Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Amman

Welcome to Jordan. On arrival at Queen Alia International Airport, you will be met by our local representative and assisted through the arrival formalities, including fast-track assistance and your complimentary Jordanian visa for qualifying tour members.

You will then be transferred to your Amman hotel, where you can settle in and relax after your journey. This evening, join your fellow travellers for our included Welcome Dinner—a lovely opportunity to meet the group and look forward to the experiences ahead.

Overnight: Amman
Meals: D

Day 2 – Jerash and Ajloun

After breakfast, travel north to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Middle East. Enjoy a guided walk through its impressive colonnaded streets and discover ancient theatres, temples, plazas and early churches that reveal the city’s remarkable past.

Continue to Ajloun Castle, an imposing 12th-century fortress built by one of Saladin’s generals. From its hilltop setting, enjoy far-reaching views across the surrounding countryside and towards the Jordan Valley before returning to Amman.

Overnight: Amman
Meals: B

Day 3 – Amman, Mount Nebo and Madaba to Petra

This morning, explore some of Amman’s most important historical sites. Visit the hilltop Citadel, including the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace and the Archaeological Museum. Continue to the impressive Roman Theatre before enjoying a glimpse of everyday life in the lively downtown markets.

Leaving Amman, travel to Mount Nebo, traditionally believed to be where Moses first saw the Promised Land. Continue to Madaba and visit St George’s Church, home to its celebrated sixth-century mosaic map of the Holy Land. Later, journey south to Petra and settle into your hotel.

Overnight: Petra
Meals: B

Day 4 – Petra and Wadi Rum

Today brings one of the great highlights of the tour: a full-day visit to magnificent Petra. Walk through the narrow Siq, with its towering rose-coloured walls, before the famous Treasury comes dramatically into view. Continue through the ancient city to discover its rock-cut tombs, temples and theatre.

Please note that exploring Petra involves a considerable amount of walking over uneven ground. Comfortable, supportive footwear is recommended, and horse-drawn carriages or other local transport may sometimes be available at an additional cost.

Later, travel into the spectacular desert landscape of Wadi Rum. Enjoy a two-hour 4WD safari across its valleys and sandstone formations, followed by sunset and a traditional Bedouin zarb dinner beneath the desert sky.

Overnight: Wadi Rum desert camp
Meals: B, D
Optional: Lunch

Day 5 – Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea

Leave the desert behind and travel to the shores of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. The remainder of the day is free to relax at your resort and enjoy the extraordinary experience of floating effortlessly in its mineral-rich waters. You may also wish to try the natural mineral mud, renowned for its therapeutic qualities.

Overnight: Dead Sea
Meals: B
Optional: Lunch and dinner

Day 6 – Dead Sea to Cairo

Transfer to Queen Alia International Airport for your flight from Amman to Cairo. On arrival in Egypt, you will be welcomed by our local representative and transferred to your hotel. Take time to settle in and prepare for the Egyptian chapter of your journey.

Overnight: Cairo
Meals: B
Optional: Pyramids Sound and Light Show

Day 7 – Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and Grand Egyptian Museum

Today, stand before one of the world’s most extraordinary ancient landmarks: the Pyramids of Giza. Marvel at the Great Pyramid of Khufu and learn about the ingenuity and mysteries surrounding these remarkable monuments. Subject to local conditions, you may choose to enter the Great Pyramid or enjoy a camel ride for panoramic views across the plateau.

Continue to the enigmatic Great Sphinx, carved from limestone and standing guard over the Giza Plateau. Later, visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, an impressive modern museum housing an exceptional collection of ancient Egyptian treasures, including remarkable objects associated with King Tutankhamun.

Overnight: Cairo
Meals: B

Day 8 – Cairo to Aswan

Fly south to Aswan, a relaxed and picturesque city beside the Nile. Visit beautiful Philae Temple, dedicated principally to the goddess Isis and carefully relocated to Agilkia Island following the construction of the Aswan High Dam. You will also visit the High Dam and learn how this enormous engineering project transformed modern Egypt.

Overnight: Aswan
Meals: B

Day 9 – Abu Simbel and Nile Cruise Embarkation

An early start takes you across the desert to Abu Simbel, one of Egypt’s most awe-inspiring archaeological sites. Admire the colossal temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari, which were painstakingly relocated to higher ground to protect them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.

Return to Aswan and board your comfortable Nile cruise vessel. Settle into your cabin and enjoy the pleasure of unpacking just once as your journey along this legendary river begins.

