Egypt Itinerary 11 Day Pyramids, Bahariya Oasis, and Nile Cruise 

Morning Fuel & Ancient Wonders Awake: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel, preparing for a day that plunges you into the heart of ancient Egyptian grandeur.

Giza Pyramids Complex: Stepping into Eternity Your Giza Pyramids tour is an absolute highlight of any Egypt itinerary, offering an unparalleled encounter with the only remaining Ancient Wonder of the World. Delve deep into the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom as you stand before the colossal Pyramid of Cheops (Khufu), the Pyramid of Chephren (Khafre), and the Pyramid of Menkaure. Witness these engineering miracles up close, marveling at their sheer scale. You'll also explore the intriguing Satellite Pyramids (Queens' Pyramids) and the ancient Boat Pits, revealing more about royal burials and daily life.

The Valley Temple: Rituals of Immortality: Next, visit the solemn Valley Temple, often referred to as the Mummification Temple. Located strategically near the Nile, this sacred site is where priests performed the vital mummification rituals and the "Opening of the Mouth" ceremony on the pharaoh's body, preparing them for their journey into the afterlife.

The Great Sphinx: Guardian of Secrets: Stand in awe before the enigmatic Great Sphinx, the massive statue with a human head and a powerful lion's body. Still one of the biggest mysteries for archaeologists, ponder its ancient secrets: Was it a solitary guardian, or did a female sphinx once accompany it? Who truly carved this iconic sentinel of the sands?

Lunch at a Local Restaurant: After immersing yourselves in the awe-inspiring Giza Plateau, enjoy a flavorful lunch at a local restaurant, allowing you to relax and savor authentic Egyptian cuisine before your next discovery.

National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC): A Journey Through Time: Conclude your day with a captivating visit to the NMEC. This modern museum offers a profound journey through Egypt's entire history. On its lower level, you'll find the awe-inspiring Royal Mummies Hall, home to 22 famous pharaohs, including the legendary Ramses. The upper level showcases a rich collection of Egyptian artifacts, beautifully displaying both ancient and modern Islamic heritage, offering a comprehensive view of this incredible civilization.

Meals Included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch

Morning Departure & Oasis Bound: Savor a delicious breakfast at your Cairo hotel, energizing yourself for the start of your exhilarating two-day journey into Egypt's mystical Western Desert. A comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle will be waiting to transport you on an approximately four-hour scenic drive to the Bahariya Oasis, with a refreshing short break along the way.

Authentic Oasis Welcome & Desert Immersion: Warm hospitality awaits you upon arrival at the Bahariya Oasis. Settle in for a delightful homemade lunch at a local house, savoring authentic flavors that reflect the oasis culture. After lunch, prepare for an unforgettable desert tour as you switch to a rugged 4x4 vehicle, ready to explore the unique landscapes.

Desert Wonders Unveiled: Your adventure begins with a drive through the captivating Black Desert, where volcanic hills rise strikingly from the sands. Continue to El Heiz Village, a charming oasis settlement known for its refreshing cold spring—a perfect stop for a moment of tranquility. Next, marvel at the geological wonders of Crystal Mountain, where a natural archway shimmers with quartz crystals. Explore the mysterious Aqabat Area, famous for its bizarre and beautiful wind-carved rock formations that seem to tell ancient stories.

Dunes, Adrenaline & White Desert Magic: Experience the thrill of the desert as you traverse expansive dunes, with an opportunity for exhilarating sandboarding for the adventurous at heart. As the day progresses, you'll reach the iconic Old White Desert, a surreal landscape of chalk-white rock formations sculpted by millennia of wind and sand.

White Desert Camping & Starlit Dinner: As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with fiery hues, your private camp in the White Desert will be prepared. Experience the true magic of the desert night with a freshly cooked, delicious BBQ dinner under a canopy of a million stars. Spend a truly unforgettable overnight stay in this tranquil, remote wilderness, with comfortable camping facilities ensuring a peaceful night's rest.

Meals Included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• B.B.Q Dinner (at the camp)

Sunrise & Desert Breakfast: Wake up to the serene beauty of the White Desert. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your private campsite, surrounded by the otherworldly landscape as the desert colors shift with the rising sun.

