A day to remember! Meet your private Egyptologist guide and embark on a full day sightseeing tour of the Pyramids, Sphinx and the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).
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

This afternoon, 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

Option: For those interested in visiting Memphis and Sakkara, this option can be included in place of the visit to the GEM. Alternatively, you may like to extend your stay in Cairo to allow time to include visits to both of these incredible sites.

Optional Tour (supplement applies): Top off an unforgettable day with an incredible evening attending the Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids

Early this morning transfer by private vehicle to Cairo airport for your flight to Abu Simbel. On arrival at Abu Simbel Airport, you will be transferred to the entrance to the site. From here walk into this amazing complex and marvel at 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.  

Afternoon at leisure. This evening attend the renowned Sound and Light show where vivid lights and dramatic narratives bring the ancient temples to life. The show illuminates the history of Ramses II and Nefertari, creating a mesmerizing spectacle against the backdrop of these colossal monuments. Dinner is included at your hotel this evening. Overnight Abu Simbel.

Please note: Accommodation tonight is in a Superior Tourist Class Hotel. Abu Simbel hotel selection is limited and the hotel chosen is the best available.

This morning fly to Aswan and transfer to your hotel where accommodation is reserved for one night. This afternoon embark on a motorboat ride along the Nile to a Nubian Village on Soheil Island, located on the West Bank of the river in Aswan, near the Aswan Dam and the First Cataract. This tour offers a unique opportunity to meet a Nubian family and immerse yourself in their simple lifestyle, culture, and traditions.

As the boat glides through the clear waters of the Nile, you'll experience stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including a natural reserve area with small islands. Along the way, you’ll also pass by notable landmarks such as the Agha Khan Mausoleum and the ancient ruins of Elephantine Island.

Once in the village, take a stroll and see its colourful, mud-brick houses before visiting a local family. You’ll have the chance to enjoy a traditional Nubian drink—either mint or hibiscus tea—and gain insights into Nubian history, culture, and way of life. Sail back to Aswan, passing more villages along the way. Overnight in Aswan.

Morning at leisure in Aswan to soak up the feeling of the city that in antiquity was the frontier town for the south of the Egyptian empire. Later this morning transfer to your cruise boat. After lunch on board set off to sail by traditional felucca around Kitchener’s Island with a view of the Agha Khan Mausoleum. This evening attend dinner and a Nubian folkloric show on board. Overnight Aswan.

After an early breakfast visit the High Dam, the Granite Quarries 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 to your cruise ship with lunch on board as you set sail for Kom Ombo. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the ship prior to a late afternoon visit to 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. Sail on this evening to Edfu. Dinner and a Galabeya party on board this evening. Overnight Edfu.

Today your private Egyptologist guide will help you discover more of Luxor. Your first visit of the day will be to the Temple of Medinat Habu, the mortuary temple of Ramses III, following his assassination in a plot led by one of his wives. Later, step back into more recent history with a visit to Howard Carter’s house. Neglected for a long time, the house has now been restored to its former state by the famous Egyptologist and Archaeologist Dr Zahi Hawass. This afternoon, learn the ancient Egyptian rites of immortality with a visit to the Mummification Museum before returning to your hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure. Ovenight Luxor.

After breakfast you will be transferred to Luxor airport for your flight to Cairo. On arrival in Cairo, you will be met and transferred to the railway station to board your first-class train to Alexandria. The city is famed for its lighthouse from antiquity, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the historic Library, which was destroyed by fire, but in more modern times reconstructed. It is also where Cleopatra rolled herself into a rug to be smuggled into Julius Caesar’s Palace. Overnight Alexandria.

This morning you will depart on a full day tour with your private Egyptologist to El Alamein – lunch is included on your tour today. Located 105kms to the west of Alexandria and site of one of the most decisive battles of World War II, it was here that 200,000 Allied soldiers under the command of Bernard Montgomery finally defeated Erwin Rommel – known as the Desert Fox. This battle which cost many lives on both sides is credited with leading to the surrender of the Axis forces in North Africa. The Allied Cemetery and museum are sober places to reflect on this significant WWII campaign. Return to Alexandria late afternoon. Overnight Alexandria.

After breakfast meet your guide for your private tour of Alexandria. Start with a visit to the Alexandria National Museum. The museum comprises more than 1800 archaeological pieces that narrate the Pharaonic, Greek, Roman, Coptic, Islamic, and modern history of Egypt. One display features pieces picked up from the seabed at Abu Ker Bay and the eastern harbour near the Qaitbay Citadel. Continue to the Catacombs of Kom El-Shouqafa. These tombs were tunnelled into bedrock at the time of the Antonine emperors in the 2nd century AD for a single wealthy family still practicing the ancient religion. Although the funerary motifs are purely ancient Egyptian, the architects and artists were schooled in the Greco-Roman style. Finally, visit the Roman Amphitheatre. This archaeological site includes ruins dating back to the Roman era and includes a theatre, baths and a villa decorated with mosaics.

Upon completion of your tour you will be transferred by private vehicle to Cairo where accommodation is reserved for two nights.

Meet your private Egyptologist guide and embark on an enriching journey through Egypt's rich history and. Your first stop is 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, 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 bazaars.

OPTIONS: There is the option today to replace one of your half day tours with the one of the following:
1)   The new discoveries at Sakkara
2)   A visit to the Museum of Ancient Civilisation in Cairo

This morning you will be transferred by private vehicle to Cairo airport for your onward flight.

• 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
• 10 nights’ accommodation in hotels specified with private facilities
• Daily breakfasts at hotels; Dinner at Abu Simbel Hotel on Day 3
• 3-night Nile Cruise on full board basis
• Private transfers in air-conditioned transportation
• First Class Train Cairo/Alexandria
• Road transfer Alexandria/Cairo by private air-conditioned vehicle
• Economy Class domestic flights Cairo/Abu Simbel - Abu Simbel/Aswan – Luxor/Cairo
• Private sightseeing (excluding on the Nile Cruise) in Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, Alexandria, El Alamein 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

• 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

• 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.