11-Day Exploration: Cairo Alexandria Luxor Aswan Bahariya Oasis

Ancient Capitals, Saqqara, and Giza's Grandeur

Begin your day by enjoying a delightful breakfast at your hotel. Afterwards, meet your knowledgeable Egyptologist in the hotel lobby, ready to embark on another immersive journey into Egypt's past.

Visit the Saqqara Pyramid Complex.

Your exploration starts at the Saqqara Pyramid Complex. Read about the profound history of the Unas Pyramid, where you'll explore the first pyramidal texts ever recorded. Witness the groundbreaking Step Pyramid of Djoser, recognized as the first limestone structure built by humanity—a pivotal moment in architectural history. Continue to the Idut Tomb, adorned with vibrant inscriptions that offer fascinating insights into the daily life of ancient Egyptians.

Explore Memphis Proceed to Memphis, the first capital of ancient Egypt. Here, you'll encounter the massive statue of Ramses II, lying impressively in the open-air museum grounds. Stand amidst the birthplace of ancient Egyptian civilization, truly grasping how it all began.

Meet the Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx.

Next, prepare for an unparalleled experience as you approach the Giza Pyramids. Feel the awe-inspiring presence of the Great Pyramid of Cheops. Continue to the Pyramid of Chephren and discover the Queens' Pyramids, the intriguing Solar Boat Pits, the Giza Builders' Tombs, and the Mortuary Temple of Purification. Proceed to the Pyramid of Menkaure and ascend to the Panorama for outstanding photos featuring all six pyramids and the majestic Great Statue of the Sphinx. Finally, come face-to-face with the legendary Sphinx itself, revealing amazing mysteries about ancient Egypt from this iconic pharaonic guard.

Lunch at a local restaurant

Enjoy one of the most delicious dishes from an Egyptian lunch meal at a local restaurant, savoring the rich flavors of the culture.

Restful Evening in Cairo After a day filled with incredible discoveries, you'll be comfortably transferred back to your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, ready for a restful night.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Cairo's Cultural Icons & Historic Heart

Begin your day by enjoying a delightful breakfast at your hotel. Afterwards, meet your knowledgeable Egyptologist in the hotel lobby, ready to continue your exploration of Cairo's rich heritage.

Explore the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC)

Explore the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC), a modern marvel housing a remarkable collection of rare artifacts. The highlight is undoubtedly the Royal Mummies Hall, where you'll come face-to-face with 22 ancient pharaohs, including iconic figures like King Ramses II, Queen Hatshepsut, King Thutmose III, and Queen Ahmose-Nefertari. Your visit offers a profound insight into Egypt's grand past.

Discover the Citadel of Saladin and Mohamed Ali Mosque.

Next, arrive at the imposing Citadel of Saladin, one of the strongest fortresses of the Middle Ages, built in the 12th century. Marvel at its strong fortified walls and towers, beautiful courtyards, and fountains, showcasing unique Islamic architecture. Explore historical mosques within its grounds, most notably the outstanding Mosque of Mohamed Ali. From the Citadel's Panorama, the highest point in Cairo, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the entire city.

A Culinary Experience in Old Cairo

Experience a truly delightful lunch meal at Studio Masri Restaurant in Al-Azhar Park, where rich flavors blend with a wonderful mix of cultures, all set amidst the majesty of Old Cairo.

Admire  El Moez Street & Khan El Khalili Bazaar

After lunch, a short drive brings you to El Moez Street, the vibrant heart of historical Old Cairo. Spend time immersed in the Fatimid and Mamluk atmosphere. Cross through El Ftouh Door, one of the ancient gates that once surrounded Old Cairo in the Fatimid era, and visit Al Hakim Mosque. Explore the Qalawun Complex, featuring its Baramstan, Madrasa, public fountains (Sabiel), and Sultan Inal's Bath. Stroll among stunning historic minarets showcasing exquisite Islamic architecture. The tour culminates with the bustling, historical charm of Khan El Khalili Bazaar—your perfect opportunity to browse for unique souvenirs and handicrafts straight from the heart of history.

After this enriching tour, you'll head back to your hotel for a restful night.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Alexandria's Ancient & Modern Wonders

Start your day with an early wake-up and a delicious breakfast meal at your hotel. Afterwards, meet your Egyptologist in the lobby and settle into your private, air-conditioned modern vehicle for the scenic drive to Alexandria, a journey of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

Arrive at the Library of Alexandria.

Upon reaching Alexandria, your first stop is the magnificent Alexandria Library. Take a captivating tour amidst its vast collection of over 8 million books, explore rare ancient texts, admire exquisite Islamic calligraphy, and discover significant Coptic manuscripts and artifacts spanning the Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, and Islamic periods.

Explore the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.

Next, explore the depths of the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. Here, you'll discover the largest Roman burial site in Egypt, unique for its remarkable blend of Greco-Roman and pharaonic art, showcasing this harmonious fusion for the first time in one incredible site.

Witness Pompey's Pillar and Serapeum Temple.

