In Cairo our guide explains the history and mystery of ancient Egypt as we explore the Egyptian Museum, pyramids and Sphinx. In Luxor we are treated to further outstanding sights, visiting Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut. A relaxing three-day riverboat cruise brings us to Aswan, home of the friendly Nubian people. There’s time for an optional visit to Abu Simbel before we return to Cairo to visit a delightful 16th century Arabesque villa, Cairo’s oldest mosque, and the bustling Khan el Khalili bazaar.
Our last stop is cosmopolitan Alexandria, on the Mediterranean coast. We visit the excellent museum, enjoy an excursion to the battlefields at El Alamein, and have time to explore downtown ‘Alex’ before returning to Cairo.
Itinerary
| Day 1 |
(Sat) Arrive Cairo and transfer to hotel. |
| Day 2 |
Visit Egyptian Museum, pyramids and Sphinx. Sleeper train to Luxor. |
| Days 3-4 |
Horse-drawn carriages to Karnak Temple. Board Nile cruise boat. Visit Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut and Colossi of Memnon. |
| Days 5-6 |
Sail to Aswan. Visit Edfu and Komombo temples. |
| Day 7 |
Free day in Aswan. Optional visit to Abu Simbel. Sleeper train to Cairo. |
| Day 8 |
Arrive Cairo. Medieval quarter, including Gayer-Anderson Museum, Ibn Tulun Mosque and Khan al-Khalili bazaar. |
| Day 9 |
Drive to Alexandria. Visit museum and catacombs. |
| Day 10 |
Excursion to battlefields and museum at El Alamein. |
| Day 11 |
Return to Cairo. |
| Day 12 |
Trip ends in Cairo this morning (Wed). |