Discover the finest of Egypt through our 10-day itinerary, delving into the wonders of Cairo, embarking on a Nile Cruise adventure, and experiencing the unique beauty of the White Desert. Immerse yourself in Cairo's rich heritage, from the Pyramids to vibrant markets. Embark on a luxurious Nile Cruise, unveiling the treasures of Luxor and Aswan's historical sites. Then, venture to the mesmerizing White Desert, where surreal landscapes await. Our expert-guided journey seamlessly blends culture, history, and natural beauty. Explore ancient wonders, cruise the Nile's timeless waters, and witness the ethereal White Desert formations. This itinerary captures Egypt's diverse allure, leaving you with memories of a truly exceptional 10-day adventure.
Welcome to Cairo! We're thrilled to have you join us. you'll find crucial details for a seamless arrival at your selected hotel or rental apartment:
Upon your arrival at Cairo International Airport, our dedicated representative will warmly welcome and assist you. You'll be transferred to your hotel in the comfort of a private air-conditioned vehicle. Enjoy your evening at leisure and relax for the night at your Cairo hotel, the exact timing depending on your flight's arrival. For those with an early flight to Cairo, feel free to get in touch with us to explore tour suggestions and make the most of your time in this vibrant city. Your journey with us ensures a seamless beginning and tailored options to suit your travel schedule.
Your day begins with a visit to the legendary Pyramids of Giza, an architectural triumph that has stood for millennia as a testament to human ingenuity and ambition. As you approach these colossal structures rising from the desert sands, the sheer magnitude of their presence leaves a lasting impression. The three main pyramids – the Pyramid of Khufu (also known as the Great Pyramid), the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure – dominate the horizon, shrouded in an air of mystery. The Pyramids were constructed as tombs for ancient Egyptian pharaohs and are thought to hold intricate secrets that continue to fascinate archaeologists and visitors alike.
After a morning of exploring the pyramids, head to the Cairo Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts that offers a captivating glimpse into Egypt's past. The museum's architecture itself is a masterpiece, blending modern design with ancient Egyptian motifs. Step inside and find yourself surrounded by an astounding collection of artifacts, sculptures, jewelry, and mummies that span thousands of years of Egyptian history. The highlight of the museum is undoubtedly the vast collection from King Tutankhamun's tomb, including his iconic golden death mask. As you explore the museum's halls, you'll encounter intricately carved statues, delicately painted pottery, and the famous Rosetta Stone, which played a pivotal role in deciphering hieroglyphs. The Cairo Museum is a place where history comes to life, offering a rare opportunity to connect with the lives and stories of ancient Egyptians.
Continuing your Egyptian journey, your day begins with a seamless transition from your Giza hotel to Cairo Airport, where you'll catch an early flight to Aswan. The anticipation of your next adventure fills the air as you board the plane, eager to explore the treasures that Aswan has to offer. Upon arrival in Aswan, you'll embark on a Nile Cruise and enjoy a delectable lunch on board. The gentle flow of the Nile River sets the tone for a leisurely afternoon filled with remarkable sights and historical wonders.
Your exploration of Aswan commences with visits to several iconic landmarks: Temple of Philae: This temple stands as a testament to ancient devotion, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Constructed in the classical Egyptian style, the temple's construction began around 690 BC. Its significance lies in being one of the final bastions where the goddess Isis was venerated. As you walk through its sacred halls, you'll feel a connection to the past and the spiritual devotion that once thrived here.
Felucca Tour: Experience the magic of the Nile up close as you embark on a felucca, a traditional Egyptian sailboat. The tranquil waters guide you around Elephantine Island, offering a serene perspective of your surroundings. The gentle breeze and the rhythmic sway of the felucca create an atmosphere of serenity, allowing you to truly appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
The High Dam: Aswan's modern marvel, the Aswan High Dam, takes center stage. This rock-fill dam, situated on the border between Egypt and Sudan, harnesses the power of the Nile River and forms Lake Nasser. Its construction, initiated in 1960 and completed in 1968, marked a significant chapter in Egypt's history, ultimately leading to the formation of Lake Nasser. The dam's impressive scale and engineering prowess are a sight to behold.
