Discover the contrasts of modern and ancient Egypt on a 15-day Premium adventure. Beginning and ending in Egypt’s capital, Cairo, gaze up at the magnificent Pyramids of Giza, take a four-day cruise down the legendary Nile and explore the grand temples of Abu Simbel. Uncover the secrets of the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple and the city of Alexandria. Visit the tombs of ancient pharaohs, share meals with local families and stand in awe of gigantic, rock-cut statues. Accompanied by a local Egyptologist, learn about the mystery and beauty of these ancient lands.
Our adventure begins in Cairo. Our representative will meet you on arrival at Cairo International Airport and transfer to your hotel. If you have free time, you can spend some time at your hotel’s pool and bar area. Then get your first taste of Egyptian cuisine. Head to a local restaurant and try out some classic dishes.
After having breakfast this morning, embark on a journey to visit the most iconic structures in the world: the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Accompanied by a knowledgeable Egyptologist, you will delve into the captivating history behind these remarkable engineering marvels. If you choose, there is an optional opportunity to venture inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu (or Cheops). After immersing yourself in this awe-inspiring setting, your adventure proceeds to the Egyptian Museum, which houses a magnificent collection of ancient artifacts. Roam through the halls brimming with treasures. The vast assortment of shimmering relics retrieved from Tutankhamun's tomb is truly impressive; from jewelry to the renowned golden death mask and gilded sarcophagi, this pharaoh was undoubtedly prepared for the afterlife. Enhance your experience by opting for a guided tour while also allowing yourself time for independent exploration. In the evening, enjoy leisure time, perhaps considering a taxi ride into Cairo to further explore the city. For a truly special experience, you might want to reserve a dinner cruise on the Nile.
After breakfast, embark on a road trip to Alexandria, making a stop at Wadi El Natron. Your Guide will share the story of how this area became a refuge for Christians when Saint Macarius the Great retreated here in AD360. Once home to around 60 monasteries, only four remain today. One of them is Anba Bishoy Monastery, named after Saint Bishoi who sought solitude here. Stroll through the gardens and witness the daily lives of the resident monks, then visit the church for panoramic views of the desert. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Alexandria, a city founded by Alexander the Great and known as the Pearl of the Mediterranean.
Embark on a captivating journey through Alexandria alongside your knowledgeable Egyptologist/Guide. Unveil the city's secrets as you visit Pompey's Pillar and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a remarkable Roman burial site from the second century that remained hidden until 1900. These intriguing tombs blend Greek, Egyptian, and Roman influences, reflecting a transitional period in Alexandria's history. Explore the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, once the renowned Great Library of Alexandria, standing where the Library of Ptolemies once thrived 1700 years ago. Conclude your day with a visit to Fort Qaitbay, a 14th-century fortress built on the site of the former Alexandria Lighthouse, serving as a defense against the Ottoman empire. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the corniche or relax at your hotel, enjoying the waterfront atmosphere.
Accommodation
Included Activities
Meals Included
Today, either in the morning or in the afternoon, we return to Cairo and savor the evening with free time for leisurely pursuits. On the way back to Cairo, we stop for lunch.
After enjoying breakfast, transfer to Cairo Airport and board a short flight bound for Luxor. Luxor, once the capital of the pharaohs during their pinnacle of power, now stands as a remarkable open-air museum, arguably one of the greatest in the world. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your Feature Stay Nile riverboat, where you can settle in and unpack for a delightful four-night stay. Immerse yourself in the captivating ancient history of the Nile and witness the breathtaking sights along its banks. The riverboat offers all the luxurious amenities of a world-class hotel, including a swimming pool, sundeck, restaurant, and cabins with panoramic windows, allowing you to witness the ever-changing riverside life. By traveling via riverboat, you have the unique opportunity to delve deep into each destination while also enjoying the fascinating journeys in between.
This afternoon or - if you wish - upon arrival, embark on a visit to Karnak, one of the most renowned temple complexes in the world. Constructed over a span of approximately 2000 years, some sections of Karnak date back to 2040 BC. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide/Egyptologist, explore the finest sections of this impressive complex. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is yours to unwind and relax. You may choose to walk through the vibrant bazaar or simply unwind at a local teahouse, embracing the local ambiance.
Start your day early by embarking on a captivating journey into the Valley of the Kings. Nestled beneath the hills lie more than 60 pharaoh tombs, adorned with exquisite decorations, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Accompanied by your knowledgeable Egyptologist, explore this remarkable site where ongoing discoveries continue to unfold. Gain insights into the ancient Egyptians' funerary rituals and the symbolic significance behind the intricate paintings and hieroglyphics. Visit the resting place of Tutankhamun, a momentous archaeological find considered one of the greatest of all time. You will have the remarkable opportunity to enter the tomb and immerse yourself in its painted chamber, marveling at the iconic sarcophagus.
Continue your exploration with visits to three additional royal tombs before heading to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, situated in a stunning natural amphitheater. Your final stop takes you to the Colossi of Memnon, colossal statues that were once part of an impressive colonnade. Afterward, return to the boat for a leisurely lunch, allowing you time to relax on deck or in your cabin. As the afternoon unfolds, set sail upstream towards Edfu, where you will arrive in the evening, ready to embark on the next phase of your adventure.
In the morning, your boat will be anchored near Edfu, offering you the possibility to explore the nearby temple, should you choose to do so. As you continue your journey along the river, take advantage of the sunny weather by relaxing on deck and enjoying the picturesque scenery of desert hills contrasting against the lush riverbanks.
