Tour overview
Your journey begins in Cairo, where you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you’ll have time to explore the city or relax.
Visit the Egyptian Museum, home to treasures like those from King Tut’s tomb. Afterward, head to the Giza Plateau to see the pyramids and the Sphinx. Enjoy a traditional Koshary lunch before boarding an overnight train to Aswan.
In Aswan, experience the warm culture of the Nubian people. Spend a night in a Nubian village, visit Philae Temple, and take a relaxing boat ride on the Nile. Enjoy a home-cooked dinner with a local family.
Continue your journey to Luxor, where you’ll explore the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and Karnak Temple. Discover the grand Colossi of Memnon and marvel at the ancient wonders.
Next, head to Hurghada, a beautiful resort on the Red Sea. Enjoy the sun on the beach, dive into crystal-clear waters, or try optional activities like snorkeling and windsurfing. Relax and unwind after your cultural adventures.
Your tour ends back in Cairo, where you’ll have free time to explore. Visit the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, the Citadel, or Coptic Cairo. Optional tours to Saqqara and Dashur provide further insights into Egypt’s history.
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Cairo and transfer to the hotel | Cairo hotel |
| Day 2 | Visit the Pyramids & Sphinx in Giza—Egyptian Museum Visit | Sleeper Train |
| Day 3 | Arrive in Aswan and visit Philae Temple. Nubian Village experience | Aswan hotel |
| Day 4 | Sail down the River Nile on a traditional Felucca sailboat | Felucca Sailboat |
| Day 5 | Disembark Felucca and visit Edfu Temple. Drive to Luxor | Luxor hotel |
| Day 6 | Visits to Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatchepsut. Afternoon visit Karnak Temple | Luxor hotel |
| Day 7 | Leave Luxor and Drive to the Red Sea resort of Hurghada | Hurghada Resort |
| Day 8 | Enjoy the Red Sea in Hurghada; optional excursions available | Cairo hotel |
| Day 9 | Drive to Cairo, optional Khan-el-Khalili Bazaar visit | Cairo hotel |
| Day 10 | Cairo, free time, departure airport transfer | N/A |
Highlights
- Delve into the history of Egypt with an Egyptologist
- Snap a picture of the iconic Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza
- Sleep on the deck of a traditional Nile felucca
- Enjoy a traditional meal in a colorful Nubian village
- Swim, scuba dive, and snorkel in the Red Sea
Day 1: Arrive into Cairo and transfer to hotel
Upon arrival our staff will meet you at the airport, assist you with obtaining your visa and luggage, and then transfer you to your hotel for the start of your trip. They will help you settle in, introduce you to the local area, and explain tomorrow's arrangements. The rest of the day is free. If you arrive early you may like to take an evening dinner cruise on the Nile, or enjoy a spectacular sound and light show at the pyramids (both available to book locally on arrival). OVERNIGHT:. Cairo hotel. MEALS:. None.
Day 2: Visit the Pyramids & Sphinx in Giza - Egyptian Museum Visit (B/D)
Our Nubian Adventure begins with a visit to the renowned Egyptian Museum in the heart of Cairo's Tahrir Square. Immerse yourself in the wonders of ancient Egypt as you explore the Tutankhamun exhibit and countless other fascinating artifacts. Our expert Egyptologist guide will accompany you throughout your visit, sharing their wealth of knowledge and passion for Egyptian history and culture. Next, prepare to be awestruck by the iconic pyramids of Giza. Marvel at the Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops), a monumental structure standing tall at 500 feet and spanning 750 feet at its base. Constructed with massive stone blocks and adorned with a hard limestone casing, this architectural masterpiece will leave you speachless. Alongside the Great Pyramid, admire the smaller yet equally impressive pyramids of Khafre (Chephren) and Menkaure (Mycerinus). You'll even have the chance to venture inside the pyramids (limited tickets available for the Great Pyramid) for an unforgettable experience. Between these captivating visits, savour a delicious Koshary lunch. This traditional Egyptian dish is a culinary delight, featuring a medley of rice, lentils, macaroni, chickpeas, and a tangy tomato sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. It's a true feast for the senses and a perfect representation of Egypt's rich culinary heritage. As the day draws to a close, we'll transfer to the station for an overnight sleeper train to Aswan. The journey takes around 12 hours and you'll be accommodated in a twin birth cabin, where an airline style dinner and breakfast will also be served. OVERNIGHT:. Sleeper Train Cabin. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 3: Arrive in Aswan and visit Philae Temple. Nubian Village experience (B/D)
