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This 10 day tour, starts and ends in Cairo, Egypt. The Pyramids, the Sphinx, Egyptian Museum and the Nile Valley, relax on a felucca to Luxor and then onto the Red Sea at Hurghada. The tour ends back in Cairo.
Upon your arrival, our team will warmly welcome you at the airport, aiding with visa formalities and luggage, followed by transferring you to your hotel to commence your journey. They will facilitate your settling-in process, familiarize you with the surroundings, and detail tomorrow's itinerary.
The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. If time permits, you may opt for an evening Nile dinner cruise or attend a mesmerizing sound and light show at the pyramids, both conveniently available for booking upon arrival to immerse yourself in the local experiences.
Our journey through Egypt commences with a drive to Giza, just outside Cairo, to explore the enigmatic Sphinx and the renowned trio of pyramids. Accompanied by a knowledgeable Egyptologist guide, these ancient wonders offer a fascinating glimpse into Egypt's rich history. The Great Pyramid of Khufu astounds with its colossal stone blocks and weathered limestone exterior. Along with the smaller pyramids of Khafre (Chephern) and Menkaure (Mycerinus), the grandeur of these structures emerging from the desert remains awe-inspiring.
For those interested, the opportunity to venture inside the pyramids is available, although guides cannot accompany due to limited a tickets for the Great Pyramid. Subsequently, our journey leads us to the Egyptian Museum, housing a remarkable array of ancient relics, including the captivating Tutankhamun exhibit.
Later in the evening, we transfer to the station for an overnight sleeper train voyage to Aswan, an approximate 12-hour journey. Enjoy dinner in your private twin-berth compartments before settling in for the night as the steward prepares your sleeping arrangements.
Upon arrival in Aswan, we transfer to our hotel, overlooking the Nile River's picturesque beauty, adorned with lush green islands and traditional feluccas gliding across its waters. Aswan, a cultural confluence of Africa and the Middle East, offers an immersive experience through its bustling markets, reflecting the region's rich heritage. We'll venture into a local Nubian village, where colorful homes adorn the landscape and a traditional lunch awaits.
Our afternoon unfolds with a visit, by a scenic boat ride, to the Temple of Philae, an island sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Isis, preserved from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. As evening descends, explore Aswan's vibrant spice and general markets, stroll along the Corniche, or embark on an optional camel ride through the sands on the far bank of the Nile.
This morning, an early departure awaits those embarking on an optional excursion to Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its majestic temples built by Ramses II. The aim is to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the rising sun casting its golden glow upon these ancient monuments.
As lunchtime approaches, we board our traditional Nile felucca, embarking on a leisurely afternoon sail down the Nile River. Floating along the tranquil waters, we immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape, observing the rhythms of rural Egyptian life unfolding along the riverbanks. Our expert Nubian crew expertly navigates the felucca, entertaining us with their stories and preparing delectable meals for our enjoyment. Throughout the day, our separate facilities boat will rendezvous with us, providing welcome restrooms, showers, and a hygienic kitchen.
As dusk descends, we settle onto the felucca's deck, our sleeping arrangements prepared with mattresses, blankets, and mosquito nets. This unique experience offers a glimpse into the simple yet enchanting lifestyle of those who live along the Nile. For those seeking a more comfortable night's rest, an optional upgrade is available to return to the Aswan hotel, rejoining the group the following morning.
Following a delightful breakfast aboard the felucca, we bid farewell to our Nubian crew and embark on a visit to the nearby Temple of Edfu, a magnificent Ptolemaic temple dedicated to the falcon god Horus. Our journey then continues northward towards Luxor, a city steeped in ancient history, built upon the ruins of the once-majestic Thebes.
Luxor is renowned for its unparalleled concentration of ancient wonders, surpassing even the Valley of the Kings. To the west of the Nile River lies the vast necropolis known as the City of the Dead, adorned with awe-inspiring mortuary temples and rock-hewn tombs. Across the river, the imposing Temples of Luxor and Karnak stand as testaments to the grandeur of ancient Egypt.
