Tick off the Seven New Wonders of the World on this 31-day round-the-world adventure. Visit Rome’s Colosseum, the Rose City of Petra, the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, Chichen Itza, Machu Picchu and Christ the Redeemer in Rio plus the Pyramids of Giza, the sole-surviving ancient wonder.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Whilst this itinerary does not include international or domestic flights, it has been designed around the best flight options between the various cities involved. We can certainly assist you with booking flights and as this is a private tour the itinerary
The Colosseum of Rome
On day 2, enjoy a tour of the highlights of Rome. Starting at the Piazza Venezia, the central hub of Rome, from here you'll walk to the famous Piazza Del Campidoglio designed by Michelangelo from where you will have a fantastic view of the Roman Forum. Later, continue past the Circus Maximus and the Aventino Hill. Admire the beautiful statue of Moses by Michelangelo located in the Church of St. Peter’s in Chains before you continue to your first wonder of the world on this tour, the symbol of the eternal city: The Colosseum. Built over 1,900 years ago, it is thought to be the largest amphitheatre ever made. You will explore this incredible engineering feat, learning about the history of why it was built and the gruesome sport that took place here many years ago.
Day 3 is free for you to explore more of the city independently.
Overnight: Rome | Breakfast x 2
Rome to Cairo
Today you'll receive a transfer to the airport to catch your flight to Cairo. The capital of Egypt is home to the only remaining survivor of the original Seven World Wonders and has a special place on our Wonders of the World tour. On arrival you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel for check in with the remainder of the day at leisure.
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
Pyramids of Giza
On day 5 enjoy a guided tour of the incredible Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza. The planets oldest tourist attractions, the Pyramids are constructed from over 2.5 million limestone blocks. Research suggests it took over 20 years to build the Pyramids and they are an amazing sight to behold. You’ll have the opportunity to enter inside one of the Pyramids, whilst an unbelievable experience, do remember the inside of the Pyramids is hot and humid and definitely not recommend for people who are claustrophobic.
This afternoon you continue to the Egyptian National Museum of Antiquities. Boasting an extensive collection of over 120,000 ancient Egyptian artefacts, there are numerous exhibits to be fascinated by. One of the highlights of the museum is the funerary treasures of King Tutankhamen, including his legendary solid gold death mask. Also during the visit you can choose to visit the Royal Mummy Room, where 9 royal mummies from the New Kingdom is displayed.
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
Free time in Cairo
Today is a free day to enjoy Cairo your own way. Consider relaxing by the hotel swimming pool, snapping up a few bargains at the Khan el Khalili bazaar or further sightseeing.
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
Cairo to Amman
Cairo - Amman - Petra. Today you depart Cairo and fly onward to Jordan. Arriving in Amman you’ll be met at the airport before being transferred south to the magical city of Petra. The drive time is around 3 hours and you’ll pass some stunning scenery on the way. After check in at the hotel the rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight: Petra | Breakfast
The Rose City of Petra
This morning you make your way to the ancient Nabatean Rose City of Petra – a UNESCO world heritage site. To access the hidden treasures of the Rose City you must walk down a narrow, deep siq, building suspense until the rocks finally part to reveal the famous facade of Al-Khazneh (the Treasury). From here you will explore the ancient city further, discovering tombs, temples, a roman colonnaded street and a remarkable amphitheatre. If you're feeling energetic ascend the hundreds of rock-cut steps to Ad-Deir. Better known as the Monastery, Ad-Deir has a similar facade to that of the Treasury, but is far bigger and the views from the nearby cliff-tops are incredible!
Overnight: Petra | Breakfast
Ancient Mosaics of Madaba
Petra - Shobak Castle - Madaba - Mt Nebo - Dead Sea. Departing Petra this morning you'll head for the Dead Sea. The journey will head through the Heisha mountains stopping first to tour the 12th century Shobak Crusader Castle. Continuing to Madaba you'll see the world’s largest collection of ancient mosaics before visiting St George’s church with a beautiful 6th century mosaic map of the Holy Land. Next stop is Mount Nebo, the place where Moses viewed the Promised Land, from here you’ll be able to see Jordan Valley, Dead Sea, Jericho and even Jerusalem on a clear day. You'll finish your day by descending to the Dead Sea, the shores of which are the lowest point of land on earth’s surface. This afternoon you’ll have the opportunity to take a dip in the unusually warm and incredibly buoyant mineral rich waters. The Dead Sea, renowned for its curative powers and therapeutic qualities, is the world's oldest spa!
