THE CARAVAN HOTEL

Jabal Al Weibdeh,

Al Ma’mun St

Amman

Phone: 962 6 5661195  Fax: 962 6 5661196

This hotel is 30 kms from the airport

Amman to Aleppo. Leaving Amman at 07.00am we overnight in Damascus before heading to Aleppo. At first sight Aleppo appears to have no other purpose than to fill a dip in the landscape. It competes with Damascus for being the longest continually inhabited city in the world and can boast a commensurate level of culture and history. The recorded history alone goes back to the early second millennium BC! Aleppo’s covered ‘souq’ (market) is the best in Syria and goods range from beautiful antique carpets to fresh cow’s heads.

Please see pre-departure information regarding Syrian entry requirements.

Damascus, Jerash and Amman. The next morning we drive for approximately 5 hours to the ancient city of Damascus where we stay at the local campsite for 2 nights. Damascus is generally considered to have just pipped Aleppo to the post as the world’s oldest constantly inhabited city (5,000 years). Three years after the death of Mohammed, Damascus fell to the Muslim Arab army, ending a thousand years of rule by western powers as diverse as Egypt, Greece and Rome. In 1516 Damascus fell under Turkish rule and in 1918 it was the turn of the French. It was only at the end of the Second World War that Damascus actually became the capital of an independent Syria. The oldest city in the world then, is a fairly new political entity! Constant upheaval has left the Syrians a little security conscious. At any one time in Syria you can see at least 100 pictures of the president.

We spend a free day in Damascus, which can be spent looking around the city, or an optional day trip to Beirut is available. This trip departs at 7 am and returns at midnight. Included in the cost are a Guide, the ruins at Balbeck (tallest columns in the world), visas, lunch and a tour of Beirut city. All transport to/from the Campsite is also included. Dinner is spent usually at the Hard Rock Café and is not included, as are their T-shirts, which are US$15. (Please note, security and safety will be taken into account before the trip to Lebanon is offered as an option. The region does occasionally become a little unsettled.)

From Damascus we drive to Amman via the impressive archaeological site of Jerash. Jerash is one of the impressive and best-preserved provincial Roman cities in the Middle East. The inhabitants were quite cultured and quite well off, resulting in lavish architectural designs principally in the ‘oriental baroque style’. Other interesting features include chariot tracks etched into the pavement and the famous moving columns (you can put your finger into one of the lower joints and actually feel them swaying – not recommended for violinists or during earthquakes).

Amman is the capital of Jordan – bustling, big and largely unplanned. Supposedly designed as a series of circles it is virtually impossible to find your way around from the maps or to recognise anything remotely resembling circularity. It is however, great fun being lost in Amman, which, all things considered, is fairly fortunate. Amman boasts all the healthy eating options of home – Big Macs, Pizza Hut, Subway and KFC. There is a good Safeway supermarket, which, rather surprisingly for a Muslim country, actually has bacon for sale and lots of other western goods. We stay at a comfortable hotel in the centre of town in twin rooms with en-suites.

Sinai, Dahab and Cairo. Leaving Aqaba we cross the Gulf of Aqaba on the Red Sea and enter Egypt at the port of Nuweiba this crossing is done by ferry and takes 4 hrs, on paper! In reality the trip on the water does take 4 hrs but leaving the port can also take a few hours, as does entering the port in Egypt. This ferry can also suffer delays during Ramadan and the Haj (the annual pilgrimage to Mecca).

We then head into the Sinai to visit Mt Sinai. Mt Sinai is where Moses reputedly saw the ‘burning bush’, which he considered to be a sign. Prompted by this he climbed the mountain returning at sunrise with the Ten Commandments. We follow in his footsteps – returning at sunrise but probably without any commandments. However, the dawn views compensate a little for the lack of religious revelation.

After visiting Mt Sinai we head to the small coastal resort of Dahab. The primary reason for this visit is to enable people an opportunity to dive at the Red Sea. For those not wishing to dive there is a lot to do around the town whether it’s lying on a beach or visiting a local market. The diving in Dahab is excellent for both experienced divers and novices alike. If you already have your PADI certificate, diving costs USD $35 and you must bring your certificate (PADI) and a current diving log. If you have forgotten your diving log, then you will have to take a ‘check up dive’ to make sure that you can dive. This costs USD $25. For non-certificate holders there is the option of an introductory beginner’s dive for USD $45.

We continue across the Sinai Peninsula the following day as we drive to Cairo via the Suez Canal. It is no longer possible to see the actual canal for security purposes, but we still see ships as if they are cruising through the desert and cross the canal by a short tunnel.

Cairo is the largest city in Africa with between 12 and 18 million inhabitants – nobody is sure, but there are quite a few. Driving is an experience, as it appears that Egyptian vehicle inspectors are fairly lenient and that the only roadworthy requirement on the cars is a workable horn, which must be continuously tested. The city itself is fascinating. Apart from the rich history, there are good markets, restaurants, banks and even a metro (underground railway). In typical Egyptian style, there are no maps of the underground so you will have to ask the tourist police.

