Day 1: Overnight Flight
Step back in time and explore thousands of years of history, legend and lore as you view Egypt’s timeless wonders.
Day 2: Cairo, Egypt - Tour Begins
Begin your journey in Cairo, an ancient city with an intriguing past.
Day 3: Cairo - Giza - Sakkara - Memphis – Cairo
Fulfill a lifelong dream! This morning we travel to nearby Giza where we’ll meet a local archaeologist who will lead us on a visit to the Pyramids of Giza, one of the seven ancient wonders of the world. Marvel at the iconic Great Sphinx, one of the oldest and largest monuments in the world. This afternoon, travel south to Sakkara. Explore the site of ancient Memphis, home to a nearly 40-foot statue of Ramses II, and stand before the oldest of all pyramids, the Step Pyramid. This evening, enjoy a special welcome dinner overlooking the banks of the Nile.
Day 4: Cairo – Luxor
Spend the morning discovering the remarkable collections of the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities. See the statues, reliefs, sarcophagi and the treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun himself. Later, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Luxor.
Day 5: Luxor
Travel thousands of years into the past. Cross over to the West Bank of the Nile to begin your day in ancient Thebes. Explore its remarkable sights – the Valley of the Kings and Queens, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir El Bahari, and the Colossi of Mennon. This afternoon, return to the East Bank and behold the Luxor Temple, a creation of kings Amenhotep III and Ramses II.
Day 6: Luxor - Board Cruise Ship
We return to the West Bank this morning and head to the tombs in the Valley of Nobles and the well-preserved temple complex of Medinet Habu. This afternoon, board your cruise ship and begin your adventure on the Nile River. This evening, enjoy the sound and light show at the Karnak Temple.
Day 7: Luxor - Esna – Edfu
This morning, explore the expansive Karnak Temple, dating back to 2000 B.C. Then we begin our sail down the Nile towards Esna on your way to Edfu. This evening, dress up and join the fun during a traditional galabaya party.
Day 8: Edfu - Kom Ombo – Aswan
Step into another world at the well-preserved Temple of Horus at Edfu. Peruse the endless carvings of scenes depicting the power and grandeur of the pharaohs. After lunch,set sail for Kom Ombo and continue to Aswan, the Nubian City. Following dinner, enjoy a folkloric show featuring a belly dancing performance.
Day 9: Aswan
Discover the Philae Temple. Relocated and preserved by a special UNESCO project, this structure remains an architectural wonder. Later, enjoy a free afternoon to explore Aswan.
Day 10: Aswan - Disembark Cruise Ship - Abu Simbel Optional Tour
Disembark the ship this morning in Aswan. You may choose to partake in an optional tour to Abu Simbel* and see the extraordinary temples of Ramses II relocated here during the construction of the High Dam. The choice is yours! You may choose to board a felucca (wooden sail boat) and sail to the lush oasis of Kitchener Island for a short stroll through the botanical garden. Or, perhaps you would prefer to experience Nubian culture past and present during a visit to a fascinating museum.
Day 11: Aswan – Cairo
Return to Cairo. After our flight, the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 12: Cairo
Venture to the Citadel, a medieval fortification resting on a hill overlooking the city. It’s the perfect place to take in grand views. Learn about the city’s rich history on a walking tour of Old Cairo before enjoying some free time to shop in the world-famous souk of Khan el Khalil. Perhaps you’ll stop for a traditional cup of tea. Join your fellow travelers this evening for a farewell dinner.
Day 13: Cairo - Tour Ends
Your epic adventure comes to a close today. Return home with a new understanding of this mystical land.