hotel to 

the airport, from where you fly to 

Cairo. From Cairo fly back to the UK. 

Stay longer 

The trip could be extended with extra nights in 

Aswan and Luxor, so that you can include more 

of the Ancient Egyptian sites, or with extra nights 

at the Red Sea if you wish to spend more time 

snorkelling and diving on the coral reefs. 

Day 15 

Day 16 

Day 17 

Disembark the cruise and fly from 

Abu Simbel to Aswan. 

A day to explore Aswan or relax at 

your hotel. 

Fly from Aswan to Cairo and from 

Cairo to the UK. 

Feluccas on the Nile, near Luxor 


Jordan 

The rose city of Petra has drawn 

visitors to Jordan ever since its secret 

location was discovered. It is rightfully 

considered to be one of the ‘must-see’ sites of 

the region, if not the world. The country is 

a microcosm of Middle Eastern history. 

The Nabateans, biblical characters, Greek 

and Roman city-builders, Arab invaders 

and Crusader armies have all played out 

their roles across a dramatic landscape of 

red sandstone canyons, desert expanses and 

salt-laden waters. Each has left their mark 

in churches bursting with mosaics, 

colonnaded streets and fortresses which still 

seem impregnable today. More recently, 

great efforts by the Royal Society for the 

Conservation of Nature (RSCN) have 

created beautiful reserves. These are home 

to rare fauna such as the Arabian oryx, 

and stunning scenery, which can be 

explored by following one of the many 

hiking trails. In the Dead Sea, the Gulf of 

Aqaba and the natural hot springs of Ma’in, 

Jordan has three great destinations for 

unwinding at the end of a trip, whether 

you want to relax in a spa or to dive the 

reefs of the Red Sea. 

30

Audley in Jordan 

4 

1 

5 

2 

Jordan is a wonderfully varied destination, 

offering a comfortable introduction to the 

Middle East region. The geography of the 

country is such that all the sights combine 

easily into logical itineraries, making Jordan a 

simple place to visit. It is possible to spend 

a week focussing on Petra and the key 

highlights, or to take a longer trip to include 

all the major archaeological sites, spending 

time walking in the nature reserves and 

leaving a few days to unwind at Aqaba, on 

the Red Sea or by the Dead Sea. We use 

private drivers who will usually accompany 

you throughout the trip, and local guides at 

Petra and Jerash. There are good transport 

links with Egypt, Lebanon, Syria and Jerusalem 

if you wish to extend your trip further into 

the region. 

Accommodation 

1 Petra 

Without doubt the main draw 

for visitors to Jordan, Petra has 

the power to astound with the 

majesty of its monuments and 

the natural beauty of its 

surroundings. 

3 

4 The Dead Sea 

The Dead Sea offers the 

opportunity for relaxation at the 

end of a Jordan trip, as well as 

the novelty of floating in the 

salty water. 

5 Crusade-era castles 

Ajloun, Kerak and Shawbak 

are dotted across the Jordanian 

landscape, testament to it’s 

Crusader history. 

Jerash’s oval plaza 

Jordan’s nature reserves 

The reserves established by 

the Royal Society for the 

Conservation of Nature provide 

protection for endangered flora 

and fauna, as well as a livelihood 

for local communities. 

With one or two exceptions, there is little 

in the way of traditional, characterful 

accommodation in Jordan. Most of the 

hotels we use are part of international chains, 

which deliver good comfort and service, if in 

a somewhat uniform style. Most of these 

hotels have made at least some efforts to 

reflect local design, although in a modern 

setting. When visiting the nature reserves, 

accommodation varies in style and size but 

tends to be quite basic. Some of the reserves 

have chalet rooms, others have tented camps 

and one has both a simple guesthouse and 

an ecolodge. In all instances, the food at the 

reserves is locally sourced and freshly 

prepared, and employees are all from the 

local villages and towns. 

The Dead Sea 

Find out more 

2 Jerash 

A Roman town to the north of 

the capital, Jerash’s oval plaza 

sets the site apart from other 

Roman ruins in the region. 

3 Wadi Rum 

One of the Middle East’s most 

spectacular landscapes, Wadi 

Rum is a desert of red sand, 

punctuated by weathered 

rock formations. 

Wadi Rum 


information about travel in Jordan, please 

see pages 44-45. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Jordan 


Jordan 31

Roman Theatre, Amman 

Amman 

Jordan’s capital is a bustling, modern city, originally 

set on seven hills. Many of its buildings are only a 

few decades old, with some exceptions dating 

from the 1920s to the 1940s, demonstrating the 

styles which were in vogue during the mandate 

era. Some remnants of older history are still 

visible, such as the Roman theatre around which 

the downtown area grew. On a hill is the Citadel, 

along with a patchwork of Roman, Byzantine and 

Umayyad ruins. The Citadel is also the home of 

the Jordanian Archaeological Museum. This has 

displays about the Dead Sea Scrolls and other 

finds, some dating to prehistory, though many 

have been relocated to the new Jordan Museum 

in downtown Amman. Other museums and 

galleries abound, including the Royal Automobile 

Museum, established by King Abdullah II. 

Amman Citadel 

Four Seasons Hotel, Amman 

32 

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL, AMMAN 

Located in the upmarket diplomatic district of 

Amman, the Four Seasons has brought its high 

standard of exclusive, luxury accommodation to 

the capital. The 192 rooms and suites blend 

classic and contemporary design, with dark woods 

and rich fabrics. Local flavour is introduced in the 

Seasons restaurant and the hotel also has Italian 

and Asian restaurants as well as several bars. 

AL QASR METROPOLE, AMMAN 

This hotel has a good location in the Shmeissani 

district of Amman, and offers a comfortable, 

practical and inexpensive place to stay. The 66 

rooms are subtly decorated yet have all the 

amenities you would need during a short stay in 

the capital. What makes the hotel a strong option 

for those who visit is its excellent Vinaigrette 

restaurant on the top floor, serving Amman’s 

best sushi, and the Trattoria, which offers a 

generous breakfast.

Ajloun Castle 

Chariot driver taking part in re-enactment, Jerash 

Oval Plaza, Jerash 

KEMPINSKI AMMAN, AMMAN 

One of the newest hotels in Amman, the 

Kempinski has a very striking, modern design, 

with a curved sandstone and glass exterior. The 

rooms are furnished in a contemporary European 

style, with bathrooms finished in marble. The 

array of facilities available at the Kempinski is 

superb. There are four different restaurants, 

plus an entertainment centre, as well as a spa 

and gym. 

Mosaic, Jerash 

Jerash and the north 

Jerash was a member of the Decapolis, a Graeco- 

Roman confederation of the ten leading cities in 

an area now straddling Jordan and Syria. Today it 

is one of the best-preserved classical cities in the 

region. A colonnaded oval plaza is the highlight of 

the site, but there are also a theatre and Roman 

streets to be seen. There are daily chariot race 

re-enactments, which can be great fun for families. 

In the very north of Jordan you will find the site 

of Umm Qais, another of the Decapolis cities. 

Although smaller than Jerash, it has a very 

atmospheric setting looking over the Sea of 

Galilee and the Jordan Valley. The north of Jordan 

as a whole is very pretty, and with significant 

rainfall in the winter and spring, the countryside 

blooms with lush grassland and spring flowers. 

Ajloun Castle 

Ajloun Castle has a commanding position 

overlooking the nearby town. The castle is 

remarkably well preserved and demonstrates 

Islamic military architecture at its best. Built during 

the 12th and 13th centuries, it was an important 

staging post on the road between Damascus and 

Cairo. The castle once had seven towers and a 

15 metre deep moat, and is a maze of interlinking 

rooms and tunnels that are interesting to explore. 

There are also fabulous views from here over the 

surrounding countryside. 

Columns, Jerash 

Qasr Azraq 

The Desert Castles 

Heading east from Amman into the desert, 

you come to a series of fortified buildings, most 

of which were actually Umayyad hunting lodges. 

These buildings date to the 7th and 8th centuries 

AD, but some of the foundations have Roman 

origins. The ‘castles’ can easily be visited from 

Amman during an afternoon, or you could take 

the whole day and spend some time in Jordan’s 

nature reserves. The two most popular castles 

are Qasr Al-Amra and Qasr Azraq. Amra is an 

Umayyad bathhouse, once part of a much larger 

complex, and has beautiful frescoes which, 

unusually for an Islamic building, show the human 

form. Azraq, originally a fort on the old Roman 

border, was later used by the Byzantines and 

then by a succession of Islamic dynasties, and 

finally by Lawrence of Arabia, who made this 

his headquarters. 

www.audleytravel.com/jordan ● 01993 838 415 ● Jordan 33

The Kings’ Highway 

For centuries the Kings’ Highway was the 

principal route for traders travelling between 

Arabia and the Levant. It hugs the edge of the 

Great Rift Valley, with the Dead Sea filling the 

bottom of this huge split in the earth. The 

highway crosses countless river beds and the 

availability of water made this a key trade route. 

These days, most heavy traffic takes the Desert 

Highway, leaving the winding switchbacks, 

dramatic vistas, castles and churches to the 

intrepid visitor. Some of the sights of the Kings’ 

Highway can be visited on a drive between 

Amman and Petra but a return journey on the 

same route may be necessary to visit them all. 

Kings’ Highway at Wadi Mujib 

Mount Nebo 

Said to be the spot from which Moses viewed 

the Holy Land and where tradition has it he 

was later buried, Mount Nebo is an important 

place for Christian pilgrimage. A church has 

existed on this site since 393 AD and although 

it has been much altered and restored since 

then, it still houses some mosaics which are 

around 1,500 years old. Mount Nebo is the 

perfect place to stop on the Kings’ Highway for 

a view over the Holy Land. On clear days, the 

towns of Jericho and Jerusalem can be made 

out in the distance, across the Jordan Valley 

and the Dead Sea. 

Holy Land mosaic, Madaba 

Mount Nebo 

Madaba 

Madaba, a town at the northern end of the 

Kings’ Highway, has a strong Christian heritage, 

with numerous churches dotted around its 

quiet, charming streets. The town is best known 

for the fine examples of Byzantine-era mosaics, 

the most famous of which is a map from the 

6th century depicting the Holy Land. It is easily 

explored on a walking tour, taking in all the 

churches and the archaeological park, which is 

an open-air museum. 

Mukawir 

A short drive off the Kings’ Highway, on a lonely 

pinnacle overlooking the Dead Sea, is the castle 

of Mukawir. It was the site of Herod’s Palace, 

where Salome asked for the head of John the 

Baptist as a reward for her dancing, and also a 

centre of resistance to Rome during the First 

Jewish Revolt. After the steep climb up to the 

castle you are rewarded with fantastic views 

over the surrounding hills. The outline of the 

camps and even the siege ramp built by the 

Romans to capture Mukawir can still be seen. 

34

Jordanian man by the Kings’ Highway 

Kerak Castle 

As you approach Kerack Castle, which towers 

over the modern town, it is immediately 

obvious why all the powers involved in the 

Crusades wanted control of this bastion. Kerak 

was established in the 12th century and 

remained in Crusader hands for just forty years. 

Its already excellent defensive features were 

further refined by the Mamluks, with the 

addition of a lower courtyard and a deeper 

moat. The castle is certainly a highlight of a trip 

along the Kings’ Highway with a number of 

interior halls and chambers to explore. 

Shobak Castle 

Shawbak Castle 

With fewer visitors than Kerak and still in need 

of restoration, Shawbak is in some ways a 

more rewarding stop on the Kings’ Highway. It 

is more of an adventure to explore, wandering 

around ornately decorated towers, past 

crumbling churches and underneath vaulted 

passageways. The truly intrepid, equipped with 

a torch, might care to descend the 350 steps 

under the castle to the well that allowed the 

Crusaders to hold out for two years before it 

fell to Saladin in 1189 AD. 

Kerak Castle 

Lot’s Cave 

Another site of biblical renown, Lot’s Cave is 

where the prophet reputedly sheltered following 

the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. 

Found at the southern end of the Dead Sea, 

the artefacts recovered from the site are linked 

to various different periods of history and the 

site itself is worth a visit for its dramatic location. 

Accessed by 300 steps, the cave is protected 

by the remains of a church, which houses five 

restored mosaics dating to the 6th century AD. 

It was originally designed so that Jewish and 

Muslim pilgrims could also enter the cave 

without needing to pass through the church 

threshold. The views over the town, the 

surrounding countryside and to the Dead Sea 

are breathtaking from here. 


The Treasury at night, Petra 

Petra 

No matter how many times you have seen 

Petra on television or in films, nothing prepares 

you for the first time you exit the tiny cleft of 

the Siq, the narrow canyon leading into the city, 

to be confronted by the enormous splendour 

of the Treasury Tomb. Built by the Nabateans, 

who grew rich through their control of the 

frankincense trade routes through Arabia, 

Petra fell into obscurity about 1,000 years ago, 

with its existence and location kept a closelyguarded 

secret by the local Bedouin. In 1812, 

Johann Ludwig Burckhardt tricked his way into 

the site, paving the way for generations of 

awestruck visitors. 

The Monastery, Petra 

36 

Visiting the site 

Petra merits two full days (and a three night 

stay), to give you enough time to see the 

central areas of the site and also explore 

some of the more remote areas such as the 

Monastery, the High Place of Sacrifice and 

Aaron’s Tomb. If you are short on time, you 

could stay just two nights in Petra, with one 

full and long day to be spent in the site, 

although it is possible that you will be so 

entranced that you will want to return for a 

second visit in the future. Petra Archaeological 

Park is spread over 264 square kilometres, so 

there is a fair amount of walking to be done 

and you will need to pack sturdy walking 

shoes and take plenty of water with you. 

There is no particularly quiet time of year or 

day to visit Petra. The site attracts thousands 

of visitors each year and is busy even in the 

summer months, which are extremely hot in 

Jordan. By starting early in the day, or taking 

an alternative route into the site, we can help 

you avoid the largest of the crowds. 

The Treasury and the Monastery 

The Treasury and the Monastery are two 

of Petra’s most iconic structures. The Treasury 

is the first monument that you encounter 

having passed along the Siq, a winding, 

The High Place of Sacrifice, Petra 

narrow gorge which forms the gateway to 

the site. What is remarkable about the 

Treasury is that it was created in situ, its 

towering structure hewn from the sandstone 

rock, and therefore required no support or 

foundations. The carvings on the Treasury’s 

façade show Nabatean, Greek and Egyptian 

gods, as well as lions and eagles. The building 

is thought to date to the 1st century BC. 

The Monastery lies at the other end of the 

site. Although less ornate than the Treasury, 

its location in a relatively quiet part of Petra 

and the spectacular views make the long 

walk up here well worth the effort. You can 

actually walk right up above the Monastery 

for an even closer look at the urn carving 

which marks the top of the structure, but 

this is only advised for those who have a 

head for heights.

Learning to cook Jordanian style, Petra kitchen 

Travelling along the Siq near the Treasury, Petra 

PETRA MARRIOTT, PETRA 

Located a few kilometres away from Petra, the 

Marriott occupies an enviable spot overlooking 

the vast canyons that carve through the local 

sandstone. The rooms are modern and 

comfortable and the hotel features three 

restaurants offering different cuisines. The biggest 

draw of the hotel is the amazing view out 

towards Petra, which is very hard to beat. 

BEIT ZAMAN, PETRA 

Situated two kilometres from Petra in the 

neighbouring village of Wadi Musa, Beit Zaman 

offers good value. It is a carefully restored 19thcentury 

village designed to afford guests a high 

level of comfort after a busy day’s sightseeing. 

The very nature of the hotel's history means that 

it abounds with character. Each of the 129 rooms 

and suites possess much of the original stonework, 

while modern touches give them a comfortable 

finish. The open areas are extremely pleasant, the 

highlight of which is a covered swimming pool. 

Petra Marriott Hotel, Petra 

MÖVENPICK RESORT, PETRA 

Located about one minute’s walk from the 

entrance to Petra, the Mövenpick is built in the 

Islamic style, featuring arches, intricate tile-work 

and delicate wooden mashrabiya screens. The 

rooms are more modern and European in style, 

but are quite large and offer great comfort. A 

wonderful roof garden provides the perfect place 

to watch the sun set over the sandstone hills. 

Little Petra 

Little Petra 

Siq al-Barid, or Little Petra as it has become 

known, is on the edge of the main site. Although 

the Nabatean buildings, which have been carved 

into the rock, are a little smaller and less 

impressive than those in Petra proper, the site 

has a certain charm for its peacefulness, as not so 

many visitors venture here. The site is also more 

concentrated with very few gaps in between the 

various monuments, dwellings, meeting rooms 

and tombs. Little Petra also offers an alternative 

way into the main site if you want a more active, 

adventurous route. 

Petra Kitchen 

Petra Kitchen is a fun and interesting way to 

spend one of your evenings in Petra, giving you 

the opportunity to learn to cook Jordanian dishes 

and more importantly perhaps, to meet local 

people. Over the course of a couple of hours you 

will be taught by local cooks and will prepare a 

traditional meal, which is of course yours to eat 

later in the evening. You’ll also be given a booklet 

of Jordanian recipes so you can recreate your 

favourite dishes at home. 

Beit Zaman, Petra 

Mövenpick Resort, Petra 


Wadi Rum 

Wadi Rum 

Traders crossed this remarkable ancient landscape 

long before modern visitors such as Lawrence of 

Arabia. Wadi Rum is one of the region’s most 

picturesque desert landscapes, unique for its red 

sandstone geology. Rocky outcrops tower over 

the surrounding desert, and more unusual 

geological features are not hard to find, including 

several rock bridges, weathered into their form 

over the centuries. In the canyons, which provide 

some respite from the powerful sun, you will find 

inscriptions and carvings by the Thamudic people, 

who came to Wadi Rum from Arabia in the first 

millennium BC. Staying a night in Wadi Rum is a 

special experience. Isolated from the lights and 

noise of civilisation, it is the perfect place to 

unwind and take in the star-filled desert skies. 

WADI RUM CAMP, WADI RUM 

This small camps offers a more intimate 

alternative to the larger camps in the area. The 

tents are pitched and taken down as required, 

with a maximum of six tents on any one night. 

There are fixed, shared bathroom facilities, with 

solar panels providing the power for hot water 

showers. In the evenings a spread of traditional 

Bedouin dishes are prepared for you. 

The Bedouin & 

Lawrence of Arabia 

The Bedouin are an Arab people, traditionally 

nomadic or semi-nomadic communities who 

live in the deserts of the Middle East. Though 

most Bedouin have now abandoned their 

nomadic lifestyles, there are still some tribes 

which cling to their traditions in the region, 

and live in black goat-hair tents in places like 

Wadi Rum. Tribes continue to play an 

important role in society, and in Wadi Rum 

the major tribe is the Huweitat, who claim 

descent from the Prophet Mohammed. 

There are also a couple of other smaller 

clans, who came originally from the Arabian 

Peninsula. The links between Wadi Rum 

and Lawrence of Arabia are somewhat 

exaggerated these days for the purposes of 

tourism, but the tribes of this area did play 

an important role in the Arab Revolt against 

the Ottoman Empire of 1917, a role which 

continues to be a source of great pride for 

today’s Bedouin. There are sites within Wadi 

Rum which Lawrence definitely did visit and 

for more information about his experiences 

in the area we would recommend reading 

his autobiographical account, Seven Pillars 

of Wisdom. 

Camp, Wadi Rum 

Wadi Rum 

38

Jordan’s nature reserves 

Wadi Dana 

The Royal Society for the Conservation of 

Nature (RSCN) was founded in 1966, 

with its main aim being to protect Jordan’s 

natural heritage. The organisation now has a 

wide-ranging remit and focuses not only on 

the preservation of the country’s nature and 

landscapes, but also on the socio-economic 

development of rural communities. 

The RSCN has established six nature reserves, 

at Dana, Mujib, Ajloun, Dibeen, Shaumari and 

Azraq, all with different landscapes, wildlife 

and geology – four of them are described in 

detail here. It is possible to stay at the reserves 

and enjoy activities such as walking and 

birdwatching. To put their work into context, 

the RSCN has also created two visitor centres, 

one near the Dead Sea (the Dead Sea 

Panoramic Complex) and one in Amman 

(the Wild Jordan Centre). 

The nature reserves 

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve 

This reserve was created to provide a 

protected area for the Arabian oryx, a white 

antelope, which is one of the most 

endangered animals in the world. It became 

extinct in the wild in the early 1970s but 

thanks to the breeding programme at 

Shaumari and other reserves in the Arab 

World, the global population is now estimated 

at about 7,000. Visitors to the reserve may 

also spot other desert animals such as gazelles, 

ostrich and Persian onagers. 

Ajloun Forest Reserve 

In existence since 1988, Ajloun Forest 

Reserve is located in northwest Jordan and 

has 13 square kilometres of open woodland. 

Common trees in the forest include 

evergreen oak, pine, carob, wild strawberry 

and wild pistachio, an impressive biodiversity 

which the reserve aims to preserve. In spring, 

the forest floor is carpeted with flowers, 

including rare and beautiful orchids, anemones 

and rock roses. 

Azraq Wetland Reserve 

The Azraq Wetlands are located to the east 

of Amman. Threatened by the delicate state 

of the water supply in the region, the wetlands 

have reduced in size since the establishment of 

the reserve in 1978, with the water now being 

supplied artificially. The reserve is a good spot 

for birdwatching, especially for migratory 

species, which have returned in recent years 

and include the hoopoe lark, Cetti’s warbler, 

the desert finch and the marsh harrier. 

Arabian oryx 

Dana Nature Reserve 

Dana Nature Reserve covers a system of 

wadis running down to Wadi Araba just north 

of Petra, and is home to wildlife, awe-inspiring 

landscapes, and thousands of years of history. 

