Discover the best of Egypt on this awe-inspiring 16-day guided tour, taking in the highlights of Alexandria, the legendary Pyramids of Giza, Aswan, Luxor and the Commonwealth War Graves of El Alamein. Relax on a felucca as you cruise the Nile, uncover the ancient wonders of Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple and Philae Temple. Bask in the sun for few days by the stunning Red Sea in Hurghada.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Alexandria sightseeing
Cairo – Alexandria. Today we drive to the Mediterranean coast and discover the beautiful port city of Alexandria. We explore the ancient Roman Catacombs, rediscovered in 1900, they're the largest of catacombs in Egypt. As we make our way to Citadel of Qaitbay, we visit Pompey’s Pillar and see the incredible Library of Alexandria (exterior). The Qaitbay fortress was built on the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the seven Wonder of the Ancient World. A powerful earthquake struck the lighthouse in 1323AD, and the stones recovered from the ruin were used to build this famous citadel. After our sightseeing there's time to freshen up at the hotel before we head out for dinner this evening.
Overnight: Alexandria | Breakfast, Dinner
El Alamein
Alexandria – Cairo. Our morning starts with a visit the El Alamein. Known for its sobering Commonwealth War Graves, El Alamein witnessed two bloody battles during the Second World War. Approximately 13,000 allied soldiers were killed and 70,000 were wounded as they defeated the Axis powers. The victory ensured the threats to Egypt and the strategically important Suez Canal was eliminated. As we continue with our tour, we will stop to pay our respect to the fallen soldiers and learn more about the battles once fought on this ground. After our visit to the El Alamein Military museum, we return to Cairo.
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast, Lunch
Free Time in Cairo
Today is spent at leisure, you can explore Egypt’s capital as you please. Perhaps explore the lesser-known sights of the city by taking our optional Backstreet of Cairo tour. On this tour wander down El Moez street in Islamic Cairo, visit Garbage City and the famous cave church of St Simon.
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
Pyramids of Giza & Saqqara
We start our day with a visit to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, Egypt’s most famous attraction. The Pyramids of Giza are the only surviving Ancient Wonder of the World. Marvel at the colossal structure of Cheops, the largest of the pyramids, which was the tallest man-made building on Earth for 3,800 years. We continue to the necropolis of Saqqara to set our sights on the famous stepped Pyramid of Zhoser, the world's earliest stone monument, which dates back to 2700BC.
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
Grand Egyptian Museum
Cairo – Aswan. Today’s excursion takes us to the Grand Egyptian Museum. Situated just 2km from the pyramids, it houses an impressive collection of artifacts from across ancient Egypt’s diverse history. Many of its wonderful exhibits have never been on public display and many more have been recalled to the museum from across Egypt and the rest of the world. The museum is home to a full exhibition dedicated to the treasure of Tutankhamun and history comes to live with the use of modern technology including virtual reality.
Once our guided tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum ends, we make our way to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation to visit the incredible Royal Mummies’ Hall, where the mummified ancient Egyptian kings and queens are displayed. We head back to our hotel with time to relax and unwind before we board our night train to Aswan.
Please Note: The Grand Egyptian Museum is scheduled to open in late 2024, though an official opening date has yet to be released. If travelling prior to the opening of the new facility, we'll visit the Egyptian Museum instead.
Overnight: Sleeper Train | Breakfast
Aswan & Philae Temple
We arrive into Aswan this morning and our sightseeing begins with a visit to the breath-takingly beautiful Philae Temple. A boat will transfer us to Agilika Island to explore the site. In 1960 UNESCO started a project to preserve the temple from the ever-increasing waters of the Nile, the intact ancient building was carefully relocated from its original location to Agilika. Our final stop today is a fragrant one, as we stop at a perfume oil emporium. This evening is free to spend exploring Aswan – why not head over to experience the hustle and bustle of the vibrant market.
Overnight: Aswan | Breakfast
Optional Abu Simbel & Felucca Sailing
Aswan - Nile felucca cruise. This morning there's an optional excursion to the spectacular temple of Abu Simbel, built by Ramses II and famously guarded by 4 colossal statues of the pharaoh himself. Later, we continue our journey onboard a traditional felucca for a relaxing 2-night cruise down the Nile. Alternatively consider upgrading to a 5-star luxury Nile cruise, please see the tab above for prices. For more information about Nile Cruising please click here.