After our night onboard the sleeper train, we arrive in Aswan, a city steeped in ancient Nubian history. The Nubian people have inhabited this region for millennia, their culture intertwined with the Nile. We'll be spending the night immersed in this vibrant culture, staying in a Nubian style hotel within a Nubian village. Get ready to be charmed by the brightly painted houses, adorned with symbolic patterns and vibrant colours, and explore the bustling local markets where you can find handcrafted souvenirs and spices. Before heading to the Nubian villages, we'll embark on a boat trip to the breathtaking Philae Temple. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, this temple complex was once threatened by the rising waters of Lake Nasser. Thankfully, it was carefully dismantled and relocated to its current island location, preserving its beauty for generations to come. Following our visit to Philae Temple, we delve deeper into Nubian culture. We'll journey south of Aswan to a traditional Nubian village, where we'll have the unique opportunity to experience the local way of life firsthand. We'll wander through the village, visit the homes of Nubian families, and learn about their customs and traditions. In the evening, we'll share a delicious home-cooked dinner with a Nubian family, savouring traditional dishes and enjoying their warm hospitality. We'll then spend the night in a Nubian-style hotel, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the peaceful rhythm of village life. OVERNIGHT:. Aswan - hotel. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 4: Sail down the River Nile on a traditional Felucca sailboat (B/L/D)
Those seeking an awe-inspiring adventure can rise early for an optional excursion to Abu Simbel. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts two magnificent temples carved into the mountainside by Ramses II. These monumental structures, adorned with colossal statues and intricate reliefs, are a testament to the grandeur of ancient Egypt and a definite highlight of any trip. At lunchtime, we embark on a quintessential Egyptian adventure: a felucca sailing trip down the Nile. These traditional wooden sailboats offer a unique perspective of the river, allowing you to witness the beauty of the Nile and observe rural Egyptian life unfold along its banks. Our Nubian crew will expertly navigate the felucca, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable journey. They'll also entertain you with their local knowledge and prepare meals onboard. For your comfort and convenience, a separate facilities boat will accompany us, providing essential amenities such as toilets, showers, and a hygienic kitchen. In the evening, we'll moor along the riverbank and enjoy a dinner prepared by our crew. As the stars twinkle overhead, we'll settle down for a magical night's sleep on deck, under the vast expanse of the Egyptian sky (mattresses, blankets, and mosquito nets are provided). Should you prefer a more conventional overnight stay, you have the option to upgrade your felucca experience and spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Aswan. You'll then rejoin the group the following morning when the felucca reaches Kom Ombo. This upgrade won't affect the rest of your itinerary. OVERNIGHT:. Felucca Sailboat. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch.
Day 5: Disembark Felucca and visit Edfu Temple. Drive to Luxor and visit Luxor Temple by Night (B)
After breakfast onboard our felucca, we bid farewell to our Nubian crew and continue our journey north by road. Our first stop is Edfu, home to the impressive Temple of Horus. Dedicated to the falcon-headed god, this remarkably well-preserved temple is one of the largest and most complete in Egypt. We'll have time to explore its towering pylons, hypostyle halls, and intricate reliefs, immersing ourselves in the mythology and grandeur of ancient Egyptian religion. From Edfu, we continue northwards to the legendary city of Luxor. Built upon the ancient site of Thebes, Luxor boasts an unparalleled concentration of historical wonders. Often referred to as the world's greatest open-air museum, it's divided by the Nile into two distinct areas: the East Bank, with its vibrant city life and magnificent temples, and the West Bank, a necropolis of royal tombs and mortuary temples. This evening, we have a special treat in store: a guided tour of Luxor Temple at night. Situated in the heart of the modern city, this beautifully illuminated temple offers a magical experience after dark. Our guide will bring the temple's history to life, revealing its secrets and explaining its significance as a centre of worship for centuries.
OVERNIGHT:. Luxor hotel. MEALS:. Breakfast.
