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Women Only Small Group Tour with licensed female Egyptologist
Guaranteed with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 16 passengers
Twin-share option available on request (subject to availability)
11 Days ex Cairo
Departure Date ex Cairo: 08 May 2026
Ancient Kingdoms Holidays will help you discover Egypt’s ancient mysteries. Travelling in Egypt can be complex and if you try and do it independently, your holiday can literally unravel. There are many benefits in choosing an Ancient Kingdoms Holiday for your Egyptian experience. With offices in Alexandria, Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Sharm el Sheikh and Abu Simbel you’ll benefit from fantastic local back up and local knowledge. Your guide Amira is qualified and ready to share Egypt’s secrets, from the incredible history to the best local markets or restaurant.
Benefit from almost 35 years of designing safe holidays in Egypt, with the privileged partnership of Cairo based Director, Elhamy ElZayat, “the grandfather of Egyptian tourism”, and recipient of Queens Birthday Honour, the New Zealand Order of Merit. M.N.Z.M. The enduring partnership, in combination with New Zealand based Robyn Galloway, founder of Innovative Travel, a renowned Egyptian expert since 1990, enables full support at multiple levels, from our local Egyptian offices in 7 locations, with 24/7 back up.
Highlights:
- Your Egypt experience begins, prior to immigration when you will be met by a licensed representative, assisted with your Egyptian visa, and expressed through immigration
- Your seamless welcome experience continues with the benefit of our local representative, who will accompany your arrival transfer, passing on handy tips and to assist with your check in at the five-star Hyatt Regency, Cairo West Hotel where you will greet your fellow travellers at a welcome dinner
- Experience the comfort of Deluxe hotels in strategic locations
- Savour sailing down the Nile aboard the stylish deluxe cruise ship, the Movenpick Royal Lily
- Bonus: All tipping is included, for all included services
Meet your special female Egyptologist guide: Amira
Welcome to Cairo. Your private Egyptologist guide, Amira will join you for your welcome dinner in Cairo.
Amira has a Bachelor of Arts and English Literature from Cairo University and has many years’ experiences guiding private groups. Amira looks forward to personally welcoming you in Cairo and sharing her insights into both modern and ancient Egypt.
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Terms & Conditions
- Important Information
Day 1 - Fri 08 May: Cairo (D)
On arrival in Cairo, you will be met by our friendly local representative prior to immigration and assisted with your included Egyptian visa. No need to be concerned about jet lag with the Innovative Travel special FAST TRACK service through immigration. You will then be transferred in a private vehicle to the Hyatt Regency Cairo West Hotel. Remainder of the day at leisure. A welcome dinner is included this evening, hosted by your guide and meeting your fellow travellers.
(Note: please plan to arrive in Cairo by 2pm to allow time for immigration and transfer to the hotel in time to join the welcome dinner).
Day 2 - Sat 09 May: Cairo (BD)
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. Construction began in 2690 BC, the Pyramids of Mycerinus, Chefren & the Great Pyramid of Cheops, are the only survivors of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Face the mystical Sphinx, reputedly used as target practice by Napoleon’s troops.
Continue to the captivating 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
Lunch own arrangements today
Dinner this evening, is in a special restaurant, on the roof top bar, overlooking the pyramids.
Day 3 - Sun 10 May: Cairo - Luxor (BD)
This morning you will embark 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.
Upon completion of your tour, you will be transferred to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor. On arrival at Luxor Airport you will be assisted by our local Luxor Airport team and transferred to the Hilton Luxor for an overnight stay. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.
Day 4 - Mon 11 May: Luxor (BLD)
Optional visit (surcharge applies): Mummification Museum
This morning visit the Mummification Museum, dedicated to this ancient art of embalming applied to humans and for animals. The process is believed to have taken 70 days and involved a careful process. Here view ancient mummies, including that of General Amun el Thebes.
Later this morning transfer to the Movenpick Royal Lily cruise ship. This deluxe five-star cruise ship offers an unparalleled experience between Luxor and Aswan. Featuring 56 elegant deluxe cabins (approx. 22 sq. metres), and 4 exquisite Royal Suites (approx. 42 sq. metres) complete with a jacuzzi bathtub and generous amenities.
Facilities include: Outdoor pool with sun deck & bar, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, onboard spa featuring a dedicated massage room and sauna for relaxation, library & business centre, Wi-Fi.
Deluxe cabins feature: panoramic windows offering wide, unobstructed views of the changing scenery, satellite TV, mini-bar, toiletries, bathtub, Wi-Fi, tea/coffee making facilities, electronic safe.