Overnight: Dead Sea | Breakfast
Amman to Delhi
Today offers some free time to relax at the Dead Sea before this afternoon making your way to Amman Airport for your evening, overnight, flight to Delhi.
Overnight: Flight (not included) | Breakfast
Arrive Delhi
Arrive into Delhi this morning and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax at your hotel or explore Delhi.
Overnight: Delhi
Taj Mahal at Sunset
Delhi - Agra. This morning you'll head out of the hustle and bustle of Delhi as you make your way to Agra. You'll start your sightseeing at the Agra Fort, Behind its colossal walls are some of the finest Mughal buildings in India. Construction of the fort commenced during the reign of Emperor Akbar and additions continued to be made until the rule of his grandson Shah Jahan. During Akbar’s time, it was primarily a military fort though later the focus shifted and it partially became a palace. After touring this impressive fort you will make the journey back to Delhi.
This afternoon, continue to the awe inspiring Taj Mahal, where you'll will visit the most extravagant monument ever built for love, just as the sun is setting. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved second wife-Mumtaz Mahal, who died tragically during childbirth, the Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble, construction began in 1631, the year in which Mumtaz died, and was not completed until 1653. It’s estimated that up to 20,000 people worked on the construction of the Taj Mahal.
Overnight: Agra | Breakfast
Agra Fort
Agra - Delhi. Return to Delhi today before enjoying a guided tour of Old and New Delhi taking in Humayun's Tomb, Jama Masjid - India’s oldest and largest mosque and Raj Ghat - the site of Gandhi’s cremation in Old Delhi, and in New Delhi you'll visit Rajpath and India Gate.
Overnight: Delhi | Breakfast
Guided tour of Old and New Delhi
Today offers free time to further explore Delhi at your own pace. Late this afternoon transfer to the airport for your overnight flight to Beijing.
Overnight: Flight (not included) | Breakfast
Arrive Beijing
Arriving into Beijing today you’ll be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is for you to relax or perhaps explore Beijing independently.
Overnight: Beijing
Forbidden City
Not only is Beijing the capital but also the political, economic and cultural centre of China. With a fascinating history, Beijing was established in 1045BC and served as the capital of a number of dynasties spanning 800 years. Today enjoy a sightseeing tour, starting at Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square. To the south of the square you will find the Zhengyang Gate, built in 1419 during the Ming Dynasty. Towards the centre of the square you’ll find the Monument to the Peoples Heroes, this ten-story obelisk is dedicated to the martyrs of the revolutionary struggles during the 19th and 20th century. Next you'll visit the Forbidden City, a formidable palace complex that was once only opening to those on imperial business. Measuring 720,000sqm in size, it is dominated by vast gates, temples, halls and palatial buildings. Surrounded by a moat it is said that the Forbidden City is made up of 9,999 rooms.
This afternoon visit the Silk Alley, where you’ll have a chance to splash some cash in a retail haven that is a Beijing institution. Some bling jewellery for the lady and perhaps a genuine copy Rolex watch for the gent?
Overnight: Beijing | Breakfast
The Great Wall of China
Beijing - Great Wall of China - Beijing. Today you'll head out of Beijing to Badaling to visit the imposing Great Wall of China. The sometimes steep walk is made all the more breathtaking by the stunning views and the realisation that this 2,200 year-old wall isn’t just a common or garden wall, but a 6700 kilometre wall that at one time served to protect the new China from marauding invaders from the north. Today’s excursion then continues to the imperial Ming tombs, where some 13 emperors were interred in elaborate mausoleums, a couple of which can be seen.
Day 18 offers free time for you to explore Beijing your own way. Perhaps head to the hutongs, where the hire of a rickshaw will take you through Beijing’s old back lanes that are lined with courtyard homes and offer a fascinating snapshot of the city’s traditional domesticity.
Overnight: Beijing | Breakfast x 2
Beijing to Cancun
Today, transfer to the airport for your flight across the international date line, arriving into Cancun. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel close to the vibrant beach town of Playa Del Carmen.
Overnight: Playa del Carmen | Breakfast
Chichen Itza
Day 20 offers some free time to relax before you visit Chichen Itza on day 21. Chichen Itza is an immense archaeological site spanning an area of over 300 hectares. It is a very interesting and important site and represents two different periods in the Mayan history: one purely Mayan and the other one with Toltec influence, these can be seen in the different types of architecture and sculptures. In Chichen Itza you will visit the highlights including Kukulkan pyramid, the Castle, the Ballgame and the Tiger Temple.
