You'll see magnificent man-made structures, visit ancient sacred places, experience .... everything is easier and .....
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2016/ 17
www.bunniktours.com.au
MAXIMUZME GR O U P S I
SMALL GROUP TOURING
MIDDLE
EAST
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Small Group Touring Egypt & the Middle East
CONTENTS Explore Egypt & the Middle East The World of Bunnik Tours | The Bunnik Tours Difference Bunnik Tours: The Egypt Specialist 100% Egypt Guarantee Small Group Touring Our Touring Concept How We Travel Where We Stay Unforgettable Experiences | Level of Fitness Our Tour Guides Abu Simbel Included Airfares Included | Celebrating 20 Years Booking Your Tour
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SMALL GROUP TOURING Highlights of Egypt Egypt in Depth Egypt In-Style & Lake Nasser Cruise Highlights of Egypt & Jordan Egypt & Jordan in Depth Egypt, Israel & Jordan Jordan & Oman NEW Turkey & Jordan NEW Best of Egypt & Turkey Cairo to Zanzibar
DELUXE
12 Day Tour 17 Day Tour 19 Day Tour 18 Day Tour 25 Day Tour 23 Day Tour 19 Day Tour 22 Day Tour 23 Day Tour 26 Day Tour
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INDEPENDENT TOURING & TOUR EXTENSIONS Jewels of Jordan Israel ex Tel Aviv | Israel ex Jerusalem A Taste of Salalah | Alexandria & El Alamein Small Print Map Legend and Abbreviations
Front cover photo: Camels and the Great Pyramids of Giza in Cairo, Egypt Dennis Bunnik
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Small Group Touring Egypt & the Middle East
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Abu Simbel, Egypt Paul Cook
i BROCHURE PHOTOGRAPHY We take great pride in the tours we create, so wherever possible we feature images taken by Bunnik Tours team members and clients - we believe they provide a truer representation of the places we visit than glossy professional images.
Like to see your photo featured? Submit your photo via our website www.bunniktours.com.au/photocontest and you could also go into the draw to win a $1,000 travel voucher. (Of course, terms and conditions apply. Refer to our website for details.)
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Explore Egypt & the Middle East Black Sea
ISTANBUL Enjoy tasting some of Turkish delicacies, incl. Turkish delight!
Canakkale Gallipoli Troy Pergamum
Cappadocia Konya Pamukkale
Kusadasi
(Turkey & Jordan)
Mediterranean Sea Alexandria
CAIRO
El Alamein
Haifa Tel Aviv
Jerash Amman
Petra Aqaba
Tour the world’s most famous attractions: the Great Pyramids of Giza, the nearby Sphinx, & the treasures of Tutankhamun's tomb.
Valley of the Kings Luxor Edfu Aswan Kom Ombo
(Included in all Egypt tours)
Red Sea
ABU SIMBEL
NILE CRUISE
Visit the incredible twin temples of Abu Simbel.
Board a luxury Nile cruise ship and sail between Luxor and Aswan.
(Included in all Egypt tours)
(Included in all Egypt tours except those cruising Lake Nasser)
EXPLORE EGYPT & THE MIDDLE EAST Walk in the footsteps of the pharaohs as you explore the cradle of civilisation - incredible Egypt. Immerse yourself in history as you visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, admire the Sphinx, and explore fascinating temples and underground tombs. Go beyond Egypt to discover the many treasures of this captivating region, including the magnificent Lost City of Petra, the breathtaking desert of Wadi Rum, the fascinating landscape of Cappadocia and the sacred sights of Jerusalem.
Nakuru Naivasha
MAASAI MARA Enjoy a game drive, spotting elephants, giraffes, zebras, gazelles and lions. (Cairo to Zanzibar)
SAMBURU Go in search of predators in Samburu Game Reserve. (Cairo to Zanzibar)
Mt Kenya Nairobi
The World of Bunnik Tours | The Bunnik Tours Difference
GÖREME VALLEY See the 'fairy chimneys' and underground cities of Cappadocia. (Best of Egypt & Turkey)
THE WORLD OF BUNNIK TOURS Welcome to the world of Bunnik Tours! We're a family company that's passionate about travel and we'd love to show you Egypt and the Middle East. Egypt was one of the first countries that we began running tours to, so it's close to our hearts. We personally visit regularly. In fact, there's a Bunnik in Egypt at least two or three times a year!
Khasab
Nizwa
Sur Ras al Hadd Wahiba Sands
MUSCAT Enjoy an authentic lunch with the villagers at Bait Al Ghaneema. (Jordan & Oman)
We love the people, the incredible history and the unique landscapes of the Middle East, and we've designed a series of itineraries that showcase the very best this region has to offer. You'll see magnificent man-made structures, visit ancient sacred places, experience awe-inspiring natural landscapes, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Arab people. Our small-group concept means that you'll have plenty of one-on-one time with our Egyptologists and expert local guides to learn about the ancient monuments and cultures. And you'll never have to jostle with fellow travellers for a great view! For us it's about sharing the joy of travel and discovery and we'd love to welcome you along for the journey. Happy travels! Marion, Dennis & Sacha Bunnik
THE
DEAD SEA Visit the lowest point on earth and take a dip in the Dead Sea. You'll float without even trying!
®
DIFFERENCE
(Included in all Jordan tours)
Maximum Group Size 20 Less time waiting for others, more time with your guide and room to
JERUSALEM Enter the Old City to wander through the Armenian and Jewish Quarters. (Egypt, Israel & Jordan)
spread out on the bus. Smaller groups really do give you a better holiday Indian Ocean experience!
No Hidden Extras Our tours include return international flights and internal flights, taxes and surcharges, airport transfers, an extensive sightseeing program, many meals and tips where appropriate. We offer very few ‘optional extras’, but where we do, you’ll know about them in advance.
For the Young at Heart Our tours are designed for people who are inspired to discover new places and share new experiences.
WADI RUM Stay overnight at a desert camp and tour the incredible landscape by jeep and camel. (Included in all Jordan tours)
Unique Itineraries Our itineraries combine the must-see sights with the perfect mix of special local experiences and leisure time.
Expert Guides Our English-speaking local guides and expert Egyptologists will help you get the most from your holiday and really get to know the places we visit.
By Australians for Australians Bunnik Tours is a family-owned business that’s been around for 20 years. Our tours are designed specifically to meet the needs and interests of Australian travellers.
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Bunnik Tours: The Egypt Specialist
BUNNIK TOURS: THE EGYPT SPECIALIST For many people, visiting Egypt is the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. The memory of standing in front of the Great Pyramids of Giza for the first time, or descending into a tomb in the Valley of the Kings, stays with you forever. So it's important that your Egypt experience is the best it can be. And the only way to ensure that is to travel with an Egypt expert. Bunnik Tours is Australia’s Egypt expert. We’ve been running tours to Egypt and the Middle East for more than 10 years. During this time, we’ve looked after more than 800 small group tours and many thousands of wonder-struck Australian travellers. In short, we know Egypt well and we use our experience to ensure you have the best possible holiday. From the moment you’re met by our team at Cairo Airport, you’re in good hands. Our team includes the best and most experienced Egyptologists who will bring the ancient monuments to life in a way that is both educational and fun. Our Egyptian hotels and Nile cruise vessels have been carefully selected and offer a level of comfort that will enhance your overall holiday experience. And by including return international flights from Australia as part of the tour package, we’re with you every step of the way.
Our experience and knowledge of Egypt has allowed us to create a series of unique itineraries that showcase the very best this fascinating country has to offer. We remain the only tour company to include a visit to Abu Simbel on every one of our tours to Egypt. We don't just skim the surface, we get under the skin and capture the very essence of this ancient country. In 2012 Bunnik Tours received the BRW Excellence in Customer Service Award for our commitment to our clients and team during the 'Arab Spring'. This, together with the Bunnik family name, is your guarantee that your Egyptian experience will be everything you’ve imagined.
Marion Bunnik
100% Egypt Guarantee
100%EGYPT GUARANTEE ®
Bunnik Tours is committed to helping rebuild the tourism industry in Egypt. We believe that tourism is a powerful tool for developing greater understanding between cultures, and alleviating poverty by providing genuine employment opportunities for ordinary Egyptians. We are also fully committed to customer satisfaction. Delivering amazing holiday experiences and memories that last a lifetime is what drives us. Bunnik Tours therefore commits to providing a 100% refund in the unlikely event we cancel a tour to Egypt as a result of the Australian Government issuing a Do Not Travel warning for general tourism to Egypt during the time your tour is due to be in Egypt. Further information on travel to Egypt and the Middle East can be found on the DFAT website www.smarttraveller.gov.au as well as our travel blog on bunniktours.com.au and videos on youtube.com/bunniktours.
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Small Group Touring
MAXIMUM
GROUP SIZE
SMALL GROUP TOURING Small group touring is a great way to see the world! With all the research, planning and logistics taken care of, you can be sure of a stress-free holiday that takes in all the must-see sights, plus a few local experiences not typically found in the guidebooks. You’ll gain real insight into every destination you visit with the support of our expert local guides, and get to jump the queues at most of the major sights thanks to our special access arrangements. Whether you’re a solo traveller or a couple, you’ll have the comfort and safety of travelling in a group of like-minded people. And our small groups are the perfect environment for making new friends and sharing your travel experiences. A Bunnik small group tour also offers fantastic value for money. By negotiating in bulk with airlines, hotels and local operators we’ve secured preferred rates which we pass on to you.
Applies to all Egypt & the Middle East tours except our Cairo to Zanzibar tour which has a maximum of just 12 people! (see pg 36)
Small Group Touring
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Just some of the reasons why Smaller is Better LESS TIME WAITING Getting on and off the coach, hotel check-ins, comfort stops, meals with a smaller group everything is easier and quicker, giving you more time to enjoy your holiday.
GETTING OFF THE TOURIST TRAIL The logistical challenges of large groups mean that they are restricted to places and experiences that can cater for large numbers. Small groups can get off the beaten track and really experience a destination.
MORE TIME WITH YOUR GUIDE Our low guest-to-guide ratio means you’ll have more one-on-one time to ask questions and take advantage of your guide’s expert local knowledge.
MORE FUN! Being in a small group means you get to know your fellow travellers. Many of our guests establish lasting friendships on our tours!
MORE SPACE ON THE COACH
BETTER VIEWS
Our groups are small but our vehicles are not! We use full-size coaches on long journeys wherever possible, so you’ll have plenty of room to spread out with ample spare seats.
MORE HOTEL CHOICE Big groups stay in the big hotel chains. We have the flexibility to choose from a wider range of accommodation based on factors such as character, service and location.
Being in a small group means you'll get a better view of the places we visit. You won’t have to jostle with dozens of fellow travellers to get the best views and photo opportunities.
BEING A RESPONSIBLE TOURIST Bunnik Tours firmly believes that tourism can create understanding between cultures and generate economic and social benefits in the places we visit. Our small tour groups are lowimpact and don’t ruin the very places we go to see.
OUR TOURING CONCEPT A born traveller, Bunnik Tours founder Marion Bunnik has always had a keen interest in the world. With more than 45 years' experience in the industry, her extensive research and personal experience led her to pioneer the concept of small group touring for the 'not too young, and not too old'. Bunnik Tours groups are made up of like-minded people who are past partying all night, but don't want to go to bed at sunset either: travellers who are young at heart and keen to get off the beaten tourist track and really experience all a destination has to offer! On a Bunnik Tour you'll visit all the famous landmarks and enjoy experiences that only small groups can access. You'll also get time to explore and discover on your own. Be warned: our tours are very addictive!
How We Travel
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HOW WE TRAVEL From camels to feluccas, luxury Nile cruise ships and 4WDs, our modes of transport are as varied as our tours. Why? Anybody can give you a coach tour; our aim is to give you an experience! Of course we also use coaches - they're air-conditioned, clean, comfortable and safe (as you would expect!). Their size will vary depending upon the group, however we always ensure there are plenty of empty seats so you can spread out in comfort.
4WD SAFARI IN WADI RUM Get ready for an unforgettable experience as you board the back of an open-top 4WD to explore the spectacular desert of Wadi Rum. Heading out into the sands, the vehicle's open sides afford 360-degree views of this amazing landscape which evolves at every turn. We'll make several stops along the way to soak up the best views and immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds and scents of the desert.
CAMEL RIDE Known as 'ships of the desert', camels have been an integral part of the Bedouin way of life for thousands of years - not only as a form of transportation, but also for their wool, milk, meat and leather, and for shelter from the harsh climate. You'll get a taste of the Bedouins' traditional, nomadic way of life, and an appreciation of the unique character of these beasts as you enjoy a leisurely ride across the desert sands.
FELUCCA Step back in time as you sail the beautiful waters of the Nile - the lifeline of civilisation in Egypt since the Stone Age. Relax on board a traditional felucca sailboat, as you observe life along the banks of the river and admire the skills of the boatmen who tack back and forth taking advantage of the gentle winds and currents.
Where We Stay
WHERE WE STAY Selecting the right hotels is a job we take very seriously. Each year our team inspects many hundreds of hotels and only a few make our list. Above all else, we look for location, cleanliness, comfort and character. In Egypt we stay in comfortable 4 and 5-star hotels and resorts. On the Nile we only use the best available 5-star ships with well-appointed cabins and delicious cuisine. Tours visiting the Egyptian oases use the best available accommodation in this remote part of the country, which is as yet largely undiscovered by tourists.
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract, Aswan
In the interests of your comfort and safety Bunnik Tours DOES NOT use overnight trains in Egypt.
GET THE ROYAL TREATMENT
Our hotels in Jordan, Israel and Oman are 3½ and 4-star - clean, comfortable and selected for their character and location. While in Wadi Rum and Wahiba Sands you’ll feel like Lawrence of Arabia in our million-star desert camps!
Step back in time to the golden era of archaeological discovery, an age of grandeur and exquisite service, beautifully combined with the best of today's comforts, as you stay at the Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan, the Winter Palace in Luxor and the Cairo Marriott.
For the Kenya and Tanzania part of our Cairo to Zanzibar tour, the accommodation ranges from magnificent luxury safari camps to 4-star lodges and hotels.
Our exclusive Egypt In-Style & Lake Nasser Cruise tour (page 22) features Egypt's most famous and luxurious palace hotels.
LE MERIDIEN PYRAMIDS, CAIRO
BEDOUIN CAMP, WADI RUM
NILE CRUISE
If anything says 'location' it's Le Meridien Pyramids! This elegant hotel affords incredible views of the majestic Giza Pyramids. Take it all in from your sun lounge beside the heated outdoor pool (while you try the ice cream available poolside - it’s fantastic!). The hotel offers a variety of restaurants including a traditional shisha (water pipe) cafe, and a spa where guests can unwind with a relaxing massage after a busy day of sightseeing.
Wadi Rum is a vast, timeless and starkly beautiful place. We spend the night in a Bedouin camp underneath a blanket of stars. You'll enjoy the genuinely warm hospitality of the locals, while feasting on traditional Bedouin food. Spend the evening sharing stories around the campfire before retiring for the night. Wake early to watch the changing colours of the incredible rock formations as the sun rises over the desert sands.
Cruise the Nile in 5-star style and comfort! Enjoy river life from the relaxed atmosphere of the sun deck, or grab a book and head for the lounge. Spacious and well-appointed cabins with private bathrooms make this a very comfortable way to travel. The food is plentiful and delicious, but above all else, it's the staff who will make this part of your journey memorable as you cruise between Luxor and Aswan, visiting the various temples and sites along the way.
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Unforgettable Experiences | Level of Fitness
UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES Of course, you can't visit Egypt without seeing the pyramids! And on a Bunnik Tour you can be confident that you'll see all the famous sights. But we'll also include some other special experiences that will make your trip truly unforgettable and help you appreciate the real essence of the Middle East. Here are just some of the special experiences you can expect:
Visit the incredible twin temples of Abu Simbel (included on all tours incorporating Egypt)
Stand in front of the Great Pyramids of Giza and be amazed by the sheer size of these structures (included on all tours incorporating Egypt) Descend into the ancient tombs in the Valley of the Kings and admire the intricate hieroglyphic paintings (included on all tours incorporating Egypt)
Visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery associated with the battle of El Alamein (Egypt & Jordan in Depth - Egypt, Israel & Jordan) See a different side of Egypt as you explore the Coptic Christian history of Cairo (Egypt In-Style & Lake Nasser Cruise) Catch your first glimpse of the amazing Treasury as you enter the Lost City of Petra through the Siq, a narrow, 800m-long gorge, flanked on either side by soaring, 80m-high cliffs (included on all tours incorporating Jordan)
Visit a Bedouin house and experience warm Omani hospitality with a cup of Kahwa (Arabic coffee) and dates (Jordan & Oman) Share an authentic lunch with villagers at Bait Al Ghaneema, where chairs are replaced with majlis (Arabic cushions & carpets)! (Jordan & Oman)
Enjoy a special bush dinner under the Maasai Mara stars (Cairo to Zanzibar)
Explore the Aermenian and Jewish Quarters of the Old City of Jerusalem and visit the restored Cardo (Egypt, Israel & Jordan) Pay tribute to the legend of the Anzacs at Gallipoli (Best of Egypt & Turkey)
Rise early to visit Nizwa's unique goat market for an insight into Omani culture (Jordan & Oman)
LEVEL OF FITNESS To get the most from your Bunnik Tour you will need a good level of fitness and mobility and an open mind. Many of the best sights can only be accessed on foot. You should be able to walk at least 3.5km on uneven ground, climb several flights of stairs and be prepared to board small boats. You should also be able to carry your own bags as porter services may not always be available. Passengers who are 70 and over will be required to obtain a doctor’s clearance before travelling.
