Dhows on the River Nile
Medinet Habu Mortuary Temple of Ramses III, Luxor
Aswan- Dhow Nile Boat
Ramses VI Tomb
Upper Egypt and the Eternal Nile

Upper Egypt and the Eternal Nile

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Regular price
$4,945.00
Sale price
$4,945.00

Independent Holiday with 4-Night Nile Cruise
11 Days ex Cairo

Preferred Departure Days:
First Class: Thursday
Deluxe: Thursday
Super Deluxe: Thursday
Platinum: Thursday
 
Notes:
  • Cruise itinerary featured is based on the First Class cruise ship. The day-by-day Nile Cruise itinerary may vary according to the cruise boat confirmed
  • Cruises may operate in reverse
  • Supplement may apply for tours commencing on other days
 

Embark on a journey through Egypt's ancient wonders, starting in Cairo with the iconic Pyramids of Giza. Spend extra nights in Luxor to discover the house of Howard Carter and the Mummification Museum before setting sail on a captivating 4-night Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan, experiencing Egypt's historic sites and picturesque landscapes. Conclude your adventure with an additional night in Aswan, where you can explore its tranquil temples and vibrant markets at your leisure. This thoughtfully planned itinerary ensures a comprehensive and unforgettable journey through Egypt's cultural and historical treasures.

Highlights:
  • A warm welcome with a personal meet and assist inside immigration, together with your Egyptian visa on arrival, followed by express immigration assistance
  • Discover the iconic Pyramids of Giza and delve into Cairo's rich history with a private Egyptologist-guide
  • Two nights in Luxor with visits to Medinat Habu Temple, Howard Carter’s House and the Mummification Museum
  • Experience a captivating 4-night cruise along the Nile, from Luxor to Aswan, witnessing historic sites and picturesque landscapes
  • Roam the magnificent temples of Luxor and Karnak, as well as the Valley of the Kings and Queens – bonus entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI included
  • Additional night in Aswan with time at leisure to explore its serene temples, bustling markets, and take in the tranquil beauty of the city
  • Uncover cosmopolitan Cairo with its rich heritage of cultural influences and echoes of ancient civilisations
  • 24/7 service and full local backup from our seven regional offices throughout Egypt

Day 1: Cairo

Welcome to Egypt. On arrival at Cairo Airport, you will be you will be welcomed by our local representative prior to immigration to assist you with your included Egyptian Visa. You will then be transferred by private vehicle to your Pyramids area hotel. The remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 2: Cairo (B)

Awake in the shadows of the Pyramids. Today’s exploration begins at the ancient capital of Memphis where you will visit the Step Pyramids of Sakkara – the oldest surviving Egyptian pyramid. Continue to the most iconic of Egypt’s monuments at the impressive site of Giza. Construction began in 2690 BC, the Pyramids of Mycerinus, Chefren and 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.

Day 3: Cairo - Luxor (B)

From the oldest buildings in Egypt to one of the newest. Today’s trip with your Egyptologist-guide takes you to the massive and inspirational GEM Museum, the largest archaeological museum in the world. This stunning new museum, dedicated to the boy king Tutankhamun, showcases the ancient discoveries of Pharaonic Egypt. Using the latest architecture and technology the museum brings to life and displays the pharaonic civilisation like it has never been seen before. The GEM is currently in a “soft opening” phase, and you will have an opportunity to see the grand statue of Ramses II, relocated from Tahrir Square dominating the foyer, plus many other ancient Egyptian wonders.

Upon completion of the tour, you will be transferred to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor. On arrival in Luxor, you will be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel where accommodation has been reserved for two nights.

Day 4: Luxor (B)

This morning you will be met by your private Egyptologist-guide then head out to discover the Temple of Medinat Habu which is the Mortuary Temple of Ramses III. Continue to the house of famed archaeologist Howard Carter. Neglected for a long time, the house has been restored to its former state under the guidance of the famous Egyptologist and Archaeologist Dr Zahi Hawass. It is a fascinating insight into the life of the man who discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun after years of searching the Valley of the Kings.