Day 22 offers further free time; you may wish to take an optional tour to Tulum, another place of importance to the Mayan history or simply relax by the beach.
Overnight: Playa del Carmen | Breakfast x 3
Cancun to Lima
On day 23 transfer to the airport for your flight to the capital of Peru, Lima. Upon arrival you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel for your overnight stay.
Overnight: Lima | Breakfast
Lima to Cuzco
Today you return to the airport to catch your flight to Cuzco. Once you’ve been escorted to your hotel in Cuzco the rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight: Cusco | Breakfast
Incan fortress of Ollantaytambo
Cusco - Pisac - Ollantaytambo. Departing Cusco this morning you make your waytowards the Urubamba Valley, here you will visit the Pisac archaeological complex. This collection of Incan dwellings, temples and terraces are perfectly situated within the beautiful landscape of the Sacred Valleys. You then continue to the famous Pisac Markets, known for its colourful traditional handicrafts. You’ll have some time to barter with the local merchants before you continue to Ollantaytambo. This Incan fortress and citadel were built in the mid 15th century and was constructed to guard the entrance to this part of the valley.
Overnight: Ollantaytambo | Breakfast
Machu Picchu
This morning transfer to the train station for your scenic train journey through the mountains to the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the famous Incan Citadel of Machu Picchu. Here you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the highlights including the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Sun Dial and the Royal Quarters. The legendary 'Lost City' is without a doubt one of the world's most impressive archaeological sites. Built by the Incas on the summit of "Machu Picchu", it overlooks the deep canyon of the Urubamba river in a semi-tropical area. This afternoon you return to Cusco.
Overnight: Cusco | Breakfast
Cusco to Rio De Janeiro
Today offers free time to explore the beautiful city of Cusco. Later this afternoon you’ll transfer to the airport for your overnight flight to Rio.
Overnight: Flight (not included) | Breakfast
Christ The Redeemer
Arriving into Rio de Janeiro this morning you’ll be escorted to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. On Day 29 you enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city. A very photogenic city, you’ll make your way up to Sugar Loaf Mountain this morning, rising up from a small peninsula in Guanabara bay. You reach the summit by taking two cable cars, from here you’ll have amazing views out across the city. Look out on some famous part of the city including Botafogo and Copacabana Beaches, the Corcovado and downtown Rio.
This afternoon you make your way to Corcovado to witness your final World Wonder of the tour, the statue of Christ the Redeemer. Constructed between 1922 and 1931 it was funded it was almost entirely funded from donations by Brazilian Catholics.
Day 30 offers free time to explore the amazing beaches of Rio and the other parts of the city not yet explored.
Overnight: Rio De Janeiro | Breakfast x 2
Rio De Janeiro
Check out at midday today. The rest of the day is at leisure before your transfer to the airport where your amazing round the world trip ends.
Breakfast
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Hotel Diana , Rome
In the heart of the city, a short distance from the Termini station, the welcoming family-run Hotel Diana is situated in a prime location within a 10-minute walk of Teatro dell ‘Opera di Roma and Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. The Trevi Fountain and Roman Forum are also within 1 mile (2 km). Enjoy the spectacular views overlooking the rooftops of this amazing city whilst enjoying a delicious dinner or glass of fine Italian wine whilst watching the sun set from the panoramic gardens. The charming air-conditioned rooms feature a minibar, free wi-fi and satellite TV, as well as private bathrooms.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Cairo
Radisson Blu is in the Heliopolis area of Cairo, just 3 kms from Cairo International Airport and 18 kms from the city centre. Providing spacious, well appointed guest rooms with amenities such as a daily newspaper and turndown service, the hotel is the perfect oasis for guests visiting the city. Its two restaurants, lobby lounge, and gourmet bakery offer a range of culinary choices. To top it all off, the hotel boasts a rooftop spa and pool with panoramic Cairo views.
Petra Guest House Hotel, Petra
The Petra Guest House Hotel is situated at the entrance of ancient Petra, perfect for those looking to rise early and visit the incredible lost city before the crowds. The comfortable rooms are traditionally furnished in muted tones reminiscent of the sands of Petra and Wadi Musa. Set in landscaped gardens the hotel provides impressive panoramic views of Petra and the surrounding mountains. Dine on Arabic and European cuisine in the Cave Bar, set in a restored 1st century Nabatean house.