Option available to upgrade to a Royal Suite (surcharge applies).
Facilities include: Outdoor pool with sun deck & bar, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, onboard spa featuring a dedicated massage room and sauna for relaxation, library & business centre, Wi-Fi.
Deluxe cabins feature: panoramic windows offering wide, unobstructed views of the changing scenery, satellite TV, mini-bar, toiletries, bathtub, Wi-Fi, tea/coffee making facilities, electronic safe.
Option available to upgrade to a Royal Suite (surcharge applies).
This afternoon, visit the magnificent Luxor Temple, built in the 14th century BC by two kings – Amenophis III and Ramses II. Follow the Avenue of the Sphinx to the Karnak Temple complex and gaze in awe at this imposing monument housing precious relics of Ancient Egyptian dynasties. Dinner on board followed by this evening’s entertainment, a belly dancing show.
Day 5 - Tue 12 May: Luxor - Esna (BLD)
Optional Hot Air Balloon Trip (surcharge applies)
Early this morning cross to the West Bank and visit Thebes Necropolis and the burial ground of the Pharaohs – the Valley of the Kings – where Howard Carter discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922. Proceed to the nearby Valley of the Queens, the mortuary temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon facing the Nile. Your visit today includes a special upgraded ticket to include access to the tomb of the boy king Tutankhamun and the tomb of Ramses VI.
The last stop this morning is at the Habibi Cotton factory, located on the West Bank and providing employment for local women. Here high-quality Egyptian cotton garments, scarves, and beautiful art works, along with many other goods are produced, the opportunity to purchase is available.
Return to the ship and set said for Esna. Lunch is served whilst sailing to Esna.
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, with some local Egyptian cash on hand.
This evening join the Captain’s welcome cocktail party followed by dinner and overnight at Esna.
Day 6 - Wed 13 May: Esna - Edfu - Kom Ombo (BLD)
Early morning departure to Edfu, with a delicious breakfast aboard. Visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples of the Greco - Roman era. Continue cruising to Kom Ombo and later in the afternoon visit the Temple shared by two Gods – Sobek & Horus. The temple is perfectly symmetrical, ensuring neither God was offended. The collection of crocodile mummies held here is fascinating. Overnight in Kom Ombo, with the opportunity to view the sun setting over this spectacular temple. This evening's there will be a Galabaya party onboard.
Note: Galabaya's may be rented or purchased onboard or from one of the local markets
Day 7 - Thu 14 May: Kom Ombo - Aswan (BLD plus High Tea)
Early morning sailing to Aswan. This morning take your local boat across to the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser at the time of the High Dam’s construction. Later visit the High Dam. Return for lunch on board and time to relax. Mid-afternoon transfer to the Sofitel Old Cataract, base for Dame Agatha Christie as she penned “Death on the Nile”. Savour a High Tea whilst sitting on this famous terrace overlooking the Nile. Later return to the ship for dinner this evening, followed by a colourful Nubian Show.
Day 8 - Fri 15 May: Aswan - Cairo (BD)
Disembark this morning, with time to explore Aswan or your choice of two optional tours.
Optional Tours (surcharge applies):
Option 1: Nubian Museum (surcharge applies - minimum of 2 required)
After disembarkation meet your guide and transfer to the International Nubian Museum. The kings of Nubia ultimately conquered and ruled Egypt for a century. Known for its rich deposits of gold, Nubia was also the gateway for the incense trade, their rulers building cities, temples and their own royal pyramids. After your tour, time free to explore Aswan in your own time, before departing to the airport for your flight to Cairo.
Option 2: Abu Simbel Tour (surcharge applies)
An early morning transfer from the cruise boat to Abu Simbel Airport. Depart on EgyptAir to Abu Simbel. On arrival be met by a local Egyptologist and join a small group tour to one of the most impressive archaeological sites in all of Egypt, not only for its historical significance, but for the great engineering success in moving these temples to their present location.
Of all the temples of Egyptian antiquity, amongst the most spectacular and best preserved are the Temples of Abu Simbel. The master builder was Ramses II, one of Egypt’s greatest Pharaohs. The larger temple celebrates the Pharaoh himself while the smaller one honours his wife, Queen Nefertari.
When the new Lake Nasser Dam was built in the 1960s, the temples were moved to save them from a watery grave. In an amazing feat of engineering, the temples were hewn into huge blocks of thirty tonnes each and relocated 180m further inland.
Please wear sturdy footwear today, pack some snacks and water bottle. At the conclusion of your tour, transfer to Abu Simbel Airport, for your flight to Aswan, connecting to Cairo.