New White Desert Discovery: After fueling up, your 4x4 adventure continues in the enchanting New White Desert. Prepare to be mesmerized by its iconic and unique chalk formations, sculpted by millennia of wind and sand. Your guide will lead you to renowned spots, including the intriguing Rabbit formation, the distinctive Cones, the whimsical Chicken, and the fascinating Valley of Tables, where flat-topped formations resemble ancient dining surfaces. Each turn reveals a new, fantastical natural sculpture, making for incredible photo opportunities and unforgettable memories.

Lunch in Bahariya Oasis: After an exhilarating morning exploring the New White Desert, you'll head back to the Bahariya Oasis. Here, you'll enjoy a well-deserved and delicious lunch at a local establishment, offering a chance to refresh and reflect on your desert adventures.

Journey Back to Cairo: Following lunch, you'll begin your comfortable, air-conditioned drive back to Cairo. The journey takes approximately four hours, allowing you to relax and soak in the changing landscapes as you transition from the tranquil desert back to the bustling capital.

Overnight in Cairo: Upon arrival in Cairo, you'll be transferred to your hotel for a smooth check-in. Enjoy a relaxing evening and an overnight stay, recuperating from your desert expedition.

Meals Included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner (at your hotel in Cairo)

Morning Flight to Luxor & Riverside Welcome: After a delightful breakfast at your Cairo hotel, you'll depart early for Cairo International Airport to catch your short, convenient internal flight to Luxor. Upon arrival in this ancient city, your expert Egyptologist guide will greet you, ready to embark on an extraordinary exploration of Luxor's iconic East Bank.

Karnak Temple: The Grandest Open-Air Museum: Your Luxor adventure begins at the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious site ever built in the world. Step inside and immerse yourself in over 2,000 years of history. Your tour will reveal incredible feats of ancient Egyptian architecture, monumental sculpture, and profound religious expression. Wander among its colossal columns, grand pylons, and sacred lakes. You'll tour the complex wall reliefs that depict ancient rituals and daily life, gaining deep insights into the beliefs of the pharaohs. Don't miss the distinct temples within the complex, such as the Ptah Temple, Khonsu Temple, Mut Temple, and the Osiris Chapel. Marvel at the impressive Festival Hall of Thutmose III and the stunning barque shrines of Ramesses III. The sheer scale of the Great Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 towering columns, is a truly humbling sight. Also, be sure to see the sacred Scarab, the peaceful Sacred Lake, the intriguing Botanical Garden, and the unique Red Chapel of Hatshepsut and White Chapel of Senusret I.

Nile Cruise Check-in & Riverside Lunch: At the conclusion of your captivating Karnak exploration, you'll be transferred to your awaiting Nile cruise ship. Enjoy a smooth check-in process and settle into your cabin. A delicious lunch will be served on board, offering a relaxing interlude after your morning of discovery.

Luxor by Night: Temple Illumination & Ancient Glory: As evening falls, prepare for a truly magical experience. The Luxor Temple remains open until nightfall, transforming into a breathtaking sight when beautifully illuminated. Marvel at its majestic facade, built primarily by two of the New Kingdom's greatest pharaohs, Amenhotep III and Ramesses the Great, with contributions from Tutankhamun, Horemheb, and Hatshepsut. Witness the vibrant reliefs depicting the famous Kadesh battle, the captivating Divine Birth of Amenhotep III, and the lively Opet Festival Hall. Be sure to seek out the incredible Luxor Cache (a collection of unearthed statues), the colossal six statues of Ramesses the Great, the soaring Obelisk, and the unique Chapel of Alexander the Great. The play of light and shadow on these ancient stones creates an ethereal atmosphere, allowing you to experience the temple in a completely new and unforgettable way.

Meals Included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Morning Breakfast & West Bank Expedition: Begin your day with a delightful breakfast on board your Nile cruise, energized and ready for another fascinating exploration. Your expert Egyptologist guide will then join you to embark on a captivating tour of Luxor's renowned West Bank, the ancient "City of the Dead."

