We begin with an extensive exploration of Cairo, introducing you to Pharonic Egypt, with the pyramids, Sphinx and Egyptian Museum, as well as its fascinating Arab-influenced medieval side. We visit the excellent Islamic Art Museum, Khan el Khalili bazaar, Al Azhar Mosque and enjoy a walk through the atmospheric streets of Islamic Cairo. In Aswan, we soak up the town’s laid-back charm, visit the impressive Temple of Isis on Philae Island, explore the excellent souk (market) and the following day, there’s time for a morning trip to Abu Simbel before we board our Nile cruise boat, bound for Luxor. After visiting the temples of Komombo and Edfu along the Nile, we have time to see all the highlights of Luxor. We spend a morning in and around the Valley of the Kings, and discover Karnak Temple – one of Egypt’s best. Returning to Cairo, we unveil yet another facet of Cairene culture, Coptic Cairo, and also visit the quirky Gayer-Anderson Museum and magnificent Ibn Tulun Mosque. This tour is a must for those yearning to see Egypt…in depth.
Itinerary
| Day 1 |
(Mon) Arrive Cairo and transfer to hotel. |
| Day 2 |
Visit Egyptian Museum, pyramids and Sphinx. |
| Day 3 |
Explore the Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, Al Azhar Mosque and the Museum of Islamic Art. Overnight train to Aswan. |
| Day 4 |
Visit the Temple of Isis on Philae Island. Free time to explore the souk. |
| Day 5 |
Optional visit to Abu Simbel. Board Nile cruise boat. |
| Days 6-7 |
Sail to Luxor via the temples of Komombo and Edfu. Visit Karnak Temple. |
| Day 8 |
Visit Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut and Colossi of Memnon. Overnight train to Cairo. |
| Day 9 |
Explore Coptic Cairo, the Gayer-Anderson Museum and Ibn Tulun mosque. |
| Day 10 |
Tour ends in Cairo after breakfast (Wed). |