Continue your exploration by standing beneath the towering Pompey’s Pillar, an impressive monument approximately 26.85 meters (88 feet) in height. You'll also explore the captivating ruins of the ancient Serapeum Temple, a site once dedicated to the Greco-Egyptian deity Serapis.

Seafood Lunch

Enjoy a delightful, freshly cooked local seafood lunch at a high-class restaurant, savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean.

Visit Qaitbay Citadel

Your Alexandria day tour concludes with a visit to the impressive Citadel of Qaitbay. Meet this strongest fortress of the Middle Ages, built in the 15th century, its formidable walls dramatically touched by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Return to Cairo After your enriching day in Alexandria, take your comfortable, air-conditioned seat in the private vehicle for your return journey to Cairo. You'll arrive back at your hotel in Cairo in the evening for a restful night.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Luxor's East Bank Wonders

Your day begins with an early morning pickup from your Cairo hotel. The hotel will provide you with a boxed breakfast before ensuring a comfortable transfer to Cairo Airport for your domestic flight to Luxor. The flight takes approximately one hour, and upon your arrival in Luxor, a private air-conditioned vehicle will be waiting to take you directly to Karnak Temple with your Egyptologist.

Karnak Temple complex

Explore Karnak Temple, "the largest temple in ancient Egypt." Step into the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex, the largest temple in ancient Egypt. Marvel at the Great Hypostyle Hall with its 134 massive columns, discover the serene Sacred Lake, explore hidden chapels, and stand before towering obelisks like those of Hatshepsut and Thutmose I. Your visit will cover the Precinct of Amun-Ra, stroll along a segment of the Avenue of Sphinxes, the Temple of Ptah, the Temple of Khonsu, and the Festival Hall of Thutmose III (Akhmenu). Throughout your exploration, you'll uncover monuments dedicated to over 100 kings and queens from ancient Egypt.

Luxor Temple Visit

Continue your journey into ancient history with a visit to Luxor Temple. Discover the towering seated statues of Ramses II at the temple's entrance. Wander through the First Pylon (Entrance Gate), the impressive Courtyard of Ramses II, the grand Colonnade of Amenhotep II, and the luminous Sun Court of Amenhotep III. Explore the Sanctuary of Alexander the Great and immerse yourself in the secrets surrounding Amenhotep III, whose vision led to the establishment of this magnificent temple, allowing you to go deeply into the heart of ancient Egypt's details.

Lunchtime  & Hotel Check-in Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, experiencing another one of Egypt's most delightful dishes. Afterwards, you'll proceed to your hotel in Luxor for a comfortable check-in, ready to relax after a day of incredible discoveries.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

 Luxor's West Bank & Journey to Aswan

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel. After checking out, meet your Egyptologist in the hotel lobby, ready to embark on another immersive journey into Egypt's past.

Should you wish for an unforgettable early morning hot air balloon ride over the Thebes Necropolis, starting from the Ramesseum Temple, please inform us in advance—this unique experience offers breathtaking views of the ancient sites from above! Note: Hot air balloon rides typically start very early, often before 7:00 AM, and involve an additional cost.)

Explore the Valley of the Kings

Board the electric train and journey into the awe-inspiring Valley of the Kings. Here, amidst the royal tombs, you can visit up to three opened tombs (your Egyptologist will recommend the best ones), exploring magnificent inscriptions from ancient texts like the Book of the Dead, Book of Gates, Book of Caverns, Amduat, and Book of the Heavenly Cow. These vibrant scenes vividly depict the soul's journey, judgment before Osiris, and the rewards of the righteous in the afterlife, offering a profound glimpse into ancient Egyptian beliefs.

Hatshepsut Temple

Next, encounter the dramatic facade of Hatshepsut Temple (Deir el-Bahri Temple), a masterpiece of ancient architecture with its giant columns carved directly into the mountain, divided into three impressive terraces. Discover the well-preserved wall carvings that tell the compelling stories of Queen Hatshepsut’s reign, including her divine birth (used to legitimize her rule), the famous expedition to the Land of Punt, and the dedicated Chapel of Hathor and Anubis.

Colossi of Memnon

Make a brief stop at the iconic Colossi of Memnon, two massive seated statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Uncover their enduring mysteries, including the legendary sounds once said to emanate from their interiors at dawn. These colossal guardians once stood before Amenhotep III's grand mortuary temple, a testament to his power. (Note: There is no entrance fee to see the Colossi of Memnon.)

 Lunch: A tasty lunch meal

awaits you at a local restaurant, providing a perfect break to refuel.

Journey to Aswan After lunch, take your comfortable seat in a private vehicle as you transfer to the Luxor Railway Station. Here, you'll enjoy a VIP train ride to Aswan, a scenic journey that offers a glimpse of the Egyptian landscape as you head south. Upon your arrival at Aswan Train Station in the evening, you'll be comfortably transferred to your hotel in Aswan for check-in and a restful night, ready for more adventures.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Aswan's Engineering & Ancient Wonders, Nubian Culture

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, meet your Egyptologist in the lobby to begin your captivating day tour. Settle into your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as you head towards the Aswan High Dam.

