Destinations: Cairo, Luxor, Nile River Valley, Aswan, Abu Simbel
Destinations: Wadi Rum, Petra, Dead Sea, Amman
Destinations: Sharm El Sheikh, St. Catherine
Cairo, Luxor, Nile River Valley, Aswan, Abu Simbel
Discover the magic and mystery of ancient Egypt and cruise the Nile in indulgent comfort on this once-in-a-lifetime luxury small-group tour. Witness the majesty of the pharaohs and the sprawling sands of their kingdom in the height of five-star luxury with stays at the opulent Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence and the magnificent Hilton Cairo Heliopolis. Step beneath the shadow of the Great Pyramid of Giza, the last remaining Ancient Wonder of the World, and walk through the astounding Valley of the Kings, home to Tutankhamun’s legendary resting place.
Brush up on historic treasures with your expert Egyptologist and local guides to lead you, taking you from the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation to the great temples of Abu Simbel. Travel in absolute comfort with airport transfers, internal flights and a private air-conditioned coach to take you between Egypt’s most exciting spots. Take to the sparkling waters of the Nile in pure luxury on your Sanctuary Retreats Nile Adventurer cruise and immerse yourself in the traditional dance, music and dining of the region’s vibrant cultures. Experience sunrise and sunset over idyllic waters and sands that have seen centuries of human history.
Cairo, Luxor, Nile River Valley, Aswan, Abu Simbel
Destinations: Cairo, Luxor, Nile River Valley, Aswan, Abu Simbel
Destinations: Wadi Rum, Petra, Dead Sea, Amman
Destinations: Sharm El Sheikh, St. Catherine
Ahlan wa sahlan! The grandeur and glory of Egypt await as you arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI) and take your transfer to the spectacular Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence, tucked between lush gardens on the western bank of the Nile.
Steeped in ancient mystery and buzzing with modern vibrancy, cosmopolitan Cairo is a city alive with culture. Fed by the lifeline of the glittering Nile, Egypt’s capital is known as the ‘City of a Thousand Minarets’ thanks to its spectacular collection of preserved Islamic Caliphate architecture.
Enjoy the first day at your leisure to relax and take in your timelessly elegant surroundings.
After a delicious buffet breakfast, meet your tour coordinator for an introduction to your resident Egyptologist. The study of ancient Egyptian language, history and architecture has obsessed archaeologists and linguists for centuries, and Egyptology has become a respected discipline across the world.
Waste no time mining your guide’s expert knowledge as you head to Cairo’s National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation. This landmark institution covers great swathes of the nation’s history, from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum’s crown jewel is the fascinating Royal Mummies Hall, which displays embalmed pharaohs from Egypt’s distant past, including the remains of celebrated figures Hatshepsut, Thutmose III and Seqenenre Taa II.
Enjoy a set-menu lunch at Le Pacha 1901, an astounding floating palace moored on the banks of the great Nile, then return to your accommodation for an afternoon of leisure. In the evening, savour a sumptuous welcome dinner at your elegant hotel.
Today, experience one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, with a full day dedicated to the extraordinary pyramids.
Begin with the legendary city of Memphis, founded almost 5,000 years ago by the Pharaoh Menes, who united Upper and Lower Egypt. Memphis became the capital of the Old Kingdom and the heart of Egypt’s busy import-export activity, with traders from around the world giving it a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Visit the necropolis of Saqqara, where the very first pyramids were built as tombs for kings. Instead of the smooth sides featured on other pyramids, these stepped pyramids represent the pharaoh’s stepladder to heaven. Discover the famous Step Pyramid of King Zoser, the oldest known pyramid in Egypt and the world’s first freestanding stone structure.
Enjoy a lunch of traditional Egyptian cuisine at 9 Pyramids Lounge and relax in Bedouin-style seating overlooking the spectacular pyramids of Giza.
The Great Pyramids of Giza are the only present-day survivors of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, built over 4,500 years ago as giant tombs for Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. Truly monumental in scale, the largest of these ancient structures is estimated to have taken over two million blocks to complete.
Nearby rests the enigmatic Sphinx, watchful guardian of the colossal funerary monuments. About a thousand years after its construction, a young prince had a dream in which the Sphinx promised him the title of Pharaoh if he cleared the sand from the statue. See the story for yourself, carved on the famed Dream Stele between the Sphinx’s great paws.
Return to your luxurious accommodation in Cairo for another evening spent in Egypt’s vibrant capital.
This morning, pay a visit to the Citadel of Cairo, a medieval fortress perched high on limestone hills above Cairo. Built in the 12th century to protect the city from crusaders, today the citadel complex houses various historic sites, including the National Military Museum and the Great Mosque of Muhammad Ali.