“I loved seeing all the ancient sites I had only ever dreamed of from my history lessons at school. I learnt so much from our excellent guides. Enjoyed the culture and the friendly people and the top hotels we stayed in. Took so many photos as every scene was a postcard. Every need was taken care of by our reps, guides and drivers. Felt completely safe and well looked after. Nothing was too much trouble.” - Diane Alford (Highlights of Egypt & Jordan - April 2015)
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Our Tour Guides
OUR TOUR GUIDES Nothing beats local knowledge! All of our guides are carefully selected for their expertise, passion and genuine love of their country. You’ll find their energy and enthusiasm contagious and once you’ve experienced a Bunnik Tour, we’re sure you’ll agree that we have some of the best tour guides in the world! In Egypt our team of Egyptologists includes university professors and some of the Egyptian Government's most senior and well-respected archaeologists. But don't let us give you the impression that our guides are dry and stuffy! As well as knowing their subject, they also know how to have fun and give you the best possible Egyptian experience.
Team of experts in Egyptology
Ibrahim in full flight on the West Bank
Ahmad at Jerash, Jordan
Othman in Wadi Rum
Eman explaining the intricacies of Egyptian hieroglyphics
Abu Simbel Included
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ABU SIMBEL INCLUDED Following the curve of the gently sloping path around the hillside you'll catch your first glimpse of the giant temples of Abu Simbel - and they will take your breath away! Abu Simbel's twin temples were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, as a lasting monument to the pharaoh and his queen Nefertari. In the 1960s, the complex was relocated in its entirety to an artificial hill high above the Aswan High Dam reservoir to protect it from flooding. The Abu Simbel temple complex is one of the highlights of any visit to Egypt, and we can't understand why most tour companies only offer it as an optional extra. To us, Abu Simbel is such an important and impressive part of Egypt's amazing history that it must be included. That's why when you travel to Egypt with Bunnik Tours, you will visit Abu Simbel and experience the incredible legacy of Ramses II for yourself.
THE TEMPLE OF RAMSES The first temple at Abu Simbel, the Temple of Ramses, was one of six rock temples erected in Nubia during the reign of Ramses II. Built to impress Egypt's southern neighbours and to reinforce Egyptian religion as the dominant force in the area, this temple features four 20m-high statues of Ramses II. The temple is thought to be one of the grandest and most beautiful commissioned during Ramses II's reign.
THE TEMPLE OF HATHOR & NEFERTARI Abu Simbel's second temple, the Temple of Hathor and Nefertari (also known as the Small Temple), was jointly dedicated to the goddess Hathor and Ramses II's chief consort, Nefertari. The rock-cut facade is decorated with 10m-high statues of the king and his queen; it's the only time in Egyptian art that the king and queen are represented at equal height. (The statues of the queens normally stood next to the pharaoh but were never taller than his knees!)
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Airfares Included | Celebrating 20 Years
AIRFARES INCLUDED
Upgrade to Business Class:
Bunnik Tours includes return international airfares from Australia as part of the tour package. It allows us to offer you a complete stress-free holiday package yet still give you the flexibility to extend your stay or upgrade to business or first class.
We have access to some of the best rates in the industry, so if you are travelling for a special occasion it's definitely an option worth considering.
If you'd like some extra comfort on your long-haul flight, then ask us about upgrading your flights to business or first class.
Qatar Airways is launching new daily international flights from Sydney and Adelaide, in addition to its Melbourne and Perth services. Experience the world’s best airline, premium on-board lounges, and fast transfer at Hamad International Airport in Doha. Our crew will ensure you arrive relaxed and ready.
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS Marion Bunnik Travel opened its doors
We changed our name to Bunnik Travel
By now our team had doubled in size and we started winning a number of state-based travel awards
Driven by a passion for travel and a commitment to customer service, Marion’s dream was to open her own travel agency, and in 1995 she did just that, opening the doors of Marion Bunnik Travel on Pirie Street in Adelaide.
Bunnik Tours launched
Bunnik Travel received the prestigious award for Australia's Best Travel Agency at the National Travel Industry Awards. We received the same award again in 2001 & 2003, making us the first travel agency to become a 3-time winner.
The 1st Bunnik Tour left for Thailand, soon followed by Egypt
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Booking Your Tour
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BOOKING YOUR TOUR Planning your holiday is half the fun and it pays to be prepared. You’ll find lots of info on our website including videos, client reviews, heaps of photos and more detailed itineraries.
Call 1800 BUNNIK
How to Book To confirm your booking, we will need a non-refundable deposit of $500 per person ($750 for Egypt & Turkey and $1,000 for Cairo to Zanzibar tours).
See your local travel agent
Visit bunniktours.com.au
You will also need to arrange travel insurance. Unfortunately this is not a choice, it’s compulsory as we’d hate for something to happen and you not be covered.
Your final balance is due 60 days before you depart. You’ll find our cancellation policy and other terms and conditions in the back of this brochure.
Payment Schedules About 2-4 weeks after your booking has been confirmed, we’ll need to request a progress payment in order to cover airfares, taxes and fuel surcharges. The progress payment for Egypt & the Middle East is $2,500 per person ($2,750 for Egypt & Turkey and $3,000 for Cairo to Zanzibar tours). This increases should you fly premium, business or first class.
Passports and Visas Australian travellers require visas for a number of countries. We can help you obtain them. It's important to note that they can take time to arrange, so early booking is recommended.
This payment allows us to issue your flight tickets and ensures you don’t get hit with airline increases on fuel surcharges and taxes.
We will also require a photocopy of your passport which must be valid for travel for at least six months from the date you are planning to return to Australia.
BOOK YOUR BUNNIK TOUR
Your Travel Documents Your documents, including itineraries and hotel lists, are prepared approximately three weeks before you depart. If you require your documentation earlier than this, please be sure to let us know. Money-Saving Discounts Discounts are available to past customers and to those who book two or more tours at once. For details please check with your consultant. It’s also a good idea to register for our email newsletter or to visit our website regularly, as from time to time we release some fantastic special offers. And nobody likes to miss out on a good deal!
Please note the requirements for travellers with dual passports may differ, please contact your consultant for details.
Fast forward 20 years, and the business has evolved into a multi-award winning, international tour operator, employing more than 50 staff, and sending thousands of happy customers around the world on the holidays of their dreams each year. As the business has grown, Marion and sons Dennis and Sacha have remained at the core of the operation and stayed true to the original philosophy of providing outstanding customer service and treasured holiday experiences.
Bunnik Tours' 1st official brochure released
Bunnik Tours had a facelift with a new logo
What a year! The GFC hit, we opened an office in Melbourne, and won the BRW Fast 100 Award
Bunnik Tours split 1 brochure into 10. New programs (Solo Travellers and Cruise & Tour) were launched
We finally outgrew our accommodation, and moved to our own building in Flinders Street
20 YEARS, and counting! We received the BRW Award for Excellence in Customer Service
Our 1st tour to South America
Marion Bunnik became a finalist in the Telstra Business Women's Awards
We begin advertising nationally
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Small Group Touring Highlights of Egypt
Temple of Horus, Edfu Dennis Bunnik
days:
HIGHLIGHTS OF EGYPT
12
from
5,595pp
$
Flights Included
For those short on time, this tour showcases the best of Egypt. See the magnificent pyramids, the Sphinx, and treasures of Tutankhamun, visit the stunning temples of Abu Simbel, Karnak and Luxor, explore the Valley of the Kings and cruise the famous River Nile.
Highlights • See the Great Pyramids of Giza • Visit the iconic Sphinx • Cruise the Nile in style • Visit the stunning temples of Abu Simbel • Explore the impressive Valley of the Kings • Visit the beautiful Karnak & Luxor Temples • See Tutankhamun’s priceless treasures • Haggle for bargains at the lively Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
MAXIMUM
GROUP SIZE
20
Itinerary
Returning to Aswan, we board our Nile River cruise, which will be home for the next 3 nights. [B,L,D]
Day 1. Depart Australia
Day 6. Nile Cruise After breakfast, we set sail for the Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris. Returning to our ship we cruise onward to Edfu, where we visit the magnificent Temple of Horus, dedicated to the Falcon God. This beautiful ancient temple is one of the best-preserved in Egypt and the second-largest after Karnak Temple. Continuing our journey, we cross the lock at Esna, before sailing on towards Luxor. [B,L,D]
Day 2. Arrive in Cairo Welcome to Cairo, the sprawling capital of Egypt and the largest city in Africa. Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel, where we enjoy a group welcome dinner this evening. [D] Day 3. Cairo Our touring in Egypt starts with the ancient capital of Memphis and the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara, believed to have been designed by the famous vizier of King Zoser, Imhotep. Then we visit the world’s most famous attractions, the Great Pyramids of Giza and the nearby Sphinx - you’ll be amazed by the sheer size of these structures! [B] Day 4. Cairo - Aswan Today we take a short flight to Aswan, Egypt’s sunniest city which has a distinct African influence. On arrival, we visit the High Dam, the Temple of Philae and the Unfinished Obelisk, located in a stone quarry in Aswan where we’ll learn about ancient quarry techniques. In the afternoon, we sail the Nile on board a traditional felucca. [B] Day 5. Aswan - Abu Simbel - Nile Cruise Special Experience: We rise early to cross the desert. Our destination - the incredible twin temples of Abu Simbel. The temples were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, as a monument to himself and his queen, Nefertari. In the 1960s the entire complex was relocated to an artificial hill, high above the Aswan High Dam reservoir.
Day 7. Nile Cruise Arriving in Luxor after breakfast, we explore the fascinating Karnak Temple, dedicated to the Pharaoh Amun. Approximately 30 pharaohs contributed to the temple structure over time, which explains its monumental size! Next we visit Luxor Temple, which was once joined to Karnak Temple by a 3-kilometre Avenue of Sphinxes. Luxor Temple is also home to a 25-metre pink granite obelisk, which was part of a matching pair until the 1830s, when one was given to France where it now stands in the centre of the Place de la Concorde in Paris. [B,L,D] Day 8. Disembark Nile Cruise - Luxor We disembark after breakfast and set off to explore the West Bank - the world’s largest open-air museum! Special Experience: Our first stop is the Valley of the Kings. Carved deep into the limestone rock, each tomb has a similar pattern of three corridors, an antechamber and a sarcophagus chamber. We have the chance here to descend into some of the tombs to see examples of the elaborate and astonishingly well-preserved hieroglyphic paintings.
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Karkheh
ISRAEL
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Persian Gulf
EGYPT
Bahrain Qatar
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Valley of the Kings
Nile Cruise (3)
Red Sea
1 Luxor
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Edfu Kom Ombo 1 Aswan Lake Nasser
Abu Simbel
Luxor Temple Dennis Bunnik
Start
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White Ni
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Our next destination is the Temple of Hatshepsut. Regarded by Egyptologists as one of the most successful pharaohs, Queen Sa ba t Hatshepsut is only a few women given the title of pharaoh. We then visit the Colossi of Memnon - two massive statues of the Aku bu Pharaoh Amenhotep III. [B]
Y e m e n
29-Aug 09-Sep $5,595
24-Oct 04-Nov $5,795
12-Sep 23-Sep $5,595
07-Nov 18-Nov $5,795
26-Sep 07-Oct $5,595
21-Nov 02-Dec $5,795
10-Oct 21-Oct $5,795
05-Dec 16-Dec $5,795
Inclusions travel: Gulf
09-Jan 20-Jan $5,995
20-Mar 31-Mar $5,795
23-Jan 03-Feb $5,795
24-Apr 05-May $5,795
06-Feb 17-Feb $5,795
15-May 26-May $5,695
20-Feb 03-Mar $5,795
03-Jul
• 2 economy-class flights within Egypt • Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
14-Jul $5,895
transportation:
06-Mar 17-Mar $5,795 price valid from: E t h i o p Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane & Perth single supplement: From $795
i a
day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary depending on your city of departure.
• 6 nights in good quality hotels (4-5 star)
bele
S•o3m a l i in a an outside cabin on board nights
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Please note: Additional departure dates (on Mondays) are available. Please contact us for K details. e n y a
a luxury Nile River cruise including all meals
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ee
The prices above include air taxes and fuel Shab surcharges of $660. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change. Tana
All prices shown are per person based on twin-share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. For full terms and conditions please see pages 42 to 43.
Gre at
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Rufiji
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Lua la
Lubilash
• 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 5 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
tour guides: • Expert Egyptologist guides who will bring the fascinating history of ancient Egypt alive
tips: Tipping Made Easy, $160pp AUD pre-paid
I nd i a n Oc e a n
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Day 12. Arrive in Australia
Coach, plane, felucca sailboat & Nile River cruise
accommodation & meals:
She
m Lo
Sham Day 11. Depart Cairo a Luvu a We bid farewell to Egypt, filled T with many a n z a Lake great memories,Tanganyika and begin our journey home. [B]
of Aden
• Return economy-class flights between Australia and Egypt. Taxes included.
Dijbouti
le
Lualaba
All departures on this tour are guaranteed with a minimum of just 2 passengers.
Eritrea
na
Day 10. Cairo Uele a visit to the 12th UeleOur day begins with century Saladin Citadel of Cairo and the Mohammed Ali Mosque, built in classic Lake Albert Turkish style and resembling the great Uganda IturiIstanbul. Next we head to the i mosques of im uw Ar 14th century Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, famous Co ngo for its souvenirs and handmade crafts. There are no fixed prices here, so make sure you Lake Edward practice your haggling skills! We continue Lo Lake Victoria m am into the lively heart of Cairo to visit the i world-famous Egyptian Museum, home LakeKivu of Congo to Tutankhamun’s priceless treasures and Rwanda many other historic artefacts. There will be time for an optional visit to the “Mummy Burundi Room” which has nine mummies on display, including the newly discovered mummy of e mb Igo Queen Hatshepsut. This evening we share our experiences over a delicious farewell Uga lla dinner. [B,D]Lukuga
Finish Total cost pp, twin share
Ge
e Nil
Luxor or simply relax before we take an ou afternoon flight back to Cairo. [B] Mbom
Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share
2017
Blu
le
Guaranteed Departures
Dates & Prices
le Ni
tain un Mo
c
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo Dennis Bunnik Eu
JORDAN Dead Sea
Central Day 9. Luxor - Cairo ica Republic The morning is at leisure for you to explore
a
Small Group Touring Highlights of Egypt
Nile River cruise, the luxury MS Royal Lily Mövenpick
20
Small Group Touring Egypt in Depth
Pyramid, Cairo Marion Bunnik
days:
EGYPT IN DEPTH
17
from
6,595pp
$
Flights Included
Immerse yourself in a time of great wealth and power, of magnificent temples, elaborate ceremonies and aweinspiring pyramids. Explore bustling Cairo, cruise the Nile and enjoy the hospitality of the locals. With so much to offer, this truly is the holiday of a lifetime!