Visit the Aswan High Dam

Discover one of the 20th century's most impressive engineering marvels, the Aswan High Dam. From its towering height, you'll be treated to panoramic views of Lake Nasser, the largest artificial lake in Africa, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Your guide will explain its pivotal role in Egypt's modernization, controlling the Nile's annual floods and generating hydroelectric power.

Visit Philae Temple (by motorboat).

Next, arrive at the Philae port and embark on a scenic motorboat ride across the Nile. Relish the relaxing sail as Philae Temple appears to rise magically from the heart of the Nile, finally landing on Agilkia Island. This magnificent temple, dedicated primarily to the goddess Isis, was meticulously relocated block by block to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. Explore its towering gateway with intricate carvings of Ptolemaic pharaohs smiting enemies, overseen by gods like Horus and Isis. Wander through the grand open courtyard, adorned with beautiful papyrus-style columns, and visit the sacred Inner Sanctuaries of Isis and Osiris.

Sail to the Nubian Village

Following your temple visit, enjoy a picturesque sail to the vibrant Nubian Village.

Arrival at the Nubian Village Step into a world of vibrant colors as you walk through brightly painted homes and charming alleys. Immerse yourself in the unique culture of the Nubians, learning about their rich heritage, daily life, and distinct traditions. Experience a warm welcome with traditional hibiscus tea, and you'll have the option to visit a local home or school, offering a deeper insight into their close-knit community.

Savor Authentic Nubian Food

Experience a truly authentic Nubian food lunch in a local house, surrounded by an outstanding atmosphere that complements the unique flavors of the region. This is a chance to taste traditional dishes and learn about Nubian culinary customs.

Return to Hotel in Aswan

After a day filled with cultural immersion and historical discovery, you'll be comfortably transferred back to your hotel in Aswan, ready to enjoy a restful night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day Eight: Abu Simbel Majesty & Return to Cairo

Your day begins with an early pickup from your Aswan hotel. You'll receive a boxed breakfast and complete your check-out before settling into a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle for the approximately three-hour scenic drive to Abu Simbel.

Explore the Abu Simbel Temples.

Upon arrival, prepare to be awestruck by the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples. Explore the Great Temple of Ramses II, where colossal seated statues, each over 20 meters tall, majestically greet you at the entrance. Walk amongst these giants into a majestic hypostyle hall lined with eight massive Osirid statues of Ramses II. Discover the sacred statues of Ptah, Amun-Ra, Ramses (deified), and Ra-Horakhty, and uncover the remarkable miracle of solar alignment that illuminates the inner sanctuary on specific dates. Afterwards, visit the beautifully preserved Small Temple of Nefertari, dedicated to Ramses II's beloved queen.

After your inspiring tour of Abu Simbel, you'll take your seat in the vehicle for the return journey to Aswan.

Savor Egyptian Flavors & Fly to Cairo

Upon your arrival back in Aswan, enjoy a delicious Egyptian meal at a local restaurant for lunch. Following your meal, you'll be transferred to Aswan Airport for your domestic flight to Cairo. Upon landing in Cairo, a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle will take you directly to your hotel for check-in.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Day Nine: Oasis Adventure & White Desert Camping

Your day begins with an early pickup from your Cairo hotel, where you'll receive a boxed breakfast. Settle into your comfortable, private, air-conditioned vehicle for a journey of approximately four hours to the Bahariya Oasis, including a convenient stop along the way.

Upon arrival, you'll be warmly welcomed into a local Bedouin home for a truly authentic lunch. Savor some of the most delicious, freshly cooked dishes you'll taste in Egypt, prepared by a local Bedouin woman.

Explore the Unique Desert Landscape

After lunch, your desert adventure truly begins! A local Bedouin guide will take you into the desert with a 4x4 vehicle. You'll first explore the striking Black Desert, a landscape entirely covered in black volcanic powder. For amazing panoramic views, you can easily climb the Stacked Mountain.

Continue to El Heiz Village, where you can relax by a cold spring—perfect for unwinding, taking a swim, or enjoying a local drink by the water's edge. Next, marvel at Crystal Mountain, a fantastic spot for capturing unique and unrepeatable photos amidst its geological formations.

Journey through the Aqabat Valley, a fascinating area that was once an ocean floor. Enjoy a leisurely 15-minute stroll amidst the mountains, try your hand at sandboarding for 30 exhilarating minutes, and sample local delights like hibiscus, dates, and chocolate.

Finally, arrive at the Old White Desert for breathtaking panoramic photos before a short 30-minute drive leads you to the New White Desert—your campsite for the night. Here, you'll relish a delicious BBQ dinner amidst the joyful festival atmosphere of the Bedouins, under a canopy of stars that promises an unparalleled view of the Milky Way.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Departure from Cairo

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel.

At your leisure, complete your hotel check-out. Afterwards, you will be comfortably transferred to Cairo International Airport in a private, air-conditioned vehicle for your departure, marking the end of your incredible 11-day exploration of Egypt.

Meals: Breakfast