Delve further into Cairo’s Islamic history when you stop at the incredible Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan. With its soaring heights and rich decoration, this is one of the finest mosques in Egypt. Next door, discover Refai Mosque, completed in 1912 and housing the tombs of an Islamic saint, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, Egypt’s last royal family and the last Shah of Iran.
Enjoy a set lunch overlooking expansive Cairo at Sky Rim, then continue to the Egyptian Museum. Wander through 7,000 years of history as you peruse the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian art. Explore the many priceless antiquities with your private Egyptologist guide and uncover the treasures of Tutankhamun, from his golden mask to his solid gold sarcophagus and regal throne.
Return to your hotel late this afternoon with the rest of the evening at leisure.
Transfer to Cairo International Airport (CAI) for your included flight to Luxor (LXR), where you will be transferred to your luxury vessel for your four-night Nile cruise.
En route, visit the majestic Temple of Luxor, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient sanctuary, often called the world’s greatest open-air museum.
Continue to your luxury Sanctuary Retreats vessel and check in to your comfortably furnished cabin. Elegant interiors, opulent cabins, serene surroundings and lavish, freshly prepared meals – all complemented by daily sightseeing along the river – make a luxury cruise along the Nile an unforgettable experience.
Partake in a filling lunch aboard and enjoy a welcome zaffa – a traditional band procession that features wooden-framed bendir drums, horns and a mesmerising dance of flaming swords.
Later, set out to explore the West Bank of Luxor and uncover the fabled Valley of the Kings, where you can witness the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. On your return, pass the famed Colossi of Memnon, built to depict King Amenhotep III in a resting position and known for the mournful sounds they’re said to make at dawn.
Back aboard, enjoy afternoon tea in the lounge and meet your boat manager over canapes and refreshments. Tonight, indulge in a memorable gourmet dinner beneath the stars.
After an energising buffet breakfast, set sail for the East Bank and the Karnak Temple Complex. Spend the morning digging into the vast collection of temples, pylons and historic landmarks, before taking your lunch onboard your luxury cruiser as you glide further along the Nile.
You may wish to enjoy an optional luxury hot air balloon flight over the Luxor skies, catching the breeze that sweeps the Nile and taking a new view of the ancient city. Your pilot will guide you as you spot notable landmarks and learn more about the area’s rich history.
Back aboard your vessel, enjoy a refreshing afternoon tea and laze in the Egyptian sun, then savour a mouthwatering dinner and a cosy movie night.
Optional activities:
After breakfast, spend the morning exploring Egypt’s largest and best-preserved Pharaonic temple – the Temple of Horus at Edfu. Built to venerate ancient Horus, god of the Sun – later identified by the Greeks as Apollo – the site is a breathtaking glimpse into Hellenistic Egypt.
Back aboard, get hands-on with an aromatic Egyptian cooking lesson and reap the fruits of your labour over lunch as you cruise onward to the millennia-old agricultural settlement of Kom Ombo. Stroll through the charming village, positioned on a bend in the river where sacred crocodiles once basked in the sun. Wonder at the unique double temple, dedicated to both Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility, and Haroeris, the falcon god of the sky.
Return to your vessel and continue towards Aswan. In the evening, partake in an ‘Egyptian Night’ party, with the chance to don a traditional Egyptian jellabiya – loose-fitting garments associated with the Nile Valley – and enjoy a lavish buffet of local delicacies.
Following breakfast aboard, visit the magical island of Agilika and the historic sites it holds. Marvel at the enormity of granite quarries and survey the gargantuan Unfinished Obelisk, then meander through the majestic Philae Temple Complex and study the storied walls of the Temple of Isis.
Lunch awaits back on board. This afternoon, take to the water in a traditional felucca – a unique wooden boat used along the Nile for centuries. Sweep by Elephantine Island, Aswan Botanical Gardens and the Agha Khan Mausoleum, before taking afternoon tea to the melodious sounds of an oud trio.
Mark your final evening cruising the Nile with an extravagant farewell gala dinner. White-gloved waiters and fine-dining service are accompanied by a belly dancing performance and a hypnotic whirling dervish show.
After one more buffet breakfast out on the waters of the Nile, disembark and transfer to Aswan International Airport (ASW) for your flight to Abu Simbel.
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed complex hewn entirely out of stone, Abu Simbel was constructed under the command of Ramses II – one of Egypt’s longest-ruling pharaohs – and stands as one of the most enduring symbols of Egypt. Wander through the two mighty temples, including the Great Temple of Ra-Harakhte – flanked by massive statues and dedicated to Queen Nefertari.