Holiday Inn Resort, Dead Sea
Graced with interconnecting palm fringed swimming pools leading to the Dead Sea, the Holiday Inn is an Arabesque style hotel. Guest rooms are elegantly furnished and benefit from complimentary high speed internet. The hotel also has an on site fitness centre and a fine choice of Spa facilities. The 24 hour sleek bar is the perfect place for a tipple at any time of the day or night. The accommodation is located on the shores of the world famous Dead Sea.
The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, Delhi
The luxurious Leela Ambiance Convention Hotel is a modern property located in East Delhi a superb choice for those looking to escape the chaos of the city. In your free time, why not indulge in one of the rejuvenating treatments, available at the luxurious spa, further facilities also include a gym, outdoor swimming pool featuring a yoga deck. When it comes to dining you will discover a range of delicious cuisines are served in the various restaurants that can be found within the hotel. The sophisticated surroundings at the Cherry Tree bar offer the perfect escape to enjoy a tipple or two. Guestrooms are beautifully designed with rich furnishings and are equipped with a flat-screen cable TV, minibar and a tea/coffee maker. The spacious en suite bathroom is fitted with a bath and shower. Leela Ambience Convention Hotel is around 3 km away from Karkardooma and Mansarovar Park metro stations and approximately 15 km from New Delhi Railway station.
Crystal Sarovar Premiere, Agra
The luxurious Crystal Sarovar Premiere encompasses everything needed for a perfect stay in Agra. Each of its guestrooms has been exquisitely designed with splashes of colour, plush furnishings and elegant ensuite facilities. In their free time, guests are invited to take a dip in the sparkling roof top pool, which commands stunning vistas of the hotel's surroundings. The hotel also has a fitness club with state of the art equipment. When it comes to dining, guests can choose from multiple restaurants, each serving mouth-watering dishes from around the world. The hotel is just 1.9km from the Taj Mahal.
Howard Johnson Paragon Hotel, Beijing
Centrally located on East Chang An Street opposite the railway station, just a short distance from the top Beijing attractions such as Tian'anmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven. The culinary options available at the hotel include the Sunshine Atrium Café, offering local and international delights, the Rainbow Garden Restaurant specialising in Hunan and Cantonese cuisine the why not end the day relaxing with a tipple from the Noble Lounge bar. The modern guest rooms are equipped with the latest conveniences including mini bar, flat screen TV and WIFI access.
Hotel Illusion , Playa del Carmen
A small boutique style hotel in Playa del Carmen, in an exceptional location, just 2 minutes’ walk away from the beach and the famous 5th Avenue, you will certainly be close to the multitude of restaurants, cafes and vibrant nightlife Playa del Carmen has to offer. On the rooftop there is a spectacular large terrace with fabulous views over the Mexican Caribbean Sea and a plunge pool, perfect for relaxing by during the day. The hotel offers spacious, contemporary rooms with king or queen size beds, each decorated distinctly, with Juliet balconies overlooking the interior courtyard.
Hotel Jose Antonio Executive, Lima
The Jose Antonio Executive is a smart modern hotel in downtown Lima. The rooms are contemporary in design with dark wood floors and a neutral colour palette. Free WiFi is provided in all rooms. There's an attractive outdoor pool with an onsite restaurant where guests can dine on a variety of local and international dishes. The hotel is located in the affluent Miraflores district of Lima where you will find numerous restaurants and cafes. It's also just three blocks from Makaha Beach.
Hotel Pakaritampu , Ollantaytambo
Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley in the village of Ollantaytambo just 50 yards from the train station which is on the mainline to Machu Pichu. This delightful property exudes Peruvian charm in an idyllic setting amidst stunning gardens, perfect for relaxing in after a busy day. The onsite restaurant offers a variety of both local Peruvian delicacies and international meals for you to sample, after dinner head into the cosy lounge, kick back and enjoy the warmth from the log fire. Charmingly decorated rooms offer standard king size or twin beds, safety-deposit box, a TV with cable channels and Free WiFi access. The main square is only a ten-minute walk away. Here you'll find a selection of shops and restaurants, as well as remnants of Ollantaytambo’s magnificent Inca fortress.
Windsor Excelsior Hotel, Rio De Janeiro
Located in the heart of Copacabana beach, this hotel is just a stones throw away from the ocean. Boasting a rooftop pool with views across the South Atlantic Ocean. The nearest metro station is just 50 yards away making it a perfect location to explore the rest of the city.
In Brief