Best explored on foot, there are a series of 

trails - some guided, some self-guided - which 

take in a variety of sights from canyon scenery 

to local villages and ancient copper mines. 

DANA GUESTHOUSE, 

DANA NATURE RESERVE 

Dana Guesthouse is one of two 

accommodation options within Dana Nature 

Reserve. With just nine rooms, this is simple 

accommodation, but the surroundings more 

than make up for this. The guesthouse looks 

over Wadi Dana, with spectacular views at 

sunset while the whole setting, in the midst of 

the Jordanian countryside, is extremely tranquil. 

FEYNAN ECOLODGE, DANA 

NATURE RESERVE 

Feynan Ecolodge, at the opposite end of the 

reserve, is a unique place to stay in Jordan, built 

in harmony with its surroundings and respecting 

the environment in general. Wonderfully 

remote and set amidst stark, rocky desert, the 

lodge has comfortable, spacious rooms and is 

cleverly designed to avoid impacting the 

ecology of the area. All materials used are 

locally sourced and power is generated by solar 

energy. In the evenings, the lodge is lit by 

candles and has a special atmosphere. 


Japanese Garden Beach, Tala Bay, Aqaba 

MÖVENPICK TALA BAY, AQABA 

Around 15 minutes by car from the centre of 

Aqaba, the Mövenpick Tala Bay offers good value 

and benefits from a great location on the beach. 

The hotel is less busy than those in the centre of 

the town, and offers better value. The rooms and 

public areas feel bright, modern and airy. With a 

number of pools, a decent beach and a wide 

range of restaurants and cafés to choose from, 

the Mövenpick is perfect for those wishing to 

relax after sightseeing or to explore Jordan’s 

Red Sea reefs. 

Herbs and spices for sale in Aqaba 

Mövenpick Tala Bay, Aqaba 

Aqaba and the Red Sea 

Aqaba’s principal draws are the snorkelling and 

diving on the Red Sea reefs and the warm 

temperatures during the autumn, winter and 

spring, compared to the rest of the country. 

As Jordan’s only port and the only resort area 

on the coast, it is very popular and can be very 

busy throughout the year. The hotels often host 

weddings, which give an insight into local 

traditions but can also be quite noisy affairs. If you 

wish to dive then this is the place to come, with 

the Tala Bay resort area offering a slightly quieter 

option to the central hotels. 

40 

Common lionfish, the Red Sea 

Kempinski Hotel, Aqaba 

KEMPINSKI AQABA 

Close to the centre of Aqaba, the Kempinski also 

has an attractive location on the beach. All rooms 

face the sea and have an elegant minimalist style. 

The Kempinski has a pool, access to a beach and 

a range of dining options, including a good 

seafood restaurant. It is an excellent choice for 

those wanting to relax by the sea after a busy 

trip in Jordan, but still be within reach of the 

town of Aqaba.

Greek Orthodox Church, Bethany Beyond the Jordan 

The Dead Sea 

Dead Sea salt Mövenpick Resort & Spa, The Dead Sea Evason Ma’in Hot Springs 

The Dead Sea 

For millennia, people have been coming to the 

Dead Sea, drawn by the medicinal qualities of 

the mineral-laden waters. The sea is also eerily 

beautiful, with crystalline formations on the 

shoreline surrounded by harsh, unforgiving cliffs. 

The lowest point on earth at 420 metres below 

sea level, temperatures and the humidity are 

always higher at the Dead Sea than elsewhere 

in Jordan. Swimming, or rather floating in the 

Dead Sea is a novel experience, with its sense 

of weightlessness. Up in the hills above the 

coast you will find the Dead Sea Panorama 

Complex, a museum administered by the RSCN, 

which has excellent information on the history 

and ecology of the Dead Sea, as well as the 

impact of human activity here. Nearby there are 

also lots of natural springs, such as Ma’in, offering 

further opportunities for relaxation and 

alternative therapies. 

THE MÖVENPICK RESORT & SPA, 

THE DEAD SEA 

Located on the shores of the Dead Sea, the 

resort is styled as a Middle-Eastern village, running 

down a green valley to a swimming pool and 

therapy centre. The 346 rooms are luxuriously 

furnished, and many look out over the small 

stream that runs through the resort. A sandy 

beach forms one side of the large, infinity 

swimming pool, and the view stretches 

uninterrupted across the glassy surface of the 

Dead Sea. The spa offers massages, mud wraps 

and a host of other relaxing treatments. 

KEMPINSKI ISHTAR DEAD SEA 

The latest addition to the hotels of the Dead Sea, 

the Kempinski Ishtar brings breathtaking design 

and modern luxury. Rooms are spacious, 

especially those located in the Ishtar villas, and 

are replete with facilities. The array of carefullydesigned 

pools are a delight as you can always 

find a deserted spot. The beach has been built 

up with fine sand from the Red Sea and the spa 

is one of the largest to be found in the region. 

There are also a number of top quality 

restaurants offering a range of different cuisines. 

EVASON MA’IN HOT SPRINGS, 

NEAR THE DEAD SEA 

The Evason Ma’in Hot Springs is located in the 

hills above the Dead Sea. With 96 rooms and a 

quiet setting, this hotel is one of the most 

luxurious places to stay in Jordan. The respected 

Evason standards of service make any stay here 

extremely relaxing, especially for guests who 

make their way down to the Six Senses spa. The 

grounds of the hotel have been landscaped with 

several pools and garden areas. The staff here are 

very friendly and this is a good alternative to the 

larger Dead Sea hotels. 

Bethany Beyond the Jordan 

Now a place of pilgrimage for many Christians 

visiting Jordan, Bethany is the site of significant 

archaeological remains, which were only properly 

excavated in the 1990s. The findings, including a 

series of churches, caves, wells and water 

channels, along with baptism pools, led historians 

to declare the area the site of Jesus’ baptism and 

St John the Baptist’s mission. Bethany is one of 

the lowest points on earth, with an incredible 

biodiversity, offering the opportunity to see a 

historical site in a fascinating natural setting. 

Kempinski Ishtar Dead Sea 


Jerusalem 

The Western Wall and Dome of the Rock, Jersusalem 

Jerusalem is somewhere that many people 

feel they know, despite not having been there. 

The names, places and stories associated with 

the city and the surrounding area are instantly 

familiar; the Mount of Olives, the Last Supper, 

the Temple Mount, Bethlehem, the Wailing 

Wall and the Dome of the Rock. A walk 

through the Old City of Jerusalem is to take a 

journey through the history of civilisations and 

empires, with ancient Jewish remains, Roman 

streets, Crusader castles and Mamluk mosques 

all enclosed within Ottoman-era city walls. 

The Old City is divided into quarters, with each 

quarter having its own distinctive character, 

depending on the religion and ethnicity of its 

inhabitants. Jerusalem is not just a living museum 

though – it’s very much a modern, breathing 

city. Beyond the city walls, the ‘new’ city of 

Jerusalem has a good selection of restaurants 

and bars on pleasant pedestrianised streets. 

There are also excellent museums such as the 

Israel Museum (repository of the Dead Sea 

Scrolls), as well as the harrowing but touching 

Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum. 

Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem 

Church of the Holy Sepulchre 

Combining Jordan and Jerusalem 

Ending a trip to Jordan with a visit to Jerusalem 

is very easy. You can simply cross the border to 

the north of the Dead Sea via the Allenby 

Bridge (also known as the King Hussein Bridge), 

obtaining visas on the day of travel. Jerusalem is 

about an hour’s drive from the border. Most 

visitors spend about three nights in Jerusalem to 

see all the sites in and around the city, although 

there is enough to do in the area to merit a 

longer stay. You may also like to include a trip 

to Bethlehem, which is eight kilometres south 

of Jerusalem. 

42

Jewish quarter, Jerusalem 

The Western Wall, Jerusalem 

Orthodox Jewish man, Western Wall 

ACCOMMODATION IN JERUSALEM 

Our specialists have researched and inspected a 

wide range of hotels in Jerusalem and would be 

happy to advise you on the best choice for your 

trip and your budget. Our favourites are the 

Mount Zion Hotel, which is characterful and has 

good views over Jerusalem; the Harmony Hotel, 

located outside the city walls, but within the 

older part of the ‘new’ city and the King David 

Jerusalem Hotel, well known for its character 

and history of hosting the great and the good. 

King David Jerusalem Hotel 

Jerusalem’s Old City 

The Old City is divided into different areas; 

the Christian, Muslim, Armenian and Jewish 

quarters, though the divisions between these 

areas are not always particularly obvious. The 

Old City is crammed with historic buildings 

which are highly significant to the three 

Abrahamic faiths. On a full day tour of Jerusalem 

you would expect to see some of the following 

sites, amongst many others. 

Temple Mount 

Thought to be the centre of the world in Jewish 

tradition, Temple Mount is the location of the 

First Temple, built by Solomon and where the 

Dome of the Rock is found, the site of God’s 

test of Abraham’s faith. 

Western Wall 

Surrounding Temple Mount on the western 

side, the wall is perhaps better known as the 

Wailing Wall and is the remnant of the ancient 

wall that at one time surrounded the Jewish 

temple’s courtyard, built by Herod the Great in 

the first century BC. Jews continue to make 

pilgrimages here to lament their losses and to 

pray, with Friday sunset being the busiest time. 

Al-Aqsa Mosque 

Also situated on Temple Mount, Al-Aqsa 

Mosque is one of the most important buildings 

of Islam, marking the spot from which 

Mohammed made his ascent to heaven during 

his night-time journey from Mecca to Jerusalem. 


One of Christianity’s most important sites, the 

Church of the Holy Sepulchre was built on the 

spot where Jesus was nailed to the cross, died 

and was resurrected. 


Jerusalem 43

Jerash 

Amman 

The Dead Sea 

ISRAEL 

Kerak Castle 

JORDAN 

Petra 

Wadi Rum 

SAUDI ARABIA 

Rock Arch in Wadi Rum 







Please call one of our Jordan specialists to start 


Telephone: 01993 838 415 


Jordan has an excellent road network and the 

length of the country can be covered in a matter 

of hours. Most of your travelling will be on these 

roads in private air-conditioned vehicles. Visits to 

Jordan can easily be combined with travel to 

other countries within the region. Crossing into 

Syria is done by travelling north from Amman to 

Damascus, visiting the archaeological ruins of 

Jerash or Bosra on your way. Alternatively, you 

could venture across the Allenby Bridge to see 

the world’s most important religious city, 

Jerusalem, or fly to Cairo for a trip around Egypt 

and its wonderful ancient monuments. 

Azraq wetlands 

44 

Lizard in Dana Nature Reserve 

When to go 


~ ~ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ~ ~ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ~ 





Jordan has a typically Middle Eastern climate. 

Spring and autumn are the best times to travel as 

the days are warm, with temperatures into the 

high twenties Celsius with cool nights. Winters 

can be surprisingly cold and wet, whilst snow is 

not uncommon. Summers are hot with 

temperatures reaching to the forties Celsius on 

occasion. If you are not adversely affected by heat 

it is still worth considering a trip at this time as 

some of the sites will be a little quieter than at 

other times of the year. 

Time difference: GMT+2 hours 


Prices 



for your trip to Jordan on our website, 

alternatively please call our specialists to discuss 

your plans. 

Classic Jordan 

Jordan’s major sites can all be comfortably visited 

in a one-week trip, with time at the end to 

unwind. Starting in the north with visits to Jerash 

and Amman, you then take the Kings’ Highway 

south through Madaba, Mount Nebo and Kerak 

ending in Petra. You will have two full days to 

explore the site before travelling, via Wadi Rum, 

to a Dead Sea hotel for some relaxation. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Fly from the UK to Amman. 

On arrival, you are met and taken 

to your hotel in the city. 

Spend the morning exploring the 

capital of Jordan, then head north to 

visit the Roman site of Jerash. 

Travel along the Kings’ Highway to 

Petra, stopping to visit Madaba, 

Mount Nebo and Kerak Castle 

en route. 

Spend the day in Petra, accompanied 

by a local guide. 

A second day in Petra to further 

explore the site. 

Explore Wadi Rum before heading 

to the Dead Sea. 

Time to relax beside the Dead Sea. 

Experience the novelty of floating on 

the Dead Sea. 

Transfer to Amman’s airport for your 

return flight to London. 

Stay longer 

If you wish to extend your trip you could consider 

including a night in Wadi Rum in your itinerary, or 

combine it with a trip to Egypt to make the most 

of your stay in the region. 

Wall of Tombs, Petra


Ajloun Castle 

The Dead Sea 

Umm Qais 

Jerash 

Amman 

SYRIA 

Tel Aviv 

Jerusalem 

Bethlehem 

The Dead Sea 

Jerash 

Amman 

Aleppo 

SYRIA 

Palmyra 

Kerak Castle 

ISRAEL 

Kerak Castle 

Damascus 

Dana Nature 

Reserve 

Petra 

JORDAN 

Petra 

JORDAN 

The Dead Sea 

Amman 

JORDAN 

Aqaba 

Wadi Rum 

SAUDI ARABIA 

Wadi Rum 

SAUDI ARABIA 

Petra 

Jordan Discovered 

Being such a compact country, a two week trip 

enables you to see almost everything Jordan has 

to offer. The must-see sights of Petra, Jerash and 

Wadi Rum combine with an exploration of the 

Kings’ Highway, visits to one of Jordan’s nature 

reserves and time to relax. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Fly from the UK to Amman. 

Transfer to your hotel. 

Spend the day exploring Amman 

and the Desert Castles. 

Leave Amman for a tour of northern 

Jordan, taking in Umm Qais, Ajloun 

Castle and Jerash. 


Petra, stopping to visit Madaba, 

Mount Nebo and Kerak Castle 

en route. 

Discover Petra with a local guide. 

A second day to explore Petra on 

your own. 

Visit Wadi Rum before travelling to 

Aqaba for a couple of nights 

Enjoy the Red Sea. 

Travel to Dana Nature Reserve, 

stopping to visit Shawbak Castle 

en route. 

Walk from Dana Village to Feynan 

Ecolodge. 

Travel from Feynan to your Dead 

Sea hotel, stopping to visit Lot’s Cave 

on your way. 

Enjoy the novelty of floating on the 

Dead Sea. 

A day to continue relaxing at the 

Dead Sea, or explore other sites 

such as Mukawir or Bethany Beyond 

the Jordan. 


return flight to the UK. 

Stay longer 

You could spend longer at the Red Sea or 

Dead Sea if you need more time to relax after 

your sightseeing. 

Jordan and Jerusalem 

A perfect itinerary for the history enthusiast, 

you start in Jordan with visits to the impressive 

Roman city of Jerash, the rose city of Petra, and 

a relaxing stay at the Dead Sea. Crossing the 

border into Israel, you move on to Jerusalem, 

spiritual centre of three of the world’s major 

religions, with many different layers of history and 

some truly iconic sites. There is also time to visit 

the town of Bethlehem. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Fly from the UK to Amman, where 

you are met on arrival and taken to 

your hotel in the city. 

Visit Amman before heading to Jerash 

to explore the Roman ruins. 


Petra, visiting Madaba, Mount Nebo 

and Kerak Castle on the way. 

Visit Petra, accompanied by a local 

guide to help you get your bearings. 

A second day in Petra to reach some 

of the remote parts of the site, such 

as the High Place of Sacrifice. 

Travel to the Dead Sea, first 

visiting Wadi Rum for a jeep tour 

of the desert. 

A day to enjoy at the Dead Sea. 

Travel across the Allenby Bridge 

to Jerusalem. 

Spend the day exploring Jerusalem’s 

Old City and museums. 

Go to Bethlehem to visit the Church 

of the Nativity. Return to Jerusalem 

for the afternoon. 

Transfer to Tel Aviv for your return 

flight to the UK. 

Stay longer 

You could extend your stay in Jordan to include 

visits to some of the nature reserves, or spend an 

extra couple of nights in Jerusalem to explore the 

city some more. 

Syria and Jordan Combined 

A trip which combines the main highlights of both 

Syria and Jordan, this itinerary is perfect for those 

wanting a great perspective on the region’s varied 

history. In Syria there is time in Aleppo, Palmyra 

and Damascus, while your visit to Jordan includes 

Amman, the Dead Sea and magical Petra. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Day 15 

Day 16 

Day 17 

Fly from the UK to Damascus. 

Visit Damascus, taking in the 

Umayyad Mosque and the 

National Museum. 

Explore the sites in the south of 

Syria, including Bosra and Shahba. 

Travel to Palmyra, stopping to visit 

Ma’alula and Deir Mar Musa en route. 

Explore the ruins of Palmyra. 

Travel to Aleppo, visiting Apamea 

on your way. 

Discover Aleppo, with a view over 

the city from the huge Citadel. 

Visit sites in the surrounding 

countryside, including St Simeon’s, 

Ain Dara and the Dead City of 

Serjilla. 

Travel to Damascus, visiting Crac 

des Chevaliers on the way south. 

Cross the border into Jordan, 

continuing to Amman. 

Visit the sites of northern Jordan, 

including the Roman ruins of Jerash, 

Umm Qais and Ajloun Castle. 

Travel to Petra, visiting Madaba, 

Mount Nebo and Kerak Castle on 

your way along the Kings’ Highway. 

Visit Petra with a local guide who will 

help you explore the site. 

Revisit Petra and discover some of 

the more remote areas of the site. 

Travel to the Dead Sea, stopping to 

visit Lot’s Cave en route. 

A day to enjoy floating on the Dead 

Sea and relaxation at your hotel. 




Syria 

Culturally and historically, Syria is 

probably the richest country in the 

Middle East and is an essential destination 

for anyone with an interest in this 

fascinating region. It has been continuously 

inhabited since the Neolithic period and all 

the great Mediterranean cultures have held 

sway here. Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, 

Arabs and Crusaders have all left traces of 

their influence in the extensive ruins found 

throughout the country. Palmyra is one of 

the greatest archaeological highlights of the 

region, fully justifying a visit to Syria in 

its own right. The great cities of Damascus 

and Aleppo trace their origins back to 

darkest antiquity, with Damascus claiming 

to be the oldest continually inhabited city 

in the world. Today both cities are 

intoxicating blends of ancient citadels, 

Roman streets and labyrinthine souqs, 

overlaid by bustling modernity. Traders 

peddle their wares against a backdrop that 

would be instantly recognisable to their 

ancestors from past centuries. Visitors 

returning from Syria always talk about the 

people, always ready with a smile and 

unwaveringly hospitable. 

46

Audley in Syria 

5 

1 

2 

4 

Our advice on how to plan your time in 

Syria depends on your particular interests, 

and whether or not you are combining 

your visit with another country. A trip just to 

see the major highlights would take about a 

week, whereas we would suggest the keen 

amateur historian spends a fortnight here. 

This is long enough to visit the major 

highlights of Damascus, Palmyra, Crac des 

Chevaliers and Aleppo, along with a host of 

other sites, perhaps including a journey along 

the Euphrates Valley. Good transport links 

with Jordan and Lebanon make it easy to 

combine two or all three of these countries. 

We recommend just over two weeks to 

combine Syria’s most important sites with 

visits to Petra in Jordan and Baalbek in 

Lebanon. 

Accommodation 

1 Damascus 

One of the oldest cities in the 

world, Damascus has wonderful 

historic and religious monuments 

as well as labyrinthine covered 

souqs to explore. 

3 

Worshipper in Aleppo Mosque 

4 Palmyra 

With a mixture of historical 

influences and a desert location, 

Palmyra is an essential stop on 

any trip to Syria. 

Syrian cuisine 

Syrian cuisine is a delightful 

mix of Armenian, Turkish, 

Jewish and Arab influences. 

Previously, the hotel industry has been 

dominated by state-owned chains, which 

operate hotels in nearly every significant 

destination. There have been dramatic 

improvements in accommodation over 

recent years in Damascus and Aleppo, 

however, and our specialists continue to 

unearth characterful properties with each 

visit. The growth in small boutique hotels 

has been a boon to tourism in Syria. These 

properties take their lead from Moroccan 

riads and are converted palaces and large 

family homes with a real local flavour. They 

add a splash of charm in a country where 

accommodation is usually practical rather 

than luxurious. Damascus is now also 

attracting the interest of international 

premium hotel groups such as Four Seasons 

and Kempinski. 

5 

Crac des Chevaliers 

Crac des Chevaliers is the bestknown 

of the Crusader castles. 

St Simeon’s 

Find out more 

Umayyad Mosque, Damascus 

2 Aleppo 

The old city of Aleppo matches 

Damascus for history and 

culture, with the Citadel 

dominating the skyline. 

3 Bosra 

Bosra’s Roman theatre has 

gravity-defying seats, and 

once accommodated 9,000 

spectators. 

Aleppo’s souqs 


information about travel in Syria, please see 

pages 54-55. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Syria 


Syria 47

Umayyad Mosque, Damascus 

Damascus 

Though several cities claim to be the longest 

continuously inhabited city in the world, 

Damascus has a better claim than most. 

Archaeological remains dating to the third 

millennium BC have been found and King David, 

the Persians and Alexander the Great were some 

of the city’s earliest conquerors. The city walls 

date back to Roman times, as does the biblical 

Straight Street. Caliph Khalid Ibn Al-Walid, ruler 

of the first Islamic Empire, moved his capital to 

Damascus in the 8th century AD, during the 

Umayyad period. His Umayyad Mosque is now at 

the heart of the winding streets and alleys of Old 

Damascus, where traders display their wares 

against a backdrop of Corinthian columns and 

Mamluke stone-work. It is a scene which belongs 

just as much to the medieval Islamic and 

Ottoman eras as to the Syria of today. 

The townhouse hotels 

of Syria 

During the last decade or so, Syrians have 

seen the potential in converting period family 

homes and palaces in the old cities of 

Damascus and Aleppo into boutique hotels. 