Highlights • See the Great Pyramids of Giza • Visit the iconic Sphinx • Cruise the Nile • Visit the stunning temples of Abu Simbel • Explore the impressive Valley of the Kings • Visit the beautiful Karnak & Luxor Temples • Haggle for bargains at the lively Khan el-Khalili Bazaar • See Tutankhamun’s priceless treasures
Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia Day 2. Arrive in Cairo Welcome to Cairo - your Egyptian adventure starts today! Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before tonight’s group welcome dinner. [D] Day 3. Cairo Our touring in Egypt starts with the ancient capital of Memphis and the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara, the first Egyptian pyramid, believed to have been designed by the famous vizier of King Zoser, Imhotep. Then we visit the world’s most famous attractions, the Great Pyramids of Giza and the nearby Sphinx - you’ll be amazed by the sheer size of these structures! [B] Day 4. Cairo - Luxor Today we leave Cairo and fly to Luxor, on the banks of the Nile. We later explore the fascinating Karnak and Luxor Temples, which are linked together by the 3km-long Avenue of Sphinxes. [B] Day 5. Luxor An amazing day as we explore the world’s largest open-air museum. We visit the incredible Valley of the Kings where we’ll have the opportunity to descend into some of the intricately decorated chambers. We also visit the massive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. [B] Day 6. Luxor - Nile Cruise This afternoon we board our Nile River cruise, which will be home for the next four nights. Cruising the Nile is the best and most enjoyable way to discover upper Egypt. Sit back, relax and watch the day-to-day rituals of rural Egyptian life on the banks of the Nile as we cruise by. [B,L,D]
MAXIMUM
GROUP SIZE
20
Day 7. Nile Cruise We set sail for Edfu this morning, crossing the lock at Esna. The Esna lock is used to control the flow of water through the Nile and erosion along the riverbeds. [B,L,D] Day 8. Nile Cruise Today we visit the Temple of Horus in Edfu, which is dedicated to the Falcon God. It is one of the best-preserved of Egypt’s temples and the secondlargest after Karnak Temple in Luxor. Later we stop at the riverside temple of Kom Ombo, before continuing to Aswan. [B,L,D] Day 9. Nile Cruise Special Experience: We rise early to cross the desert. Our destination - the incredible twin temples of Abu Simbel. The temples were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, as a monument to himself and his queen, Nefertari. In the 1960s the entire complex was relocated to an artificial hill, high above the Aswan High Dam reservoir. We return to Aswan, where the afternoon is at leisure. [B,L,D] Day 10. Disembark Nile Cruise - Aswan Today we disembark our Nile cruise and explore Aswan. Highlights include the High Dam, an engineering masterpiece built in the 1960s; the picturesque Temple of Isis on Philae Island; and the Unfinished Obelisk. At sunset we sail on a traditional felucca sailing boat along the banks of Aswan. [B] Day 11. Aswan - Cairo We spend the morning at leisure in Aswan. You might like to pick up some handcrafted Nubian jewellery or souvenirs from the markets before we fly back to Cairo. [B]
Small Group Touring Egypt in Depth
ranean Sea
Coffee vendor David Hein ISRAEL
Alexandria El Alamein
2
h
Karkhe
Iran
Eup h
rate s
Dead Sea
Wadi El Natroun
5 Cairo (2,1,2)
I r a q
JORDAN
Kuwait Persian Gulf
Bahrain Qatar
ile N
EGYPT
b y a
Red Sea Valley of the Kings
2 Luxor
Nile Cruise (4)
U. A. E.
Edfu Kom Ombo 1 Aswan Lake Nasser
Abu Simbel
Day 12. Cairo - Alexandria After breakfast, we travel to Wadi el Natroun, le home to some of the world’s earliest Ni Christian monasteries. Originally there were 50 monasteries but only four have survived to modern times. Later we continue to the city of Alexandria. Egypt’s second-largest city, it is also known as the ‘Pearl of the Mediterranean’. [B,L] Special Experience: Visit the selfsufficient Coptic Monastery of St Bishoy.
Start
2016
Eritrea
20-Jul 05-Aug $6,595
19-Oct 04-Nov $6,695
24-Aug 09-Sep $6,595
02-Nov 18-Nov $6,695
07-Sep 23-Sep $6,595
16-Nov 02-Dec $6,695
21-Sep 07-Oct $6,595
30-Nov 16-Dec $6,695
le
Inclusions travel:G u l f
• 2 economy-class flights within Egypt
04-Jan 20-Jan $6,795
• Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
01-Mar 17-Mar $6,695
18-Jan 03-Feb $6,695
15-Mar 31-Mar $6,695
01-Feb 17-Feb $6,695
03-May 19-May $6,595
15-Feb 03-Mar $6,695
05-Jul
Aku
bu
• All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
transportation:
21-Jul $6,795
E t h i o p i a
price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane & Perth na
Ge
bele
•S10 o nights m a l i in a good quality hotels (4-5 star)
day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary depending on your city of departure.
Day 15. Cairo Today we visit the Citadel of Cairo and the Lake Albert Uganda K e n y a Mohammed Ali Mosque, before testing Please note: Additional departure dates Ituri i Aruwim our bargaining skills at the lively Khan (on Wednesdays) are available. Please Co ngo el-Khalili Bazaar. After lunch we venture contact us for details. into the bustling heart of Cairo to visit the Tana The prices above include air taxes and fuel Lake Edward world-famous Egyptian Museum, home to surcharges of $660. This amount is correct at Lo Tsh Lake Victoria m u apa Tutankhamun’s priceless treasures and many am time of printing but subject to change. i other historical artefacts. LakeKivu Tonight we enjoy a All prices shown are per person based on Republic Congo group of farewell dinner. [B,D] twin-share. Tour details correct at time of
• 4 nights in an outside cabin on board a luxury Nile River cruise including all meals
Lualaba
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Rwanda
Day 16. Depart Cairo Lukenie We bid farewell to Egypt, filled with many Burundi ru Sanku great memories, as we begin our journey e mb Igo home. [B]
koro
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ab
Sh
• 14 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
tour guides: • Expert Egyptologist guides who will bring the fascinating history of ancient Egypt alive
tips:
For full terms and conditions please see pages 42 to 43.
Tipping Made Easy, $205pp AUD preI ndia n Oce a n paid
m
Lo
printing but are subject to change, see our website for details.
i am
Day 17. Arrive in Australia Lukuga
Uga ll
a Sham
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Lake Tanganyika
a
T a n z a n i a
Gre at
Ru
ah
a
ji
gola
Luvu a Miller Avenue of sphinxes Jane Lua la
sa i
Lubilash
Ka
Ru fi
m
Coach, plane, Nile River cruise & felucca sailboat
accommodation & meals:
She
le
single supplement: From $1,190
le
of Aden
• Return economy-class flights between Australia and Egypt. Taxes included.
Dijbouti
ile eN
i
All departures on this tour are guaranteed with a minimum of just 2 passengers.
Y e m e n
2017
e Nil
ngu
Finish Total cost pp, twin share
05-Oct 21-Oct $6,695
tain un Mo
Day 14. Alexandria - El Alamein - Cairo Saba t Our journey takes us westward through the dunes along the Mediterranean coast, following the route of Field Marshal tto Ko Centralto El Alamein. We pass the WWII Montgomery battlefields where Rommel’s advance on Cairo Africa Republic was halted, and the Allied War Memorials. [B] Special Experience: We visit the ou Mbom Commonwealth War Cemetery associated with the battle of El Alamein. Uele Ue
Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share
Blu
Day 13. Alexandria An eventful day as we explore Alexandria. Highlights include the National Museum, Pompey’s Pillar, the Catacombs, the New Bibliotheca and the Montazah Palace. Our last stop today is the Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th century defensive fortress overlooking the Mediterranean. [B,L]
Guaranteed Departures
Dates & Prices
White Ni
d
uba
capa
21
Tigri s
Rufiji
Understanding the map For a detailed map legend go to pg 43.
22
Small Group Touring Egypt In-Style & Lake Nasser Cruise
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract, Aswan Marion Bunnik
EGYPT IN-STYLE & LAKE NASSER CRUISE Our most luxurious tour of this fascinating country, combining the best of Egypt’s magnificent ancient sights with opulent palace hotels and a luxury cruise on Lake Nasser: this fabulous tour will leave you wanting for nothing!
Highlights • Visit the awe-inspiring Great Pyramids of Giza • See Tutankhamun’s priceless treasures • Explore the impressive Valley of the Kings • Enjoy 4 nights on board a luxury Lake Nasser cruise ship • Visit the beautiful Karnak and Luxor Temples • Spend 12 nights in luxurious palace hotels • Visit the stunning temples at Abu Simbel • Explore the Wadi El Seboua and Kalabsha Temples
days:
Deluxe Tour
Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia Day 2. Arrive in Cairo Welcome to Cairo where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to the 5-star hotel which will be your home for the next four nights. Tonight you’ll meet your fellow guests for a group welcome dinner. [D] Day 3. Cairo Our touring in Egypt starts with the ancient capital of Memphis and the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara, the first Egyptian pyramid, believed to have been designed by the famous vizier of King Zoser, Imhotep. Then we visit the world’s most famous attractions, the Great Pyramids of Giza and the nearby Sphinx - you’ll be amazed by the sheer size of these structures! [B] Day 4. Cairo Today we venture into the bustling heart of Cairo to visit the world-famous Egyptian Museum, home to Tutankhamun’s priceless treasures and many other historic artefacts. This afternoon we visit the Citadel of Cairo and the Mohammed Ali Mosque, before trying out our bargaining skills at the lively Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. [B] Day 5. Cairo Special Experience: We’ll see a different side of Egypt as we visit the Coptic Christian sites of Old Cairo. Highlights include the Hanging Church, Abu Serga and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, set in a shady garden, built on the site of a 4th century Christian church. [B] Day 6. Cairo - Aswan After breakfast, we leave Cairo and board our flight to Aswan, one of the most beautiful cities in Egypt,
19
from
8,295pp
$
Flights Included
MAXIMUM
GROUP SIZE
20
located on the River Nile. This afternoon we’ll relax on board a traditional felucca sailboat, as we sail around Kitchener’s Island and the Agha Khan Mausoleum. [B] Special Experience: Tonight we enjoy the Philae Island Sound & Light Show which brings to life the myth of Isis and Osiris. Day 7. Aswan - Embark Lake Nasser Cruise Our sightseeing in Aswan includes the High Dam - an engineering miracle built in 1960, which still provides irrigation and electricity for the whole of Egypt. We see the Unfinished Obelisk, which was destined to have been the largest piece of stonework ever, until a crack was discovered and it was abandoned. We take a short boat ride to pay a second, daytime visit to the majestic Temple of Isis on Philae Island. This afternoon we board our Lake Nasser cruise, which will be our home for the next four nights. [B,L,D] Day 8. Lake Nasser Cruise In the morning we will visit the Kalabsha Temple. Construction of this temple started at the end of the Ptolomaic Dynasty and was completed under the rule of the Roman Emperor Augustus. The result is an interesting combination of imagery that includes Egyptian and Roman themes. Next we see Beit El Wali and the Kiosk of Kertassi, then later we return to our cruise ship for the evening. [B,L,D] Day 9. Lake Nasser Cruise We begin our day with a visit to the temples of Wadi El Seboua, considered to be some of the oldest temples of Egypt and dedicated by Ramses II to the two gods Amon Ra and Ra Harmakis. We continue to Amada, where we visit the ancient Temple of Amada. [B,L,D]
Small Group Touring Egypt In-Style & Lake Nasser Cruise
anean Sea
23
Tigri s
Cruise ship on Lake NasserKaGraham Meale rkheh ISRAEL
El Alamein
2
Iran
Eup h
rate s
Alexandria Wadi El Natroun
JORDAN
6 Cairo (4,1,1)
Kuwait Persian Gulf
Bahrain Qatar
Ni le
y a
EGYPT
Valley of the Kings
Lake Nasser
Abu Simbel
Day 10. Lake Nasser Cruise Cruising the majestic waters of Lake le Nasser, we see Kasr Ibrim. As entrance is Ni not permitted, our guide will provide a commentary while we observe the citadel of Kasr Ibrim from our sundeck. In the afternoon, we arrive at the giant temples of Abu Simbel. [B,L,D] Special Experience: Tonight’s enchanting Sound & Light Show at Abu Simbel will transport you back to the time of the pharaohs.
Start
2016
Finish Total cost pp, twin share
le
White Ni
All departures on this tour are guaranteed of just 2 passengers. Y ewith ma eminimum n
Eritrea
12-Jul 30-Jul $8,595
11-Oct
30-Aug 17-Sep $8,295
15-Nov 03-Dec $8,995
20-Sep 08-Oct $8,295
06-Dec 24-Dec $9,495
29-Oct $8,995
Inclusions
Dijbouti
03-Jan 21-Jan $9,495
21-Mar 08-Apr $9,095
07-Feb 25-Feb $9,095
18-Apr
07-Mar 25-Mar $9,095
09-May 27-May $8,495
ile eN
06-May $9,295
Aku
bu
single supplement: From $2,350 E
bele
le
na
e Nil
She
The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $660. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change. a bb Ju
Lualaba
i am
m Lo
transportation: Coach, plane, felucca sailboat & Lake Nasser cruise
accommodation & meals: S• o a l i ain specialty palace hotels 12m nights (5 star) including: • Cairo Marriott Hotel, Cairo • Sofitel Legend Old Cataract, Aswan • Winter Palace Hotel, Luxor • Helnan Palestine Hotel, Alexandria
• 4 nights in an outside cabin on board a luxury Lake Nasser cruise ship including all meals • 16 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
tour guides: • Expert Egyptologist guides who
I ndia n Oce an will bring the fascinating history of ancient Egypt alive
tips: Tipping Made Easy, $225pp AUD pre-paid
Ru
fiji
Lua la
ba
• Return economy-class flights from Australia to Egypt. Taxes included.
• All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
Day 13. Luxor All prices shown are per person based on Lake Albert Uganda twin-share.K Tour e ndetails y acorrect at time of This morning we cross the Nile to the West lle ee Ituri uwimi ab printing but are subject to change, see our Sh Bank, Arto visit Luxor and the fascinating Co website for details. ngo tombs of the Valley of the Kings - an For full terms and conditions please see Tana unforgettable experience! Our next stop is Lake Edward pages 42 to 43. the Temple of Hatshepsut. The remainder of Lo Tsh Lake Victoria m u am theapaday is at i leisure to rest or further explore this ancient capital. [B] LakeKivu m Republic of Congo Catacombs, the Montazah Palace and the Day 14. Luxor - Cairo Rwanda ro New Bibliotheca. We end with a visit to the Today we explore the beautiful temples of ukenie Citadel of Qaitbay, which enjoys spectacular Karnak and Luxor, which were once linked Burundi ru Sanku views of the Mediterranean. [B,L] by an impressive 3km-long Avenue of mbe o Sphinxes. In the afternoon, we fly back Igto Day 17. Alexandria - El Alamein - Cairo Cairo. [B] Special Experience: Our journey takes Uga ll a Lukuga us west today along the Mediterranean Day 15. Cairo - Alexandria Sham a coast to the historic site of El Alamein Ka Special Experience: LuvuWe travel to Wadi El sa a i T a n z a where n i awe Gpay a moving visit to the Natroun, home to some of Lake the world’s rea tR ua Rufiji Tanganyika Of 50 Commonwealth War Cemetery. ha earliest Christian monasteries. gola We head back to Cairo for tonight’s group ancient monasteries just four have farewell dinner. [B,D] survived to modern times. We later continue to the city of Alexandria, Day 18. Depart Cairo Egypt’s second-largest city, known as the Today marks the completion of our tour. ‘Pearl of the Mediterranean’. [B,L] We trust you will leave with wonderful memories and fantastic photos of your Day 16. Alexandria Egyptian adventure! [B] Our day tour of Alexandria includes the National Museum, Pompey’s Pillar, the Day 19. Arrive in Australia Lubilash
of Aden
• Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
t h i o p i a
day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary depending on your city of departure.
Gulf travel:
• 3 economy-class flights within Egypt
price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane & Perth
Ge
tain un Mo
ui
Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share
2017
Day 12. Aswan - Luxor Travelling through the tranquil Egyptian Centralour way toward Luxor, we stop countryside Africa Republic to visit the unusual double Temple of Kom Ombo, then continue to Edfu to see the ou magnificent Mbom Temple of Horus. This beautiful ancient temple is one of the best-preserved le in Egypt Uand provides anUeinsight into how all ele of the temples must have once looked. [B]
tto Ko
Guaranteed Departures
Dates & Prices
Blu
Day 11. Disembark Lake Nasser Cruise Aswan We take a short flight back to Aswan. [B] Special Experience: We’ll indulge in a delicious high tea of delicate finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones with clotted cream, while enjoying spectacular views over the Nile at the Saba t Old Cataract Hotel.
ang
U. A. E.
Edfu Kom Ombo 2 Aswan (1,1)
Luxury Lake Nasser Cruise (4)
d
Red
2 Luxor Sea
If you’d like some extra comfort on your long haul flight, then ask us about upgrading your flights to business or first class (see pg 16).
24
Small Group Touring Highlights of Egypt & Jordan
The Monastery, Petra, Jordan Annelieke Huijgens
HIGHLIGHTS OF EGYPT & JORDAN This fabulous tour combines the best of two unique countries. You’ll marvel at human ingenuity as you visit ancient Roman cities, see hallowed biblical landmarks, and explore Egypt’s incredible monuments. Then cruise the life-giving Nile on this amazing journey.