Valley of the Kings: Secrets of the Afterlife: A definite must-see in Egypt, the Valley of the Kings served as the clandestine burial ground for nearly all the pharaohs of the New Kingdom, from the 18th to the 20th dynasties. Legendary rulers whose tombs were once believed to be untouched, such as the famous discovery of Tutankhamun's intact tomb, reside in this region. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the "Curse of the Pharaohs" and the ancient grave robbers as you explore. The walls within these subterranean tombs are covered with breathtaking hieroglyphic inscriptions and scenes from sacred texts like The Book of the Dead, The Book of Imyduat, The Book of Night, The Book of Heavenly Cow, and The Opening of the Mouth, detailing the pharaohs' journey to the afterlife. Your entrance ticket allows you to visit three of the open tombs, and your Egyptologist will expertly guide you to the most remarkable ones, such as those of King Ramesses V, Ramesses I, Ramesses X, Ramesses XI, Merenptah, or King Ramesses III. After this profound experience, you will proceed to your next discovery.

Hatshepsut Temple: A Queen's Enduring Legacy: Next, marvel at the unique Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari. Designed by her brilliant engineer Senenmut, this temple is truly exceptional in its multi-terraced design and harmonious blend with the dramatic cliff face. Here, you can witness exquisite reliefs depicting ancient Egyptian agriculture, vibrant trade missions (like the famed Punt Expedition), fishing practices, and even details of the clothing from that era. Beyond the historical narratives, the temple boasts charming chapels dedicated to the goddesses Hathor and Anubis, and an impressive avenue of sphinxes, all testament to the powerful propaganda of one of Egypt's few female pharaohs and her "Divine Birth" story.

Colossi of Memnon: Sentinels of Time: Conclude your West Bank exploration with a captivating photo stop at the Colossi of Memnon. Spend a few minutes in front of these two massive stone statues, second in size only to those at Abu Simbel. These imposing figures, depicting Pharaoh Amenhotep III in a seated position with his mother and wife, once guarded the entrance to his now-ruined mortuary temple. Learn from your guide how a powerful earthquake in 27 BC caused cracks, leading the Greeks to attribute their mournful sounds to the mythical Memnon. Capture some incredible photos of these ancient guardians.

Return to Cruise & Nile Sailing to Edfu: After your remarkable day exploring the West Bank, you'll return to your Nile Cruise for a well-deserved lunch. Following this, your cruise will begin its serene sailing towards Edfu City, allowing you to relax on deck and enjoy the ever-changing riverside scenery.

Overnight on Board: Enjoy a relaxing evening and dinner as your cruise continues its journey.

Meals Included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Early Morning Charm & Horse-Drawn Ride to Edfu: Begin your day with an early departure from the cruise before breakfast, setting off for an enchanting visit to the Temple of Horus. Experience a touch of local charm as you embark on a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride, a delightful journey through the bustling streets of Edfu, leading you directly to the temple gates.

Edfu Temple: A Perfectly Preserved Masterpiece: Step into the magnificent Edfu Temple, a stunning example of a Pharaonic temple from the Greco-Roman period, alongside Dendera, considered among the best-preserved in all of ancient Egypt. Your Egyptologist will guide you through its grand courtyards and halls, revealing some of the finest wall reliefs in Egypt. Discover intricate scenes depicting ancient festivals, particularly the joyful "Good Union" between Horus and Hathor. Most powerfully, you'll witness the dramatic and complete depiction of the mythical struggle between Horus and Seth, with the crucial intervention of Isis, bringing the ancient legends to life. After this profound visit, return by horse carriage to your Nile cruise for a well-deserved breakfast as the ship begins its scenic sail towards Kom Ombo.

Kom Ombo Temple: The Unique Dual Sanctuary: Upon arrival at Kom Ombo, disembark to explore the truly unique Kom Ombo Temple, dramatically situated on the east bank of the Nile. This extraordinary temple stands out for its twin entrances, symmetrical layout, and dual sanctuaries, dedicated to two powerful gods: Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility and creation, and Horus the Elder (Haroeris), the falcon-headed sky god. Learn about its extended construction, begun by King Ptolemy V and further embellished by succeeding Ptolemaic and Roman emperors. Here, you'll find remarkable reliefs found nowhere else, including detailed depictions of ancient surgical instruments, an accurate calendar, and the unique division of the temple by the goddess Ma'at. Explore the fascinating "Sanatorium," or ancient hospital, the vital Nilometer (used to measure the Nile's flood levels), and the intriguing Crocodile Museum, home to numerous mummified crocodiles, offering a chilling insight into Sobek's worship.

Nile Cruise & Scenic Sail: After your immersive temple visits, return to the tranquility of your Nile Cruise. Relax and enjoy the remainder of the day as your ship continues its graceful sailing along the Nile.