The old houses lend themselves well to this 

purpose; there is usually a small number of 

rooms and the buildings retain many of their 

original features and character. They are 

often located in the city centre, ideal for 

exploring the narrow streets and souqs. 

Staying in one of these hotels offers a real 

insight into traditional architecture in a 

Middle Eastern city, with their rooms set 

Old family home, Damascus 

Courtyard, Beit Al-Mamlouka 

around central courtyards, and with separate 

quarters for men and women, demonstrating 

not only the wealth of the original 

inhabitants, but also how similarly Muslim, 

Christian and Jewish families lived in these 

cities in the past. In general, the houses have 

been converted with care and attention. 

Indeed, one architect made the conversion of 

her house (Beit al-Mamlouka, in Damascus) 

the subject of her doctoral thesis. Arches, 

striped stone-work, tiled floors and intricate 

stone and woodwork abound in these 

houses, making them a delight for architects, 

historians, photographers and artists alike. 

Colourful spices, Damascus 

48

Selling walnuts in the spice souq, Damascus 

Hotel Talisman, Damascus 

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL, 

DAMASCUS 

The Four Seasons Hotel in Damascus offers 

excellent service and attention to detail, 

conveniently located near the National Museum. 

Inside, the rooms are superb, and the hotel’s 

height means that it towers over the city with 

some commanding views from the highest levels. 

The hotel has all the facilities needed for a short 

stay in Damascus, including a swimming pool to 

relax in after a day’s sightseeing. 

HOTEL TALISMAN, DAMASCUS 

The Hotel Talisman has a fantastic location in 

central Damascus, a hundred metres from the 

Roman Arch on Straight Street leading to the 

eastern gate (Bab Ash-Sharqi). Originally built as 

a palace by one of the city’s old Jewish families, 

it is centred round a large open courtyard and 

pool. Traditional arched doors and windows, 

framed by the alternating marble bands typical of 

Syrian architecture, lead into the cool interior, 

where you find a lounge and the rooms and 

suites. Inlaid wooden furniture, beautiful carpets, 

ornate metal light fittings and attractively tiled 

bathrooms perfectly capture the opulence of 

historic Damascus. 

BEIT AL-MAMLOUKA, DAMASCUS 

A boutique hotel that radiates Damascene style, 

Beit Al-Mamlouka has an enviable location and 

was the first of the townhouses to be converted 

into a hotel. The terrace is one of the few points 

within the old city where you can gaze over the 

rooftops and soak up the atmosphere. The eight 

rooms are all different and each has its own 

charm. Around the hotel there are shady 

courtyards, blossoming plants and a quiet 

restaurant where a hearty breakfast is provided 

and a small bar operates as dusk falls. 

AL PASHA, DAMASCUS 

Al Pasha is a townhouse hotel, located just off 

Straight Street in the old city of Damascus. 

The hotel has been formed by joining together 

three 18th century houses. It has five suites and 

11 rooms spread over two floors, with antique 

furniture and old tiles retained throughout. 

The high ceilings and white walls create a sense 

of space in each room, which also have all the 

necessary amenities for your stay. Al Pasha has 

more facilities than some of the other 

townhouse hotels, with a small gym and the 

Al Haneh Bar, where you can relax and enjoy 

a drink after sightseeing. 

Beit Al-Mamlouka, Damascus 

Al Pasha, Damascus 

www.audleytravel.com/syria ● 01993 838 425 ● Syria 49

Bosra’s Theatre 

Bosra 

South of Damascus, near the border with Jordan, 

Bosra is a fascinating archaeological site. It is most 

famous for its fabulously preserved Roman 

theatre, complete with banked seating, which 

once held 9,000 spectators. The theatre is 

enclosed within an Arab fortress, explaining its 

state of preservation, and like the rest of the 

town, it is built of black basalt. As with many 

sites in Syria, Bosra shows evidence of the 

succession of empires which held sway in the 

area, so Roman bath complexes and Corinthian 

columns jostle for position with the Mosque of 

Omar, which dates to the 7th or 8th century AD 

and is thought to be one of the earliest mosques 

in the world. 

Ma‘alula 

50 

A church in Ma‘alula 

Ma‘alula 

Ma‘alula is Syria’s most picturesque village, the 

painted houses contrast with the pine trees that 

grow on the hillsides. The village is set in the 

foothills of the mountains that form a natural 

border with Lebanon. Stacked houses, which 

combine modern and traditional styles, are pinned 

to the rock wall and are interspersed with 

churches with blue crosses on the tops of their 

spires. It is these churches that form a key part of 

Ma‘alula’s appeal, with some of them dating back 

to the earliest days of Christianity. The services 

here, and indeed many of the conversations in 

the village, still take place in Aramaic, the ancient 

language spoken by Jesus. Ma‘alula is also the 

location of the miracle of St Thecla’s escape from 

would-be captors, making it an important stop 

for many Christian pilgrims. 

Deir Mar Musa 

The early Christian church found expression in 

remote retreats in inhospitable places. Deir Mar 

Musa is one of the few surviving desert 

monasteries, located at the top of a cliff and 

accessible only on foot. After a period of 

abandonment it is in use again, thanks to the 

efforts of an Italian Jesuit priest, who rediscovered 

the monastery in the 1980s. Today, Syrian monks 

and nuns live here, from both Catholic and 

Orthodox churches, with the odd traveller also 

staying. The walk to the monastery is hard, uphill 

work, but once you arrive, the views are 

breathtaking. Within the old church of the 

monastery you will find superb frescoes dating to 

the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries. One such 

fresco depicts St Simeon on his pillar, the remains 

of which can be seen in the north of Syria. 

Deir Mar Musa

Palmyra at sunset 

Detail from a column, Palmyra 

Palmyra 

Palmyra is a desert oasis northeast of Damascus, 

which prospered in ancient times thanks to trade 

links between the Mediterranean and the 

Euphrates Valley. Gradually Romanised over the 

course of the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, the city 

reasserted its independence in the late 3rd 

century under the legendary Queen Zenobia. 

What is left today is so extensive and wonderfully 

well preserved that it gives a remarkable idea of 

what Palmyra was like in its heyday: long 

colonnaded streets, vast temples girded by 

expertly worked columns and unusual tower 

tombs. The highlights of a visit would include the 

huge Temple of Bel and the wonderful views 

over the whole city from the Arab Castle. 

Palmyra is one of the largest, most complete 

archaeological sites in the Middle East, with a 

unique blend of Classical and regional influences 

that makes it a must-see. 

TADAMORA PALACE, PALMYRA 

The Tadamora Palace is a new hotel located 

close to the ancient site of Palmyra. Like all 

hotels in the town, the Tadamora lacks a little 

character, but its location makes it possible to 

walk to the ruins and the facilities include two 

restaurants, a bar and an outdoor pool. The 

rooms are large compared to most hotels in 

Palmyra and all are fresh and modern. This is a 

good, practical base from which to explore 

the area. 

Halabiyya, the Euphrates Valley 

The Euphrates Valley 

The Euphrates Valley is one of the least visited 

areas of Syria, but it has a wealth of archaeological 

ruins which demonstrate the importance of the 

river in Syria’s prosperous past. The Lower 

Euphrates is the location of such sites as Mari and 

Dura Europos, which although not as visually 

impressive as others in Syria, do help to put all 

the history into context. The Upper Euphrates is 

no less rich with ancient ruins; the remains of 

Rasafa, Halabiyya and Deir Ez-Zor are well worth 

the long journey necessary to reach them. 


Umayyad Mosque, Aleppo 

Aleppo 

Thanks to its position at the end of the Silk 

Route, Aleppo has always been a city of 

commerce, in contrast to its neighbour Damascus 

which has traditionally been home to the 

government and religious elites of the region. 

This fact is reflected in the endless bustling souqs, 

where a visitor can happily while away many 

hours looking for a bargain, or just drinking in the 

lively and entertaining street scenes. 

Elsewhere, away from the souqs, ancient 

churches mingle with Jewish, Armenian and 

Turkish influences in the winding streets and alleys 

of the old city. Rising above the rooftops is the 

8th century Umayyad Mosque (sometimes 

known as the Grand Mosque), reputed to contain 

the tomb of Zachary, father of John the Baptist. 

The entire old city stands in the shadow of the 

edifice of the 13th century Citadel. Built on a 

natural promontory, the fortress dominates the 

skyline and is a reminder of the city’s strategic 

importance in the past. It is a very atmospheric 

place at sunset, when the echoes of the call to 

prayer reverberate around Aleppo. 

Aleppo also has an excellent National Museum, 

recommended especially for those visiting the 

archaeological sites of Ugarit and Mari as many 

of the finds are displayed here. 

BEIT SALAHIEH, ALEPPO 

After a lavish renovation, Beit Salahieh 

reopened in 2010 as one of Aleppo’s most 

luxurious and historic hotels. It has a fantastic 

location, charmingly ensconced in some of the 

older streets at the foot of the Citadel, away 

from the hustle and bustle of the souq area. 

The rooftop bar and restaurant take full 

advantage of this excellent location, with stunning 

views across to the Citadel, which is lit up at 

night. There are 40 rooms spread over three 

houses that make up the hotel, all fitted out with 

the modern facilities you would expect, while 

retaining a distinctive Syrian character. 

Carpet seller in an Aleppo souq 


Aleppo’s covered souqs, reputedly 

forming the longest market in the world, 

stretch for over ten miles. The souqs 

retain their original structure and layout, 

so different products are for sale in 

specific areas of the market, hence 

names such as the Souq Al-Hibal, the 

rope market, and Souq Al-Attarine, 

where perfumes and incense are sold. 

Locals continue to use the souq for 

everyday shopping, much as their 

ancestors did centuries ago. 

52 

Citadel, Aleppo

Children, Aleppo 

The Hittite Temple at Ain Dara, near Aleppo 

MANSOURIYA PALACE HOTEL, 

ALEPPO 

The renovation of Mansouriya, a 16th century 

house, took a full seven years before it opened in 

2002. Today, the nine suites are a haven of calm 

and luxury. Three suites sit on the first floor, 

looking into a central courtyard with covered 

seating areas, while three occupy the next floor 

and the final three are tucked behind the 

restaurant and Jacuzzi area. All are fabulously 

decorated in a style which reflects a particular 

period of Syrian history, giving each suite a unique 

character. The hotel is ideally located close to 

Aleppo’s covered souqs and the Bab Qennesrin 

Gate into the old town. 

YASMEEN D’ALEP, ALEPPO 

One of many townhouse hotels in Aleppo, this 

restored 17th century Arabic house has all the 

charm you might hope for. The eight rooms are 

bright and well decorated, and the care and detail 

in the renovation is plain to see. Situated in the 

Jdayde area, it is centrally located for visits to the 

Citadel and souqs, yet it’s something of a hidden 

retreat as the moment you enter the courtyard 

you instantly leave the hustle and bustle of the 

city behind you. 


Mansouriya Palace Hotel, Aleppo 

St Simeon’s 

These ruins of a Byzantine basilica close to 

Aleppo are set on a hillside looking over the 

limestone-strewn landscape. They are highly 

significant because this is supposedly the location 

of St Simeon Stylites’ efforts to lead his extreme, 

ascetic lifestyle. To escape a rapidly-growing band 

of admirers, he elected to live atop a series of 

progressively taller pillars. His fame continued to 

grow, and upon his death, after 39 years living at 

the top of a pillar, an undignified struggle broke 

out for his relics. The remains of the massive 

church complex surround the stump of his final, 

18 metre-high pillar. 

The Dead Cities 

The Dead Cities are a cluster of Byzantine cities 

to the southwest of Aleppo that appear to have 

been spontaneously deserted by their inhabitants. 

One theory is that, as the Byzantine era gave way 

to the Arab world, trade routes changed through 

the region and consequently these cities lost their 

raison d’être and the inhabitants simply moved to 

other settlements that were faring better. The 

beauty of the Dead Cities is that they are not 

grand provincial capitals, but the remains of fairly 

small settlements with simple, everyday structures 

like houses, taverns and public baths. These are in 

an amazing state of preservation, especially given 

that little restoration work has taken place, and 

when you wander around them it’s easy to 

imagine that they are still inhabited. 

St Simeon’s monastery 








Please call one of our Syria specialists to start 


Telephone: 01993 838 425 



We provide private air-conditioned vehicles for 

journeys in Syria, either small minibuses or saloon 

cars. You can choose to travel with just a driver, 

or to have a driver and guide if you would like 

detailed explanations at the archaeological sites. 

When to go 

Young Bedouin girl 

Hama and Homs 

These cities are located along the main route 

between Damascus and Aleppo, and because 

of their proximity to some of Syria’s central 

sites, most visitors end up spending a night in 

one or the other. Homs is the third city of 

Syria and is the nearest base for reaching Crac 

des Chevaliers and many of the other castles 

in the area. Hama is the fourth largest city and 

has more to offer the visitor – its history is 

colourful and long, and its geography is 

engaging; nurtured by the Orontes River, and 

not far from the foot of the nearby mountains. 

Harnessing the river, massive wooden 

waterwheels creak and groan in pretty water 

parks. Like Homs, Hama is a good base for 

visiting sites including the Dead Cities and 

Apamea, or as a staging post to link the 

major cities. 

Apamea 


Crac des Chevaliers represents the zenith of 

Crusader military architecture. Occupying a 

bluff overlooking a strategic pass between the 

coast and the interior, it was first fortified by 

the Emir of Homs in the early 11th century 

AD. Captured by the Crusaders, it was handed 

over in 1144 to the Knights Hospitaller, one 

of the military orders, and it was they who 

constructed the massive curtain walls that 

seem to be extensions of the sheer cliffs on 

which they were built. Wandering around the 

site, you can appreciate the skill with which 

the Hospitallers shaped their fortress around 

the natural slopes and cliffs, and marvel at the 

beauty of vaulted passageways. 

Apamea 

Apamea, like Palmyra, was a trading post of 

the Roman Empire. At times it surpassed the 

importance of Palmyra, as is evident from the 

main street (the Cardo Maximus) which is 

longer than those of either Roman Palmyra 

or Damascus. It is perfectly aligned north-tosouth, 

flanked by tall, ornate colonnades. 

Chariot wheel ruts score the paving stones, 

and what were once ancient doorways of 

shops and residences open out onto partially 

excavated fields. 


~ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ~ ~ ~ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ~ 





March, April, September and October are the 

best months to visit Syria, with low rainfall and 

temperatures in the mid to late twenties Celsius. 

The country enjoys a typical Mediterranean 

climate with hot, dry summers and cool winters, 

when the north of the country usually sees fairly 

significant rainfall. There is of course some 

regional variation in the climate throughout the 

country, with towns in the east much drier than 

Aleppo in the north of the country. 



Prices 



for your trip to Syria on our website, alternatively 


Noria waterwheel in Hama 

54 

Umayyad Mosque, Damascus


St.Simeon’s 

Aleppo 

St.Simeon’s 

Aleppo 

St.Simeon’s 

Aleppo 

Crac des 

Chevaliers 

Apamea 

Damascus 

SYRIA 

Palmyra 

Lattakia 

Crac des 

Chevaliers 

Apamea 

Homs 

Deir Mar Musa 

Ma‘alula 

Damascus 

SYRIA 

Palmyra 

Crac des 

Chevaliers 

Tripoli 

Byblos 

Beirut 

Beiteddine 

LEBANON 

Apamea 

Deir Mar Musa 

Ma‘alula 

Damascus 

SYRIA 

Palmyra 

Bosra 

Bosra 

Bosra 

Classic Syria 

This tour takes just over a week to see Syria’s 

major highlights and is the perfect introduction to 

the principal archaeological ruins and the great 

Syrian cities of Aleppo and Damascus. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Fly from the UK to Damascus, where 

you will be met and taken to your 

hotel for a three night stay. 

Visit Bosra in the morning. In the 

afternoon return to Damascus to 

explore by yourself. 

Another day to discover Damascus. 

Travel to Palmyra to visit the ruins 

before sunset. 

A long day, with a second chance to 

see Palmyra, before visiting the site of 

Apamea and moving on to Aleppo. 

Visit St Simeon’s basilica in the 

morning before returning to Aleppo 

to explore the old city. 

Another day to discover more 

of Aleppo. 

Travel from Aleppo to Damascus, 

stopping to visit Crac des Chevaliers 

en route. 

Transfer to the airport for your 


Stay longer 

Adding a day or two in Aleppo and Damascus is 

worthwhile if you can spare the time – this will 

give you the opportunity to discover much 

more of the cities and have time for shopping 

in the souqs. 

Grand Tour of Syria 

This tour lingers a bit longer over the 

archaeological sites than the Classic Syria trip and 

includes some of Syria’s less well-visited sites, such 

as Marqab Castle. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Fly from the UK to Damascus, 

where you will be met and taken 

to your hotel. 

Explore the old city of Damascus, 

taking in the Umayyad Mosque and 

the souqs. 

Visit Bosra and the other sites in the 

south of Syria. 

Travel from Damascus to Palmyra, 

stopping to visit Ma‘alula and Deir 

Mar Musa on the way. 

A whole day to explore the ruins 

of Palmyra. 

Travel to Aleppo, stopping to visit 

the Roman site of Apamea en route. 

Visit the basilica of St Simeon. 

Discover Aleppo’s souqs and Citadel. 

Travel to Syria’s coast, stopping en 

route to see some of the castles and 

ancient ruins in the area. 

Travel to Homs, with a visit to 

Marqab Castle and Saifa on the way. 

Visit Crac des Chevaliers, before 

returning to Damascus. 

Explore Damascus further. 



Stay longer 

The trip could be extended with a trip to Jordan 

visiting Jerash, Petra and Wadi Rum before flying 

back to the UK from Amman. 

Syria and Lebanon 

Combined 

This itinerary is a two week trip, including all 

the most important archaeological sites and cities 

in Lebanon and Syria. The itinerary is very easily 

reversed if you want to end your trip in the 

vibrant city of Beirut. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Fly from the UK to Beirut, where you 

will be met and taken to your hotel. 

Visit Sidon and Beiteddine, then 

spend the rest of the afternoon 

exploring Beirut. 

Go to Tripoli and Byblos, returning 

to Beirut for the night. 

Visit Beirut’s National Museum and 

the Solidère district. 

Travel to Damascus in Syria, stopping 

to visit the magnificent ruins of 

Baalbek on the way. 

Explore the old city of Damascus. 

Travel south from Damascus to visit 

the archaeological ruins of Bosra. 

Head east to Palmyra, stopping at 

Ma‘alula and Deir Mar Musa en route. 

Visit the ruins of Palmyra. 

Visit the site of Apamea before 

continuing to Aleppo. 

Start your exploration of Aleppo. 

Visit the Citadel, the National 

Museum and the souqs. 

Visit the ruins of St Simeon’s basilica 

before returning to Aleppo for the 

rest of the day. 

Return to Damascus, stopping to visit 

Crac des Chevaliers on the way. 



Stay longer 

Travel on to Jordan after your final stay in 

Damascus, and visit another of the region’s great 

sites, Petra, before returning to the UK. 

Azem Palace, Damascus 


Lebanon 

Though small, Lebanon is home 

to a fantastic array of historical 

sites as well as having a vibrant 

modern culture, which makes it 

something of a trendsetter in the 

Arab World. Beirut is re-establishing 

itself as the principal capital of the 

region, looking to reclaim its former 

sobriquet, the Paris of the Orient. 

The coast is dotted with historical 

sites, such as Byblos and Sidon, while 

the interior of the country hides 

beautiful landscapes, such as the 

Qadisha Valley and the snow-capped 

Lebanon Mountains. The sheer 

height of the columns at the ancient 

site of Baalbek, in the northeast, is 

impressive enough, but the majesty of 

the temples dedicated to Bacchus and 

Jupiter also have to be seen to be 

believed. Hospitality, in particular 

cuisine, is one of the highlights – the 

food here is perhaps the tastiest of all 

the countries in this region. 

Temple of Jupiter, Baalbek 

4 Beiteddine 

An extensive palace complex in 

the hills above Beirut and home 

to some fine Byzantine mosaics. 

5 

5 Tripoli 

Associated with Crusader 

history, the Citadel of Raymond 

de Saint Gilles dominates the 

skyline of Tripoli. 

6 

Baalbek 

3 

1 

2 

4 

6 

Interior of St Paul’s Church, Beirut 

1 Beirut 

A glitzy capital finding its feet 

again, and a fascinating mix of 

old and new. 

2 Byblos 

Dating back eight millennia, 

the ruins of Byblos have a 

picturesque setting beside the 

Mediterranean Sea. 

Perhaps the most impressive 

and most important of all the 

archaeological sites in the 

Middle East. 

Lebanese cuisine 

Lebanese cuisine is renowned 

around the world, known for its 

mezze, including such dishes as 

hummus, tabouleh and falafel. 

3 

Sidon 

A beautiful coastal town to 

the south of Beirut, especially 

important during the Crusades. 

Lebanese mezze 

56

Beirut street scene 

Beirut 

Once known as the Paris of the Orient, Beirut is 

again becoming the leading city of the Middle 

East. Riven by sectarian divides during the civil 

war, the city today is vibrant and bustling. The 

National Museum is an essential stop – bright and 

well laid-out, with interesting historical displays. 

The central Solidère district attracts visitors and 

locals alike: its restaurants and cafés are busy 

throughout the day. Evidence of Beirut’s ancient 

past is visible, with the ruins of Roman 

bathhouses, whilst the parliament buildings 

demonstrate the French influence of the Mandate 

era. The Christian quarters in the east are a maze 

of streets and staircases linking hills, and here you 

will find some of the best restaurants and bars. 

Beirut is truly a Mediterranean city and its 

Corniche is wonderful for experiencing the locals’ 

legendary joie de vivre. 