Highlights • Visit Mt Nebo and enjoy the fantastic views of the Jordan Valley • Swim (or float!) in the Dead Sea • Visit the incredible Lost City of Petra • Tour Wadi Rum by jeep and camel • Visit the beautiful Luxor and Karnak Temples • Explore the impressive Valley of the Kings • See the stunning temples of Abu Simbel
Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia Day 2. Arrive in Amman Welcome to Jordan. On arrival we are met and transferred to our hotel. This evening we’ll meet our fellow guests at a group welcome dinner. [D] Day 3. Jerash Today we head back in time as we begin our tour of Jordan, visiting the beautifully preserved Roman cities of Umm Qais and Jerash as well as the impressive Ajloun Castle. [B,D] Day 4. Amman - Petra Heading out of Amman, we journey to the biblical site of Mt Nebo, where Moses first saw the Promised Land. This afternoon we visit ‘Little Petra’; with a history dating back some 9,000 years it is one of the oldest archaeological sites in the Middle East. Hidden away amidst the folds of spectacular hills, it was lost for almost 300 years until it was rediscovered in 1812. [B,D] Day 5. Petra A real tour highlight today, as we explore the famous Lost City of Petra, a vast, unique city, carved into the sheer rock face by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago. [B,D] Special Experience: We enter Petra through the Siq, a narrow, 800m-long gorge, flanked on either side by soaring, 80m-high cliffs, before we reach the awe-inspiring Treasury, hewn into the rose-coloured sandstone cliff face. Day 6. Petra - Wadi Rum Our journey takes us south to Wadi Rum, a vast, timeless place and one of the most stunning desertscapes in the world. On arrival we enjoy a thrilling jeep tour, guided by local Bedouin
days:
18
from
7,695pp
$
Flights Included
MAXIMUM
GROUP SIZE
20
tribesmen. Later we take a camel ride through the uniquely shaped mountains where we see traces of ancient civilisations in the many carved inscriptions found throughout the area. The most spectacular monuments in Wadi Rum, however, are those carved by nature - the natural rock bridges, towering rose-coloured sand dunes and vast peaks. Tonight we stay in a Bedouin desert camp underneath a blanket of stars. [B,D] Day 7. Wadi Rum - Dead Sea - Amman Heading north we reach the lowest point on Earth - the Dead Sea. The salt content of the water here is four times that of most oceans, so you can float without even trying, which makes swimming here a truly unique experience not to be missed! We then continue on to Amman. [B,L,D] Day 8. Amman - Cairo Today we bid farewell to Jordan as we take a short flight from Amman to Cairo, where we enjoy a welcome dinner in Egypt. [B,D] Day 9. Cairo Our touring in Egypt starts with the ancient capital of Memphis and the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara, the first Egyptian pyramid, believed to have been designed by the famous vizier of King Zoser, Imhotep. Then we visit the world’s most famous attractions, the Great Pyramids of Giza and the nearby Sphinx - you’ll be amazed by the sheer size of these structures! [B] Day 10. Cairo - Aswan We take a short flight to Aswan, Egypt’s sunniest city with a distinct African atmosphere. On arrival, we visit the High Dam, the Temple of Isis on Philae Island and the Unfinished Obelisk. In the afternoon, we enjoy a relaxing trip on the Nile on a traditional felucca sailing boat. [B]
h
Karkhe
Dead Sea
Petra 2
Cairo (2,2) 4
25
Life on the Nile, Egypt Sacha Bunnik
Eup h
rate s
3 Amman (2,1) JORDAN
Kuwait
1 Wadi Rum
Persian Gulf
EGYPT
Valley of the Kings
Red Sea 1 Luxor
Nile Cruise (3)
Edfu Kom Ombo 1 Aswan Lake Nasser
Abu Simbel
Day 11. Aswan - Abu Simbel - Nile Cruise Special Experience: We rise early to cross the desert. Our destination - the incredible twin temples of Abu Simbel. le The temples were originallyNi carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, as a monument to himself and his queen, Nefertari. In the 1960s the entire complex was relocated to an artificial hill, high above the Aswan High Dam reservoir. Upon our return to Aswan, we board our Nile cruise. [B,L,D]
ile eN
White N ile
Blu
Day 12. Nile Cruise This morning we visit the Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris. We sail towards Edfu, where, after lunch, we visit the magnificent Temple of Horus. This beautiful ancient temple is one of the best-preserved in Egypt and the second-largest after Karnak, in Luxor. [B,L,D] Day 13. Nile Cruise We explore the fascinating Karnak Temple, which is dedicated to the Pharaoh Amun. This temple was once joined to Luxor Temple by a remarkable 3km-long Avenue Sa ba of Sphinxes. Later, we visit a papyrus factory t for an insight into the ancient Egyptian way of recording information. [B,L,D] Ak
Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share
Finish Total cost pp, twin share
All departures on this tour are guaranteed with a minimum of just 2 passengers.
2016 23-Aug 09-Sep $7,695
18-Oct 04-Nov $8,295
06-Sep 23-Sep $7,695
Eritrea
01-Nov 18-Nov $8,295
20-Sep 07-Oct $7,795
15-Nov 02-Dec $7,995
04-Oct 21-Oct $8,295
29-Nov 16-Dec $7,995
travel:
03-Jan 20-Jan $8,295
14-Mar 31-Mar $8,195
• Return economy-class flights between Australia, Egypt & Jordan. Taxes included.
17-Jan 03-Feb $8,195
18-Apr
Y e m e n
Inclusions
2017
• 3 economy-class G u l f o f flights A d e nwithin Egypt and Jordan
05-May $8,395
Dijbouti
31-Jan 17-Feb $8,195
09-May 26-May $7,895
14-Feb 03-Mar $8,195
27-Jun 14-Jul $8,295
• Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
28-Feb 17-Mar $8,195
transportation:
price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane & Perth
Coach, 4WD, camel, plane, felucca sailboat & Nile River cruise
single supplement: From $1,150
accommodation & meals:
day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary depending on your city of departure.
E t h i o p i a
Please note: Additional departure dates (on Tuesdays) are available. Please contact us for details.
bele
The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $820. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change.
K e n y a
ba
Tana
Day 17. Depart Cairo Today we bid farewell to Egypt, filled with many great memories, as we begin our journey home. [B] Day 18. Arrive in Australia
• 1 night at a desert camp with shared facilities
• 15 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 11 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
All prices shown are per person based on twin-share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. For full terms and conditions please see pages 42 to 43.
• 11 nights in good quality hotels (4-5 star)
• 3 nights in an outside cabin on board a luxury Nile River cruise including all meals Somalia
She
tour guides:
b Ju
Day 16. Cairo Lakeadventure Edward Today’s takes us to the Saladin Citadel of Cairo, Mohammed Ali Victoria Mosque, Lake Khan el-Khalili Bazaar and the world-famous Egyptian Museum. The museum is home to LakeKivu Tutankhamun’s priceless treasures and many Rwanda other historic artefacts. Tonight, we enjoy a wonderful farewell dinner. [B,D]
Start
le
Day 15. Luxor -Lake Cairo Albert Uganda The morning is at leisure for you to further Ituri explore Luxor or relax before taking an afternoon flight back to Cairo. [B]
Guaranteed Departures
Dates & Prices
na Ge
ubu Day 14. Nile Cruise - Luxor Today we disembark and explore the West Bank, the world’s largest open-air museum. Special Experience: We visit the Valley of the Kings, where we have the chance to descend underground to see the elaborate and amazingly preserved hieroglyphic paintings. Uele We continue on to the massive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and end our day’s sightseeing at the Colossi of Memnon. [B] e Nil
Lualaba
Jerash ISRAEL
tain un Mo
go
is
ile N
blic
Small Group Tigr Touring Highlights of Egypt & Jordan
e
ell
be
a Sh
• English-speaking local guide in Jordan and expert Egyptologist guides who will bring the fascinating history of ancient Egypt alive
tips: Tipping Made Easy, $240pp AUD prepaid
26
Small Group Touring Egypt & Jordan in Depth
The Sphinx, Cairo Marion Bunnik
days:
EGYPT & JORDAN IN DEPTH
25
from
9,495pp
$
Flights Included
Take an in-depth journey back in time to the ancient worlds of Egypt & Jordan. Learn about the region’s complex and tumultuous history, see ancient manmade wonders and experience the majesty of nature in the desert of Wadi Rum.
Highlights • Swim (or float!) in the Dead Sea • Tour Wadi Rum by jeep and camel • Visit the incredible Lost City of Petra • Cruise the River Nile in luxury • Visit the beautiful Luxor and Karnak Temples • Explore the impressive Valley of the Kings • See the stunning temples of Abu Simbel • Haggle for bargains at the lively Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia Day 2. Arrive in Amman Welcome to Jordan. On arrival, we are met and transferred to the hotel. This evening we enjoy a delicious group welcome dinner. [D] Day 3. Jerash We head back in time as we begin our tour of Jordan, visiting the beautifully preserved Roman cities of Jerash and Umm Qais, as well as the impressive Ajloun Castle. [B,D] Day 4. Amman - Dead Sea Our sightseeing today begins at biblical Mt Nebo, where Moses is said to have been shown the Promised Land. Then we head to the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea. [B,L,D] Special Experience: Take a swim in the Dead Sea where you can float without trying, and cover your body in the mud, which is said to have therapeutic benefits for your skin. Day 5. Dead Sea - Wadi Rum We drive south to the spectacular desert of Wadi Rum. We enjoy a camel ride through the desert sands before spending the night in a Bedouin camp underneath a blanket of stars. [B,L,D] Day 6. Wadi Rum - Aqaba We rise early to experience a thrilling jeep tour of this breathtaking rock and sand landscape, guided by local Bedouin tribesmen. Later, we continue south to picturesque Aqaba, Jordan’s major tourism resort and only seaport. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. [B,D] Day 7. Aqaba - Petra We’ll experience the warm crystal-clear waters
MAXIMUM
GROUP SIZE
20
of the Red Sea as we cruise through the Aqaba Marine Park, before making our way to Petra with a stop en route to visit Al Beidha, also known as “Little Petra”. This miniature version of Petra is thought to date back more than 9,000 years and is historically significant in its own right. [B,L,D] Day 8. Petra A real tour highlight today, as we explore the famous Lost City of Petra. Built by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago, Petra was an important junction for the silk, spice and other trade routes that linked the ancient Eastern world with that of the West. [B,D] Special Experience: We enter Petra through the Siq, a narrow, 800m-long gorge, flanked on either side by soaring, 80m-high cliffs, before we reach the awe-inspiring Treasury, hewn into the rose-coloured sandstone cliff face. Day 9. Petra - Amman Today we head north to the magnificent Crusader fortress of Kerak and then on to Amman. [B,D] Day 10. Amman - Cairo We fly to Cairo and spend the afternoon at leisure. [B,D] Day 11. Cairo Our touring in Egypt starts with the ancient capital of Memphis and the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara, the first Egyptian pyramid. Then we visit the world’s most famous attractions, the Great Pyramids of Giza and the nearby Sphinx - you’ll be amazed by the sheer size of these structures! [B] Day 12. Cairo - Luxor We fly to Luxor, on the banks of the Nile, where we explore the colossal Karnak Temple complex and the Luxor Temple, linked by a 3km-long Avenue of Sphinxes. [B]
Small Group Touring Egypt & Jordan in Depth
Jerash
h
Karkhe
ISRAEL
Alexandria
Dead 1 Sea
2 Wadi El
El Alamein
Eup h
rate s
3 Amman (2,1)
Natroun
JORDAN
Petra 2 1 Wadi Rum 5 Cairo (2,1,2) 1 Aqaba
Kuwait Persian Gulf
ile N
EGYPT
Valley of the Kings
Red Sea 2 Luxor
Nile Cruise (4)
Edfu Kom Ombo 1 Aswan Lake Nasser
Abu Simbel
Camel ride, Wadi Rum Colin Noorbergen
Day 13. Luxor An amazing and unforgettable day as we explore the underground tombsile of the N Valley of the Kings. We also visit the massive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. [B] Day 14. Luxor - Nile Cruise This afternoon we board our cruise ship, which will be our home for the next four nights. Take some time to relax and watch the day-to-day rituals of rural Egyptian life on the banks of the Nile as we sail past. [B,L,D]
le
White Ni
ile eN
Blu
Day 15. Nile Cruise Our cruise ship navigates the lock at Esna, before docking for the night at Edfu. [B,L,D] Day 16. Nile Cruise In Edfu we visit the Temple of Horus, the second-largest temple in Egypt after Karnak and one of the best-preserved. The temple was abandoned in 391 AD and lay buried in Sa sand until it was rediscoveredbatin the 1860s. We sail on to the riverside temple of Kom Ombo, before continuing to Aswan.Aku[B,L,D] b u
e Nil
ou Mbom
Uele
Lualaba
Day 20. Cairo - Alexandria This morning we travel to Wadi el Natroun, home to some of the world’s earliest Christian monasteries, before continuing on to the city of Alexandria. [B,L] Special Experience: Visit the selfsufficient Coptic Monastery of St Bishoy. Day 21. Alexandria A great day as we explore Alexandria, including the National Museum, Pompey’s Pillar, the Catacombs, the New Bibliotheca and the Montazah Palace. [B,L]
Finish Total cost pp, twin share
12-Jul 05-Aug $9,495
11-Oct
16-Aug 09-Sep $9,495
25-Oct 18-Nov $9,695
30-Aug 23-Sep $9,495
08-Nov 02-Dec $9,695
13-Sep 07-Oct $9,495
22-Nov 16-Dec $9,495
27-Sep 21-Oct $9,695
27-Dec 20-Jan $9,595
04-Nov $9,695
Dijbouti
2017 10-Jan 03-Feb $9,795
07-Mar 31-Mar $9,595
24-Jan 17-Feb $9,595
25-Apr 19-May $9,595
07-Feb 03-Mar $9,595
27-Jun 21-Jul $9,595
21-Feb 17-Mar $9,595 price valid from: E t h i o p i a Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane & Perth She
single supplement: From $1,690
bele
day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary depending on your city of departure. Please note: Additional departure dates e
ab
Sh
Inclusions travel: Gulf • o f Return Aden
economy-class flights between Australia, Egypt & Jordan. Taxes included. • 3 economy-class flights within Egypt and Jordan • Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
transportation: Coach, camel, 4WD, boat, plane, Nile River cruise & felucca sailboat
accommodation & meals: S o m a l i a• 17 nights in good quality hotels (4-5
K e(onnTuesdays) y a e are available. Pleaseellcontact us for details.
All departures on this tour are guaranteed with a minimum of just 2 passengers.
Y e m e n
2016
Eritrea
a
Rwanda Day 19. Aswan - Cairo A free morning in Aswan to explore and pick up some handcrafted Nubian souvenirs before flying back to Cairo. [B]
Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share
bb Ju
Uganda
Day 18. Ituri Disembark Nile Cruise - Aswan After disembarking we explore Aswan, Co ngo including the High Dam, the picturesque Temple of Isis on Philae Island, and the Lake Edward Lo Unfinished Obelisk. Later weLake board a Victoria m am i traditional felucca sailing boat for a relaxing LakeKivu cruise on the River Nile. [B] Congo
i Aruwim
Start
le
cross the desert to the incredible twin temples of Abu Simbel. Originally carved out of the mountainside during the reignU of Pharaoh Ramses II, the ele entire complex was relocated to an artificial hill high above the Aswan High Dam reservoir inLake the 1960s. [B,L,D] Albert
Guaranteed Departures
Dates & Prices
na Ge
tain un Mo
entral Day 17. Nile Cruise Special Experience: We rise early to a Republic
of
27
Tigri s
The prices above include air taxes and fuel Tana of $820. This amount is correct at surcharges time of printing but subject to change. All prices shown are per person based on twin-share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. For full terms and conditions please see pages 42 to 43.
Day 22. Alexandria - El Alamein - Cairo Special Experience: Our journey takes us along the Mediterranean coast to the historic site of El Alamein where we pay a moving visit to the Commonwealth War Cemetery. We continue on to Cairo. [B] Day 23. Cairo Today we visit the Citadel of Cairo and the Mohammed Ali Mosque, before a visit to the lively Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. Later, we venture into the bustling heart of Cairo to
star) • 1 night at a desert camp with shared facilities • 4 nights in an outside cabin on board a luxury Nile River cruise including all meals • 22 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 14 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
tour guides: • English-speaking local guide in Jordan and expert Egyptologist guides who will bring the fascinating history of ancient Egypt alive
tips: Tipping Made Easy, $315pp AUD prepaid
visit the world-famous Egyptian Museum, home to Tutankhamun’s priceless treasures and many other historic artefacts. We end our unforgettable tour with a group farewell dinner this evening. [B,D] Day 24. Depart Cairo Today we begin our journey home. [B] Day 25. Arrive in Australia
28
Small Group Touring Egypt, Israel & Jordan
Jerash, Jordan Paul Cook
days:
EGYPT, ISRAEL & JORDAN
from
23 10,895pp $
Flights Included
Welcome to the cradle of civilisation! Marvel at the accomplishments of early civilisations as you gaze upon the wonders of ancient Egypt, visit the sacred places of old Jerusalem, and see the fascinating and breathtakingly beautiful Lost City of Petra.