These magnificent temples were moved in the 1960s when the creation of Lake Nasser threatened their existence. Organised by UNESCO, the relocation of these structures remains one of the greatest feats of preservation in history.
Later, take a flight back to Cairo, where you will be transferred to your luxury hotel conveniently located in proximity to the airport. The rest of the afternoon is yours for the taking, whether you wish to explore Cairo’s vibrant street life or settle in for indulgent comfort at your accommodation.
Savour one more breakfast, then collect your luggage and depart for Cairo International Airport (CAI). Say goodbye to Egypt’s dazzling treasures and colourful culture as your journey comes to a close.
Egypt Exploration – Walk among the pharaohs and cruise along the Nile
With millennia of history and culture, magnificent monuments and widely mythologised tombs, spectacular Egypt is unlike any other destination. Ancient walls in sandy temples tell stories of the gods, while the Nile – among the longest rivers in the world – flows as a lifeline through this sun-kissed region.
True luxury awaits at the end of each day, with stays at the spectacular riverfront Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence, and a Nile cruise aboard the immaculate decks of Sanctuary Retreats’ finest vessel. Enjoy modern comforts as you seek adventure in the ancient past. With an abundance of time to explore and an expert Egyptologist guide to enrich your experience, your trip is set to be utterly unforgettable.
Update [15 January 2024, 9am AEST]: Please note that Day 6 has changed, and travellers no longer visit the Temple of Esna.
Update [29 November 2023, 4.20pm AEDT]: Date Change policy updated to 120 days.
Booking Summary: After you book, please follow the instructions in your booking summary email and ensure you complete your traveller information details in full.
7-Day Change of ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee:
Date Changes
Itinerary Amendments & Changes
Surcharges
We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.
Accommodation for the duration of your tour is included in the Tour package.
Please note:
Pre- & Post-Tour Accommodation Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be booked to extend your stay before or after your tour by contacting our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.
Luxury Escapes uses a range of accommodation partners. For pre- and post-tour accommodation options where we can offer the same hotel as the start and end of your tour, your pre- and post-tour accommodation will be booked independent of your tour. If the hotel for your tour changes, this will be independent of your pre- or post-tour accommodation booking. In this instance, change fees may apply on your pre- or post-tour accommodation, if you choose to change; change fees can be found in your ‘My Escapes.’
For pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings, you may be required to check out of your room and check in again on the first or last day of your tour. You will need to confirm these details directly with hotel.
Please contact the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
Transfers
Please Note:
Travel Insurance
Passports & Visas
Traveller Details
Tour Pace
Travel Styles
Health and Fitness Acknowledgement:
The standard tour and Sharm el Sheikh extended tour begin and end at Cairo International Airport (CAI) with roundtrip airport transfers. The Jordan extended tour ends at Queen Alia International Airport, Amman, Jordan (AMM).
Roundtrip flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. ** If your chosen tour departure date is guaranteed at the time of booking, you may be able to purchase flights immediately. If your tour departure date is not yet guaranteed (still pending minimum numbers), flights should not be booked until you receive an update on the status of your tour.**
For the standard tour, please book your flights to arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI) by evening on Day 1 and depart Cairo International Airport (CAI) any time after 10am on Day 10. For the Sharm el Sheikh or Jordan extended itinerary, please contact our dedicated Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com to assist with your flight departure from Cairo International Airport (CAI) or Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) respectively.
Roundtrip airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only.
Important: Please allow for travelling time from international countries. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive at your starting location on your chosen tour start date.
A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website, Visas Direct, to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa, please let us know and we will be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.
Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.
Important Destination Information:
Egypt
Time zone: Eastern European Standard Time +2
Telephone: +20
Currency: Egyptian Pound (LE) but USD is often accepted at tourist sites
Accessing money: ATMs are widely available, with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas. There is a shortage of small change; large bills can be difficult to break
Language: Arabic
Climate: Mild winter (November-April) and hot summer (May-October). Temperatures range between an average minimum of 14°C in winter and an average maximum of 30°C in summer.
Dress code: Conservative. It is advised to wear modest clothing that is not revealing or explicit.
Jordan
Time zone: UTC +2 (daylight saving +3)
Telephone: +962
Currency: Jordan Dinar (JOD)
Accessing money: ATMs are widely available, with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas. Changing money is quite easy: the preferred currencies are USD, GBP and EUR.
Language: Arabic
Climate: In summer (June-August) the heat can be stifling, so early or late summer visits are advisable. Autumn (September-November) and winter (December-February) are some of the best times to visit the Dead Sea, however, nights in the desert can be cold, with rainfall likely.
Dress code: Relaxed but respectful, especially when visiting religious institutions.
Optional experiences