The Unfinished Obelisk: Journey to the Northern Quarries of Aswan and come face to face with the remnants of ancient craftsmanship. Carved from the finest granite, the colossal unfinished obelisk offers insights into the intricate process of obelisk construction. Marvel at its massive size, imagining the feat it would have been once completed. The unfinished obelisk's existence sheds light on the ancient techniques employed by skilled artisans.
Nubian Village: Your journey concludes with a visit to the Nubian Village, a vibrant and authentic corner of Aswan. As you stroll through its colorful streets, you'll encounter the heart and soul of Nubian culture. The village's authenticity captivates your senses, leaving you with lasting memories of this immersive experience.
As the day transitions into night, dinner awaits you back on board the cruise. The promise of a comfortable and restful overnight stay on the cruise is a perfect ending to a day filled with exploration, history, and the beauty of Aswan's landscapes.
As the sun rises on another day of adventure, you wake up to the gentle rhythm of the Nile, enjoying a hearty breakfast on board the cruise. The anticipation of the day's journey fills the air, as you prepare for an early excursion to the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel. Early Visit to Abu Simbel: Your day begins with a remarkable journey to the Abu Simbel temples, a true testament to the ancient Egyptians' devotion and architectural prowess. Carved into the mountain's western bank, these two temples, dedicated to Ramses the Second and Queen Nefertari, stand as monuments of enduring love and faith. Created between 1274 and 1244 B.C., the Great Temple honors Ramses the Second, Ra-Harakhty, Amun Ra, and Ptah, featuring colossal statues that guard its entrance. The second temple pays homage to Queen Nefertari and Goddess Hathor. Notably, these temples were painstakingly dismantled and reconstructed on higher ground, a feat recognized as one of UNESCO's greatest achievements.
Lunch on the Nile Cruise: Return to the comfort of the cruise for a delectable lunch, savoring both the flavors of Egyptian cuisine and the camaraderie of fellow travelers.
Sail to Kom Ombo: The cruise sets sail for Kom Ombo, treating you to breathtaking Nile vistas and the serene flow of the river. The journey itself is a delight, allowing you to relax and take in the surroundings. Temple of Kom Ombo: Upon reaching Kom Ombo, you're welcomed by the temple that honors the deities Sobek and Horus. This temple, dating primarily to the Ptolemaic and Roman periods (332 B.C. - 395 A.D.), stands as a testament to the melding of ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman influences. The dual nature of the temple is reflected in its symmetrical design, with separate sanctuaries for each deity. Explore the intricate carvings, hieroglyphs, and the rich history that unfolds within the temple's walls.
Sail to Edfu: As the day continues, the cruise sets sail once again, this time heading to Edfu. The leisurely journey along the Nile allows you to soak in the peaceful ambiance and reflect on the wonders you've encountered throughout the day. Overnight in Edfu: Arriving in Edfu, you'll find a welcoming haven for the night. The promise of a comfortable and restful overnight stay on board the cruise provides a fitting end to a day filled with exploration and cultural enrichment. Dinner & Galabeya Party: The evening brings with it a delightful dinner on board the cruise. As the stars twinkle overhead, immerse yourself in a Galabeya Party, a celebration of Egyptian culture and vibrant traditions. Dance, music, and camaraderie fill the air, creating memories that will linger long after the night is over. As the Galabeya Party winds down, you retire to your comfortable cabin, reflecting on the day's adventures and looking forward to the experiences that await you in the days ahead.