We settle into our luxurious 5-star hotel, nestled on the banks of the Nile River, where the afternoon invites relaxation and rejuvenation by the shimmering pool. As dusk descends, we embark on an enchanting walking tour of the Luxor Temple, illuminated by the soft glow of evening lights. This smaller temple, situated in the heart of the city, offers a captivating glimpse into the architectural brilliance of the ancient world.
As the sun casts its first light upon the horizon, our expedition unfolds on the mystical shores of the Nile, unveiling Luxor's West Bank treasures. The Valley of the Kings, shrouded in enigma, reveals a sacred nexus of ancient burial chambers, echoing the narratives of revered Pharaonic rulers. Our voyage immerses us in the hallowed depths of several royal tombs, each a testament to an enduring legacy.
The splendid Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an architectural marvel attributed to the legendary female Pharaoh, graces our itinerary. We journey through Deir-el-Medina, the Valley of the Craftsmen, unveiling the lives of artisans who shaped Egypt's wonders. The stoic Colossi of Memnon, colossal statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, command admiration with their silent watchfulness.
For those seeking an aerial odyssey, an optional hot air balloon flight offers a mesmerizing perspective of the West Bank's ancient panorama, blanketed in the hues of sunrise. Following a delightful lunch, we venture into the grandeur of the Karnak Temple Complex, the spiritual nucleus of Thebes and Upper Egypt. Adorned with sphinx-lined avenues and monumental pylon gates, this divine sanctuary housed the god Amun's sacred barques. The monumental Hypostyle Hall, boasting 134 towering columns adorned with ancient stories, and soaring obelisks etched with hieroglyphs, narrate the grandeur of Egypt's timeless civilization
After indulging in a leisurely morning, we bid farewell to the Nile Valley and embark on a scenic drive to the enchanting Red Sea resort of Hurghada. Upon arrival, we check into our luxurious 5-star resort, where a world of relaxation and recreation awaits. Your stay here includes a delightful 'soft all inclusive' package, encompassing all meals, soft drinks, and snacks, ensuring a carefree and enjoyable stay. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the package.
Your Red Sea haven awaits with a day at your leisure to soak up the sun, sand, and serene ambiance of Hurghada. This vibrant resort town is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a haven for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Embark on underwater adventures, wind surfing and kite surfing, glass bottomed submarines, quad biking, camel rides and sea fishing trips, explore the captivating marina, or venture into the old town for a taste of local charm.
Our Egyptian escapade culminates with a journey back to Cairo, retracing our path through the captivating landscapes. Upon reaching Cairo, we check into our city-centre hotel, where the vibrant pulse of this metropolis awaits our exploration. For those seeking a more leisurely journey, an upgrade to an internal flight is available upon request.
As the afternoon unfolds, we embark on an enchanting guided stroll through the labyrinthine alleyways and bustling bazaars of Old Cairo. Our footsteps traverse the grand Bab al-Futuh gateway, immersing us in a tapestry of sights, sounds, and aromas. We meander through streets dedicated to an array of crafts, from intricate metalwork and aromatic sices to vibrant pottery, exquisite fabrics, and gleaming jewellery.
As we delve deeper into the Khan-el-Khalili bazaar, a cacophony of colours, sounds, and enticing scents engulfs us. We pause to savour a refreshing cup of mint tea, accompanied by the gentle bubbling of a shisha pipe. This delightful interlude offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on our Egyptian odyssey and gather unique souvenirs to cherish. As the sun begins to set, we bid farewell to the captivating streets of Old Cairo, carrying with us memories that will forever be etched in our minds..
As your Egyptian adventure draws to a close, your final day is at your leisure for last-minute explorations or souvenir hunting before your departure. If your flight departs in the afternoon or evening, you have the option to embark on a half-day tour of Coptic Cairo and the Citadel, or immerse yourself in the fascinating world of pyramid construction on a half-day tour to Saqqara, Dahshur, and Memphis. For those seeking a more extended stay, additional nights in Cairo can be arranged, allowing you to venture further afield, such as a day trip to Alexandria or a desert expedition to Wadi Rayan. Whether you choose to explore the city, delve into Egypt’s history, or venture into the desert, your final day offers an opportunity to create lasting memories and bid farewell to Egypt with a heart full of wonder.
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