ALBERGO HOTEL, BEIRUT 

A Relais and Chateaux property, the Albergo 

Hotel is something of a Beiruti institution. It is 

located in the Ashrafiyeh district, on a small, quiet 

street surrounded by bars, restaurants and cafés. 

The hotel retains many of its original features, 

including old-fashioned lifts and ornate furniture. 

Rooms are spacious and some have balconies 

overlooking the street. The hotel has a rooftop 

terrace with a small swimming pool. The Italian 

restaurant is renowned and a Thai restaurant adds 

to the choice of dining options should you want a 

change from Lebanese cuisine during your trip. 

Phoenicia InterContinental, Beirut 

The Mövenpick Hotel and Resort, Beirut 

THE MÖVENPICK HOTEL & 

RESORT, BEIRUT 

Located just off the Corniche with a superb 

waterfront location, the Mövenpick Hotel is 

oriented towards the west, so the views of the 

sunset over the Mediterranean are hard to beat. 

It has a range of facilities essential for a 

comfortable stay in Beirut, including a large 

swimming pool and extensive gym complex for 

those needing more activity after sightseeing. The 

Mövenpick is a good place to sample Lebanese 

cuisine at its best, in the Burj Al-Hammam 

Restaurant, while its bar has an extensive wine 

list, with plenty of local wine. 

PHOENICIA INTERCONTINENTAL, 

BEIRUT 

The Phoenicia InterContinental Hotel in Beirut 

deservedly enjoys a reputation as one of the most 

glamorous and luxurious hotels in the city. The 

hotel was a landmark and fashionable hive of 

activity in the 1960s, when Beirut was at the 

height of its wealth, glamour and sophistication. 

Today it still offers luxury facilities, stylish décor 

and fine furnishings. The rooms are large and 

decorated in an elegant, understated fashion, with 

plump pillows and soft bed linen. Six restaurants, 

a bar and a lounge offer a wide variety of cuisine 

and areas to unwind, while the two swimming 

pools and spa provide the perfect antidote to a 

long day of sightseeing. 

Audley in Lebanon 

Lebanon is easily visited in a trip of a week 

to ten days, with all the major sites within 

reach of Beirut. Typically you would be based 

in the capital and take day excursions to 

Byblos, Tripoli, Sidon, Beiteddine and Baalbek. 

Trips can be extended, with extra time to 

relax in Beirut, or up in the hills or ski 

resorts. Lebanon combines well with time in 

Syria and Jordan, usually travelling by road to 

cross the land borders. For a comprehensive 

tour of these Levantine countries, you would 

need around three weeks to include sites 

such as Baalbek, Palmyra and Petra. 

Accommodation 

Accommodation in Beirut tends to be in 

international hotels, with a range of locations 

and prices. Some of these have fantastic sea 

views out onto the Mediterranean. Outside 

Beirut the hotels are not quite of the same 

standard but there are some good options 

along the coast and in the mountains for a 

change of scenery. 

Druze man, Lebanon 

Find out more 


information about travel in Lebanon, please 

see page 59. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Lebanon 


Lebanon 57

Sea Castle, Sidon 

Baalbek 

Baalbek is the main focus for many trips to 

Lebanon, and with good reason – it is one of the 

most impressive sites of the region, giving visitors 

a taste of the power and might of the Roman 

empire. Standing at the north of the Bekaa Valley, 

a remote location away from the coast, it has 

well-preserved temples. One of these is dedicated 

to the Roman god of grapes and wine, Bacchus, a 

little incongruous nowadays given the proximity of 

the site to a local mosque. Another is dedicated 

to Jupiter and once had 54 columns marking its 

perimeter. Today only six remain standing, but 

they are still the largest columns in the world – 

over twenty metres high and with a girth of just 

over two metres. 

The Bekaa Valley 

Running along the border with Syria and sitting 

between two mountain ranges, the Bekaa Valley 

is an agricultural region in the east of Lebanon. 

The area has been used for farming since ancient 

times, and provided grains for the Roman Empire. 

Nowadays the valley is known for its vineyards 

and wineries and Lebanese wine is some of the 

best produced in the region. Several of the 

wineries are open for visits and tastings, including 

Ksara and Chateau Musar. 

Sidon 

As the birthplace of former Prime Minister Rafiq 

Hariri, Sidon has undergone several renewal 

projects in recent years, which give a rather 

sanitised feel to its souqs and historic sites. 

Nonetheless, it has a very picturesque setting, 

with the Crusader’s Sea Castle acting as a focal 

point and gateway to the town. The souqs hide 

interesting old churches, caravanserais and 

mosques. The town, like Tripoli, was known for 

its soap industry and today there is an interesting 

museum which displays the original tools and 

machinery used by workers. 

Ksara wine from the Bekaa Valley 

Beiteddine and Deir 

Al Qamar 

The two former palaces of Beiteddine and Deir 

Al Qamar belonged to the rulers of Lebanon 

during the Ottoman period. Beiteddine is a series 

of three interlinked buildings, with the stables of 

the palace now housing some fine Byzantine 

mosaic, taken from a nearby site. Deir Al Qamar 

has further palaces and is also a good place to 

enjoy a typical Lebanese snack. 

Temple of Bacchus, Baalbek 

58 

Beiteddine Palace



The itinerary shown is designed to give you a 

flavour of what is possible, and is a route that 

works particularly well. We can use this as a basis 

to plan your trip or can design a completely 


Please call one of our Lebanon specialists to start 


Beirut 

Byblos 

Tripoli 

LEBANON 

Baalbek 

Telephone: 01993 838 405 


Sidon 

Beiteddine 

SYRIA 

Byblos 

The harbour and Crusader castle, Byblos 

Byblos 

Byblos is one of the oldest continually 

inhabited cities in the world and its 

archaeological ruins point to beginnings in the 

fifth millennium BC. The city became more 

established in the third millennium BC, when 

the Phoenicians began to colonise the area. 

In later years, Byblos was subjected to 

numerous different influences, including the 

Amorites, the Egyptians, the Greeks, the 

Assyrians, the Persians and the Romans. 

Today, Byblos is dominated by its ruined 

Crusader castle and only by climbing its 

heights do you get a true sense of the scale 

and importance of the site. 

Tripoli 

In Lebanon you will usually travel with a driver 

or a driver and guide, depending on how much 

detail you prefer at the various historical sites. 

Vehicles are modern and air-conditioned. 

Getting around Beirut is very easy as there are 

plenty of taxis available, but some areas, such as 

Solidère and Hamra, are best explored on foot. 

When to go 


~ ~ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ~ 





Lebanon has a typically Mediterranean climate, 

with cool and often wet winters, and hot 

summers. The best times to travel are spring and 

autumn, when the temperatures are moderate. 

The mountain peaks remain snow-covered 

until the late spring, but visits at this time are 

still possible. 


Flight time from UK: 5-6 hours 

Prices 



for your trip to Lebanon on our website, 


your plans. 

Lebanon Uncovered 

This trip fits into one week and will introduce 

you to all the major archaeological sites, with 

time to experience the vibrant, cultural mix of 

modern-day Lebanon. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Fly from London to Beirut and 

transfer to your hotel. 

Discover Beirut, the National 

Museum and the redeveloped 

Solidère area. 

Travel north to visit the ruins of 

Byblos and the souqs of Tripoli. 

Go to Baalbek to visit the ruins and 

on the return journey stop to taste 

Lebanese wine at the Ksara Winery. 

Head south from Beirut to visit 

the port of Sidon, then up into the 

hills to visit the Ottoman palaces 

at Beiteddine. 

Continue exploring Beirut. 



Stay longer 

Take a few extra days to soak up Beirut’s unique 

atmosphere or continue into Syria and/or Jordan 

to complete your experience of the Levant, 

visiting the ancient sites of Palmyra and Petra 

during your trip. 

Tripoli is the biggest town in the north of 

Lebanon and seems to look east for its 

influences. The souqs are much more 

authentic than those of Sidon (which have 

been extensively tidied up in recent years) 

and the old town has some beautiful examples 

of Islamic architecture in the form of mosques, 

madrassas and hammams. The whole town is 

overlooked by the Citadel of Raymond de 

Saint Gilles, constructed during the era of 

Christian influence in the Crusades. A view 

from here shows the jumble of the old town 

below, with the Mediterranean in the distance. 

Soap on sale, Tripoli 

View over the Bekaa Valley 

www.audleytravel.com/lebanon ● 01993 838 405 ● Lebanon 59

Morocco 

Although less than a four hour flight 

from the United Kingdom, Morocco 

really is a world away. The narrow alleys 

of medinas, centuries old and encircled with 

solid ramparts, ring with the cries of 

artisans and merchants in a vivid swirl of 

colours and scents. Beyond the cities, 

towering mountains are home to hardy 

Berbers living in ancient, mud-built 

villages pinned to sheer slopes. Valleys 

carve through arid landscapes and palm 

plantations surround fortified villages that 

shelter amongst the first waves of the 

Sahara’s dunes. Morocco’s history has seen 

Roman invasions, Islam borne by Arabian 

soldiers, mighty Berber dynasties and the 

heavy hand of French colonialism. Each 

have left their own legacy; ruins, mosaics, 

tombs and mosques all speak of a long and 

chequered past, whilst also forming an 

intrinsic part of Morocco’s present. This 

heritage is not just a physical presence: 

Moroccan cuisine also bears witness to the 

country’s multicultural history. Traditional 

Arab influences are overlaid with 

indigenous Berber flavours and more than 

a touch of French sophistication. 

60

Audley in Morocco 

5 

1 

2 3 

4 

7 

8 

6 

Morocco’s diversity guarantees that it offers 

something to suit all tastes. Marrakesh and 

the High Atlas Mountains are traditionally 

favourite destinations, with the ancient city 

of Fez and the walled coastal town of 

Essaouira also becoming increasingly 

popular. Trips vary from six nights to 

three week comprehensive touring itineraries. 

For those looking for something a bit more 

adventurous, we can arrange treks in the 

Atlas Mountains, including ascents of Jebel 

Toubkal, or the chance to camp on the 

fringes of the Sahara Desert. 

Accommodation 

1 Djema El Fna 

As the sun sets, Marrakesh’s 

main square transforms into 

an open theatre with snake 

charmers, storytellers and 

acrobats. The huge variety of 

food stalls includes delicacies 

ranging from simple soups and 

kebabs to sheep brains. 

2 Toubkal Lodge 

Perched on a hillside 

overlooking the beautiful 

Azzaden Valley, the Toubkal 

Lodge offers the perfect retreat 

for those looking to escape 

the crowds. 

3 Mountain walks 

Whether you want a gentle 

stroll to a traditional Berber 

village, or to scale North Africa’s 

highest peak, the High Atlas are 

a stunning backdrop for walks 

and hikes. 

4 Ait Benhaddou 

The village of Ait Benhaddou 

has understandably earned 

many film credits, and continues 

to be one of the most 

picturesque mud-brick 

fortifications in the country. 

Dunes, the Erg Chebbi 

5 Essaouira 

With atmospheric ramparts 

and a large fishing fleet, 

Essaouira is a great place to 

unwind and enjoy the freshest 

fish in Morocco. 

6 The Erg Chebbi 

This vast sand-sea of rolling 

dunes is Morocco’s prime spot 

to witness a spectacular sunset. 

7 Voloubilis 

The furthest western outpost 

of the Roman Empire, Voloubilis 

boasts some impressive mosaics. 

8 Fez medina 

More traditional and 

conservative than Marrakesh, 

the winding maze of Fez’s 

medina has the feel of a 

living museum. 

Moroccan riads 

With central leafy courtyards 

and a handful of rooms, these 

charming boutique hotels offer 

an excellent base for any stay 

in Morocco. 

Moroccan cuisine 

Diverse and delicious, Moroccan 

food is like no other. Popular 

dishes range from tajines and 

couscous to flaky pastry pastilla. 

Finding local character accommodation is 

always high on our list of priorities. We have 

scoured the country for the best riads and 

hotels Morocco has to offer, and can 

recommend a wide range of properties from 

the simple and traditional to the modern and 

luxurious. In Marrakesh, Fez and Essaouira, 

we recommend staying inside the old city 

walls, known as the medina, as this gives you 

a real feel for the city. Alternatively, if you 

are looking for a peaceful escape, then there 

are areas outside the city that are worth 

considering. In more remote areas of the 

mountains and the arid south, there are a 

growing number of properties adapted from 

old mud and brick kasbahs, which also 

provide distinct character and comfort. 

Ramadan and Eid 

Being a Muslim country, certain key dates 

and festivals such as the month of Ramadan 

and the festivals of Eid can make a difference 

to your travel plans. They do not rule out a 

visit though, and by checking each year’s 

calendar we can make sure that your trip is 

planned accordingly. 

Find out more 


information about travel in Morocco, please 

see pages 76-77. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Morocco 


Voloubilis, Meknes 

Morocco 61

Djema el Fna, Marrakesh 

Marrakesh 

Marrakesh is a fabled city and the name itself is 

one of the most evocative in travel. Over its 

turbulent thousand-year history the city has fallen 

in and out of favour with the ruling sultans, but its 

function as a market and place of trade has 

continued regardless. Rising above this activity are 

proud and beautiful reminders of the city’s past in 

the towering minarets, ornate tombs and 

cavernous palaces. They are encircled by ochre 

ramparts, shaded beneath swaying palms and 

framed by the distant backdrop of the imposing 

Atlas Mountains. 

Marrakesh’s medina, souqs 

and gardens 

The old medina and souqs define the city of 

Marrakesh, a sprawling lattice of narrow alleyways 

that resound with the hum of the manufacture 

and sale of countless goods. At its heart is the 

Djema El Fna, an open space that comes alive at 

night, packed with entertainers and soothsayers. 

In contrast, Marrakesh’s many gardens offer a 

haven of tranquility in a busy city. They include 

the expansive Menara and Agdal gardens, but the 

best known are the more compact Majorelle 

Gardens inside the Ville Nouvelle. Here, vibrant 

Moroccan food 

Food is one of the great pleasures of travel 

in Morocco. Whether you eat in a restaurant 

or at a busy stall in the souq, you will be 

delighted with the unique flavours of local, 

fresh ingredients. Perhaps the most unusual 

dish is pastilla, which is minced pigeon meat 

cooked with sweet spices such as cinnamon 

and folded between layers of flaky pastry 

that is usually topped with a dusting of sugar. 

As strange as the combination may sound, 

the contrast of sweet and savoury is very 

tasty, although larger portions can be 

extremely rich. Tajine is a national dish, the 

name referring to the conical pot in which 

the stew is slowly cooked. Again, ingredients 

such as dates and apricots bring sweet 

flavours into a savoury dish, with red meat 

such as lamb or beef being slowly cooked 

bougainvillea and nasturtiums are combined 

with more exotic plants, all surrounding a striking, 

cobalt-blue art deco pavilion, which now houses 

a small Museum of Islamic Arts. Originally 

completed in 1924 by Jacques Majorelle, the 

gardens were lovingly restored by the late 

designer, Yves Saint Laurent, to whom there is 

a discreet shrine within the grounds. 

Learning to cook at La Maison Arabe 

until it is very tender. Couscous, another 

favourite, is made of semolina-like grains of 

half-baked flour that are repeatedly steamed 

and oiled so the grains do not stick together. 

This is often eaten with a tajine, although 

Moroccans tend to prefer to scoop up their 

sauce with a crispy flatbread. For those who 

want to find out more, certain riads offer half 

day cookery courses, particularly in Marrakesh. 

Majorelle Gardens, Marrakesh 

62

The Saadian Tombs, Marrakesh 

Souq, Marrakesh 

The riads of Marrakesh 

Traditional riads are our favourite places to stay 

in Morocco. These charming properties offer 

accommodation to just a few guests and provide 

a uniquely Moroccan experience. Many are 

converted from 19th or 20th century merchant’s 

houses. A typical riad has rooms which surround 

an enclosed courtyard with a garden or fountain. 

They tend to be small, with less than 20 rooms, 

and are furnished with a mixture of traditional 

and modern French-influenced styles. Breakfast is 

often included, and in most riads traditional 

evening meals can also be prepared with advance 

warning. We have included a few of our 

favourites here, and our specialists can advise 

you on which one to pick. 

RIAD KNIZA, MARRAKESH 

Built in the 18th century, Riad Kniza is a small, 

luxury ‘Hotel de Charme’ in the heart of the 

medina. The property has been restored by a 

renowned local antiques dealer, with some 

beautiful pieces artfully placed in the courtyards 

and cubby holes of the riad. The tastefully 

designed rooms and suites are built around three 

inner courtyards, where you will find a small 

plunge pool and spa facilities. Riad Kniza is an 

excellent base from which to explore the city and 

is only a short walk from the Djema El Fna, the 

souqs and the most important monuments and 

cultural treasures of the imperial city. 

Riad Djemanna, Marrakesh 

RIAD DJEMANNA, MARRAKESH 

This intimate, attractive riad has a small number 

of rooms, each decorated individually and with an 

en suite shower room. Built and adapted from 

two older riads, the two inner courtyards each 

have a small pool and comfortable sitting areas. 

Here you can relax, read and enjoy a mint tea, 

before moving into the small dining area, where 

traditional, homemade Moroccan dishes are 

served. The two buildings each have a roof 

La Sultana, Marrakesh 

Villa Des Orangers, Marrakesh 

terrace with sun loungers and great views over 

the medina, while the older of them has a small 

hammam and two massage rooms. Djemanna is a 

great choice for those looking for an authentic 

feel and good value in the heart of the medina. 

VILLA DES ORANGERS, 

MARRAKESH 

Just a short walk from the Djema El Fna, this 

Relais and Chateaux property deservedly enjoys a 

reputation as one of Marrakesh’s finest places to 

stay. The stylish and spacious suites provide a 

perfect mixture of old fashioned charm and 

modern facilities. Fountains gently burble in the 

courtyards, ruffling the rose petals on the water’s 

surface, while orange trees provide cooling shade. 

After a busy day of sightseeing, there is a 

luxurious spa area with a gym, hammam, pool 

and massage rooms. 

LA SULTANA, MARRAKESH 

La Sultana is a collection of charming individual 

riads, which combine to form a characterful, 

luxury hotel that feels much smaller than it 

actually is. Each of the 28 rooms has a different 

theme and design, reflecting the various influences 

that have impacted on Moroccan history. The 

spacious roof terraces directly overlook the 

Saadian Tombs while offering distant views of the 

snow-capped Atlas Mountains. The large pool is 

one of the best you will find in any riad and there 

is a first class spa for treatments after a busy day. 

www.audleytravel.com/morocco ● 01993 838 420 ● Morocco 63

Berber village, High Atlas 

KASBAH TAMADOT, 

HIGH ATLAS 

Just an hour’s drive from Marrakesh, Richard 

Branson’s Kasbah Tamadot showcases some of 

the finest examples of traditional art and design. 

No expense has been spared in restoring this 

remarkable building. Ornate lamps and carved 

decoration beautifully set off the stunning 

mountain backdrop, and each of the 24 rooms 

and suites has been individually furnished. The 

Kasbah Tamadot also boasts an indoor and 

outdoor pool, a fully-equipped gym, a tennis court 

and sweeping views over the surrounding valleys. 

KASBAH BAB OURIKA, 

HIGH ATLAS 

The stylish Kasbah Bab Ourika perches on a 

hilltop at the apex of the Ourika Valley. Built to 

resemble an authentic Moroccan kasbah, the 

interior is modern and minimal. All of the rooms 

are spacious, with muted colours and understated 

furnishings which create an airy feel. The Kasbah 

operates a number of environmentally friendly 

projects. The hot water supply is heated by solar 

panels and the property generates its own 

electricity, while all the food is locally sourced. 

Kasbah Tamadot, High Atlas 

The High Atlas Mountains 

The Atlas Mountains are in fact three distinct 

ranges that run in bands across Morocco’s 

interior, dividing it into strips of lower-lying land. 

Furthest north are the Middle Atlas, while the 

southerly range are the Anti Atlas that attempt 

to keep the desolate Western Sahara at bay. 

The central High Atlas range is the most dramatic 

and by far the most accessible, containing 

North Africa’s highest peak – the 4,167m Jebel 

Toubkal – as well as countless Berber villages 

terraced onto precipitous ledges. From Marrakesh, 

it only takes about 45 minutes to drive to the 

High Atlas, a wonderful chance to retreat to the 

clear mountain air. 

64 

DOMAINE MALIKA, HIGH ATLAS 

This hotel offers guests a genuine luxury 

boutique hotel experience. It is nestled in a 

large valley abundant in pine trees and olive 

groves, surrounded by the peaks of the High 

Atlas Mountains and near the Toubkal National 

Park. Domaine Malika offers seven modern 

rooms and suites, all boasting a beautiful decor 

and a warm atmosphere. Art deco is very much 

the theme throughout, contrasting beautifully 

with the extensive grounds and stunning 

scenery. The hotel offers a full range of spa 

treatments including a hammam, body wraps 

and various massages. 

Kasbah Bab Ourika, High Atlas

Young Berber girl, High Atlas 

Kasbah Du Toubkal, High Atlas 

Toubkal Lodge, High Atlas 

KASBAH DU TOUBKAL, 

HIGH ATLAS 

Located at the base of Jebel Toubkal, this remote 

hotel offers the perfect base for exploring the 

Atlas Mountains and getting to grips with Berber 

culture. The converted kasbah is built entirely 

along traditional lines, with plaster walls, wooden 

ceilings and simple, local decoration. There is a 

hammam for unwinding after a day in the 

mountains, and the roof terrace is perfect for a 

quiet mint tea or a welcome tajine as you bask in 

the inspiring scenery. As well as guided walks into 

the surrounding mountains, you can also visit 

nearby villages and hamlets that are home to 

many of the staff. As part of their sustainable 

tourism policy the Kasbah sets aside five per cent 

of all proceeds for local community projects. 