Overnight: Nile cruise
Meals: B, D

Day 10 – Kom Ombo and Edfu

Relax on board as you sail to Kom Ombo. Here, visit the unusual riverside temple dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder, the falcon-headed god. Its symmetrical design, fascinating carvings and riverside position make it especially memorable.

Return to the ship and continue sailing towards Edfu, enjoying the timeless scenery and everyday life along the banks of the Nile.

Overnight: Nile cruise
Meals: B, L, D

Day 11 – West Bank of Luxor

Explore Luxor’s remarkable West Bank, beginning with the Valley of the Kings, where the pharaohs of the New Kingdom were laid to rest in elaborately decorated tombs. Entry to Tutankhamun’s tomb may be available for an additional charge.

Continue to the striking terraced Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and stop to admire the towering Colossi of Memnon. Return to your cruise vessel for your final night on board in Luxor.

Overnight: Nile cruise in Luxor
Meals: B, L, D

Day 12 – Karnak and Luxor Temples to Cairo

Early risers may choose an optional hot-air balloon flight over Luxor, offering wonderful views of the Nile, fields and ancient monuments below, subject to weather and local operating conditions.

After breakfast, visit the immense Karnak Temple complex, with its grand avenues, monumental gateways and magnificent Great Hypostyle Hall. Continue to elegant Luxor Temple, set close to the banks of the Nile. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Cairo.

This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for an included Farewell Dinner. It is a wonderful opportunity to share favourite memories and celebrate your remarkable journey through Jordan and Egypt.

Overnight: Cairo
Meals: B, D

Day 13 – Depart Cairo

After breakfast, transfer to Cairo International Airport for your onward flight, taking with you wonderful memories of Jordan’s desert landscapes, Egypt’s ancient treasures and a relaxing journey along the Nile.

Meals: B

THIS ITINERARY IS THE PROPERTY OF THE TOUR COMPANY AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

Available dates: On application
Pricing: Available on application. Email info@travlink.net or within NZ call 0800 99 77 88 for more about this unique tour.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Blantyre, Malawi

Arrive in Blantyre, Malawi. On arrival, meet your local representative and transfer to your hotel. Blantyre is Malawi’s commercial capital and a lively introduction to the country, with colonial-era history, local culture and bustling markets. Settle in before enjoying dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation: Amaryllis Hotel Blantyre (or similar)
Meals: D

Day 2 – Blantyre to Majete Wildlife Reserve, Dr Livingstone’s footsteps

Discover some of Malawi’s history with a visit to the Livingstone Memorial Church. Scottish missionary and explorer David Livingstone worked to bring an end to the slave trade in East Africa. Continue to Mandala House, one of Blantyre’s historic landmarks, before travelling south-west to Majete Wildlife Reserve. Once depleted of wildlife, Majete has been restored as a conservation success and is now home to the Big Five: elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo. After lunch and time to settle into the lodge, head out on your first afternoon safari in search of wildlife.

Accommodation: Mkulumadzi Lodge (or similar)
Meals: B, L, D

Day 3 – Majete Wildlife Reserve safari

Sited at the meeting point of two rivers, beneath shady leadwood trees, Mkulumadzi Lodge offers a peaceful base in the African wilderness. Spend the day exploring Majete with shared safari activities and experienced guides. Each outing offers a chance to spot wildlife and enjoy the reserve’s varied landscapes.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 4 – Majete to Zomba Plateau, Mountains & historic charm

Travel north towards Zomba, Malawi’s former colonial capital, then climb to the cool, scenic Zomba Plateau. Known for its pine forests, waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints, the plateau offers a refreshing change of scenery. Stop for an independent lunch at Kefi Café before checking in. The afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Zomba is a pleasant town to explore at your own pace.

Accommodation: Kefi Hotel (or similar)
Meals: B, D

Day 5 – Zomba Plateau

Visit Zomba town and its local market this morning. Later, join a guided walk on the plateau, crossing a dam and heading towards the lowlands. Enjoy sweeping views along the way, with a waterfall providing a lovely stop near the end of the walk.

Meals: B, D

Day 6 – Liwonde National Park, Shire River

Descend from the plateau and travel to Liwonde National Park, one of Malawi’s leading wildlife destinations. The park lies beside the Shire River and is known for its elephants, hippos, crocodiles and abundant birdlife. After lunch at the lodge, enjoy an afternoon safari activity. Depending on local conditions, this may be a boat safari on the river or a game drive in the park.

Accommodation: Mvuu Camp (or similar)
Meals: B, L, D

Day 7 – Liwonde National Park, Wildlife and water

Enjoy a full day of safari experiences in Liwonde. Activities may include an early morning bush walk, an open-vehicle game drive or a gentle river safari. Keep watch for elephants, hippos, crocodiles and birdlife along the water’s edge.

