Day 1 – Arrival in Cairo:
Upon your arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative. They will assist you and ensure a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Cairo via a private air-conditioned vehicle. The evening is yours to relax and settle in. Depending on your arrival time, you can also consider reaching out to us for tour suggestions to make the most of your time in Cairo. Rest well and prepare for an exciting journey ahead. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2 – Giza Pyramids and Cairo Museum:
Begin your day with a pickup from your Cairo hotel by our knowledgeable tour guide. Embark on a captivating excursion to the iconic Pyramids of Giza—home to the awe-inspiring structures of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus. Continue your exploration with a visit to the enigmatic Great Sphinx, a monument steeped in history. Delve into the rich past as you explore the Valley Temple.
During your time at the Pyramids, indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Giza. The adventure continues as you make your way to the Egyptian Museum, a treasure trove of over 250,000 authentic artifacts spanning millennia. Discover a remarkable exhibit dedicated to Tutankhamun, showcasing his magnificent treasures, gold, and jewelry from his resting place.
Should you desire to explore the Mummies Royal Hall, inquire with your guide about a visit to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (an additional fee applies). As you immerse yourself in history, keep in mind that the highly anticipated New Grand Museum is set to open in the near future. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Cairo.
Day 3 – Trip to the White Desert:
Early in the morning, around 6:00 am, prepare for an adventure-filled day. Pick-up from your hotel in Cairo or Giza marks the beginning of your journey to Bahariya Oasis, located approximately 350 km east of Cairo. As you travel through the captivating landscape, you’ll encounter the railways that transport iron ore deposits to the Helwan Steel Mill. At around 10:00 am, you’ll arrive at Bahariya Oasis, where your safari guide and a 4×4 Jeep await.
Embark on an exhilarating expedition that takes you through the mesmerizing Black Desert, named for its distinctive black powder-covered mountains. Enjoy a restful lunch in El Haize Oasis, where you can also unwind in a soothing hot water spring. Discover the Water Museum, showcasing the significance of underground water for desert communities.
Your journey continues to the enchanting Valley of Agabat, where you’ll immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes of the White Desert. Engage in sandboarding and explore the fascinating rock formations. As the sun sets, create lasting memories while enjoying dinner around a campfire in this surreal desert setting. Camp accommodations, including sleeping bags, tents, and mattresses, are provided for your comfort.
Day 4 – White Desert to Cairo to Aswan:
Witness the breathtaking sunrise in the desert around 6:00 am before indulging in a satisfying breakfast. At 7:00 am, you’ll commence your return journey to Bahariya Oasis. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the stunning Crystal Mountain—Gebel al-Izzaz—a hill adorned with quartzite crystals that glisten in the sunlight.
Savor the relaxing ambiance of Bir Sigam, a hot spring near Bahariya Oasis. Refresh and soak in the therapeutic waters before you set out on your drive back to Cairo. There, you’ll catch a flight to Aswan, where you’ll be transferred to your accommodation at Basma Hotel. Rest and rejuvenate, as you’ve embarked on a remarkable journey through Egypt’s captivating landscapes and historic treasures.
Day 5 – Aswan Attractions and Nile Cruise:
Your fifth day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Aswan. Get ready to explore the captivating attractions of Aswan, starting with a visit to the renowned Temple of Philae. This temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, is a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture. Construction of the temple began around 690 BC and offers a glimpse into the classical Egyptian style.
Next, you’ll embark on a delightful Felucca sailing trip around Elephantine Island. As you cruise along the tranquil waters of the Nile, soak in the picturesque scenery and enjoy the soothing atmosphere. Sail by the High Dam, a monumental structure that holds back the mighty Nile, forming Lake Nasser. Delve into history as you visit the Unfinished Obelisk, an intriguing relic that offers insight into ancient Egyptian quarrying techniques.
Lunch will be served on board the cruise at 12:00 pm. In the afternoon, around 4:00 pm, you’ll set sail on a Felucca once again, this time to explore Elphinatine Island and Lord Kitchener Island, an oasis of lush greenery in the midst of the Nile.
For those seeking a deeper cultural experience, an optional trip to the Nubian Village is available. Immerse yourself in the authentic and vibrant Nubian culture, exploring the colorful and artistic village. Feel the soul of the place as you walk its charming streets.
Dinner and overnight accommodations will be provided on board the Nile Cruise, allowing you to rest and rejuvenate for the next day’s adventures.
Day 6 – Abu Simbel and Kom Ombo:
After breakfast and lunch on board the cruise, an early morning adventure awaits as you journey to Abu Simbel. These magnificent temples, dedicated to Ramses the Second and Queen Nefertari, were meticulously carved out of the mountainside between 1274 and 1244 B.C. Marvel at the colossal statues and intricate details of these temples, a testament to ancient Egypt’s architectural prowess.
Lunch will be served on the Nile cruise as you set sail to Kom Ombo. Upon arrival, explore the unique Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the deities Sobek and Horus. This temple provides fascinating insights into the Ptolemaic and Roman periods of ancient Egypt.
Continue your journey by sailing to Edfu, where you’ll spend the night on board the cruise. Enjoy dinner and take part in a lively Galabyia Party, immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere.
Day 7 – Edfu, Luxor, and Luxor Temple:
Begin your day with breakfast on board the Nile cruise. Around 8:00 am, set out to visit the Edfu Temple, dedicated to the hawk-God Horus. This well-preserved temple showcases the myths and rituals of ancient Egypt and provides a glimpse into the Ptolemaic period.
