T's & C's apply
Above all else Egypt is a land dominated by her river. The life-giving Nile is comprehensively explored in style on this package as is Lake Nasser. Begin your adventure in Cairo, discovering the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). Next, embark on a 4-night Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan, where you'll witness stunning temples and picturesque landscapes. Continue with a serene 3-night Lake Nasser cruise, uncovering hidden gems, majestic monuments and ruins of Ancient Nubia along the way. Conclude your journey with an enchanting night in Aswan, where the beauty of the Nile and the rich history of Egypt will leave you spellbound. This unforgettable journey promises a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure.
Highlights:
Welcome to Egypt. Upon your arrival at Cairo Airport, our local representative will greet you before immigration and assist with your included Egyptian Visa. Benefit from our included fast track service for expedited passage through immigration, bypassing the queues. Assistance will be provided for luggage collection and customs clearance, followed by a private transfer to your hotel in the Pyramids area. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and explore at your leisure. Overnight stay in Cairo.
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
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 embark on your cruise along the life-giving Nile. After lunch on board your cruise ship you will 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. This evening there will be a Belly Dance show followed by dinner. Overnight onboard your ship in Luxor.
In the early hours of the morning your cruise ship will cross the Esna locks and sail for Edfu. Following breakfast on board 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 mid-morning and continue sailing to 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. Dinner followed by a Galabeya party this evening. Overnight onboard your cruise ship in Kom Ombo.
Early this morning your ship will set sail for Aswan. After 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 for a leisurely lunch on board your cruise ship before setting off mid-afternoon to sail by traditional felucca around Kitchener’s Island with a view of the Agha Khan Mausoleum. This evening attend the Nubian folkloric show followed by dinner on board. Overnight onboard your cruise ship in Aswan.
Disembark this morning after breakfast and transfer to Aswan airport for your flight to Abu Simbel. On arrival at Abu Simbel Airport, you will be met and transferred to board your Lake Nasser Cruise boat. After unpacking, get your first view of these magnificent temples from the water. Step ashore and visit these incomparable temples dedicated to Ramesses II and his wife Nefertari. These structures were lost to antiquity until the early 19th century, only to then face the threat of being submerged by the creation of the Aswan High Dam. An international effort had them chiselled into pieces and relocated to their current site, preserving them for the ages to come.
After visiting the Abu Simbel Temples, you will return to your ship for afternoon tea. This evening there is the option (surcharge applies) to attend the amazing Sound & Light show at Abu Simbel Temples. Dinner and overnight onboard the ship in Abu Simbel.
Breakfast is served this morning while sailing to Kasr Ibrim. On arrival at the historical site of Kasr Ibrim there will be a stop of about 15minutes with information provided about the site from the ship’s sundeck and time for you to take photos (entrance to the site is not permitted). Lunch served while sailing to Amada where you will visit three incredible ancient sites: The Temple of Amada, the oldest Egyptian Temple in Nubia, built during the 18th Dynasty; The Temple of Derr, a unique rock-cut temple and the Tomb of Penout, the burial site of Penout, the viceroy of Nubia under Ramses VI during the 20th Dynasty. Continue sailing to Wadi El Seboua. This evening there will be a cocktail reception party followed by dinner and an entertaining Nubian show. Overnight onboard the ship at Wadi El Seboua.
Embark on a visit to the Temples of Wadi El Seboua, both of which are situated in an area known as the “Valley of the Lions” – a crucial stop along the ancient caravan route that linked Egypt to Dubia. These temples were at risk of being submerged by the construction of the Aswan Dam and were painstakingly deconstructed and reassembled above the flood waters. Return to your cruise ship and relax on board as you cruise to Aswan. Dinner and overnight onboard the ship in Aswan.
One final insight into some of the other cultures that have come to these ancient lands as you visit Kalabsha Temple, dedicated to the Nubian god Mandulis, and the Kiosk of Kertassi – a remarkably elegant roman structure from an unknown architect. After breakfast disembark the cruise and transfer to your Aswan hotel where accommodation is reserved for one night. Remainder of the day at leisure to immerse yourself in Aswan’s beauty, history and culture. Overnight in Aswan.
Early this morning you will be transferred to Aswan Airport for your flight to Cairo. On arrival at Cairo Airport, you will be met and transferred to your city hotel where accommodation is reserved for one night.
This morning embark on an enriching journey through Egypt's rich history. 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 (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 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.
Accommodation based on the following or similar:
First Class: Steigenberger Pyramids - City View Room
Deluxe Class: Hyatt Regency Cairo West - Pyramids View Room
First Class: Sonesta Nile Goddess
Deluxe Class: Movenpick Royal Lily | Movenpick Royal Lotus
First Class: Movenpick M/S Prince Abbass Lake Nasser Cruise
Deluxe Class: Movenpick M/S Prince Abbass Lake Nasser Cruise
First Class: Movenpick Aswan Hotel - Partial Nile View Room
Deluxe Class: Movenpick Aswan Hotel - Nile View Room
First Class: Steigenberger Tahrir - City View Room
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.
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