Philae 1

Begin your epic day with a journey to the Giza Plateau, home to the legendary Great Pyramids of Giza – Cheops, Khafre, and Menkaure – built during the Fourth Dynasty (around 2690 BC). As the only surviving wonder of the Ancient World, these monumental structures offer an awe-inspiring glimpse into Egypt’s timeless legacy. Upgrade your experience by entering the interior of one of these iconic pyramids (extra ticket) and marvel at the massive stones that have fascinated explorers for centuries. Don’t miss the majestic Great Sphinx, perfectly framed by the pyramids, a sight that has captured imaginations for millennia.

After enjoying a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Sakkara, located just 27 km southwest of Cairo. Discover the Step Pyramid of King Zoser, the first stone structure in history designed by the brilliant architect Imhotep. This architectural marvel marks a key stage in the evolution of pyramids, from the simple mastaba to the iconic pyramidal form.

Next, visit Ancient Memphis, the first capital of unified Egypt. Admire the awe-inspiring colossal statue of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx, and explore the Alabaster Statue of Queen Hatshepsut. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Egypt’s earliest civilization before returning to your hotel in Cairo.

Overnight stay in Cairo.

Start your day with a journey into Egypt’s rich history at the Egyptian Museum, home to over 120,000 fascinating artifacts spanning 5,000 years of art. Marvel at the treasures of King Tutankhamun, including gold and jewelry that lay hidden in his tomb for over 3,500 years before its discovery in the 1920s. This collection is widely regarded as the largest and most precious assembly of Egyptian art in the world.

After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, explore Coptic Cairo, the historic heart of Egypt’s Christian heritage. Nestled within the ancient Roman fortress of Babylon, this area features iconic landmarks such as the Hanging Church (El Muallaqa) and St. Sergius Church, where the Holy Family is said to have sought refuge during their journey to Egypt. Discover the Ben Ezra Synagogue, home to a 5th-century BC Torah written on gazelle skin, highlighting Cairo’s rich religious diversity.

Conclude your day by wandering through the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of Cairo’s most famous markets. Immerse yourself in the sights, scents, and colors of this historic souk, a treasure trove of traditional crafts, spices, and souvenirs. After this unforgettable experience, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Cairo.

Overnight stay in Cairo.

After breakfast at your Cairo hotel, your First Class Travel manager will escort you to the airport for a short flight to Luxor (approximately 1 hour). Upon arrival, your expert Egyptologist guide will be ready to take you on an unforgettable journey through the wonders of ancient Thebes, the world’s largest open-air museum.

Begin your exploration with the grand Karnak Temple Complex – bold, massive, and awe-inspiring. This monumental site is one of ancient Egypt’s most ambitious building projects, where every pharaoh left their mark. Marvel at the towering obelisks, intricately carved walls, and the serene sacred lake, as you step into the heart of the kingdom’s most revered religious sanctuary.

Next, visit the Luxor Temple, built by Amenhotep III (1390–1352 BC) and completed by Tutankhamun and Horemheb, with later additions by Ramses II (1279–1213 BC). Toward the rear, admire the granite shrine dedicated to Alexander the Great (332–305 BC). The temple was primarily dedicated to Amun, the main deity of the empire during this time.

After your guided tour, board your Nile cruise for check-in, enjoy a delicious lunch, and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing as you soak in the beauty of the Nile. Dinner is served on board.

Overnight on your Nile cruise.

After breakfast on board, set out for an extraordinary journey to the West Bank of Luxor. Begin with the legendary Valley of the Kings, where since Howard Carter’s discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb, travelers have been captivated by the treasures of the boy king. Step inside the vividly painted tombs of Thebes’ pharaohs and immerse yourself in the burial rituals and ancient traditions of Egypt. You will have the opportunity to explore three tombs; in total, over 64 tombs have been discovered here, with more waiting to be unveiled.

Next, visit the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the remarkable female pharaoh who ruled Egypt for over 16 years. Admire her unique architectural legacy and enjoy a brief visit to an Alabaster workshop, where the artisans, descendants of ancient craftsmen, create exquisite pieces – perfect for souvenirs.

Continue to the Colossi of Memnon, the iconic twin statues carved from yellowish-brown sandstone. Representing Amenophis III seated on a cube-shaped throne, these monumental figures once guarded the entrance to his temple. During Roman times, they were believed to depict Memnon, son of Eos and Tithonus. Capture unforgettable photos before returning to your Nile cruise for lunch.

In the afternoon, begin sailing towards Edfu, and relax on the sundeck, taking in the beauty of the Nile. Dinner will be served on board.

Overnight on your Nile cruise.

As your Nile cruise arrives in Edfu, a horse-drawn carriage will be ready to take you to the magnificent Temple of Horus, also known as Edfu Temple. Built in the 2nd century BC during the Ptolemaic Dynasty, this temple is one of Egypt’s best-preserved and most impressive monuments. Marvel at the towering sandstone walls adorned with giant hieroglyphics and intricate friezes, echoing the grandeur of earlier pharaohs. Wander through the colossal gateways and vast chambers to truly experience the overwhelming power of Egypt’s rulers.

After your visit, return to the Nile cruise and continue sailing towards Kom Ombo. Enjoy lunch and afternoon tea on the sundeck, taking in the stunning views along the Nile.

Upon approaching Kom Ombo, the soaring columns of its Great Temple rise dramatically above the riverbank – an iconic Egyptian vista. Though the town today may be a peaceful agricultural area, the temple, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris, highlights the region’s historical significance along the Nile. Stroll through its elegant colonnades, gaze at the pharaonic reliefs, and immerse yourself in centuries of history. Don’t forget to explore the Crocodile Mummy Museum for a fascinating glimpse into the sacred animals of ancient Egypt.

Return to the cruise for dinner on board, enjoying the tranquil Nile scenery.

Overnight on your Nile cruise.

After breakfast on board your Nile cruise, prepare for an unforgettable experience as you journey by private vehicle (approximately 3 hours) to the legendary Abu Simbel temples. These monumental temples are among the most breathtaking heritage sites in the world and Egypt’s second most visited tourist attraction after the Pyramids of Giza.

In the 1960s, the temples faced submersion due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam, prompting a historic UNESCO-backed relocation. The temples were carefully dismantled and rebuilt 60 meters above their original location, preserving their grandeur for future generations.

The larger temple is dedicated to Ramses II, and the smaller to his beloved wife Queen Nefertari, both constructed in the 13th century BC. The colossal façade of Ramses II features four seated statues, each 20 meters high, guarding the entrance to a 56-meter-long rock-cut hall that leads to a series of intricately decorated chambers. Remarkably, twice a year, the rising sun illuminates the statues of the gods at the end of the temple.

After exploring Abu Simbel, return to Aswan for lunch on board the cruise, then visit the Philae Temple, dedicated to the mother goddess Isis. Relocated by UNESCO to save it from the High Dam, the temple is set in a picturesque island landscape, with multiple shrines and sanctuaries that showcase the sacred heritage of ancient Egypt.

Return to your cruise for dinner on board and overnight on the Nile, reflecting on a day filled with awe-inspiring history.

Hotels in Cairo 

Hilton Pyramids Golf : 5 Stars

OR

Steingenberger Hotel El-Tahrir : 5 stars

Nile Cruise......

Blue shadow Nile Cruise : 5 Stars

OR

MS/ Nile Style Cruise  : 5 stars