TOUBKAL LODGE, HIGH ATLAS 

The Kasbah du Toubkal’s trekking lodge allows 

guests to stay in the spectacular heart of the 

mountains without having to compromise on the 

standard of accommodation. The three en suite 

rooms have traditional wooden ceilings, carved 

doors and fossil marble in the bathrooms. 

Warmth is provided by solar powered underfloor 

heating and a wood burning stove in the lounge 

area, where picture windows lead out onto a 

terrace with spectacular views of the valley and 

villages below. The lodge is a fascinating day trek 

from the Kasbah du Toubkal. 

Walking in the Atlas 

With the spectacular scenery of the High 

Atlas, walking and trekking are popular 

options and can be easily arranged. Trips can 

range from a few hours of self guided 

rambling in the foothills, to full day treks. 

You can even undertake a longer trek lasting 

several days, where simple, remote lodges 

provide a soothing respite at the end of a 

tiring day. The ascent of Mount Toubkal is a 

favourite, requiring no technical expertise but 

a good level of fitness and commitment. 

Wherever you stay in the mountains, guided 

treks can be arranged directly with your 

hotel, or you can follow one of many well 

marked trails. Alternatively, your specialist can 

help you to plan a specific trek in advance. 

Man with donkey, High Atlas 

Trekking in the High Atlas 

Part of the appeal of walking in this part of 

the world is the chance to meet the local 

Berber people, who may invite you into their 

homes for some mint tea and a chat. For 

one of the highest mountain ranges on the 

continent, you will find the High Atlas to be 

surprisingly populated and accessible, but this 

is all part of the charm, with Berber villages 

perched on high peaks, framed by snowcapped 

Alpine summits. 


Fishing boats in Essaouira harbour 

The easygoing nature of the town, the dramatic 

ramparts and the excellent windsurfing have for 

many years attracted artists and bohemians alike, 

creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere quite 

different to the rest of the country. 

Riad Watier, Essaouira 

Essaouira 

On Morocco’s western Atlantic seaboard, 

Essaouira is one of the most picturesque towns 

in the country. In 1760, the Sultan Sidi 

Mohammed had a captive Frenchman design the 

town. He also promoted trade, making it a 

wealthy commercial centre. The fortifications that 

enclose the city shelter a charming, atmospheric 

and car-free town. Fresh fish arrive at the port 

via a fleet of small boats, and an attractive beach 

stretches off to the south, although Essaouira is 

anything but a conventional beach destination. 

66 

RIAD WATIER, ESSAOUIRA 

Riad Watier is an intimate place to stay, offering 

excellent value for money in the heart of the old 

medina. The comfortable rooms are tastefully 

decorated with neutral tones of white and beige, 

contrasting with bright splashes of colourful 

textiles and locally crafted wooden furniture. 

Two small roof terraces have views of the 

coastline and are perfect for a drink before 

dinner. The riad is one of the only hotels in town 

to have a full-time cook who prepares traditional 

Moroccan and French dishes that are served in its 

relaxed dining room. 

HEURE BLEUE PALAIS, 

ESSAOUIRA 

Possibly the most luxurious accommodation in 

Essaouira, Heure Bleue Palais is a beautifully 

renovated riad with an enviable location in the 

medina. It boasts an impressive inner courtyard 

and many extra facilities that the smaller riads do 

not have, such as a pool, spa, restaurant and bar. 

The rooms are decorated in a mixture of 

African, Portuguese and British colonial styles, 

while the roof terrace has views over the port 

and beach. 

Villa de L’O, Essaouira 

VILLA DE L’O, ESSAOUIRA 

The Villa de L’O is an 18th century riad that has 

been beautifully restored to a very high standard. 

It has an excellent location, just inside the medina 

walls and a few metres from the beach and souqs. 

The 12 rooms and suites surround a central leafy 

courtyard and breakfast area. Each has its own 

individual design and theme, from safari to 

traditional Moroccan and British colonial. The 

attractive rooftop terrace boasts sweeping views 

over Essaouira bay, making it a great place to 

relax over breakfast during the summer months. 

Heure Bleue Palais, Essaouira

Morocco at the movies 

Morocco lies at the heart of the North 

African film industry, welcoming both 

domestic and international productions. It 

first came to international attention in the 

1950s, when Orson Welles, on his auteurist 

sabbatical to Europe and beyond, set most 

of his brooding film Othello in Essaouira. 

His influence is still apparent today, with a 

slightly unflattering monument in Orson 

Welles Square, just outside the medina walls. 

Essaouira’s evocative setting, with the waves 

of the Atlantic crashing onto the ramparts, 

has made it a popular location for 

blockbusters, including Ridley Scott’s 

Kingdom of Heaven. 

Essaouira’s ramparts 

Ait Benhaddou, setting for Gladiator and other films 

Ridley Scott must have enjoyed Morocco, as he 

returned to use the atmospheric Ait Benhaddou 

for many scenes in Gladiator, the kasbah’s 

stunning cinematic location against the snowcapped 

backdrop of the Atlas Mountains making 

it perfect for the silver screen. Michael Douglas 

was also here for Jewel of the Nile, flying a plane 

into a specially built archway that remains part of 

the kasbah to this day. Close to Ait Benhaddou is 

a large film studio at Ouarzazate, which has 

drawn the international film industry to the area, 

for films like Babel and The Mummy. 

Morocco’s desert has been used to represent 

other places, including Abu Dhabi in Sex and 

the City 2, while the High Atlas Mountains 

became Tibet for Martin Scorsese’s Kundun, 

with the Kasbah du Toubkal standing in for a 

Buddhist monastery. 

The use of Morocco for such a wide range 

of films merely emphasises the diversity of 

stunning scenery there is to enjoy on a tour 

of the country. 

testament to their former wealth. Travelling this 

route and stopping off to explore these grandiose 

kasbahs is the perfect introduction to the very 

different atmosphere of the south. 

Ouarzazate 

Telouet valley 

Moroccan lady, Essaouira 

Atlas film studios, Ouarzazate 

Oued Mellah Highway 

The Oued Mellah (Salt River) is a former trade 

route, running through the High Atlas Mountains 

from Marrakesh, providing access to the oases 

and valleys of the south. It was traditionally 

controlled by the Glaoui tribe: their ksar of 

Ait Benhaddou, that guards the southern 

approaches, is one of the finest examples of 

pisé fortified village construction. The family 

kasbah at the northern entrance, Telouet, vividly 

conveys the clan’s importance: at its height it was 

a huge complex of brilliantly decorated reception 

rooms, cavernous kitchens, slave quarters and 

extensive subterranean dungeons. After 

independence, the Glaoui lost their pre-eminence. 

This decline was mirrored at Telouet where 

unstable walls have closed off much of the kasbah, 

leaving only the reception rooms as an eloquent 

Ouarzazate is a city of strategic and historic 

importance, which is sadly not well reflected in 

the determinedly modern architecture. It is, 

however, a great base from which to explore the 

castles, valleys and deserts of the south, and 

possesses a couple of interesting kasbahs itself. 

The restored Taourirt is the best of these, now 

standing at the heart of a complex of traditional 

housing, craft shops and cafés. 

Taourirt Kasbah, Ouarzazate 


Amerhidil Kasbah, Skoura 

Skoura 

Skoura is typical of the towns found along the 

Dades Valley. The modern part of town offers 

little to detain the visitor, but the palm plantations 

are criss-crossed by paths that run by crumbling 

pisé walls up to kasbahs in equally ruinous 

condition. The whole effect is quite beautiful and if 

you are going to break your journey anywhere in 

the Dades Valley, Skoura is a good place to do it. 

Berber lady, Dades Valley 

The Dades Valley 

The Dades Valley is the principle route between 

the desert and the ancient trading oases of Tifilalt. 

The main High Atlas are to the north, but at 

Todra the valley descends to a dramatic gorge 

that cuts through the mountains. It’s one of 

Morocco’s greatest natural sights, completed by 

a gently burbling stream and welcoming café to 

rest at. At its eastern end, the valley joins that 

of the Ziz River, where towering palms threaten 

to spill over the canyon edge into the valley 

hundreds of metres below. 

68 

LES JARDINS DE SKOURA, SKOURA 

Les Jardins de Skoura is a picturesque, small hotel 

set in a palm plantation about 20 minutes drive 

from the centre of town. The eight rooms and 

suites are rustic but tastefully decorated in a blend 

of French and Moroccan design. The large, shady 

gardens have plenty of recliners and cushions to 

tempt guests to relax next to the refreshing 

swimming pool. 

Dar Ahlam, Skoura 

Les Jardins de Skoura, Skoura 

DAR AHLAM, SKOURA 

Dar Ahlam is hidden away in the pretty palmeraie 

at the end of a series of winding tracks. Based 

around a 20th century converted kasbah, the chic 

suites and private villas are set in pretty gardens 

with an artfully designed pool. The main kasbah is 

a warren of scented corridors, alcoves and grand 

archways, very deliberately creating an exclusive, 

intimate atmosphere. Each meal is taken privately 

in a different location around the kasbah each 

evening, and there is a hammam, Jacuzzi and 

massage rooms.

The Dades Valley 

Woman, Taroudant 

Camel herder, Zagora 

Ramparts, Taroudant 

Zagora 

Dating from French colonial times, when the 

town was established as an administrative post in 

the Sahara, Zagora is a great base from which to 

explore the surrounding palm groves and kasbahs. 

It is flanked by the Zagora Mountain, from which 

the town got its name, and has a languorous 

charm all of its own, with dusty streets and a large 

Berber market which is held twice a week. 

Taroudant 

Taroudant is a wonderful little Berber town, 

completely encircled by ochre ramparts that 

gave rise to its moniker of ‘mini Marrakesh.’ 

The traditional souqs make it a great place to 

pick up souvenirs if you are not keen on the 

haggling that is inherent elsewhere. You can take 

an excursion to the nearby kasbah of Tioute, but 

Taroudant is really about relaxing and getting a 

little closer to rural Moroccan life. 

Dar Zitoune, Taroudant 

Traders in the souq, Taroudant 

DAR ZITOUNE, TAROUDANT 

Created in traditional style using local materials, 

Dar Zitoune is made up of charming bungalowtype 

rooms set in four acres of landscaped 

grounds with olive, palm and orange trees and a 

20 metre pool. Each room is air-conditioned, with 

satellite TV, a safe, phone and internet access. 

Dar Zitoune also has a small spa with a hammam 

and a choice of massage treatments, and the 

terrace restaurant prepares a delicious selection 

of Moroccan and European meals. 

The Anti Atlas 

The Anti Atlas is the hub of all commerce in 

Morocco’s grocery trade: banana and orange 

groves flourish among the extensive vegetable 

crops, and this is the only area in which the argan 

nut – virtually unique to Morocco – is abundant. 

The gentle foothills of the Anti Atlas are dotted 

with argan trees, where you might capture the 

definitive Moroccan snapshot of a goat in a tree, 

although it is likely it will have been tactically 

placed there to impress visitors. Here, the granite 

rock formations dominate the landscape, palm 

plantations line the beds of the valleys and the 

distinctive red painted stone houses enhance the 

region’s unique character. 

Mountain landscape, Anti Atlas 


Dunes, the Erg Chebbi 

The Erg Chebbi 

The Erg Chebbi are the most accessible dunes of 

the Sahara in Morocco. The best times to see 

them are at sunrise and sunset, when the 

changing light subtly alters their colour with each 

passing second, from butter yellow to gold, ochre 

and honey. A night camping in the desert is a 

special experience; the deep tranquillity seemingly 

a million miles away from Morocco’s hectic cities, 

and the perfect, clear night skies displaying a vast 

curtain of stars. Realistically you will need at least 

a three day round trip to fit the desert in, but it 

can easily be included in a longer itinerary 

between Marrakesh and the northern highlights. 

Sahara Desert Camp, the Erg Chebbi 

70 

SAHARA DESERT CAMP, 

THE ERG CHEBBI 

Tented accommodation has been an integral part 

of desert life for centuries, and this private, eight 

tent camp offers a taste of the nomadic Bedouin 

life with a touch of extra comfort. The location is 

fixed deep in the towering dunes of the Sahara, 

and there are permanent staff on hand to serve 

meals in the restaurant tent. Accommodation is in 

spacious white tents which have en suite facilities 

and are colourfully decorated with exotic rugs, 

cushions and a comfortable bed. A night here 

usually involves a camel ride to a dune-top 

lookout to take in the sunset, followed by a 

traditional Bedouin dinner back at camp with the 

chance to stargaze before retiring for the night. 

Bedouin man, the Erg Chebbi 

KASBAH DERKAOUA, 

THE ERG CHEBBI 

Situated close to the small village of Merzouga 

on the outskirts of the Erg Chebbi, Kasbah 

Derkaoua is ideal for anybody who is not keen 

on staying in a tent but would like to experience 

the majestic Sahara at close hand. There are 22 

relatively simple but characterful rooms, adorned 

with traditional rugs in striking Berber colours. 

The attractive garden is set amid scattered palms 

and olive trees, with tables and chairs tucked 

away in every corner and a swimming pool that is 

perfect for relaxing in after a hot day in the 

desert. The restaurant serves traditional Moroccan 

recipes and there are two cosy living rooms 

where you can unwind after dinner.

Kasbah on the edge of the Erg Chebbi 

Medina gate, Rabat 

Royal guard outside the Tour Hassan, Rabat 

Casablanca 

Thanks in part to the famous film of the same 

name, Casablanca features in many people’s 

concept of Morocco. In truth, none of the film 

was shot here and much of the city is like ports 

everywhere: quite crowded, industrial and full of 

thirsty sailors. It is a major hub, however, and is 

likely to feature somewhere on your itinerary if 

taking a longer trip to Morocco. While not 

offering many reasons to linger, it is the home of 

the Hassan II Mosque, undoubtedly the most 

impressive mosque in Morocco. Casablanca is also 

well stationed for visits to Rabat and itineraries 

exploring the north of the country. 

Hassan II Mosque 

Built using donations from the public, the Hassan 

II Mosque is one of the finest religious buildings 

in the Islamic world, surpassed in size only by 

the mosque in Mecca, with a prayer hall three 

times the size of St Paul’s Cathedral. While the 

scale is impressive, the mosque’s location on the 

shoreline is even more striking, with the huge 

minaret standing out against the crashing waves 

of the Atlantic. It was only fully completed in 

the 1990s, so it has none of the history 

associated with other mosques in the Middle 

East, but there is no doubting its aesthetic impact. 

For non-Muslims, entry is only permitted in 

guided groups. 

Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca 

Rabat 

Morocco’s capital shows two distinct faces: the 

modern, French-inspired town, with wide treelined 

boulevards, cafés and bistros frequented by 

government officials, and historic Rabat, centred 

on the 12th century walled medina built by the 

Almohad sultans. Here, a forest of columns and 

the lower section of a huge Moroccan-style 

minaret are all that remain of Sultan Yacoub el 

Mansour’s attempt to build a mosque that was 

designed to rival that of Samarra in Iraq. Slightly 

further from the centre of town is the Chellah – 

the tombs of Morocco’s Merenid dynasty – now 

a wonderfully atmospheric, crumbling set of ruins. 

Rabat’s medina is smaller and more relaxed than 

those of Marrakesh and Fez, making it ideal for a 

short stay and exploration under your own steam. 

Casablanca seafront with the Hassan II Mosque 

Villa Mandarine, Rabat 

VILLA MANDARINE, RABAT 

Lovingly transformed from an old family home 

into a charming, sunlit villa surrounded by two 

hectares of orange groves, the Villa Mandarine 

has been in the same French family for several 

generations. It is located about 15 minutes drive 

from the centre of Rabat, creating a tranquil 

atmosphere that makes it a great place to either 

begin or end your travels in Morocco. Most 

impressive of all are the extensive gardens, a 

wonderful place to wander and relax, with 

flowers blooming on every corner and lemon 

and grapefruit trees interspersed amongst the 

Seville oranges. The colourful, comfortable rooms 

have been individually decorated and display 

pieces of art that have been carefully chosen to 

complement each room’s character. The villa also 

has a large pool, a hammam and a gym. 


Tanneries, Fez 

Fez 

Periodically the capital of Morocco, the city of 

Fez has always occupied a place at the spiritual 

and political heart of the country. Founded in the 

9th century, many of the early settlers were 

Islamic refugees fleeing neighbouring Tunisia. 

The medina and souqs are probably the best in 

Morocco, beautifully situated on a picturesque 

hillside. Assaulting the senses with exotic sounds 

and scents, a visit here is an intense experience 

unlikely to be rivalled elsewhere. 

Riad Fes, Fez 

72 

LA MAISON BLEUE & 

RIAD MAISON BLEUE, FEZ 

One of the oldest riad-style properties in Fez, 

with a great location in the heart of the medina 

opposite the Batha Museum, La Maison Bleue is 

still one of the most desirable addresses in the 

city. Decoration is an ornate mixture of Moorish 

and European influences, with blue mosaic, white 

walls and original cedar doors. There is a roof 

terrace with excellent views over the medina 

and the restaurant is one of the best in Fez. 

The sister property, Riad Maison Bleue, is an 

equally attractive riad, and also boasts a 

hammam and pool. 

RIAD FES, FEZ 

Residents of Fez, or ‘Fassis’, describe their city in 

terms of walls: from the outside you will never 

understand her, but once within them you will 

get to know and love the real Fez. This sums up 

the Riad Fes perfectly as it is located in one of 

the narrow alleys of the medina, high blank walls 

giving no clue as to what lies inside. Once 

through the door, a delightful courtyard at the 

heart of the hotel with delicate blue and white 

tiles creates a wonderfully tranquil air. The rooms 

and suites are appointed with fin de siècle period 

pieces that evoke the grand living still expected 

by rich Fassi merchants. A recent expansion has 

added a discreet gym area and a large pool to 

the already excellent facilities. 

La Maison Bleue, Fez 

RYAD MABROUKA, FEZ 

A great value riad with friendly staff, a wonderful 

location in the centre of the medina and an 

enthusiastic and knowledgeable owner, this is a 

memorable introduction to the city. The interior 

courtyard has sculpted plasterwork on the 

columns, cedar wood doors and typical Moroccan 

mosaics, opening onto a garden with roses, citrus 

trees and a small pool in one corner. There is a 

comfortable roof terrace with sweeping medina 

views and the restaurant serves delicious, 

traditional Moroccan food. 

Ryad Mabrouka, Fez

Gate to medina, Fez 

Sweets in the souq, Meknes 

Children, Fez 

Fez’s artisans 

While Marrakesh is Morocco’s most 

celebrated destination, many prefer the 

more earthy, less polished charms of Fez. 

Whereas its southern cousin has been 

shrewdly manoeuvred towards tourism for 

decades, Fez still feels like a working city, 

with craftsmen doing the same daily tasks 

that have been passed down through 

their families for generations. Their locallyproduced 

wares are then sold on in a 

bustling warren of specialist souqs. 

There are a huge range of crafts represented 

in distinct areas of the medina, including 

carved wood, embroidery, henna painting, 

calligraphy, ceramics and copper. Wander the 

maze of souqs and you are likely to take 

home some great souvenirs. The stalls don’t 

Mosaic craftsmen, Fez 

White storks, Voloubilis 

Leather shoes for sale, Fez 

seem to suffer from being situated amid a 

dozen competitors selling virtually identical 

spoils. Whichever craft you happen upon, 

you will quickly be able to identify the 

particular sights, sounds and especially smells 

that are unique to that area. 

Fez is best known for the production of 

leather goods at the iconic tanneries that 

feature on virtually any visual depiction of 

the city. A visit to the tanneries in the Souq 

Dabbhagin, next to the dyers' quarter, is a 

sensory experience of colours, bustle and 

stench. Now a UNESCO World Heritage 

Site, it is fascinating to visit the area and 

watch the tanners at work, balancing 

between vats of vibrant dyes before plunging 

into the one they need, while spectators 

ardently snap photos from the sidelines. 

Meknes and Voloubilis 

Only a short distance west of Fez, the fortunes 

of the small market town of Meknes took a 

dramatic turn when Sultan Moulay Ismail 

assumed power in the 17th century and chose 

it for his royal court. Huge palaces, harems and 

miles of walls pierced with arched gates were 

constructed. After his death, the city’s influence 

seeped away, and earthquakes and rain reduced 

his massive works to subsiding mud-bricks: only 

the monumental gates hint at its former glory. 

A different period of history awaits at nearby 

Voloubilis, one of the Roman Empire’s key 

Moroccan settlements. Among the remains of 

buildings and streets, the colourful and vivid 

mosaic floors are the real highlights. 

Doorway, Meknes 


Chefchaouen and the Rif Mountains 

The Rif Mountains 

Separating the bulk of Morocco from the 

Mediterranean, the northern Rif Mountains have 

a long and turbulent history. Few rulers have 

ever completely subdued the indigenous tribes, 

and some areas are still off limits due to the 

widespread cultivation of marijuana. Immediately 

north of Fez, the scenery is a patchwork of 

agricultural greens, becoming more classically 

mountainous further north and east, where the 

snow-capped Jebel Tidighine overlooks the 

rolling peaks to one side and the Mediterranean 

coast to the other. One of the wildest, least 

modernised areas of Morocco, the Rif is 

nevertheless an excellent, off-the-beaten-track 

destination for a bit of trekking and to escape 

the crowds of Marrakesh. 

Pottery from the Rif Mountains 

74 

Street in Chefchaouen 

Chefchaouen 

Chefchaouen is undoubtedly one of the prettiest 

towns in Morocco, with a somewhat misleading 

reputation as a hippy outpost. While there is 

undeniably a bohemian feel, the web of narrow 

alleys, paths and stairways winding around tightly 

packed, blue and white buildings provides a 

wonderful setting against the rugged backdrop 

of the mountains. With only a small medina, 

Chefchaouen is the perfect place to spend a 

couple of days exploring at your own relaxed 

pace. While accommodation choices are perhaps 

not as luxurious as elsewhere, there is a distinct 

small town charm that refuses to fade. 