In the afternoon, return to the East Bank and visit the Mummification Museum. The ancient Egyptians believed that for a person to reach the afterlife, it was essential that both their body and their name remained, so their Soul would be transported from one life to the next. To achieve this the mummification rituals were developed to preserve the body. The museum contains several human and animal mummies as well as the tools and the canopic jars needed for the ritual. Evening at leisure or to explore the markets of Luxor. Overnight Luxor.

Day 5: Luxor (BLD)

Leisurely morning before embarking on your Nile Cruise. 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. Dinner on board. Overnight Luxor.

Day 6: Luxor – Esna (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. Your visit today includes a special upgraded ticket to include access to the tomb of the boy king Tutankhamun and the Ramses VI Tomb. Next pay a visit to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and see the famed Colossi of Memnon facing the Nile. Return to your cruise ship for lunch and set sail for Esna. This evening attend the Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Party, followed by dinner.
Innovative Bonus: Entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI included

Day 7: Esna - Edfu – Kom Ombo – Aswan (BLD)

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. There will be a Galabeya party on board this evening.

Day 8: Aswan (BLD)

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 dinner and a Nubian folkloric show on board.

Day 9: Aswan (B)

Optional (surcharge applies): Half day or overnight visit to Abu Simbel

Disembark from your cruise this morning after breakfast. You will be met and transferred by private vehicle to your Aswan hotel where accommodation is reserved for one night. Remainder of the day at leisure. Let the natural beauty of Aswan capture your imagination, explore the markets and/or sip a drink on the banks of the Nile. Overnight Aswan.

Day 10: Aswan – Cairo (B)

This morning you will be transferred by private vehicle to Aswan Airport for your flight to Cairo, a modern cosmopolitan capital with a rich heritage of cultural influences and echoes of ancient civilisations.

Meet your private Egyptologist-guide and embark on a journey through Egypt's rich history. Your first stop is 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 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.

OPTION: You have the option to replace the visit to the Ancient Civilisation Museum with a visit of Coptic Cairo where you will explore iconic Coptic churches, including the renowned Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, mosque of Amr ibn al-As and the Coptic Museum.  

Day 11: Cairo (B)

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

TOUR INCLUSIONS:

  • VIP 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
  • 6 nights’ accommodation in hotels specified with private facilities
  • Daily breakfasts at hotels
  • 4-night Nile Cruise on full board basis
  • Private transfers in air-conditioned transportation
  • Economy Class domestic flights Cairo/Luxor and Aswan/Cairo
  • Private sightseeing in Cairo and Luxor 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 included
  • 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

 

First Class: Steinberger Pyramids - City/Pool View Room

Deluxe Class: Hyatt Regency Cairo West - Pyramids View Room

Super Deluxe Class: Marriott Mena House - Pyramids View Room

Platinum: Marriott Mena House - Pyramids View Suite

Luxor

 

First Class: Sonesta St. George Hotel - Side Nile View Room

Deluxe Class: Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa - Garden View Room

Super Deluxe Class: Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa - Nile View Room

Platinum:  Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa - Nile Suite

Nile Cruise

First Class: Sonesta Nile Goddess

Deluxe Class: Movenpick Royal Lily | Movenpick Royal Lotus

Super Deluxe Class: Sonesta St. George

Platinum: Sonesta Sun Goddess - Presidential Suite

Aswan

First Class: Movenpick Aswan - Standard Partial Nile View Room

Deluxe Class: Movenpick Resort Aswan - Nile View Room

Super Deluxe Class: Sofitel Legend Old Cataract - Luxury Room Nile Wing

Platinum: Sofitel Legend Old Cataract - Nile Suite

Cairo City

First Class: Steeigenberger Tahrir - Standard City View Room

Deluxe Class: Sheraton Cairo - Partial Nile View Room

Super Deluxe Class: The Nile Ritz-Carlton - Nile View Room

Platinum: The Nile Ritz-Carlton - Nile 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 tour packages) plus bonus entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI.

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.

Abu Simbel Temple

Egypt of a Bygone Era

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Abu Simbel Temple

Ancient Egypt and The Nile In Style