Embark on an opulent 11-day expedition across Egypt, delving into Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan while luxuriating on a Nile River cruise. Behold the breathtaking Pyramids of Giza, unravel the secrets within pharaohs’ tombs at the Valley of the Kings, and be awestruck by the splendor of the Karnak Temple. Immerse yourself in the profound allure of this historically rich land, embracing the magnificence that has enchanted explorers for centuries, leaving you with enduring memories of ancient wonders.
Greetings in Egypt! When you land at Cairo airport, our team will be there to greet you and take you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind, or if you arrive early, you can consider joining a Backstreets Tour of Cairo departing from the hotel at 10 am. Please note that for those interested in extending their stay, we offer an optional Alexandria Day Trip before your tour commences or on the final day. Additionally, we can assist with pre/post tour accommodation upon request.
Overnight - Cairo
Embark on a fascinating journey today as we marvel at the awe-inspiring pyramids and the iconic Sphinx at The Giza Plateau. Consider enhancing your experience with a camel ride. Our exploration continues as we venture to Saqqara, where a myriad of tombs and temples await discovery. Witness the architectural brilliance of Zhoser's step pyramid, constructed by Imhotep, the chief architect to the pharaoh, around 2700 BC. Immerse yourself in the rich history and ancient wonders of this remarkable site.
Overnight - Cairo
Meals: Breakfast
This morning, we embark on a guided exploration of the expansive new Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza. Spanning an impressive 490,000 square meters, this complex unveils a staggering collection of relics and antiquities, spanning nearly every era of ancient Egyptian history, including the renowned treasures of King Tutankhamun. Our journey continues at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, where we delve into the captivating Royal Mummies' Hall, showcasing the mummies of ancient Egyptian kings and queens. Afterward, return to the hotel for a leisurely poolside respite before boarding the overnight sleeper train to Luxor tonight.
Overnight - Sleeper Train
Meals: Breakfast
This morning, our journey brings us to Luxor, from where we drive to Dendera, a marvel situated 60 kilometers north of Luxor and renowned as one of Egypt's impeccably preserved temple complexes. Encompassing a vast 40,000 square meters, this complex has seen the gradual construction of temples, chapels, and shrines over millennia. The pièce de résistance at Dendera is the 2000-year-old Temple of Hathor, boasting a ceiling adorned with exquisite decorations. Following a guided tour of this extraordinary site, we return to Luxor, where the afternoon invites leisure. Enjoy a relaxing stroll, take a refreshing swim, or bask in the sunshine. As the evening unfolds, consider an optional visit to behold the enchanting Temple of Luxor illuminated at night. Secure your spot by booking and paying locally.
Optional Excursions: Luxor Temple approx $45 pp
Overnight - Luxor
Meals: Breakfast
Embark on a journey into the heart of ancient Luxor, a city steeped in 4000 years of history. This morning, our exploration leads us to Luxor's famed West Bank, where an optional hot air balloon excursion awaits. At 4:30 AM, experience the magic of a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the West Bank, witnessing breathtaking views of Luxor's landscape and iconic landmarks. Following the 40 to 55-minute ride, savor a breakfast box and delve into the Valley of the Kings, home to intricately adorned pharaoh's tombs. Explore the remarkable Temple of Hatshepsut, an impressive limestone structure, and marvel at the colossal Colossi of Memnon, remnants of Amenophis III's temple. Returning to the East Bank, settle into a 5-star Nile cruiser for a four-night stay. After lunch and relaxation on board, venture to the colossal Temple of Karnak, a grand complex dedicated to Theban gods and Egypt's Middle and New Kingdom rulers, featuring sanctuaries, pylons, chapels, halls, and obelisks. Immerse yourself in the magnificence of ancient Luxor.
Optional Excursions: Hot air balloon approx $120 pp
Overnight - Nile cruiser
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Embark on a Nile cruise, sailing downstream. Unwind on the deck, take a refreshing swim, bask in the sunshine, and relish scenic views while gliding along the majestic River Nile.
Overnight - Nile cruiser
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Embark on a leisurely Nile cruise, savoring another day aboard as we sail to the Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to Sobek and Horus. The unique temple boasts perfect symmetry, featuring twin halls, courts, colonnades, sanctuaries, and entrances. Following a guided tour, our journey proceeds, reaching Aswan by evening.
Overnight - Nile cruiser
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Consider the optional early morning visit to the Temples of Ramses II at Abu Simbel today. Refer to our Abu Simbel by Road add-on for details. Alternatively, you can enjoy a leisurely morning. In the afternoon, take a brief motorboat trip to the Philae Temple dedicated to the goddess Isis. Originally dating back to the 4th century BC, it underwent extensive construction by the Ptolemies and Romans until the 3rd century AD. Threatened by Lake Nasser's rising waters, UNESCO rescued and relocated the entire temple to Agilika Island in a massive 8-year effort in 1972. Conclude the day with tea, dinner on board, and the option to relax or explore Aswan's vibrant souks.
Optional Excursions: Abu Simbel Temple approx $90 pp by bus
Overnight - Nile Cruiser
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today grants you free time to explore Aswan at your leisure. Explore the Old Cataract Hotel, where Agatha Christie penned "Death on the Nile," or visit the meticulously curated Nubian Museum. In the late afternoon, board the overnight train, embarking on our journey back to Cairo.
Overnight - Sleeper Train
Meals: Breakfast
Upon your morning arrival in Cairo, transfer to the hotel and complete check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to relish the hotel amenities, or you can choose to join an optional tour exploring Old Cairo, Coptic Cairo, and the Citadel of Saladin (booking available locally).
Optional Excursions: Cairo city tour approx $45 pp
Overnight - Cairo
Meals: Breakfast
Concluding today, our tour ends with a transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Safe travels!
Meals: Breakfast
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