As the sun graces the horizon, a new day of exploration unfolds with breakfast on board the Nile cruise. The promise of another enriching day lies ahead, and your first adventure begins with: Visit to Edfu: Around 8:00, you embark on a unique journey to the Edfu Temple, guided by the rhythmic clip-clop of horse carriage hooves. This Upper Egyptian site is crowned by a magnificently preserved temple, a tribute to the hawk-god Horus. This temple's history is layered, with a Ptolemaic temple constructed atop the remains of an even older structure, harking back to the reign of Ptolemy the Third (246 B.C.). Intricately carved walls bear witness to the Myth of the Contending of Horus and Seth, a narrative that likely unfolded annually as a religious drama. Your exploration offers a glimpse into the sacred rites and beliefs of ancient times.
Sail to Luxor via Esna Lock: the cruise sets sail once more, this time navigating through the Esna Lock. As you pass through this engineering marvel, take a moment to appreciate the mechanics that allow ships to traverse the Nile's changing water levels.
Arrival in Luxor: Your journey brings you to Luxor, a city steeped in history and teeming with ancient wonders. The bustling cityscape forms the backdrop to your next adventure. Visit to Luxor Temple: Step into the past as you visit the Luxor Temple, a monumental complex largely erected by the New Kingdom Pharaoh Amenhotep the Third. The temple's grandeur is a testament to the historical significance of Luxor as an ancient city of power. The temple's construction continued under the reign of King Tutankhamun and the great King Ramses the Second. The temple's first pylon, raised by Ramses the Second, bears striking depictions of his military conquests, particularly the famed Battle of Kadesh. As you traverse the temple's corridors, you walk in the footsteps of ancient kings and experience the awe-inspiring atmosphere that once surrounded them.
Visit the West Bank of Luxor: The West Bank of Luxor, a realm of history and mystery, beckons you to explore its treasures. Your journey takes you to the fabled Valley of the Kings, once known as the "Great Place of the Truth." Now called the Valley of the Kings, this majestic expanse cradles the stone sarcophagi of pharaohs who once rested here, anticipating immortality. The valley, set behind the imposing Deir el-Bahri, is dominated by the pyramid-shaped mountain peak, an emblem of timeless grandeur.
Emerging from the desert plain in terraced splendor, the Temple of Hatshepsut captivates the eye. Rising in harmony with the limestone cliffs of Theban Mountain's eastern face, it's as if nature itself contributed to this extraordinary monument. A tribute to Queen Hatshepsut's legacy, this temple is a marvel of design and engineering.
Standing tall like silent sentinels, the Colossi of Memnon cast their shadow across history. These massive pair of statues, reaching an impressive 18 meters in height, are remnants of what was once the most extensive complex on the West Bank. Commissioned by Amenhotep the Third, they hold a silent vigil over the land, a testament to the past's greatness.
Karnak is more than a temple; it's a symphony of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons, and obelisks that pay homage to Egypt's pharaohs and the Theban gods. This sprawling complex is dedicated to the Theban Triad—Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. As you walk through its awe-inspiring corridors, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient rituals and the reverent whispers of history.
Fly to Cairo - Transfer to Hotel: As the day unfolds, you bid farewell to Luxor, boarding a flight to Cairo. Upon landing, a seamless transfer brings you to your hotel in Cairo, a sanctuary of comfort and relaxation. Overnight in Cairo: The bustling city of Cairo embraces you as you settle in for the night. The memories of the West Bank's splendor, the monumental Karnak Complex, and the day's experiences accompany you into your dreams. This marks the end of your journey, a culmination of days filled with exploration, history, and the captivating allure of Egypt's ancient past.
Your first destination is the Saladin Citadel, a remarkable fortress constructed by Salah al-Din in 1183 AD atop the Moqattam Hills. Originally built as a defense against Crusader forces, it now stands as a testament to centuries of history. The citadel offers not only a glimpse into the past but also sweeping panoramic views of Cairo's cityscape. The site houses mosques and museums, including the renowned Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha. This exquisite mosque, designed by the Turkish architect Yousif Boushnaq, stands as a masterful example of architectural craftsmanship. Its alabaster structure contrasts beautifully with the sandstone hues of the city.
