North Africa is home to some of the most impressive sites of the ancient world. The Phoenecians, Greeks and Romans all established significant trading bases on the Mediterranean coast, giving them access to the riches of Africa. The more recent culture is no less interesting and as we pass through the changing landscapes of these three countries, we have the opportunity to learn at close quarters about the peoples, land and culture that make each country unique.

Tunisia; Ancient Sites & Berber Villages
From the bustling capital of Tunis we visit the ancient seaport of Carthage before heading inland to explore the remarkable Roman cities of Dougga, Bulla Regia, with its underground villas and exquisite mosaics, and Sbeitla. We continue to Kairouan - Tunisia's holiest city - and spend a night in a Troglodyte cave at Matmata. Finally, we explore the curious hill-crest villages of Tataouine where the Berber tribes fortified their villages and stores against attackers..

Libya; Leptis Magna & Greek Cities
Crossing the border into Libya we pause at the impressive complex of Sabratha, founded by the Phoenicians as a trading port with Carthage. Next to Tripoli to visit the excellent museum housed in the great fortress that was once the HQ for Arabs, Ottomans and Italians. One of the highlights of our journey is a visit to Leptis Magna where we have plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere of this amazing ruined city, founded 3,000 years ago by the Phoenicians and conquered and embellished by the Romans. Then to the "Green Mountains" where we'll take our time to visit Ptolemais and the mosaics of Qasr Libya and from our base at Susa, wander among the fantastic temples of the Greek city at Cyrene, and her port Apollonia, that once traded in gold and wild animals.

Egypt, Land of the Pharoahs
A visit to the WWII cemeteries at Tobruk provides us with a stark reminder of Libya's more recent history, before we cross the border to Egypt. Continuing along the coast we visit the battlefield El Alamein and the poignant war cemeteries, where 11,000 men lie buried. We tour Alexandria before visiting the coptic churches of Wadi Natrun en route to the capital city, Cairo. We spend time in the excellent Egyptian Museum and at the pyramids of Giza, including the Sphinx with some free time to explore the city and its many facets before our tour ends.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Tunis (Tunisia). 2 In Tunis; visit Carthage. 3 Visit Bardo museum; drive to Le Kef via Dougga. 4 In Le Kef; visit Bulla Regia and optional walk. 5 Drive to Kairouan via Sbeitla. 6 Visit Great Mosque of Kairouan; drive to Sfax via El Djem. 7 Drive to Matmata; visit troglodyte dwellings. 8 Drive to Tataouine; explore villages. 9 Drive to Tripoli (Libya) via Sabratha. 10 In Tripoli; city tour and visit museum. 11 Drive to AlKhoms, visit Leptis Magna. 12 Morning to revisit Leptis Magna and/or visit Villa Silene (optional); drive to Sirt. 13 Drive to Benghazi. 14 Drive to Susa via Qasr Libya and Ptolemais. 15 In Susa; visit Cyrene and Apollonia. 16 Drive to Mersa Matruh (Egypt) via Tobruk cemeteries. 17 Drive via El Alamein to Alexandria. 18 In Alexandria; city tour. 19 Drive to Cairo via Wadi Natrun. 20 In Cairo; visit Pyramids and Egyptian Museum. 21 End Cairo.

Accommodation: 19nts hotel, 1nt Troglodyte cave hotel; 20 breakfasts & 1 dinner included.
Transport: Charter bus
Comment: An opportunity to explore the varying cultures and historic sites of these three very distinct north African countries. Be prepared for some long driving days.
Group: Approx. 16 to 20.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader, drivers, local escort in Libya and some local guides.
Trip Reference: NT