Meals Included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Early Morning Departure to Abu Simbel (Optional Excursion): Your day begins with an early departure to witness the truly breathtaking Abu Simbel Temples, one of Egypt's most magnificent and iconic sites, nestled deep in Nubia. Travel by comfortable air-conditioned vehicle or domestic flight (depending on package inclusion) to reach these colossal rock-cut temples.

The Great Temple of Ramesses the Great: Stand in awe before the four colossal seated statues of Ramesses II, carved directly into the mountainside. Step inside to explore the grand hypostyle halls and sanctuaries adorned with vibrant reliefs depicting his military victories and divine connections.

Hathor Temple (Nefertari Temple): Adjacent to the great temple, discover the equally impressive temple dedicated to Ramesses II's beloved wife, Queen Nefertari, and the goddess Hathor. Its facade features striking statues of the queen and pharaoh, a testament to their devotion.

Return to Cruise & Lunch: After your awe-inspiring visit to Abu Simbel, you'll return to your Nile cruise ship in Aswan for a well-deserved and delicious lunch.

Aswan High Dam: A Modern Marvel: Following lunch, embark on your tour of Aswan's modern marvels. Your first stop is the Aswan High Dam, a monumental achievement of 20th-century engineering, completed in 1971. While its construction brought significant benefits, it also necessitated the remarkable relocation of ancient temples, including the nearby Kalabsha Temple, which you can glimpse from the dam's panoramic viewpoint. Also, see the Egyptian-Soviet Friendship Monument, honoring the joint efforts behind this colossal project.

Philae Temple: Jewel of the Nile: Next, journey to the captivating Philae Temple, a true jewel among Upper Egypt's Pharaonic temples. Dedicated primarily to the goddess Isis, this Greco-Roman-era temple was meticulously relocated from Philae Island to Agilkia Island to preserve it from the rising Nile waters. You'll take a short, scenic motorboat ride to reach the island, where you can explore unique architectural features such as the Mammisi (birth house), the beautiful colonnades, remnants of a Coptic church, intriguing French graffiti left by early travelers, and the two obelisks that played a role in the decipherment of hieroglyphs.

Unfinished Obelisk: A Glimpse into Ancient Craftsmanship: Conclude your Aswan exploration with a visit to the ancient Granite Quarries, home to the famous Unfinished Obelisk. This short but fascinating stop reveals the secrets of ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques. Witness the colossal obelisk still attached to the bedrock, abandoned due to a crack, and imagine the sheer scale of the labor involved. See the marks of ancient tools and, if you're adventurous, climb the nearby wooden steps for a better view and photo opportunities.

Return to Nile Cruise & Overnight: After a day filled with monumental sights, return to the comfort of your Nile Cruise for a relaxing evening and overnight stay in Aswan.

Meals Included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Morning Farewell & Flight to Cairo: Enjoy your final breakfast on board your Nile Cruise in Aswan. After checking out, you'll be comfortably transferred to Aswan Airport to catch your domestic flight back to Cairo, bringing you back to the bustling capital for your final adventures.

Arrival in Cairo & Grand Egyptian Museum Immersion: Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will be met by your expert guide and transferred directly to the highlight of your day: the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), also known as the Giza Museum. Prepare to be awe-struck as you step into the world's largest archaeological museum, an architectural marvel built to house Egypt's most precious treasures.

Grand Egyptian Museum: A Journey Through Millennia: Spend a captivating several hours immersing yourself in the unparalleled collections of the Grand Egyptian Museum. This state-of-the-art facility offers a revolutionary display of Egyptian artifacts. You'll witness the legendary Tutankhamun treasures in their entirety for the first time, including his golden mask and sarcophagi, displayed with unprecedented grandeur. Beyond King Tut, explore vast halls showcasing an incredible array of ancient Egyptian artistry, including royal mummies (now located at NMEC, but GEM has other stunning mummy collections), intricate papyri, mummified animals, ancient textiles, and countless other artifacts that illuminate millennia of civilization. Delve into specific periods like the intriguing Amarna period, the rich Greco-Roman period, and admire detailed wooden maquettes that offer glimpses into daily life and ancient crafts. This museum provides a profound and unforgettable journey through Egypt's illustrious past.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant: After your profound museum experience, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Egyptian cuisine and reflecting on the treasures you've just witnessed.