Overnight: Felucca Cruise | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Felucca Sailing & Kom Ombo
Nile felucca cruise – Kom Ombo. Relax onboard the felucca as we make our way to next destination. This afternoon we disembark near Kom Ombo and visit its perfectly symmetrical temple, which is dedicated to two gods; the falcon god Horus and the Crocodile god Sobek. We then return to our felucca for our final night on board, sleeping on deck under a blanket of stars.
Overnight: Felucca Cruise | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Luxor
Kom Ombo – Luxor. This morning we disembark the felucca and make our way to Luxor, home of the legendary Valley of the Kings and Temple of Karnak. The rest of the day is free to spend at leisure, relaxing by the hotel pool. This evening there's an optional excursion to Luxor Temple, where hundreds of lights bring this spectacular temple to life.
Overnight: Luxor | Breakfast
Valley of the Kings
Luxor- Cairo. This morning our journey takes us to the West Bank and the incredible Valley of the Kings, where we visit the tombs of famous pharaohs and take in the beauty of the well-preserved vibrant colors. The best known tombs are those of Ramses II, Seti I, Amenhotep II and of course, the tomb of King Tutankhamun. If open, an additional entrance fee applies to visit King Tuts' tomb.
We also set our sights on the Colossi of Memnon and explore the beautiful temple of Egypt’s second female pharaoh, Queen Hatshepsut before returning to our hotel at midday.
Later this afternoon we discover the majestic Karnak Temple, dominated by the great Temple of Amun-ra, one of the largest religious buildings in the world. The construction of this temple took over 1,500 years and showcases contributions from around 30 different pharaohs. All dedicated to the Theban gods and to the greater glory of Egypt’s Middle and New Kingdom rulers. The evening is free to spent at leisure.
Overnight: Luxor | Breakfast
Luxor - Hurghada
Luxor - Hurghada. Today we depart Luxor and drive east to Hurghada, part of the beautiful Red Sea Riviera, for 3 days by the beach!
Overnight: Hurghada | Breakfast
Hurghada
We are in Hurghada for the next two days, simply relax and take in the beautiful scenery. There will also be the opportunity to join an optional excursion to Giftun Island for swimming and snorkelling.
Hurghada is one of the most popular Red Sea resorts, extending across 36kms with beautiful beaches and azure water, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing stay There's excellent aquatic facilities for sail boarding, yachting, deep-sea fishing, SCUBA diving and snorkelling, with some of the world's finest offshore reefs. Hurghada also has plenty of restaurants and late-night bars for evening entertainment. Just outside Hurghada is an ancient Roman quarry called Mons Porphyritis and Port Safarga – a famously windy place which is ideal for windsurfing.
Overnight: Hurghada | Breakfast x 1
Hurghada - Cairo
Hurghada – Cairo. This morning we make our way back to Cairo. The rest of today is free to relax and explore Cairo at leisure, or there's an optional visit to Khan El Khalili bazaar, where you can shop for any last-minute souvenirs.
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
Cairo
Our ancient exploration of Egypt tour comes to an end after breakfast and a hotel check-out, you’ll be transferred to Cairo airport.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates marked with a 'G' are operating. All dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to solo travellers or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
Extra Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Holiday Inn Cairo Maadi, Cairo
Overlooking the Nile and offering distant views of the Great Pyramids of Giza, this Holiday Inn provides the perfect location for your stay in Cairo. Each guestroom features a balcony (not Nile View as standard) and is well-equipped with modern amenities including free WiFi. Evenings can be spent enjoying international or Egyptian cuisine and unwinding with a cocktail at one of the hotel’s bars. Thanks to the friendly hotel staff, you’ll soon feel at home. And with panoramic views of the city from the rooftop lounge and pool, there’s no better place to base yourself for exploring Egypt’s ancient wonders.
Sleeper Train, Cairo
When travelling on an overnight train in Egypt, sleeper carriages offer the highest level of comfort. Cabins are equipped with two beds (one above the other), a basin, electric points and air conditioning. Freshly laundered bedding is provided and in the early evening an attendant will come round and make up your bed for you. The carriages have toilets at each end and there is a club car which serves snacks and beverages. In the morning a very basic breakfast is provided.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Cairo
Radisson Blu is in the Heliopolis area of Cairo, just 3 kms from Cairo International Airport. Providing spacious, well appointed guest rooms with amenities such as a daily newspaper and turndown service, the hotel is the perfect oasis for guests visiting the city. Its two restaurants, lobby lounge, and gourmet bakery offer a range of culinary choices. To top it all off, the hotel boasts a rooftop spa and pool with panoramic Cairo views.