Highlights • See the awe-inspiring Great Pyramids of Giza and iconic Sphinx • Relax on a 4-night Nile cruise • Explore the impressive Valley of the Kings • Visit the phenomenal Abu Simbel Temples • Tour the Old City of Jerusalem • Swim (or float!) in the Dead Sea • Visit the incredible Lost City of Petra • Tour the desert of Wadi Rum by 4WD and camel
Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia Day 2. Arrive in Cairo Today we arrive in Cairo, the sprawling capital of Egypt. where we are welcomed by our local guide and taken to our hotel. This evening we enjoy a group welcome dinner. [D] Day 3. Cairo Our touring in Egypt starts with the ancient capital of Memphis and the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara, the first Egyptian pyramid. Then we visit the only remaining wonder of the ancient world, the Great Pyramids of Giza and the nearby Sphinx - you’ll be amazed by the sheer size of these structures! [B] Day 4. Cairo Today we visit the Citadel of Cairo and the Mohammed Ali Mosque, before trying out our bargaining skills at the lively Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. Later we venture into the bustling heart of Cairo to visit the world-famous Egyptian Museum, home to Tutankhamun’s priceless treasures. [B] Special Experience: See the famous solid gold mask of ‘King Tut’, weighing 11kg!
MAXIMUM
GROUP SIZE
20
Day 7. Nile Cruise Today we visit the Temple of Horus in Edfu, one of the best-preserved of Egypt’s temples. We then sail on to the riverside temple of Kom Ombo, before continuing to Aswan. [B,L,D] Day 8. Nile Cruise Special Experience: We rise early to cross the desert to the incredible twin temples of Abu Simbel. Originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II, the entire complex was relocated to an artificial hill, high above the Aswan High Dam reservoir in the 1960s. This afternoon, we enjoy a relaxing trip aboard a traditional felucca sailboat on the calm waters of the Nile. [B,L,D] Day 9. Disembark Nile Cruise - Cairo Today we explore Aswan. Highlights include the High Dam, an engineering masterpiece built in the 1960s, the picturesque Temple of Isis on Philae Island, and the Unfinished Obelisk. Then we return to Cairo, where we enjoy a group dinner to farewell Egypt. [B,D]
Day 5. Cairo - Luxor - Nile Cruise We leave bustling Cairo and fly to Luxor, on the banks of the Nile, where we explore the fascinating Karnak and Luxor Temples. We overnight in Luxor on board our Nile River cruise. [B,L,D]
Day 10. Cairo - Tel Aviv - Haifa We leave Egypt and fly on to Israel - a land of amazing diversity, beauty and history. On arrival in Tel Aviv we visit the Diaspora Museum, before heading along the coastal plain to the ancient city of Caesarea. Here we see the excavations of the Crusader city and Roman port, as well as the restored amphitheatre. [B]
Day 6. Nile Cruise An amazing and unforgettable day as we explore the underground tombs of the Valley of the Kings. We also visit the massive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. [B,L,D]
Day 11. Haifa - Tel Aviv We take a city tour of Haifa, beginning with a visit to the summit of Mount Carmel, where we are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Haifa Bay and the western Galilee. [B]
Small Group Touring Egypt, Israel & Jordan
29
Tigr is
Haifa 1 Caesarea Tel Aviv 2 ISRAEL
Jerusalem
h
Karkhe Eup h
rate s
2 Amman 2 1 Dead Sea 2
Cairo (3,1) 4
Jerusalem, Israel Sacha Bunnik
Jerash
Eilat
Petra
JORDAN
Kuwait
1 Wadi Rum
1
Aqaba
ile N
EGYPT
Persian Gulf
Red Sea
Valley of the Kings
Luxor
Nile Cruise (4)
Edfu Kom Ombo Aswan Lake Nasser
Abu Simbel
Day 12. Tel Aviv A day at leisure to explore the cosmopolitan city of Tel Aviv. [B] Day 13. Tel Aviv - Jerusalem Nile We travel to Jerusalem to enjoy a full day of sightseeing. [B] Special Experience: We enter the Old City to wander through the Armenian and Jewish Quarters and visit the restored Cardo. Other highlights include the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Blu
Day 14. Bethlehem We explore Bethlehem on a half-day tour that includes Rachel’s Tomb, the Church of the Nativity and Manger Square, then spend the afternoon at leisure. [B] White N ile
Day 16. Aqaba - Wadi Rum Sa ba t Today we drive to the spectacular desert of Wadi Rum and arrive at our desert campsite. We take a camel ride through the uniquely Aku shaped mountains, before returning tobu camp for an unforgettable night under a sky of a million stars. [B,L,D] e Nil
mou
Lualaba
Day 19. Petra - Dead Sea LakeKivu We head north and visit the Crusader castle of Kerak, and then Mt Nebo, then continue Rwanda on to the lowest place on Earth, the Dead Sea. The salt content of the water is four times that of most oceans, so you can float without trying, which makes a truly unique experience! [B,L,D]
2017
16-Aug 07-Sep $10,895
10-Jan 01-Feb $11,495
06-Sep 28-Sep $10,995
07-Feb
11-Oct 02-Nov $11,395
07-Mar 29-Mar $11,395
01-Nov 23-Nov $11,295
18-Apr
29-Nov 21-Dec $11,295
02-May 24-May $11,395
• Economy-class flights from Australia to Egypt and Jordan. Taxes included. • 3 economy-class flights within Egypt
Y e m n and e Israel
01-Mar $11,395
• Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
10-May $11,795
transportation:
price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane & Perth
Dijbouti
accommodation & meals: • 15 nights in good quality hotels (3-5 star)
single supplement: From $1,950 day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary depending on your city of departure.
• 4 nights in an outside cabin on board a luxury Nile River cruise including all meals • 1 night at a desert camp with shared facilities
Please note: Additional departure dates (on Tuesdays) are available. Please contact us for details.
E t h i o p i a
The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $825. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change. All prices shown are per person based on twin-share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details.
Coach, camel, 4WD, boat, plane, Nile G u l f &o felucca f A d e n sailboat River cruise
She
bele
For full terms and conditions please see pages 42 to 43.
K 20. e Dead n y Sea a - Amman Day lle ee ab We travel to Amman which is one of the oldest Sh continuously inhabited cities on the planet. [B,D]
• 20 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 13 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
tour guides: • Expert Egyptologist guides in Egypt
local guides in S oand mEnglish-speaking alia Israel and Jordan
tips: Tipping Made Easy, $240pp AUD prepaid
a
ngo
2016
Eritrea
travel:
Finish Total cost pp, twin share
bb Ju
Day 18. Petra Lake Albert Uganda A real tour highlight as we discover the Ituri famous Lost City of Petra! [B,D] Special Experience: We enter Petra via an 800m-long gorge, flanked by soaring Edward we reach the awe-inspiring cliffs,Lake before Treasury. Lake Victoria
Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share
Inclusions
le
Day 17. Wadi Rum - Petra After breakfast we take an exciting 4WD tour through the magnificent landscape before continuing to ‘Little Petra’ in the afternoon. Uele Dating back some 9,000 years, it is one of the oldest archaeological sites in the Middle East. [B,D]
Start
na Ge
tain un Mo
al ublic
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Day 15. Jerusalem - Aqaba Heading south past the Dead Sea to Eilat, we cross the border into Jordan. We arrive in the resort city of Aqaba which historically has been a key trading point between Africa, Europe and Asia. [B,D]
Dates & Prices
Day 21. Jerash Tana Another tour highlight as we visit the incredibly well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash. We also visit the city of Umm Qais and the impressive Ajloun Castle. Back in Amman, we enjoy a group farewell dinner. [B,D] Day 22. Depart Amman We bid farewell to Jordan as we start our journey home. [B] Day 23. Arrive in Australia
Karnak Temple, Luxor Annelieke Huijgens
30
Small Group Touring Jordan & Oman
Local Omani girls play on the street Oman Tourism
days:
JORDAN & OMAN
New Tour
19
from
9,895pp
$
Flights Included
A true Arabian adventure as you discover the jewels of Jordan and the mystical treasures of Oman! Explore the Lost City of Petra, visit Roman ruins, Arabian forts, and soak up the stark beauty of incredible desert landscapes.
Highlights • Tour the Wadi Rum desert by jeep and camel • Swim (or float!) in the Dead Sea • Visit the incredible Lost City of Petra • Learn about the nesting habits of the green sea turtles on the beach of Ras Al Hadd where every year 30,000 turtles come to lay their eggs • Wake up to the magnificent desert sunrise of the Wahiba Sands • Enjoy a dhow cruise through the fjords of the Musandam Peninsula
Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia Day 2. Arrive in Amman Welcome to Jordan. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel. This evening we enjoy a delicious group welcome dinner. [D] Day 3. Jerash We head back in time as we begin our tour of Jordan, visiting the beautifully preserved Roman cities of Jerash and Umm Qais, as well as the impressive Ajloun Castle. [B,D] Day 4. Amman - Dead Sea Our sightseeing today begins at biblical Mt Nebo, where Moses is said to have been shown the Promised Land. Then we head to the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea. [B,L,D] Special Experience: Take a swim in the Dead Sea where you can float without trying, and cover your body in the mud, which is said to have theraputic benefits for your skin. Day 5. Dead Sea - Wadi Rum We drive south to the spectacular desert landscape of Wadi Rum. We enjoy a camel ride through the desert sands before spending the night in a Bedouin camp underneath a blanket of stars. [B,L,D] Day 6. Wadi Rum - Aqaba We rise early to experience a thrilling jeep tour of this breathtaking rock and sand landscape, guided by local Bedouin tribesmen. Later, we continue south to picturesque Aqaba, Jordan’s major tourism resort and only seaport. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. [B,D] Day 7. Aqaba - Petra We’ll experience the warm crystal-clear waters
MAXIMUM
GROUP SIZE
20
of the Red Sea as we cruise through the Aqaba Marine Park, before making our way to Petra with a stop en route to visit Al Beidha, also known as “Little Petra”. This miniature version of Petra is thought to date back more than 9,000 years and is historically significant in its own right. [B,L,D] Day 8. Petra A real tour highlight today, as we explore the famous Lost City of Petra. Built by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago, Petra was an important junction for the silk, spice and other trade routes that linked the ancient Eastern world with that of the West. [B,D] Special Experience: We enter Petra through the Siq, a narrow, 800m-long gorge, flanked on either side by soaring, 80m-high cliffs, before we reach the awe-inspiring Treasury, hewn into the rose-coloured sandstone cliff face. Day 9. Petra - Amman Today we head north to the magnificent Crusader fortress of Kerak and then on to Amman. [B,D] Day 10. Amman - Muscat We travel to Muscat, the eclectic capital city of the Sultanate of Oman. [B] Day 11. Muscat This morning we will explore Muscat, starting at the glorious Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Next we’ll visit the lively Muttrah Souq, which is thought to be one of the oldest marketplaces in the Arab world. We’ll see the Sultan’s Palace, and finish at the privately owned Bait Al Zubair Museum, where we’ll see a fine display of Omani culture and history. [B,D] Day 12. Muscat - Ras al Hadd Travelling by 4WD along the spectacular coast, we’ll visit the fishing village of Qurayyat on the
Small Group Touring Jordan & Oman
31
Jerash Dead 1 Sea
2 3
Petra 2
Amman (2,1) JORDAN 1 Wadi Rum
1
Aqaba
Khasab
2
Dubai Re d Sea
Persian Gulf
OMAN
3
Muscat (2,1) Sur 1
Nizwa 1 1
Ras al Hadd
Wahiba Sands
way to Wadi Shab, where we’ll enjoy a short hike before we stop for lunch. Continuing on, we reach Oman’s first capital, the old African port of Sur. This evening we will head to the beach to witness the nesting area of the green sea turtle. [B,L,D] Day 13. Ras al Hadd - Wahiba Sands le Ni Today’s adventure takes you to the Salalah enchanting Wadi Bani Khalid, where you can swim in the cool clear waters. Heading inland to the vast expanse of the Wahiba Sands, you’ll spend the night under a blanket of stars in a Bedouin desert campsite. [B,D] Eritrea
White N ile
ile eN
Blu
Day 14. Wahiba Sands - Nizwa Waking to the sun rising over the desert dunes, our tour today includes the old abandoned mercantile village of Al Mansfah and the town of Nizwa where we visit its round fort and the Silver Souq, renowned for its handcrafted jewellery. [B] Special Experience: Visit a Bedouin house and experience their warm Omani hospitality with a cup of Kahwa (Arabic coffee) & dates.
Start
Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share
Finish Total cost pp, twin share
travel:
31-Jan $10,095
2017 13-Jan
07-Oct 25-Oct $9,995
03-Feb 21-Feb $10,095
• 1 economy-class flight from Amman to Muscat
03-Mar 21-Mar $10,095
• 1 economy-class flight within Oman
09-May $10,095
• Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
04-Nov 22-Nov $9,995 02-Dec 20-Dec $9,895
Y e m e n 21-Apr
price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane & Perth
• All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
single supplement: From $1,895
Coach, camel, 4WD, plane & dhow
day & date variations: Gulf of Aden Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary depending on your city of departure.
accommodation & meals:
Dijbouti
The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $860. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change. All prices shown are per person based on twin-share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. please see E For t hfull iterms o pandi conditions a pages 42 to 43.
• 14 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star) • 2 nights at desert camps with shared facilities • 16 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 12 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
tour guides: • English-speaking local guides in Jordan and Oman
Tipping Made Easy, $260pp AUD prepaid
She
bele
Somalia
Why not extend? a bb Ju
Day 19. Arrive in Australia
transportation:
tips:
lle
ee
ab
Sh
Tana
Day 18. Khasab - Depart Dubai Today we begin our journey home. [B]
• Return economy-class flights between Australia, Jordan & Oman . Taxes included.
09-Sep 27-Sep $9,995
Day 17. Khasab Special We spend a fabulous Lake Experience: Victoria morning on a traditional dhow cruising the fjords of the Musandam Peninsula, we’ll have the opportunity to wanda where swim or snorkel in the pristine waters. After lunch on board the dhow we’ll take a scenic drive through the mountains to enjoy magnificent views over the Gulf of Oman. This evening we share a group farewell dinner. [B,L,D]
rd
Inclusions
2016
le na
e Nil
Day 16. Muscat - Khasab We fly to Khasab, the local capital of the Musandam Peninsula, dubbed the ‘Norway of Arabia’ because of its fjord-like inlets Lake Albert and surrounding Uganda mountains.K Our e tour n yhere a includes the restored Fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and the 2,000year-old rock carvings at Wadi Tawi. [B]
Dates & Prices
Ge
tain un Mo
Day 15. Nizwa - Muscat Special Experience: We rise early and go to Sa Nizwa’s unique goat market, an ba t excellent way to experience the local culture and people. On our way back to Muscat, we stop to visit Aku bu the UNESCO World Heritage-listed mudbrick fort of Bahla, and the beautifully decorated Jabrin Fort. We stop at the picturesque village of Misfat Al Abrein where time seems to have stood still, to enjoy a traditional Omani lunch. [B,L]
Wadi Bani Khalid, Oman Prasad Pillai
Add our Independent Tour of Salalah to see southern Oman’s ‘garden city’, explore the ruined ancient city of Samharam, visit Dofar and see Bin Ali’s Tomb.
Need some inspiration? Lost City of Petra, Jordan Annelieke Huijgens
Read our travel stories on bunniktours.com.au/blog
32
Small Group Touring Turkey & Jordan
Library of Celsus, Ephesus Erkan Karpuz
days:
TURKEY & JORDAN
New Tour
22
from
9,295pp
$
Flights Included
Bound by history and geography, ties between Jordan and Turkey run deep. Explore the relationship between these two fascinating lands as you visit ancient and iconic monuments, see amazing natural landscapes and meet the local people.