Mvuu Camp overlooks a wildlife-rich stretch of the Shire River. The camp’s photographic hide offers a special chance to observe animals at close range. Dinner may sometimes be served beneath the stars in a traditional boma setting.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 8 – Liwonde National Park

Continue exploring Liwonde’s diverse habitats with your experienced guides. Learn about the park’s wildlife, ecosystems and conservation work as you search for animals in the bush. After a morning of game viewing, you may have time to relax by the pool.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 9 – Liwonde to Lake Malawi

Travel to the southern shores of Lake Malawi, often known as the “Lake of Stars”. Makokola Retreat is beautifully positioned beside one of the lake’s beaches, offering a peaceful place to rest after your safari. Spend the afternoon at leisure by the water or enjoy complimentary non-motorised activities.

Accommodation: The Makokola Retreat (or similar)
Meals: B, L, D

Day 10 – Lake Malawi

Lake Malawi is famous for its clear waters, colourful fish and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a day at your own pace: try snorkelling or sailing, unwind beside the pool, or simply take in the lakeside setting.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 11 – Lake Malawi, Dedza Pottery, Lilongwe

Travel north to Lilongwe, Malawi’s capital. En route, visit Dedza Pottery and enjoy an independent lunch at the restaurant. On arrival, check in to our accommodation. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax.

Accommodation: Latitude 13 Degrees (or similar)
Meals: B

Day 12 – South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

After an early breakfast, cross into Zambia via the Mwami border post and continue to South Luangwa National Park. Renowned for its wildlife, the park is especially well known for leopard sightings and walking safaris.

Arrive at our Safari Camp in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon safari activity. The camp has a relaxed atmosphere, so you can choose whether to join the available activities or enjoy some quiet time. In the evening, dine in the main area overlooking the river. Camp staff will explain how to move around safely if wildlife is nearby after dark.

Accommodation: Flatdogs Camp (or similar)
Meals: B, L, D

Day 13 – South Luangwa National Park

Spend the day exploring South Luangwa with opportunities to look for elephants, buffalo, giraffes, lions, leopards and many bird species.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 14 – South Luangwa National Park

Visit Mfuwe and browse its craft shops this morning. You may also learn about local community organisations, including a women’s group that transforms discarded snare wire into jewellery and a project specialising in textiles and screen printing. Later, return to the park for more wildlife viewing with experienced guides, exploring areas around the Luangwa River and its lagoons.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 15 – South Luangwa National Park

Enjoy a final full day on safari in this rewarding wilderness. Optional activities may include a walking safari or a night drive, offering a different perspective on the park and its nocturnal wildlife.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 16 – South Luangwa to Lusaka

Enjoy a morning game drive and some time at leisure before transferring to Mfuwe Airport for your scheduled flight to Lusaka. On arrival, transfer to your airport hotel. This evening join us for our included Farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Marriott Lusaka International Airport (or similar)
Meals: B, L, D

Day 17 – Lusaka

Transfer to Lusaka Airport for your onward flights.

Meals: B

THIS ITINERARY IS THE PROPERTY OF THE TOUR COMPANY AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

Available dates: On application
Pricing: Available on application. Email info@travlink.net or within NZ call 0800 99 77 88 for more about this unique tour.

More highlights …

• 9-day fully escorted South Island tour
• 8 nights’ quality hotel accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Special Welcome Dinner aboard the Christchurch Tram
• Farewell Dinner in Christchurch
• Premium-class journey aboard the TranzAlpine
• Admission to Riccarton House
• Visit to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
• Visit to Hokitika Gorge
• Admission to the West Coast Treetop Walk
• Franz Josef Glacier sightseeing
• Guided experience at Ōkārito
• Lake Mapourika scenic cruise
• Haast River enclosed jet boat safari
• Two nights in Queenstown
• TSS Earnslaw cruise across Lake Wakatipu
• Walter Peak High Country Farm Dining experience
• Scenic journey through Fiordland National Park
• Milford Sound cruise
• Te Anau Glowworm Caves excursion and lake cruise
• Comfortable touring by modern air-conditioned coach
• Sightseeing and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary
• Services of your experienced Tour Escort
• Baggage handling where available
• Plenty of wonderful South Island scenery and memorable experiences along the way

Itinerary

Day 1 – Christchurch & Welcome Dinner

Welcome to Christchurch and the beginning of our South Island winter adventure.