In the afternoon, you will reach Kom Ombo Temple, perched magnificently on the river's edge. Your knowledgeable guide/Egyptologist will enlighten you about the temple's construction, dating back to around 181 BC. This remarkable structure is dedicated to two gods: Haroris, the deity of protection, and Sobek, the god associated with fertility and the Nile's waters. The temple is divided into two distinct sections, one for each god—north for Haroris and south for Sobek. Notably, recent discoveries have unveiled mummified crocodiles in the Sobek section, adding to the site's intrigue. Following your exploration, reboard the boat and proceed to Aswan, where you will arrive in the late evening.
Begin your morning by immersing yourself in the captivating temple complex of Philae, which encompasses the magnificent Temple of Isis situated on Agilkia Island. This architectural marvel has been carefully reconstructed in its current location to preserve it from the encroaching waters. Adorned with intricate carvings, the temple showcases some of Egypt's most exquisite craftsmanship. Notably, some Egyptologists believe that Philae was the final active site of the ancient Egyptian religion, and it is said to be the place where the last hieroglyph of ancient Egypt was inscribed.
Following this enriching visit, walk around to explore the vibrant city of Aswan on foot. Stroll through the bustling marketplace known as Sharia el Souk or the bazaar, where a kaleidoscope of colors awaits.
Conclude the day by returning to the boat, where you can relish another evening gently lulled to sleep by the tranquil waters of the Nile.
This morning, embark on a road journey to Abu Simbel. Your accommodation is conveniently situated by the picturesque Lake Nasser, offering lush grounds, two enticing swimming pools, and breathtaking views overlooking the lake. Spending the night here allows you to enjoy a more relaxed visit to the Abu Simbel temples, in contrast to a hurried half-day excursion. These awe-inspiring temples were constructed during the reign of Ramesses II and required an impressive 20 years to complete. Adorned with rock-cut statues of the pharaoh and the queen, some reaching a staggering height of 20 meters, these temples stand as magnificent testaments to ancient Egypt's grandeur. Your Egyptologist/guide will accompany you on a tour of the complex, providing enlightening historical insights into these colossal structures.
As evening descends, return to the temples for an unforgettable sound and light show, adding a captivating touch to your Abu Simbel experience.
Today’s total driving time is approximately 3.5 hours.
The accommodation options at Abu Simbel are limited and sometimes fully booked.Arrive back in Aswan in time for a leisurely lunch. Take advantage of this opportunity to unwind at your hotel or further explore the city at your own pace. Later in the afternoon, we head to a bygone era with a visit to the Old Cataract Hotel, where you will indulge in a delightful afternoon tea experience. Established in 1899 by Thomas Cook, this iconic hotel has welcomed distinguished guests such as Princess Diana, Winston Churchill, and Agatha Christie, who famously resided here while crafting her masterpiece "Death on the Nile." Immerse yourself in the allure of old-world glamour as you savor delectable finger foods and a delightful selection of teas, presented on tiered trays. The hotel's picturesque grounds overlooking the Nile provide a stunning backdrop for this experience. During your free evening, take the opportunity to discover a local culinary gem for dinner, and feel free to seek recommendations from your knowledgeable guide.
Embark on a journey this morning to witness a remarkable feat of Egyptian engineering, the Aswan High Dam, serving as a testament to modern advancements. Located approximately 13 kilometers south of Aswan, this dam's history, which involved the relocation of numerous ancient temples and statues, has ultimately had a mostly positive impact on the region. Following this visit, proceed to the Unfinished Obelisk, an intriguing structure that, if completed, would have become the largest obelisk ever erected. Stand in awe of this abandoned marvel.
Return to Aswan, allowing yourself some time to unwind and relax. In the late afternoon, embark on a traditional felucca, a sailing boat, destined for Elephantine Island. This island was traditionally believed to be the abode of Khnum, the deity responsible for safeguarding and controlling the waters of the Nile. As the day transitions to evening, savor the breathtaking sunset views from the felucca while enjoying refreshing drinks on the river. Disembark at a village and partake in a remarkable experience as you join a local family for a traditional Nubian feast. This immersive opportunity allows you to witness a different facet of Egyptian life, sample delightful Nubian cuisine, and engage in heartfelt conversations with your hospitable hosts.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Cairo. Upon arrival, check-in at your downtown hotel and settle in. In the early afternoon, embark on a captivating walking tour, providing you with a glimpse of the modern side of Cairo and offering insights into the daily lives of the locals. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, indulge in the flavors of Cairo's beloved street food, sampling culinary delights along the way. As you stroll, your guide will point out intriguing displays of contemporary architecture that grace the city's streets. Take a moment to visit Tahrir Square, an iconic site that witnessed the political demonstrations leading to the 2011 and 2013 Egyptian Revolutions. Hear the captivating story of the historic events that unfolded in this significant location.
Delve into the rich layers of Egyptian history as you spend the day exploring Islamic Cairo. Begin your adventure at the Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, a captivating labyrinthine area filled with meandering alleyways teeming with shops, cafes, and more. This bustling marketplace offers an authentic Cairo experience, boasting attractions such as the gold market, perfume street, and the spice market. Take a moment to relax and savor the flavors of the city with a cup of Arabic coffee or refreshing mint tea at El Fishawy, Cairo's oldest café. With a legacy spanning seven generations and beloved by Cairo's residents, this establishment provides a genuine glimpse into local life.
Continue your journey to the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, an architectural gem that exudes Islamic grandeur. Nearby, immerse yourself in the enchanting Gayer-Anderson Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of peculiar objects ranging from antique furniture to Islamic artifacts.
To celebrate your Egyptian adventure, partake in a special experience by sharing an authentic Egyptian meal with a welcoming local family. Embrace their hospitality as they open their home to you, engaging in conversations about life in Egypt and the country's diverse cuisine. Indulge in a delightful feast featuring traditional dishes, savoring the flavors while immersing yourself in the warmth of Egyptian hospitality.
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