The tour ends on arrival in Cairo at approx. 18.00pm. NO accommodation included on Day 14

Please be aware that arrival times and the itinerary may change due to unforeseen delays or events such as festivals and public holidays. However, we shall endeavour to ensure all sites are visited and that your tour runs as smoothly as possible.

Be flexible, you will enjoy your tour much more. Kumuka makes a point of visiting the indigenous populations of each country you visit, in order to give a true reflection of the country; please treat the local people and their customs with respect.

This itinerary will be followed as closely as possible. However there may be times when it is necessary to change the route according to local conditions. There will be times travelling long hours as there will be days where we have to cover great distances. Weather patterns can change dramatically - high altitudes tend to be a lot cooler.

You are free not to participate in any of the included excursions. However, please note that there will be no refund for any excursions not taken.

Please note that this itinerary can be run in reverse direction for logistical reasons, or may change at short notice at the discretion of your crew.

Lastly, your tour leader is always conscious of everybody's views, but sometimes he/she will have to make an unpopular decision and your understanding will be appreciated in these circumstances.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all tours. All clients MUST be insured to cover personal accident, medical expenses, cancellation, curtailment and repatriation. If you have not already arranged your insurance Kumuka can do this for you.Please call us on the Kumuka freephone number 0800 068 8855 (UK only), or on 1300 667 277 in Australia for further information. No client will be allowed on tours without suitable insurance. At the start of your tour you will be asked to present your original policy document and complete an insurance information form. We recommend that you have a photocopy of this document, which you keep separate from the original. It is very important that your insurance policy is relevant to the Kumuka style of travel. Also, be aware that many of the optional activities such as bungy jumping or water rafting may not be covered on your policy. If you plan on doing any of these activities please purchase additional insurance.

It is important that you obtain the appropriate visas before you embark on your Middle East trip. Country entry regulations change daily, www.columbusguides.com/region/atoz.asp provides up-to-date visa information. Please consult your Travel Agent or relevant embassy for all details such as opening hours or costs. Visas cannot be obtained once you have started your tour, and during the peak summer months it can take longer than normal to get visas, please allow extra time to do this.

You must obtain a visa (if needed) for the first country you fly into in the Middle East. All other visas where we are taking you across the border in the truck can be obtained en-route. PLEASE NOTE THAT WE CAN ONLY OBTAIN THESE VISAS ENROUTE IF YOU HAVE PROVIDED US WITH THE FOLLOWING DETAILS:

* Name and Family Name

* Nationality

* Place and Date of Birth

* Profession

* Passport Number

* Place and Date of Issue

* Passport expiry date

* Name of Father and Mother

Syria - All nationalities need a visa. These can be pre-booked and collected as a group visa while on tour so it is not necessary to obtain a visa before joining the tour. For Syria the visa cost is US$25 and must be paid in US$ cash.

VISAS FOR SYRIA WILL BE ARRANGED ON YOUR BEHALF

Jordan - If you are joining the tour in Amman it is advisable to get your visa before departure. If you enter Jordan as part of the tour group then a group visa will be organised by the tour leader. The cost per person for this is US$20 and must be paid in US$ cash.

Egypt - Most nationalities require a visa for Egypt. This visa is obtainable either on entry or from the consulate before you begin your tour. The cost is US$20 for single entry at money exchange outlets on arrival in Cairo airport.

Please note, at the moment South African passport holders cannot get an Egyptian visa at the point of entry and must get one in advance.

For detailed climate information see www.kumuka.com.

Travel Tip: Always bring a lightweight, waterproof jacket and/or an umbrella even during the height of summer - this should prepare you for anything!

You might like to read up on the destinations that you are about to visit as these cities all have interesting sites and histories. We recommend a variety of guidebooks such as Lonely Planet, The Rough Guide and Insight Guides. All these publications have good general information as well as more specific country information that will help orientate you in the countries you visit.

Be aware that revealing bare flesh can cause offence. Covering shoulders, arms and legs can save you a lot of hassle. This is true for men as well as women. Similarly we advise against tight or revealing clothing. Generally on beaches you can wear what you like. Be sure to exercise a conservative approach in smaller more remote areas and in large cities.

Many Middle Eastern countries are predominantly Muslim influenced. For this reason attitudes towards women can vary greatly from very liberal on the Mediterranean coast to very conservative in small towns and areas of Syria and Jordan. If you are prepared to tune yourself in to the social code of the area your trip should run relatively hassle free.

Please use your discretion and be sensitive to cultural differences in the countries that you visit, in particular visits to religious buildings and when taking photographs. Your Tour Leader will advise you of any specific customs to observe.

We suggest that you take into account the time of year you will be travelling, and pack accordingly to the season. Quick drying clothes are recommended, and at many hotels and campsites there are laundry facilities. Your tour leader will advise where this is possible.

Generally conditions will be warm and dry however do account for long sleeves and long trousers in religious or more remote areas. Also remember that if you are visiting the Western desert, Sinai desert or during the winter months, evenings can get a very chilly so don’t forget to pack a jumper or two.