Day 6:: Visits to Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatchepsut. Afternoon visit Karnak Temple
This morning, we embark on a journey to the West Bank of Luxor, a realm steeped in ancient history and shrouded in the mystique of pharaohs and their eternal resting places. Our exploration begins with a visit to the Valley of the Kings, a vast necropolis where generations of pharaohs were laid to rest in elaborately decorated tombs. We'll venture into several of these tombs, marvelling at the vibrant hieroglyphs and intricate paintings that adorn their walls. These ancient chambers continue to reveal their secrets to archaeologists, making the Valley of the Kings one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Our West Bank adventure continues with a visit to Deir el-Medina, a fascinating village that was once home to the skilled artisans who constructed and decorated the royal tombs. We'll explore the remains of this ancient community, gaining insights into the lives of the workers and their families. Next, we'll be captivated by the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a unique mortuary temple built into the cliffs. Its elegant colonnades and terraces offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. And no visit to the West Bank would be complete without encountering the Colossi of Memnon, two colossal statues that have stood guard over the Theban necropolis for millennia. In the afternoon, we cross back to the East Bank to explore the sprawling complex of Karnak Temple. Dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, Karnak is a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture. We'll wander through its vast courtyards, admire its towering columns, and decipher the intricate carvings that adorn its walls. Our guide will unravel the temple's complex history, revealing its secrets and explaining its significance as a religious and cultural centre for over 2,000 years. For those seeking an unforgettable experience, an optional hot air balloon flight over the West Bank is available this morning. Imagine soaring above the Valley of the Kings, the temples, and the Nile as the sun rises, painting the landscape in golden hues. It's a truly magical way to witness the grandeur of Luxor from a unique perspective (expect an early start to catch the sunrise).
OVERNIGHT:. Luxor hotel. MEALS:. Breakfast.
Day 7: Leave Luxor and Drive to the Red Sea resort of Hurghada
This morning, we bid farewell to the Nile and embark on a scenic journey eastward towards the glistening shores of the Red Sea. Our destination is Hurghada, a vibrant resort town renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkelling opportunities. Upon arrival, we'll check into our 5-star resort, a haven of comfort and relaxation. Prepare to be pampered with exceptional amenities and impeccable service. Your stay here is on a 'soft all-inclusive' basis, meaning that all your meals, soft drinks, and snacks are included throughout your stay. Indulge in delicious buffets, savour snacks by the pool, and quench your thirst with refreshing beverages – all without worrying about extra costs. (Alcoholic beverages are not included in the soft all-inclusive package.). The resort offers a wealth of facilities to enhance your stay. Take a refreshing dip in the sparkling swimming pool, unwind on the sun-drenched terrace, or stroll along the pristine beach. For those seeking active pursuits, there are opportunities for water sports, beach volleyball, and other activities. Or perhaps you'd prefer to pamper yourself with a rejuvenating treatment at the spa. The choice is yours!. With its idyllic setting, luxurious amenities, and convenient all-inclusive package, your stay in Hurghada promises to be a relaxing and rejuvenating escape.
OVERNIGHT:. Hurghada Resort. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 8: Enjoy the Red Sea in Hurghada, optional excursions available (B/L/D)
Today is yours to savour the delights of the Red Sea. Relax on the pristine beach, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Hurghada is renowned worldwide for its exceptional diving and snorkelling, and the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life attract enthusiasts from across the globe. If you're feeling adventurous, a plethora of activities awaits. Glide across the waves with windsurfing or kitesurfing, explore the underwater world in a glass-bottomed submarine, embark on a thrilling quad biking adventure in the desert, enjoy a leisurely camel ride along the shore, or try your luck at a spot of sea fishing. Our local representative in Hurghada will be happy to assist you with arranging any of these exciting excursions. For those who prefer to stay closer to shore, Hurghada offers a charming marina and an atmospheric old town to explore. Wander through the bustling streets, browse the local shops, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this seaside town
OVERNIGHT:. Hurghada Resort. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch.
Day 9: Drive to Cairo, optional Khan-el-Khalili Bazaar visit (B)
We drive back to Cairo this morning (approx.. 5hrs) and check into our hotel. An upgrade to an internal flight is also available on request. In the afternoon there is the option to take a guided walk through the back streets and bazaars in central Cairo. We'll walk through the huge Bab al-Futuh gateway and explore streets dedicated to metalwork, spices, pottery, fabric, jewellery and anything else you can imagine as we gradually enter the more touristy Khan-el-Khalili bazaar. We'll have time for a break to try some tea and a shisha pipe and perhaps enjoy an early dinner of Egypt's unofficial national dish, Kushari before returning to our hotel.
OVERNIGHT:. Cairo hotel. MEALS:. Breakfast.
Day 10: Cairo, free time, departure airport transfer (B)
Your time is free today for some last minute sightseeing or shopping until we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. If you have an afternoon or evening flight departure, then a half-day tour of Coptic Cairo and the Citadel is available today, or you could take another half-day tour to learn more about the evolution of pyramid building at Saqqara, Dashour & Memphis. tours are also available today. Alternatively you can add extra nights to your time in Cairo which would allow you to take a day trip to the colonial city of Alexandria on the Mediterranean coast, or a trip into the desert outside Cairo to see the World Heritage Site of the Valley of the Whales at Wadi Rayan. OVERNIGHT:. N/A. MEALS:. Breakfast.