Holiday Inn City Stars, Cairo
The Holiday Inn Cairo City Stars Hotel is an ideal base for exploring the modern and historic attractions of Egypt's capital. Rooms are spacious, offering a flatscreen TV and private bathroom. There are restaurants on site, including the rooftop garden that offers panoramic views of the city.
Paradise Inn Le Metropole, Alexandria
Le Metropole is one of the oldest in Alexandria and is a superb example of 18th century architecture. The rooms are are cozy and well appointed.
Tolip Hotel, Aswan
Set in manicured gardens, the Helnan Aswan is an elegant hotel with impressive views of the Nile. Guest rooms are spacious with modern interiors and located next to the beautiful pool. Wi-fi is available in the lobby and by the pool. There are also two restaurants and bars, a bowling alley, a swimming pool and a cinema. Why not relax by the pool before exploring the rest of Aswan.
Felucca Sailboat, Felucca Cruise
Feluccas are simple, traditional Egyptian sailboats that have plied the Nile since ancient times. Feluccas carry between 10 - 12 passengers comfortably. The boat’s deck is draped with soft colourful cushions that serve as your lounging area during the day and as your sleeping area at night. A support boat travels alongside your felucca and is on hand if you need to use the toilet. The support boat is also where your meals are prepared and eaten. You'll need to bring a sleeping bag/sheet (or hire for a nominal cost) and a towel with you. The crew, as well as being experienced sailors, are responsible for the preparation of the included meals.
Sonesta St. George Hotel, Luxor
An elegant and luxurious classical hotel, the Sonesta's sophistication will ensure you a comfortable stay. The hotel has a sweeping terrace with fantastic views of the Nile, a grand entrance of polished marble and handsomely appointed furnishings with exquisite detail and a beautiful health spa. All its rooms offer views of the city or the river, complemented by a wide range of restaurants and cafes. Just minutes away you will find the temples at Luxor and Karnak, home to two of ancient Egypt's most famed sanctuaries.
Steigenberger Nile Palace, Luxor
The Steigenburger Nile Palace is a grand hotel and stylishly furnished, with many rooms overlooking the Nile River. The hotel has a health club with massage rooms, sauna, steam room and fitness room, and a tennis court on the roof, not to mention a riverside pool. Its four restaurants offer a choice between Nubian, Lebanese, Italian, and Thai cuisine.
Swiss Inn Resort Hurghada, Hurghada
Set in tropical gardens, the Swiss Inn Resort makes for a comfortable and relaxing stay. The property is equipped with large swimming pools and a private beach. All rooms have a balcony or terrace with views of the garden, pools or sea. Guests can work out in the onsite fitness centre, get active at the watersports centre, enjoy a game of tennis or simply relax with a drink in one of the many bars or lounges.
Marriott Beach Resort, Hurghada
The Marriott Beach Resort is a luxurious beachfront hotel, with every room enjoying a view of the Red Sea and Hurghada city centre just a few minutes drive away. There is a choice of 8 restaurants and bars for hungry travellers, and a health club, tennis & squash courts, and fitness centre to stay in shape. During the day, soak in the heated outdoor pool or book a watersport activity. The hotel even has its own private island if you fancy a massage among the palm trees.
Continental Hotel, Hurghada
Tucked into Hurghada Bay, right on its scenic promenade, the Continental is a delightful beachfront resort boasting fantastic terraced rooms (many with seaviews) and excellent facilities. Watersports are in abundance here with swimming pools, scuba diving and snorkelling all readily available. A leisure club offers a sauna and spa treatments to relax after the day's activities. You can also wine and dine at one of the many great restaurants and bars.
Prices & Dates
The Nile Cruise Upgrade version of this tour includes 3 nights on board a 5 star Nile Cruiser (en suite cabin) in place of the felucca. For full details, please refer to the 'Nile Cruise Upgrade Trip Notes', in the right hand column for details.
Read MoreExtra Prices
At a Glance