Highlights • See the fantastic sights of Istanbul • Test your bargaining skills in the Grand Bazaar • Sense the spirit of the Anzacs in Gallipoli • Visit Ephesus, the largest Roman city ever uncovered • Explore the surreal landscape of Cappadocia • Explore Wadi Rum by jeep and camel • Swim (or float!) in the Dead Sea • Visit the incredible Lost City of Petra
Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia Day 2. Arrive in Istanbul Welcome to Turkey and the legendary city of Istanbul! On arrival we will be transferred to our hotel. Tonight meet your fellow travellers and tour director over a welcome cocktail. Day 3. Istanbul An exciting day as we tour Istanbul’s many highlights. Starting at the famous Basilica Cistern, we’ll move on to the magnificent Hagia Sophia and the Hippodrome. Our touring includes the unique Blue Mosque - a true icon of this city. We’ll try our bargaining skills at the aromatic Spice Bazaar before tonight’s group dinner. [B,D] Special Experience: Enjoy taste-testing some Turkish delicacies, including baklava and Turkish coffee, and of course, Turkish delight! Day 4. Istanbul - Gallipoli - Çanakkale This is a special day as we make our way to Gallipoli to pay homage to the spirit of the Anzacs. In Gallipoli, we visit Anzac Cove and the Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials. [B,D] Day 5. Çanakkale - Kuşadasi On our way to Kuşadasi today, we stop at Troy and see the symbolic wooden Trojan Horse. We then visit the historic town of Pergamum, which was once ruled by Alexander the Great. [B,L] Special Experience: Watch a pide making demonstration (Turkish pizza), once out of the wood oven fire, lunch is served! Day 6. Ephesus A wonderful day of antiquity as we visit Ephesus, the largest Roman city ever uncovered. We walk through the streets of Ephesus, passing by the
MAXIMUM
GROUP SIZE
20
Library of Celsus, the Temple of Artemis and the Sacred House of the Virgin Mary. [B] Day 7. Kuşadasi - Pamukkale We travel to Pamukkale via Aphrodisias and its famed Sculpture School. It’s also home to the largest stadium in the Classical world. [B,D] Day 8. Pamukkale - Konya Before travelling to Konya, we explore Pamukkale, a unique natural formation of terraced, shallow white pools, created over the course of 14,000 years, plus the hot springs at the ancient city of Hierapolis. [B] Day 9. Konya - Cappadocia Today we visit the Mevlana Museum where we learn about the mystical Whirling Dervishes. Later we enjoy a tour of Catalhöyük, a neolithic site complete with spectacular wall paintings. [B,D] Day 10. Cappadocia The lunar-like landscape of Cappadocia will amaze you! We explore this fascinating region with its ‘fairy chimneys’, and the nearby Göreme Valley. [B,D] Day 11. Cappadocia - Istanbul This morning we explore one of Cappadocia’s underground cities and the quaint village of Avanos, famous for its handmade pottery, before our flight to Istanbul. [B] Day 12. Istanbul We’ve come full circle and are now back in bustling Istanbul where there is still so much to see. We’ll visit the opulent Topkapi Palace, as well as the bustling Grand Bazaar. [B,D] Day 13. Istanbul - Amman Today we farewell Turkey and fly to Jordan. This evening we enjoy a delicious group dinner. [B,D]
Small Group Touring Turkey & Jordan Tigr is
Bucharest
Danube
Jerash
Istanbul (2,2) Gallipoli
Göreme Valley
Dead 1 Sea
Cappadocia 2
Petra 2
4 1 Çanakkale
Troy
TURKEY
Pergamum
Kuşadasi
2
33
Cairo (3,2) 1 1 Pamukkale
Konya
h
Karkhe
Amman 2 3 (2,1)
Eup h
rate s
JORDAN
Kuwait
1 Wadi Rum
1
Aqaba
Persian Gulf
Red Sea
Hot air ballooning* over Cappadocia, Turkey Marion Bunnik (*optional activity)
Dead Sea, Jordan Dennis Bunnik
Dates & Prices Start
SUDAN
le Ni
Day 14. Jerash Today we head back in time as we begin our tour of Jordan, visiting the beautifully preserved Roman cities of Umm Qais and Jerash, as well as the impressive Ajloun Castle. [B,D]
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Day 16. Dead Sea - Wadi Rum Today we head south to the desert of Wadi Rum. We take a camel ride before spending Aku the night in a Bedouin camp underneath a bu blanket of stars. [B,L,D] e Nil
2017
29-Aug 19-Sep $9,495
02-Jan 23-Jan $9,595
• 1 economy-class flight within Turkey
26-Sep 17-Oct $9,495
23-Jan 13-Feb $9,595
24-Oct 14-Nov $9,495
20-Feb 13-Mar $9,595
• 1 economy-class flight from Istanbul to Amman
21-Nov 12-Dec $9,295
10-Apr
• Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
01-May $9,995
Y e m e n
price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane & Perth
• All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
single supplement: From $1,395
Coach, boat, plane, camel & 4WD
day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary depending on your city of departure.
accommodation & meals:
transportation:
• 19 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star) Gulf of Aden • 1 night at a desert camp with shared facilities
Dijbouti
The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,085. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change.
• 19 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 14 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
All prices shown are per person based on twin-share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details.
tour guides: • English-speaking local guides in Turkey and Jordan
For full terms and conditions please see pages 42 to 43.
tips: Day 19. Petra E t h i o A real tour highlight today, as we see one of the most recognisable sites in the world first-hand; the famous Lost City of Petra. Built by the Arab Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago, Petra was an important junction for the silk, spice and other trade routes that linked the ancient Eastern world with that of the West. [B,D] Special Experience: We enter Petra through the Siq, a narrow, 800m-long gorge, flanked on either side by soaring, K e cliffs, n ybefore a we reach the 80m-high awe-inspiring Treasury, hewn into the rose-coloured sandstone cliff face.
Made Easy, $250pp AUD prep i Tipping a paid
She
bePetra, le
le
ba
Day 20. Petra - Amman na the magnificent Today we head northTato Crusader fortress of Kerak and then to Amman. [B,D] Day 21. Depart Amman Today we begin our journey home. [B] Day 22. Arrive in Australia
Jordan David Hein
Somalia
b Ju
We enjoy a thrilling jeep tour of this rock and sand landscape, guided by local Bedouin tribesmen who still live in the traditional nomadic way. Later, we continue south to Aqaba, Jordan’s only coastal city. Uele Surrounded by picturesque mountains and the Red Sea, Aqaba is Jordan’s major tourism resort and only seaport. Enjoy the remainder Lake Albert of the day at leisure to explore orUganda relax. [B,D]
Ituri Aqaba - Petra Day 18. We’ll experience the warm crystal-clear ong o waters of the Red Sea as we cruise through the Aqaba Marine Park, before making our Lake Edward way to Petra with a stop en route to visit Al Beidha or, as it is also known, “Little LakePetra”. Victoria m am Hidden away amidst the spectacular hills, i this miniature version of Petra is thought Congoto date backLakeKivu more than 9,000 years and is Rwanda historically significant in its own right. [B,L,D] Lualaba
• Return economy-class flights between Australia, Turkey & Jordan. Taxes included.
2016
na Ge
tain un Mo
tral Day 17. Wadi Rum - Aqaba epublic
e
travel:
Finish Total cost pp, twin share
Eritrea
Day 15. Amman - Dead Sea We start our day at the biblical Mt Nebo, where Moses is said to have been shown the Promised Land. Then it’s on to the Dead Sea, where the salt content of the water is four times that of most oceans, making swimming here a truly unique experience! [B,L,D] Special Experience: Take a swim in the Dead Sea where you can float without trying, or cover your body in the mud, which is said to have therapeutic benefits for your skin. Sa
ou Mbom
Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share
Inclusions
lle
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Sh
34
Small Group Touring Best of Egypt & Turkey
Luxor Temple, Egypt Dennis Bunnik
days:
BEST OF EGYPT & TURKEY
23
from
9,295pp
$
Flights Included
Discover the ancient civilisations of Turkey and Egypt, two of the world’s most intriguing countries, each with its own incredible history. You’ll see ancient monuments, beautiful landscapes and priceless treasures that will leave you breathless.
Highlights • Fantastic sightseeing tour of Istanbul • Visit the surreal landscape of the Goreme Valley • Explore Ephesus, the largest ancient city ever uncovered • Visit the unique hot springs at Pamukkale • See the Great Pyramids of Giza • Visit the iconic Sphinx • Cruise the Nile • Visit the stunning temples of Abu Simbel
Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia Day 2. Arrive in Istanbul Welcome to Turkey! Sitting on the cusp of Europe and Asia, the city of Istanbul is a fascinating blend of cultures and history. Tonight meet your fellow travellers and tour director for a welcome cocktail. Day 3. Istanbul We start our day with a tour of the magnificent Topkapi Palace, filled with treasures and antiquities. We then explore the Hippodrome and unique Blue Mosque, built in 1609 by Sultan Ahmet. The interior walls are covered with 20,000 blue Iznik tiles. In the afternoon we visit the colourful Spice Bazaar and taste some local delights before tonight’s group welcome dinner in a local restaurant. [B,D] Day 4. Istanbul - Gallipoli - Çanakkale This morning we depart early for Gallipoli. [B,D] Special Experience: Our tour of Gallipoli includes Anzac Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair and Johnston’s Jolly where we pay tribute to the sacrifices of the Anzacs. Day 5. Çanakkale - Troy - Kuşadasi On the way to Kuşadasi we visit Troy to learn about the legendary wooden horse and the Trojan Wars. We then visit the ancient Roman site of Pergamum, once ruled by Alexander the Great. [B,L] Day 6. Ephesus Today we explore Ephesus, the largest Roman city ever uncovered. We walk through the streets of Ephesus passing by the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Artemis and the Sacred House of the Virgin Mary, where she is reputed to have spent her last days. [B]
MAXIMUM
GROUP SIZE
20
Day 7. Kuşadasi - Pamukkale We continue east to Aphrodisias, dedicated to the goddess of love, Aphrodite. The Sculpture School of Aphrodisias enjoyed great fame; this is demonstrated by the fine marble statues and architectural reliefs scattered throughout the site. [B,D] Day 8. Pamukkale - Konya Today we explore Pamukkale, a unique natural formation of terraced shallow white pools, created over the course of 14,000 years, plus the hot springs at the ancient city of Hierapolis. [B] Day 9. Konya - Cappadocia Our morning starts with a visit to Mevlana Museum to learn about the mystical religious sect known as the Whirling Dervishes, before exploring the Neolithic site of Catalhöyük. [B,D] Day 10. Cappadocia Our sightseeing begins with a visit to the fascinating Göreme Valley. Over thousands of years, the rain has eroded this landscape to give rise to strange rock formations known as ‘fairy chimneys’. We also explore the hidden monastic valley of Paşabaği. [B,D] Day 11. Cappadocia - Istanbul This morning we visit one of the amazing underground cities in Cappadocia, as well as the village of Avanos, known for its ceramics, before returning to Istanbul. [B,L] Day 12. Istanbul - Cairo After breakfast, we visit the domed Hagia Sophia, which was built in 532 AD by Constantine the Great, before flying to bustling Cairo, in Egypt. [B,D] Day 13. Cairo Prepare to be awed! This morning you will be standing in front of the only remaining wonder of the ancient world, the Great Pyramids of Giza.
Small Group Touring Best of Egypt & Turkey Bucharest
Danube
Tigr is
SYRIA Gallipoli
Istanbul (2,1) Göreme 3 JORDAN Valley 1 Çanakkale
Troy
TURKEY
Pergamum ISRAEL
Kuşadasi
Cairo (3,2) 5
35
2
Karkheh Eup h
rate s
Cappadocia 2
1 Pamukkale
1
Konya
Kuwait Lebanon
EGYPT
Persian Gulf
ile N
Valley of the Kings
Luxor
Nile Cruise (4)
SAUDI ARABIA
Edfu Kom Ombo 1 Aswan Red Sea Lake Nasser
Blue Mosque, Istanbul Dennis Bunnik
Abu Simbel
Dates & Prices
SUDAN
le Ni
Start
Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share
Inclusions travel:
Finish Total cost pp, twin share
• Return economy-class flights between Australia, Turkey & Egypt. Taxes included.
2016 09-Jan 31-Jan $9,395
20-Aug 11-Sep $9,395
20-Feb 13-Mar $9,295
01-Oct 23-Oct $9,395
Eritrea
Spice Bazaar, Istanbul Erkan Karpuz
12-Mar 03-Apr $9,695
22-Oct 13-Nov $9,395
02-Apr 24-Apr $9,695
19-Nov 11-Dec $9,395
Y •e1 m e n economy-class flight from Istanbul to Cairo • 3 economy-class flights within Turkey and Egypt • Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
28-May 19-Jun $9,395
White N ile
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We also visit the nearby Sphinx, before continuing to the Step Pyramid of Sakkara, and the former capital of Memphis. [B]
Day 14. Cairo Today we venture into the bustling heart of Cairo to visit the world-famous Egyptian Museum, home to Tutankhamun’s priceless treasures. We also visit the CitadelSaof Cairo, b the Mohammed Ali Mosque and theat Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. [B]
Co ng
Day 17. Nile Cruise Our day starts with a tour of Edfu’s Lake Edward beautifully preserved Temple of Horus. We Lo beautiful Victoria m then sail to Kom Ombo to visit its Lake am i riverside temples. [B,L,D] Lualaba
o
LakeKivu Day 18. Nile Cruise of Congo An early start asRwanda we cross the desert to the
stunning temples of Abu Simbel. [B,L,D] Special Experience: Abu Simbel - we include it! The twin temples here were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, as a lasting monument to himself
day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary depending on your city of departure.
accommodation & meals: • 16 nights in good quality hotels (3-5 star)
The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,001. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change.
E t h i o p i a
All prices shown are per person based on twin-share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details.
She
bele
and his queen, Nefertari. In the 1960s the complex was relocated in its entirety hill, high above K e tonanyartificial a the Aswan High Dam reservoir.
• 4 nights in an outside cabin on board a luxury Nile River cruise • 20 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 11 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
tour guides:
omalia •SEnglish-speaking guide in Turkey and expert Egyptologist guide in Egypt
For full terms and conditions please see pages 42 to 43.
tips: Tipping Made Easy, $220pp AUD prepaid
a bb Ju
i Aruwim
Coach, plane, Nile River cruise & felucca sailboat
le
Uele
Day 16. Nile Cruise An amazing day Uele as we explore the world’s largest open-air museum, the Valley of the Kings. We also visit the massive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Lake Albert Uganda Memnon. After sightseeing, our cruise Ituri departs Luxor. [B,L,D]
transportation:
single supplement: From $1,725
na
e Nil
Mbo
Dijbouti
Ge
tain un Mo
Aku Day 15. Cairo - Luxor - Nile Cruise bu We leave behind the hustle and bustle of CentralCairo and fly to Luxor, on the banks of the Nile. Here we explore the fascinating Karnak a Republic and Luxor Temples, before boarding our Nile River cruise. Our first night is in Luxor. [B,L,D] mou
• All touring vehicles G u l f in o fair-conditioned Aden
price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane & Perth
Day 19. Disembark Nile Cruise - Aswan After disembarking our ship in the morning, Tana we continue our tour in Aswan, taking in the High Dam, Temple of Philae and the Unfinished Obelisk. This afternoon we enjoy a relaxing cruise on a traditional felucca sailing boat on the Nile. [B] Day 20. Aswan - Cairo Today we fly to Cairo and visit the Pyramids of Dahshur. Here you will see the ‘Bent’ and ‘Red’ pyramids built by King Senefru. [B] Day 21. Cairo Enjoy a full day at leisure in Cairo before our farewell dinner tonight. [B,D]
lle
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ab
Sh
On Facebook? Like our page to keep up to date with all the latest travel news. Day 22. Depart Cairo Today we begin our journey home. [B] Day 23. Arrive in Australia
36
Small Group Touring Cairo to Zanzibar
Leopard Sarah Nicholson
days:
CAIRO TO ZANZIBAR
from
26 14,390pp $
Flights Included
The “wow!” factors on this tour just keep on coming - starting with the wonders of ancient Egypt and ending on the rolling grasslands of the Maasai Mara. On this fascinating journey you’ll cruise the Nile, enjoy amazing game drives and relax on the exotic spice island of Zanzibar.
