Destinations: Nile River Valley, Aswan, Cairo, Luxor
Destinations: Sharm El Sheikh
Cairo, Luxor, Nile River Valley, Aswan
Sift through the sands of ancient Egypt and glide along the glistening Nile on this spectacular highlights tour. Witness the majesty of the pharaohs and uncover their sprawling kingdom from lively Cairo and cruise down the Nile River. Stand in 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 countless pharaohs’ tombs. Brush up on historic artefacts with your expert Egyptologist guide and unearth the treasures of Tutankhamun at the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum. Experience sunrise and sunset over idyllic waters and sands that have seen centuries of human history.
Travel in absolute ease with private airport transfers, internal flights and an air-conditioned coach to take you between Egypt’s most renowned destinations. From the feet of the Sphinx to the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo, this is your ticket to timeless adventure.
Superior Upgrade: Select the Superior Package during checkout for upgraded accommodation throughout the tour.
Cairo, Luxor, Nile River Valley, Aswan
Destinations: Nile River Valley, Aswan, Cairo, Luxor
Destinations: Sharm El Sheikh
Ahlan wa sahlan! The grandeur and glory of Egypt await as you arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI). Steeped in ancient mystery and buzzing with vibrant modernity, 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.
After being assisted through airport arrivals by an on-ground representative, take your private transfer to the stately Fairmont Nile City, situated on the banks of the Nile, with sweeping views all the way to the distant pyramids. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure before an elegant set welcome dinner with your touring party, including a complimentary glass of wine or beer.
Today, experience one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, with a full day dedicated to the extraordinary pyramids.
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 set between the Sphinx’s great paws.
Enjoy a lunch of traditional Egyptian cuisine at 9 Pyramids Lounge and relax in Bedouin-style seating overlooking the spectacular pyramids of Giza.
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 Pharaoh Djoser, the oldest known pyramid in Egypt and the world’s first freestanding stone structure.
Round out your dig through history in 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 lending it a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Later, return to Cairo for another evening spent in Egypt’s vibrant capital.
After a delicious buffet breakfast, meet with your tour guide for a guided exploration of this storied city.
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 the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza – a cutting-edge collection of archaeological gems from this historic region, housed in one of the largest museum complexes in the world. Uncover thousands of Tutankhamun’s treasured relics and piece together a complex picture of ancient Egypt in the halls of this long-awaited archival project.
Enjoy lunch in the manicured Al-Azhar Park, then continue to Al-Muizz Street in Cairo’s Old Town. Built in the 10th century BCE, this monument-lined street takes its name from the founder of Cairo himself and offers a glimpse at the city’s Islamic history. Continue to the bustling brightness of Khan el-Khalili, a renowned bazaar dating back over 1,000 years. Peruse the wares of the innumerable shopfronts, then take your transfer back to your hotel for the evening.
Gather your energy with a delicious breakfast before being transferred to Cairo Airport (CAI) for your included flight to Luxor (LXR), formerly known as Thebes. Often described as the world’s greatest open-air museum, Luxor is a true archaeological wonderland.
On arrival, visit the expansive Karnak Temple Complex and explore the great Temple of Amun-Re. Walk the remnants of much-fabled ancient Thebes through the Avenue of Sphinxes, then check in for your elegant Nile River cruise and savour a refreshing lunch aboard.
Later, disembark once more for a tour of the remarkable Luxor Temple, near-perfectly preserved and dramatically lit against the desert night. As evening falls, retire to your cabin or recline beneath the stars on deck as you drift lazily along the Nile.
Travel time: Flight – approx. one hour
Today, set out to explore the West Bank of Luxor and uncover the mysterious Valley of the Kings. Witness the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI, as well as the beautifully decorated tomb of Seti I. Majestic and meticulously constructed, the tombs of the pharaohs have fascinated archaeologists for over a hundred years, remaining an integral part of Egypt’s millennia-old history.
Be drawn to the mesmerising Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, set low against the surrounding cliffs. Later, pass the famed Colossi of Memnon, built to depict King Amenhotep III in a resting position and known for the mournful sounds they’re rumoured to make at dawn.
Back aboard, indulge in a well-earned lunch as you sail onward to new wonders.
After breakfast, spend the morning exploring Egypt’s largest and best-preserved Pharaonic temple – the Temple of 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.
Continue to the ancient agricultural settlement of Kom Ombo, situated at a bend in the river where sacred crocodiles once basked in the sun. Central to Kom Ombo is the unique double temple, dedicated to both Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility, and Haroeris, the falcon god of the sky. Wonder at the detailed inscriptions throughout the remains, then return to your vessel to spend the rest of the evening at leisure.
Following breakfast onboard, set out to explore fantastical Aswan. Witness the enormity of the Aswan High Dam, constructed with support from UNESCO to help protect the ancient monuments in danger of flooding. Visit the island of Agilika for a glimpse at its countless historic sites, painstakingly relocated during the construction of the nearby dam.
Survey the gargantuan Unfinished Obelisk and learn of its abandoned fate, then meander through the majestic Philae Temple Complex to study the walls of the Temple of Isis.
Return to your elegant cruiser for a refreshing lunch, then spend the rest of your afternoon freely, perhaps choosing to join an optional tour of the many surrounding wonders.
After one more breakfast – and the chance to join an optional trip to the jaw-dropping Abu Simbel – it’s time to take your flight back to Cairo, where you’ll transfer to your hotel at the edge of the Nile.
The rest of the day is yours for the taking.
Travel time: Flight – approx. one hour
Bid farewell to enchanting Egypt and transfer to Cairo International Airport (CAI), where your ancient adventure comes to a close.
The Nile, a lifeline coursing through sun-kissed Egypt, is among the world’s longest rivers. During five days gliding along its shimmering surface, you’ll uncover ancient marvels like the Valley of the Kings. Behold the resplendent Luxor Temple, glowing against desert nights, and explore Luxor’s West Bank where the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI hold timeless allure. The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, nestled against cliffs, and the evocative Colossi of Memnon beckon. Unveil Aswan’s wonders – the Aswan High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk and the captivating Philae Temple Complex. Discover how this river overflows with abundant discoveries and rich, ancient history.
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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 the hotel.
Please contact the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
Update 3 July 2024 10.53AM AEST: Important information updated to add to Grand Egyptian Museum note: ‘Prior to the museum being opened, your tour will include a visit to the Egyptian Museum Cairo (EMC) instead.’
Transfers
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Travel Insurance
Passports & Visas
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Health and Fitness Acknowledgement:
Your tour begins and ends at Cairo International Airport (CAI) with return airport transfers.
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.**
Please book your flights to arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI) by 5pm on Day 1 and depart at any time on Day 9. If extending in Sharm El Sheik with included domestic flight back to Cairo International Airport (CAI) on Day 12 please do not book flights out of Cairo until after midday on this day.
Return airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only, unless your pre/post tour accommodation is booked directly with Luxury Escapes at the same start/end hotel. In this instance transfers are included at no extra cost on the first and last day or your stay.
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.
(optional) (optional) 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: GMT+2 (Eastern European Standard Time)
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: Relaxed but respectful, especially when visiting religious institutions.
Optional experiences