Your journey continues to the heart of Old Cairo, where you'll encounter some of the city's most significant landmarks. The Hanging Church, a masterpiece of Coptic architecture, awaits your exploration. Nearby, the Ben Ezra Synagogue holds its own historical significance, reflecting the diverse cultural tapestry of Cairo. Delve further into the past as you visit the Church of St. Barbara and the Church of Abu Serga, the latter being one of Cairo's oldest Coptic churches.
No visit to Cairo is complete without a stop at the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace that has thrived for centuries. Dating back to the 14th century, this bazaar has been the bustling center of Cairo's trading activities. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you explore its winding alleys, discovering a kaleidoscope of goods, from intricate handicrafts to spices and textiles.
Your adventure begins at the break of dawn, with a pick-up scheduled for 06:00 am from your hotel in Giza or Cairo. The allure of Bahariya Oasis awaits, beckoning you to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. Journey to Bahariya Oasis: As the first rays of sunlight paint the sky with hues of gold, you set out on a road trip that promises both scenic vistas and a sense of anticipation. Your destination is Bahariya Oasis, situated approximately 350 kilometers to the east of Cairo. The road stretches ahead, winding through the diverse Egyptian landscape, leading you closer to the oasis. Estimated Arrival at 10:00 am: The drive unfolds over the course of approximately 4 hours, allowing you to absorb the changing landscapes and the charm of the journey. By 10:00 am, you will have arrived at Bahariya Oasis, a haven nestled amidst the arid expanse of the desert.
06:00 am: Enjoy Sunrise The day awakens with the mesmerizing beauty of the sunrise, casting a warm and golden glow across the desert landscape. 07:00 am: Breakfast in the Desert Savor a delicious breakfast in the heart of the desert, an extraordinary experience that connects you with the natural surroundings. 09:00 am: Crystal Mountain As you journey back towards Bahariya Oasis, a visit to Crystal Mountain awaits. Also known as Gebel al-Izzaz, Crystal Mountain is a captivating natural formation that resembles a crystal hill. The quartzite crystals that compose this geological wonder glisten in the sunlight, earning it the title of the "Jewel of the Desert." 11:00 am: Soak in Bir Sigam Hot Spring On your way back to Bahariya Oasis, a stop at Bir Sigam awaits. This natural hot spring offers the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. The therapeutic warmth of the spring's waters soothes your senses
12:00 pm: Drive Back to Cairo Your journey draws to a close as you bid farewell to Bahariya Oasis and begin the drive back to Cairo. The memories of the White Desert's otherworldly landscapes, the vibrant oases, and the captivating crystal formations accompany you on your return journey. Arrival in Cairo: 16:30 As the sun sets and the city lights of Cairo come into view, you arrive back in the bustling metropolis. The contrast between the tranquility of the desert and the urban energy of Cairo is palpable, a reflection of the diverse experiences Egypt has to offer. Overnight in Cairo Retire to your accommodations in Cairo, reflecting on the unique journey you've undertaken. The White Desert's ethereal beauty, the oases' allure, and the desert's hidden gems have left an indelible mark on your exploration of Egypt's natural wonders.
Final Departure: As your Egyptian adventure draws to a close, the morning begins with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. With a mix of memories and experiences, you prepare for your departure. Airport Transfer and Assistance: A representative is at your service, ready to accompany you to the airport. They will provide the necessary assistance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process during your departure formalities. Rest assured, you're in capable hands as you navigate the final steps of your journey. Extend Your Stay: Should you desire to prolong your stay in Cairo, the option is yours to explore. If the captivating charm of Egypt has left you yearning for more, don't hesitate to contact us to discuss extending your time in this vibrant and historically rich city. With the allure of Cairo's streets and the memories of your Egyptian exploration in mind, you embark on the next phase of your journey.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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