Highlights • See the Great Pyramids of Giza and the incredible Sphinx • Explore amazing Abu Simbel • See majestic Mt Kenya, Africa’s second-highest mountain, and stunning Lake Naivasha • Enjoy a special bush dinner under the Maasai Mara stars • See the untouched beaches of Zanzibar
Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia Day 2. Arrive in Cairo Welcome to mesmerising Egypt! Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure before this evening’s welcome dinner. [D] Day 3. Cairo Our touring in Egypt starts with the ancient capital of Memphis and the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara. Then we visit the world’s most famous attractions, the Great Pyramids of Giza and the nearby Sphinx - you’ll be amazed by the sheer size of these structures. [B] Day 4. Cairo We explore Cairo, visiting the Citadel, the Mohammed Ali Mosque and Khan el-Khalili Bazaar - a great place to shop for souvenirs and handicrafts! We spend this afternoon in the worldfamous Egyptian Museum, home to the priceless treasures of Tutankhamun. [B] Day 5. Cairo - Luxor - Nile Cruise We fly to Luxor and visit the beautiful temples of Karnak and Luxor, once linked by a 3km-long Avenue of Sphinxes. This afternoon we’ll board our luxury Nile River cruise. [B,L,D] Day 6. Nile Cruise This morning we head to the Valley of the Kings where we explore several underground tombs and admire the beautifully preserved hieroglyphics. We visit the massive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and see the Colossi of Memnon. [B,L,D] Day 7. Nile Cruise Cruising further down the Nile, we stop at Edfu’s Temple of Horus - one of the best-preserved
MAXIMUM
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12
in Egypt. We then visit the impressive temple complex of Kom Ombo in Aswan. [B,L,D] Day 8. Nile Cruise Special Experience: Today we explore amazing Abu Simbel. The twin temples here were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC. In the 1960s the complex was relocated in its entirety to an artificial hill, high above the Aswan High Dam reservoir. This afternoon we relax on board a traditional felucca as we sail around Kitcheners Island. [B,L,D] Day 9. Disembark Nile Cruise - Aswan After disembarking today we’ll see the lovely Temple of Isis on Philae Island, the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk. [B] Day 10. Aswan - Cairo The morning is at leisure before our return flight to Cairo. [B] Day 11. Cairo Relax and enjoy some free time before we share a ‘farewell to Egypt dinner’ then board our overnight flight to Nairobi. [B,D] Day 12. Cairo - Nairobi ‘Karibu’ to Nairobi! This afternoon we have lunch at the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden, followed by a visit to the adjoining museum. We’ll also get up close and personal with the giraffes at the Giraffe Centre, one of Kenya’s great conservation projects. [L] Day 13. Nairobi We explore the bustling streets of Nairobi and take a tour of the city centre. [B] Day 14. Nairobi - Mt. Kenya NP Escaping the city, we’ll visit Mount Kenya, where we’ll explore the forest on foot with a ranger. [B,L,D]
REP OF CONGO
Small Group Touring Cairo to Zanzibar
Nakuru 1
Lake Victoria
JORDAN
Cairo (3,1) 4
Karnak Temple, Luxor Dennis Bunnik
2 Samburu 1 Mt Kenya
Naivasha 1 3 Nairobi (2,1)
2
Maasai Mara
KENYA
lee Ni
EEGYPT GYPT
Valley of the Kings
Nile Cruise (4)
3
Luxor Edfu Kom Ombo 1 Aswan
Zanzibar
Inclusions
Lake Nasser
travel:
Abu Simbel
Day 15. Mt. Kenya NP - Samburu National Reserve Today we’ll enjoy our first game drive through Samburu National Reserve! [B,L,D]
Day 16. Samburu National Reserve More game drives await us today, with the opportunity to see a diverse range of wildlife including zebra, ostrich, giraffe and cheetah! [B,L,D] Special Experience: Visit a Samburu village and school to learn about “a day in the life” of a Samburu family. Day 17. Samburu National Reserve - Lake Nakuru National Park A chance for us to spot the endangered rhino in beautiful Lake Nakuru National Park. The park is also famous for the thousands of flamingo that line the lake’s shore at certain times of the year. [B,L,D]
ZAMBIA do
ZIMBABWE
Day 18. Lake Nakuru NP - Lake Naivasha We travel to the magnificent Lake Naivasha in the Great Rift Valley. A popular stop for British flying boats of the 1930s, it was also the home of Joy Adamson, author of “Born Free”. We’ll enjoy afternoon tea and visit the museum containing paintings, artefacts and memorabilia from the “Born Free” film. [B,L,D]
WANA
Day 19. Lake Naivasha - Maasai Mara An exciting day as we travel to the famous Maasai Mara Reserve and enjoy a game drive, spotting elephants, giraffes, zebras, gazelles and lions! [B,L,D] Day 20. Maasai Mara We rise early for a morning game drive, before visiting a local Maasai village to see some traditional dancing and learn about their culture. [B,L,D] Special Experience: This evening we’ll enjoy a special bush dinner under the Maasai Mara stars. Day 21. Maasai Mara - Nairobi After breakfast, we’ll return to Nairobi and visit the National Museum. [B] Day 22. Nairobi - Zanzibar We fly to the tropical island of Zanzibar where we’ll spend two nights at our beachside resort, enjoying the famous white sandy beaches and warm turquoise waters. [B,D] Day 23. Zanzibar Relax and soak up the resort atmosphere, or explore the picturesque fishing villages that are dotted along the coast. [B,D]
Dates & Prices
Lake Nyasa
MALAWI
uan
37
Start
2016
Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share
Finish Total cost pp, twin share
• Return economy-class flights from Australia to Cairo, Nairobi to Australia. Taxes included. • 5 economy-class flights within Africa • 4 nights in an outside cabin on board a luxury Nile River cruise • Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles (excluding open safari 4WD)
14-Apr 09-May $14,390
MOZ.
22-Sep 17-Oct $15,290
transportation:
12-May 06-Jun $14,390
13-Oct 07-Nov $15,690
02-Jun 27-Jun $14,390
27-Oct 21-Nov $14,990
Coach, plane, Nile River cruise, felucca sailboat & 4WD
25-Aug 19-Sep $15,290
10-Nov 05-Dec $14,990
08-Sep 03-Oct $15,290
24-Nov 19-Dec $14,990
2017 12-Jan 06-Feb $15,590
09-Mar 03-Apr $15,590
09-Feb 06-Mar $15,590
23-Mar 17-Apr $15,290
23-Feb 20-Mar $15,590 price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane & Perth
accommodation & meals: • 9 nights in quality hotels (4-5 star) • 4 nights aboard luxury Nile River cruise - 5-star Egyptian standard in an outside cabin, including all meals • 5 nights in African lodges in Kenya • 2 nights in a Zanzibar beach resort • 2 nights in a luxury tent in the heart of the Maasai Mara • 22 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 16 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
MADAGASCAR
single supplement: From $1,590
day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary depending on your city of departure.
tour guides:
The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,245. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change.
entrance fees & tips:
For Kenya & Zanzibar, tipping payable locally, please allow approximately $150 AUD. All prices shown are per person based on twin-share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. For full terms and conditions please see pages 38 to 39.
Day 24. Zanzibar This morning we travel to historic Stone Town where we explore on foot. Highlights here include the Sultan’s Palace, the Old Museum and the market. The rest of the day is at leisure before our group farewell dinner. [B,D] Day 25. Zanzibar - Nairobi - Australia We bid farewell to Africa as we begin our journey home. [B] Day 26. Arrive in Australia
• English-speaking local driver/guide in Kenya, local guide in Zanzibar and expert Egyptologist guides • Entrance fees to all national parks are included • Tipping Made Easy, $135 AUD pp, prepaid (Egypt only)
Luggage Limit For the Kenya portion of the Cairo to Zanzibar tour there is a limit (15kg* per person in a soft bag) on your luggage allowance, as the vehicles and aircraft have limited storage space. *The hotel in Nairobi will offer storage facilities for excess luggage if required.
38
Independent Touring & Tour Extensions
LIKE TO SEE EVEN MORE OF THE MIDDLE EAST? If you have the luxury of time, our tour extensions and independent tours are a great way to see even more of the Middle East. We can make seamless arrangements to add these short tours to the beginning or end of your holiday to help you get the most from your time overseas. We’ve featured several of our great value extensions and independent tours in this brochure. For more options take a look at our website or have a chat with your local travel agent or Bunnik Tours consultant.
v
Independent Touring Jewels of Jordan
39
Tigr is
Jerash
h
Karkhe Eup h
rate s
3 Amman (2,1)
Dead Sea 1 Petra 2
I r a q
JORDAN
Kuwait
1 Wadi Rum
Persian Gulf
y of ngs
Luxor Edfu Kom Ombo Aswan
Wadi Rum Sacha Bunnik
Red Sea
Petra Sacha Bunnik
Lake Nasser
days:
8
2,795pp
$
Jordan is a country full of treasures. Visit worldfamous Petra in search of the wonders of the ancient Nabataean civilisation, head into Eritrea the desert and camp overnight in spectacular Wadi Rum, explore ancient Roman ruins and take a dip in the Dead Sea where you’ll float without even trying!
JEWELS OF JORDAN
Designed for the independent traveller, this tour can be combined with any of our Egypt small group tours or tour extensions.
Itinerary Day 1. Amman Welcome to Jordan. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. [D] Day 2. Amman - Jerash Amman You start your touring of Jordan with a city tour of Amman, then visit the beautifully preserved Roman cities of Umm Qais and Jerash and the impressive Ajloun Castle. The castle is located on the site of an old monastery and was built in 1184. It once controlled traffic along the road connecting Damascus and Egypt. [B]
Dijbouti
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Day 3. Amman - Dead Sea Today you visit the city of Madaba known for its ancient mosaics, then travel to Mt Nebo, the biblical site where Moses is said to have been shown the Promised Land. You’ll continue on to the Dead Sea, which is the lowest place on Earth. Here you will have free time to float in the salty waters and cover yourself in the therapeutic mud. [B,L,D]
Sa
ba t
Day 5. Wadi Rum - Petra Take an exciting 4WD tour of the incredible desert landscape before continuing to Petra, where you will visit ‘Little Petra’ in the afternoon. [B] Day 6. Petra Today will be a truly memorable experience as you explore one of the world’s greatest treasures: the famous Lost City of Petra. It is a vast, unique city, carved into the sheer rock face by the Nabataeans, an industrious Arab people who settled here more than 2,000 years ago. Petra was once an important junction G u other lf of Aden for the silk, spice and trade routes that linked China, India and southern Arabia, with Egypt, Syria, Greece and Rome. Entrance to the city is through the Siq, a narrow, 800m-long gorge, flanked on either side by soaring, 80m-high cliffs. As you reach the end of the Siq you will catch your first glimpse of the Treasury. [B]
Y e m e n
Inclusions travel: • All transfers and touring in a private air-conditioned vehicle
accommodation & meals: • 6 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star) including: • The Grand Palace Hotel, Amman • Holiday Inn Resort, Dead Sea • Petra Moon Hotel, Petra • Overnight stay in Hillawee Desert Camp with shared facilities in Wadi Rum (bedding provided) • 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 4 dinners
tour guides: • English-speaking locally based guide
Day 7. Petra - Amman This morning you get to revisit the Lost City of Petra before travelling back to Amman. [B,D]
E t h i o p i a Day 8. Amman
Aku
bu
Today you transfer to Amman Airport for your onward flight. [B]
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na
Ge
Day 4. Dead Sea - Wadi Rum We visit the Crusader castle of Kerak, before heading south to the unique desert landscape of She Wadi Rum, where you’ll explore bel e the area on a camel safari. Later, arrive at your desert campsite for an unforgettable night under a sky of a million stars. [B,L,D]
Jerash Paul Cook
Somalia
Prices are per person based on twin-share with a minimum of 2 people. Seasonal surcharges apply. Please contact our office for details.
40
Tour Extension Israel ex Tel Aviv | Israel ex Jerusalem Tigri s
ISRAEL EX TEL AVIV
Haifa ISRAEL Tel Aviv 3
days:
4
Jerusalem
Masada
Dead Sea
from
1,225pp
$
Country visited: Israel ‘Pearls of the Western Coast’ does not operate on Thursday.
I r a q
This tour extension can be added to any of our Egypt & the Middle East small group tours.
Inclusions travel • Return transfers from Ben Gurion Airport to your hotel in Tel Aviv • All sightseeing is based on ‘seat in coach’ touring in shared vehicles with bilingual guides
Masada Marion Bunnik
Itinerary
accommodation & meals
Day 1. Tel Aviv Welcome to Israel, a country of amazing diversity and beauty with a complicated and fascinating history. You will be met and transferred to your hotel.
• 3 nights at the Melody Hotel, Tel Aviv (3-4 star) or similar • 3 breakfasts
tour guides • English-speaking local guides
Luxor (2)
Day 2. Haifa
Today you enjoy the ‘Pearls Edfu of the Western Coast’ tour. Prices are per person based on Kom Ombo Drive along the coastal road to twin-share with a minimum of Caesarea, the ancient Roman 2 people. Seasonal surcharges Aswan (1) apply. Other star-rated hotels are capital, walk through the also available. Please contact R our theatre e d S e a and archaeological office for details.
ruins before continuing to Haifa
Lake Nasser
with its Bahai Gardens. Next is Rosh Hanikra where you visit the limestone grottoes on the border with Lebanon. We’ll then stop in Acre to visit the Crusader and Turkish underground city and crypt. Enjoy a walk through the old city and Oriental market, see the Arab mosque plus the old port. [B] Day 3. Masada and the Dead Sea Today you travel via the Judean hills to the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth. Here you visit the “Ahava” Dead Sea cosmetics factory and enjoy a scenic drive along the shore to Masada.
Ascend by cable car and tour the mountain fortress built by King Herod, where the Zealots made their last stand against the Romans. Visit the remains of the walls, palaces, synagogue, water cisterns, mosaic floors, Roman baths and other structures. You then return to the Dead Sea where you can enjoy a swim or just float in the warm salty waters. On the way back to your hotel you see the Qumran caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. [B] Day 4. Tel Aviv Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. [B]
Tigri s
ISRAEL EX JERUSALEM
Capernaum Tiberias Nazareth
days:
Tel Aviv Jerusalem 3
4
Bethlehem
from
1,285pp
$
Country visited: Israel
ISRAEL Dead Sea
‘Biblical Highlights of the North’ does not operate on Sunday.
le Ni
This tour extension can be added to any of our Egypt & the Middle East small group tours, ask for details.
Inclusions travel • Return transfers from Ben Gurion Airport to your hotel in Jerusalem • All sightseeing is based on ‘seat in coach’ touring in shared vehicles with bilingual guides
View of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives Sacha Bunnik
Eritrea Itinerary
accommodation & meals • 3 nights at the Harmony Hotel, Jerusalem (3-star) or similar • 3 breakfasts
tour guides • English-speaking locally based
Luxor (2) guides
Edfu Prices are per person based on Kom Ombo twin-share with a minimum of 2 people. Seasonal surcharges Aswan (1) apply. Other star-rated hotels are also available. Please contactR our ed S office for details.
Lake Nasser
I r a q
Day 1. Jerusalem Welcome to Israel! You will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel, where the remainder of the day is at leisure. Day 2. Jerusalem - Bethlehem Your tour begins at the Mount of Olives, where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the city, before walking through the Old City’s Armenian and Jewish Quarters to the Cardo and the Roman Road. You ewilla spend time at the Western
Wall, the Kotel and the Christian Quarter, before walking the Via Dolorosa to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Later in the day you continue to Bethlehem, where you will visit the Church of the Nativity and Manger Square. [B]
Sea of Galilee) on your way to Capernaum to see the ruins of the ancient synagogue where Jesus taught. The next stop is Tabgha. Located at the foot of the Golan Heights, it is the site of Jesus’ miracle of the loaves and fish. [B]
Day 3. Biblical Highlights of the North Heading along the coastal road, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Lower Galilee and Nazareth and visit the Churches of Annunciation and St Joseph, before continuing to Tiberias. You’ll pass Lake Kinneret (the
Day 4. Jerusalem Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. [B]
Tour Extension A Taste of Salalah | Alexandria & El Alamein
A TASTE OF SALALAH days:
4
41
OMA N
from
Arabian Sea
895pp
$
3 Salalah
Country visited: Oman This tour extension can be added to any of our Egypt & the Middle East small group tours.
Inclusions travel • All transfers and touring in a private air-conditioned vehicle
accommodation & meals • 3 nights at the Crowne Plaza Resort, Salalah (3-4 star) or similar • 3 breakfasts
Salalah Robert Lovett
Day 1. Salalah Welcome to Salalah, which lies on the Arabian Sea in southern Oman. In ancient times, Salalah was the world’s only source of frankincense and today you can still see frankincense trees growing. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or start exploring your beautiful surroundings. Day 2. Salalah Today you will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Salalah, beginning with a visit to a local
fishing village. You will then travel to the site of the ruined ancient city of Samharam. This well-fortified ancient city is thought to date back to 3,000BC. Later, you visit the ancient capital of Dhofar and see the historical site of Bin Ali’s Tomb with its stunning twin-domed structure. In the afternoon, continue to Mughsayl Beach, well known for its impressive blowholes - a natural wonder where the sea bursts up dramatically at regular intervals during high tide. [B]
intriguing “garden city” of the south at your leisure. [B]
S e aLocal Omani Robert Lovett
ALEXANDRIA & EL ALAMEIN days:
3
Day 1. Cairo - Alexandria This morning you depart Cairo for Wadi El Natroun, home to some of the earliest Christian monasteries, dating from the 4th to the 7th century AD. We then continue on to the beautiful city of Alexandria, otherwise known as the “Pearl of the Mediterranean”, and founded by Alexander the Great in 331BC. [L] Day 2. Alexandria In Alexandria, your tour will
Day 3. Alexandria - El Alamein - Cairo Your journey today takes you
Alexandria El Alamein
2
Wadi El Natroun
825pp
$
This tour extension can be added to any of our Egypt & the Middle East small group tours.
