When to go
September to May
Price
From £2,795 pp
Flight time
5hrs

Introduction

Egypt is a stunning destination full of mystique and charm as it boasts famous historical sites, charming villages and cities, fine sands, and spectacular coral reefs.

The majestic Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx are located outside of the busy Egyptian capital of Cairo, whilst the Egyptian Museum is home to a vast collection of artefacts that will transport you back to an ancient time.
The Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, and Colossi of Memnon are close, while the ruins of the Karnak and Luxor temples are located in Luxor, which is recognised as the “World’s Greatest Open Air Museum.” The Philae Temple, which was relocated during the construction of the Aswan High Dam, is an extraordinary marvel, while traditional feluccas cruise along the majestic Nile revealing more impressive historic wonders. There is so much adventure and discovery to uncover in Egypt, whether you are exploring it on foot or on its river with an impressive River Nile excursion or cruise.

Highlights

EXPLORE ABU SIMBEL BY AIR (Half day - Abu Simbel)

For a unique experience of Abu Simbel, located on the west bank of Lake Nasser, fly above the Nile. With your professional Egyptologist, tour these historic sites after a 40-minute flight from Aswan.

DISCOVER EGYPT’S OUTDOOR MUSEUM (Full day - Cairo)

With the help of your Egyptologist, visit Cairo’s most breath-taking attractions. Visit the mysterious Sphinx and Great Pyramid of Giza, get a close-up look at Tutankhamun’s death mask, among other great artefacts.

EXPLORE THE NILE BY FELUCCA (Half Day - The Nile)

A classic wooden felucca (sailboat) will take you from Aswan to Elephantine island’s fascinating archaeological sites. On the way back, stop at Crocodile and Banana Island.

THE TOMB OF WAHTYE (30 minutes - Sakkara)

Enjoy unique access to the Tomb of Wahtye while exploring the renowned Sakkara necropolis. Discover this ancient burial chamber, which was just found in 2018, and its carvings and statues.

EXCLUSIVE DINNER AT THE PYRAMIDS (2-3 hours - Cairo)

Spend a spectacular evening dining at the Pyramids of Giza. In a lavish desert tent that has been arranged just for you, take pleasure in a delicious feast followed by thrilling entertainment.

HISTORIC CAIRO TOUR (Half day – Cairo)

To explore some of the most significant historical landmarks in Egypt, venture deep into Cairo’s oldest region. Tour the Hanging Church, the Babylon Fortress, and the Coptic Museum.

Recommended Hotels

Sanctuary Sun Boat Iv

Recognised as one of the best boats on the River Nile, all staterooms include wonderful river views, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. You can look forward to getting some glorious sunshine on the deck, swim in the heated pool, and discover all there is to know about Egypt from the Egyptologists on board. Enjoy first-rate cuisine and a luxurious floating experience.

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract

The hotel, which exudes old-world beauty and elegance and served as the inspiration for Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile, has welcomed a number of notable visitors since it first opened its doors in 1899. Dine at its beautiful restaurant and unwind in the spa’s sauna and hammam.

Four Seasons First Residence

The luxurious and spacious rooms and suites at Four Seasons First Residence offer stunning views of the pyramids and are conveniently located on the west bank of the Nile. Italian, Lebanese, and Thai cuisine is on the menu in its restaurants. The facilities include an outdoor pool, and a spa which offers a variety of traditional Egyptian massages.

Hotel Sofitel Legend Old Cataract

A renowned name in hospitality since 1889, this boutique hotel emerges from the desert on a pink granite rock overlooking the Nile. After watching a felucca sail down the river while sipping Hibiscus tea at La Terrasse, retreat to the So Spa and look forward to staying in a room in the historic Palace or the more modern Nile wing.

Marriott Mena House

Situated just 700m from the Pyramids of Giza, the iconic Marriot Mena House offers pyramid views and stunning gardens, and has entertained many kings, emperors as well as heads of government. The décor of the rooms on the Palace Wing ooze elegance, charm and a Belle Epoque style, whilst the Mena Garden Wing offers a contemporary and modern feel to its accommodation.

Sofitel Winter Palace

Glamourous and full of charm, the Winter Palace has been a staple resort for anyone visiting Luxor. Built in 1886, the hotel is in a prime position on the banks of the Nile, right next to the iconic Luxor Temple. You can find comfort and relaxation by the pool amidst its lush gardens, enjoy high tea on the Nile Terrace, and look forward to romantic candlelit meals at its 1886 Restaurant.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival In Cairo, Egypt

Upon your arrival in Cairo you will head over to your riverside hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Cairo Discovery

Visit the top attractions in Cairo with a private Egyptologist. Tour the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, bargain for spices at the popular Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, and see the pyramids’ renowned light show.

Day 3: Cairo Continued

Travel south to Sakkara to visit the Step Pyramid of Djoser, then head north to the Giza Plateau to view the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza.

Day 4: Aswan

Take a flight to Aswan and embark on the luxurious Sanctuary Sun Boat IV, which will serve as your base while cruising the Nile. Sail on a felucca around Elephantine Island and explore Aswan.

Day 5: Aswan - Kom Ombo

Explore Agilkia Island’s Philae Temple. As you sail to the Temple of Kom Ombo in Edfu, you’ll learn how to prepare delectable Egyptian flavours back on the boat.

Day 6: Kom Ombo - Luxor

Enjoy a guided tour of the Temple of Khnum in Esna and see the Temple of Horus. Enjoy afternoon tea as you sail to Luxor.

Day 7: Luxor

Discover the river Nile’s banks for most of the day. You will visit the Temple of Luxor and the Temple of Karnak on the East Bank with an Egyptologist, before exploring the Valley of the Kings and the Colossi of Memnon, which are on the West Bank.

Day 8: Depart Luxor

Your Egyptian discovery will end when you dock from the Sanctuary Sun Boat IV and take the transfer to Luxor airport in preparation for your return flight to the UK.