Evening in Cairo: Following lunch, you will be transferred to your Cairo hotel for check-in and an evening at leisure, perhaps revisiting favorite spots or enjoying a relaxing evening in the vibrant city.

Meals Included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch

Morning Fuel & Journey to Ancient Capitals: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at your hotel, preparing for a full-day exploration into the very beginnings of pyramid construction and ancient Egyptian monumental architecture. Your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle will transport you to the historic sites of Saqqara and Dahshur.

Saqqara (Sakkara)—The Vast Necropolis: Your first stop is Saqqara, the immense ancient burial ground of Memphis, Egypt's oldest capital. This vast necropolis was actively used for millennia, from the Archaic Period through to the Late Period and even the Christian era, boasting over 14 Pharaonic pyramids and countless tombs. You'll explore some of its most famous attractions, including the exquisitely decorated Tomb of Mereruka and the Tomb of Kagemni, offering intimate glimpses into the daily lives and beliefs of ancient nobles.

Unas Pyramid: The Birth of Pyramid Texts: Discover the small yet profoundly significant Unas Pyramid, dating back to the 5th Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. Standing at around 43 meters, this pyramid is renowned for being the first to feature the Pyramid Texts carved into its burial chamber walls. These magical incantations, designed to aid the pharaoh's journey into the afterlife, later evolved into the Coffin Texts and the Book of the Dead. Explore its long causeway and the ruins of its mortuary temple, situated between the complexes of Sekhemkhet and Djoser.

Djoser Step Pyramid Complex: The World's First Stone Structure: Witness a true architectural revolution at the Djoser Step Pyramid Complex, dating back to the 3rd Dynasty. This groundbreaking monument is celebrated as the world's first stone structure and the precursor to all later pyramids. Marvel at the genius of Imhotep, Djoser's vizier, who designed this revolutionary complex with its six mastabas (layers) rising towards the heavens, alongside a fascinating network of underground tunnels. Explore significant elements within the complex, such as the mysterious Southern Tomb, the ceremonial House of the South and House of the North, the intriguing Serdab chamber, and the Heb Sed Festival court, where the king's jubilee rituals were performed.

Princess Idut's Tomb: A Window into Daily Life: Step into the captivating Tomb of Princess Idut (though not originally built for her, it became her final resting place). This tomb, discovered in 1920, is a treasure trove of vibrant scenes from everyday life. Admire detailed depictions of fishing with boats, nets, and spears; hippos battling; butchers slaughtering an ox; and farmers guiding cattle across the river. A particularly poignant scene shows a female hippo giving birth, with a crocodile lurking nearby, jaws open, waiting for the newborn – a stark depiction of nature's raw beauty. Concluding your visit, observe the beautiful False Door and offering table, vital elements of ancient Egyptian burial practices.

Lunch Amidst the Palms: After a morning immersed in Saqqara's history, enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, conveniently located by the Saqqara exit and nestled peacefully among swaying palm trees, offering a tranquil break.

Dahshur: Unraveling Pyramid Evolution: Continue your journey to Dahshur, where you'll explore the second and third oldest pyramids in Egypt, both dating back to the 4th Dynasty and built by King Sneferu, father of Khufu.

Bent Pyramid: Discover why the unique Bent Pyramid earned its distinctive name – a fascinating tale of ancient engineering challenges and adjustments during its construction.

Red Pyramid: Marvel at the majestic Red Pyramid, considered Egypt's first true smooth-sided pyramid. You'll have the incredible opportunity to enter both pyramids (if accessible) and explore their inner chambers, providing an intimate connection with these ancient wonders.

Return to Cairo: After a day of profound historical discovery, you will be comfortably transferred back to your hotel in Cairo for a relaxing evening.

Meals Included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch

Leisurely Morning & Final Breakfast: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your Cairo hotel, savoring your last moments in the bustling capital of Egypt. Take this free time to reflect on your incredible 11-day journey, perhaps doing some last-minute souvenir shopping or simply unwinding before your departure.

Seamless Departure: At the appropriate time, a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle will be ready to transfer you directly from your hotel to Cairo International Airport (CAI) for your final departure. Our Golavita representative will be available to assist with check-in procedures, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free end to your unforgettable Egyptian adventure.

Meals Included:

• Breakfast