Cairo
EGYPT
Inclusions travel • Return transportation Valley of from Cairo in private airthe Kings conditioned vehicles
Rainbow over the Citadel of Qaitbay, Alexandria Ron Cullen
include the National Museum, the Catacombs and Pompey’s Pillar, the tallest monument in Alexandria. After lunch you visit the New Bibliotheca; the original building was a centre of learning for more than 600 years, before it burnt to the ground in the 3rd century. Today it’s much more than just a library, it is also a museum and a planetarium. Our last stop is the Citadel of Qaitbay. [B,L]
Prices are per person based on twin-share with a minimum of 2 people. Seasonal surcharges apply. Other star-rated hotels are also available. Please contact our office for details.
from
Country visited: Egypt
Itinerary
• English-speaking local guides
Day 4. Salalah Today you bid farewell to this tropical paradise. [B]
Day 3. Salalah Enjoy a full M dayeto d explore i t e r rthis anean
L i b y a
tour guides
Nil e
Itinerary
through the dunes along the Mediterranean coast towards El Alamein, well known for its serenity, fascinating scenery and mild climate. El Alamein is historically recognised as the site of one of the most decisive battles of the Second World War. You will visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery where more than 7,000 Allied war victims are buried, and the El Alamein Military Museum with its unique war paintings. You return to Cairo later in the day. [B]
Luxor (2 Nile accommodation & meals Edfu Cruise • 2 nights at the Le Metropole Kom O (4) Paradise Inn, Alexandria (4star) or similar Aswan • 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches
tour guides • English-speaking local guides
Abu Simbel
SUDAN
Prices are per person based on twin-share with a minimum of ile N 2 people. Seasonal surcharges apply. Other star-rated hotels are also available. Please contact our office for details.
Lake Na
42
Small Print
SMALL PRINT Bunnik Travel Pty Ltd - Trading As Bunnik Tours. ACN 077 203 466 • ABN 38 077 203 466 • ATAS accreditation #A10484 • 45 Flinders Street, Adelaide SA 5000 Australia. These Booking Conditions constitute the entire agreement between the parties as to their subject matter, and supercede all prior agreements and understandings between the parties. By making a booking and paying your deposit you accept the following booking terms and conditions. 1. PAYMENT Please note that all tours are subject to availability and all prices are subject to change without notice until your holiday has been paid in full. 1.1. Deposit A non-refundable deposit per person to secure your Bunnik Tour required (together with a completed booking form) within 7 days of reservation is as follows: • All Middle East tours except Egypt & Turkey and Cairo to Zanzibar ................................................. $500 pp • Egypt & Turkey ...................................................... $750 pp • Cairo to Zanzibar ............................................... $1,000 pp 1.2. Final Balance Payment Final payment is due 60 days prior to departure. Please note that tour costings are based on using special airfares which require early payment see below Payment Schedule. Separate deposit payments may be required for pre- and post-tour extensions. We may cancel your booking if either the deposit payment or the final payment is not paid by the relevant due date. In the event of cancellation, the cancellation conditions set out below will apply. All prices are quoted in Australian dollars and must be paid in Australian dollars. 1.3. Payment Schedule About 2-4 weeks after your booking has been confirmed we’ll need to request a progress payment in order to cover airfares, taxes and fuel surcharges. The progress payments are as follows: • All Middle East tours except Egypt & Turkey and Cairo to Zanzibar .............................................. $2,500 pp • Egypt & Turkey .................................................. $2,750 pp • Cairo to Zanzibar .............................................. $3,000 pp This payment allows us to issue your flight tickets and ensures you don’t get hit with airline increases on fuel surcharges and taxes. 2. BOOKINGS 2.1. Late Bookings Higher deposit payments are required for late bookings - please refer to your consultant at the time of booking. A guarantee of full payment is required at the time of booking for all bookings received within 4 weeks of departure. 2.2. Bookings Sold on a Share Basis Bookings may be accepted where requested on a share room basis on the condition that the person/s requesting the share reservation agree that although every effort will be made to comply with requests regarding age, non-smoking etc... this is not always possible and we accept no responsibility for any incompatibility between persons sharing twin/triple rooms. No guarantee is given that a share room will be found. If a share room is not available at the time of final payment, either the single room alternative or the cancellation conditions set out below will apply at your option. 3. SINGLE ROOMS If by choice or circumstance a single room is required, then a single room surcharge will apply. Requested and booked single rooms at the increased cost are confirmed in good faith on the basis of the information available at the time. If by some chance whilst on tour, the single room is not available, a refund will be made for any night that the paid single room was not available. 4. FLUID PRICING Bunnik Travel operates on the basis of fluid pricing.
This is the practice within the travel industry where pricing changes due to various factors including, but not limited to, changing airfares, market conditions and spot specials. We therefore reserve the right to change our prices without notice. This can mean that different passengers on the same tour may have been charged different prices. Bunnik Tours will not enter into any correspondence regarding any such variation in pricing. Our current pricing can be found on our website. 5. AIRLINE SCHEDULE CHANGES Bunnik Tours is not responsible for any schedule changes imposed by airlines. Whilst we will do our best to reschedule your touring and accommodation, Bunnik Tours is not responsible for any additional costs nor services missed as a result of an airline-imposed schedule change. 6. TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATION Bunnik Travel is not itself a carrier or hotelier nor do we own aircraft, hotels or coaches. The flights, coach journeys, and other travel and hotel accommodation comprised in your holiday are provided by reputable carriers and hoteliers on their own conditions. It is important to note therefore that all bookings are subject to the terms and conditions and limitations imposed by the individual airlines, coach operators, hoteliers and other service providers (including but not limited to shipping, rail, car hire, and restaurant service providers) who provide services in relation to your tour. Some of these terms and conditions may permit the service provider to cancel, delay, divert or substitute services at their discretion, and may limit or exclude liability in respect of death, personal injury, delay and loss or damage to baggage. It is your responsibility to be aware of and comply with the terms and conditions of each service provider. 7. RISK & LIABILITY Every effort is made to ensure that your holiday arrangements are satisfactory and we accept liability for, but only to the extent of, any loss or damage sustained by you as a direct result of our negligence. In any event, our aggregate liability to you is limited to the amount you have paid to us for the relevant tour. You acknowledge and agree that there are inherent risks involved in participating in the tour, including without limitation possible contact with native fauna, local residents, unforeseen events and travel in remote locations. By making a booking, you agree to accept all risks associated with the tour. We exclude, and you unconditionally release us from, all liability, including without limitation in contract and in tort, for any cause or action, including any injury, damage, loss, cost, delay, additional expense or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly as a result of the inherent risks associated with the tour, or any force majeure events or other events which are beyond our control, including but not limited to war, civil disobedience, terrorism, insurrection, accident, explosion, sickness, fire, floods, severe weather, acts of God, acts of Government, alteration or cancellation of scheduled air services, accidents to or failure of machinery or equipment or industrial action. If we or our service providers are affected in any way by a force majeure event, we may in our discretion vary or cancel any itinerary or arrangement in relation to the tour as we consider necessary, without incurring any liability to you. Each service provider is responsible for the part of the tour it conducts. Service providers are not our agents or employees and are not under our direct control. We therefore do not warrant the performance of any service provider. We do not accept, and you release us from, all liability for any injury, loss, damage, costs or expenses, including without limitation any property damage or personal injury, that you may suffer which arises out of any act or omission of a service provider or operator who provides services in connection with
your tour. Any claim that you may have in relation to a service provider should be raised directly with that service provider. You are responsible for any injury, loss, damage, costs or expenses arising through your own fault. You agree to indemnify us against all actions, proceedings, claims, demands, expenses and costs (including legal costs on a full indemnity basis and whether incurred by or awarded against us) as a result of, or arising in relation to, whether directly or indirectly, your participation in the tour or any act or omission by you in relation to the tour. 8. EXCLUSION FROM TOUR You may be excluded from the tour at our discretion if you fail to comply with our reasonable instructions while on tour, if you interfere with other clients’ enjoyment of the tour, if you jeopardise the safety of other clients, if you engage in illegal or undesirable behaviour, or if you otherwise become a hazard to yourself or other clients. You will not be entitled to a refund and we will not be responsible for any expenses that you may incur if you are excluded from a tour for any of these reasons. 9. CHANGES IN PRICE AND MINIMUM NUMBERS Please note that all tours are subject to availability and all prices are subject to change without notice until your holiday has been paid in full. We reserve the right to change the tour components, the departure date, or any other aspect of the tour at our discretion until the tour has been paid for in full. All tours are based on a minimum number of participants. If this minimum number is not reached we reserve the right to cancel or re-cost this tour as appropriate. If we re-cost the tour and you decide not to proceed, or, if we cancel the tour, your deposit is refundable in full. In all other circumstances your deposit is non-refundable. 10. HEALTH & FITNESS A minimum level of fitness is required to be able to participate on a Bunnik Tour. As a minimum you will need to be able to walk 2km on uneven surfaces, carry your own luggage and walk up a few flights of stairs with ease. All passengers aged 70 years and over must provide a “fitness to travel” letter from their doctor at the time of booking. You must inform us at the time of booking of any medical condition that you have which may affect your ability to participate in the tour. We may decide at our absolute discretion not to include you in a tour or in any activity if we consider that you are unable to safely participate in that tour or activity as a result of a medical condition or otherwise, or if we consider that your participation may place the safety of other clients at risk. We exclude all liability for any illness, injury or death sustained by you on tour as a result of any pre-existing medical condition. We will not be responsible for, and you agree to release us from, any liability arising out of any medical condition, illness or injury that you may suffer during the tour or as a result of the tour. You should consult your doctor or travel medical specialists in your home state before travel regarding any innoculations, medications and other health precautions that should be taken in relation to travel within the regions comprising your tour. 11. TRAVEL INSURANCE Travel insurance is not included in any of the prices in this brochure. It is a condition of travelling with Bunnik Tours that you have comprehensive travel insurance to cover you for the full duration of your journey for costs associated with illness, injury, death, loss of or damage to baggage and personal items, cancellation, loss of deposit, medical and hospitalisation expenses, repatriation and curtailment expenses due to illness, the need to return home unexpectedly, evacuation expenses and accidental death or disability. We will be able to advise you on request about travel insurance packages. However, you are solely responsible for obtaining the appropriate insurance cover as set out above. Bunnik Tours does not consider travel insurance offered by credit card companies as providing adequate cover. 12. AMENDMENT FEES Alterations to itineraries to suit individual
Small Print
requirements may be made in most instances. Requested amendments should be submitted to us in writing at time of booking. When alterations are requested after bookings are made, the $30 fee is applicable plus any additional costs and administrative expenses incurred in arranging the alteration. Alterations will be made at our discretion and may not always be possible. The alteration fee is due within 7 days of notification from us that the alteration will be carried out. When alterations are requested after balance payment has been made, a $250 per person fee is applicable plus any additional costs and administrative expenses incurred in arranging the alteration.
20. CANCELLATION Cancellation of reservation/s must be provided to us in writing and is subject to the following cancellation fees:
suppliers abroad. Cancellations of confirmed services must be notified through Bunnik Tours even if you have advised the local representative. Bunnik Tours does not authorise the employees of any overseas supplier to promise refunds to clients.
20.1. Bunnik Air & Land Packages 60 days or more before departure ..... loss of deposit
18. CONSUMER CLAIMS We endeavour to ensure that all your arrangements proceed smoothly. Occasionally problems can occur while you are away, in which case it is essential and most practical to try to resolve it locally with the provider of the service. If you are unhappy with your hotel room please inform the Duty Manager so the situation may be rectified on the spot. If you fail to take these steps any claim to compensation may be reduced or denied. If you have an unresolved complaint this should be put to us in writing detailing the efforts that were made with the local operator to resolve the issue. Please send this with supporting documentation within 30 days of the date of the service. No claim made after this period will be considered.
13. OTHER CONDITIONS Bunnik Tours reserves the right to cancel or withdraw bookings made for or on behalf of a client at any time at their discretion, in which event no liability with respect to the cancellation or withdrawal shall fall on Bunnik Tours, save that all the monies paid for the booking shall be refunded, less any utilised land or transport content. The arrangement of this holiday constitutes a complete package and as such, an itemisation of costs will be not be rendered. No refunds are payable on unused or partially utilised sections of the tour itinerary, where passengers amend, cancel, or otherwise vary arrangements after tour departure. Bunnik Tours does not authorise any overseas suppliers including hotel management to promise refunds on our behalf.
59 to 45 days before departure .................................. 25% 44 to 31 days before departure .................................. 50% Within 30 days of departure ..................................... 100% 20.2. Special Cancellation Special cancellation charges which may be higher than those listed above apply to cruising, rail tours, specialty accommodation and special event tours. These additional charges are set by our suppliers and vary per supplier. Please check with your consultant at the time of booking. Please note that tour costings are based on special airfares. Depending on the airlines these incur cancellation charges once the tickets have been issued. These charges are in addition to the cancellation charges set out above and in some cases can be as high as 100% once the ticket has been issued. Airlines are responsible for the timing of refunds of air tickets.
19. GENERAL These Booking Conditions are governed by the laws applicable in the State of South Australia, and the parties agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of South Australia. If part or all of any provision of these Booking Conditions is illegal or unenforceable, it will be severed from these Booking Conditions and will not affect the continued operation of the remaining provisions of these Booking Conditions. We may vary these Booking Conditions from time to time by notifying you in writing. Recent legislation in various states in Australia has highlighted the issue of Age Discrimination. In terms of style and content all of Bunnik Tours’ worldwide tours are specifically designed for people aged between 30 and 65 years. This fact should be recognised when you book one of our tours.
14. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND TAXES It is your responsibility to ensure that all passports, visas, travel permits, health certificates and other documentation required for the tour are obtained and are in order. You must also pay all required taxes, including Australian departure tax and ticket levies, which are payable in relation to the tour. You are responsible for any additional costs incurred by either us or you as a result of any failure to comply with these requirements. 15. CONSENT TO CONDITIONS By making any booking, you agree to comply with these Booking Conditions and warrant that you have obtained agreement to these Booking Conditions from all other clients for whom the booking is made. You are responsible for the total price of all bookings that you make.
43
21. IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON NILE CRUISE
The luxury Nile cruises (5-star Egyptian standard) featured on all itineraries to Egypt operate between the cities of Luxor and Aswan. These cities lie only 240km apart which means this distance could easily be covered in only 1 or 2 days without stops. However, our extended journey times allow us to spend more time sightseeing along the way stopping at amazing sites including the Luxor and Karnak Temples, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Valley of the Kings or Aswan. Additionally, each cruise itinerary will have an element of day-time cruising allowing you to relax and see life along the river.
MAP LEGEND Tour starts Tour ends Tour starts and ends in the same city Visited destinations Total number of nights (i.e. 2 nights)
16. BROCHURES We make no warranty about the accuracy of the tour information contained in Bunnik Tours publicity materials, and exclude all liability for any errors or omissions in those materials. All information should be checked prior to booking. 17. WHEN YOU GET THERE Local Representatives: Your documentation states the name and telephone number of our local representatives for any assistance with difficulties or changes. If you need to alter your arrangements once overseas or to add services to your booking you may do this through our local representative. Any additional costs incurred must be paid directly to the supplier of the service and may not be charged back to Bunnik Tours. We cannot be held responsible for any subsequent complaint with arrangements booked directly with
2
Flight route Land route Rail route Water route Rail transportation Water transportation
ABBREVIATION [B,L,D] Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Egypt & the Middle East’s Weather Guide Cairo
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Muscat
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Ave Max C
18
21
24
28
33
35
36
35
32
30
26
20
Ave Max C
25
25
28
32
37
38
36
33
34
34
30
20
Ave Min C
8
9
11
14
17
20
21
22
20
18
14
10
Ave Min C
19
19
22
26
30
31
31
29
28
27
23
20
Rainy Days
1
1
0.8 0.4 0.2
0
0
0
0
0.3 0.8
1
Rainy Days
5
2
3
1
0
0
1
1
0
0
1
2
Amman
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Haifa
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Ave Max C
12
14
17
23
28
31
32
32
31
27
20
14
Ave Max C
18
19
22
25
28
29
31
32
31
29
26
20
Ave Min C
4
4
6
10
14
17
19
19
17
14
9
5
Ave Min C
9
10
12
14
18
22
24
24
23
20
16
12
Rainy Days
11
11
8
4
2
0
0
0
0
2
5
8
Rainy Days
13
11
7
4
1
0
0
0
0
2
7
11
2016/17 Bunnik Tours Small Group Touring Program! Contact us or your travel agent to get a free copy of another exciting Bunnik Tours brochure!
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Bunnik Tours 45 Flinders St, Adelaide SA 5000 GPO Box 2667, Adelaide 5001 P: 08 8359 2295 F: 08 8359 2305
Your Travel Agent:
Bunnik Travel Pty Ltd • ATAS accreditation #A10484
Customer Sales & Enquiries Phone:
1800 286 645 Email:
[email protected]
Agent Sales & Enquiries Phone:
1300 125 007
Email:
[email protected]
www.bunniktours.com.au All prices shown are per person based on twin share. Single rooms are available at a supplement, check our website for details. Prices are correct at time of printing but are subject to change. Note air supplement may apply depending on airline availability and departure cities. Bunnik Travel Pty Ltd - trading as Bunnik Tours • ATAS accreditation #A10484 • CATO Registered Operator No. TO1078.
Registered Operator No. TO1078