CASA HASSAN, CHEFCHAOUEN 

Based in an unbeatable central location in the 

medina and renowned for its high quality local 

food, the Casa Hassan is Chefchaouen’s bestknown 

place to stay. The property reflects a 

combination of traditional Moroccan design with 

a touch of Andalusian influence that is relatively 

common in the north of the country. The eight 

rooms are simple but comfortable and stylishly 

designed, and some boast fireplaces for the 

cooler winter months. There is a roof terrace 

with great views over the medina and 

surrounding countryside, and a selection of cosy 

communal sitting areas. 

Casa Hassan, Chefchaouen

Cap Spartel Lighthouse, Tangier 

Musicians, Tangier 

Fishing boats, Tangier 

Tangier 

For many years, Tangier enjoyed the status of 

an International Free Zone, free of taxes and 

duty and jointly administered by the French, 

Spanish and British. This helped to create a 

cosmopolitan and somewhat raffish society. 

Something of this spirit lingers and life in Tangier 

has more of an edge than in other Moroccan 

cities. There is an attractive old medina which 

blends Islamic and Berber influences. There are 

also some wonderful examples of art deco 

architecture, dating back to the louche days of 

the 20th century. A couple of days exploring the 

medina and surrounding highlights, interrupted 

by some relaxation time at the beach, is the 

perfect way to experience Tangier. 

Doorway, Asilah 

Asilah 

Asilah is a sleepy town on the Atlantic Coast that 

is slowly developing a reputation akin to Essaouira 

in the 1990s. It boasts a small, beautifully 

preserved medina with a picturesque location 

right by the shoreline. The town itself has a 

Spanish feel, with lovely whitewashed buildings 

and public artwork on the walls of many of the 

narrow alleyways. There are some beaches in the 

vicinity, which are not ideal for sunbathing but 

excellent for a relaxing stroll. Easy to navigate 

and soothingly low key, Asilah is perfect for a 

day of relaxation between Morocco’s better 

known destinations. 

Man in traditional burnous, Tangier 

El Minzah, Tangier 

EL MINZAH, TANGIER 

The grand old dame of Tangier’s accommodation, 

El Minzah was built in the 1930s and has opened 

its doors to a parade of the great and the good 

throughout the city’s decadent history. Minutes 

from the medina and the main square of the city, 

the Grand Socco, the hotel is a little faded around 

the edges but retains an air of grandeur and 

glamour. There is a large pool and other facilities 

that you would expect from a top hotel, while 

most of the 140 rooms offer attractive sea and 

medina views. 

City walls, Asilah 


MOROCCO 

Essaouira 

Marrakesh 

High Atlas 

Mountains 

Man in Taroudant souk 







Please call one of our Morocco specialists to start 


Telephone: 01993 838 420 


Morocco has an excellent road network covering 

most of the country. While some drives can be 

long, the scenery is often stunning, and covers a 

wide variety of terrain – from desert to mountain 

to coast. Most of your journeys will be in private 

air-conditioned vehicles with a driver. There is a 

limited train network between a few cities, but for 

most journeys road is the only option. 

Harbour, Essaouira 

76 

When to go 


~ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ~ ~ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ~ 





Morocco can be roughly divided into three 

climatic regions: the coast, the desert areas of the 

south, and the Rif and Atlas mountain ranges of 

the higher interior. Throughout the country, the 

temperature varies considerably over the course 

of a day and even on a summer evening a 

sweater may be necessary. In winter, 

temperatures can fall low enough for a 

widespread frost with snow on the mountains. 

Rain does fall during the winter, although not 

often and seldom in large amounts. The coastal 

regions can be visited year round: in the winter 

they are pleasantly mild, and bask in temperatures 

of mid-twenties Celsius in the summer. The high 

interior can also be visited year round, although it 

does get cold in winter, with averages in the 

high-teens Celsius. The southern desert areas 

experience a similar climate to the high interior, 

although summer temperatures are hot, with the 

average hovering around 40C. 

Time difference: Same as GMT, with 

seasonal differences 

Flight time from UK: 3.5 hours 

Prices 



for your trip to Morocco on our website, 


your plans. 

Marrakesh, Mountains 

& Coast 

A great introduction to the country, this ten 

day trip lets you experience a diverse range of 

scenery and culture. Starting in vibrant Marrakesh, 

you move on to the pretty seaside town of 

Essaouira before finishing with time in the 

stunning High Atlas. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Fly from the UK to Marrakesh. Spend 

the night at a riad in the medina. 

A full day guided city tour of 

Marrakesh, ending as the sun sets 

over the magical Djema El Fna. 

A day at leisure to further explore 

the city, perhaps moving into the 

New Town to visit the tranquil 

Majorelle Gardens. 

Head west with a short drive to 

Essaouira on the Atlantic coast. 

A day to explore bohemian 

Essaouira. 

Another day to enjoy Essaouira’s 

picturesque medina and great 

seafood. 

Travel to the strikingly different 

scenery of the High Atlas Mountains. 

Take a guided hike or walk one of 

the many marked trails in the 

mountains. 

Enjoy another walk or absorb the 

stunning views from your hotel. 

Fly back to the UK. 

Stay longer 

This itinerary could be extended by moving south 

and spending a night in the desert. Alternatively, 

if you are feeling energetic, spend longer in the 

High Atlas Mountains and trek to the summit of 

Mount Toubkal.


Rabat 

Fez 

Casablanca 

MOROCCO 

Meknes & 

Voloubilis 

Casablanca 

MOROCCO 

Asilah 

Tangier 

Chefchaouen 

Essaouira 

Marrakesh 

High Atlas 

Mountains 

Skoura 

The Erg 

Chebbi 

Marrakesh 

Ouarzazate 

Skoura 

The Erg 

Chebbi 

Rabat 

Casablanca 

Fez 

Meknes & 

Voloubilis 

Zagora 

Grand Tour of Morocco 

A grand tour exploring the main highlights of 

Morocco, including the imperial cities of Marrakesh, 

Fez, Meknes and Rabat, as well as the Sahara, the 

High Atlas Mountains and the coast. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Fly from the UK to Casablanca and 

spend the night at a city hotel. 

Visit the Hassan II Mosque before a 

short drive to Rabat. 

Stop at Meknes and Voloublis 

en route to your riad in the medina 

of Fez. 

A guided, full day city tour of 

timeless Fez. 

A long, scenic drive south to the 

desert and a night in a tent amongst 

the dunes of the Erg Chebbi. 

Journey the ‘route of 1,000 kasbahs’ 

to Skoura, stopping off at the rugged 

Todra Gorge. 

A day at leisure to relax in the palm 

groves of Skoura. 

Drive the stunning Tizi-n-Tichka pass 

into the Atlas Mountains. 

Try a guided mountain trek or hike 

under your own steam from your 

accommodation. 

Head for the coast, to Essaouira’s 

medina perched on the Atlantic. 


This shorter eight day trip combines a stay in 

vibrant Marrakesh with the desert scenery in the 

south of the country. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Fly from the UK to Marrakesh. 

A full day guided city tour of 

bustling Marrakesh. 

Drive south via the enchanting 

kasbah of Telouet. 

Head for the desert via Todra Gorge 

and enjoy a night under the stars in 

the Erg Chebbi. 

Watch the sun rise over the desert 

before heading southwest to Zagora. 

Travel along the Draa Valley back 

to Skoura. 

Take in the tranquil palm groves and 

crumbling kasbahs in the area. 

Fly from Ouarzazate to Casablanca 

and on to the UK. 

Stay longer 

Spend time trekking in the High Atlas Mountains 

or relax in the coastal town of Essaouira. 

Northern Explorer 

Discover the highlights of northern Morocco 

including the cities of Fez, Rabat and Meknes; 

the Roman ruins at Voloubilis and Lixus; relaxed 

medinas in Asilah and Chafchaouen; and coastal 

history in Tangiers. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Fly from the UK to Casablanca and 

spend a night in the city. 

Visit the impressive Hassan II 

Mosque, imperial Meknes and Roman 

Voloubilis en route to Fez. 

Discover Fez with the help of a 

private guide. 

Another day to explore the medina 

of Fez. 

Travel north to the picturesque, 

laid-back town of Chefchaouen. 

A day to explore the charming 

medina and verdant countryside 

around Chefchaouen. 

Head to Tangier for some time on 

Morocco’s northern coastline. 

Enjoy a guided tour of Tangier’s 

medina and other historic sights, 

before an afternoon roaming 

the beach. 

A short journey to Asilah’s relatively 

undiscovered and very pretty medina. 

Drive south along the coast to Rabat. 

Day 11 

A day to wander the medina and 

stroll along the beach. 

Day 11 

Spend a day exploring the quaint 

medina of Morocco’s capital. 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Day 15 

Drive inland to Marrakesh. 

A full day guided tour of the souqs, 

squares, palaces and gardens of 

Marrakesh. 

One more day at leisure in 

Marrakesh. 

Fly back to the UK. 

Day 12 

Return to Casablanca for a flight to 

the UK. 

Stay longer 

You could add a few days in vibrant Marrakesh, 

or take in the mountain scenery of the High Atlas. 

Grand Mosque, Chefchaouen 

Bedouin man in the Erg Chebbi 


Tunisia 

Tunisia’s reputation as just a 

beach destination is slowly 

changing, as attention turns to the 

cultural aspects of this small but 

fascinating Mediterranean country. 

Evidence of Tunisia’s chequered 

history can be found in the ruins of 

Carthage, the remains of its Roman 

past and in its Arab medinas and 

colonial towns. The mixture of 

influences has helped to shape modern 

Tunisia, which continues to take 

inspiration from both east and west. 

Aside from its historical legacy, there 

are enchanting landscapes to explore; 

from the mountains in the northwest, 

to the green pastures of the central 

Tell region and on to the dry, sandy 

expanses of the Sahara in the south. 

Proud of their history and culture, 

Tunisians are warm and welcoming 

hosts, eager to show off their country. 

Two men relaxing, Tunis 

3 

1 The medina of Tunis 

The UNESCO-protected 

medina has winding alleyways, 

mosques and souqs. 

7 

6 

1 2 

5 

4 

8 

2 The Bardo Museum 

One of the world’s finest 

collections of Roman mosaics, 

all housed within a beautiful 

former royal palace. 

3 Sidi Bou Said 

This village on the outskirts of 

Tunis has attracted many artists 

over the years, drawn by its 

picturesque setting overlooking 

the Bay of Tunis. 

4 El Jem 

The best-preserved amphitheatre 

of the Roman world. 

Mosaic, Bardo Museum 

5 Great Mosque of 

Kairouan 

The oldest mosque in North 

Africa, established during the 

Arab conquests of the 7th 

century AD. 

6 Dougga 

One of Africa’s great Roman 

cities, Dougga’s well-preserved 

buildings are enhanced by their 

rural location in the depths of 

the Tunisian countryside. 

7 

Tamerza 

In the southwest of Tunisia lies 

an intriguing landscape of narrow 

gorges and abandoned villages. 

8 

Jerba 

Fort of Borj Ghazi Mustapha, Jerba 

This small island has a unique 

culture that is different from the 

rest of the country. 

78

Amphitheatre, El Jem 

Tunis 

Central Tunis has two distinct areas, the 

UNESCO-protected Arab medina, and the new 

town, which was built during the colonial era on 

reclaimed land. Greater Tunis stretches east, 

across Lac de Tunis to the coastal suburbs of 

Carthage, Sidi Bou Said and Gammarth. The 

medina hides mosques, hammams and souqs, as 

well as beautifully restored houses, some of which 

have been converted into hotels and restaurants. 

The new town centres around Avenue Habib 

Bourguiba, a wide boulevard dotted with cafés. 

The architecture of this area is influenced by 

French styles, with many buildings showing hints 

of art deco design. Close to the centre is the 

Bardo Museum, which houses some of the 

best examples of Roman mosaics. The beauty 

of the mosaics is matched by their surroundings, 

the Bardo being a former royal palace with 

large vaulted rooms, stained glass and carved 

stucco ceilings. 

Sidi Bou Said 

Sidi Bou Said is a small village lying on the 

outskirts of the capital, overlooking the Bay of 

Tunis with unparalleled views to the Cap Bon 

Peninsula and Jebel Bou Kournine, a distinctive 

double-peaked mountain. Its whitewashed 

buildings with their blue windows and doors have 

been attracting artists for years and the cobbled 

streets offer respite from the bustle of central 

Tunis. The cafés dotted around the village are 

idyllic settings for sampling Tunisian mint tea, 

traditionally served with pine nuts. 

DAR SAID, SIDI BOU SAID 

Dar Said is a small family owned hotel at the 

heart of Sidi Bou Said. The house was originally 

a residence and dates back to the mid 19th 

century. Converted into a hotel in the 1990s, it 

has just 24 bedrooms and retains a quiet and 

intimate atmosphere. Featuring a small hammam 

and pool, with a terrace looking out on to the 

Mediterranean. Dar Zarrouk Restaurant is situated 

just opposite the hotel and serves delicious 

Tunisian and French cuisine. 

Kairouan 

Kairouan is the most sacred Islamic city in Tunisia 

and one of the holiest of Islam. Invading Arab 

forces arrived here in the 7th century AD and 

established the city, building the first mosque in 

North Africa. The Great Mosque still stands 

(though it has been rebuilt several times) and its 

simple architectural structure makes it a place of 

great serenity and an essential component of any 

visit to the town. The medina of Kairouan also 

has a number of interesting mosques and souqs 

and is known for its carpet manufacturing, making 

it the best place to purchase carpets in Tunisia. 

Great Mosque of Kairouan 

Audley in Tunisia 

Tunisia is within easy reach of the UK, with 

scheduled flights from both Heathrow and 

Gatwick. We usually organise trips with a car 

and driver, with guides available if you wish 

to explore some of the sites in a bit more 

detail. If you want more flexibility, then there 

is also the option of discovering the country 

independently on a self-drive tour. Some of 

the sites around Tunis can be very busy, but 

we can advise you on ways to escape the 

crowds and discover areas which most 

visitors never reach. While many operators 

offer beach holidays in places like Sousse 

and Hammamet, and include just a few 

excursions, Tunisia has some amazing sights 

and to experience these we recommend a 

more comprehensive tour of the country. 

Accommodation 

Tunisia has started to follow the Moroccan 

trend for converting old houses into hotels. 

These are atmospheric places to stay and can 

be found in Tunis, Sidi Bou Said and Jerba. 

Travellers interested in experiencing rural 

Tunisian life may wish to consider a 

guesthouse near El Kef in the heart of the 

Tell region, or an olive farm located between 

Tunis and Kairouan. Elsewhere, there are 

international hotels and resorts available, 

most of which have excellent spa facilities 

along with swimming pools and beaches. 

Sidi Bou Said 

Find out more 


information about travel in Tunisia, please 

see page 81. 

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Discuss your plans with our Tunisia 


Tunisia 79

Ksar Ouled Soltane, near Tataouine 

Archaeological sites 

The ruins of Tunisia date from the Megalithic 

through to the Roman and Byzantine eras. 

With hundreds of registered archaeological 

sites, it would be impossible to visit them all 

in a short trip. Here we have highlighted four 

of the most important ones. 

Carthage 

The ruins of Carthage are northeast of 

central Tunis. Most of the sites were either 

destroyed or incorporated into later 

Roman sites. The Roman political slogan 

‘Carthago delenda est’ (Carthage must be 

destroyed) was carried out with ferocity by 

the invading legionaries. 

Carthage and the Bay of Tunis 

The Capitol, Dougga 

Bulla Regia 

Located in the west of Tunisia, Bulla Regia is 

known for its underground theatre and 

mosaics. Famed at the time for its loose 

morality, St Augustine passed through in the 

4th century, exhorting its inhabitants to 

behave in a more decorous manner. 

Dougga 

Dougga overlooks picturesque rolling 

countryside and olive tree orchards. The site 

features a range of ruins, from the monumental 

Capitol and Libyo-Punic Mausoleum to the 

more everyday bathhouses and latrines. 

El Jem 

The amphitheatre at El Jem towers over the 

surrounding area and can be seen from miles 

away when travelling to the site along the 

Roman roads. 

The southwest 

The south of Tunisia feels distinctly different from 

the northern parts of the country, in part due to 

its desert climate. In the southwest is the village 

of Tamerza, surrounded by a series of spectacular 

gorges and waterfalls. On the edge of Tunisia’s 

largest salt flat, the Chott El Jerid, lies the desert 

oasis of Tozeur. Birthplace of Tunisia’s literary 

hero, Abou Kacem El-Chebbi, Tozeur is an 

interesting place to visit for many reasons, not 

least to taste the famous dates known as ‘deglet 

en-nour’ (fingers of light). The town’s buildings 

are constructed using mud brick, laid in extremely 

complex patterns, which give even the most 

ordinary street an ornate façade. 

The southeast 

The southeast is the gateway to the Sahara, with 

visits to the rolling dunes possible around Ksar 

Ghilane, a remote desert outpost. Further east 

are a series of Berber settlements which feature 

architectural feats of engineering, including the 

distinctive ksours (fortified granaries) around 

Tataouine, and troglodyte dwellings, which are 

found several metres below ground. These are 

designed to protect their inhabitants from the 

effects of the Saharan sun. The village of Matmata 

has the best examples of these dwellings, some 

of which are still in use and have been chosen as 

film locations by Hollywood directors. 

80



Lady weaving, Jerba 

Abandoned village of Tamerza 

Jerba 

The island of Jerba is thought to be the 

‘Land of the Lotus Eaters’ in the legendary 

stories of Ulysses and is a charming, laid-back 

place to visit, especially at the end of a tour 

of Tunisia. The division from the mainland is 

apparent in the distinct character and way of 

life of the Jerban people. Bicycles and mopeds 

are still the preferred modes of transport, so 

a peaceful atmosphere reigns. Jerba has 

some interesting Islamic architecture, as well 

El Ghriba Synagogue, which is testament to the 

long history of the island’s Jewish population. 

The itinerary shown is designed to give you a 

flavour of what is possible, and is a route that 

works particularly well. We can use this as a basis 

to plan your trip or can design a completely 


Please call one of our Tunisia specialists to start 


Telephone: 01993 838 445 


Distances in Tunisia are relatively short so road 

travel is entirely feasible, this can be with a driver 

or you can choose to self-drive. Roads between 

towns are in good condition, with one motorway 

now linking the north and south of the country. 

Cities can be very busy, but once out in the rural 

areas, the roads are much quieter. 

When to go 


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Tunisia’s climate is ruled by its proximity to the 

Mediterranean making the winter months (from 

November to early March), cool, grey and quite 

damp, and therefore not particularly good times 

to travel. The best time to go is the late spring, 

when the temperatures are warm and the spring 

flowers are in bloom around the archaeological 

sites. The south should be avoided in high 

summer because it’s too hot, but this is a good 

time to visit the north as the archaeological sites 

are even quieter than usual. 



Prices 


budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline 

prices for your trip to Tunisia on our website, 


your plans. 

Roman Tunisia 

This itinerary includes visits to the major Roman 

sites in the north of Tunisia, giving a real insight 

into the classical history of the country and the 

way of life in typical Roman cities such as Dougga. 

In addition, there is time to explore the Arab 

medinas of Tunis, El Kef and Kairouan and enjoy 

Tunisia’s coastline at Sidi Bou Said and Carthage. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Bulla Regia 

El Kef 

Dougga 

Maktar 

Sidi Bou Said 

Kairouan 

Carthage 

Tunis 

Thuburbo Majus 

El Jem 

Fly from the UK to Tunis, where you 

stay for two nights. 

Morning visit to the Bardo Museum 

followed by an afternoon guided tour 

of Tunis medina. 

Drive to the Roman sites of Bulla 

Regia and Dougga en route to El Kef 

where you will spend the night. 

Head south from El Kef to Kairouan, 

stopping to visit the Roman site of 

Maktar on your way. 

Explore Kairouan in the morning and 

then travel to El Jem to visit the 

amphitheatre and mosaics. 

Head north to Sidi Bou Said with the 

chance to visit the ruins of Thuburbo 

Majus on the way. 

Explore the Punic and Roman ruins 

of Carthage in the morning, with the 

rest of the day free to spend in Sidi 

Bou Said. 

Fly from Tunis to the UK, arriving 

back the same day. 

Stay longer 

The itinerary could be extended by exploring 

the south; visiting Tamerza, Tozeur, Ksar Ghilane 

or Jerba, forming a grand tour of Tunisia and 

giving a comprehensive insight into Tunisia’s 

history and culture. 

Jerban women wearing traditional dress 

Er-Riadh Mosque, Jerba 

Traditional door, Sidi Bou Said 

www.audleytravel.com/tunisia ● 01993 838 445 ● Tunisia 81

Libya 

Libya is a vast country which, in 

recent years, has experienced an 

interesting and controversial political 

history. With abundant archaeological 

sites and beautiful natural landscapes, 

it has a lot to offer the more 

adventurous visitor, while a range 

of historical influences has created a 

modern day cultural melting pot. 

In classical times, the Phoenicians, 

Greeks and Romans all left their mark 

at sites such as Cyrene and Leptis 

Magna along the north coast. Berber 

populations dominate in the west of 

the country, with their own customs 

and architecture. In the south, you will 

find traditional desert cultures and a 

warm welcome from the tribal Tuareg 

people, many of whom count the 

Akakus Mountains and the Ubari 

Sand Sea as their home. 

Leptis Magna 

4 

Ghadames 

An extraordinary desert town, 

Ghadames is quite unlike any 

other settlement in Africa. 