This evening, meet your Tour Host and fellow travellers over our special included Welcome Dinner aboard Christchurch’s beautifully restored vintage tram. Enjoy dinner as we travel through the central city – a wonderfully relaxed and sociable beginning to our journey.

Meals: Welcome Dinner

Day 2 – TranzAlpine Train & the West Coast

Today we board the famous TranzAlpine, regarded as one of the world’s great scenic train journeys. Settle into the comfort of the Premium carriage as we travel across the Canterbury Plains and climb into the magnificent Southern Alps. Pass through dramatic gorges and Arthur’s Pass before descending towards the lush rainforests of the West Coast. Simply sit back, relax and watch some of New Zealand’s finest scenery unfold outside your window.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 – Punakaiki, Hokitika & West Coast Wonders

A wonderful day exploring some of the West Coast’s most memorable natural attractions. At Punakaiki, stroll along the pathways overlooking the extraordinary Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, sculpted over thousands of years by the Tasman Sea.

We also visit beautiful Hokitika Gorge, famous for its vivid turquoise waters, before experiencing the West Coast Treetop Walk, where elevated walkways offer a different perspective of the surrounding native forest. For those wanting an extra adventure, there is the opportunity to take an optional scenic helicopter flight over the Southern Alps and remote glaciers.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 – Franz Josef, Ōkārito & Lake Mapourika

Today brings more magnificent West Coast scenery as we explore the area surrounding Franz Josef Glacier, where ancient ice, rainforest and mountains come together in dramatic fashion.

We continue to peaceful Ōkārito, a tiny historic settlement surrounded by native forest, wetlands and abundant birdlife. Later, enjoy a leisurely cruise on the dark, mirror-like waters of Lake Mapourika. On a clear winter’s day, the reflections of the surrounding mountains and rainforest can be quite spectacular.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 – Haast River Wilderness Adventure

Our journey continues south through some of the most pristine wilderness in New Zealand as we enter the Te Wāhipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area.

Board a comfortable enclosed jet boat for a scenic 10-kilometre journey along the Haast River. Surrounded by ancient rainforest and towering mountains, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience an area that remains beautifully untouched. The enclosed boat means we can enjoy the adventure while remaining warm and comfortable – particularly appreciated on a crisp South Island winter’s day. We then continue through magnificent alpine scenery towards Queenstown.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 – Queenstown, TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak

Today is yours to enjoy Queenstown at a leisurely pace. Browse the shops, enjoy one of the town’s many cafés, take a stroll along the lakefront or simply relax and admire the magnificent mountain views.

Later, we board the historic steamship TSS Earnslaw for a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Surrounded by beautiful alpine scenery, we enjoy an included dinner at Walter Peak before cruising back across the lake to Queenstown. It promises to be one of the most memorable evenings of our journey.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 – Magnificent Milford Sound

Today is undoubtedly one of the highlights of our tour as we journey into the heart of Fiordland National Park. Winter is a particularly beautiful time to experience this remarkable region, with snow-dusted mountains, cascading waterfalls and wonderfully atmospheric landscapes.

At Milford Sound, we board our cruise and travel beneath towering cliffs and waterfalls, with wonderful views towards iconic Mitre Peak. Keep watch for seals, dolphins and other wildlife as we discover one of New Zealand’s greatest natural treasures. We continue to Te Anau following our Milford Sound experience.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 – Te Anau & Glowworm Caves

This morning we enjoy another magical experience. Cruise across beautiful Lake Te Anau before entering the fascinating Te Anau Glowworm Caves. A local guide leads us through this remarkable underground world of rushing water, sculpted rock formations and tiny glowworms illuminating the darkness like thousands of stars.

After returning to Te Anau, the remainder of the day is free to enjoy this lovely lakeside town. Perhaps take a gentle stroll along the waterfront, browse the shops or simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 – Te Anau to Christchurch & Farewell Dinner

After breakfast, we farewell beautiful Fiordland and begin our scenic coach journey back to Christchurch. Sit back and enjoy the ever-changing South Island landscapes, with comfort stops along the way and time to appreciate the winter scenery.

On arrival in Christchurch, we check into our hotel for our final night. This evening, join your fellow travellers for our special included Farewell Dinner. It is the perfect opportunity to share stories, photographs and favourite moments from our journey together – and celebrate nine memorable days exploring some of the South Island’s most spectacular places.

Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

THIS ITINERARY IS THE PROPERTY OF THE TOUR COMPANY AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

Available dates: On application
Pricing: Available on application. Email info@travlink.net or within NZ call 0800 99 77 88 for more about this unique tour.