Please note: The Single Room price displayed above is for a single room in conjunction with other travellers. A solo traveller price is available on request.
***Special Offer on Deluxe Class Package***
Travel 08 January 2025 - 30 April 2025
SAVE $2,000 per couple, share twin
Book by 31 January 2025
T's & C's apply
Bespoke Holiday with 7 Night Nile Cruise
12 Days ex Cairo
12 Days ex Cairo
Preferred Departure Day:
Deluxe: Saturday
Deluxe: Saturday
Notes:
- Cruise itinerary featured is based on the Movenpick Royal Lily Deluxe Class cruise ship. The day-by-day Nile Cruise itinerary may vary according to the cruise boat confirmed.
- Supplement may apply for tours commencing on other days
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day deluxe Egypt holiday, immersing yourself in the wonders of this ancient land. Commence your adventure with a two-night stay in the Pyramids area, indulging in the awe-inspiring views of these ancient wonders. Discover the mysteries of Cairo with your private Egyptologist guide and luxuriate in a seven-night voyage aboard a deluxe Nile Cruise ship, providing ample time for an unhurried exploration of the majestic landscapes and historical treasures along the iconic River Nile. Conclude this extraordinary journey with two nights in the heart of Cairo's downtown area, ensuring a perfect blend of luxury, cultural immersion, and relaxation.
Highlights:
- A warm welcome with a personal meet and assist inside immigration, together with your Egyptian visa on arrival, followed by express immigration assistance
- 24/7 service and full local backup from our seven regional offices throughout Egypt
- Behold the incomparable Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx
- Immerse yourself in the ancient allure of Memphis and the enduring monuments of Sakkara
- Indulge in a leisurely exploration of the Nile during a deluxe 7-night Nile Cruise, offering a perfect blend of ample time for exploration and relaxation aboard
- Delve into the hidden treasures of the magnificent temples of Luxor and Karnak, as well as the Valley of the Kings and Queens with bonus entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI
- Explore Denderah's Temple of Hathor and Abydos' Temple of Seti I's carvings
- Explore Coptic Cairo's ancient churches, Al-Moez Street's historic Islamic architecture, and wader through the vibrant Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
- Discover ancient treasures at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Cairo (B)
Welcome to Egypt. On arrival at Cairo Airport, you will be welcomed by our local Airport representative PRIOR to immigration who will assist you with your included Egyptian Visa. Your special fast track immigration service ensures priority access. After immigration clearance, you will be assisted with your luggage collection and customs control by our local team, then transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in the Pyramids area. You will be assisted with your hotel check-in then have the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight Cairo.
Day 2: Cairo (B)
A day to remember! Meet your private Egyptologist guide who will unlock the secrets of the ancient capital on this full day tour.
Begin your day with a visit to the impressive site of the Pyramids whose construction began in 2690 BC. The Pyramids of Mycerinus, Chefren and the Great Pyramid of Cheops are the only survivors from the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Face the mystical Sphinx, reputedly used as target practice by Napoleon’s troops.
Optional (supplement applies): Take a Camel Ride across the sands of the desert with the Pyramids in the background.
A reservation is included for lunch (own expense) at the 9 Pyramids Lounge with stunning views overlooking the ancient Pyramids of Giza. This is a unique dining experience, unlike anything else in the world (payment for lunch to be made locally at the restaurant). View the 9 Pyramids Lounge Facebook Page for more details: https://www.facebook.com/9PyramidsLounge
After regathering your thoughts travel with your driver cross country to the ancient capital of Memphis, then continue to visit the original pyramids at Sakkara – the oldest surviving Egyptian pyramid. This most ancient of pyramids was the first to be built in ancient Egypt, preceding those at Giza by many centuries. Essentially a sequence of decreasingly sized mastaba placed atop each other, this architectural advance of raising tombs closer to the heavens ultimately led to the creation of the Great Pyramids of Giza. Overnight Cairo.
Optional Tour (supplement applies): Top off an unforgettable day with an incredible evening attending the Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids
Day 3: Cairo - Luxor (BLD)
This morning you will be met at your hotel and transferred by private vehicle to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor. On arrival in Luxor transfer to your cruise boat moored on the banks of the life-giving Nile. Lunch is served on board. In the afternoon head out to explore one of the world’s most remarkable open-air museums - Thebes. Visit the magnificent Luxor Temple then follow the Avenue of the Sphinx to the Temple complex of Karnak. This gigantic site was added to by approximately 30 different Pharaohs over time, which goes some way to explaining its immense size and majestic grandeur. Dinner on board. Overnight Luxor.
Day 4: Luxor - Esna - Edfu (BLD)
Early this morning you will embark on a journey across the Nile to the West Bank, where a morning filled with remarkable sights awaits. Visit Thebes Necropolis and the burial ground of the Pharaohs – the Valley of the Kings, which houses the tombs of Theban Ruler’s, including the illustrious tomb of Tutankhamun. Next pay a visit to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and see the famed Colossi of Memnon facing the Nile.