Return to the cruise around 10:00 am and enjoy lunch as you sail towards Luxor, passing through the Esna lock. Arrive in Luxor at 6:00 pm and visit the magnificent Luxor Temple. This grand temple, built by Pharaoh Amenhotep the Third and completed by King Tutankhamun and Ramses the Second, boasts stunning architecture and rich history.
Dinner and overnight accommodations will be provided on board the cruise. For those interested, an optional trip to the Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple is available.
Day 8 – Luxor: Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple:
On this day, you have the option to start with an unforgettable experience – a Balloon Ride over the Valley of the Kings. The cost for this thrilling adventure is $80 per person.
Afterward, enjoy breakfast on the Nile cruise before disembarking to explore the fascinating sites on the West Bank of Luxor. Your journey begins at the Valley of the Kings, a majestic domain where pharaohs were laid to rest in grand stone sarcophagi, awaiting immortality. The valley, situated behind Deir el Bahri, is dominated by a pyramid-shaped mountain peak.
Next, you’ll encounter the awe-inspiring Colossi of Memnon, a massive statue rising about 18 meters from the plain. These statues are remnants of what was once the largest complex on the West Bank, built by Amenhotep the Third.
Your exploration continues at the Queen Hatshepsut Temple, an extraordinary monument rising from the desert plain in a series of terraces. The temple merges seamlessly with the limestone cliffs of Theban Mountain’s eastern face, creating a truly remarkable sight.
Conclude your Luxor adventure by visiting the renowned Karnak Temple. This complex is more than just a temple – it’s a breathtaking collection of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons, and obelisks, all dedicated to the Theban gods and the glory of Egypt’s pharaohs. Karnak Temple was of utmost importance for the worship of the Theban Triad: Amun, Mut, and Khonso.
Lunch will be served during your excursion. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Marsa Alam.
Day 9 – Marsa Alam Resort:
Enjoy a leisurely day soaking up the sun and relaxing at your resort in Marsa Alam. The resort offers a delightful atmosphere with fantastic opportunities for snorkeling. Revel in the underwater beauty and take advantage of the resort’s amenities. The welcoming staff and clean facilities will make your stay truly enjoyable.
Day 10 – Marsa Alam: Optional Trip to Sataya Reefs: Experience the natural wonders of the Red Sea by embarking on an optional trip to Sataya Reefs. Discover the protected area of Satayh Dolphin Reef, where you can snorkel and swim alongside dolphins. Marvel at the underwater marine life, observe the playful dolphins and immerse yourself in the vibrant coral reefs. The trip starts from Hamata Harbour, located 120 km south of Marsa Alam.
Day 11 – Marsa Alam: Optional Trip to Abu Dabab-Beach Snorkeling:
Spend another relaxing day at your resort in Marsa Alam. If you’re seeking more adventure, consider the optional trip to Abu Dabab. This stunning snorkeling and dive site offers coral sides teeming with colorful fish. Enjoy the sandy beach and crystal-clear, warm waters that host a variety of marine life, including green turtles and the endangered dugong. You can even opt for an extra exciting trip to spot the dugong with a speedboat from the beach.
Feel free to continue enjoying the comforts of your resort or embark on optional excursions to enhance your Marsa Alam experience.
Day 12 – Marsa Alam: Relaxation and Flight to Cairo:
Savor another day of relaxation at your tranquil resort in Marsa Alam. Unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere. Later in the day, you will board a flight to Cairo.
Day 13 – Marsa Alam: More Relaxation: Continue to indulge in relaxation at your resort in Marsa Alam. Take advantage of the resort’s amenities, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, and make the most of your leisure time.
Day 14 – Marsa Alam to Cairo: Relaxation and Overnight in Cairo:
Delight in another day of relaxation at your idyllic resort in Marsa Alam. As the day draws to a close, you will be transferred to Cairo, where you will spend the night at a comfortable hotel.
Day 15 – Old Cairo Exploration:
Embark on an enriching exploration of Old Cairo, guided by your Egyptologist tour guide. Your adventure begins at 8:00 am, with a visit to the Saladin Citadel. This historic fortress, built by Salah al-Din in 1183 AD, graces the Moqattam Hills and offers sweeping views of Cairo. Within its walls, discover a preserved collection of mosques and museums, including the iconic Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha.
Designed by the skilled Turkish architect Yousif Boushnaq, this alabaster-clad mosque stands as a striking contrast against the sandstone city. Your journey continues with a delectable lunch at a local restaurant in Old Cairo.
Explore the treasures of Old Cairo as you visit major attractions. Marvel at the Hanging Church, the Ben Ezra Synagogue, the Church of St. Barbara, and the historic Church of Abu Serga, one of Cairo’s oldest Coptic churches.
Experience the vibrant ambiance of the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, a bustling marketplace that has been a hub of trading for centuries. Navigate through its labyrinthine alleys and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.
As the day comes to an end, retreat to your comfortable accommodations in Cairo for a well-deserved overnight stay.
Day 16 – International Departure:
Conclude your remarkable journey with a transfer to Cairo Airport for your international flight. If you’re tempted to extend your stay and continue your exploration of Marsa Alam, don’t hesitate to contact us for further arrangements.
Your adventure through Egypt has been filled with incredible historical sites, natural beauty, and relaxation, leaving you with lasting memories. Safe travels on your onward journey!
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