Personal Effects:
Camera & film, Spare passport photos, Water bottle, Money belt, Torch, Sewing kit, Sunhat/ Sunglasses, Music cassettes/CDs, Books, Wet Ones, Soap to wash clothes, Writing materials, Swiss Army knife, Calculator, Personal toiletries, including tampons, Contraceptives, Insect Repellent, Sunscreen

NOTE: If you wear glasses, it is advisable to bring a spare pair since opticians are uncommon. If you wear contact lenses you may find that climatic changes and dust can create visual irritation, therefore, it is advisable to bring a pair of glasses.

All types of camera film are readily available in the Middle East however it is often cheaper to purchase it in your country of origin or through duty free.

As a guideline, most people use approximately one to two rolls of 36 per week. Fast film (200-400 ASA) may be useful at times and black & white film is nice to use for portraits of local people. A zoom lens is also useful.

Please remember, we are guests in the countries through which we travel and we may sometimes inadvertently cause offence by taking photographs without first asking permission.It is absolutely forbidden by law to take photos at any borders, as they are all active military installations. Most Middle Eastern countries have very strict rules about taking photos of army, police or any official personnel; restrictions apply at borders and in any government buildings. Please exercise care in this regard as the penalty may be to have your film and/or camera confiscated.

CAMPING - Overland Expeditions

Camping is always great fun and our vehicles are loaded with all the first class equipment needed.

Campsites vary from established sites with all facilities to the occasional roadside stop or rooftop or free camp. We use large two person tents and if you come alone, we’ll team you up with another group member.

Camping during the heat of the summer months, especially in Egypt, may involve sleeping on big mats under the stars, as the evening temperatures are still too hot to be in tents. You will be given the choice however to erect a tent if you so wish.

Please Note: You will need to provide your own sleeping bag.  On all our Middle East overland tours simple rubber mattresses are provided.  

HOTELS - Overland Expeditions

We choose our hotels, guesthouses and hostels for their location, comfort, security and hygiene standards. All are located near the city centre usually within easy walking distance of services and facilities.

Most rooms are on a twin, double or triple share basis with private bathrooms, however, occasionally, bathrooms may be shared or larger apartments used by several members of the group. Most rooms do not have air conditioning

Accommodation is not included in the city of departure or arrival unless within the specified tour dates.

The more you put into your tour the greater the experience you will get from your trip. It is all about participation and mucking in with your fellow passengers!

Participation is a key factor on a tour of this nature and everyone is expected to pull their weight and get involved with the daily duties (e.g. cooking, cleaning and food shopping). The most successful trips are those where people become involved.

This is not only the best way to get to know your fellow passengers; while cooking dinner or flapping dry the dishes, but also the local people while you are putting your bartering skills to the test at the local markets!

Please note: The longer Kumuka tours are combinations of shorter tours. Passengers on our longer tours will pickup and drop off passengers en-route so new faces and personalities will join the tours.

Tipping is expected almost everywhere. For many tipping is a means of supplementing their wage and is a normal part of payment for goods and services. Be sure to keep small denomination notes or coins on you to avoid embarrassment. Sales and service taxes are imposed in some restaurants and bars.

In Egypt the tour leader will operate a tip kitty of US$12-15 per person, payable in local currency at your pre departure meeting. We ask that a member of the group also monitor the kitty.

Bargaining is also expected and in all souq’s and bazaars prices are inflated to accommodate such a practice. Rule of thumb is to cut the offer in half and work upwards. This can sometimes be hard work but so not let yourself be intimidated by stallholders, you can always say no and walk away.

Kumuka endeavors to advertise a compliment of optional activities available locally during tours with selected ground handlers to make your tour more enjoyable. These ground handlers and activity partners are selected for their standards in quality, professional ability and reputation. Whereas, Kumuka has developed a travel insurance policy to cover all activities offered during your journey, Kumuka can not be held responsible for injuries or claims arising from adventurous activities by third party.

Below is a list of optional excursions available at your expense on your African tour. Please note that these are intended as a guide only and prices and availability cannot be guaranteed.

Your tour leader will be able to organise any optional excursions on your behalf. The list below is by no means comprehensive. There will be many other optional activities available. All activities are undertaken at passenger’s own risk.

Syria - Azem Palace $8 - International Museum $8 - Palmyra Funery Tombs $5 - Aleppo Citadel $6 - Jordan - Archaeological Museum $3 - Egypt - Diving at Dahab $45 - Snorkelling at Dahab $10 - Dahab Snorkel Equipment $12

Lebanon Day trip US$65.00/US$85.00/US$100.00 - Please note the Lebanon day trip is subject to a minimum number of 4, and consideration of safety and security. The cost of the trip will reduce depending on the number of people taking the option.

 NB *Please note that these prices are subject to change without notice and that these are meant as a guideline only on what optional excursions may be available to you whilst on tour. Kumuka are not responsible if any of these excursions are not made available to you on your specific tour.