Innovative Bonus: Entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI included
Return to your cruise ship and set sail for Edfu crossing the Esna lock. This evening attend the Captain’s Welcome Reception Cocktail Party, followed by dinner. Overnight Edfu.
Note: Whilst crossing through the Esna Lock, entrepreneurial local families arrive by boat and cheerfully throw various handmade local ware up to the boat for inspection. We encourage our clients to support this local initiative, a key form of income for local families.
Day 5: Edfu – Kom Ombo - Aswan (BLD)
Following an early breakfast, you will set out to view remains dating back to the Old Kingdom, as well as the revered Temple of Horus – one of the holiest of the Egyptian pantheon of gods. Return to the ship and continue sailing to Kom Ombo. After lunch on board head out to visit the Kom Ombo Temple. This remarkable temple was jointly shared by the two Gods: Sobek, depicted with the head of a crocodile, and Horus, represented with the head of a falcon. It was constructed during the Ptolemaic period, spanning from 237 to 57 BCE. Admire the beautifully preserved murals and intricate bas-relief, adorned with inscriptions that offer valuable insights into language, mythology, and religion during the Egypt's Greco-Roman era. Continue sailing to Aswan with dinner on board followed by an Oriental Show “Galabeya party”. Overnight Aswan.
Day 6: Aswan (BLD)
After breakfast visit the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk and the beautifully restored Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis (the mother of Horus). This remarkable temple was rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser at the time of the High Dam’s construction. Return for a leisurely lunch on board your cruise ship before setting off mid-afternoon to sail by traditional felucca around Kitchener’s Island. This evening dinner and a Nubian folkloric show on board. Overnight Aswan.
Day 7: Aswan (BLD)
Day at leisure in Aswan. Overnight Aswan
Optional (surcharge applies): Abu Simbel Tour
Very early this morning transfer to the airport and fly to Abu Simbel. On arrival transfer to the entrance from here walk into this amazing complex to view the magnificent Temples of Ramses II. These celebrate this mighty Pharaoh often regarded as the greatest of all the pharaohs (also known as Ozymandias by the ancient Greeks) and Queen Nefertari a famed Queen and diplomat in her own right. Marvel at the amazing engineering that saved the temples from a watery grave below Lake Nasser. At the conclusion of your tour walk to the exit for your airport transfer and flight to Aswan. Return to your Nile cruise boat for dinner and overnight in Aswan.
Day 8: Aswan - Kom Ombo - Edfu - Esna - Luxor (BLD)
This morning sail to Kom Ombo with the opportunity to re-visit the Temple dedicated to the two gods Sobek and Horus. Return to the ship with lunch on board while you sail on to Edfu. Set out to view remains dating back to the Old Kingdom, as well as the revered Temple of Horus – one of the holiest of the Egyptian pantheon of gods. Return to the ship with afternoon tea on board while you sail to Luxor via Esna. Dinner on board followed by an Oriental show and Galabia party. Overnight Luxor.
Day 9: Luxor - Denderah and Abydos - Luxor (BLD)
Visit Denderah to explore the well-preserved Temple of Hathor, known for its stunning reliefs and astronomical ceiling. Then, head to Abydos to see the Temple of Seti I, famous for its detailed carvings and the ancient Osireion. Both sites offer a glimpse into Egypt's rich pharaonic history and religious significance. Return to the cruise ship with dinner on board followed by a belly dance show this evening. Overnight Luxor.
Day 10: Luxor - Cairo (B)
Disembark from your cruise this morning after breakfast. You will be met and transferred by private vehicle to Luxor airport for your flight to Cairo, a modern cosmopolitan capital with a rich heritage of cultural influences and echoes of ancient civilisations. On arrival at Cairo Airport, you will be met and transferred to your city hotel.
This afternoon meet with your private Egyptologist-Guide and embark on a captivating visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), one of the largest and most comprehensive archaeological museums in the world located near the Pyramids. Spanning over 5,000 years of history, this museum boasts an extraordinary collection of artifacts that trace the rich cultural heritage of Egypt inspired by the boy King Tutankhamun. Currently in its "second soft-opening phase," the GEM has unveiled 12 of its main galleries, offering a glimpse into its vast treasures. As you step inside, you’ll be welcomed by the imposing figure of Ramses II, a colossal statue that has been relocated from Tahrir Square and now stands proudly in the museum’s grand foyer. From here, you'll journey through the newly opened galleries, where over 15,000 meticulously curated artifacts are displayed. These exhibits span millennia, showcasing the incredible achievements of ancient Egyptian civilization, from its earliest dynasties to the grandeur of its later empires. With each step, you'll delve deeper into the stories of pharaohs, gods, and everyday life, uncovering the mysteries and marvels of one of the world's oldest and most influential cultures. (The GEM also has a shopping complex and cafes).
Note: Access to the Tutankhamun galleries is restricted until the official opening
Note: Access to the Tutankhamun galleries is restricted until the official opening
OPTION: For those interested in visiting the National Museum of Ancient Civilisations this can be visited in place of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).
