Overview:
Embark on a captivating 10-day journey through Egypt, exploring its ancient wonders and historical sites. From the iconic pyramids of Giza to the tranquil waters of the Nile River, this luxury small-group tour offers an immersive experience, combining cultural insights with the comfort of hand-selected accommodations and expert guidance.
Highlights:
- Witness the grandeur of the Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza.
- Cruise along the Nile on Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’– Oberoi Cruises, discovering ancient temples and historic sites.
- Explore the Valley of the Kings, including the tomb of Tutankhamun.
- Visit the Temple of Hathor at Denderah and the Greco-Roman temple at Kom Ombo.
- Experience the majesty of Philae Temple in Aswan and a felucca ride around the Aswan islands.
- Marvel at the twin temples of Ramses II and Nefertari in Abu Simbel.
- Discover the treasures of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities in Cairo.
Advantages:
- Expert Guidance: Enjoy the expertise of an English-Speaking Resident Tour Director and Local Guides throughout the journey.
- Luxurious Accommodations: Stay in hand-selected luxury accommodations, ensuring comfort and relaxation.
- Seamless Travel: Benefit from internal flights, visa assistance, and a provided sim card for convenient communication.
- Exclusive Cruising Experience: Cruise the Nile on Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV,’ away from crowds, ensuring a more intimate exploration.
- Traveller’s Amenities: Experience Travelling Bell Boy® Luggage Handling, Breakfast in Bed on Select Days, and Traveller’s Valet® Laundry Service.
- Inclusive Packages: All sightseeing tours in Cairo are private, while those on the cruise are shared within the group.
- Support and Assistance: Enjoy 24/7 On-Call Support and Airport Meet and Greet with Private Transfers.
Itinerary:
DAY 1: ARRIVE CAIRO, EGYPT
Upon arrival in Cairo, you will be greeted by a representative from Ramasside Tours, our trusted tour manager. The inclusive visa process will be taken care of, and you’ll be transferred to a historic hotel boasting stunning views of the pyramids. In the evening, an excursion is planned for the Sound & Light show in the Pyramids area.
Accommodation: Mena House Hotel
DAY 2: GIZA | THE PYRAMIDS & SPHINX
Begin the day exploring the Giza Plateau, home to the pyramids of Mycerinus, Chefren, and the iconic Great Pyramid. The latter, dating back to approximately 2690 BC, is the sole survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Delve into the interior of one of these legendary pyramids and experience a camel ride. Visit the Great Sphinx and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. The afternoon is at your leisure, followed by a welcome dinner in the evening.
Accommodation: Mena House Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3: LUXOR | KARNAK AND THE VALLEY OF THE KINGS
Fly to Luxor for a full day exploring the Temple of Karnak, a testament to the ambitions of numerous pharaohs. Lunch will be served on Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV,’ followed by a visit to the Necropolis of Thebes and the Valley of the Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the tomb of Tutankhamun and explore the Temple of Hatshepsut. A photo stop at the Colossi of Memnon concludes the day.
Accommodation: Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’– Oberoi Cruises
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4: CRUISING THE NILE | TEMPLE OF HATHOR AT DENDERAH
Embark on a scenic cruise to the well-preserved Temple of Hathor at Denderah. Return to Luxor, exploring the east bank with visits to the city of Thebes and the Temple of Luxor. Admire the statues of Ramses II and the Colonnade of Amenhotep III.
Accommodation: Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’– Oberoi Cruises
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5: CRUISING THE NILE | EDFU TO KOM OMBO
Cruise to Edfu to marvel at the Temple of Horus. Join a local cooking lesson on board and later disembark at Kom Ombo to visit the Greco-Roman temple dedicated to Haroeris and Sobek. Witness the mummified remains of ancient Nile crocodiles.
Accommodation: Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’– Oberoi Cruises
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6: ASWAN | MAJESTIC PHILAE
Cruise to Aswan and visit Philae Temple on the island of Agilika. Explore the granite quarries and the site of the Unfinished Obelisk. Enjoy a felucca ride around Aswan islands.