5 

The Ubari Sand Sea 

4 

5 

6 

1 

2 

3 

Libyan men 

1 Tripoli medina 

The Tripoli medina exudes a 

distinctive charm and is a place 

where locals go about their 

daily lives. 

2 Leptis Magna 

Libya’s best known Roman site, 

the magnificent ruins of Leptis 

Magna have an awe-inspiring 

location beside the 

Mediterranean. 

Towering dunes form the 

Ubari Sand Sea in the south 

of Libya, but even more 

astounding are the deep, salty 

lakes, perfect for a swim after 

a desert expedition. 

6 Ancient rock art in 

the Akakus Mountains 

Weird and wonderful 

geographical features aside, 

the Akakus Mountains conceal 

some of the greatest examples 

of ancient rock art to be found 

in the world. 

3 

Cyrene 

Sited on a hillside overlooking a 

plain that stretches all the way 

to the Mediterranean, Cyrene is 

still only partially excavated. It is 

a delight for historians and 

photographers alike. 

Desert landscape, Akakus Mountains 

82

Libyan men outside a Tripoli mosque 

Tripoli and surrounds 

Tripoli is, like many North African cities, divided 

into two distinct areas, the traditional Arab 

medina and the colonial era new town. The 

medina is unlike many others across the region in 

that it remains a place for locals to go about their 

daily lives; living, trading and working within its 

walls. The new town has wonderful colonial 

buildings, many of which have been converted 

over the years: the cathedral became a mosque, 

and the castle and palace now house the National 

Museum and the Libya Museum. Outside Tripoli 

are the two major Roman sites of the region, 

Leptis Magna and Sabratha. Leptis Magna was the 

birthplace of the Roman Empire’s only African 

emperor and its importance is clear to see in the 

monumental arches and the grandeur of its public 

buildings. Sabratha is sometimes overlooked and 

like Leptis Magna it lies next to the Mediterranean 

Sea. Its theatre is of particular interest, having 

been fully restored to its former glory. 

Theatre, Sabratha 

Cyrenaica 

The east of Libya is known as Cyrenaica, taken 

from the name of its most important 

archaeological site, Cyrene. The region is famed 

for its long history of rebellion and its Green 

Mountains, which are covered in pine trees. 

It was here that the independence leader, Omar 

Al-Mukhtar, hid during the revolt against the 

Italians. There is a wealth of archaeological ruins 

and even small sites such as Tocra and Ptolemais 

reveal plenty about the classical history of the 

area. Qasr Libya, the ruins of a Roman villa, has 

some of the country’s most impressive mosaics 

and Slontah is an unusual pre-Islamic temple. 

A short detour to see this tiny site is essential. 

Ghadames 

Ghadames is a gateway to the Sahara, its location 

on Libya’s borders explained by its history as a 

staging post on Africa’s trading routes. This 

isolated position meant that Ghadames developed 

a unique culture. The old walled part of the town 

has been declared a World Heritage Site by 

UNESCO, and here you will find a tranquil 

ancient city made of mud, lime and palm tree 

trunks. A network of covered alleyways and 

attached roofs allows passage from one house 

to the next. 

Street in Ghadames 

The Fezzan 

Southwest Libya was known as the Fezzan during 

the colonial period and includes the sweeping 

desert landscapes of the Akakus Mountains and 

the Ubari Sand Sea. These areas are best 

explored on a desert expedition, travelling in 

4x4 vehicles with experienced guides and drivers. 

You will camp in the wild, miles from the nearest 

villages. At least five days are required to make 

the most of this trip, so that you can see the best 

examples of the ancient rock art found in the 

Akakus. You can also enjoy the unique silence in 

the desert and the exhilarating drives over the 

Ubari dunes, leaving just enough time for a swim 

at one of the desert lakes. Though not without 

their hardships, these desert expeditions reward 

travellers with spectacular vistas. 

Ubari Sand Sea 

Audley in Libya 

Libya is just a short flight from Europe, but 

it is a large country so it will take at least 

twelve days to see the main archaeological 

sites as well as Tripoli and Ghadames. Even 

before the revolution, tourism infrastructure 

was in its infancy, so it is best to travel to 

Libya with an adventurous spirit. The 

standard of accommodation and service may 

be well below what would be expected in 

other countries in the region, and visitors 

should not be surprised if their internal flights 

or accommodation are changed with little 

notice. As long as you bear all these points in 

mind, you will be rewarded by a warm 

welcome from the Libyan people, who are 

keen to re-engage with the outside world. 

For the duration of the trip, you will be 

accompanied by a Libyan guide and driver 

and if you do venture into the desert then 

you will be travelling in 4x4 vehicles, 

accompanied by experienced drivers, guides 

and a cook. 

Accommodation 

Most places in Libya have only one or two 

accommodation options, and hotels in places 

like Ghadames and Cyrenaica tend to cater 

for large groups of visitors and are a little 

characterless. The exception to this is Tripoli 

where there are a number of five star, 

international hotels which welcome visitors 

and business people, as well as a characterful 

option within the walls of the medina and a 

wonderfully welcoming guesthouse. On 

desert expeditions, you will be staying in 

small tents which are easy to pitch, although 

you may wish to spend one night out in the 

open for a view of the stars. 

Find out more 


information about travel in Libya, please 

see our website. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Libya 


Libya 83

Iran 

Prepare to be surprised. This huge 

country, three times the size of France, 

contains a bewildering array of world-class 

sites, lasting testament to a tumultuous 

5,000 year history that has left an indelible 

mark on both East and West. The country’s 

bounty of historic places is without equal in 

the Islamic world. The jewel in the crown is 

Esfahan, a beautiful city and shining 

example of glorious Islamic architecture and 

Persian culture, it has one of the biggest and 

most spectacular city squares in the world. 

Together with Shiraz and nearby Persepolis, 

this triumvirate forms the core of any 

journey to the country. Away from these 

highlights, there is much else to drink in. In 

the northwest the city of Tabriz has been 

famous for the manufacture of carpets for a 

thousand years. In the far south are the 

ancient remains of the Elamite civilisation 

at Choqa Zanbil. In the centre are the 

picturesque villages of the Zagros 

Mountains, giving way to the deserts of 

Eastern Iran and the cities of Kerman. 

To the east is the city of Mashhad, home to 

the mausoleum of Imam Reza, a direct 

descendant of the Prophet Mohammed. 

84

Audley in Iran 

7 

5 

2 

6 

1 

4 

3 

We feel that Iran is a greatly underrated 

destination and much misunderstood. We 

have taken the time to go and visit ourselves, 

to see what the situation is truly like. Every 

one of us who has been has come back 

enamoured with the friendliness of the 

people, the diversity of the culture and the 

sheer unexpectedness of it all. For those 

who want to really discover every nook and 

cranny, we suggest having a national guide, 

who would accompany you throughout your 

time in the country. For those who prefer a 

little more independence, we can arrange a 

driver to accompany you – he or she would 

speak enough English to communicate, but 

would leave you to discover the sights. 

Whichever style of travel you choose – 

you can be sure of a memorable visit to 

this fascinating country. 

Accommodation 

4 Yazd 

This desert city has winding 

lanes and wind towers. 

5 Abyaneh 

Experience rural Iran in this 

picturesque, verdant village. 

7 Kashan 

A majestic bazaar and some 

beautiful Qajar era mansions. 

As a result of sanctions, there are none of 

the international hotel chains in Iran that are 

found in most other countries of the world. 

The standards of service and facilities in 

Iranian hotels are not what they might be, 

however, every place of interest does have 

clean, comfortable options. While there are 

many reasons to visit Iran, the quality of the 

hotels there is not one of them. A few 

places, Yazd in particular, do have some 

character options which we try to use 

whenever possible. 

Wind towers, Yazd 

1 Esfahan 

Iran’s masterpiece, an exquisite 

city and one of the most 

beautiful in the Islamic world. 

6 Tehran 

Iran’s capital is difficult to love – 

but it has some great museums 

and impressive palaces. 

Teahouse, Esfahan 

2 Shiraz 

A relaxed city and the final 

resting place of many of Iran’s 

great poets, Shiraz is an ideal 

base from which to explore the 

region’s antiquities. 

3 Persepolis 

Marvel at this ancient city, once 

the heart of one of the world’s 

mightiest empires, hidden under 

the sands for thousands of years. 

Find out more 


information about travel in Iran, please see 

page 89. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Iran 


Tomb of Hafez, Shiraz 

Statue, Persepolis 

Iran 85

Bazaar, Shiraz 

Tehran 

There is nowhere better in Iran than Tehran to 

get an overview of Persian history and culture. 

The museums here are amongst the best in the 

Middle East and are an essential part of any visit. 

The pick of them is probably the Golestan Palace, 

though the National Museum of Iran and the 

National Jewels Museum are fantastic to stroll 

through. Like any other capital Tehran has its 

fair share of problems. On some days the traffic 

can seem like a glacial flow, but try not to let 

this negative image blot out the many positives 

of a visit here. 

Shiraz 

There’s no wine here. If there were this would 

be the most convivial city in the Middle East. The 

locals are friendly, liberal and literate; the climate 

is pleasant for most of the year; and the nearby 

attractions of Persepolis and Naqsh-e-Rostam are 

the equal of anything in Athens or Rome. If you 

like bazaars then welcome to the best one in Iran, 

selling everything from carpets to cake under a 

vaulted ceiling dating back 250 years. Shiraz also 

excels in architecture – indeed many of its finest 

buildings were built to rival Esfahan. 

Detail, Golestan Palace, Tehran 

Persepolis and the 

Persian Empire 

Beneath the searing heat of the Persian sun, 

backed by Mt Rahmat, lie the ruins of the 

once-great Achaemenid Empire. Smothered 

in sand and rock until the 1930s, this amazing 

site was once a religious and cultural 

powerhouse, dominating peoples as disparate 

as the Scythians of Siberia and the Copts of 

Ethiopia. It is this ancient empire that 

has given today’s Iranians a distinctly 

un-Arabic culture and character. Whilst most 

Iranians see themselves as Islamic, they do 

not consider themselves as Arabic, but as 

distinctly Iranian or Persian. This is a direct 

consequence of the vast empire once 

controlled from Persepolis, which continues 

to loom large in the national psyche. 

Columns of the Great Hall, Persepolis 

Carving detail, Persepolis 

Persepolis succumbed finally to Alexander 

the Great, whose thirst for conquest was so 

thoroughly slaked here that he left only 

rubble – though this alone is supremely 

impressive, reminding the casual visitor 

of the sheer depth and longevity of Persian 

history and culture. Anyone with even a 

passing interest in antiquity should make a 

visit here their first priority. 

86

Bridge of 33 arches, Esfahan Iman Mosque, Esfahan Ceiling of Iman Mosque, Esfahan 

Shah Abbas, who made Esfahan his capital 

Esfahan 

Imagine an architectural portfolio so astonishing 

in its craftsmanship that it epitomises the best of 

five hundred years of Islamic culture, and you 

have imagined Esfahan. There are at least a dozen 

sights of dazzling quality here, including three of 

the finest religious buildings anywhere – the Jame, 

Imam and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosques. These would 

rank alongside the glories of Damascus, 

Samarkand and Istanbul in any list of the mustsees 

of the Islamic world. Nothing can prepare 

you for the heart-stopping moment when you 

first see the scale and grandeur of Imam Square, 

the world’s second largest public space, containing 

within it the zenith of Persian art and architecture. 

Walking along the banks of the Zayandeh River, 

exploring the Armenian quarter or simply 

relaxing in a teahouse, Esfahan is an unmitigated 

delight and one of the best places in Iran to 

meet local people, for whom this city is their 

proudest achievement. 

Schoolgirls playing, Esfahan 

THE ABBASI, ESFAHAN 

Built around the remains of a caravanserai 

originally established by Shah Abbas, The Abbasi 

is Esfahan’s, if not Iran’s, best and most 

characterful hotel – though as with the rest of 

Iran, do not expect outstanding service. In many 

respects, The Abbasi is like a museum. Everything 

is on a grand scale, and walking into the huge 

courtyard cannot fail to impress. There is a 

swimming pool and sauna (single sex only, 

available on a rotational basis) and a choice of 

attractive restaurants, with outdoor dining in the 

central courtyard a real treat in spring and 

summer. The location, within walking distance of 

Imam Square, cannot be faulted. The ornate 

breakfast room is remarkable and may just be 

the grandest room you’ll ever have breakfast in! 

Courtyard at The Abbasi, Esfahan 

Carpet shop, Esfahan 

Iman Square, Esfahan 

www.audleytravel.com/iran ● 01993 838 265 ● Iran 87

Badgirs, Yazd 

Mosaic at Friday mosque, Yazd 

Woman with her donkey, Abyaneh 

Old town, Yazd 

Yazd 

The centre of Iran is dominated by the Zagros 

mountains and the Dasht-e Kavir desert. 

Squeezed between the two is Yazd, the centre 

of Zoroastrianism and an excellent place to 

walk through and explore. The architecture 

here is unique in Iran, particularly the traditional 

badgir towers – providing an ancient form of 

air-conditioning to the adobe houses below. 

Yazd is also home to some excellent, characterful 

accommodation options tucked away in the 

corners of the bazaar. 

Courtyard hotel, Yazd 

COURTYARD HOTELS, YAZD 

Yazd has always been a wealthy town owing to 

its location on key trade routes. In the 18th and 

19th centuries, merchants in the town built grand 

homes, set around several courtyards. Some of 

these have now been converted into hotels, and 

offer some of the country’s most characterful 

accommodation. Many are in the heart of the 

old town, amongst winding lanes, adding to the 

atmosphere. Two of our favourites are the Hotel 

Dad and the Fahadan, but there are many others. 

Village of Abyaneh 

Further afield 

Most visitors to Iran take in the key cities of 

Esfahan, Shiraz and Yazd, but this is a large, 

diverse country, with much else to offer. An 

easy place to add on to an itinerary is the village 

of Abyaneh, close to Esfahan. This pretty village 

is unspoilt, accessible, and gives a taste of rural 

life in Iran. To the north of the capital are the 

Alborz Mountains and the Caspian Sea. Heading 

west, Kurds and Azaris start to dominate, and 

the landscape is surprisingly verdant. The city 

of Tabriz, home to some of the world’s greatest 

carpet makers is a great base to explore the 

surrounding region – including the village of 

Kandovan, where the entire population lives 

in caves. 

Between Tehran and the Iraqi border are the 

Kurdish provinces, full of precipitous mountain 

villages, stark and haunting scenery and a culture 

that has weathered the vicissitudes of history for 

thousands of years. East of Tehran, the landscape 

becomes much drier and desert like. The city of 

Mashhad, near the Turkmenistan border is home 

to Iran’s holiest shrine, the tomb of Shia Islam’s 

eighth Imam, Imam Reza. A visit here is to truly 

enter the heart of the Shia, and therefore the 

heart of the Iranian experience. 

Building for performing of rituals, Yazd 

88 

Zoroastrian Fire Temple, Yazd








Please call one of our Iran specialists to start 


Esfahan 

Tehran 

Abyaneh 

Yazd 

Tehran 

Telephone: 01993 838 265 

Shiraz 

Persepolis 

Esfahan 


Yazd 

Once in Iran, we suggest using private vehicles to 

give you the maximum flexibility. These are of a 

western standard, air conditioned and will be 

driven by experienced, safe drivers used to 

dealing with the sometimes hectic traffic 

conditions in Iranian cities. 

When to go 


~ ~ ~ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ~ 





Considering its location, Iran has unusually 

diverse weather. The north is very hot in summer 

and cold in winter. In the south you’re in the 

Persian Gulf, so expect pretty warm days even in 

December and January. Broadly speaking the best 

times of year to visit are in spring and autumn, 

when there are no extremes of temperature in 

most places. 

Time difference: GMT+3.5 hours 


Prices 



for your trip to Iran on our website, alternatively 


Classic Iran 

This 13 day trip is a comprehensive visit to this 

most fascinating of countries. Starting in Tehran, 

you’ll visit the desert town of Yazd, Persepolis, as 

well as the incredible city of Esfahan. Giving you a 

taste of rural life in Iran, you’ll also spend a night 

in the pretty village of Abyaneh. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Fly from London to Tehran overnight. 

After time to relax, start exploring 

the Iranian capital. 

Visit the Qajar era Golestan Palace, 

the Carpet Museum and take in the 

impressive National Jewels Museum. 

Drive to the village of Abyaneh. 

Spend the afternoon walking in 

the village. 

Drive to Yazd, stopping en-route at 

Nain, centre of carpet production. 

Spend the day exploring Yazd, in the 

afternoon visit ancient Zoroastrian 

sights including the Towers of Silence. 

Continue to Shiraz, via Pasargadae, 

location of the tomb of Cyrus 

the Great. 

Leave the city to see Persepolis, in 

the evening explore Shiraz’s bazaars. 

Travel to Esfahan. Take a sunset stroll 

along the Zayandeh River. 

Take in Imam Square and the 

spectacular Imam and Sheikh Lotfallah 

Mosques, and Ali Qapu and Chehel 

Sotun Palaces. 

A day at leisure to continue 

exploring Esfahan. 

Return to Tehran via the Fin Gardens 

in Kashan and Qom, the heartland of 

the Islamic Revolution in Iran. 

An early start for your return flight 

back to the UK. 

Extensions 

Iran can potentially be combined with the 

countries of Central Asia and the Silk Route, 

to make a unique and memorable trip. 

Iran Uncovered 

This trip is designed to give you an overview of 

the major sites and is perfect for those with less 

time. Starting in Tehran, you drive to the intriguing 

desert city of Yazd. From here you continue to 

Esfahan to savour the stunning architecture and 

beauty of Iman Square, before returning to Tehran 

for a final night. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Fly from London to Tehran arriving 

the following morning. 

Transfer to your hotel for a few 

hours to relax and unwind, then 

explore the Iranian capital. 

Drive to Yazd via Qom and Nain. 

Spend the day exploring the desert 

city of Yazd. 

Drive onto Esfahan, arriving at 

lunchtime. 

A full day tour of Esfahan. 

After a morning in Esfahan, return 

to Tehran. 

Return to the UK, with a late 

afternoon arrival. 

Stay longer 

If you have a few extra days you can include 

Shiraz and Persepolis as in our Classic Iran trip. 

Carving detail, Persepolis 

Mosque, Shiraz 

www.audleytravel.com/iran ● 01993 838 265 ● Iran 89

Oman 

Oman mirrors most people’s images of 

the Arabian region and lives up to 

these expectations. Part of this is down to 

the remarkable natural scenery, part to its 

heritage and part to the hospitable nature of 

the people. Geographically, the country is 

spectacular. The Hajar Mountains soar into 

the sky along Oman’s spine, riven by sheer 

canyons which drop away, revealing the 

contorted inner strata of the rock. The golden 

dunes of the Wahiba Sands give way to 

narrow wadis that carve through the 

landscape and hide deep, cool pools of water. 

Untouched white-sand beaches fringe the 

Indian Ocean, and some offer the rare 

privilege of seeing nesting turtles. Oman has 

looked after its heritage well, and the old 

forts have been expertly restored. Modern 

developments mirror original architectural 

style, and remain low-rise, allowing the old 

and new to sit alongside each other in 

harmony. Muscat is a vibrant capital and 

the mountain town of Nizwa is famous for 

its Friday market, with people coming from 

far and wide to trade their livestock. 

Wherever you go in Oman you will be met 

with typical Arab hospitality. 

90

Audley in Oman 

6 

2 

5 

1 

3 

4 

Although the farthest of the Arab countries 

from the UK, Oman offers an easy 

introduction to the Middle East region. 

A short trip of around ten days is sufficient 

for a visit to the capital in conjunction with 

an exploration of the interior of the country. 

This will include many contrasting landscapes 

and interesting insights into the traditions and 

culture of Oman. A longer trip of two weeks 

would be suitable for those wishing to 

discover areas such as the Dhofar region, 

surrounding Salalah, and the Musandam 

Peninsula. Your trip could be done with car 

and driver or, if you prefer, you can drive 

yourself. A tour to Oman can be combined 

with a visit to the United Arab Emirates or 

countries further afield, such as Thailand, 

India, Sri Lanka or the Maldives. 

Accommodation 

3 The Wahiba Sands 

Miles of towering dunes and 

one of the best places to 

experience the desert in 

the region. 

Man at Nizwa’s Friday market 

6 Musandam Peninsula 

One of the most unusual 

coastlines in the region, with 

outstanding opportunities 

for snorkelling. 

Other than in Muscat, most places in Oman 

will have only one or two accommodation 

options. In the capital there is a good range 

of international hotels of various styles and 

standards, with a corresponding range of 

costs. You are likely to have more than one 

stay in Muscat during your trip, so you may 

wish to choose two different hotels here. 

Elsewhere there are fewer choices, but our 

specialists regularly go to inspect the hotels 

and are therefore happy to recommend the 

best options in places such as Nizwa, Salalah 

and the Wahiba Sands, where there is a 

small range of accommodation available. 

4 Turtles at Ras Al Jinz 

The beach here is the place to 

see green turtles which populate 

the seas around Oman. 

Beaches 

Oman has thousands of 

kilometres of coastline with 

superb beaches of white sand. 

Wadi Ghul 

5 Nizwa’s Friday market 

The Friday market at Nizwa 

gives an insight into traditional 

ways of life in Oman. 

Frankincense 

Oman’s prosperity in times past 

was due to its important role in 

the frankincense trade. 

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat 

Find out more 

1 The Sultan Qaboos 

Grand Mosque in Muscat 

One of the largest mosques in 

the world, the Grand Mosque 

can accommodate 20,000 

worshippers. 

2 Wadi Ghul & 

Wadi Nakheer 

The sheer vertical drop into 

Wadi Ghul and Wadi Nakheer 

has to be seen to be believed. 