Day 11: Cairo (B)
Meet your private Egyptologist guide and embark on an enriching journey through Egypt's rich history. Discover Coptic Cairo, where you will visit the famous Coptic Museum, built on the site of the ancient Roman fortress of Babylon, constructed about 30BC. Inside the fortress are several Coptic churches and the richest collection of Coptic art in the world. Additionally, visit Ben Ezra Synagogue, nestled within a pleasant shady garden in the centre of Cairo, housing several artefacts including the manuscript known as the ‘Atlas of Moses’.
After a break for lunch (own arrangements), walk through Old Cairo with your guide. Start at Bab al-Futuh and stroll through al-Moez Street visiting and viewing the magnificent Islamic architectural heritage including mausoleums, mosques, sabils (fountains), and medieval houses dating back to the Fatimid and Mamluk periods. If you wish, take a moment to reenergize with a refreshing beverage at Fishawy Café, an optional stop amidst the bustling Khan El Khalili bazaar.
Day 12: Cairo (B)
This morning you will be transferred by private vehice to Cairo Airport for your onward flight.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
-
Fast Track meet and assistance prior to immigration at Cairo Airport
- Egyptian visa for US, Canadian, New Zealand, Australian and UK passport holders
- Airport departure assistance
- 24/7 service and full local backup from our seven regional offices throughout Egypt
- 4 nights’ accommodation in hotels specified with private facilities
- Daily breakfasts at hotels
- 7-night Nile Cruise on full board basis
- Private transfers in air-conditioned transportation
- Economy Class domestic flights Cairo/Luxor and Luxor/Cairo
- Private sightseeing in Cairo with English-speaking Egyptologist guide
- Group sightseeing on Nile Cruise with English-speaking Egyptologist guide
- Bonus entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI
- Entrance fees
- Egypt Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares
- Optional tours and excursions
- Porterage
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Departure taxes
- Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
- Egyptian Visa for non US, Canadian, New Zealand, Australian and UK Passport holders
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
NOTES:
- Cruise itineraries may be changed without notice due to river flows, local or other conditions and these changes are beyond the responsibility of Innovative Travel or our local operators.
Accommodation based on the following (or similar):
Cairo Pyramids Area
Deluxe Class: Hyatt Regency Cairo West - Pyramids view Room
7 Nights Deluxe Nile Cruise Luxor / Luxor
Deluxe Class: Movenpick MS Royal Lily or Movenpick MS Royal Lotus
Cairo City
Deluxe Class: Cairo Sheraton - City View Room
Cruising the Nile
Please use cruise itineraries as a guideline only. The order of sightseeing and overnight destinations may vary and are subject to change due to the operation of Esna Lock, or at the discretion of the cruise company. Should a change of boat be required due to any unforeseen circumstances prior to departure, an alternative of the same standard or better will be offered if available.
There are many river boats that cruise between Luxor and Aswan. They provide accommodation and transportation for the majority of tourists travelling to Egypt. Each night and whilst moored for sightseeing, it is common for 4-5 cruise boats to be parked abreast of each other. The location of your boat will vary from port to port however in many cases your view from your cabin will be restricted to cruising periods only.
Sightseeing on Nile Cruise boats is operated by the cruise company. You will be allocated an English-speaking guide and small group of other English-speaking tourists for sightseeing upon embarkation. The order of sightseeing may vary depending on the local port authorities. If a tomb or temple is unable to be visited an alternative will be provided where possible.
Sightseeing (non-cruise)
All sightseeing unless specified is on a private basis with a driver and guide. Sightseeing generally takes place in the cooler periods of the day i.e. early morning or late afternoon therefore on occasion some early starts may be necessary to avoid the heat
Valley of the Kings
Not all the tombs within the Valley are currently open to the public. Many are closed periodically for resting and renovation. Entrance fees to three tombs is included in cruise packages.
Ramadan
During the Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking & smoking during daylight hours (approx. 7am-6.30pm). As a sign of respect, tourists should also try to refrain eating in public during the fasting hours. Restaurants and Cafes in Hotels and Cruise boats will be open, however limited alcohol may be available over this time. In 2025, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Friday 28th February. After 30 days, or on sighting the full moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated & most public and private institutions close for at least three days.
Domestic Flights in Egypt
Flight times will be reconfirmed by the local operator upon arrival in Egypt.
Note: Flights from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor generally involve early morning starts due to flight schedules in the summer season. For flights to Abu Simbel certain flights are allocated to clients travelling for day trips from Cairo and overnight programmes. These flights are set by Egypt air and are outside of the operator’s control.
Dress Code
Modest dress is required for entrance to holy sites. Women – long skirt or long pants with shoulders and arms covered with a full cover head scarf to enter holy sites.
Hotels
Hotels in regional areas (i.e. Abu Simbel / Siwa / St Catherine) can be of a lower standard than the properties in the main tourist centres, with more basic/less developed infrastructure due to location and surrounding conditions. The options chosen are the best available.
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