Accommodation: Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’– Oberoi Cruises
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7: ABU SIMBEL | TEMPLES OF RAMSES II & NEFERTARI
Disembark Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’ and fly to Abu Simbel to witness the twin temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari. Return to Cairo for an afternoon at leisure.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 8: CAIRO | LEGENDARY PHARAOHS & BUSTLING SOUK
Visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, housing the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. Explore the Mosque and Madrasa of Sultan Hassan before strolling through Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. The evening is free for leisure.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 9: CAIRO | ANCIENT TREASURES
Drive to Memphis, the capital of the ancient kingdom, and continue to Sakkara, site of the Step Pyramid of Djoser. Conclude the day with a farewell dinner.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 10: DEPART CAIRO
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for departure.
Meals: Breakfast
INCLUDED WITH EVERY LUXURY SMALL GROUP JOURNEY
- Internal flights included
- Visa included
- Sim card for usage in Egypt
- English-Speaking Resident Tour Director and Local Guides
- Hand-Selected Luxury Accommodations
- Travelling Bell Boy® Luggage Handling
- New for 2018! Breakfast in Bed on Select Days
- Traveller’s Valet® Laundry Service
- Internet Access (Where Available)
- Airport Meet and Greet with Private Transfers
- Full Breakfast Daily; Select Lunches and Dinners
- Entrance Fees, Taxes and All Gratuities Except Resident Tour Director
- 24/7 On-Call Support
- All sightseeing tours in Cairo are private as in the itinerary
- All sightseeing tours on the cruise sharing the cruise group
Excluded:
- International flights
Tour Price:
Special Offer: Internal Air included in the price
SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS Limited to 10 guests
Stay at the historic Mena House Hotel, with views of the pyramids from your own private balcony, and at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Cairo .Explore one of Egypt’s legendary pyramids from the inside
Cruise through Egypt in comfort on Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV,’ travelling to Giza, Luxor and off-the-beaten-path Denderah, exploring a pyramid from the inside out, riding a camel and sailing the Nile in a felucca.
Sail on a four-night Nile river cruise aboard award-winning Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’ .Travel to off-the-beaten-path Denderah, one of Egypt’s best-preserved and less-frequented temples
Hotels / Nile Cruise:
Kindly note that the hotel rating in Egypt is not the same as in USA or Europe, so Luxury or Ultimate Luxury hotel options are always recommended as minimum in Egypt.
Four Seasons Hotel Cairo -Mena House Hotel
Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat ‘– Oberoi Cruises
| All year round | High seasons | |
|---|---|---|
| DBL or TRPL Room | 7895 $ | 8495 $ |
| Solo traveller | 10390 $ | 11390 $ |
Tips and Advice for Travelers:
- Comfortable Attire: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear, especially for exploring archaeological sites.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated, especially during excursions in the Egyptian sun.
- Currency: Have local currency for small purchases; credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments.
- Respect Local Customs: Respect local traditions and customs, particularly when visiting religious sites.
- Photography: Capture memories but be mindful of photography restrictions in certain areas.
- Weather Considerations: Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, considering the warm climate.
- Bargaining Skills: Hone your bargaining skills for shopping in markets like Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.
FAQs: Q1: Are international flights included in the tour package? A: No, international flights are not included in the package. Travelers are responsible for booking their own flights.
Q2: What language will the guides speak? A: The guides will primarily speak English, ensuring clear communication and a deeper understanding of the historical context.
Q3: Is tipping customary in Egypt? A: Yes, tipping is customary, and it is advisable to tip guides, drivers, and service staff as a gesture of appreciation.
Q4: Are dietary preferences accommodated during meals? A: Efforts will be made to accommodate dietary preferences; however, it’s advisable to communicate any specific requirements in advance.
Q5: What is the group size for the tour? A: This is a luxury small-group tour, ensuring a more personalized experience with a limited number of participants.
Q6: Is there free time for individual exploration? A: Yes, there are designated periods of leisure to allow travelers some free time for individual exploration or relaxation.