Young Bedouin, Wahiba Sands 


information about travel in Oman, please 

see page 98. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Oman 


Oman 91

Muttrah Corniche, Muscat 

Muscat 

Muscat is the capital of Oman and stretches for 

several kilometres along the coast. The oldest 

part of the town is the natural harbour marked 

by the forts of Jalali and Mirani, which guard the 

walled city and the Sultan’s palace. Displays of 

traditional costume, jewellery and weaponry can 

be seen at Bait Al Zubair, a family house 

converted into a small museum. The nearby 

corniche at Muttrah is a picturesque spot. The 

houses here have delicately styled balconies, a 

remnant of the Portuguese influence on the city. 

Qurm, north of the old city, is a residential area 

but is also where many of the hotels are, close to 

a white-sand beach. The Sultan Qaboos Grand 

Mosque dominates the skyline, unsurprising given 

that it is one of the largest mosques in the world, 

able to accommodate 20,000 worshippers. 

SHANGRI LA BARR AL-JISSAH 

RESORT & SPA,MUSCAT 

A 40 minute drive from the airport and a 

short distance from the old city of Muscat, 

the Shangri La Barr Al-Jissah Resort and Spa 

offers typical Omani hospitality and luxurious 

accommodation. Comprising three hotels 

(Al Waha, Al Bandar and Al Husn), over 20 

restaurants and cafes and an exhaustive range of 

leisure facilities, the resort is perfect for relaxing 

at the end of a longer tour through Oman. It is 

set on a private bay, with the white sands and 

clear turquoise waters framed by the deep red 

of the rocky mountains behind. 

AL BUSTAN PALACE,MUSCAT 

After a multi-million dollar investment and 

renovation, the renowned Al Bustan Palace 

re-opened in 2008, once again providing first-rate 

service and accommodation. The closest hotel to 

old Muscat, the Al Bustan boasts a long stretch 

of private beach and beautifully maintained 

garden. A soaring atrium, richly decorated in a 

traditional style with a crystal chandelier and 

fountain, greets you as you enter the hotel. The 

style of the 250 rooms reflects local traditional 

design combined with state-of-the-art facilities. 

All have balconies with views of the sea or the 

mountainous landscape behind. 

Shangri La Barr Al-Jissah Resort & Spa, Muscat 

THE CHEDI,MUSCAT 

The Chedi is one of the finest hotels in the 

country. Its series of low-rise buildings are set in 

beautifully tended gardens that are reflected in 

pools of still water, typical of Islamic gardens. The 

interior suggests a strong Asian influence: rooms 

are decorated with dark wood, slatted blinds, 

low beds and crisp white linen. The restaurant is 

known as one of the best places to eat in Muscat, 

with a menu serving Arab, Mediterranean, Asian 

and Indian cuisine. A recent addition is the spa 

and the 103 metre-long swimming pool. 

Al Bustan Palace, Muscat 

92 

The pool at The Chedi, Muscat

Sifa Beach, near Muscat 

Local man at Muttrah Souq, Muscat 

Old Muscat in the evening 

THE INTERCONTINENTAL,MUSCAT 

The InterContinental in Muscat is one of the older 

international hotels in the city, but remains one of 

the best value and most popular options. The 

hotel is set amongst extensive grounds with plenty 

of facilities, including two attractive swimming 

pools. Perhaps the best feature of the hotel is its 

direct access to Qurm beach, a long, wide stretch 

of sand reaching for four kilometres. Rooms have 

all been updated in recent years and there is a 

choice of sea or mountain views. 

Self-drive Oman 

Choosing to get behind the wheel on a 

self-drive itinerary of Oman can really open 

up this fascinating country. You are free to 

explore at your own pace and get off the 

beaten track whenever you like, whether to 

roam further into the mountains near Nizwa, 

or even venture up some of the wadis which 

dot the Omani landscape. 

Hiring a car for four or five days would allow 

plenty of time to explore the mountains 

and desert outside Muscat, although it is 

worth considering having a car while you are 

staying in the capital as well. Muscat is rather 

spread out, and some of the hotels are miles 

away from the centre of the city. Having the 

use of a car here means you can visit the 

souqs and restaurants independently and 

without the need for taxis. Oman has a 

good road network, which is expanding all 

the time. Equipped with a good map and 

directions, it is easy to navigate and explore 

the country. We will organise all aspects 

of your self-drive trip including flights, 

accommodation and rental car, as well as 

making suggestions for sightseeing. 

City view at night, Muscat 

Desert driving, Oman 

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat 

www.audleytravel.com/oman ● 01993 838 430 ● Oman 93

Village in the Jebel Akhdar 

Nizwa Fort 

Nizwa 

Nizwa, the former capital of Oman, is nestled 

below the Jebel Akhdar, a set of mountains which 

forms part of the Hajar Range. Seemingly cut 

off from the rest of Oman, this bustling urban 

hub comes as a surprise when approached across 

the mountains or from the deserts of Oman. 

The town attracts traders from far and wide, 

coming for the famous Friday market to buy and 

sell goats, sheep and cattle. Both Omani men 

and women take part in the auction so this is a 

good place to see some of the beautiful national 

costumes, the men wearing white robes, turbans 

or small caps and many of the women in 

intricate face veils and colourful headscarves. 

The town itself has one of the most impressive 

forts in Oman, hinting at the town’s past role 

as the capital. 

94 

THE VIEW CAMPSITE, 

NEAR NIZWA 

Perched on a ridge high above the town of Al 

Hamra, the View Campsite has 15 tents, seven of 

which have views over the valley. All the tents 

have laminate flooring, a basic air-conditioner and 

heater, and en suite shower rooms. The valleyview 

tents have raised terraces which are a great 

place to take in the view, whilst the courtyard-view 

tents also have smaller patios for sitting out and 

enjoying the peacefulness of the area. Meals are 

served in the small dining area which also looks 

over the valley and Al Hamra. The View Campsite 

offers a comfortable and altogether different 

experience to most other options in the area. 

Lady at Nizwa’s Friday market 

The View Campsite, near Nizwa 

Jebel Akhdar 

The region surrounding Nizwa is famed for its 

natural beauty, with the Jebel Akhdar living up 

to their name ‘the Green Mountains’. Many of 

the hills have been terraced for orchards and 

agricultural fields. Within this area you will also 

find Wadi Ghul, Oman’s Grand Canyon, with its 

breathtaking sheer drop of over a kilometre. 

The region boasts several important historical 

sites, including the beehive tombs of Bat and 

Al Ayn, burial sites which have been dated to 

3000 BC and are now UNESCO World Heritage 

Sites. You are never far from a fort, and Bahla and 

Jabrin are two great examples. Bahla’s historical 

importance is very evident in the town’s massive 

walls, stretching for 12 kilometres. The town’s fort 

is another UNESCO protected site, dating to 

1000 BC. Nearby Jabrin is a smaller settlement 

but has an equally impressive fort, renowned for 

its exquisite painted ceilings.

Nizwa Mosque and the Jebel Akhdar Beehive tombs of Al Ayn, Jebel Akhdar Fisherman, Ras Al Jinz 

Boy at the market, Nizwa 

Camels in the Wahiba Sands 

Wahiba Sands 

About four hours drive from Muscat, the Wahiba 

Sands are the most accessible of the desert areas 

of Oman. The sands are home to numerous 

species of plants and animals and are therefore a 

site of scientific interest, as well as being a popular 

destination for visitors. In places, the dunes reach 

150 metres in height, offering great opportunities 

for exhilarating 4x4 drives and fabulous views of 

desert sunsets. The area is sparsely populated but 

there are some Bedouin tribes which are less 

nomadic than in the past and have settled in the 

Wahiba Sands. They welcome visitors to their 

homes, displaying the typical hospitality associated 

with this region. 

There is a range of accommodation available 

in the Wahiba Sands, from the more basic 

Bedouin tents and wooden barasti-style huts to 

air-conditioned, en suite rooms or private camps 

set up just for you. We recommend spending 

two nights in the desert so that you have time to 

explore the dunes or organise other activities like 

camel rides or quad-biking, but one night will 

allow you to experience the landscape and the 

wonderful peace and solitude of this area. 

Desert Nights Camp, Wahiba Sands 

DESERT NIGHTS CAMP, 

WAHIBA SANDS 

Set between two 30 metre dunes, yet only 

11 kilometres from the main road, the Desert 

Nights Camp has a real feeling of peace and 

relaxation. Each air-conditioned ‘tent’ comprises a 

lounge, bedroom and bathroom and is equipped 

with all the facilities of a luxury hotel. There is a 

range of activities from quad-biking and camel 

riding to 4x4 dune bashing. In the evening, dinner 

is provided in the main restaurant with a chance 

to relax afterwards under the stars and listen to 

local musicians. 

Ras Al Jinz 

On the coast south of Muscat is the small 

cove of Ras Al Jinz. It is here that Omani efforts 

to preserve the marine life of the area are 

concentrated, at the Ras Al Jinz Nature Reserve. 

The beach is a prime spot for turtles to come 

ashore to lay their eggs all year round, although 

the principal season for nesting is between July 

and September. There is a good visitor centre 

next to the beach along with accommodation at 

Carapace Lodge, perfect for late evening and 

early morning visits to view the turtles. 

Turtle at Ras Al Jinz 


Coastline near Salalah 

Salalah Marriott Beach Resort 

Salalah 

Salalah is the main town of the Dhofar region, 

located in the far southwest of Oman and near 

the border with Yemen. One of Oman’s most 

ancient settlements, Salalah has a very different 

climate to the rest of the country, and in the 

summer months the city experiences the khareef 

season, influenced by the monsoon winds and 

rain from the Indian Ocean. During this period, 

the countryside turns green and lush and visitors 

from elsewhere in the Arabian peninsula flock 

here to experience the refreshing rainfall. At 

other times Salalah is a rather sleepy but 

attractive place to spend a few days, where you 

can enjoy the tropical atmosphere amongst the 

banana groves and palm trees. To the east and 

west of the town are some places of interest, 

including the tomb of the Prophet Job, hills filled 

with frankincense-bearing trees and the ancient 

port of Samhuram, at one time associated with 

the Queen of Sheba. 

96 

SALALAH MARRIOTT 

BEACH RESORT 

The Salalah Marriott is actually located 

approximately one hour’s drive from the city, 

near to a small town called Mirbat. It is a peaceful, 

relaxing retreat and an excellent choice for ending 

your trip around Oman. Most of the rooms look 

over the pool (the largest in Oman) and beach, 

with views of the Indian Ocean. There are a 

number of restaurants serving a range of cuisines, 

including a seafood restaurant which makes the 

most of the daily catch. Although a little isolated, 

the Marriott offers comfortable accommodation 

and is within easy reach of Salalah and the 

surrounding points of interest. The coastline to 

the east of the hotel is very remote with 

fascinating geology, flora and fauna, making it 

well worth exploring. 

Playing football on the beach, Salalah 

Lagoon near Salalah

The Frankincense Trade 

The Dhofar region, with its principal town 

of Salalah, has been one of the world’s 

premier sources of frankincense since ancient 

times. The Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and 

Persians were amongst the civilisations who 

purchased Omani frankincense. The trade 

thrived thanks to its use in rituals associated 

with different religions and was one of the 

gifts offered by the three magi (wise men) 

in the Bible’s nativity story. Dhofar prospered 

during these times. The ruins of Samhuram, 

an ancient port near Salalah are testament 

to its importance on early trade routes. 

Frankincense was transported from here all 

over the world. 

Frankincense is tapped from the Boswellia 

tree which grows in the hills near Salalah. 

Small incisions are made in the bark during 

March and April and the tree is then left for 

around five days whilst the milky sap seeps 

out. The lumps of resin are then collected 

by local people, whose families have been 

involved in the industry for centuries. Today 

frankincense is still shipped around the world 

for use in religious ceremonies and as an 

important ingredient in the manufacture of 

perfumes. You can buy frankincense in most 

souqs in Oman, but the souq in Salalah 

offers the largest range. 

Harvesting frankincense 

Frankincense 

Burning frankincense at Job’s Tomb 

Mosque and boat at Zighy Bay, Musandam Peninsula 

The Musandam Peninsula 

Musandam is one of the least visited but most 

beautiful areas of Oman. It is a parcel of Omani 

territory, entirely cut off from the rest of the 

country by the surrounding United Arab Emirates, 

a legacy of the tribal lines which dictated the 

shape of modern Arab nations. You can drive 

from the main part of Oman to reach Musandam, 

or to save time, fly northwards from Muscat. 

Jutting into the Straits of Hormuz like a crooked 

finger, its coastline is deeply scored with jagged 

creeks that are often compared to Norwegian 

fjords. Dhow cruises around the coast are a good 

way to see Musandam from a different 

perspective, with opportunities to enjoy the 

scenery and snorkel in the brilliantly clear water. 

Inland, roads cut through the folded mountains 

and there are small villages and towns with white 

houses and small forts. 

SIX SENSES ZIGHY BAY, 

MUSANDAM PENINSULA 

Six Senses Zighy Bay complements the remote 

and beautiful location with its use of traditional 

materials and design. There are 79 pool villas 

and pool villa suites, each with their own small 

swimming pool. The resort has all the facilities 

needed for a stay in such a remote place, 

including a marina, gym, spa and a range of dining 

options, including private dining in the hills. Backed 

by mountains, the hotel sits on a secluded beach. 

You can choose to arrive along the dramatic road 

from the mountains, across the sea by speedboat, 

or even to fly down by paraglider. 

Fjord on the Musandam Peninsula 

Six Senses Zinghy Bay, Musandam Peninsula 









Please call one of our Oman specialists to start 


Wadi Ghul 

Jabrin 

Nizwa 

Muscat 

Sur 

Ras Al Jinz 

SAUDI 

ARABIA 

Muscat 

Wadi Ghul 

Sur 

Nizwa 

Jabrin 

Ras Al Jinz 

Wahiba Sands 

OMAN 

Telephone: 01993 838 430 


In Oman, you will normally travel with a private 

driver for the trip into the interior of the 

country, using a 4x4 vehicle in order to cope 

with the varying terrains, including mountains, 

wadis and deserts. In the capital and Salalah you 

may have transfers and sightseeing provided in 

air-conditioned saloon vehicles. Otherwise there 

is the opportunity to drive yourself around Oman, 

and we can arrange hire of a 4x4 vehicle for you, 

fitted with a GPS system to make navigating that 

little bit easier. 

When to go 


✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✕ ✕ ✕ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ 





Oman is best visited in the autumn and winter 

months, as the temperatures are warm but not 

too hot and the humidity is a little lower. The 

summer months are very hot indeed, making 

sightseeing uncomfortable, except in the 

mountain area near Nizwa, where the cooler 

weather can be a welcome relief from the heat 

and humidity of the Omani coast. Salalah 

experiences the monsoon (known locally as the 

khareef) between June and September. The rain 

and humidity at this time tend to discourage 

European visitors, who come instead from 

October through to April, making the most of 

blue skies and mild temperatures. 



Prices 


budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline 

prices for your trip to Oman on our website, 


your plans. 

Classic Oman 

The Classic Oman itinerary is a great trip for a 

first-time visitor to the country because it gives a 

good overview of some of the main highlights. 

The trip takes you through the contrasting 

landscapes of the coast, desert and mountains, 

with time to take in the capital and the interesting 

interior town of Nizwa. This itinerary can also be 

adapted for a self-drive tour. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Wahiba Sands 

Fly overnight from the UK to Muscat. 

Arrive in Muscat and transfer to 

your hotel. 

Discover the sights of Muscat. 

Pass through the spectacular Wadi 

Bani Awf on the way to Nizwa . 

Explore Nizwa and the surrounding 

Jebel Akhdar region, including Jabrin 

Fort and Oman’s ‘grand canyon’ at 

Wadi Ghul. 

Travel to the Wahiba Sands, crossing 

the dunes to a desert camp. 

Travel to Wadi Bani Khalid, one of 

Oman’s most picturesque spots, 

before continuing to Ras Al Jinz for 

the opportunity to view the turtles. 

Return to Muscat via Sur along the 

coastal road. 



Stay longer 

Extend the trip by spending a few more days in 

Muscat, with time to relax at one of the capital’s 

beaches. Alternatively travel from Muscat to 

another destination such as the Maldives, Sri Lanka 

or India. 

Salalah 

Grand Tour of Oman 

This itinerary offers a more comprehensive look at 

Oman, its culture and history, along with time to 

relax in Muscat and Salalah on the country’s 

beaches. The trip could either be done with your 

own private driver or as a self-drive itinerary. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Days 3-4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Day 15 

Samhuram 

Fly from the UK overnight to Muscat. 

Arrive in Muscat and transfer to 

your hotel. 

Discover the sights of Muscat, 

including the souqs and the Sultan 

Qaboos Grand Mosque. 

Travel south from Muscat via Sur 

along the coast to Ras Al Jinz, with 

the opportunity to visit the beach 

where turtles come ashore to nest. 

Visit Wadi Bani Khalid on the way to 

the Wahiba Sands, spending a night 

there at a desert camp. 

Travel to Nizwa. 

Visit Nizwa and the surrounding Jebel 

Akhdar region, including Wadi Ghul. 

A second day of sightseeing from 

Nizwa, going to Jabrin, Bahla and the 

beehive tombs at Al Ayn. 

Travel to Muscat through the 

spectacular Wadi Bani Awf. In the 

evening fly from Muscat to Salalah. 

Explore the coastline to the east of 

Salalah, going to the ancient port of 

Samhuram and some of the pretty 

fishing villages in the area. 

Discover the coastline to the west 

of Salalah, including the famous 

frankincense trees of the area. 

Visit the town and souqs of Salalah. 

A free day for relaxation. 

Transfer to the airport for a flight to 

Muscat, connecting with your return 

flight to the UK. 

98 

Young boy, Muscat

Useful information 

The Monastery, Petra, Jordan 

Honeymoons 

With such a wealth of important historical sites, a 

honeymoon in this region makes for a memorable 

trip. Egypt, Jordan and Oman all offer 

opportunities to combine your sightseeing with 

relaxation at luxurious hotels located on sandy 

beaches. We also offer a honeymoon gift service 

which allows friends and family to contribute to 

the cost of your honeymoon. 

Groups 

We offer a comprehensive programme of guided 

small group tours, typically no more than 16 

travellers. Not only does this make for a sociable 

group, it also enables us to use smaller and more 

characterful accommodation and venture away 

from the large tour groups. 

www.audleytravel.com/groups 

We can also arrange private tours, whether this is 

for a group of friends, those with a special interest 

or a fundraising trip for charity. For larger groups 

we may be able to offer discounts or a free place 

to the organiser. See our website or call us to 

discuss your plans. 

Tea break in the Atlas Mountains 

Flights 

We use a range of airlines for our trips to 

North Africa and the Middle East, including the 

national carriers of most of our destinations, such 

as Tunis Air, Royal Air Maroc and Egypt Air. 

These often have good flight schedules and access 

to reduced domestic fares within the destination. 

There are several other international carriers we 

recommend. UK based airlines now operate to 

all the destinations in the brochure, making 

combination trips of two or more countries all 

the easier and better value. For Oman, we use 

Oman Air, but also Qatar Airways, Emirates 

and Etihad, which are all excellent airlines and 

open up the possibility of combining Oman with 

other destinations such as Dubai, Thailand, India, 

Sri Lanka or the Maldives. 

AITO Membership 

Audley is a member of the 

Association of Independent Tour 

Operators. The Association represents Britain’s 

leading independent tour operators and 

encourages high standards of quality and service. 

Audley abides by the Assocation’s Code of 

Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality 

Charter which can be viewed at www.aito.com 

View from Saladin’s Castle, northern Syria 

Terms & Conditions and 

Travel Insurance 

Your booking is subject to the Terms and 

Conditions of Audley Travel, which we will 

include with your personalised itinerary and can 

also be found on our website. It is vital that you 

have adequate travel insurance and we are able 

to suggest a number of policies either for the 

duration of your trip or on an annual basis. 

Photography in this brochure 

We would like to thank the following 

photographers for the images used in this 

brochure: 

Alamy, Audley staff, clients and suppliers, 

Fotoseeker, Istockphoto, Lonely Planet Images, 

Moroccan Tourist Office, Peter Branch, 

Shutterstock, Simon Urwin, Superstock, Tips 

Images and Travel Pictures Gallery. 

All images used in this brochure were obtained 

in good faith by Audley Travel Group Limited 

and in the belief that all necessary consents and 

clearances were obtained for their use. 

However, if you believe that unauthorised use 

has been made of an image belonging to you 

please contact us on 01993 838 040. 

Visit our offices 

If you would like to discuss your 

travel arrangements in person we 

welcome personal visits, please 

call in advance to arrange an 

appointment with one or more of 

our country specialists. Our offices 

are at the New Mill, a 17th century 

converted wool mill on the outskirts 

of Witney, ten miles west of Oxford 

on the edge of the Cotswolds. 

www.audleytravel.com/visit-us 


Our website is packed with 

information, features and advice 

covering all our destinations across 

the globe. On the site you can browse by 

theme, special interest or region as well as 

viewing additional accommodation options 

and itineraries that are not featured in this 

brochure. You can download all our 

brochures online or contact us via the 

website where there is the option to tell 

us about your plans so that we can start 

tailoring your itinerary. 

Useful information 99

New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9SX, United Kingdom 

Telephone: 01993 838 400 • Fax: 01993 838 010 

Email: arabia@audleytravel.com • Website: www.audleytravel.com 

This brochure has been printed on paper from well managed forests, approved by the Forestry Stewardship Council, using vegetable inks. 

Our printer holds ISO 14001 and FSC ® environmental accreditations. Should you wish to dispose of your brochure, we kindly request that you recycle it.

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