This afternoon transfer to Aswan Airport for your flight to Cairo. On arrival our Cairo Airport team will meet and assist you. Transfer to the Sofitel Gezirah Hotel where you are reserved for two nights. Dinner at your hotel this evening.
Day 9 - Sat 16 May: Cairo (B)
Today you will explore this modern cosmopolitan capital with a rich heritage of cultural influences and echoes of ancient civilisations. This morning visit the Tawasol NGO which supports local women into small business. Continue to the magnificently curated National Museum of Ancient Civilizations. The Museum’s vision is to bring the rich tapestry of tangible and intangible Egyptian heritage to life within a vibrant cultural, artistic and scientific context. After your visit which spans many millennia, move downstairs to the Mummy Room, to view their spectacular Mummy exhibits, in your own time. Continue to the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, open since the 1382, with time for shopping. Conclude your day on a rooftop bar, watching the sun set over Cairo’s skyline, with a local drink of wine, beer or juice included. Return to your hotel. Dinner this evening own arrangements, perhaps dine at one of the many hotel restaurants, or dine locally. Your guide will provide recommendations.
Day 10 - Sun 17 May: Cairo (BD)
Morning at leisure or join the optional morning tour (min. 2 passengers - surcharge applies):
Coptic Cairo (optional tour - surcharge applies): Visit old Cairo’s Coptic Churches. It was in this area that Jesus, Mary and Joseph stayed, and Christianity flourished, prior to the Islamic invasion. The area encompasses the Babylon Fortress the Coptic Museum, the Hanging Church, the Greek Church of St George amidst many other historical sites.
This afternoon embark on a Women of Egypt Food & Shopping Tour
The Women of Egypt Food and Shopping Tour celebrates diversity by exploring culinary delights and shopping, offering a leisurely experience that fosters deep connections with the inspiring stories of the remarkable women behind Downtown Cairo's vibrant food scene. Through curated visits to female-owned restaurants, the tour highlights the personal and professional journeys of culinary pioneers from diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds. This experience goes beyond food, inviting you to discover female-owned local brands that showcase Egyptian culture and traditions while contributing to the economic empowerment of women and the preservation of Egypt's rich cultural heritage.
Dinner is included this evening at your hotel.
Day 11 - Mon 18 May: Cairo (B)
Two group departure transfer times are available to the airport, including one early and one mid-morning. Alternative private transfers can be arranged if required.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- Fast Track meet and assistance prior to immigration at Cairo Airport
- Egyptian visa on arrival (offer valid for NZ, Australian, UK, USA & Canadian passport holders). Other nationalities on application
- Personally hosted whilst in Egypt by Egyptologist Amira
- Return Airport to hotel transfers
- Local representative airport assistance in Cairo, Luxor & Aswan
- Check in assistance on Day 1 into Cairo hotel
- Accommodation in Deluxe class hotels (2N Cairo Hyatt Regency West; 1N Hilton Luxor; 3N Sofitel Gezirah Hotel Cairo with daily buffet breakfasts
- 4-night Nile cruise on a Deluxe ship, Movenpick Royal Lily, All meals on the cruise (4, breakfasts, 4 lunches & 4 dinners)
- Welcome dinner on Day 1
- Dinner at a local restaurant overlooking the pyramids, on Day 2
- High Tea at the Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel on Day 7
- Dinner at hotel in Luxor on Day 3
- Dinner at Sofitel Gezirah Hotel Cairo on Day 8 and Day 10
- All touring and transfers in air-conditioned transportation
- Private English-speaking female Egyptologist in Cairo and Luxor
- Cairo sightseeing including:
- Pyramids & Sphinx and the Grand Egyptian Museum
- Memphis & Sakkara
- Women of Egypt Food & Shopping Tour in Cairo on Day 10
- Upgraded VIP Valley of the Kings ticket to include the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI
- Sightseeing on the Cruise with your Egyptologist guide
- Activities & entrance fees as per the itinerary
- Economy Class domestic flights (Cairo/Luxor and Awan/Cairo)
- Porterage
- Bonus: All Tipping and gratuities for guides, drivers and transfers included for all included activities
- Egypt Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Tipping/Gratuities (for non-included optional activities)
- Personal expenses
- Meals not specified or hotel / cruise minibar
- Optional sightseeing or activities
- Afternoon transfer on Day 11 to Cairo Airport
- Check in prior to 2pm
-
Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
OPTIONAL TOURS (minimum of 2 required)
- Mummification Museum in Luxor: NZD 122 / AUD 113
- Hot Air Balloon over the West Bank ex Luxor: NZD 290 / AUD 269
- Nubian Museum in Aswan: NZD 130 / AUD 120
- Abu Simbel excursion ex Aswan including Return flights, transfers, and small group tour with a local Egyptologist guide: NZD 859 per person / AUD 790 per person
- Half day Coptic Cairo: NZD 170 / AUD 160
- Cheops Pyramids Entrance: NZD 99 / AUD 92
Accommodation based on the following (or similar):
The hotel selection may change – please use this as a guideline only.
Cairo (Giza)
Deluxe Class: Hyatt Regency Cairo West
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Luxor
Deluxe Class: Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa - Nile View Room
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Nile Cruise
Deluxe Class: Movenpick MS Royal Lily - Deluxe Cabin
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Cairo (Downtown)
Deluxe Class: Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah Hotel - Premium Partial Nile View Room
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In addition to the Innovative Travel general terms and conditions, the following applies:
The tour is guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 4 clients, and maximum of 16 clients.
If you are a solo traveller and would like to share a twin room, with another traveller, please request at the time of registration. If for any reason during the tour a preference is made for a single room, a single supplement will be charged.
To secure your place please fill out the tour registration form.
An initial deposit of NZD/AUD $2,000 will be required per person, along with a registration form completed and returned to Innovative Travel.
The balance is payable on 15 February 2026.
Cancellation fees:
- After deposit until 01 Dec 25: $750 per person;
- 02 Dec 25 -15 Feb 26: $2,000 per person;
- 16 Feb 26 – 16 Mar 26: 30%;
- 17 -31 Mar 26: 50%;
- 01 April 26 – departure: 100%.
Travel insurance is essential to be purchased at the time of deposit to cover cancellation due to any unforeseen circumstances. For full general terms and conditions refer to www.innovative-travel.com
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 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.
On the Nile there are river boats that cruise between Luxor and Aswan. Each night and whilst moored for sightseeing, other cruise boats maybe be parked abreast of each other. The location of your cruise boat will vary from port to port and at times the view from your cabin will be restricted to cruising periods only.
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 tour packages) plus an upgraded VIP ticket to include entrance fees to Tutankhamen’s and Seti 1 tomb.
Dress Codes:
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.
Itineraries are prepared as a guideline only. Some variations may apply due to prevailing local conditions in a country. All cruise ship itineraries and embarkation times may be subject to change, due to local conditions (including weather) and/or possible port congestion and the final requirements of the cruise companies. Final embarkation timings will be confirmed to clients prior to embarkation. Transfer times, and flight schedules booked by Innovative Travel may be reconfirmed by the local agent, upon arrival and are subject to change.
Hotel check-in/out times are normally IN: 2pm/OUT: 12noon the only way to guarantee an early check-in or late check-out is to pre-book the night before (early check-in) or night after (late check-out). Otherwise, early check-in and late check-out are subject to availability when you are there.
Bedding configuration: Please note we will note your preferred bedding configuration.
Itinerary descriptions and photographs: All photos and hotel descriptions are general impressions of the property booked. These do not necessarily represent the room or view you will receive.
Non-Smoking Rooms: As a policy Innovative Travel request non-smoking rooms for all guests. These rooms are requested and are subject to availability.
Holiday preparation:
Before your holiday, please make sure that you check and comply with specific local requirements such as visas, international driving licence, vaccinations, travel insurance etc. as they vary from one country to the other and change frequently.
Tipping is an accepted practice throughout the world. In many countries tipping acts as a supplement to a basic wage. It is however discretionary. If you believe you have received efficient service, then service should be rewarded. Group tipping is included for all including group activities and meals. For optional tours a guideline will be provided for tipping prior to departure.
On a lighter note,
Please remember that religious beliefs, traditional customs, and daily manners may differ from country to country, these may seem quite strange at first. These idiosyncrasies are part of what makes travelling a special experience. Please be patient if you think things are happening at a different pace than you are used to and respect the differences in culture.
If you need assistance relating to travel arrangements provided, please speak to Amira immediately, who will communicate with our Local Agent, as they are there to assist you. If there is any issue with your room, please make this known to Amira so she may assist you.
For general tour conditions, cancellation, and amendment fees as per www.innovativetravel.co.nz Special conditions apply for private group tours.
Travel Advisory Information can change at any time, and we suggest clients refer to The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Travel Trade Advisory website at www.safetravel.govt.nz (NZ site) or www.smartraveller.gov.au (Australian site) prior to departure for the latest up to date information and general advice regarding travel to Egypt.
